Christian Orthodoxy in the Second Century

“In this clear, short booklet, Choi presents the way in which Irenaeus contrasts the message of Jesus and his apostles with the corruptions that emerged in the earliest post-apostolic period. Choi’s book is more than relevant today. Just as it was then, God’s salvation plan proves to be more logical and beautiful than contemporary human thinking.”


—Gie Vleugels, professor emeritus of New Testament and early Christianity, ETF, Leuven, and author of The Odes of Solomon: Syriac Text and English Translation with Text Critical and Explanatory Notes





“The second century is a critical period for understanding orthodox Christian doctrine—and its competitors. Some historical theologians, however, view the second century as relatively unimportant for understanding Christian doctrine. Others portray the second century as a mishmash of competing ‘Christian’ groups, none of which have the right to lay claim to the true faith passed down by the apostles. Into this contentious space, Michael Choi writes thoughtfully and carefully, analyzing relevant sections in Justin Martyr, the Epistula Apostolorum, and particularly the writings of Irenaeus to highlight the nature of orthodoxy in the second century. I am happy to recommend this helpful work.”


—Kenneth Berding, professor of New Testament and early Christianity, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, and author of Polycarp and Paul





“Christian Orthodoxy in the Second Century laboriously shows what really happened during that pivotal moment in Church history. Irenaeus and Justin meticulously articulated the biblical faith against new teachings that deviated from the gospel. I highly recommend this book, all the more so because of constant attempts by contemporary theologians to derail the orthodox faith of some.”


—Ryun Chang, professor of theology, Kairos Pacific University, and author of Theologizing in the Radical Middle