Christ’s role as teacher does not mean that Irenaeus has succumbed to the esoteric understanding of salvation that his Gnostic opponents put forward. Sin is not mere forgetfulness for Irenaeus, and salvation is more than intellectual knowledge. Christ’s obedience in the face of temptation doesn’t just expose Satan’s true colors; it also inspires us to live in obedience to the only true God. One way in which Christ conquers sin and death is by gaining followers who