Prolegomena

Abstract

Abstract Irenaeus has been characterized as incapable of sound reasoning, not a good thinker, naïve, and unable to construct a sophisticated theology. He was said to have little to no interest in philosophical reasoning and to strictly oppose theological speculation. Each of these narratives opposes the study of Irenaeus’ understanding of God and its bearing on the divine economy. This chapter consists of three essays that challenge these narratives, thereby establishing an understanding of Irenaeus and his theological method that sustains the chapters that follow. The first essay challenges the narrative that Irenaeus was unintelligent or incompetent by demonstrating his knowledge of literary and rhetorical theory and, thus, arguing he enjoyed a thorough rhetorical education. The second argues that he is not strictly opposed to theological speculation. The third shows that he recognizes a natural knowledge of God which, in turn, establishes a basis for the theological appropriation of philosophical insights.