The Ebionites and the Rejection of Paul: An Examination of Irenaeus' Argument

Irenaeus, in his writings, addresses a group known as the Ebionites, who, among other things, refused to recognize Paul as an apostle. This rejection stemmed from disagreements over doctrine and potentially Paul's mission to the Gentiles. Irenaeus counters this rejection by appealing to the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts, arguing that these texts, accepted by the Ebionites, themselves validate Paul's apostleship.

Luke's Testimony as a Foundation

Irenaeus' argument rests on the premise that the Ebionites accepted the Gospel of Luke. He points out that if they accept Luke's Gospel, they must also accept the Book of Acts, which is also attributed to Luke. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

But again, we allege the same against those who do not recognise Paul as an apostle: that they should either reject the other words of the Gospel which we have come to know through Luke alone, and not make use of them; or else, if they do receive all these, they must necessarily admit also that testimony concerning Paul... (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

The core of Irenaeus' defense lies in the accounts within Acts of Paul's conversion and commissioning.

The Conversion of Saul/Paul

The Book of Acts recounts Saul's (later Paul's) dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus. According to the narrative, the resurrected Christ appeared to Saul, asking, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? I am Jesus Christ, whom thou persecutest." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) This encounter served as a pivotal moment, transforming Saul from a persecutor of Christians into a dedicated apostle.

Paul's Divine Commission

Following his conversion, Ananias is instructed in a vision to go to Paul. The Lord tells Ananias regarding Paul:

"Go thy way; for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name among the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him, from this time, how great things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This passage, as cited by Irenaeus, emphasizes that Paul's apostleship was not self-proclaimed but divinely ordained. He was specifically chosen to bring the message of Christ to the Gentiles, a mission that may have been a point of contention with the more Jewish-focused Ebionites.

Rejecting Paul as Rejecting God's Election

Irenaeus argues that by rejecting Paul, the Ebionites were essentially rejecting God's own choice. He states:

Those, therefore, who do not accept of him [as a teacher], who was chosen by God for this purpose, that he might boldly bear His name, as being sent to the forementioned nations, do despise the election of God, and separate themselves from the company of the apostles. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This is a strong condemnation, framing the Ebionites' rejection of Paul as a rejection of God's plan for the spread of the Gospel.

Irenaeus' Concern for Truth

Irenaeus was concerned with maintaining the "unadulterated rule of truth." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) He defends Paul's apostleship not merely to defend Paul himself but to safeguard the integrity of Christian doctrine and the inclusion of Gentiles within the Christian community.

Conclusion

Irenaeus' defense of Paul against the Ebionites provides valuable insight into the challenges faced by the early Church in establishing its identity and authority. By appealing to Luke's writings, Irenaeus sought to demonstrate that Paul's apostleship was not a matter of personal opinion, but a matter of divine appointment, supported by texts that the Ebionites themselves considered authoritative. This argument highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent and unified understanding of the Gospel message.