What does the term "soul-making" imply according to Irenaeus?

The concept of "soul-making," as articulated by Irenaeus, suggests that individuals grow and develop morally and spiritually through their experiences and challenges in life. This idea posits that encountering difficulties and overcoming obstacles plays a crucial role in shaping one's character and virtues.

According to Irenaeus, life is a process of development where humans are not created perfect but have the potential to evolve and reach a greater state of goodness and maturity through their experiences. This perspective sees the trials and tribulations inherent in human existence as opportunities for growth, enabling individuals to cultivate virtues such as courage, compassion, and resilience. It emphasizes the importance of free will in this process, as people must actively engage with their challenges to promote their personal and spiritual development.

By contrasting this view with others, the notion that everyone is born free from sin does not align with the "soul-making" concept, as it implies an inherent human flaw that one must overcome rather than develop through life's challenges. Similarly, the idea that humans do not have free will contradicts the premise of personal growth through choice and response to life's trials. Finally, asserting that people are inherently good does not capture the dynamic process of development Irenaeus describes; rather, it suggests a