This Early Christian Writings course introduces learners to a selection of first- through fourth-century texts that are formative to Christianity. We shall learn of the historical and theological context in which these texts were created.

We will read from a range of primary textual sources: Tanakh (Genesis), Epistles (Romans, Corinthians), liturgical (Didache), Patristic writers (Arius, Justin Martyr, Ireneaus, Julian, Augustine), Canonical Gospels (Mark, Matthew, and John), and non-Canonical (Thomas).

Through engaged reading, discussion, interpretation, critical and creative reflection, we aim to explore in these texts many of the roots that inform contemporary Christian understanding of free-will, sin, redemption, and faith.

Note about the course content: Fordham Theology Department guidelines for this course charge learners to explore ‘sacred-text and scripture of the Early Christians’. Learners should not presume for this course to be, or to replace, an historical or theological survey of Christianity.

Please obtain the 2610-004 Spring-2008 Course Reader from the Rose Hill campus bookstore. The Course Reader comprises the sacred and secondary readings we cover this semester. No other textbooks.

The readings will be also posted here during the first few weeks of class.