The Didache
An early church manual on the two ways, sacramental life, ministry, and readiness for the Lord's coming.
17 sections17 paragraphs
Read full textApostolic Writings
The Didache
1st-2nd century - Eastern Mediterranean
Shared Catholic/Orthodoxcatholicorthodoxcatechesisbaptismeucharistchurch-order
The Didache is not a personal letter but an early church manual. It is one of the clearest windows into practical Christian catechesis, worship, and church discipline near the apostolic period.
Start Here
How to read The Didache
The Didache is a short window into early catechesis, baptism, fasting, prayer, Eucharistic discipline, and community order.
Suggested Reading Order
- 1The DidacheStart here for the best entry point.
Key Doctrines And Themes
Two Ways
Christian life is framed as the way of life versus the way of death.
Catechesis
Doctrine is joined to moral training and worship practice.
Eucharistic discipline
Communion belongs inside a formed and baptized community.
Tradition Lens
Catholic
Important for baptism, Eucharistic discipline, fasting, and church order.
Orthodox
Important for worship, fasting rhythm, and communal moral formation.
Protestant
Important for early discipleship, prayer, ethics, and church practice.
Scripture And Terms
Scripture connections
Matthew 5-7Matthew 6Matthew 28Acts 21 Corinthians 11
Catechesis
Instruction that prepares believers for faithful Christian life and worship.
Eucharist
The Church's thanksgiving meal centered on Christ.
1st-2nd century