Early Christianity

Early Christianity lasted from 27 AD to 100 AD. This is because it is when the Ministry of Jesus was established and the death of the last apostle (John)

## Naming

The First Christians went under many titles such as The Way (τῆς ὁδοῦ), The Nazarenes, and Follower of Christ (Χριστιανός) "Christian" (Χρῑστῐᾱνός, Khrīstiānós), Christianoi (“the followers of the Christ”).

## Beliefs

### New Converts

New converts, often referred to as "Catechumens", they would typically undergo a three year period of instruction and catechesis before being baptized. During this time, they would receive teachings about Christian beliefs, ethics, and practices. Catechumens were instructed in the Scriptures, the life and teachings of Jesus, and the foundational doctrines of the faith. Catechumens were also introduced to the liturgical life of the Christian community. They would attend regular worship services but were usually dismissed before the Eucharistic celebration, which was reserved for baptized members. This exclusion from the Eucharist was a way to emphasize the distinction between the catechumens and full members of the Christian community. Some early Christian communities practiced forms of asceticism during the catechumenate. This might involve fasting, prayer, and other spiritual disciplines to prepare the catechumens for the life of faith and the sacrament of baptism. The culmination of the catechumenate was baptism, which was typically administered on Easter Sunday, also known as the feast day of Easter. Easter, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, was seen as the most appropriate time for new converts to be symbolically united with Christ in His death and resurrection through the sacrament of baptism. Before baptism, catechumens would publicly renounce their previous pagan beliefs and practices. This was a significant step in the conversion process, signifying a break from their former way of life and allegiance to the new Christian faith. The actual baptismal rite involved immersion in water, which symbolized the washing away of sin and the new birth in Christ. In some cases, anointing with oil and the laying on of hands would also be part of the baptismal ceremony. Reception into the Christian Community: Following baptism, the new believers were welcomed into the full communion of the Christian community. They could now participate in the Eucharistic celebration and all aspects of the Christian life.

### Creeds

1. Philippians 2:6-11
2. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
3. 1 Timothy 3:16
4. Romans 10:9-10
5. Acts 8:37
6. Didache
7. The Apostles' Creed
8. The Old Roman Creed
9. Baptismal Confessions
10. Hymns and Psalms

### Ancestry in Connection to Faith

The Apostle Paul emphasized that one's ancestry or bloodline was no longer the primary factor determining one's relationship with God or eligibility for salvation. Instead, faith, often described using the Greek word "pistis" (meaning loyalty or faithfulness), in Jesus Christ became the central requirement for salvation. Faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior became the new criterion for salvation. This faith was not limited by one's ancestry, ethnicity, or geographic location. Instead, it was a call to all people, regardless of their background, to place their trust and loyalty in Jesus Christ.

### Basic Principles

In 49 CE, The Apostolic Council decided that pagans converts had to observe some Jewish principles such as abstain from certain practices like eating food sacrificed to idols, consuming blood, and engaging in sexual immorality. (Acts 15).

### Book of Acts

Early Christians would gather for prayer, both individually and corporately. One significant instance is the Day of Pentecost when the disciples were together in prayer, and the Holy Spirit descended upon them (Acts 1:14; Acts 2:1-4). Early Christians often met together for communal worship. They would gather in homes or other meeting places to break bread, which likely included the sharing of meals and the celebration of the Eucharist (Acts 2:42-47; Acts 20:7-12). The apostles and other leaders preached and taught the message of Jesus Christ. They used the Hebrew Scriptures to demonstrate how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. For example, Peter's sermon on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14-36) and Paul's teaching in various synagogues and public spaces (Acts 17:2-3; Acts 18:4) are notable examples. Baptism played a crucial role in the early Christian community as a means of initiation into the faith. People were baptized upon their confession of faith in Jesus Christ. The Ethiopian eunuch's baptism by Philip (Acts 8:26-39) and the baptism of Cornelius and his household (Acts 10:44-48) are notable accounts. Acts records numerous instances of miraculous healings and other signs and wonders performed by the apostles and early believers in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 3:1-10; Acts 5:12-16). Early Christians practiced a form of communal living in which they shared their possessions and resources with one another. This sense of communal sharing is described in Acts 2:44-45 and Acts 4:32-37. Acts portrays the early Christians as actively engaging in evangelism and mission work. They spread the message of Jesus to different regions and among different people groups, including both Jews and Gentiles. The Book of Acts also documents instances of persecution faced by early Christians for their faith. Stephen's martyrdom in Acts 7 and the persecution of the apostles by religious authorities are examples of the challenges they encountered.

