jan 1, 95 - First Epistle of Clement, Reference (Non-Manuscript)

Description:

First Epistle of Clement
Author: Clement of Rome
AD 95-100

- Dated around this time due to this line: "Because of the sudden and repeated misfortunes and setbacks which have befallen us…”
- Original Letter LOST; earliest manuscript dated to fifth century.

Possibly refers to persecution under Domitian around AD 95. That places the letter after the deaths of Peter and Paul, but still very early while memories of the apostles were fresh.

1 Clement is one of the earliest surviving Christian writings outside the New Testament. Gives us a direct window into what Christians believed and how churches functioned only about 60–70 years after Jesus’ death.
The church in Corinth had experienced a serious internal conflict. A younger group in the church appears to have removed or rebelled against established elders/presbyters.
The Roman church wrote to urge peace, humility, and restoration of proper leadership.

About Peter and Paul:
It says Peter endured suffering because of “jealousy and envy.”
About Paul, it says:
- "He preached “in the east and west”
- Reached “the limits of the west” (possibly pain)
-Suffered martyrdom

Says the apostles:
-Preached the gospel
-Appointed bishops/elders
- Established succession so ministry would continue after their deaths

1 Clement quotes or alludes to the Old Testament extensively, Matthew, Romans, Corinthians, Hebrews-like language
- This shows certain Christian texts were already circulating widely by the late 1st century.

Added to timeline:

Date: