[.ca] The Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts And English Translations (ISBN 080103468X)

The often overlooked founders of the early church:
This book contains the works of the early church fathers who helped build the foundations of what would later become the worldâ¬s largest religion. The development of the church between the apostles and latter church fathers such as Augustine or Gregory of Nazianzus is often overlooked by those studying the early church. This collection focuses mainly upon writers that occurred within the first or second century after the apostles. The epistles and books range from the solid and orthodox works of Clement to the obscure and mystical Shepherd of Hermas. Many of these works were originally included in the canon of Scripture, and it is interesting when first exposed to them to try to discern why they didnâ¬t make the cut later in church history. Another interesting question that arises from these readings is whether or not the writers were inspired, and also how much of this teaching can we take as true and authoritative. A prevalent theme in some of the works is apostolic succession, a theory that the Catholic church later latched onto in order to justify many of its questionable actions. Other theological disputes are discussed such as the allegorical interpretation of the Scriptures or the meanings of visions of the final judgement. Overall the book presents several primary sources of early theological doctrines from one of the most important (but often overlooked) eras in the history of the church.

A Rare Insight into Early Church Thought:
This book is essential for gaining a well-rounded grasp of the history of the church of Christ. The manuscripts included in this text are both fascinating and thought provoking, especially in light of the fact that many of them were nearly included in the official cannon of scripture. Anyone desiring to be acquainted with the thought of the early Church ought to read this book. It is truly fascinating.