"The Apostolic Fathers is a collection of early Christian writings from the late first and early second centuries, traditionally considered to have been written by those connected with the apostles, and therefore reflecting authentic apostolic teaching. These writings include 1 Clement, 2 Clement, Ignatius, Polycarp, Didache, Barnabas, Papias, Hermas, Martyrdom of Polycarp, and Diognetus. Considering their historical context, the Apostolic Fathers bear directly on the study of the New Testament, the development of the early church, and the history of Christian theology."--BOOK JACKET.