Praeparatio evangelica

The Praeparatio evangelica (Preparation for the Gospel) is a work by Eusebius of Caesarea, a 4th-century bishop and historian. This extensive work is essentially a compilation of pagan Greek philosophical and literary texts, presented as evidence that these ancient sources contained prophecies and ideas that foreshadowed Christian teachings.12

Eusebius's goal was to demonstrate that Christianity was not a new or foreign religion but rather the fulfillment of ancient wisdom. He argued that the truths found in pagan philosophy were a form of praeparatio evangelica, a preparation for the gospel, suggesting a divine groundwork laid before the advent of Christ. The work is a significant source for understanding pre-Christian Greek thought and Eusebius's apologetic methods.21