Irenaeus of Lyons (ca. 130-ca. 202) is considered the founder of patristic biblical theology. His works include Against Heresies and Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching. An acquaintance of St. Polycarp and successor to a martyred bishop of Lyons, Irenaeus is also believed to have been martyred in 202. For centuries, he has been venerated as a saint by churches of the East and West.
