Iraneus' Theodicy

Question 1

What did Iraneus call the process of achieving moral perfection?

Answer 1

Travail

Question 2

Give a quote from a philosopher which applies to Iraneus’ theodicy.

Answer 2

“We would never learn the art of goodness in a world designed as a complete paradise.” ~ Swinburne

Question 3

What is the function of purgatory?

Answer 3

It is a ‘place’ where after death we can continue to develop our character and achieve a state of moral perfection even if we die in a state of moral immaturity, thus enabling ALL humans to achieve perfection.

Question 4

How did John Hick describe the gap between humans and God?

Answer 4

‘The Epistemic Distance’

Question 5

What is the function of evil according to Iraneus?

Answer 5

It is a necessary by-product of humanity’s spiritual journey, as essential to enable us to grow in the likeness of God. It has been described by some as ‘character building’.

Question 6

Who is responsible for the presence of evil and suffering in the world, according to Iraneus?

Answer 6

God.

Question 7

Does Iraneus believe free will to be a good thing?

Answer 7

Yes, as it allows us moral choice. Doing the right thing is more valuable if you have actually purposefully chosen to do it.

Question 8

Iraneus believed that only ‘the worthy’ will enter heaven. True or false?

Answer 8

False. Iraneus believed that eventually we will ALL be able to enter heaven. Even if we die in a state of moral immaturity, we can still grow and develop in purgatory.

Question 9

Iraneus believed that evil and suffering were a positive force. True or false?

Answer 9

True. They allow is to grow and develop.

Question 10

Is Iraneus’ theodicy ‘soul making’ or ‘soul deciding’?

Answer 10

Soul making.