The First Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians

This episode consists of the Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians. This letter was very likely written between AD 68 and 97 by Clement, a disciple of Paul possibly referenced in the Bible in Philippians 4 verse 3. As such, this represents one of the earliest Christian writings outside of the Bible.

In many ways listening to this reminds me of Paul’s epistles to the Corinthians. Like Paul, Clement appeals heavily to scripture and writes not necessarily to teach doctrine but to encourage the Corinthians to live up to the call they have in Christ. The letter was penned in response to a report of sedition in the Church and, in a strange way, it is comforting to know that the earliest Christian communities struggled to maintain faith and unity as we do today.

If you would like to read more of the writings of the Early Christian Fathers, please visit ccel.org to view the full collection.