The Didache

by Anonymous

Bless those who curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for those who persecute you.

You shall not be double-minded nor double-tongued, for to be double-tongued is a snare of death.

And seek out day by day the faces of the saints, in order that you may rest upon their words.

Do not remove your hand from your son or daughter; rather, teach them the fear of God from their youth.

Do not enjoin anything in your bitterness upon your bondman or maidservant, who hope in the same God, lest ever they shall fear not God who is over both; for he comes not to call according to the outward appearance, but to them whom the Spirit has prepared.

In the church you shall acknowledge your transgressions, and you shall not come near for your prayer with an evil conscience. This is the way of life.

you shall order the baptized to fast one or two days before.

But let no one eat or drink of your Eucharist, unless they have been baptized into the name of the Lord; for concerning this also the Lord has said, "Give not that which is holy to the dogs."

But not every one who speaks in the Spirit is a prophet; but only if he holds the ways of the Lord.

And every prophet who teaches the truth, but does not do what he teaches, is a false prophet.

But if he wants to stay with you, and is an artisan, let him work and eat. But if he has no trade, according to your understanding, see to it that, as a Christian, he shall not live with you idle.

Every first-fruit, therefore, of the products of wine-press and threshing-floor, of oxen and of sheep, you shall take and give to the prophets, for they are your high priests. But if you have no prophet, give it to the poor.

But every Lord's day gather yourselves together, and break bread, and give thanksgiving after having confessed your transgressions, that your sacrifice may be pure.

But come together often, seeking the things which are befitting to your souls: for the whole time of your faith will not profit you, if you are not made perfect in the last time.