On the Apostolic Preaching

Rating:
Summary: Irenaeus' summery of the Christian faith
Review: "On the Apostolic Preaching" is a recently discovered work of Irenaeus, a second century theologian. Irenaeus is better known for his attacks on Gnosticism but he still has time to write a summery of the Christian faith for his friend Marcianus.

In his book, Irenaeus presents the faith chronologically, from the creation of the world to the death of Christ. He masterfully interprets the Old Testament to show that Christ is the focus and the culmination of the Old Testament. When he does this, he is also attempting to refute a common Gnostic belief that the old bloodthirsty God of the Old Testament was a completely different creature from new gentle God of the New Testament.

He continues and finds support in the Old Testament for nearly every aspect of Christ and for the actions of the Apostles. This book also contains one of the earliest explanations of the Trinity which is interesting to see how it compares to modern understanding on the subject.

This book is a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a second century theologian and an interesting read.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent insight into the teaching of the early church
Review: Assuming that this is a true representation of an actual writing, it is invaluable for all Christians in showing us what the manner of preaching was at the very beginning. Of this fact, I really have no doubt, and accept this writing as that of Irenaeus himself. Irenaeus was taught by Polycarp, who was a disciple of the Apostle John, so we have here a teaching of the preaching told by a second generation source.

Rating:
Summary: Great Stuff!
Review: While not as essential as his "Against Heresies", "On the Apostolic Preaching" contains a well of information regarding the early Church's teaching especially in regards to the truth of the Holy Trinity. Great writing from a great father, highly recommended.