Description
Book SynopsisIn 1873, a copy of the long lost Didache was discovered in a library in Constantinople. Since its publication a decade later, this little book has attracted a large amount of scholarly attention due to the light its sheds on the beliefs and practices of the early Christians. Dr. William Varner has written this volume to familiarize readers with these past and present scholarly discussions. Dr. Varner offers his own analytical translation of the Didache and sets forth some fresh ideas about the book''s original purpose and its relationship to the New Testament. He also suggests how the message of this first Christian handbook can inform the church today. This is an accessible introduction, not only to an ancient Christian text, but also to how the earliest Christians responded to the challenge of their new lives.
Trade ReviewVarner's book is a delightful introduction to what is most likely the earliest known extrabiblical Christian writing. -- Roy B. Zuck * Bibliotheca Sacra, January–March 2008 *
Varner has written in such a away that serious laymen, pastors, and scholars alike will profit from engaging this work, which is at once provocative, deep, and readable....this reviewer highly recommends this fresh study of such a critically important historical document. This is a must read for every pastor. * The Master's Seminary Journal *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Foreword Part 2 Preface Chapter 3 Introduction to the Didache Chapter 4 The Rediscovery of the Didache Chapter 5 The Text of the Didache Chapter 6 A Translation of the Didache Chapter 7 The Scriptures of the Didache Chapter 8 The Two Ways of the Didache Chapter 9 The Sacraments of the Didache Chapter 10 The Ministers of the Didache Chapter 11 The Theology of the Didache Chapter 12 The Lessons of the Didache Part 13 Appendices Part 14 Endnotes Part 15 Bibliography Part 16 Index Part 17 About the Author
