Apostolic Preaching and Teaching
The earliest churches learned the gospel through public preaching, repeated instruction, worship, and the testimony of recognized witnesses.
Full Account
The apostles proclaimed a coherent message centered on fulfillment of Scripture, Jesus' death for sins, His resurrection, repentance, forgiveness, the gift of the Spirit, and coming judgment. Teachers instructed converts more fully in Christian belief and conduct.
This oral transmission was connected to named witnesses and accountable communities. The churches were commanded to hold fast to what they had received and to reject competing messages, whether delivered orally or in writing.
Historical Significance
Apostolic proclamation supplied the living context in which New Testament documents were written, heard, interpreted, and preserved.
People, Places and Sources
- Key people: The apostles; prophets; evangelists; pastors; teachers
- Key places: Jerusalem; Antioch; churches throughout the Roman world
- Languages: Aramaic, Greek
- Scripture:
Acts 2:22-36
1 Corinthians 15:1-5
2 Thessalonians 2:15
2 Timothy 2:2