### Baptism

Baptism was indeed an integral practice in early Christianity. It was seen as a way to symbolize one's repentance, forgiveness of sins, and commitment to follow Jesus Christ. Early Christian writings, even those predating the New Testament, indicate that baptism was practiced as a significant rite of initiation into the Christian community. Baptism is prominently featured in the New Testament. Jesus' disciples practiced baptism during His ministry, and John the Baptist is well-known for baptizing people as a sign of repentance. After Jesus' resurrection, His disciples were instructed to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). In the Book of Acts, there are instances where people were baptized specifically in the name of Jesus Christ (e.g., Acts 2:38). This practice was an expression of faith in Jesus as the Messiah and Lord. The apostle Paul, in his letters, often used baptism as a symbol of identification with Christ's death and resurrection. He described it as being "buried with Christ in his death" and "raised to walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:3-4). Paul's teachings contributed to the theological understanding of baptism within early Christianity. There is a strong emphasis on "believer's baptism." This means that individuals are baptized after they have personally professed faith in Jesus Christ and have made a conscious decision to follow Him.

### Agape Feast

Early Christian rituals included communal meals. The Eucharist was often a part of the Lovefeast, but between the latter part of the 1st century AD and 250 AD the two became separate rituals. The lovefeast originated in the early Church and was a time of fellowship for believers. The earliest reference to a meal of the type referred to as agape is in Paul the Apostle's First Epistle to the Corinthians, although the term can only be inferred vaguely from its prominence in 1 Cor 13. Many New Testament scholars hold that the Christians of Corinth met in the evening and had a common meal including sacramental action over bread and wine. It apparently involved a full meal, with the participants bringing their own food but eating in a common room.

### Worshiping

The Christian celebration of the Eucharist, also known as the Lord's Supper or Communion, replaced elements of the Jewish Passover Seder. While the Eucharist has some similarities to the Passover meal, it took on a distinct Christian meaning. In the Eucharist, Christians remember and participate in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through the sharing of bread and wine, which symbolize His body and blood. Early Christians developed their own liturgical practices and texts for worship. These included prayers, hymns, and liturgical structures that were distinct from the Jewish Siddur. Over time, various liturgical traditions emerged within the Christian Church, leading to the development of liturgical calendars, sacraments, and rites. Christian Worship Spaces: Christians began constructing dedicated places of worship known as churches, which were distinct from synagogues. These church buildings served as centers for Christian worship and community gatherings. They were designed to accommodate the celebration of the Eucharist and other Christian rituals.The Lord's Day (Sunday Worship): Early Christians shifted their primary day of communal worship from the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday) to the first day of the week, known as the Lord's Day (Sunday). This change was in recognition of the resurrection of Jesus on a Sunday and marked the distinctiveness of Christian worship from Jewish Sabbath observance.Christian Theology and Doctrine: Christian theology developed independently of Jewish thought, articulating unique beliefs about the nature of God, the Trinity, salvation through Christ, and other core doctrines that set Christianity apart from Judaism.

