Evidence for Irenaeus’s Familiarity with the Stromata in the Preface to Adversus Haereses

The Role of Authority and Authenticity: A Divergence in Early Christian Thought

In our ongoing analysis of Irenaeus’s familiarity with Clement of Alexandria’s Stromata, we delve into the metaphor of counterfeit detection used by Irenaeus in the preface to Adversus Haereses. This metaphor, which emphasizes the importance of experienced authority figures in exposing false teachings, contrasts sharply with Clement’s more permissive approach to sectarian diversity within Christianity.

Irenaeus’s Preface to Adversus Haereses

Irenaeus cites a statement attributed to "one far superior" to him, likely Polycarp of Smyrna:

"A clever imitation in glass casts contempt, as it were, on that precious jewel the emerald (which is most highly esteemed by some), unless it come under the eye of one able to test and expose the counterfeit. Or, again, what inexperienced person can with ease detect the presence of brass when it has been mixed up with silver?"

This metaphor follows Irenaeus's earlier statement about opponents developing "false truths" that appear "truer than the truth." The analogy emphasizes the need for experienced authority figures, such as bishops, to verify the authenticity of teachings within the Church. This perspective highlights a hierarchical structure where the verification of truth is the responsibility of designated overseers.

Clement’s Stromata on Truth and Heresies

In contrast, Clement of Alexandria, in Stromata 7.15.90.4-5, presents a different approach:

"We are told that heresies are for the sake of those who are approved and by 'approved' is meant either those who are coming to the faith, if they show unusual discrimination in approaching the teaching of the Lord (like the approved 'moneychangers' who distinguish the spurious from the legal coin by the false stamp), or those who are in the faith itself, and have already approved themselves therein, both by their life and their knowledge."

Clement employs the metaphor of approved "moneychangers" who distinguish genuine coinage from counterfeit by discerning the false stamp. This metaphor suggests that individual Christians should seek the truth independently, using their discernment and knowledge to verify authenticity. This approach reflects Alexandrian libertarianism, promoting individual inquiry and a diversity of opinions within the Christian community.

Divergent Approaches to Sectarianism

The fifth reference to the Stromata in the preface to Adversus Haereses highlights the fundamental differences between Irenaeus and Clement regarding the role of authority and authenticity in the Church. While Irenaeus emphasizes the need for authoritative figures to expose heresies and ensure doctrinal unity, Clement advocates for a more inclusive approach that allows for diversity and individual discernment.

Clement’s acknowledgment of the diversity of opinions among physicians, drawing a parallel to the diversity of sects within Christianity, underscores his belief that heresies serve a purpose. They either guide those approaching the faith or test those already within it. This permissive attitude towards sectarianism contrasts sharply with Irenaeus's emphasis on hierarchical authority and dogmatic unity.

Implications for the Early Church

The divergence between Irenaeus and Clement's approaches has significant implications for the development of early Christian thought. Irenaeus’s insistence on authority figures as the arbiters of truth reflects a move towards institutional orthodoxy and centralized control within the Church. This perspective aims to eliminate heresies and maintain doctrinal purity by relying on the judgment of bishops and other authority figures.

In contrast, Clement’s more inclusive approach allows for a broader range of interpretations and encourages individual inquiry. This perspective fosters an environment where diverse opinions can coexist, reflecting a more dynamic and less rigidly controlled early Christian community.

Conclusion

The metaphor of counterfeit detection used by Irenaeus in the preface to Adversus Haereses provides a clear indication of his familiarity with Clement’s Stromata and the differing approaches to truth and authority within the early Church. While Irenaeus advocates for a hierarchical structure where experienced authority figures expose false teachings, Clement promotes individual discernment and a diversity of opinions.

This divergence highlights the broader philosophical and theological debates within early Christianity, as the Church grappled with issues of authenticity, authority, and doctrinal unity. Understanding these differing perspectives enriches our comprehension of the development of early Christian thought and the formation of orthodoxy in the early Church.