First Christian Voices: Practices of the Apostolic Fathers

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First Christian Voices

and let their good deeds be a testimony to their community. We will read more about this in chapter eight. One letter stands out among the Apostolic Fathers as an early example of a defense of the faith, also known as an apologetic: the Letter to Diognetus. We know very little about its author or its recipient. Nevertheless, it is a clear example of an apologetic of the same nature and tone as we read from the Apostle Peter: Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. (1 Pet 3:13–16) So, we begin this chapter with the Letter to Diognetus. You will certainly notice the posture of the apologist. You will also notice that the defense of the faith was as much about the verbal proclamation of Jesus as it was the daily living out a life as one of His followers. Posture T o D iognetus 1: Since I see that you, most excellent Diognetus, are especially desirous to learn the manner of worshiping God prevalent among the Christians, and that you are inquiring very carefully and earnestly concerning them—about the God they trust in and what form of religion they observe so as to look down upon the world