The First Epistle of Clement, also known as First Clement, is a letter addressed to the Christians in the city of Corinth. The letter was composed at some point between 70 and 140 AD by Clement of Rome, who was a prominent leader in the church at Rome. 1 Clement is considered one of the earliest examples of post-biblical Christian literature outside of the New Testament.
The occasion for the letter was a dispute that had broken out among the Corinthian Christians related to the proper exercise of authority within the church. Some younger members of the church had rejected the authority of the church’s presbyters (elders). Clement wrote to the Corinthian church to remind them of the proper order established by God that those who are appointed to positions of authority should be respected.
The overall theme of 1 Clement is unity and harmony within the Christian community. Clement appeals to the Corinthian church to restore peace and order by showing due respect for those in authority over them. He argues that their rejection of authority threatens the welfare of the entire church.
Some key points made in 1 Clement:
– Clement defends the authority of the presbyters who had been improperly deposed, appealing to Old Testament examples of the proper order between those who appoint leaders and those who are appointed.
– He calls the Corinthian Christians to humility and repentance for rejecting those properly set in authority over them.
– He heavily emphasizes the importance of Christian unity and non-divisiveness. Schism and factiousness are strongly warned against.
– The epistle contains important teaching about the doctrine of justification, affirming that we are justified by faith in Christ rather than by works of the law.
– Clement affirms the reality of future rewards and judgment for the righteous and unrighteous. He sees the delay of Christ’s return as an opportunity for repentance.
– There are important allusions to many New Testament passages and doctrines, showing the influence of apostolic teaching.
– While asserting the authority of church leaders, Clement also affirms that Christ alone is Lord over all. Leaders must exercise their authority with humility and service rather than domination.
1 Clement gives us an important glimpse into early Christianity. It reveals convictions about church polity, ethics, eschatology and salvation that were foundational to the early church. As the earliest Christian document outside of the New Testament, it provides invaluable insight into the beliefs and practices of first generation Christians.
The Second Epistle of Clement, also known as 2 Clement, is a Christian writing that was composed around 130-160 AD, likely in Corinth or Rome. It was traditionally believed to have been authored by Clement of Rome, but most modern scholars reject this attribution. The author and exact date of 2 Clement remains unknown.
2 Clement was originally attached to the end of 1 Clement in the earliest manuscripts, but it is now considered an independent writing falsely attributed to Clement. The occasion and purpose of the epistle is also uncertain. It may have functioned as a homily or sermon.
The central theme of 2 Clement is repentance and holy living in preparation of the coming kingdom of God. It calls its readers to endurance and good works while warning against ungodliness and fleshly lusts. Living righteously in the present age is seen as essential to salvation at the return of Christ.
Some key points made in 2 Clement:
– There are strong warnings against ungodliness, lusts, strife and factiousness. Christians are called to purity and holiness.
– Endurance in doing good is emphasized as the way to attain eternal life at the resurrection.
– While salvation is by grace, good works and perseverance are necessary to remain in God’s grace and not lose eternal life.
– Right living and knowledge of God’s commands is essential preparation for Christ’s coming kingdom. Simply calling yourself a Christian is not enough.
– God’s foreknowledge and human free will are both affirmed. God knows the future yet we still have responsibility for our actions.
– Christ’s future return, the resurrection, and final judgment of all people is described, with warnings of punishment for the wicked.
– Baptism is affirmed as essential to salvation. Other possible liturgical practices are alluded to.
– Church leaders are encouraged in their service but not granted ultimate authority, since Christ alone is Lord and Master.
While 2 Clement lacks the name recognition of 1 Clement, it still provides valuable insight into Christian theology and ethics in the 2nd century AD. Along with 1 Clement it attests to the ongoing faith and doctrine of the early church after the time of the apostles.
In summary, 1 and 2 Clement are among the earliest Christian documents outside of the New Testament that provide a window into early church practices and beliefs. 1 Clement deals with church unity and authority, calling the Corinthians to respect their leaders. 2 Clement exhorts to righteous living in light of Christ’s coming and the future resurrection. Both reveal a Christianity focused on sound doctrine, moral living, the authority of Christ, and the future hope of eternal life, as taught by the apostles. These two letters are important pieces in reconstructing and understanding the history of early Christianity after the apostolic era.
