1. Ethics in Early Christianity 1.Relationship between morality and religion. 2. The Law of Moses and the teaching of Jesus. 3.Didache : The Sermon on the Mount applied to Gentiles. 4.Ethics and eschatology. 5.Church discipline. Cyprian of Carthage.

2. Jesus’ attitude towards the Law You have heard that it was said… –You shall not murder, commit adultery, swear falsely, etc. But I say to you –Do not be angry, lustful, swear at all –Love your enemies

3. Jesus and the Law “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill…” 5:17. “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” 5:20.

4. Ranks of Ministry 1. Bishops 2. Presbyters (pastors/ priests) 3. Deacons

5. Cyprian of Carthage (200-258) Prominent lawyer & teacher of rhetoric Converted to Christianity ca. 246 Became a bishop in 248 Issue of the lapsed: –Novatian: no reconciliation with the Church –Cornelius/ Cyprian: reconciliation after a suitable period of probation

6. Map 2 nd c.