The Didache, or The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, is one of the earliest extant documents outside the New Testament canon that offers a structured outline of Christian moral teaching, liturgical practice, and ecclesial order. Dated by most scholars to the late first century A.D.—approximately between A.D. 70 and 110—the Didache likely emerged from a Jewish-Christian community in Syria or Palestine, possibly in the vicinity of Antioch. Its anonymity lends it a sense of communal authorship, rather than that of a single individual, and the title’s attribution to “the twelve apostles” reflects the authority of apostolic tradition rather than direct apostolic penmanship (Holmes, The Apostolic Fathers, 2007). The document may thus be understood as an early church manual intended for catechumens and leaders alike, serving to bridge the gap between apostolic teaching and the growing needs of organized church life in the post-apostolic age.

Introduction

The text is structured in sixteen brief chapters and opens with a moral catechesis known as the “Two Ways”: the Way of Life and the Way of Death. This segment mirrors the ethical rigor of Jewish wisdom literature and early Christian exhortation (cf. Matthew 5–7; Romans 12). Following this, the Didache lays out instructions concerning baptism (ch. 7), fasting and prayer (ch. 8), and the Eucharist (chs. 9–10), marking it as one of the earliest liturgical texts in Christian history. The latter chapters (11–15) shift focus toward the regulation of traveling prophets, itinerant apostles, the appointment of local bishops and deacons, and community reconciliation. The closing chapter (16) is an eschatological exhortation, reflecting an early Christian hope in the imminent return of Christ, aligning in tone with texts like Matthew 24 and the Apocalypse.

The Didache was lost to the Western church for centuries and known only through fragments and references in patristic writings, such as those by Eusebius (Ecclesiastical History, III.25) and Athanasius (Festal Letter, 39). Its rediscovery in 1873 by Philotheos Bryennios, Metropolitan of Nicomedia, in the Jerusalem Codex (codex Hierosolymitanus), marked a watershed moment in patristic scholarship. Published in 1883, this manuscript—dated to A.D. 1056—contained not only the Didache but also the Epistle of Barnabas, the First and Second Epistles of Clement, and other early Christian texts. The recovery of the Didache thus provided a vital window into the subapostolic age, illuminating the devotional and ecclesial practices of the primitive Church during its formative years (Lake, The Apostolic Fathers, 1912).

The Didache’s significance lies not merely in its antiquity, but in its practical role within the early church as a guide for community life and ecclesial order. It evidences a time when oral tradition was being codified into formal instruction, sacramental rites were being standardized, and local church leadership was being distinguished from charismatic itinerants. It also exemplifies the church’s gradual movement from apostolic preaching toward structured episcopacy and liturgy, making it a crucial document for understanding the continuity and development of doctrine, worship, and governance. Its moral and liturgical instructions also underscore the unity between orthodoxy (right teaching) and orthopraxy (right conduct), an emphasis that continues to shape ecclesial life in both Eastern and Western traditions. As such, the Didache remains an indispensable document for those studying the roots of Christian ethics, sacramental theology, and the apostolic foundations of church order.

Citations

• Holmes, Michael W., The Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts and English Translations, 3rd ed. (Baker Academic, 2007).
• Eusebius of Caesarea, Ecclesiastical History, III.25.
• Athanasius of Alexandria, Festal Letter 39 (c. 367 A.D.).
• Lake, Kirsopp, The Apostolic Fathers, Loeb Classical Library (Harvard University Press, 1912).
• Bryennios, Philotheos, ed., Didache ton Dodeka Apostolon (Constantinople, 1883).

The DIDACHE

The Didache (Teaching of the Twelve Apostles)
Translated by J.B. Lightfoot (1885)

– THE WAY OF LIFE –

Chapter 1

There are two ways, one of life and one of death; but a great difference between the two ways.^a The way of life, then, is this: First, thou shalt love God who made thee; second, thy neighbour as thyself;^b and all things whatsoever thou wouldst should not occur to thee, do not also to another.^c

And of these sayings the teaching is this: Bless them that curse you,^d and pray for your enemies, and fast for them that persecute you.^e For what thank is there, if ye love them that love you?^f Do not also the Gentiles do the same?^g But do ye love them that hate you;^h and ye shall not have an enemy.ⁱ

Abstain thou from fleshly and bodily lusts.^j If one give thee a blow upon thy right cheek, turn to him the other also;^k and thou shalt be perfect.^l If one impress thee to go with him one mile, go with him twain.^m

If one take away thy cloak, give him also thy coat.ⁿ If one take from thee thine own,^o ask it not back,^p for indeed thou art not able.^q Give to every one that asketh thee, and ask it not back;^r for the Father willeth that from our own blessings we should give to all. Blessed is he that giveth according to the commandment; for he is guiltless.

Woe to him that receiveth; for if one having need receiveth, he is guiltless; but he that receiveth not having need shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what, and coming into straits he shall be examined concerning the things which he hath done, and he shall not escape thence until he pay the last farthing.^s

But also now concerning this, it hath been said, Let thine alms sweat into thy hands, until thou know to whom thou shouldst give.

ᵃ Jer. 21:8, Matt. 7:13. ᵇ Lev. 19:18, Matt. 22:37–39. ᶜ Matt. 7:12. ᵈ Luke 6:28, Matt. 5:44. ᵉ Matt. 5:44, Luke 6:27. ᶠ Luke 6:32, Matt. 5:46. ᵍ Matt. 5:47. ʰ Luke 6:27, Matt. 5:44. ⁱ Rom. 12:18–21. ʲ 1 Pet. 2:11, Gal. 5:16. ᵏ Matt. 5:39, Luke 6:29. ˡ Matt. 5:48. ᵐ Matt. 5:41. ⁿ Matt. 5:40, Luke 6:29. ᵒ Matt. 5:42a. ᵖ Luke 6:30. ^q 1 Cor. 6:7. ʳ Matt. 5:42, Luke 6:30. ˢ Matt. 5:26, Luke 12:59.

Chapter 1 in Modern Text:
There are two ways, one of life and one of death; but a great difference between the two ways. The way of life, then, is this: First, you shall love God who made you; second, your neighbour as yourself; and all things whatsoever you would should not occur to you, do not also do to another. And of these sayings the teaching is this: Bless those who curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for those who persecute you. For what reward is there, if you love those who love you? Do not also the Gentiles do the same? But love those who hate you, and you shall not have an enemy. Abstain from fleshly and worldly lusts. If someone gives you a blow upon your right cheek, turn to him the other also, and you shall be perfect. If someone impresses you for one mile, go with him two. If someone takes away your cloak, give him also your coat. If someone takes from you what is yours, ask it not back, for indeed you are not able. Give to every one that asks you, and ask it not back; for the Father wills that to all should be given of our own blessings (free gifts). Happy is he that gives according to the commandment; for he is guiltless. Woe to him that receives; for if one having need receives, he is guiltless; but he that receives not having need, shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what, and, coming into straits (confinement), he shall be examined concerning the things which he has done, and he shall not escape thence until he pay back the last farthing. Matthew 5:26 But also now concerning this, it has been said, Let your alms sweat in your hands, until you know to whom you should give.

Chapter 2

And the second commandment of the Teaching;

Thou shalt not kill [murder].^a

Thou shalt not commit adultery.^b

Thou shalt not corrupt boys.^c

Thou shalt not commit fornication.^d

Thou shalt not steal.^e

Thou shalt not use magic.^f

Thou shalt not use philtres [practice sorcery or witchcraft].^g

Thou shalt not slay thy child by abortion, nor kill that which is begotten.

Thou shalt not covet the things of thy neighbour.^h

Thou shalt not forswear thyself.ⁱ

Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not speak evil.^j

Thou shalt not bear a grudge.^k

Thou shalt not be double-minded nor double-tongued; for to be double-tongued is the snare of death.^l

Thy speech shall not be false, nor empty, but fulfilled by deed.

Thou shalt not be covetous,^m nor rapacious, nor a hypocrite, nor evil disposed, nor haughty. Thou shalt not take evil counsel against thy neighbor.

Thou shalt not hate any man; but some thou shalt reprove, and concerning some thou shalt pray, and some thou shalt love more than thy own life.ⁿ

ᵃ Ex. 20:13, Deut. 5:17. ᵇ Ex. 20:14, Matt. 5:27. ᶜ Lev. 18:22, Rom. 1:27, 1 Cor. 6:9. ᵈ 1 Cor. 6:18, Gal. 5:19. ᵉ Ex. 20:15, Eph. 4:28. ᶠ Deut. 18:10, Acts 8:9. ᵍ Gal. 5:20, Rev. 21:8. ʰ Ex. 20:17, Rom. 13:9. ⁱ Lev. 19:12, Matt. 5:33–37. ʲ Ex. 20:16, Tit. 3:2, Jas. 4:11. ᵏ Lev. 19:18. ˡ Jas. 1:8, Sirach 5:9–10 (LXX). ᵐ Luke 12:15, Eph. 5:3. ⁿ Lev. 19:17, Matt. 5:44, Rom. 12:9–10.

