Ancient History

It seems in the church (for sake of brevity, I am assuming church universal--all who designate themselves Christian) two types of folks exist, among many other possible polarizations: 1) Those who are content with the historical status of their church/denomination (that is, they feel it most closely resembles the "early church" of the New Testament, whether in structure, mission, liturgy, tradition, etc.), and 2) those who do not.

It seems impossible that any modern group is mirror reflection of the ancient group that once rubbed shoulders with Paul, John of Patmos, and the physician Luke, so it encourages me to come across the latter group. This holy discontent is indicative of a desire for truth, and in most cases a commitment to personal growth and a missional mindset.

Most often, when talking to such folks I am directed to a number of books aimed at guiding me to that which most resembles the early church. More often than not, I am familiar with the authors and have even read many of their works. But what always gives me a chuckle, is that these authors are always modern authors, most no more than twenty years older than myself. While there is nothing wrong with reading such modern works, it seems like the last place to begin a search on origins. Shouldn't the search begin at the origin?

Of course the patented answer is, "yes, that's what scripture is for." But since scripture is not a comprehensive history of the early church, I do believe it alone cannot completely fill in all the ancestoral blanks...that is why any number of people read anything spiritual in nature outside of scripture, whether it be J. Vernon McGee or Donald Miller.

So why not broaden our scope. Stop putting sole stock in an author 2000 years separated from that elusive early church? Why not read the works of Polycarp, who was tutored by John, the disciple of Christ, or Irenaeus, Polycarp's understudy? Logic seems to indicate that the early church fathers stand to be much more veracious in painting a picture of what Christianity looked like at its inception.

So, put down that copy of Blue Like Jazz (which I read and enjoyed), and pick up the First Epistle of Clement. Here you will find a nearly comprehensive translation of their works, free, in electronic format, downloadable in PDF or Word format. This is a great resource, and I hope a few check it out.

P.S. Apparently Barak Obama employed the ever degrading middle finger insult to Hilary Clinton. Whether it's true or not is irrelevant...every one loves a rebelliously spicy campaign.