The Recognitions of Clement

Recognitions is a captivating text dating back to the early Christian church and referenced by early church fathers Origen and Eusebius. The narrative is addressed to James the Just, the Bishop of Jerusalem, and is recorded by one Clement, a Greek, who chronicles a series of discourses by the apostle Peter, which he is witness to while accompanying Peter in his travels. Clement begins his account by detailing his own religious search before hearing of Christ. While in Rome, Clement hears the preaching of Barnabas who testifies of the miracles and teachings of Jesus. Clement, being moved by the words of Barnabas, defends him from a mob and ends up following after him to Palestine where he meets up with Peter. A large portion of the text is devoted to an intriguing disputation between Peter and Simon the Sorcerer before an audience of onlookers. Peter invites Clement to accompany him in his travels from city to city, creating an opportunity for Clement to be instructed more perfectly concerning the faith.