E202: The Unwritten Years of Early Christianity w/Voice of Reason

Apr 4, 2025

In a thought-provoking discussion, Alex Jurado, a renowned Christian apologist, delves into the foundational years of early Christianity. He examines how the apostles conveyed Jesus’s teachings before the Bible was formalized, revealing the significance of oral tradition. Alex also touches on early church governance, highlighting the crucial roles of figures like St. Justin Martyr and the Eucharist's origins. With a focus on finding common ground, he explores the connections between the synoptic gospels and the impact of Paul’s unique apostolic authority.

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INSIGHT

Founding of the Church

Start with Jesus and the apostles, focusing on the Book of Acts.
The apostles spread the Gospel, ordained ministers, and established local churches forming the universal Church.

INSIGHT

Oral Tradition Gap

There's a 17-year gap between Jesus' ascension and the first New Testament writing.
During this time, apostles spread the Gospel orally, sharing dogmas and teachings.

INSIGHT

Gospel Timeline

Mark's Gospel was likely written first in the 50s AD.
The other Gospels (Matthew, Luke, and John) followed in the 60s AD.

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1 Timothy

Paul S. Jeon

In this commentary, Paul S. Jeon delves into the first letter to Timothy, emphasizing the restoration of authority and piety within God's family. The book is divided into two main sections: authority in God’s family (chapters 1-3) and piety in God’s family (chapters 4-6). Jeon explores themes such as the discrediting of false teachers, the qualifications of elders and deacons, and the importance of proper conduct and stewardship within the Church. The commentary highlights the image of family as a critical backdrop for Paul's exhortations and encourages believers to lead a peaceful, godly, and dignified life[5].

Titus

A Comrade of the Cross

Florence Morse Kingsley

Written by Florence Morse Kingsley, 'Titus: A Comrade of the Cross' is a fictional account of the life of Jesus Christ set in Jerusalem. The story was the result of a writing competition aimed at strengthening children's faith in Christ. It vividly portrays the love, mercy, and compassion of Jesus, and includes themes of sadness, sorrow, and the healing power of Jesus. The book has been highly popular since its publication in 1894.

The Book of Acts

Acts of the Apostles

Luke the Evangelist

The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and serves as a sequel to the Gospel of Luke. It chronicles the history of the early Christian church, beginning with the ascension of Jesus Christ and ending with Paul's imprisonment in Rome. The book is divided into two main sections: the first focuses on the ministry of Peter in Jerusalem and Samaria (Acts 1–12), and the second follows Paul's missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire (Acts 13–28). It highlights the transition of the gospel message from a Jewish audience to the Gentiles, the empowerment of believers by the Holy Spirit, and the growth of the church despite persecutions. The book also explores the relationship between Christians and the Roman Empire, showing how Christians could obey both God and the civil authorities[2][3][5].

2 Timothy

Paul S. Jeon

In this commentary, Paul S. Jeon provides a detailed analysis of 2 Timothy, emphasizing the themes of endurance, faithfulness, and the personal relationship between Paul and Timothy. The book uses a chiastic outline to explore the letter's structure and meaning, drawing on historical context and interactions with other scholarly voices. It highlights Paul's encouragement to Timothy to rekindle his spiritual gift, remember his calling, and endure in the face of apostasy and challenges[1][4][5].

The Gospel of Matthew

St. Matthew

Gospel of Mark

H.A Guy

The Gospel of Mark is the earliest of the four Gospels and provides a unique perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes Jesus' role as both the powerful Messiah and the vulnerable suffering servant. The narrative highlights key themes such as the Kingdom of God, the messianic secret, and Jesus' mission to suffer and die for the redemption of others. The Gospel is set against the backdrop of Jewish apocalyptic expectations and the socio-political landscape of 1st-century Judea, serving as a theological treatise and a pastoral response to a community in crisis[2][3][5].

The Gospel of John

John the Apostle (attributed)

The Gospel of John is the fourth of the New Testament's canonical gospels. It presents a highly schematic account of Jesus' ministry, focusing on seven 'signs' or miracles that demonstrate Jesus' divinity, and seven 'I am' discourses that highlight his divine identity. The gospel is divided into sections: a prologue introducing Jesus as the Word of God, the 'Book of Signs' detailing Jesus' ministry, the 'Book of Glory' covering his final night, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection, and a conclusion stating the gospel's purpose. The author's intent is clear: 'that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name' (John 20:31)[2][4][5].