Chapter 2 in Modern Text:
And the second commandment of the Teaching; You shall not commit murder, you shall not commit adultery, Exodus 20:13-14 you shall not commit pederasty, you shall not commit fornication, you shall not steal, Exodus 20:15 you shall not practice magic, you shall not practice witchcraft, you shall not murder a child by abortion nor kill that which is begotten. You shall not covet the things of your neighbour, Exodus 20:17 you shall not forswear yourself, Matthew 5:34 you shall not bear false witness, Exodus 20:16 you shall not speak evil, you shall bear no grudge. You shall not be double-minded nor double-tongued; for to be double-tongued is a snare of death. Your speech shall not be false, nor empty, but fulfilled by deed. You shall not be covetous, nor rapacious, nor a hypocrite, nor evil disposed, nor haughty. You shall not take evil counsel against your neighbour. You shall not hate any man; but some you shall reprove, and concerning some you shall pray, and some you shall love more than your own life.

Chapter 3

My child, flee from every evil thing, and from every likeness of it. Be not prone to anger, for anger leadeth to murder; nor jealous, nor contentious, nor passionate; for of all these things murders are begotten.

My child, be not a lustful one, for lust leadeth to fornication; nor a filthy talker, nor of lofty eye; for of all these things adulteries are begotten.

My child, be not an observer of omens, since it leadeth to idolatry; nor an enchanter, nor an astrologer, nor a purifier, nor be willing to look at these things; for from all these idolatry is begotten.

My child, be not a liar, since a lie leadeth to theft; nor money-loving, nor vainglorious; for from all these thefts are begotten.

My child, be not murmuring, since it leadeth to blasphemy; neither self-willed nor evil-minded, for from all these blasphemies are begotten. But be thou meek, for the meek shall inherit the earth.^a

Be long-suffering and pitiful and guileless and gentle and good and always trembling at the words which thou hast heard.^b

Thou shalt not exalt thyself, nor give over-confidence to thy soul. Thy soul shall not be joined with lofty ones,^c but with just and lowly ones shall it have its intercourse.

The workings that befall thee receive as good, knowing that apart from God nothing cometh to pass.

ᵃ Matt. 5:5, Ps. 37:11. ᵇ Gal. 5:22–23, Isa. 66:2, Phil. 2:15. ᶜ Rom. 12:16, Ps. 138:6.

Chapter 3 in Modern Text:
My child, flee from every evil thing, and from every likeness of it. Be not prone to anger, for anger leads the way to murder; neither jealous, nor quarrelsome, nor of hot temper; for out of all these murders are engendered. My child, be not a lustful one; for lust leads the way to fornication; neither a filthy talker, nor of lofty eye; for out of all these adulteries are engendered. My child, be not an observer of omens, since it leads the way to idolatry; neither an enchanter, nor an astrologer, nor a purifier, nor be willing to look at these things; for out of all these idolatry is engendered. My child, be not a liar, since a lie leads the way to theft; neither money-loving, nor vainglorious, for out of all these thefts are engendered. My child, be not a murmurer, since it leads the way to blasphemy; neither self-willed nor evil-minded, for out of all these blasphemies are engendered. But be meek, since the meek shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5 Be long-suffering and pitiful and guileless and gentle and good and always trembling at the words which you have heard. You shall not exalt yourself, Luke 18:14 nor give over-confidence to your soul. Your soul shall not be joined with lofty ones, but with just and lowly ones shall it have its intercourse. The workings that befall you receive as good, knowing that apart from God nothing comes to pass.

Chapter 4

My child, him that speaketh to thee the word of God remember night and day;^a and thou shalt honour him as the Lord; for in the place whence lordly rule is uttered, there is the Lord.

And thou shalt seek out day by day the faces of the saints, in order that thou mayest rest upon their words.

Thou shalt not long for division, but shalt bring contending parties to peace. Thou shalt judge righteously,^b thou shalt not respect persons in reproving for transgressions.

Thou shalt not be undecided whether it shall be or no.

Be not a stretcher forth of the hands to receive and a drawer of them back to give.

If thou hast aught, thou shalt give by thy hands a ransom for thy sins.

Thou shalt not hesitate to give, nor murmur when thou givest; for thou shalt know who is the good repayer of the hire.

Thou shalt not turn away from him that is in want, but shalt share all things with thy brother, and shalt not say that they are thine own.^c

For if ye are partakers in that which is immortal, how much more in things which are mortal?
Thou shalt not remove thy hand from thy son or from thy daughter, but from their youth shalt teach them the fear of God.

Thou shalt not command thy bondservant or thine handmaid in thy bitterness, who trust in the same God, lest perchance they shall not fear God who is over both; for he cometh not to call according to the outward appearance, but unto them whom the Spirit hath prepared.

And ye bondmen shall be subject to your masters as to a type of God, in modesty and fear.^d
Thou shalt hate all hypocrisy and everything which is not pleasing to the Lord.

