The books of the New Testament were written approximately between the years 50 and 130. What few people know is that other Christian books were also written during this period. We have at least a dozen writings from this period. One of the most mystifying to me is the Odes of Solomon. These 42 poems constitute the oldest Christian hymnal. They are written somewhat in imitation of the Psalms, but they have clear Christian themes like the virgin birth, baptism, and passion of Jesus. Here’s a part of Ode 3.

For I should not have known how to love the Lord,
    if he had not continuously loved me.
Who is able to distinguish love,
    except him who is loved.
I love the Beloved and my soul loves him,
    and where his rest is, there also am I.

Does anything sound familiar? How about1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.” There seems to be some connection between these Odes of Solomon and the community that John knew, but we don’t know what.

Since the most complete manuscript of the Odes is in Syriac (a language closely related to the Aramaic that Jesus spoke), many scholars think the Odes were written in Syria. They give us glimpse at the Syrian church as opposed to the Christian communities in Greece or Rome. There was great variety among early Christian churches, just as there is among churches today. Nevertheless, we can hear the common message: love the Lord.

Our love of Christ is more important than any differences among us.

Read 1 John 4:9-21 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne