The Didache, also known as, "The Teaching of the Twelve, was a highly regarded document in wide circulation by about the end of the first century, and accepted as sacred Scripture by a significant portion of the ancient church. We do not know for certain who wrote this book but it is likely a book written which intends to reflect the Apostles' teachings. It is also possible that it was compiled by those who were taught directly by the apostles. It may also be a source document for the Epistle of Barnabas which also teaches 'The Two Ways' using very similar, and sometimes identical, language.
The Didache contains a certain flavour and content very similar to the Synoptic gospels, the book of Acts, and the book of James, suggesting it was written by a Jewish Christian at a very early date in the same cultural, geographical, and historical context as the Gospel of Matthew which shares many similar words and phrases with the Didache. It is even possible that this document is the earliest extant Christian writing.
In this book, there is no hint of a three-person-God or that anyone thought Christ was God. "Almighty God" is recognized to be the Father and the "Lord" is Jesus His servant-son (cf. Acts 3:13,26). Here we also find a reference to baptism in the name of God the Father, God' Son, and God's Holy Spirit. And we also find evidence of the doxology which was not originally part of the prayer but is today appended to the Lord's Prayer in the book of Matthew.
And concerning baptism, baptize as follows: Having first said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, in living water. But if you have no living water, baptize into other water. And if you cannot do so in cold water, do so in warm. But if you have neither, pour out water three times upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit. But before the baptism let the baptizer fast, and the baptized, and whoever else is able, but you shall order the baptized to fast one or two days before. (7).
And concerning the Eucharist... "We thank You, our Father, for the holy vine of David Your servant-son, which You made known to us through Jesus Your servant-son. To You be the glory for ever." (9).
And concerning the broken Bread: "We thank You, our Father, for the life and knowledge which You made known to us through Jesus Your servant-son, to You be the glory for ever. Just as this broken bread was scattered over the hills, and was gathered together and became one, so let Your church be gathered together from the ends of the earth into Your Kingdom for Yours is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ forever." (9).
We thank You, Holy Father, for Your holy name you that made to tabernacle in our hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality, which you revealed to us through Jesus Your servant-son. Glory to You forever and ever. You, Almighty Lord, have created all things for Your own name's sake, You gave food and drink to men for enjoyment, that they might give thanks to You, but to us You freely gave spiritual food and drink and life eternal through Your servant-son. Above all things we thank You that You are mighty. Glory to You forever and ever.... Hosanna to the God of David. (10).
Last Update: July 5, 2011