### Liturgy and Rites

Eucharist (Lord's Supper): The practice of the Eucharist, also known as the Lord's Supper or Communion, was one of the central liturgical practices of early Christianity. Christians gathered to break bread and share wine in remembrance of Jesus' last meal with His disciples. This practice, rooted in Jesus' own actions (as recorded in the Gospels), was central to early Christian worship (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). Baptism was another important liturgical rite during this period. It was seen as the means of initiation into the Christian community. Converts would be baptized as a symbol of their faith in Jesus Christ and their commitment to follow Him (Acts 8:12; Acts 16:14-15). Early Christians engaged in communal prayer and the singing of hymns. While specific liturgical prayers and hymns had not yet been formalized, they would have used Jewish liturgical traditions as a foundation (Acts 2:42; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). The reading and teaching of Scripture, particularly the Old Testament, were important components of early Christian gatherings. Scripture readings were accompanied by explanations and exhortations (Acts 13:14-16; Acts 17:2-3). Early Christians gathered regularly for communal worship, often in private homes. These gatherings included various elements such as prayers, readings, the Eucharist, and fellowship (Acts 2:46-47; Acts 20:7). The laying on of hands was practiced for various purposes, including blessing, commissioning, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit. This practice is seen in the early Church, particularly in the context of ordination and the appointment of leaders (Acts 6:6; Acts 13:3; Acts 8:17).

### Christian Preaching and Incarnation Doctrine

Kerygma (Preaching) and Gospel Message: Early Christianity relied heavily on oral communication, and the core beliefs and teachings of the faith were proclaimed through kerygma, which means "preaching" or "proclamation." This oral tradition likely began in Aramaic, the common language of the region where Jesus and His disciples lived and preached. However, as Christianity spread beyond its Jewish origins and into the broader Hellenistic world, the message was also communicated in Greek, which was a widely understood language at the time. This oral proclamation laid the foundation for the written Gospels and the New Testament scriptures.Doctrine of the Incarnation: The doctrine of the Incarnation is a central Christian belief that the divine Word (Logos) became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ. This belief underscores the divinity and humanity of Jesus. While this concept is central to Christian theology, it took time to develop and articulate fully in theological terms. Early Christians believed in the Incarnation based on their experiences and understanding of Jesus, but the formal language and definitions of this doctrine developed in the following centuries, especially during the ecumenical councils.

### Leadership Structures

Christian communities were initially informal in their organization. They often formed as small gatherings of believers who came together for worship, teaching, prayer, and fellowship. These gatherings were often held in private homes due to the need for secrecy in the face of Roman persecution. While there were leaders in these communities, the roles of bishops (overseers), elders (presbyters), and deacons (servants) were not as precisely delineated as they would become in later centuries. The New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul and the Acts of the Apostles, provides some guidance on the qualifications and responsibilities of these leaders, but the structure was flexible and adapted to local needs. In the letters attributed to the apostle Paul, we see a developing understanding of leadership roles in the early Christian communities. Paul appointed elders (presbyters) in various places (e.g., Titus 1:5), and he gave instructions for the selection and behavior of deacons (1 Timothy 3). These leaders were responsible for shepherding and guiding the local Christian communities. There was no centralized ecclesiastical hierarchy as seen in later Christian traditions. Each Christian community was relatively independent and autonomous, making its own decisions under the guidance of local leaders. The apostles, including figures like Paul, played a crucial role in establishing and guiding these early Christian communities. They provided leadership, teaching, and oversight. However, the apostolic ministry was unique and eventually phased out as the Christian movement became more established.

### Ethical Living

Paul strongly objected to the requirement of male circumcision for Gentile (non-Jewish) converts to Christianity. He argued that Gentiles should not be compelled to undergo this Jewish ritual as a condition of faith in Christ. Paul also challenged the Jewish dietary laws that dictated what foods were clean and unclean. He emphasized that believers were no longer bound by these dietary restrictions and could eat all kinds of foods (Romans 14:14; 1 Corinthians 8:8). Observance of Sabbaths and Festivals: While Paul did not object to the observance of special days, instead they were a matter of personal choice and should not be imposed as obligatory on Gentile believers (Colossians 2:16). In contrast to the ritual and ceremonial commandments, Paul emphasized the importance of moral and ethical commandments that were rooted in the principles of love, faith, and righteous living. He stressed that these moral commandments were still relevant for Christians: Paul highlighted the command to love one another as the fulfillment of the Law (Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:14). He often reiterated the importance of love as the guiding principle for Christian behavior. Paul taught that believers were to follow the teachings and commandments of Jesus Christ. This included living in love and humility, seeking justice, and demonstrating compassion and forgiveness. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul outlined the "fruit of the Spirit," which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities were to characterize the lives of Christians.It's important to note that Paul's objections to certain aspects of the Jewish Law were specific to the issue of salvation. He believed that faith in Jesus Christ and the grace of God were the primary means of salvation, and that adherence to these ritual commandments was not necessary for justification. However, Paul did not dismiss the moral and ethical commandments found in the Law, emphasizing that these were still important for Christian living. His teachings contributed significantly to the development of Christian theology and ethics.

