Description
Book SynopsisAugustine of Hippo (354-430), priest, bishop and theologian, is one of the most important figures in the development of Western Christianity. He is known as much for his long interior struggle that ended with conversion and baptism at age thirty-two as for his influential teachings on human will, original sin and the theology of just war. Cherished as a model for the pursuit of a life of spiritual grace and criticized for his theory of predestination, Augustine is recognized as a living expression of the passion to understand and communicate the deeper meanings of human experience. With fresh translations drawn from Augustine's voluminous writings and probing facing-page commentary, Augustinian scholar Dr. Joseph Kelley provides insight into the mind and heart of this foundational Christian figure. Kelley illustrates how Augustine's keen intellect, rhetorical skill and passionate faith reshaped the theological language and dogmatic debates of early Christianity. He explores the stormy religious arguments and political upheavals of the fifth century, Augustine's controversial teachings on predestination, sexuality and marriage and the deep undercurrents of Augustine's spiritual quest that still inspire Christians today.
Trade Review"Rescues the eloquence and relevance of Saint Augustine for contemporary readers. This is a book for students, scholars—and any earnest seeker in search of a great companion." —James Carroll, author, Practicing Catholic and Constantine's Sword "An important contribution…. Combines both the technical expertise of an Augustine scholar and the communication skills that make his work appealing to [non-scholarly] readers. One can only hope that this book is the first of many on Saint Augustine to flow from Dr. Kelley's pen." —Donald X. Burt, OSA, professor emeritus, Villanova University “Becoming acquainted with Christianity necessarily entails encountering Saint Augustine. Joseph Kelley’s illuminating anthology is a compelling introduction to the ancient church’s most profound thinker.” —Professor Jane E. Merdinger, Augustinian Heritage Institute; author, Rome and the African Church in the Time of Augustine
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction A Note on the Translation Part One:The Journey of Faith Unquiet Hearts Keep On Moving Searching Minds Faith Seeking Understanding Doubt and Skepticism The Will to Believe Give Me Chastity—But Not Yet The Will to Power The Divided Will Part Two: Through Sin to Grace The Devil Made Me Do It Our Sins Are Our Own Original Sin The Disorder in Sin The Nature of Evil Paralysis of Will Saved by Grace: The Pelagian Controversy Give What You Command Conversion Predestination Reconsideration Part Three: Intent upon God Knowing God Loving God God as Trinity Jesus Christ The Holy Spirit Loving One Another Friendship Community The Church The Donatists The Sacraments Ministry Prayer Part Four: While in the World Creation Concupiscence Marriage Women Politics Justice War Peace Death Suggestions for Further Study Index of Texts
