How the First Christians Followed Jesus: The Didache (S4E7)

In this second episode of our Didache series, we continue exploring “The Teaching of the Apostles”—one of the earliest Christian manuals of discipleship. This short handbook shows us how the first believers practiced the way of Jesus in daily life.

We begin with fasting in the community, then move to the Thanksgiving Meal (Eucharist). Strikingly, the Didache speaks of thanksgiving, unity, and kingdom hope—but makes no mention of Jesus’ death as a sacrificial offering for sins. Instead, the focus is on covenant relationship, reconciliation, and anticipation of the Kingdom.

From there, the Didache outlines how to discern true from false apostles, prophets, and teachers. Practical warnings are given about money, conduct, and community service—echoing Jesus’ own teaching: “Freely you have received; freely give.”

Finally, we reach the closing exhortations: electing humble local leaders, living in peace, keeping lamps burning, and staying alert for the Lord’s coming. The Didache is not innovation—it is implementation. It shows us how the earliest Christians practiced what Jesus commanded.

📖 Side-by-side, we compare Didache passages with Gospel parallels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to see the continuity with Jesus’ words.

👉 Next week’s video will look closely at fasting—its role in Jewish worship and early Christian practice.

🔔 If you find this teaching helpful, please Like, Subscribe, and Share so others can learn the Way of Jesus.

Credits:
Didache 1–16
Matthew 5–7; 10; 22; 24–25
Mark 13–14
Luke 6; 10; 12
John 4; 6
Proverbs 3:9

Questions or thoughts?
Drop them in the comments — I respond when I can or cover them in future videos.

© 2025 Joss Goodall, Independent Biblical Researcher