St Irenaeus Of Lyons Quotes

St. Paul and St. John had begun the struggle against Gnosticism, which in their time was in its early stages. Even so, it was already showing its pernicious tendencies: promoting its seductive secret knowledge in the Christian communities, confusing simple believers, and spreading the first dangerous ‘pluralism’ within the unity of the faith. A real showdown only became possible when all the various systems of Gnosticism had been constructed. This took place towards the end of the second century.

In a variety of ways, the Fathers attest to the fact that the church of Rome was the central, authoritative church. They rely on Rome for advice, for mediation of disputes, and for guidance on doctrinal issues. They note, as St. Ignatius of Antioch does, that Rome holds “the presidency” among the other churches, and that, as St. Irenaeus of Lyons explains, “because of its superior origin, all the churches must agree” with Rome. They are also clear on the fact that it is communion with Rome and the bishop of Rome that causes one to be in communion with the Catholic Church.