SS Outline 7.20.25

July 20, 2025
Title: The Defense of the Faith

Subject Matter: Apologetics and the articulation of Christian doctrine


I. Introduction: From Confusion to Clarity

II. Irenaeus of Lyons: Shepherd and Theologian

• Born c. 130 AD in Smyrna.
• Moved to Gaul (modern France), became Bishop of Lyons.
• Known as a bridge between the Apostolic Fathers and later theologians.
• Major Work: Against Heresies (Adversus Haereses)

III. Refuting Gnosticism

• Belief that salvation comes through secret knowledge (gnosis).
• Claimed the material world was evil, created by a lesser god (demiurge).
• Denied Christ’s incarnation and bodily resurrection.

IV. Preserving the Rule of Faith

• Irenaeus appealed to the “Rule of Faith” 
• Emphasized the unity of the Old and New Testaments.
• Insisted on the authority of the bishops in apostolic succession.

V. Lessons for the Church Today

• Discernment
• Doctrine as Protection
• Titus 1:9

VI. Discussion Questions