Imaginatively Missional
What if the story of early Christian missions isn’t just preserved in texts but in stones, inscriptions, and cities waiting to be read? In Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement, Michael T. Cooper explores how archaeology reshapes our understanding of the early Christian movement—and what that means for missions today. In this interview, we asked …
Continue reading "Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement: An Interview"
The Greek words oikos and oikia are often used interchangeably in modern discussions of the early church, yet they carried distinct meanings in the first-century context. Understanding their differences is crucial for accurately interpreting biblical texts and their implications for missions, community, and church structure for today. Oikia: The Physical House and Family The term …
Continue reading "Understanding the First-Century House Church in the Archaeological Record"
History seems to repeat itself in a continual cycle of recapitulation. While there is a temptation to think of our particular period of history as unique, a student of the past quickly recognizes common characteristics and patterns that appear familiar across time. The study of leadership theory is no less the case as we look to the past to …
Preliminary observations from ongoing research into the history of theological education in the early church Paul’s connection to the academy in Athens (Acts 17:18-20) and Ephesus (Acts 19:9-10) clearly influenced his disciples. The disciplines of careful observation of and dialogue with culture, reflective examination and application of Scripture, and informed engagement were critical to the …
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Preliminary observations from ongoing research into the history and evolution of the word "pastor" Eusebius’ magisterial work entitled Ecclesiastical History, written in four editions between 311-324AD, spans the history of the church from the time of Christ to the time of Constantine: about 300 years. The volume comprises a total of 10 books. Remarking on Eusebeius’ …
Continue reading "The Use of ποιμην in Early Christian History"
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