The Apostolic Fathers: An Introduction and Translation

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Description

William Varner provides a completely up-to-date introduction to the writings of the Apostolic Fathers. These 1st-2nd Century texts are foundational for the early Christian movement, and the interpretation of the New Testament in the earliest days of what was to later become known as Christianity. Beyond introducing the individual writers Varner also presents and situates their writings, with each chapter offering an introduction followed by key texts. Varner translates these works afresh, and situates them in their original contexts. The introductory materials help readers to interpret these various writings and outline the most important scholarly debates around them, whilst also giving readers access to the texts themselves. The book concludes with a chapter that shows how the Apostolic Fathers are relevant in the 21st century, drawing together threads of reception history and modern Christian theology.

Reviews

As I read William Varners translation of and introduction to these ancient works, I thought of the Lords question to Ezekiel, 'Shall these bones live' These old texts, sometimes overlooked by ancient and modern writers, deserve to be brought to life for modern readers. I am thankful that my own effort to do so years ago inspired Dr. Varner to give them new life in this volume. Yes, these bones can live for todays readers! * SIMON TUGWELL O.P., Blackfriars, Oxford, UK *
I am delighted to endorse and recommend the materials that Varner has provided within these pages as evidence of careful consideration of an important body of ancient Christian writings that have too often been ignored both by biblical scholarship and students of patristic literature alike. A new flavor of scholarship is to be discovered here by those who give time to the literature and its careful introduction. I invite you to drink deeply and enjoy! * From the foreword by CLAYTON N. JEFFORD, Saint Meinrad Seminary, USA *

Author Bio

William Varner is professor of Biblical Studies and Greek at The Master's University, USA.