Do thou in no wise forsake the commandments of the Lord; but thou shalt keep what thou hast received, neither adding thereto nor taking away therefrom.^e

In the church thou shalt acknowledge thy transgressions, and thou shalt not come near for thy prayer with an evil conscience.

This is the way of life.

ᵃ Heb. 13:7, 1 Thess. 5:12–13. ᵇ Lev. 19:15, John 7:24, Zech. 8:16. ᶜ Deut. 15:7–11, Acts 4:32, 1 John 3:17. ᵈ Eph. 6:5–9, Col. 3:22–25. ᵉ Deut. 4:2, Rev. 22:18–19.

Chapter 4 in Modern Text:
My child, him that speaks to you the word of God remember night and day; and you shall honour him as the Lord; for in the place whence lordly rule is uttered, there is the Lord. And you shall seek out day by day the faces of the saints, in order that you may rest upon their words. You shall not long for division, but shall bring those who contend to peace. You shall judge righteously, you shall not respect persons in reproving for transgressions. You shall not be undecided whether it shall be or no. Be not a stretcher forth of the hands to receive and a drawer of them back to give. If you have anything, through your hands you shall give ransom for your sins. You shall not hesitate to give, nor murmur when you give; for you shall know who is the good repayer of the hire. You shall not turn away from him that is in want, but you shall share all things with your brother, and shall not say that they are your own; for if you are partakers in that which is immortal, how much more in things which are mortal? You shall not remove your hand from your son or from your daughter, but from their youth shall teach them the fear of God. Ephesians 6:4 You shall not enjoin anything in your bitterness upon your bondman or maidservant, who hope in the same God, lest ever they shall fear not God who is over both; Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1 for he comes not to call according to the outward appearance, but unto them whom the Spirit has prepared. And you bondmen shall be subject to your masters as to a type of God, in modesty and fear. Ephesians 6:5; Colossians 3:22 You shall hate all hypocrisy and everything which is not pleasing to the Lord. Forsake in no way the commandments of the Lord; but you shall keep what you have received, neither adding thereto nor taking away therefrom . Deuteronomy 12:32 In the church you shall acknowledge your transgressions, and you shall not come near for your prayer with an evil conscience. This is the way of life.

– THE WAY OF DEATH –

Chapter 5

But the way of death is this. First of all it is evil and full of curse; murders, adulteries, lusts, fornications, thefts, idolatries, magic arts, witchcrafts, rapines, false witnessings, hypocrisies, double-heartedness, deceit, haughtiness, depravity, self-will, greediness, filthy talking, jealousy, over-confidence, loftiness, boastfulness;^a

Persecutors of the good, hating truth, loving a lie, not knowing a reward for righteousness, not cleaving to good nor to righteous judgment, watching not for that which is good but for that which is evil; from whom meekness and patience are far, loving vanities,^b pursuing revenge, not pitying a poor man, not laboring for the afflicted, not knowing Him that made them, murderers of children, destroyers of the handiwork of God, turning away from him that is in want, afflicting him that is distressed, advocates of the rich, lawless judges of the poor, utter sinners. Be delivered, children, from all these.

ᵃ Gal. 5:19–21, 1 Cor. 6:9–10, Rev. 21:8. ᵇ Rom. 1:28–32, 2 Tim. 3:2–4, Ps. 4:2, Isa. 5:20.

Chapter 5 in Modern Text:
And the way of death is this: First of all it is evil and full of curse: murders, adulteries, lusts, fornications, thefts, idolatries, magic arts, witchcrafts, rapines, false witnessings, hypocrisies, double-heartedness, deceit, haughtiness, depravity, self-will, greediness, filthy talking, jealousy, over-confidence, loftiness, boastfulness; persecutors of the good, hating truth, loving a lie, not knowing a reward for righteousness, not cleaving to good nor to righteous judgment, watching not for that which is good, but for that which is evil; from whom meekness and endurance are far, loving vanities, pursuing requital, not pitying a poor man, not labouring for the afflicted, not knowing Him that made them, murderers of children, destroyers of the handiwork of God, turning away from him that is in want, afflicting him that is distressed, advocates of the rich, lawless judges of the poor, utter sinners. Be delivered, children, from all these.

Chapter 6

See that no one cause thee to err from this way of the Teaching, since apart from God it teacheth thee.
For if thou art able to bear all the yoke of the Lord, thou wilt be perfect; but if thou art not able, what thou art able, that do.^a

– INSTRUCTION FOR CATECHUMENS –

Concerning Food

And concerning food, bear what thou art able; but against that which is sacrificed to idols be exceedingly on thy guard; for it is the service of dead gods.^b

ᵃ Matt. 11:29–30, Matt. 19:21, 2 Cor. 8:12. ᵇ Acts 15:29, 1 Cor. 10:19–21, Ps. 106:28.

Chapter 6 in Modern Text:
See that no one cause you to err from this way of the Teaching, since apart from God it teaches you. For if you are able to bear all the yoke of the Lord, you will be perfect; but if you are not able, what you are able that do. And concerning food, bear what you are able; but against that which is sacrificed to idols be exceedingly on your guard; for it is the service of dead gods.

Chapter 7

Concerning Baptism

And concerning baptism, baptize ye thus. Having first rehearsed all these things, baptize in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit in living water.^a

But if thou hast not living water, baptize into other water; and if thou canst not in cold, then in warm. But if thou hast neither, pour water thrice upon the head in the Name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit. But before the baptism let the baptizer and him that is to be baptized fast, and any others also who are able; and thou shalt order him that is to be baptized to fast a day or two before.

ᵃ Matt. 28:19, John 3:5, Acts 8:36–38.

Chapter 7 in Modern Text:
And concerning baptism, baptize this way: Having first said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19 in living water. But if you have not living water, baptize into other water; and if you can not in cold, in warm. But if you have not either, pour out water thrice upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit. But before the baptism let the baptizer fast, and the baptized, and whatever others can; but you shall order the baptized to fast one or two days before.

Chapter 8

Concerning Fasting

But let not your fasts be with the hypocrites;^a for they fast on the second and the fifth day of the week; but do ye keep your fast on the fourth day and on the Preparation (Friday).

Concerning Prayer

Neither pray ye as the hypocrites,^b but as the Lord commanded in His Gospel, thus pray ye:

“Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so also on earth. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debt, as we also forgive our debtors. And bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for Thine is the power and the glory forever.^c ” Thrice in the day, thus pray.

ᵃ Matt. 6:16, Luke 18:12. ᵇ Matt. 6:5. ᶜ Matt. 6:9–13, Luke 11:2–4.

Chapter 8 in Modern Text:
But let not your fasts be with the hypocrites; Matthew 6:16 for they fast on the second and fifth day of the week; but fast on the fourth day and the Preparation (Friday). Neither pray as the hypocrites; but as the Lord commanded in His Gospel, thus pray: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. Give us today our daily (needful) bread, and forgive us our debt as we also forgive our debtors. And bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one (or, evil); for Yours is the power and the glory forever. Thrice in the day thus pray.

Chapter 9

Concerning The Eucharist

But as touching the eucharistic thanksgiving^a give ye thanks thus.

First, concerning the cup: We thank Thee, our Father, for the holy vine of David Thy servant^b, which Thou madest known to us through Jesus Thy Servant;^c to Thee be the glory forever.

And concerning the broken bread: We thank Thee, our Father, for the life and knowledge which Thou madest known to us through Jesus Thy Servant; to Thee be the glory forever. Even as this broken bread was scattered over the hills, and was gathered together and became one, so let Thy Church be gathered together from the ends of the earth into Thy kingdom; for Thine is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ forever.

But let no one eat or drink of your Eucharist, but they who have been baptized into the Name of the Lord; for concerning this also the Lord hath said, Give not that which is holy to the dogs.^d

ᵃ 1 Cor. 10:16, 1 Thess. 5:18. ᵇ Isa. 11:1, Jer. 23:5. ᶜ John 17:3, Matt. 11:27. ᵈ Matt. 7:6.

Chapter 9 in Modern Text:
Now concerning the Thanksgiving (Eucharist), thus give thanks. First, concerning the cup: We thank you, our Father, for the holy vine of David Your servant, which You made known to us through Jesus Your Servant; to You be the glory forever. And concerning the broken bread: We thank You, our Father, for the life and knowledge which You made known to us through Jesus Your Servant; to You be the glory forever. Even as this broken bread was scattered over the hills, and was gathered together and became one, so let Your Church be gathered together from the ends of the earth into Your kingdom; for Yours is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ forever. But let no one eat or drink of your Thanksgiving (Eucharist), but they who have been baptized into the name of the Lord; for concerning this also the Lord has said, Give not that which is holy to the dogs. Matthew 7:6

Chapter 10

But after ye are filled, thus give thanks:

We thank Thee, holy Father, for Thy holy Name which Thou didst cause to tabernacle in our hearts,^a and for the knowledge and faith and immortality, which Thou madest known to us through Jesus Thy Servant; to Thee be the glory forever.

Thou, Master Almighty, didst create all things for Thy Name’s sake; and didst give food and drink to men for enjoyment, that they might render thanks to Thee; but didst bestow upon us spiritual food and drink and eternal life through Thy Servant.

