First Christian Voices: Practices of the Apostolic Fathers

Chapter 6: The Church

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transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit” (Ps 32:1). This blessedness comes on those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our Lord. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen. The Way of Life D idache 1–3: The way of life is this: First, you will love God who made you. Second, love your neighbor as yourself and do not do to another what you would not want done to you. And of these sayings the teaching is this: Bless those who curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for those who persecute you. For what reward is there for loving those who love you? Do not the Gentiles do the same ( Matt 5:44–46 )? But love those who hate you, and you will not have an enemy. Refrain from fleshly and worldly lusts. If someone strikes your right cheek, turn to him the other also and you will be complete ( Matt 5:39 ). If someone forces you for one mile, go with him two ( Matt 5:41 ). If someone takes your robe, give him also your coat ( Matt 5:40 ). If someone takes from you what is yours, do not ask for it back, for indeed you are unable. Give to everyone who asks you, and do not ask for it back, for the Father wills that all should be given our own spiritual gift. Blessed is he who gives according to the commandment, for he is innocent. Woe to him who receives. For if one receives who has need, he is innocent. However, he who receives who does not have a need will pay the penalty for why he received and for what. And coming into prison, he will be examined concerning the things which he has done, and he will not escape from there