Ancient Church

The Ancient Church Fathers reveals the disciples of the 12 apostles and what they taught, from their own writings. It documents that the same doctrine was faithfully transmitted to their descendants in the first few centuries. It also describes where, when, and by whom, the doctrines began to change.

EXPERIENCE THE EARLY CHURCH. Forced from her home after the stoning of Stephen and persecution of believers in Jerusalem, Libi and her family now live in the city of Antioch. Days pass quickly in a community where the oppressed are in great need, and Libi finds every opportunity to serve alongside other believers despite growing obstacles and a lack of resources. All of this leaves little time to think about what she has lost, or the growing desire in her heart for what she does not have. Cassius lives his life in the shadows after witnessing the impossible and deserting the Roman Army as a...

Newly revised and edited The Apostolic Fathers in Modern English Experience the earliest Christian writings, clearly translated for today. This edition presents the complete collection traditionally known as the Apostolic Fathers in fresh, readable modern English, paired with concise, thematic essays at the end of the book that frame the world, worship, and witness of the early church. If you’ve tried public-domain or Victorian renderings and bounced off the archaic phrasing, this volume is built to be faithful, direct, and readable, without dumbing anything down. What’s Included (...

In a world drowning in noise, the wisdom of a 4th-century desert monk offers a lifeline to clarity, peace, and purpose. Evagrius of Pontus for Beginners is your guide to the profound teachings of one of Christianity’s most influential thinkers, presented in a way that’s accessible, transformative, and utterly relevant for modern life. Unlock the secrets of apatheia—a state of inner calm that frees you from the tyranny of distractions and passions. Master the eight evil thoughts that threaten your peace and learn practical strategies to overcome them with grace and resilience. ...

A dedicated group of Orthodox monks (who wish to remain anonymous) have created a fresh English translation of the Masoretic Hebrew text of the Psalter, corrected to the Septuagint. A frequently asked question: The Psalms aren't in numerical order in this Psalter. Why is that? Answer: That was done intentionally. This edition of the Psalter was created for prayer, at home or in church, rather than for reference. It's not just another Book of Psalms.

Ever wonder what's actually in those "lost books of the Bible" everyone talks about? This comprehensive 750+ page guide gives you everything you want to know about over 100 forbidden Christian texts, without having to read the originals. From the shocking childhood stories of Jesus to secret gospels banned by the early church, discover what these mysterious writings actually contain and why they were excluded from Scripture. What You'll Discover: Expanded Genesis Stories - The Books of Enoch, Jubilees, and the cosmic drama behind creation Jesus's Hidden Childhood - Infancy Gospels revealing...

The Didache: The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles - A Modern Translation of One of Christianity's Earliest Church Manuals Discover how the first Christians actually lived, worshipped, and organized their communities. The Didache, also known as The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, is one of the earliest Christian writings outside the New Testament, dating from 50-120 AD. Written when some apostles may still have been alive, this document from the Apostolic Fathers provides a direct window into daily Christian life during the apostolic era. But most editions present this ancient text with ...

Prayers from the Ancient Celtic Church is a collection of prayers from the time of Patrick (d. ca. 460-493) to the Synod of Whitby (664), and also from the Celtic Christian tradition that remained after Whitby. A few of the prayers in this book may be familiar from their appearance in other prayer books. Some may be appearing in English for the first time. All prayers (with one exception) are rendered or revised into contemporary English with the hopes that they will be useful in private and corporate worship. Includes prayers from The Antiphonary of Bangor, The Lorrha-Stowe Missal, The ...

The age of the apostles is ending. The age of the Book has begun. It is the late first century, and the living witnesses who walked with Christ are vanishing from the earth. In Antioch, a dedicated group of scribes, led by John the son of Caius, works frantically to preserve the scattered writings of the apostles. But the greatest threat to the survival of the true faith is no longer just the fire and sword of the Roman Empire—it is a subtle, creeping rot from within. In the heart of the capital, two distinct churches are emerging. Bishop Clement is building a magnificent, visible ...

EXPERIENCE THE EARLY CHURCH. After a devastating series of personal tragedies, Rut isn’t sure what she believes and chooses to devote herself entirely to what she knows: her work as a skilled weaver. When Rut meets Lydia, a seller of fine purple goods, she is immediately intrigued. Rut agrees to travel with her to Philippi even though it means saying goodbye to everyone and everything she knew before. While on the journey, Rut begins to forge a new identity for herself, never expecting the past to catch up to her in the way it does. Hektor feels an instant pull toward Rut, recognizing in ...

The story of the ancient Church is one of a people who were finding their way over many years by the light that God shined forth for them. Today, we are looking back over the centuries with many more years of understanding but we stand on the shoulders of those who braved persecution, death, debate, and mystery on behalf of generations to come.

Ask the typical person about the origins of the Anglican Church and thoughts automatically turn to the 16th century, Henry VIII, and the Protestant Reformation. But the spirituality and history of the Anglican tradition go back over 1000 years before the 16th century, and is filled with such notable characters as Saint Patrick, St. Columba of Iona, and St. Hilda of Whitby. Join Bishop Kenneth Myers as he leads us on an adventure into our Celtic roots, where we will learn about the history of early Christianity in the British Isles and also discover some of the rich treasures of Celtic ...

Before Rome became Christian, before Europe’s great cathedrals rose, before Christianity shaped the empires of the West, a small mountain nation made history. Armenia became the first nation to embrace Christianity—and the Armenian Apostolic Church has carried that ancient faith through kings and councils, monks and martyrs, exile and survival. Armenian Apostolic Church for Beginners is a clear, engaging, and accessible guide to one of the oldest Christian traditions in the world. Written for readers with little or no prior knowledge, this book opens the door to Armenia’s sacred story...

Journey through epic religious history as ancient merchants and exiled monks forge an enduring faith along the Silk Road. Perfect for your morning commute, this dramatic narrative transports you from the imperial courts of the early medieval world to the shadows of modern underground movements...

Immerse yourself in the profound world of one of the oldest and most fascinating Christian traditions with Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church: A Beginner's Guide. This comprehensive introduction is your gateway to understanding the rich tapestry of faith, culture, and history that defines the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Discover the ancient roots and enduring legacy of a church that has been a beacon of faith for over 1,600 years. With this guide, you'll uncover the deep spiritual practices and vibrant traditions that continue to inspire millions. Unlock the Secrets of Ancient Faith: Delve ...

The biblical story as it has never been told before. The Bible is the best-selling book in human history, but sometimes the stories it weaves are not fully understood, due to its poetic and obscure literary style. Genesis Days brings you the stories of the first generations, from the creation of the world to the end of the days of Sarah, wife of Abraham, in simple and straightforward English. The book lays bare the lives of humanity’s forefathers and reveals ancient history through a contemporary experience. If you’ve always wanted to read the Bible and understand it from beginning to ...

The explosive Robert Langdon thriller from Dan Brown, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Da Vinci Code, The Lost Symbol, Inferno, and The Secret of Secrets. An ancient secret brotherhood. A devastating new weapon of destruction. An unthinkable target. When world-renowned Harvard...

Step into the captivating world of one of Christianity’s oldest and most enduring traditions. Assyrian Church of the East: A Beginner’s Guide is your gateway to understanding a faith that has weathered centuries of persecution, shaped global history, and continues to inspire millions around the world. This isn’t just another history book. It’s an invitation to uncover the spiritual treasures and timeless lessons of a Church that connects the apostles to the present day. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student of theology, or someone seeking deeper spiritual insights, this ...

The Foundations of Christian Monasticism Ancient Monastic Rules gathers in one substantial volume the great early guides to the common life: St. Pachomius the Great, St. Basil the Great, St. John Cassian, and St. Benedict of Nursia. Collected by St. Theophan the Recluse from the 1892 Russian edition, this work brings together the spiritual architecture of Christian monasticism: obedience, prayer, labor, fasting, humility, repentance, brotherly love, correction, and the disciplined pursuit of holiness. This is not merely a historical curiosity. It is a treasury of ascetic wisdom showing how ...

Who is Jesus Christ? For centuries, Christians have answered that question with words shaped by one of the most important councils in church history. In 451 AD, bishops gathered at Chalcedon to confront a debate that had divided the ancient church: Was Jesus fully divine? Fully human? One person? Two natures? And why did the answer matter so much? Council of Chalcedon for Beginners: Understanding the Ancient Debate Over Christ’s Divinity and Humanity takes readers inside the drama, conflict, and lasting significance of the council that helped define Christian belief for generations. This ...