Before all things we thank Thee that Thou art mighty; to Thee be the glory forever.

Remember, Lord, Thy Church,^b to deliver it from all evil and to perfect it in Thy love; and gather it from the four winds,^c even the Church which has been sanctified, into Thy kingdom which Thou hast prepared for it; for Thine is the power and the glory forever.

Let grace come, and let this world pass away.^d Hosanna to the God of David.^e If anyone is holy, let him come; if anyone is not, let him repent. Maranatha.^f Amen.

But permit the prophets to make Thanksgiving as much as they desire.

Concerning The Ointment

And concerning the ointment, give thanks as follows: We give you thanks, our Father, for the fragrant ointment which you have made known to use through your Son Jesus. Yours is the glory unto ages of ages. Amen.

ᵃ John 1:14, 2 Cor. 4:6. ᵇ Eph. 5:25–27, Acts 20:28. ᶜ Matt. 24:31, Zech. 2:6. ᵈ 1 Cor. 7:31, 2 Pet. 3:10–13. ᵉ Matt. 21:9, Ps. 118:25–26. ᶠ 1 Cor. 16:22, Rev. 22:20.

Chapter 10 in Modern Text:
But after you are filled, thus give thanks: We thank You, holy Father, for Your holy name which You caused to tabernacle in our hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality, which You made known to us through Jesus Your Servant; to You be the glory forever. You, Master almighty, created all things for Your name’s sake; You gave food and drink to men for enjoyment, that they might give thanks to You; but to us You freely gave spiritual food and drink and life eternal through Your Servant. Before all things we thank You that You are mighty; to You be the glory forever. Remember, Lord, Your Church, to deliver it from all evil and to make it perfect in Your love, and gather it from the four winds, sanctified for Your kingdom which You have prepared for it; for Yours is the power and the glory forever. Let grace come, and let this world pass away. Hosanna to the God (Son) of David! If any one is holy, let him come; if any one is not so, let him repent. Maranatha. Amen. But permit the prophets to make Thanksgiving as much as they desire.

– LIFE IN THE COMMUNITY –

Chapter 11

The Approved Teacher

Whoever comes and teaches you all these things that have been taught before, receive him. But if the teacher himself turns aside and teaches a different doctrine that subverts what has been taught before, do not listen to him.^a If his teaching fosters righteousness and the knowedge of the Lord, receive him as the Lord.^b

Apostles and Prophets

But concerning the apostles and prophets,^c so do ye according to the ordinance of the Gospel.^d
Let every apostle, when he cometh to you, be received as the Lord.^e But he shall not abide more than a single day, or if there be need, a second likewise; but if he abide three days, he is a false prophet. And when he departeth let the apostle receive nothing save bread, until he findeth shelter; but if he ask money, he is a false prophet.^f

And any prophet speaking in the Spirit ye shall not try neither discern; for every sin shall be forgiven, but this sin shall not be forgiven.^g But not every one that speaketh in the Spirit is a prophet, but only if he have the ways of the Lord. From their ways therefore shall the false prophet and the prophet be known.

And no prophet when he ordereth a table in the Spirit shall eat of it; otherwise he is a false prophet.

And every prophet teaching the truth, if he doeth not what he teacheth, is a false prophet.

And every prophet, approved and found true, if he doeth things for the mystery of the Church, which teacheth not others to do as he doeth, shall not be judged of you; for with God he hath his judgment; for so also did the ancient prophets.

But whosoever shall say in the Spirit, Give me money, or any other things, ye shall not listen to him;^h but if he bid you give for others’ sake who are in need, let no man judge him.

ᵃ Gal. 1:8–9, 2 John 1:10. ᵇ Matt. 10:40, John 13:20. ᶜ 1 Cor. 12:28, Eph. 4:11. ᵈ Matt. 10:5–15, Luke 10:1–9. ᵉ Matt. 10:40, John 13:20. ᶠ Matt. 10:8–10, Acts 20:33–35. ᵍ Matt. 12:31–32, Mark 3:28–29. ʰ 2 Pet. 2:1–3, 1 Tim. 6:5.

