Truth Unites When Did the Papacy Begin? (Response to Joe Heschmeyer)
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Oct 29, 2025 Gavin Ortlund tackles Joe Heschmeyer's claims about altering the Didache, defending his scholarly interpretation. He highlights the consensus on early church leadership being plural rather than monarchical. The discussion dives into the nuances of the Didache and its implications for the papacy. Ortlund challenges accusations of misrepresentation while laying out his argument that the papacy developed later in church history. He calls for respectful dialogue focused on evidence-based evaluations.
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Didache Distinguishes Local Officers From Itinerants
- The Didache distinguishes elected local officers (bishops and deacons) from itinerant roles (prophets and teachers).
- This supports the view that early churches had plural, local leadership rather than monarchical bishops.
Scholarly Consensus Favors Two Local Offices
- Major scholarship treats prophets and teachers as itinerant, charismatic ministries rather than permanent local offices.
- Therefore many scholars read the Didache as recognizing two local offices plus non-elected traveling ministers.
Quote Relevant Passages, Then Cite Context If Needed
- Quote only the portion of a text that's relevant to your argument without implying deception.
- Be prepared to cite broader context when critics claim quote-mining.
