Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching

The Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching is a work by Irenaeus, a 2nd-century Christian theologian and bishop. Written originally in Greek, it survives today only in an Armenian translation. This text was likely intended for the instruction of new converts preparing for baptism.1

In this work, Irenaeus aimed to refute Gnosticism, a prevalent intellectual movement of the time that held dualistic beliefs. He defended the validity of the Hebrew Bible (the Christian Old Testament), which Gnostics rejected. Irenaeus's writings helped establish a canon of Scriptures, a creed, and the authority of the episcopal office within the church. The work also reflects the early Christian emphasis on the teachings passed down from the Apostles, a concept known as apostolic succession.123