Feast of St. Irenaeus 2010

Two years ago, I briefly wrote about St. Irenaeus who died a martyr in 202. I did not know him and the historical background well enough. Today, I have made very little progress in the knowledge of early Church history and the writings of the Church Fathers, among whom Irenaeus was one. In the next three days, I will continue the seminar in Patrology. Hopefully, by the end of it, I will be able to appreciate better the contribution of St. Irenaeus in his combat against Gnosticism.

Gnosticism teaches that through gaining "secret knowledge", we are able to attain, you name it, transcendence, salvation, liberation and enlightenment etc. It is very appealing especially when organized religions, such as Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism and Taoism etc appear to be so rigid and lifeless. Gnosticism has many incarnations. If you are hostile to the supernatural, it offers you "natural healing". If you lose your passion with your faith, it offers you an "alternative religion" which demolishes all boundaries between world religions. If you want to improve your health, it offers you various forms of Qi-Qong and TM etc. Unlike cults of terrorist brand, Gnosticism seems so healthy and does nobody any harm. Why then should the Church be wary against it?

Today, we read again Paul's advice to Timothy.
So shun youthful passions and aim at righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22).
I suppose Gnosticism also renders similar advice. Avoid lust. Aim at righteousness, faith, love and peace. Gather with other Gnosticists with a pure heart. Of course, it will replace Jesus with another identity. Perhaps this demarcates Christianity from Gnosticism.
How should Timothy deal with Gnosticism?
Have nothing to do with stupid, senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels (2 Timothy 2:23).
Perhaps Timothy was still too young and inexperienced to deal with Gnosticism. Not so with the Church Fathers. One century after the death of all the Apostles, Gnosticism must have been a force to reckon with. The Church Fathers had to defend Christianity lest it became another brand of Gnosticism. I will learn more about it in the next three days.
As for Timothy, he had to deal with it with gentleness and prayed that God might grant them repentance.
And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to every one, an apt teacher, forbearing,
correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth (2 Timothy 2:24-25).
Dear Lord, I am arrogant and impatient. I have not loved enough. Pray that I become more forbearing with my bosses. Amen.