Doctrine of the Twelve Apostles

The "Doctrine of the Twelve Apostles," also known as the Didachē, is one of the earliest surviving Christian church orders, likely written in the 2nd century. It offers moral and ethical instruction, outlines church practices, and discusses the eschatological hope of Christ's Second Coming.1

The Didachē is considered a work of patristic literature and was treated as canonical by some early Christian writers. It was rediscovered in 1873 and published in 1883. The text is a compilation of regulations that had gained legal force through usage in various Christian communities. It includes teachings on the "two ways" (life and death), baptism, fasting, prayer, the Eucharist, and the appointment of bishops and deacons. The Didachē also provides guidance on how to receive and test traveling apostles and prophets.1