The Gospel of Luke

Luke the Evangelist

The Gospel of Luke is the third Gospel in the New Testament and provides a detailed account of Jesus Christ's life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Luke, who was not an eyewitness to Jesus' ministry but carefully investigated everything from the beginning, wrote this Gospel to give believers an accurate and chronological understanding of Jesus' life. The book emphasizes Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost (Lk 19:10) and highlights his interactions with various groups, including the poor, outcasts, and marginalized. It also situates Jesus' life within the broader context of the Roman Empire, contrasting Jesus with the Roman Emperor Augustus to emphasize Jesus' role as the true savior of the world[1][3][4].

1 Corinthians 13

William D. Sulzer

1 Corinthians 13 is a chapter in the New Testament that focuses on the importance of charity. It describes the characteristics of charity and its role in spiritual growth. The chapter emphasizes the importance of love in all aspects of life. It encourages readers to strive for a life of selfless service and compassion. 1 Corinthians 13 provides a powerful testimony of the importance of love in the Christian faith. The chapter offers profound insights into the nature of love and its impact on individual lives and society.

The Didache

Kirsopp Lake

CrossReach Publications

The Didache, or "Teaching of the Twelve Apostles," is an early Christian text offering instructions on Christian life and practice. It's believed to have been written in the 1st or 2nd century AD. The Didache provides guidance on baptism, Eucharist, and moral conduct. It emphasizes ethical behavior, including instructions on fasting and prayer. Its significance lies in its glimpse into the early church's practices and beliefs.

Letter to the Galatians

Epistle of St. Paul the Apostle to the Galatians

The Apostle Paul

The Letter to the Galatians is a foundational text in the New Testament, written by Paul the Apostle to address theological disputes in early Christian communities. It emphasizes justification by faith rather than adherence to the Mosaic Law, countering the influence of Judaizers who insisted on circumcision and other Jewish practices for Gentile converts. The letter defends Paul's apostolic authority and clarifies the relationship between faith and works in Christian salvation.

Shepherd of Hermas

Anonymous

Alexander Roberts

James Donaldson

The Shepherd of Hermas is an early Christian text, considered part of the Apostolic Fathers collection. It's structured into three parts: Visions, Mandates, and Similitudes. The text's popularity is evident in the numerous surviving manuscripts and translations. It's often described as tedious or monotonous by modern readers, prompting scholarly investigation into its function and reception. The work's significance lies in its exploration of early Christian beliefs and practices, offering insights into the development of Christian theology and morality.

The Book of Acts

Acts of the Apostles

Luke the Evangelist

Book of Galatians

Tom Meyer

In this study, Joyce Meyer delves into Paul's letter to the church at Galatia, highlighting the importance of unity in Christ, justification by faith, and the pursuit of a holy life. The book features inspiring questions and space for reflections, guiding readers to break free from sinful nature and live by faith.

The book of Joseph

Renée C. T. Zeller

Letter to the Smyrnians

None

Ignatius of Antioch

The Letter to the Smyrnians, written by Ignatius of Antioch, is a significant early Christian text. It addresses the church in Smyrna, offering guidance and encouragement during a period of persecution. Ignatius emphasizes the importance of unity, obedience to church leadership, and steadfastness in faith. He strongly defends the reality of the Eucharist as the body and blood of Christ, countering Gnostic heresies. The letter provides valuable insights into the early church's understanding of Christology, ecclesiology, and the importance of maintaining orthodox doctrine.

First Apology

Justin Martyr

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.

Epistle of Clement

None

Clement of Rome

The Epistle of Clement, attributed to Clement of Rome, is one of the earliest surviving Christian writings. It's believed to have been written around the end of the first century AD. The letter addresses the church in Corinth, offering guidance and encouragement during a period of internal conflict. Clement emphasizes the importance of unity, peace, and obedience to church leadership. He draws upon Old Testament examples and teachings to illustrate his points. The letter provides valuable insights into the early church's structure, practices, and understanding of Christian faith.