Kościół u apologetów greckich II wieku

Abstract

One of dominant features of the writings of Greek apologists in the 2nd century is their polemic and defensive character. That is why the theme of the Church does not occur very often and is not presented straight. However, they include some thoughts on the nature and identity of the Church. The aim of the article is to present the main elements of the reflection on the Church in the 2nd century apologists. The conclusion is that, however rarely, it is a continuation of the thoughts of the Apostolic Fathers and anticipates the further development of the ecclesiological thought. The analysis of the texts leads to the conclusion that the Church of the apologists is new people of God, aware of its identity and separated from other ‘races’ (the Jews, Greeks, barbarians), a community of people joined by a special form of brotherhood, a shelter against danger and place of salvation.