### The Resurrection

Paul emphasized that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ provided the means by which both Jews and Gentiles could be reconciled to God and become part of His covenant community. Salvation was not achieved through strict observance of the Law but by the grace of God, received through faith in Jesus Christ.

### Dietary restrictions

Abstaining from Food Sacrificed to Idols: As mentioned in Acts 15:29, early Christians were instructed to abstain from food that had been sacrificed to idols. This was to avoid any association with pagan practices and to maintain their commitment to the one true God.Abstaining from Blood: The same passage in Acts 15:29 also prohibited the consumption of blood. This restriction likely stemmed from both Jewish dietary laws found in the Torah (such as Leviticus 17:10-14) and the broader cultural understanding of the sacredness of blood.Abstaining from Meat of Strangled Animals: Acts 15:29 also specified that early Christians should not consume the meat of animals that had been strangled. This restriction was likely connected to the prohibition against consuming blood and was part of the effort to maintain purity and avoid any practices associated with pagan rituals.

### Alcoholic beverages

Wine was used during the celebration of the Eucharist (Lord's Supper or Communion) as a symbol of the blood of Christ, as instructed by Jesus during the Last Supper (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:17-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). Wine was a common beverage in the Mediterranean region during this period. It was consumed at meals, celebrations, and social gatherings. Wine was often diluted with water and served as a staple beverage, especially in the Roman world. While wine was a part of everyday life, early Christians were encouraged to consume it in moderation and with caution. This was consistent with biblical teachings on temperance and self-control (Proverbs 20:1; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 3:8; Titus 2:3). Paul warned against excessive drinking and drunkenness. They emphasized the importance of maintaining sobriety and self-discipline (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 6:10; Galatians 5:21; 1 Peter 4:3). Early Christians believed that their bodies were temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). As such, they were encouraged to take care of their physical well-being, which included avoiding overindulgence in alcoholic beverages.

### End of Times

Early Christians believed that Jesus Christ would return soon, within their lifetimes. This expectation of the imminent return of Christ is evident in various New Testament writings, including the teachings of Jesus himself (Matthew 24:36-44; Mark 13:32-37). Early Christians held a strong belief in the resurrection of the dead, which was tied to the return of Christ. They anticipated a future event in which the dead would be raised to eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:12-28; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Early Christian teachings included the concept of a final judgment in which all individuals would be held accountable for their actions. This judgment would determine their eternal destiny, either with God in heaven or separated from God (Matthew 25:31-46; Romans 2:5-16). Some early Christians expected a period of tribulation and turmoil preceding the return of Christ, during which the Messiah (Christ) would establish his kingdom and reign as the righteous ruler (Revelation 20:1-6; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12). The early Christian period saw the development of apocalyptic literature, such as the Book of Revelation. These writings often contained vivid and symbolic descriptions of end-times events, including cosmic upheavals, battles between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God. Early Christians were encouraged to live morally upright lives and be prepared for the return of Christ. They were advised to be vigilant, faithful, and morally pure in anticipation of the end times (1 Peter 4:7; 1 John 2:28) The teachings about the end times also provided hope and comfort to early Christians, especially in the face of persecution and challenges. The belief in the ultimate victory of Christ and the promise of eternal life served as sources of encouragement.

