What we can learn from Papias about early Christianity

ABSTRACT: We have only fragmentary evidence of Papias of Hierapolis, a bishop active in the early-to-middle second century. But what evidence we do have from him is suggestive. Papias offers a window into an early Christian community that is without canonical texts, preoccupied with eschatological speculation, and apparently ignorant of or hostile to the apostle Paul.
Dr. Steven Nemes has a BA in Philosophy from Arizona State University with a minor in Religious Studies (2013), and an MDiv and PhD in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary (2016, 2021). The author of a number of articles, chapters, and books on diverse subjects in theology and philosophy, he teaches Latin at North Phoenix Preparatory Academy in Phoenix, Arizona.

[@drstevennemes]

A correction to what I say at 5:35 -
Papias uses the word “legousin” (present tense, not imperfect).

[@seanhogan6893]

Thanks Steven. I think that was the best introduction I think I've heard / read.

[@drstevennemes]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@UplandJones1]

Very good summary of Papius.

[@UplandJones1]

This is a very good overview of Papias. Thank you.

[@drstevennemes]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JimmyTuxTv]

Have you explored when Papias death was?

[@drstevennemes]

I have not. What are your ideas on it?

[@JimmyTuxTv]

@@drstevennemes he has 2or3 different time periods of death, Ignatius has the same issue. it's a tug of war to try to get fathers and sources early but not be war casualties for martyrdom narratives. If you have a trusted source I'd be interested to know thoughts.

[@drstevennemes]

@@JimmyTuxTv interesting. I’d never thought of that before.
Like I say in the video, this is not really my field of expertise. But if you come across anything interesting, share it with me please!