The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles
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Edited, with Notes, by James Donaldson, D.D.
Text edited by Rev. Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson and
first published by T&T Clark in Edinburgh in 1867. Additional
introductionary material and notes provided for the American
edition by A. Cleveland Coxe, 1886.
The Lord's Teaching Through the Twelve Apostles to the Nations. [2369]
Chapter I.--The Two Ways; The First Commandment
1. There are two ways, [2370] one of life and one of death; [2371] but
a great difference between the two ways. 2. The way of life, then, is
this: First, thou shalt love God [2372] who made thee; second, thy
neighbour as thyself; [2373] and all things whatsoever thou wouldst
should not occur to thee, thou also to another do not do. [2374] 3.
And of these sayings [2375] the teaching is this: Bless them that
curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for them that persecute
you. [2376] For what thank is there, if ye love them that love you? Do
not also the Gentiles do the same? [2377] But do ye love them that
hate you; and ye shall not have an enemy. [2378] 4. Abstain thou from
fleshly and worldly lusts. [2379] If one give thee a blow upon thy
right cheek, turn to him the other also; [2380] and thou shalt be
perfect. If one impress thee for one mile, go with him two. [2381] If
one take away thy cloak, give him also thy coat. [2382] If one take
from thee thine own, ask it not back, [2383] for indeed thou art not
able. 5. Give to every one that asketh thee, and ask it not back;
[2384] for the Father willeth that to all should be given of our own
blessings (free gifts). [2385] Happy is he that giveth according to
the commandment; for he is guiltless. Woe to him that receiveth; for
if one having need receiveth, he is guiltless; but he that receiveth
not having need, shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what,
and, coming into straits (confinement), [2386] he shall be examined
concerning the things which he hath done, and he shall not escape
thence until he pay back the last farthing. [2387] 6. But also now
concerning this, it hath been said, Let thine alms sweat [2388] in thy
hands, until thou know to whom thou shouldst give.
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Footnotes
[2370] This phrase connects the book with the Duæ Viæ; see
Introductory Notice. Barnabas has "light" and "darkness" for "life"
and "death."
[2371] Deut. xxx. 15, 19; Jer. xxi. 8; Matt. vii. 13, 14
[2372] Comp. Deut. vi. 5, which is fully cited in Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 2, though the verb here is more exactly cited from
LXX.
[2373] Lev. xix. 18; Matt. xxii. 37, 39. Comp. Mark xii. 30, 31
[2374] Comp. Tobit iv. 15; and Matt. vii. 12; Luke vi. 31
[2375] These Old-Testament commands are thus taught by the Lord.
[2376] Matt. v. 44. But the last clause is added, and is of unknown
origin; not found in Apostolic Constitutions
[2377] Matt. v. 46, 47; Luke vi. 32. The two passages are combined.
[2378] So Apostolic Constitutions. Comp. 1 Pet. iii. 13
[2379] 1 Pet. ii. 11. The Codex has somatikon, "bodily;" but editors
correct to kosmikon
[2380] Matt. v. 39; Luke vi. 29.
[2381] Matt. v. 41
[2382] Matt. v. 40; Luke vi. 29
[2383] Luke vi. 30. The last clause is a peculiar addition: "art not
able," since thou art a Christian; otherwise it is a commonplace
observation.
[2384] Luke vi. 30. The rest of the sentence is explained by the
parallel passage in Apostolic Constitutions, which cites Matt. v. 45.
[2385] Bryennios finds a parallel (or citation) in Hermas, Commandment
Second, [322]p. 20, vol. i. Ante-Nicene Fathers. The remainder of this
chapter has no parallel in Apostolic Constitutions.
[2386] Gr. en sunoche. Probably = imprisonment; see next clause.
[2387] Matt. v. 26.
[2388] Codex: idrotato, which in this connection is unintelligible.
Bryennios corrects into idrosato, rendered as above. There are various
other conjectural emendations. The verse probably forbids
indiscriminate charity, pointing to an early abuse of Christian
liberality.
Chapter II. [2389] --The Second Commandment: Gross Sin Forbidden
1. And the second commandment of the Teaching; 2. Thou shalt not
commit murder, thou shalt not commit adultery, [2390] thou shalt not
commit pæderasty, [2391] thou shalt not commit fornication, thou shalt
not steal, [2392] thou shalt not practice magic, thou shalt not
practice witchcraft, thou shalt not murder a child by abortion nor
kill that which is begotten. [2393] Thou shalt not covet the things of
thy neighbour, [2394] 3. thou shalt not forswear thyself, [2395] thou
shalt not bear false witness, [2396] thou shalt not speak evil, thou
shalt bear no grudge. [2397] 4. Thou shalt not be double-minded nor
double-tongued; for to be double-tongued is a snare of death. [2398]
5. Thy speech shall not be false, nor empty, but fulfilled by deed.
[2399] 6. Thou shalt not be covetous, nor rapacious, nor a hypocrite,
nor evil disposed, nor haughty. Thou shalt not take evil counsel
against thy neighbour. [2400] 7. Thou shalt not hate any man; but some
thou shalt reprove, [2401] and concerning some thou shalt pray, and
some thou shalt love more than thy own life. [2402]
Footnotes
[2389] The chapter, except this opening sentence and part of verse 7,
is found in Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 2-5; but the precepts are
separated and enlarged upon.
[2390] Ex. xx. 13, 14.
[2391] Or, "corrupt boys," as in the version of Apostolic
Constitutions.
[2392] Ex. xx. 15.
[2393] Comp. Ex. xxi. 22, 23. The Codex reads gennethenta, which
Schaff renders "the new-born child." Bryennios substitutes gennethen,
which is accepted by most editors, and rendered as above.
[2394] Ex. xx. 17.
[2395] Matt. v. 34.
[2396] Ex. xx. 16.
[2397] Rendered "nor shalt thou be mindful of injuries" in version of
Apostolic Constitutions.
[2398] So Barnabas, xix.
[2399] Verse 5, except the first clause, occurs only here.
[2400] Latter half of verse 6 in Barnabas, xix.
[2401] Lev. xix. 17; Apostolic Constitutions.
[2402] Or, "soul." The last part of the clause is found in Barnabas;
but "and concerning some...pray, and some" has no parallel. An
interesting verse in its literary history.
Chapter III. [2403] --Other Sins Forbidden
1. My child, [2404] flee from every evil thing, and from every
likeness of it. 2. Be not prone to anger, for anger leadeth the way to
murder; neither jealous, nor quarrelsome, nor of hot temper; for out
of all these murders are engendered. 3. My child, be not a lustful
one; for lust leadeth the way to fornication; neither a filthy talker,
nor of lofty eye; for out of all these adulteries are engendered. 4.
My child, be not an observer of omens, since it leadeth the way to
idolatry; neither an enchanter, nor an astrologer, nor a purifier, nor
be willing to took at these things; for out of all these idolatry is
engendered. 5. My child, be not a liar, since a lie leadeth the way to
theft; neither money-loving, nor vainglorious, for out of all these
thefts are engendered. 6. My child, be not a murmurer, since it
leadeth the way to blasphemy; neither self-willed nor evil-minded, for
out of all these blasphemies are engendered. 7. But be thou meek,
since the meek shall inherit the earth. [2405] 8. Be long-suffering
and pitiful and guileless and gentle and good and always trembling at
the words which thou hast heard. [2406] 9. Thou shalt not exalt
thyself, [2407] nor give over-confidence to thy soul. Thy soul shall
not be joined with lofty ones, but with just and lowly ones shall it
have its intercourse. 10. The workings that befall thee receive as
good, knowing that apart from God nothing cometh to pass. [2408]
Footnotes
[2403] About one-half of the matter of this chapter is to be found, in
well-nigh the same order, scattered through Apostolic Constitutions,
vii. 6 -8. The precepts are aimed at minor sins, and require no
particular comment. This chapter has the largest number of Greek words
not found in the New Testament.
[2404] The address "my child" does not occur in the parallel passages.
[2405] Matt. v. 5.
[2406] Isa. lxvi. 2, 5; Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 8.
[2407] Comp. Luke xviii. 14.
[2408] Ecclus. ii. 4. So Bryennios. Comp. last part of Apostolic
Constitutions vii. 8.
Chapter IV. [2409] --Various Precepts
1. My child, him that speaketh to thee the word of God remember night
and day; and thou shalt honour him as the Lord; [2410] for in the
place whence lordly rule is uttered, [2411] there is the Lord. 2. And
thou shalt seek out day by day the faces of the saints, in order that
thou mayest rest upon [2412] their words. 3. Thou shalt not long for
[2413] division, but shalt bring those who contend to peace. Thou
shalt judge righteously, thou shalt not respect persons in reproving
for transgressions. 4. Thou shalt not be undecided whether it shall be
or no. [2414] 5. Be not a stretcher forth of the hands to receive and
a drawer of them back to give. [2415] 6. If thou hast aught, through
thy hands thou shalt give ransom for thy sins. [2416] 7. Thou shalt
not hesitate to give, nor murmur when thou givest; for thou shalt know
who is the good repayer of the hire. 8. Thou shalt not turn away from
him that is in want, but thou shalt share all things with thy brother,
and shalt not say that they are thine own; for if ye are partakers in
that which is immortal, how much more in things which are mortal?
[2417] 9. Thou shalt not remove thy hand from thy son or from thy
daughter, but from their youth shalt teach them the fear of God.
[2418] 10. Thou shalt not enjoin aught in thy bitterness upon thy
bondman or maidservant, who hope in the same God, lest ever they shall
fear not God who is over both; [2419] for he cometh not to call
according to the outward appearance, but unto them whom the Spirit
hath prepared. 11. And ye bondmen shall be subject to your [2420]
masters as to a type of God, in modesty and fear. [2421] 12. Thou
shalt hate all hypocrisy and everything which is not pleasing to the
Lord. 13. Do thou in no wise forsake the commandments of the Lord; but
thou shalt keep what thou hast received, neither adding thereto nor
taking away therefrom. [2422] 14. In the church [2423] thou shalt
acknowledge thy transgressions, and thou shalt not come near for thy
prayer [2424] with an evil conscience. [2425] This is the way of life.
[2426]
Footnotes
[2409] This chapter, with the exception of a few clauses and words, is
found in Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 9-17. There are verbal
variations, but the order is exact. In Barnabas not so much of the
matter is found. There is, however, even greater verbal agreement in
many cases, though the order is quite different. Two important clauses
(verses 8, 14) find an exact parallel only in Barnabas. One phrase is
peculiar to the Teaching; see ver. 14.
[2410] Comp. Heb. xiii. 7. In Apostolic Constitutions there is a
transposition of words.
[2411] Schaff: "The Lordship is spoken of." Apostolic Constitutions,
"where the doctrine concerning God is," etc.
[2412] Or, "acquiesce in" (Apostolic Constitutions).
[2413] Some read poieseis, "make," as in Apostolic Constitutions and
Barnabas, instead of potheseis, Codex.
[2414] Comp. Ecclus. i. 28. The verse occurs in Barnabas; and in
Apostolic Constitutions "in thy prayer" is inserted, which is probably
the sense here.
[2415] Ecclus. iv. 31. The Greek word suspon occurs here and in
Barnabas, but not in Apostolic Constitutions.
[2416] Apostolic Constitutions adds, in explanation, Prov. xvi. 6.
[2417] Comp. Acts iv. 32; Rom. xv. 27. The latter half of the verse is
in Barnabas (not in Apostolic Constitutions), but with the
substitution of "incorruptible" and "corruptible."
[2418] Comp. Eph. vi. 4.
[2419] Comp. Eph. vi. 9; Col. iv. 1.
[2420] Codex reads "our;" editors correct to "your. "
[2421] Comp. Eph. vi. 5; Col. iii. 22.
[2422] Deut. xii. 32.
[2423] "In the congregation;" i.e., assembly of believers. This phrase
is omitted in both Barnabas and Apostolic Constitutions. Comp. Jas. v.
16.
[2424] Or, "to thy place of prayer" (Schaff).
[2425] So Barnabas; but Apostolic Constitutions, "in the day of thy
bitterness."
[2426] So Apostolic Constitutions; but Barnabas, "the way of light."
See note on chap. i. 1.
Chapter V. [2427] --The Way of Death
1. And the way of death [2428] is this: First of all it is evil and
full of curse: [2429] murders, [2430] adulteries, lusts, fornications,
thefts, idolatries, magic arts, witchcrafts, rapines, false
witnessings, hypocrisies, double-heartedness, deceit, haughtiness,
depravity, self-will, greediness, filthy talking, jealousy,
over-confidence, loftiness, boastfulness; 2. persecutors of the good,
[2431] hating truth, loving a lie, not knowing a reward for
righteousness, not cleaving [2432] to good nor to righteous judgment,
watching not for that which is good, but for that which is evil; from
whom meekness and endurance are far, loving vanities, pursuing
requital, not pitying a poor man, not labouring for the afflicted, not
knowing Him that made them, murderers of children, destroyers of the
handiwork of God, turning away from him that is in want, afflicting
him that is distressed, advocates of the rich, lawless judges of the
poor, utter sinners. [2433] Be delivered, children, from all these.
[2434]
Footnotes
[2427] This chapter finds nearly exact parallels in Barnabas, xx., and
Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 18, but with curious variations.
[2428] Barnabas has "darkness," but afterwards "way of eternal death."
[2429] Not in Apostolic Constitutions, and no exact parallel in
Barnabas.
[2430] Of the twenty-two sins named in this verse, Barnabas gives
fourteen, in differing order, and in the singular; Apostolic
Constitutions gives all but one (upsos, "loftiness" "haughtiness"), in
the same order, and with the same change from plural to singular.
[2431] This verse appears almost word for word in Barnabas, with two
additional clauses.
[2432] The Apostolic Constitutions give a parallel from this point;
verbally exact from the phrase, "not for that which is good."
[2433] The word panthamartetoi occurs only here, and in the parallel
passage in Barnabas (rendered in this edition "who are in every
respect transgressors," vol. i. [323]p. 149), and in Apostolic
Constitutions (rendered "full of sin"). A similar term occurs in the
recently recovered portion of 2 Clement, xviii., where Bishop
Lightfoot renders, as above, "an utter sinner."
[2434] Found verbatim in Apostolic Constitutions, not in Barnabas:
with the latter there is no further parallel, except a few phrases in
chap. xvi. 2, 3 (which see).
Chapter VI. [2435] --Against False Teachers, and Food Offered to Idols
1. See that no one cause thee to err [2436] from this way of the
Teaching, since apart from God it teacheth thee. 2. For if thou art
able to bear all the yoke [2437] of the Lord, thou wilt be perfect;
but if thou art not able, what thou art able that do. 3. And
concerning food, [2438] bear what thou art able; but against that
which is sacrificed to idols [2439] be exceedingly on thy guard; for
it is the service of dead gods. [2440]
Footnotes
[2435] Of this chapter, two phrases and one entire clause are found in
Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 19-21.
[2436] Comp. Matt. xxiv . 4 (Greek); Revised Version, "lead you
astray:" Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 19.
[2437] Or, "the whole yoke." Those who accept the Jewish-Christian
authorship refer this to the ceremonial law. It seems quite as likely
to mean ascetic regulations. Of these there are many traces, even in
the New-Testament churches.
[2438] Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 20, begins with a similar phrase,
but is explicitly against asceticism in this respect. The precepts
here do not indicate any such spirit as that opposed by Paul.
[2439] Comp. Acts xv. 20, 29; 1 Cor. viii. 4, etc., x. 18, etc. (Rom.
xiv. 20 refers to ascetic abstinence.) This prohibition had a
necessary permanence; comp. Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 21.
[2440] Comp. the same phrase in 2 Clement, iii. This chapter closes
the first part of the Teaching, that supposed to be intended for
catechumens. The absence of doctrinal statement does not necessarily
prove the existence of a circle of Gentile Christians where the
Pauline theology was unknown. If such a circle existed, emphasizing
the ethical side of Christianity to the exclusion of its doctrinal
basis, it disappeared very soon. From the nature of the case, that
kind of Christianity is intellectually weak and necessarily
short-lived.
Chapter VII.--Concerning Baptism
1. And concerning baptism, [2441] thus baptize ye: [2442] Having first
said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit, [2443] in living water. [2444] 2. But if
thou have not living water, baptize into other water; and if thou
canst not in cold, in warm. 3. But if thou have not either, pour out
water thrice [2445] upon the head into the name of Father and Son and
Holy Spirit. 4. But before the baptism let the baptizer fast, and the
baptized, and whatever others can; but thou shalt order the baptized
to fast one or two days before. [2446]
Footnotes
[2441] Verse 1 is found, well-nigh entire, in Apostolic Constitutions
vii. 22, but besides this only a few words of verses 2 and 4. The
chapter has naturally called out much discussion as to the mode of
baptism.
[2442] [[324]Elucidation I.]
[2443] Matt. xxviii. 19.
[2444] Probably running water.
[2445] The previous verses point to immersion; this permits pouring in
certain cases, which indicates that this mode was not unknown. The
trine application of the water, and its being poured on the head, are
both significant.
[2446] The fasting of the baptized is enjoined in Apostolic
Constitutions, but that of the baptizer (and others) is peculiar to
this document.
Chapter VIII. [2447] --Concerning Fasting and Prayer (the Lord's Prayer)
1. But let not your fasts be with the hypocrites; [2448] for they fast
on the second and fifth day of the week; but do ye fast on the fourth
day and the Preparation (Friday). [2449] 2. Neither pray as the
hypocrites; but as the Lord commanded in His Gospel, [2450] thus pray:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. Give us to-day our daily
(needful) bread, [2451] and forgive us our debt as we also forgive our
debtors. And bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the
evil one (or, evil); for Thine is the power and the glory for ever.
[2452] 3. Thrice in the day thus pray. [2453]
Footnotes
[2447] The entire chapter is found almost verbatim in Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 23, 24.
[2448] Comp. Matt. vi. 16.
[2449] The reasons for fasting on Wednesday and Friday are given in
Apostolic Constitutions (the days of betrayal and of burial). Monday
and Thursday were the Jewish fast-days. The word "Preparation" (day
before the Jewish sabbath) occurs in Matt. xxvii. 62, etc., and for
some time retained a place in Christian literature.
[2450] Matt. vi. 5, 9-13. This form of the Lord's Prayer is evidently
cited from Matthew, not from Luke. The textual variations are slight.
The citation is of importance as proving that the writer used this
Gospel, and that the liturgical use of the Lord's Prayer was common.
[2451] On this phrase, comp. Revised Version, Matt. vi. 11; Luke xi. 3
(text, margin, and American appendix).
[2452] The variation in the form of the doxology confirms the judgment
of textual criticism, which omits it in Matt. vi. 13. All early
liturgical literature tends in the same direction; comp. Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 24.
[2453] This is in accordance with Jewish usage. Dan. vi. 10; Ps. lv.
17. Comp. Acts iii. 1, x. 9.
Chapter IX. [2454] --The Thanksgiving (Eucharist)
1. Now concerning the Thanksgiving (Eucharist), thus give thanks. 2.
First, concerning the cup: [2455] We thank thee, our Father, for the
holy vine of David Thy servant, [2456] which Thou madest known to us
through Jesus Thy Servant; to Thee be the glory for ever. 3. And
concerning the broken bread: [2457] We thank Thee, our Father, for the
life and knowledge which Thou madest known to us through Jesus Thy
Servant; to Thee be the glory for ever. 4. Even as this broken bread
was scattered over the hills, [2458] and was gathered together and
became one, so let Thy Church be gathered together from the ends of
the earth into Thy kingdom; [2459] for Thine is the glory and the
power through Jesus Christ for ever. 5. But let no one eat or drink of
your Thanksgiving (Eucharist), but they who have been baptized into
the name of the Lord; for concerning this also the Lord hath said,
Give not that which is holy to the dogs. [2460]
Footnotes
[2454] The eucharistic prayers of this and the following chapter are
only partially reproduced in Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 25, 26;
that of verse 2 has no parallel.
[2455] This is a variation from the order of the New Testament and of
all liturgies: probably this led to its omission in Apostolic
Constitutions. The word "for" may be substituted for "concerning" here
and in verse 3. [Possibly a response for recipients.]
[2456] Peculiar to this passage, but derived from a common scriptural
figure and from the paschal formula. Comp. especially John xv. 1;
Matt. xxvi. 29; Mark xiv. 25.
[2457] The word kla'sma is found in the accounts of the feeding of the
multitude (Matt. xiv. 20, xv. 37, and parallels); it was naturally
applied to the broken bread of the Eucharist.
[2458] This reference to "hills," or "mountains," is used as an
argument against the Egyptian origin of the Teaching.
[2459] This part of the verse is found in Apostolic Constitutions.
Schaff properly calls attention to the distinction here made between
"Thy Church" and "Thy kingdom."
[2460] Matt. vii. 6.
Chapter X. [2461] --Prayer After Communion
1. But after ye are filled, [2462] thus give thanks: 2. We thank Thee,
holy Father, for Thy holy name which Thou didst cause to tabernacle in
our hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality, which
Thou madest known to us through Jesus Thy Servant; to Thee be the
glory for ever. 3. Thou, Master almighty, didst create all things for
Thy name's sake; Thou gavest food and drink to men for enjoyment, that
they might give thanks to Thee; but to us Thou didst freely give
spiritual food and drink and life eternal through Thy Servant. [2463]
4. Before all things we thank Thee that Thou art mighty; to Thee be
the glory for ever. 5. Remember, Lord, Thy Church, to deliver it from
all evil and to make it perfect in Thy love, and gather it from the
four winds, sanctified for Thy kingdom which Thou hast prepared for
it; [2464] for Thine is the power and the glory for ever. 6. Let grace
come, and let this world pass away. [2465] Hosanna to the God (Son)
[2466] of David! If any one is holy, let him come; if any one is not
so, let him repent. [2467] Maran atha. [2468] Amen. 7. But permit the
prophets to make Thanksgiving as much as they desire. [2469]
Footnotes
[2461] This post-communion thanksgiving is f ound in Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 26, but with many omissions, alterations, and
additions. Still, the correspondence in thought and language is very
remarkable. Schaff cites a similar prayer at the Passover (after the
Hallel cup).
[2462] "After the participation" (Apostolic Constitutions) points to a
distinct Eucharistic service. Here the Lord's Supper is evidently
connected with the Agape [a noteworthy suggestion]; comp. 1 Cor. xi.
20-22, 33. This is an evidence of early date; comp. Justin Martyr,
Apol. i. chaps. 64-66, where the Lord's Supper is shown to be distinct
(Ante-Nicene Fathers, i. pp. [325]185, 186).
[2463] This last clause has no parallel in Apostolic Constitutions,
and points to an earlier and more spiritual conception of the
Eucharist. Verse 4 also is peculiar to this passage.
[2464] The above rendering follows Bryennios; that of Harnack
(formerly accepted by Hall and Napier) is: "Gather it, sanctified,
from the four winds, into Thy kingdom," etc. The phrase "from the four
winds" recalls Matt. xxiv. 31.
[2465] This is peculiar; but comp. 1 Cor. vii. 31 for the last clause.
[2466] The Codex reads to ueo, which Bryennios alters to to uio. The
former is the more difficult reading, and is defended by Harnack.
[2467] This exhortation indicates a mixed assembly; comp. Apostolic
Constitutions. [If so, it belongs to the Agape.]
[2468] Cor. xvi. 22, Revised Version, margin: "That is, our Lord
cometh." Comp. Rev. xxii. 20.
[2469] A limitation as compared with 1 Cor. Xiv. 29, 31, and yet
indicating a combination of extemporaneous devotion with the
liturgical form. The verse prepares the way for the next chapter.
Chapter XI. [2470] --Concerning Teachers, Apostles, and Prophets
1. Whosoever, therefore, cometh and teacheth you all these things that
have been said before, receive him. [2471] 2. But if the teacher
himself turn [2472] and teach another doctrine to the destruction of
this, hear him not; but if he teach so as to increase righteousness
and the knowledge of the Lord, receive him as the Lord. 3. But
concerning the apostles and prophets, according to the decree of the
Gospel, thus do. 4. Let every apostle that cometh to you be received
as the Lord. [2473] 5. But he shall not remain except one day; but if
there be need, also the next; but if he remain three days, he is a
false prophet. 6. And when the apostle goeth away, let him take
nothing but bread until he lodgeth; [2474] but if he ask money, he is
a false prophet. 7. And every prophet that speaketh in the Spirit
[2475] ye shall neither try nor judge; for every sin shall be
forgiven, but this sin shall not be forgiven. [2476] 8. But not every
one that speaketh in the Spirit is a prophet; but only if he hold the
ways of the Lord. Therefore from their ways shall the false prophet
and the prophet be known. 9. And every prophet who ordereth a meal
[2477] in the Spirit eateth not from it, except indeed he be a false
prophet; 10. and every prophet who teacheth the truth, if he do not
what he teacheth, is a false prophet. 11. And every prophet, proved
true, [2478] working unto the mystery of the Church in the world,
[2479] yet not teaching others to do what he himself doeth, shall not
be judged among you, for with God he hath his judgment; for so did
also the ancient prophets. But whoever saith in the Spirit, Give me
money, or something else, ye shall not listen to him; but if he saith
to you to give for others' sake who are in need, let no one judge him.
Footnotes
[2470] The Apostolic Constitutions (vii. 27) present scarcely any
parallel to this chapter, which points to an earlier period, when
ecclesiastical polity was less developed, and the travelling
"Apostles" and "Prophets" here spoken of were numerous.
[[326]Elucidation II.]
[2471] This refers to all teachers, more fully described afterwards.
[2472] Lit. "being turned:" i.e. turned from the truth, perverted.
[2473] Matt. x. 40. The mention of apostles here has caused much
discussion, but there are many indications that travelling evangelists
were thus termed for some time after the apostolic age. Bishop
Lightfoot has shown, that, even in the New Testament, a looser use of
the term applied it to others than the Twelve. Comp. Rom. xvi. 7; 1
Cor. xv. 5, 7 (?); Gal. i. 19; 1 Thess. ii. 6: also, as applied to
Barnabas, Acts xiv. 4, 14.
[2474] Reach a place where he can lodge.
[2475] Under the influence of the charismatic gift spoken of in 1 Cor.
xii. 3, xiv. 2. Another indication of an early date.
[2476] Probably a reference to the sin against the Holy Spirit. Matt.
xii. 31, 32; Mark iii. 29, 30.
[2477] Probably a love-feast, commanded by the prophet in his peculiar
utterance.
[2478] alethinos, "genuine."
[2479] poion eis musterion kosmikon ekklesias, "working unto a worldly
mystery of (the) Church," or "making assemblies for a worldly
mystery." Either rendering is grammatical: neither is very
intelligible. The paraphrase in the above version presents one leading
view of this difficult passage: the mystery is the Church, and a
worldly one, because the Church is in the world. The other leading
view joins ekklesias (as accusative) with poion, "making assemblies
for a worldly mystery." So Bryennios, who regards the worldly mystery
as a symbolical act of the prophet. Others suggest, as the mystery for
which the assemblies are called, revelation of future events,
celibacy, the Eucharist, the ceremonial law. It seems, at all events,
to point to incipient fanaticism on the part of the prophets of those
days. [[327]Elucidation III.] This was likely to take the form either
of asceticism or of extravagant predictions and mystical fancies about
the Church in the world. Did we know the place and the time more
accurately, we might decide which was meant. This caution was
evidently needed: Let God judge such extravagances.
Chapter XII. [2480] --Reception of Christians
1. But let every one that cometh in the name of the Lord be received,
[2481] and afterward ye shall prove and know him; for ye shall have
understanding right and left. 2. If he who cometh is a wayfarer,
assist him as far as ye are able; but he shall not remain with you,
except for two or three days, if need be. 3. But if he willeth to
abide with you, being an artisan, let him work and eat; [2482] but if
he hath no trade, 4. according to your understanding see to it that,
as a Christian, [2483] he shall not live with you idle. 5. But if he
willeth not to do, he is a Christ-monger. [2484] Watch that ye keep
aloof from such.
Footnotes
[2480] Verse 1 is almost identical with the beginning of Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 28; the remaining verses have no parallel.
[2481] All professed Christians are meant.
[2482] Comp. 2 Thess. iii. 10.
[2483] The term occurs only here in the Teaching.
[2484] "Christ-trafficker." The abuse of Christian fellowship and
hospitality naturally followed the remarkable extension of
Christianity. This expressive term was coined to designate the class
of idlers who would make gain out of their professed Christianity. It
occurs in the longer form of the Ignatian Epistles (Trallians, vi.)
and in literature of the fourth century.
Chapter XIII. [2485] --Support of Prophets
1. But every true prophet that willeth to abide among you [2486] is
worthy of his support. [2487] 2. So also a true teacher is himself
worthy, as the workman, of his support. [2488] 3. Every first-fruit,
therefore, of the products of wine-press and threshing-floor, of oxen
and of sheep, thou shalt take and give to the prophets, for they are
your high priests. [2489] 4. But if ye have not a prophet, give it to
the poor. 5. If thou makest a batch of dough, take the first-fruit and
give according to the commandment. 6. So also when thou openest a jar
of wine or of oil, take the first-fruit and give it to the prophets;
7. and of money (silver) and clothing and every possession, take the
first-fruit, as it may seem good to thee, and give according to the
commandment.
Footnotes
[2485] A large part of this chapter is found in Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 28, 29, but with modifications and additions
indicating a later date.
[2486] "Who will settle among you" (Hitchcock and Brown). The
itinerant prophets might become stationary, we infer. Chaps. xi.-xv.
point to a movement from an itinerant and extraordinary ministry to a
more settled one.
[2487] Lit., "nourishment," "food."
[2488] Matt. x. 10; comp. Luke x. 7.
[2489] This phrase, indicating a sacerdotal view of the ministry,
seems to point to a later date than that claimed for the Teaching.
Some regard it as an interpolation: others take it in a figurative
sense. In Apostolic Constitutions the sacerdotal view is more marked.
[1 Pet. ii. 9. If the plebs = "priests," prophets = "high priests."]
Here the term is restricted to the prophets: compare Schaff in loco.
Chapter XIV. [2490] --Christian Assembly on the Lord's Day
1. But every Lord's day [2491] do ye gather yourselves together, and
break bread, and give thanksgiving after having confessed your
transgressions, [2492] that your sacrifice may be pure. [2493] 2. But
let no one that is at variance [2494] with his fellow come together
with you, until they be reconciled, that your sacrifice may not be
profaned. 3. For this is that which was spoken by the Lord: In every
place and time offer to me a pure sacrifice; [2495] for I am a great
King, saith the Lord, and my name is wonderful among the nations.
[2496]
Footnotes
[2490] Verses 1 and 3 are given substantially in Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 30. This chapter would seem to belong more
properly before chap. viii.; but the same order of topics is followed
in Apostolic Constitutions,--a remarkable proof of literary
connection.
[2491] Comp. Rev. i. 10. Here the full form is kata kuriaken de
Kurion. If the early date is allowed, this verse confirms the view
that from the first the Lord's Day was observed, and that, too, by a
eucharistic celebration.
[2492] Comp chap. iv. 14. No parallel in Apostolic Constitutions.
[2493] On this spiritual sense of "sacrifice," comp. Rom. xii. 1;
Phil. ii. 17; Heb. xiii. 15; 1 Pet. ii. 5.
[2494] "That hath the (or, any) dispute" (amphibolian); comp. Matt. v.
23, 24.
[2495] [See Mal. i. 11. See Irenæus, cap. xvii. 5, vol. i. [328]p.
484.]
[2496] Mal. i. 11, 14. Quoted in Apostolic Constitutions and by
several Ante-Nicene Fathers, with the same reference to the Eucharist.
Chapter XV. [2497] --Bishops and Deacons; Christian Reproof
1. Appoint, therefore, for yourselves, bishops and deacons worthy of
the Lord, men meek, and not lovers of money, [2498] and truthful and
proved; for they also render to you the service [2499] of prophets and
teachers. 2. Despise them not therefore, for they are your honoured
ones, together with the prophets and teachers. 3. And reprove one
another, not in anger, but in peace, as ye have it in the Gospel;
[2500] but to every one that acts amiss [2501] against another, let no
one speak, nor let him hear aught from you until he repent. 4. But
your prayers and alms and all your deeds so do, as ye have it in the
Gospel of our Lord. [2502]
Footnotes
[2497] The larger part of verse 1, and a clause from verses 2, 3,
respectively, are found in Apostolic Constitutions, vii. 31. Verses 1,
2, both in the use of terms and in the Church polity indicated, point
to an early date: (1) There are evident marks of a transition from
extraordinary to ordinary ministers. (2) The distinction between
bishops and elders does not appear [1 Pet. v. 1. Vol. i. [329]p. 16,
this series], and yet it is found in Ignatius. (3) The word
cheirotoneo is here used in the sense of "elect" or "appoint" (by show
of hands), and not in that of "ordain" (by laying on of hands). The
former is the New Testament sense (Acts xiv. 23; 2 Cor. viii. 19),
also in Ignatius; the latter sense is found in Apostolic Canons, i.
(4) The choice by the people also indicates an early period.
[2498] Comp. 1 Tim. iii. 4.
[2499] Or, "ministry." This clause and the following verse indicate
that the extraordinary ministers were as yet more highly regarded.
[2500] Comp. Matt. xviii. 15-17.
[2501] The word astocheo, occurring here, means "to miss the mark;" in
New Testament, "to err" or, "swerve." See 1 Tim. i. 6, vi. 21; 2 Tim.
ii. 18.
[2502] The reference here is probably to the Sermon on the Mount:
Matt. v.-vii., especially to chap. vi.
Chapter XVI. [2503] --Watchfulness; The Coming of the Lord
1. Watch for your life's sake. [2504] Let not your lamps be quenched,
nor your loins unloosed; [2505] but be ye ready, for ye know not the
hour in which our Lord cometh. [2506] 2. But often shall ye come
together, seeking the things which are befitting to your souls: for
the whole time of your faith will not profit you, [2507] if ye be not
made perfect in the last time. 3. For in the last days [2508] false
prophets and corrupters shall be multiplied, and the sheep shall be
turned into wolves, and love shall be turned into hate; [2509] 4. for
when lawlessness increaseth, they shall hate and persecute and betray
one another, [2510] and then shall appear the world-deceiver [2511] as
the Son of God, [2512] and shall do signs and wonders, [2513] and the
earth shall be delivered into his hands, and he shall do iniquitous
things which have never yet come to pass since the beginning. 5. Then
shall the creation of men come into the fire of trial, [2514] and many
shall be made to stumble and shall perish; but they that endure in
their faith shall be saved [2515] from under the curse itself. [2516]
6. And then shall appear the signs of the truth; [2517] first, the
sign of an out-spreading [2518] in heaven; then the sign of the sound
of the trumpet; and the third, the resurrection of the dead; 7. yet
not of all, but as it is said: The Lord shall come and all His saints
with Him. [2519] 8. Then shall the world see the Lord coming upon the
clouds of heaven. [2520]
Footnotes
[2503] The resemblance between this chapter and Apostolic
Constitutions, vii. 31, 32, is mainly in order of topics and in the
identity of some phrases and terms. Verses 3 and 4 (to the word
"world-deceiver") are reproduced almost verbatim. That the writer of
the Teaching used Matt. xxiv. is extremely probable, but the
connection of Apostolic Constitutions, with this passage is evident.
In Barnabas, iv., there are a few corresponding phrases.
[2504] Or, "over your life;" the clause occurs verbatim in Apostolic
Constitutions.
[2505] Comp. Luke xii. 35, which is exactly cited in Apostolic
Constitutions.
[2506] Matt. xxiv. 42.
[2507] Here Barnabas, iv., furnishes a parallel.
[2508] This reference to the last days as present or impending is an
evidence of early date; comp. Barnabas, iv., and many passages in the
New Testament. The mistake has been in measuring God's prophetic
chronology by our mathematical standard of years.
[2509] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 11, 12.
[2510] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 10.
[2511] ho kosmoplanos, found only here and in Apostolic Constitutions,
vii. 32. Comp. 2 Thess. ii. 3, 4, 8; Rev. xii. 9.
[2512] Not found in Apostolic Constitutions. The expression plainly
implies the belief that Jesus Christ was Son of God.
[2513] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 24. The rest of the verse has no parallel.
