Gain vital historical and theological insight into Apostolic Christianity’s early development and spread in the Roman Empire

To understand the New Testament well, it is important to study the larger world surrounding it, and one of the primary avenues for this exploration is through reading related ancient texts, a daunting task for scholars and novices alike given the sheer size of the ancient literary corpora. The ALNTS series aims to bridge this gap by introducing the key ancient texts that form the cultural, historical, and literary context for the study of the New Testament.

The Apostolic Fathers, among the earliest Christian writings outside the New Testament, offer vital insight into early Christianity during the first half of the second century. These documents reflect a diverse theological and social landscape, where shared convictions existed alongside sharp disagreements that generated ongoing debate.

This volume is divided into two sections. The first includes eleven chapters that examine the standard Apostolic Fathers texts, addressing introductory issues, textual commentary, interpretive difficulties, and connections to the New Testament. The second features eight thematic chapters that trace recurring concerns across the corpus, drawing attention to both continuity and divergence.

Authored by leading scholars with extensive expertise, the volume contributes new perspectives on texts that have influenced doctrinal development, ecclesial formation, and patterns of Christian identity from antiquity to the present. It offers an essential resource for scholars in early Christianity, patristics, and New Testament studies.

Contributors

• Brian J. Arnold
• Michael F. Bird
• Paul Foster
• Andrew Gregory
• Mark Grundeken
• Scott Harrower
• Paul Hartog
• Clayton N. Jefford
• James A. Kelhoffer
• Michael J. Kruger
• David Lincicum
• Teresa Morgan
• Carolyn Osiek
• Clare K. Rothschild
• Gregory Vall
• William Varner
• Joseph Verheyden