The Proof of the Gospel

Eusebius of Caesarea (260–339)

§ I. OBJECT AND OCCASION The Demonstratio Evangelica (Ευαγγελικης Αποδειξεως δεκα λογοι) originally consisted of twenty books, of which only ten remain. It was the concluding portion of the complete work, which included the Praeparatio . At the beginning of the latter Eusebius stated his object to be "to shew the nature of Christianity to those who know not what it means" the purpose of its pages was to give an answer to all reasonable questions both from Jewish or Greek inquirers about Christianity, and its relation to other religions. Thus the Praeparatio was intended to be "a guide, by occupying the place of elementary instruction and introduction, and suiting itself to our recent converts from among the heathen." The Demonstratio , Eusebius promises in the same passage, will go further. It will adapt itself "to those who have passed beyond this, and are already in a state prepared for the reception of the higher truths." It will "convey the exact knowledge of the most stringent proofs of God's mysterious dispensation in regard to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." All apologetics, no doubt, have a double object, to convince the unbeliever and to strengthen the faithful. And…

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• More works by Eusebius of Caesarea

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