Irenaeus on Christ as the Treasure Hidden in Scripture

Irenaeus, an early Church Father, offers a compelling perspective on the relationship between the Scriptures and Christ. In his writings, he presents a view where Christ is not merely a subject in the Scriptures, but rather the very essence and treasure hidden within them. This understanding provides a rich framework for interpreting the Old Testament and appreciating the continuity between the Old and New Covenants.

Christ as the Fulfillment of Prophecy

Irenaeus emphasizes that the Scriptures are filled with foreshadowings and types that point towards Christ. He highlights that before the advent of Christ, prophecies often appear enigmatic and ambiguous. However, with the arrival of Christ and the fulfillment of these predictions, the prophecies gain a clear and certain exposition. He uses the analogy of a treasure hidden in a field, which represents the world. This treasure, Christ, is hidden in the Scriptures, revealed through types and parables.

The Jews and the Christian Interpretation

Irenaeus contrasts the Jewish and Christian understanding of the law. He argues that when the law is read by the Jews, it appears like a fable because they lack the key to unlock its true meaning: the advent of the Son of God in human nature. In contrast, when Christians read the same scriptures, they find a treasure brought to light by the cross of Christ. This treasure enriches understanding, reveals God's wisdom, and declares His dispensations concerning humanity. It also foreshadows the kingdom of Christ and the inheritance of the holy Jerusalem.

Understanding Leads to Glory

Irenaeus connects understanding the Scriptures with spiritual transformation and glory. He references Daniel, stating that those who understand will shine like the brightness of the firmament, and the righteous will shine as stars forever. This suggests that grasping the Christ-centered message of the Scriptures leads to a divine glory that transforms individuals.

Christ's Own Testimony

Irenaeus points to Christ's own actions after His resurrection as further evidence. He notes that Christ himself proved to his disciples from the Scriptures that He must suffer, enter into His glory, and that remission of sins should be preached in His name throughout the world. This underscores the importance of interpreting Scripture in light of Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

Bringing Forth New and Old

Ultimately, Irenaeus presents the Christian interpreter of Scripture as a householder who brings forth from his treasure things both new and old. This suggests that the Christian faith does not discard the Old Testament but rather understands it in a new light, enriched by the revelation of Christ. The Old Testament, therefore, becomes a valuable resource for understanding God's plan of salvation, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ.