What if the foundations of mainstream Christianity were forged in fierce intellectual battles-where Gnostic teachings threatened to reshape the faith's core?
This anthology spotlights Irenaeus's Against Heresies, Tertullian's Adversus Valentinianos and Adversus Marcionem, and Hippolytus's Refutation of All Heresies. Adapted for a modern audience, these writings illuminate how early bishops and theologians safeguarded orthodoxy by systematically dismantling Gnostic beliefs on cosmic archons, alternate creation myths, and selective scripture editing.
Included Texts:
Irenaeus's Against Heresies (Selections)
Tertullian's Adversus Valentinianos & Adversus Marcionem (Excerpts)
Hippolytus's Refutation of All Heresies (Highlights)
Epistle of the Apostles (where relevant)
What You'll Discover Inside:
Core Theological Showdowns
- Debates over Christ's humanity/divinity, the Old Testament's place, and salvation's nature.
Detailed Accounts of "Heresies"
- Insight into Valentinian, Marcionite, and other Gnostic movements.
Development of Orthodoxy
- The arguments that shaped key creedal affirmations.
The Role of Scripture & Tradition
- Why certain texts were championed or cast aside.
Witness the razor-sharp rhetoric that molded the Christian faith you know today. Explore these refutations and glean the fervor of early doctrinal battles.