"During the second and third centuries(A.D.100-300), Christianity was an illegal, persecuted religion throughout most of the civilized world. In many ways, this was a blessing. To a large degree, persecution culled out superficial Christians and those who were not willing to make sacrifices for Christ. It also produced a considerable number of fervent Christians who loved God with their whole heart, soul, and mind--Christians who scorned both the fierce persecutions brought by Satan and the alluring pleasures of this world." Taken from "The Pilgrim Road":Compiled by David W. Bercot
It is very interesting to find out what the early church believed and lived compared to the things that we believe today. After all, these were the believers who were taught by the Apostles themselves. And those who were not, were only a generation behind, being taught by the disciples of the Apostles. What make it interesting is the fact that if they had questions concering anything they could just ask the Apostle who had the revelation! I believe that we are extremely blessed to have the writings of these men of God. While they are not inspired like the Scriptures are, they give us valuable insight into what the early church believed. The Church that the Apostles taught and discipled in the ways of Christ.