The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum Irenaeus on Transubstantiation

You see, regardless of what writer outside of the inspired Scriptures one quotes, there is the possibility of error. How one should take the words of Ignatius is debatable, of course, on the matter of the "real presence" of Christ in the elements. We are to test all spirits. (1Jh 4:1)

Even in Paul's day there were those who were teaching error.

1 Corinthians 11:18-19 (KJV) "For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you."

And the continuation of erroneous teachings was foretold by Peter. (2Pet 2:1) These false teachings spread throughout the Church even more so immediately after the Apostles had died. The ECF have no authority in the Church albeit they are worthy of consideration. ALL uninspired writings are to be examined under the light of God's inspired, infallible and inerrant written Word.