Infant Baptism in the Second and Third Centuries

Eusebius of Caesarea, a prominent Christian historian of the 4th century, wrote the "Ecclesiastical History" (Historia Ecclesiastica), which serves as a crucial primary source for the early history of Christianity. The work spans from the apostolic age to Eusebius's own time, documenting the development of the Church, its leaders, significant events, and theological controversies. It offers valuable insights into the lives of early Christians and the challenges they faced, including persecution under the Roman Empire. Eusebius draws upon a range of sources, including earlier historical works, letters, and official documents, to construct his narrative. His "Ecclesiastical History" has had a lasting influence on the study of church history and remains an essential resource for understanding the formative centuries of Christianity.

Justin Martyr's First Apology is a significant early Christian text, written as a defense of Christianity to the Roman emperor. It provides valuable insights into the beliefs and practices of the early church. Justin Martyr explains Christian doctrines, such as the nature of God, the divinity of Christ, and the importance of baptism and the Eucharist. He also describes the structure and organization of the early church, including the role of bishops and deacons. The Apology offers a compelling account of early Christianity and its relationship with the Roman Empire.

Plato's *Apology* is a historical and philosophical account of Socrates' defense at his trial in 399 BCE. Socrates was charged with corrupting the youth and impiety, but instead of apologizing, he defended his actions as a philosopher, emphasizing his commitment to truth and virtue. The dialogue captures Socrates' fearless reasoning and his reflections on mortality, leading to his eventual sentencing to death by drinking hemlock.

The Acts of Paul and Thecla is an early Christian apocryphal text that tells the story of Thecla, a young woman who becomes a devoted follower of Paul. The narrative recounts Thecla's rejection of a marriage proposal, her baptism, and her subsequent life as a Christian ascetic. The text explores themes of faith, female agency, and the challenges faced by early Christians. It's considered a significant example of early Christian literature, offering insights into the beliefs and practices of the time. The story's popularity and influence on later Christian traditions highlight its enduring appeal and theological significance.

Written around 180 AD, 'Against Heresies' is a five-book treatise that identifies and refutes various schools of Gnosticism and other heretical Christian thought. Irenaeus argues against the interpretations of scripture by Gnostics such as Valentinus and Marcion, and defends the orthodox Christian tradition. The work is historically significant as one of the earliest unambiguous attestations of the canonical gospel texts and some of the Pauline epistles. It remains a crucial source for understanding early Christian theology and the doctrines of Gnosticism.