Chapter 11 in Modern Text:
Whosoever, therefore, comes and teaches you all these things that have been said before, receive him. But if the teacher himself turn and teach another doctrine to the destruction of this, hear him not; but if he teach so as to increase righteousness and the knowledge of the Lord, receive him as the Lord. But concerning the apostles and prophets, according to the decree of the Gospel, thus do. Let every apostle that comes to you be received as the Lord. But he shall not remain except one day; but if there be need, also the next; but if he remain three days, he is a false prophet. And when the apostle goes away, let him take nothing but bread until he lodges; but if he ask money, he is a false prophet. And every prophet that speaks in the Spirit you shall neither try nor judge; for every sin shall be forgiven, but this sin shall not be forgiven. But not every one that speaks in the Spirit is a prophet; but only if he hold the ways of the Lord. Therefore from their ways shall the false prophet and the prophet be known. And every prophet who orders a meal in the Spirit eats not from it, except indeed he be a false prophet; and every prophet who teaches the truth, if he do not what he teaches, is a false prophet. And every prophet, proved true, working unto the mystery of the Church in the world, yet not teaching others to do what he himself does, shall not be judged among you, for with God he has his judgment; for so did also the ancient prophets. But whoever says in the Spirit, Give me money, or something else, you shall not listen to him; but if he says to you to give for others’ sake who are in need, let no one judge him.

Chapter 12

Hospitality to Travelers

But let every one that cometh in the name of the Lord be received,^a and then when ye have tested him ye shall know him, for ye shall have understanding on the right hand and on the left. If he that cometh is a passer-by, assist him as far as ye are able; but he shall not abide with you more than two or three days, if it be necessary. But if he willeth to abide with you, being an artisan, let him work and eat;^b But if he hath no trade, according to your understanding provide that he shall not live idle among you as a Christian. But if he will not do so, he is a Christ-monger. Watch that ye keep aloof from such.^c

ᵃ Matt. 10:40–41, Rom. 15:7. ᵇ 2 Thess. 3:10–12, Acts 18:3. ᶜ Rom. 16:17–18, 2 Thess. 3:6.

Chapter 12 in Modern Text:
But let every one that comes in the name of the Lord be received, and afterward you shall prove and know him; for you shall have understanding right and left. If he who comes is a wayfarer, assist him as far as you are able; but he shall not remain with you, except for two or three days, if need be. But if he wills to abide with you, being an artisan, let him work and eat; 2 Thessalonians 3:10 but if he has no trade, according to your understanding see to it that, as a Christian, he shall not live with you idle. But if he wills not to do, he is a Christ-monger. Watch that you keep aloof from such.

Chapter 13

Supporting God’s Ministers

But every true prophet that willeth to abide among you is worthy of his support. So also a true teacher is himself worthy, as the workman, of his support.^a Every firstfruit then of the products of the wine-press and threshing-floor, of oxen and of sheep, thou shalt take and give to the prophets; for they are your high priests.^b But if ye have not a prophet, give it unto the poor.

If thou makest a baking of bread, take the firstfruit and give according to the commandment. Likewise, when thou openest a jar of wine or of oil, take the firstfruit and give to the prophets; Yea, of money and raiment and every possession take the firstfruit, as it may seem good to thee, and give according to the commandment.

ᵃ Matt. 10:10, Luke 10:7, 1 Tim. 5:17–18. ᵇ Num. 18:8–12, Deut. 18:1–5.

Chapter 13 in Modern Text:
But every true prophet that wills to abide among you is worthy of his support. So also a true teacher is himself worthy, as the workman, of his support. Matthew 10:10; cf. Luke 10:7 Every first-fruit, therefore, of the products of wine-press and threshing-floor, of oxen and of sheep, you shall take and give to the prophets, for they are your high priests. But if you have not a prophet, give it to the poor. If you make a batch of dough, take the first-fruit and give according to the commandment. So also when you open a jar of wine or of oil, take the first-fruit and give it to the prophets; and of money (silver) and clothing and every possession, take the first-fruit, as it may seem good to you, and give according to the commandment.

Chapter 14

The Sacrifice

And on the Lord’s day of the Lord come together^a and break bread and give thanks, after having confessed your transgressions, that your sacrifice may be pure. But let no one that is at variance with his fellow come together with you, until they be reconciled, that your sacrifice be not profaned;^b For this is that which was spoken by the Lord: In every place and time offer to Me a pure sacrifice;^c for I am a great King, saith the Lord, and My name is wonderful among the nations.^d

ᵃ Acts 20:7, 1 Cor. 16:2, Rev. 1:10. ᵇ Matt. 5:23–24. ᶜ Mal. 1:11, Heb. 13:15. ᵈ Mal. 1:14.

Chapter 14 in Modern Text:
But every Lord’s day gather yourselves together, and break bread, and give thanksgiving after having confessed your transgressions, that your sacrifice may be pure. But let no one that is at variance with his fellow come together with you, until they be reconciled, that your sacrifice may not be profaned. For this is that which was spoken by the Lord: In every place and time offer to me a pure sacrifice; for I am a great King, says the Lord, and my name is wonderful among the nations.

