Clement of Rome
The letter known as 1 Clement speaks from the church in Rome to the church in Corinth about disorder, repentance, peace, and the continuity of appointed ministry.
Historical context
The letter is commonly placed near the end of the first century. Its text names the sending church rather than identifying a single author in the opening; the attribution to Clement is early Church tradition.
Perspective note
Shared subject; this bundled record was originally written with an Orthodox-informed editorial lens.
Key points
- Chapters 42–44 connect apostolic mission and subsequent appointment of ministers.
- Read the exhortations to humility and reconciliation alongside the passages on church order.
Scripture
- 1 Corinthians 1:10-17 — Paul's earlier appeal to the same Corinthian church over division.
Primary sources
The church of Rome writes to Corinth:
First Clement traces the appointment of bishops and deacons to apostolic missionary practice.
they appointed the first fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons
Passage context and translation
The Roman church’s letter, traditionally associated with Clement, appeals to apostolic commissioning and provision for ministry in chapters 42–44 while opposing the removal of blameless leaders at Corinth.
Before the excerpt
And thus preaching through countries and cities,
After the excerpt
of those who should afterwards believe.