Introduction:

"Many centuries before it happened, the prophet Isaiah had foretold the coming of the Messiah, his passion and final triumph. From the readings of Isaiah’s prophecy we hear of the Redeemer, innocent, persecuted and martyred and finally lifting himself from the depths of suffering to the heights of glory. By the time Jesus was ascending into heaven he had a band of just about a hundred and twenty followers. However, in spite of the small numbers, Jesus had predicted the miraculous and permanent growth of the church. In this chapter we shall address ourselves to Jesus Christ, his first band of followers and the church, which Jesus founded." (From Mugambi, J.N.K. (2010) A Comparative Study of Religions, Chapter 33)

Readings:

Mugambi, J.N.K. (2010) A Comparative Study of Religions. (2nd Edition), Oxford, UK: African Books Collective, Chapter 33.

Video: 

The Apostolic Fathers; Jesus as Foundation of the Church

Study Questions:

1. Describe the development of the Christian church, from Pentecost to the Council of Jerusalem.
2. Explain the importance of the Council of Jerusalem.
3. What is meant by the statement that the Christianity of the apostolic church was not merely a doctrine but a total way of life?
4. Give an account of Jesus meeting with his disciples after his resurrection.