### Scriptural Authority

Use of the Old Testament: Early Christians, many of whom were Jewish, regarded the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) as authoritative and foundational to their faith. They saw the Old Testament as containing prophecies and types that pointed to the coming of Jesus Christ as the Messiah (e.g., Isaiah 53). While the writings that would later become the New Testament were still in the process of being composed, early Christian communities relied heavily on oral tradition. The teachings and sayings of Jesus, as well as stories about his life and ministry, were transmitted orally from the eyewitnesses and early apostles. Letters or epistles written by apostles and leaders of the early Christian communities held a significant position of authority. These letters, such as those written by Paul (e.g., Corinthians, Galatians) and other apostles (e.g., Peter, John), provided guidance, theology, and ethical instructions to the Christian communities.Emergence of New Testament Writings: During this period, some New Testament writings were composed, although they were not yet universally recognized as Scripture. These writings included the Pauline Epistles and possibly some Gospels. The process of collecting and recognizing these texts as authoritative Scripture continued into the 2nd century. Early Christian gatherings often included the reading and teaching of Scriptures, primarily the Old Testament. Leaders and elders would provide exhortations, explanations, and applications of these Scriptures to the life and faith of the community. The eyewitness testimony of the apostles, who had walked and ministered with Jesus, held a unique authority in the early Christian communities. Their firsthand accounts and teachings were highly regarded. The teachings and sayings of Jesus, as remembered and transmitted by the early Christian communities, were considered authoritative and served as a foundational source for Christian ethics and beliefs.

### Community Life

Communal Sharing, Early Christian communities often practiced communal sharing of possessions and resources. This practice was inspired by passages in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts (Acts 2:44-45; Acts 4:32-35). Believers would sell their possessions and distribute the proceeds to those in need, ensuring that no one among them was in want.Gatherings in Homes: Early Christian gatherings for worship, teaching, and fellowship were typically held in private homes. Due to the need for secrecy in the face of Roman persecution, meeting in homes provided a measure of safety. These gatherings included prayer, reading of Scriptures, sharing of meals (such as the Agape Feast), and the breaking of bread (Eucharist).Mutual Support: Early Christians demonstrated a strong sense of mutual support and care for one another. This was particularly important in a society where Christians faced persecution and societal ostracism. The community provided emotional, spiritual, and practical support to its members.Leadership: While leadership structures were not as formalized as they would become in later centuries, early Christian communities had leaders who served as overseers (bishops), elders (presbyters), and servants (deacons). These leaders were responsible for shepherding and guiding the community, ensuring its spiritual health, and overseeing practical matters.Hospitality: Hospitality was a central virtue in early Christian communities. Believers were encouraged to practice hospitality by welcoming strangers and fellow Christians into their homes. This practice reinforced the sense of community and care for one another.Baptism and Initiation: Baptism was a significant rite of initiation into the Christian community. New converts would be baptized as a symbol of their faith in Jesus Christ and their commitment to follow Him. Baptism served as a marker of entrance into the Christian fellowship.Sharing of Spiritual Gifts: Early Christians believed in the presence of spiritual gifts, and these gifts were often exercised within the community for the edification of all. Gifts such as prophecy, healing, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues were used in the context of community gatherings.Support for the Persecuted: Early Christian communities supported members who were persecuted for their faith. This support could include prayer, practical assistance, and efforts to secure their release from imprisonment or persecution.Exhortation and Edification: Teaching and exhortation were essential components of community life. Leaders and elders would instruct the community in the faith, provide moral guidance, and exhort members to live according to Christian principles.Eucharist (Lord's Supper): The practice of the Eucharist, also known as the Lord's Supper or Communion, was central to early Christian community life. Believers gathered to break bread and share wine in remembrance of Jesus' last meal with His disciples.

