Clement of Alexandria’s Exhortation to the Heathen

Clement of Alexandria was one of the most well-read of the Early Church Fathers. Little is known regarding Clement’s life before becoming a Christian, beyond the supposition that he was born around A.D. 150 in Alexandria or Athens. After converting, however, he traveled around the Mediterranean seeking instruction from those in the Church. Becoming both head of the catechetical school and prespyber of the Church in Alexandria, he taught many Christians including Origen. 

This episode contains his Exhortation to the Heathen, a book dedicated to convince those engaged in pagan, Greek culture to embrace Christianity. Clement writes with clarity and acuity, critiquing the culture around him while glorifying God and relying on the scriptures. In this, Clement traces the path worn by others like Justin and Theophilus, demonstrating the inconsistencies and immorality present in the cultural norms and religions of his day. Clement writes with sarcasm and utilizes his vast learning and the library at Alexandria to demonstrate the differing opinions of Greek writers regarding their so-called gods.

Perhaps what differentiates Clement is a clearer focus on drawing people to salvation in Christ. Many of the previous works written to those outside the Church have argued for the existence and preeminence of the one true God. While Clement does this, he also speaks more specifically of loving, following, and knowing Christ. He draws upon the cross and expounds the gospel towards the end of his work. Indeed, following the form of a modern gospel presentation, he calls his reader to repentance and salvation through faith.

And now, please enjoy this rendition of Clement of Alexandria’s Exhortation to the Heathen.

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