The Didache is one of the earliest Christian writings, dated to the first or second century—earlier than most of the writings that make up the New Testament. It provides practical instructions how to function as a Christian community and offers unique insights into the way early Christians lived and worshiped. Though not considered canonical, it did have some level of authority in the early church and is part of what's known as the Apostolic Fathers collection.
But often, people interested in reading the Didache aren't sure how to approach the text. Thomas O'Loughlin's The Didache: A Window on the Earliest Christians is an accessible introduction to the Didadche that resolves this issue and will help you discover unique insights into these first Christian communities.
In the book, Loughlin tells the intriguing story of the Didache from when it was discovered in the late nineteenth century to today. He then commentates on the entire text, highlighting areas of particular interest to Christians today, and ends with a fresh translation of the text itself. It's straightforward and easy to understand for anyone wishing to study the Didache and learn how today's church differs from the first-century assembly.