### Missionary Activity

Apostolic Missions: The apostles, including figures like Peter, Paul, John, and others, played a crucial role in early Christian missionary activity. They traveled extensively, establishing Christian communities, preaching the Gospel, and appointing local leaders.Jewish Diaspora: Early Christian missionaries initially focused on Jewish communities in the Jewish diaspora (Jewish communities living outside of Judea). They saw Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish messianic expectations and sought to spread this message to their fellow Jews.Synagogues: Early Christian missionaries often began their outreach in Jewish synagogues. They used the synagogue as a platform to proclaim Jesus as the Messiah and draw Jewish listeners to the Christian faith.Conversion of Gentiles: While early Christian missions initially targeted Jewish communities, there was a gradual shift toward the conversion of Gentiles (non-Jews). This transition marked a significant expansion of the Christian movement beyond its Jewish origins.Missionary Journeys: Missionary journeys, as documented in the Book of Acts, were common during this period. Paul's missionary journeys, for example, took him throughout the eastern Mediterranean, including regions such as Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome.Use of Letters: Early Christian leaders, including Paul, used letters (epistles) as a means of communication and instruction to distant Christian communities. These letters served as a form of missionary outreach, reinforcing Christian beliefs and practices.Martyrdom: Some early Christians, including missionaries, faced persecution and martyrdom for their faith. Their willingness to suffer and die for their beliefs served as a powerful testimony to the Christian message.Spread along Trade Routes: The Roman Empire's extensive network of roads and trade routes facilitated the spread of Christianity. Missionaries often traveled along these routes, contributing to the dissemination of the Gospel.Local Leadership: As Christian communities were established in various regions, local leaders and converts played a vital role in furthering missionary efforts. They would continue to share the Christian message with their communities.Multilingual Communication: Early Christian missionaries often had to communicate in multiple languages, including Greek, Aramaic, and Latin, to reach diverse audiences within the Roman Empire.Adaptation to Local Cultures: Missionaries sometimes adapted their message and practices to the cultural contexts of the regions they visited. This approach allowed Christianity to take root in diverse cultural settings.Conversion of Influential Figures: The conversion of influential individuals or households often had a significant impact on the success of missionary efforts. The conversion of key figures could lead to the spread of Christianity within a community or region.

### Spiritual Gifts and Charisms

Spiritual gifts, often referred to as charisms, were special abilities, talents, or powers believed to be granted by the Holy Spirit to individual Christians. These gifts were seen as divine enablements for various purposes within the Christian community.Diverse Gifts: Early Christians believed that the Holy Spirit endowed believers with a variety of gifts, including but not limited to prophecy, healing, speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues, wisdom, knowledge, faith, miracles, discernment of spirits, teaching, and serving.Role in Early Christian Communities: Spiritual gifts played a vital role in the life of early Christian communities. They were used for the edification and growth of the community, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the welfare of its members.Prophetic Gifts: The gift of prophecy was highly regarded during this period. Prophets were seen as individuals who received direct revelations from God through the Holy Spirit. Their role included speaking messages of encouragement, exhortation, and edification to the community.Healing and Miracles: The gift of healing and the ability to perform miracles were also considered important charisms. Believers who possessed these gifts were believed to be channels through which God's power was manifested for the healing of the sick and the demonstration of God's authority.Speaking in Tongues: Speaking in tongues, or glossolalia, was another spiritual gift present in early Christian communities. It involved speaking in languages unknown to the speaker but often understood by others with the same gift or through interpretation.Edification of the Church: The primary purpose of spiritual gifts was the edification or building up of the Christian community. They were to be exercised in an orderly manner during gatherings to benefit all believers.Pauline Writings: The Apostle Paul's letters contain significant teachings on spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 12-14 and Romans 12, Paul discusses the diversity of gifts, their proper use, and the importance of love as the guiding principle in their exercise.Unity in Diversity: Early Christians recognized the diversity of spiritual gifts but emphasized the unity of the body of Christ. Each believer had a role to play in the community, and all gifts were valued as contributions to the common good.Continuation of Charismatic Experiences: Early Christian writings and accounts suggest that charismatic experiences and the exercise of spiritual gifts were not limited to the apostolic era but continued in subsequent generations.Leadership Roles: Those with spiritual gifts, especially the gift of teaching or prophecy, often played leadership roles in early Christian communities. They provided guidance and instruction to the community.