Mary as the Early Christians Knew Her

The Mother of Jesus in Three Ancient Texts

De: Frederica Mathewes-Green

Narrado por: Frederica Mathewes-Green

Mary is the flower of femininity to some, a woman of power to others. She has been seen as a paragon of obedience as well as an instrument of liberation. Some have piled her status so high that it rivals that of her Son. Other do their best to ignore her. Behind all of those images is a girl who grew up to be the mother of Christ.

How did the first Christians view Mary? What did they believe about her early life, her childhood and marriage to Joseph, before the Annunciation? Frederica Mathewes-Green presents three of the earliest texts about Mary - a story, a prayer, and a hymn - and provides new translations and commentary. As we see Mary the way the early Christians did, we gain new and sometimes startling insights.

©2007 Frederica Mathewes-Green (P)2017 Frederica Mathewes-Green

A Protestant student of Greek now understands Mary’s pivotal role in the salvation of the world.

This changed my view. Fine scholarship and good Greek translation. Well reasoned and very straightforward. All Christians should call her blessed and recognize the important role she plays in the salvation of mankind.

Fire

Absolute flames! So good, Frederick really opens the heart to our mother, and helps us have a fuller picture of St Mary as a person.

Historical Mary

This was a good perusal of how Mary was viewed in early history. Although o liked it I wish it had more about Mary’s life as a young girl. I note it wouldn’t be Biblical but I would like to know more about house Mary lived day to day.

Wonderful

Frederica has been a very influential voice in my decision to join the Orthodox Church. This book does not disappoint in content or narration.

great walk thru of protoevangelium of James,

This is a must for those who want understand the early church. I recommend this.

The narratives and subsequent explanations- awesome

Awesome book it reminds me of us of Mary’s part and contributions to our salvation as well as Joseph her husband it is much to learn from them specially in this century

Loved it

I will need to listen to again as well as make notes in the paperback. Normally, I don’t like it when authors narrate their books but I felt like Frederica Mathews-Green was here reading it to me. She has a very calming voice. I want to lovingly honor and respect The Virgin Mary without worshiping her. I have always held Mary at arms length so this was very helpful to me.

What joy to experience the love of early Christians for Christ’s Mother

I am so grateful that God has declared these truths and has enlightened the author to share such a moving testament of faith. I have choked up and have felt such pure joy while listening to a heartfelt narration and knowing the Mother of Christ. Thank you.

Insightful and illuminating

This book takes the time to explain many things about Mary which were assumed or taken for granted in my own Byzantine Catholic upbringing. I enjoyed learning and being able to say “Oh, so that’s where it comes from!”
Mathewes-Green is very understanding of common objections against the veneration of Mary, and responds to them gently, not defensively.
If you’re curious to understand the roots of your own Marian devotion better, or if you’re confused as to why such devotion exists at all, then I think you’ll find this book well worth a listen.

Insightful and delightful

A wonderful book that delves deeply into the early church understanding of Mary and her place in Christian worship.