Apostolic Fathers
1 Clement
Clement of Rome · c. 96
Historical Context
A letter from the church of Rome to the church of Corinth after younger members deposed their presbyters. It is the earliest surviving Christian writing outside the New Testament.
Summary
Clement appeals for repentance and order, grounding presbyteral authority in apostolic appointment and orderly succession. He weaves together Old Testament examples, the witness of Peter and Paul, and a long prayer for civil rulers.
Major Themes
- Apostolic succession
- Humility and order
- Schism as sin
- Resurrection
- Prayer for rulers
Important Quotations
“Our apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there would be strife on account of the office of the episcopate.”— 1 Clement 44
Related Timeline Events
Related Church Fathers
Related Doctrines
Primary Sources
Further Reading
- Michael Holmes (ed.), The Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts and English Translations
- Andrew Gregory, '1 Clement: An Introduction'