Chapter 15

Church Leaders

Appoint for yourselves therefore bishops and deacons worthy of the Lord, men meek and not covetous, and faithful^a and approved; for unto you they also minister the ministry of the prophets and teachers. Therefore despise them not; for they are your honored ones together with the prophets and teachers.^b

Community Discipline

And reprove one another, not in anger but in peace, as ye have it in the Gospel; and let no one speak to any that has gone wrong towards his neighbour, nor let him hear a word from you, until he repent.^c But your prayers and alms and all your deeds so do, as ye have it in the Gospel of our Lord.^d

ᵃ 1 Tim. 3:1–13, Tit. 1:5–9. ᵇ 1 Thess. 5:12–13, Heb. 13:17. ᶜ Matt. 18:15–17, Luke 17:3. ᵈ Matt. 6:1–4, Matt. 6:5–6.

Chapter 15 in Modern Text:
Therefore, appoint for yourselves bishops and deacons worthy of the Lord, men meek, and not lovers of money, 1 Timothy 3:4 and truthful and proven; for they also render to you the service of prophets and teachers. Despise them not therefore, for they are your honoured ones, together with the prophets and teachers. And reprove one another, not in anger, but in peace, as you have it in the Gospel; Matthew 18:15-17 but to every one that acts amiss against another, let no one speak, nor let him hear anything from you until he repents. But your prayers and alms and all your deeds so do, as you have it in the Gospel of our Lord.

– THE LORD IS COMING –

Chapter 16

Watch for your life; let your lamps not be quenched and your loins not be loosed,^a but be ye ready; for ye know not the hour in which our Lord cometh.^b

But be ye often gathered together, seeking the things which are befitting to your souls; for the whole time of your faith shall not profit you, if ye be not made perfect in the last time.^c For in the last days the false prophets and the corrupters shall be multiplied,^d and the sheep shall be turned into wolves, and love shall be turned into hate;^e

For when lawlessness increaseth, they shall hate and persecute and betray one another,^f and then shall appear the world-deceiver as Son of God, and shall do signs and wonders,^g and the earth shall be delivered into his hands, and he shall do iniquitous things which have not been since the beginning.^h

Then shall the creation of men come into the fire of trial,ⁱ and many shall be made to stumble and shall perish;^j but they that endure in their faith shall be saved from under the curse itself.^k

And then shall appear the signs of the truth; first the sign of an outspreading in heaven;^l then the sign of the sound of the trumpet;^m and third, the resurrection of the dead—ⁿ

Yet not of all, but as it is said:

The Lord shall come and all His saints with Him.ⁿ
Then shall the world see the Lord coming
upon the clouds of heaven with power
and dominion^o to repay each man
according to his works, with
justice, before all men
and the angels.
AMEN.

ᵃ Luke 12:35, Matt. 25:1–13. ᵇ Matt. 24:42–44, Mark 13:33–37. ᶜ Heb. 10:25, Phil. 2:12, Matt. 24:13. ᵈ Matt. 24:11, 2 Pet. 2:1. ᵉ Matt. 24:10–12. ᶠ Mark 13:12–13, Luke 21:16–17. ᵍ 2 Thess. 2:3–9, Matt. 24:24. ʰ Dan. 7:25, Rev. 13:5–7. ᶦ 1 Pet. 4:12, Zech. 13:9. ʲ Matt. 24:10, Matt. 13:21. ᵏ Matt. 10:22, Matt. 24:13. ˡ Matt. 24:30. ᵐ Matt. 24:31, 1 Thess. 4:16. ⁿ 1 Thess. 4:16–17, Zech. 14:5. ᵒ Matt. 16:27, Matt. 25:31–32, Rev. 22:12.

Chapter 16 in Modern Text:
Watch for your life’s sake. Let not your lamps be quenched, nor your loins unloosed; but be ready, for you know not the hour in which our Lord comes. Matthew 24:42 But often shall you come together, seeking the things which are befitting to your souls: for the whole time of your faith will not profit you, if you be not made perfect in the last time. For in the last days false prophets and corrupters shall be multiplied, and the sheep shall be turned into wolves, and love shall be turned into hate; Matthew 24:11-12 for when lawlessness increases, they shall hate and persecute and betray one another, Matthew 24:10 and then shall appear the world-deceiver as the Son of God, and shall do signs and wonders, and the earth shall be delivered into his hands, and he shall do iniquitous things which have never yet come to pass since the beginning. Then shall the creation of men come into the fire of trial, and many shall be made to stumble and shall perish; but they that endure in their faith shall be saved from under the curse itself. And then shall appear the signs of the truth; first, the sign of an outspreading in heaven; then the sign of the sound of the trumpet; and the third, the resurrection of the dead; yet not of all, but as it is said: The Lord shall come and all His saints with Him. Then shall the world see the Lord coming upon the clouds of heaven.