One of the earliest non-inspired Christian writings was The Didache. Compiled around A.D. 100 to 130, it was designed as a how-to guide on becoming and being a Christian, written in Old Testament fashion for New Testament believers. The New Testament is compiled in a recognized literary style – epistolary, in which we read the entire collection and then reconstruct the character, plot and story through assimilation to gather the complete message. The Didache was an attempt to condense and compile the New Testament’s teachings into black-letter form.
Here are it’s opening words: “THERE are two paths, one of life and one of death, and the difference is great between the two paths.”
What a powerful yet simple statement.
Many people spend their lives focusing on matters other than their relationship with God. Jesus said, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matt. 7:13-14). That’s a bold statement, too. Ignoring God does not change the fact He exists.
Consider a half dozen reasons every person must reflect on his relationship with God:
1. The Mortality Factor: I won’t live forever. “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” (Heb. 9:27).
2. The Morality Factor: I can’t do enough good things to ensure I’ll live forever. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:5).
3. The Meaning Factor: I need purpose in life. “For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?” (Eccl. 6:12).
4. The Management Factor: I need guidance. “There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.” (Prov. 30:13).
5. The Messiah Factor: Jesus gave His life on Calvary for me. Jesus said, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. This he said, signifying what death he should die.” (John 12:32-33).
6. The Mercy Factor: I need peace of mind from anxiety, guilt and fear. Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28).
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