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

The Danger of False Appearances and the Battle for Orthodoxy

In this sixth exploration of Irenaeus’s engagement with Clement of Alexandria’s Stromata, we delve into Irenaeus’s warning about the deceptive nature of his opponents, who outwardly resemble the true Church but inwardly hold different, dangerous sentiments. This concern highlights the ongoing battle for orthodoxy and authenticity in early Christianity.

Irenaeus’s Warning in Adversus Haereses

In the preface to Adversus Haereses, Irenaeus writes:

"Lest, therefore, through my neglect, some should be carried off, even as sheep are by wolves, while they perceive not the true character of these men, because they outwardly are covered with sheep's clothing (against whom the Lord has enjoined us to be on our guard), and because their language resembles ours, while their sentiments are very different."

Irenaeus warns that these adversaries, though covered in the metaphorical sheep’s clothing, may deceive others due to the similarity in language to that of the true Church. He stresses the danger posed by this contemporary heretical group, likening them to orthodox doppelgangers and invoking the imagery of the Antichrist’s deceit.

Clement’s Perspective in the Stromata

Clement of Alexandria addresses similar concerns in Stromata 7.15, where he subtly critiques members of Irenaeus's Roman tradition, referring to them as "Doxosophists":

"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 acknowledges that within the Christian community, there are individuals who avoid discussion and examination of doctrine, fearing conviction. This mirrors Irenaeus's warning about adversaries who outwardly resemble the true Church but differ in sentiment. Clement’s critique appears directed at those who he perceives to be part of the Roman tradition, suggesting an internal conflict within the broader Christian community.

The Battle for True Doctrine

Clement’s depiction of the internal struggle for doctrinal purity includes his acknowledgment of sophists who have appropriated fragments of the truth, burying them within human systems. He asserts the importance of the correct interpretation of scriptures, legitimacy of rule, and guardianship of liturgical celebrations as markers of the true Church:

"He ends his discussion by saying that his enemies take 'glory in presiding over what is rather a school than a Church.'"

This critique implies that Clement views the Roman Church as claiming to represent the true Church, while he considers it merely a school. Madelaine Scopello identifies this as part of a broader heresiological trend, where heretics are depicted as having an outward appearance of orthodoxy but lacking the true essence of the faith.

The Echo of Language in Defense of Truth

The necessity of echoing the language of one's enemies to defend the truth against them is a theme in both Irenaeus and Clement. While Clement critiques those within the Christian community who he believes have strayed from the true path, Irenaeus emphasizes the need for vigilance against those who outwardly seem orthodox but are inwardly deceitful. This conflict over who holds the true doctrine underscores the fragmentation and diversity within early Christianity.

Conclusion: The Struggle for Authority and Authenticity

The sixth reference to the Stromata in the preface to Adversus Haereses reveals a fundamental struggle for authority and authenticity within early Christianity. Irenaeus’s emphasis on authoritative figures as the arbiters of truth contrasts with Clement’s more inclusive approach that allows for individual discernment and diversity of opinion. This ongoing battle reflects the complexities and tensions in defining orthodoxy during a formative period for the Christian faith.

Understanding these differing perspectives provides insight into the development of early Christian thought and the challenges faced in establishing a unified doctrine. The examination of Irenaeus’s familiarity with Clement’s Stromata enriches our comprehension of the intricate dynamics at play in the early Church’s quest for truth and authenticity.