Theology Guest Lecture

The Apostolic Fathers as Traveling Companions in New Testament Study

How does the collection known as the “Apostolic Fathers” illuminate our understanding of the Christian Scriptures? This presentation will examine how the writings of Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp of Smyrna illustrate the early circulation, acknowledged authority, and theological influence of texts now found within the New Testament. Paul Hartog is a Professor of Theology at Faith Baptist Theological Seminary. He has authored or edited several books and numerous articles on the history, theology, and ethics of Early Christianity, with a particular focus upon the Apostolic Fathers. He has earned master’s degrees from Faith Baptist Theological Seminary, Iowa State University, St. Andrew’s Theological College, and the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee, and a Ph.D. in New Testament and Early Christianity from Loyola University Chicago.