First Christian Voices: Practices of the Apostolic Fathers

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First Christian Voices

Discussion Questions

As you consider your own cultural context, what can you identify as some of the leading issues people have against Christianity? How might the Apostolic Fathers provide an example for addressing those issues?

We often think of an apologetic as intellectual arguments for the defense of Christianity. The Letter to Diognetus especially focuses on such

arguments in relationship to Christianity’s distinction from other religions. What are ways in which you see distinctions between Christianity and the religions or predominate beliefs in your community?

The Letter of Barnabas makes the remarkable statement, “Every word which proceeds out of your mouth in faith and love will tend to bring

conversion and hope to many.” Reflect on that statement for a moment. What is the heart posture one should take in sharing the gospel with others?

The Apostolic Fathers focused on the manner in which the Christian lived her life. They understood that the life of a Christian was

as much a witness to the gospel as was the actual proclamation. How do the Apostolic Fathers encourage us to live our lives in our communities?