What is the Didache?

Answer

The term Didache originates from the Greek word related to doctrine, didactic, teaching, and so forth. The Didache is a contentious instructional book, the writing date of which has been extensively debated. Presently, the Didache, a non-canonical text, is thought to have been authored between A.D. 70 and A.D. 100. It is attributed to the twelve Apostles. The Greek “Apostolic Constitutions” make numerous mentions of the Didache, along with additional Scriptures. The Didache appears to have functioned as a type of church handbook for early Christians, likely in rural regions relying mainly on traveling ministers. It underwent revisions over time, resulting in different versions in various locations.

Various writings and catalogs from the early fourth century make reference to a document known as the “Teaching” or “Teachings” of the Apostles. Nonetheless, it has not been definitively established that this pertains to the Didache. The current rendition of the ancient Didache serves as a dependable resource for comprehending the ethical code of the early Christian society.

The Didache discusses the paths to life and death. As per the Didache, the path of life instructs individuals to worship only one God, love their neighbor as themselves, and adhere to a principle akin to what is now recognized as the Golden Rule. Various teachings emphasize viewing God as omnipotent, seeking Him ceaselessly, having no doubts about the truth of His Word, obeying God’s commandments, acknowledging our transgressions, and approaching prayer with a clear conscience. This is depicted as the path of life.

In the Didache, the route to death is deemed wicked and is chosen by those who oppress the righteous, unaware of the rewards of righteousness. The elements found on the path to death in the Didache are outlined in Revelation 22:15. Once more, there is a caution against false teachers, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the genuine gospel. The Didache states that tempting or challenging any prophet speaking in the Spirit will not be forgiven. Any person who practices this will face repercussions.

Any prophet who is an approved minister but does not teach others will face God’s judgment. The creation of man will culminate in a fiery trial of proof, and many will perish. The sign of Jesus Christ’s appearing will occur, followed by the sound of the Trumpet, and then the resurrection of the dead. “Then the world will witness the Lord coming on the clouds of Heaven.”