Didache: All your activities

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But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it. 2 Timothy 3:14

“Do not reprimand one another in anger, but in peace, as you have learned from the gospel. Let no one speak with a person who has committed a sin against his neighbor, nor let him hear anything from you, until he repents. But say your prayers, give to charity, and engage in all your activities as you have learned in the gospel of our Lord.”

Didache 15.3-4 in The Apostolic Fathers, ed. and trans. by Bart D. Ehrman (LCL 24 & 25; Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2003).

The Didache represented the early church discipleship manual. In this excerpt we see how followers of Jesus were to treat one another in a context of increasing hostility. Have we continued in what we have learned?

This text came into view as part of my research for a paper I am delivering today, entitled, “Advice from the Apostolic Fathers on Christian Social Engagement in a Hostile World.”

Imagine if every Christian in modern times followed these instructions in all activities. We might be known for unity rather than division and for love rather than fighting. Lord help us continue in what we have learned.

Reply here to let me know if you’d like a copy of my paper and slide deck.