Christianity 101: What is The Didache?
The word Didache originates from the Greek term for doctrine, didactic, and teaching. This intriguing and somewhat controversial instruction book has sparked much debate regarding its date of writing. Currently, it is believed that the Didache, a non-canonical text, was penned between A.D. 70 and A.D. 100, and is claimed to be the work of the twelve Apostles. The Greek Apostolic Constitutions frequently reference the Didache, with additional Scriptures included. The Didache appears to have served as a church manual for early Christians, particularly in rural areas reliant on itinerant ministers. Over time, it was revised into various forms across different locations.
Several writings and lists from
the early fourth century mention a text known as the "Teaching" or
"Teachings" of the Apostles. However, it is not definitively proven
that this refers to the Didache. The current version of the ancient Didache
remains a valuable guide for understanding the conduct code of the early
Christian community.
The Didache addresses the paths
to life and death. According to the Didache, the path of life involves loving
only one God, loving your neighbor as yourself, and adhering to a principle
akin to the Golden Rule. It emphasizes seeing God as all-powerful, seeking Him
day and night, not doubting His Word, keeping God's commandments, confessing
sins, and approaching prayer with a clear conscience. This is regarded as the
path of life.
The Didache tells us that the road to death is a treacherous
path, marked by evil and taken by those who persecute the good, unaware of the
reward of righteousness. The Didache aligns this path with the warnings found
in Revelation 22:15. It reminds us of the dangers posed by false teachers and
emphasizes the importance of adhering to the true gospel. The Didache sternly
warns that tempting and disputing any prophet speaking in the Spirit is
unforgivable. Moreover, any prophet who is an approved minister but fails to
teach others will face God's judgment.
The Didache foretells that the
creation of man will culminate in a fiery trial of proof, leading to the
perishing of many. It prophesies the sign of Jesus Christ's appearance,
followed by the sound of the Trumpet and the resurrection of the dead. "Then
shall the world behold the Lord coming on the clouds of Heaven."
Please note: sources for this article include Biblical Archaeology Society and BibleRef.Com.
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Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University. He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society. He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom. He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels. His baseball career spanned almost 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and experience in MLB. He has coached players at various levels from ages 8 through 18.
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