Topical Encyclopedia Introduction The Didache, also known as "The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles," is an early Christian treatise that provides insight into the beliefs, practices, and organizational structure of the early Church. It is considered one of the earliest non-canonical Christian writings, dating from the late first or early second century. The Didache offers a glimpse into the life of early Christian communities and their efforts to maintain doctrinal purity and communal harmony. Content Overview The Didache is divided into several sections, each addressing different aspects of Christian life and practice. It begins with ethical teachings, often referred to as "The Two Ways," which contrast the way of life with the way of death. This section emphasizes moral conduct, love for God and neighbor, and the rejection of sinful behaviors. The ethical teachings echo the moral imperatives found in the New Testament, such as in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). The document then transitions into instructions on liturgical practices, including baptism, fasting, prayer, and the Eucharist. Baptism is to be performed in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, preferably in running water, reflecting the Trinitarian formula found in Matthew 28:19: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The Didache also provides guidelines for fasting, recommending Wednesdays and Fridays as days of abstinence, distinguishing Christian practice from Jewish customs. The Lord's Prayer is to be recited three times a day, aligning with the instruction in Matthew 6:9-13. The Eucharistic prayers in the Didache highlight the communal and thanksgiving aspects of the meal, emphasizing unity and the anticipation of the coming Kingdom. The text underscores the importance of partaking in the Eucharist with a clear conscience, resonating with Paul's admonition in 1 Corinthians 11:28: "Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup." Church Order and Discipline The Didache addresses the roles of apostles, prophets, and teachers within the community, providing criteria for discerning true from false prophets. It advises that itinerant apostles and prophets should not overstay their welcome, reflecting the early Church's concern for maintaining order and authenticity in ministry. The text also outlines the selection and duties of bishops and deacons, emphasizing their role in maintaining the community's spiritual and administrative well-being. This mirrors the qualifications for church leaders found in 1 Timothy 3:1-13 and Titus 1:5-9. Eschatological Teaching The Didache concludes with an eschatological section, warning believers to remain vigilant and prepared for the Lord's return. It echoes the New Testament's emphasis on watchfulness and readiness, as seen in passages like Matthew 24:42: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come." Significance The Didache holds significant historical and theological value, offering a window into the life and thought of early Christians. It reflects the continuity and development of apostolic teaching and provides a framework for understanding how early believers sought to live out their faith in a rapidly changing world. While not considered Scripture, the Didache remains a valuable resource for understanding the roots of Christian tradition and practice. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia DIDACHEdid'-a-ke. Greek 1322. didache -- doctrine, teaching ... 1321, 1322. didache. 1323 . ... see GREEK didasko. (didachais) -- 1 Occurrence. (didache) -- 16 Occurrences. (didachen) -- 7 Occurrences. (didaches) -- 6 Occurrences ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1322.htm - 7k Library Didache Ton Dodeka Apostolon The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, Commonly Called the Didache Manuscripts and Books Excursus on the Word Prospherein . Introduction Liturgical Hymns The Several Parts of Worship. The Setting The Literature Catechetical Instruction. Thesaurus DidacheDidache. Did, Didache. Diddest . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia DIDACHE. did'-a-ke. See LITERATURE, SUB-APOSTOLIC. Did, Didache. Diddest . ... /d/didache.htm - 6k Trine Triune Immersion Subapostolic Sub-apostolic Ministry (44 Occurrences) Gifts (144 Occurrences) Apostle (25 Occurrences) Spiritual (42 Occurrences) Resources What is the Didache? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Apostolic Fathers? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Church History (All) | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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