[2514] Comp. 1 Pet. iv. 12. where purosis also occurs.
[2515] Comp. Matt x. 22 and similar passages; none of them directly
cited here.
[2516] hup' autou tou katathematos, "from under the curse itself:"
namely, that which has just been described. Bryennios and others
render "by the curse Himself;" that is, Christ, whom they were tempted
to revile. All other interpretations either rest on textual
emendations or are open to grammatical objections. Of the two given
above, that of Hall and Napier seems preferable.
[2517] "Truth" might refer to Christ Himself, but the personal advent
is spoken of in verse 8; it is better, then, to refer it to the truth
respecting the parousia held by the early Christians. For this belief
they were mocked, and hence dwelt upon it and the prophecies
respecting it. The verse is probably based upon Matt. xxiv. 30, 31;
but some find here, as in verse 4, an allusion to Paul's
eschatological statements in the Epistles to the Thessalonians.
[2518] Professor Hall now prefers to render ekpetaseos,
"outspreading," instead of "unrolling," as in his version originally.
Hitchcock and Brown, Schaff, and others, prefer "opening;" that is,
the apparent o pening in heaven through which the Lord will descend.
"Outspreading" is usually explained (so Professor Hall) as meaning the
expanded sign of the cross in the heavens, the patristic
interpretation of Matt. xxiv. 30. Bryennios and Farrar refer it to the
flying forth of the saints to meet the Lord. There are other
interpretations based on textual emendations. As the word is very
rare, it is difficult to determine the exact sense. "Opening" seems
lexically allowable and otherwise free from objection.
[2519] Zech. xiv. 5. This citation is given substantially in Apostolic
Constitutions. As here used, it seems to point to the first
resurrection. Comp. 1 Thess. iv. 17; 1 Cor. xv. 23; Rev. xx. 5.
Probably it is based upon the Pauline eschatology rather than upon
that of the Apocalypse. At all events, there is no allusion to the
millennial statement of the latter. Since there was in the early
Church, in connection with the expectation of the speedy coming of
Christ, a marked tendency to Chiliasm, the silence respecting the
millennium may indicate that the writer was not acquainted with the
Apocalypse. This inference is allowable, however, only on the
assumption of the early date of the Teaching.
[2520] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 30. The conclusion is abrupt, and in
Apostolic Constitutions the New-Testament doctrine of future
punishment and reward is added. The absence of all reference to the
destruction of Jerusalem would indicate that some time had elapsed
since that event. An interval of from thirty to sixty years may well
be claimed.
Elucidations
I
(Thus baptize ye, [330]p. 379.)
If we compare this chapter with the corresponding one in the Apostolic
Constitutions, the Teaching seems to me to be a somewhat abridged form
of a common original. This being designed for the catechumens, there
is an omission of what they are afterwards to know. A form originally
drawn up for clergy and people has been very inartificially expurgated
for the instruction of young disciples. This appears from the ninth
chapter (p. 380), where only certain receptive or responsive forms are
given. The liturgy of the Apostolic Constitutions, book viii.,
embodies what was studiously kept from all but the te'leioi, i.e.,
those "of full age."
II
(Concerning Apostles, p. 380, [331]note 16.)
The reference to "apostles," probably itinerant, in Rev. ii. 2,
corresponds with this. There were officers known in the Apostolic day
(compare 2 Cor. viii. 23, Greek) as apo'stoloi ekklesion, for the
pseud-apostles of the Apocalypse could not have pretended what they
did had it been otherwise. Neither would it have been needful to "try
those who said they were apostles," in that case: the mere assertion
of such a pretence would have sufficiently convicted them.
The very childish directions (suited to mere catechumens) given in the
text illustrates Rev ii. 2, and is, so far, evidence of the very early
origin of the Teaching.
The name apostles was made technical by Christ Himself: "He named them
Apostles" (Luke vi. 13). And the word is never used in the loose way
which Bishop Lightfoot hazardously suggests, as I must venture to
believe.
III
(Incipient fanaticism, p. 381, [332]note 25.)
Unquestionably, for even in St. Paul's day his admonitions imply
nothing less. See 1 Cor. cap. xiv., passim. But, as in the
Introductory Notice [2521] I hinted my suspicions of incipient
Montanism in the Teaching, so I am strengthened in this idea by the
learned critic to whose note I venture to append this remark for the
purpose of asking a reference to my annotations of Hermas in vol. ii.
of this series. May I also ask a reference to the same volume, pp.
[333]4, 5, and 6? The "meal" ([334]note 23, p. 380) of the Teaching is
doubtless the Agape, which had been abused at so early a day, that St.
Peter [2522] himself was forced to denounce the "false prophets" who
polluted this feast of charity.
Footnotes
[2521] P. 371, supra.
[2522] Pet. ii. 13. Compare 1 John iv. 1.
[2369] The longer title is supposed to be the original one; the
shorter, a popular abridgment. The latter has no real connection with
Acts ii. 42. Many hold that the term "nations" (or "Gentiles") points
to a Jewish Christian as the author (so Bryennios), though this is
denied by others (so Brown). A similar diversity of opinion exists as
to the class of readers; but, if the early date is accepted, the more
probable theory is, that the first part at least of the manual was for
the instruction of catechumens of Gentile birth (so Bryennios,
Schaff). Others extend it to Gentile Christians.
Also, see links to 3500 other Manuscripts:
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