Explore full early church libraryExplore library

Library
Mathetes
Epistle to Diognetus

ChristologyEcclesiology

Epistle to Diognetus

Mathetes · c. 130 AD

24 min read

Apostolic

An eloquent anonymous apology defending Christianity to a pagan inquirer, celebrated for its literary beauty and theological depth.

Table of Contents

1Occasion of the epistle 2The vanity of idols 3Superstitions of the Jews 4The other observances of the Jews 5The manners of the Christians 6The relation of Christians to the world 7The manifestation of Christ 8The miserable state of men before the coming of the Word 9Why the Son was sent so late 10The blessings that will flow from faith 11These things are worthy to be known and believed 12The importance of knowledge to true spiritual life