Saint You Should Know: Augustine of Hippo

Summary

St. Augustine, a pivotal figure in Church history, is known for his tumultuous early life and profound theological contributions. Despite being a heretic and fathering a child out of wedlock, Augustine's conversion to Christianity and his encounters with St. Ambrose led to a transformation that saved the Church from major controversies. His teachings on original sin and the necessity of divine grace shaped Christian anthropology and continue to influence the Church today. Augustine's personal memoir, 'Confessions,' and 'City of God' are enduring works that reflect his journey and the belief that only God can truly satisfy the human soul.

Takeaways

• 😇 St. Augustine, despite his early life as a heretic and having a child out of wedlock, became one of the most important theologians and leaders in Church history.
• 📚 Augustine was initially attracted to Manichaeism, a gnostic religion focusing on the struggle between good and evil forces, due to its explanation of evil's existence in the world.
• 🗣️ St. Ambrose, the bishop of Milan, introduced Augustine to Neo-Platonic thought, which helped him address the problem of evil and eventually convert to Christianity.
• 🛐 Augustine's conversion to Christianity was followed by an unexpected turn as a bishop, where he faced major controversies and had to defend the Church's teachings.
• 🚫 The Donatist controversy highlighted the debate over the legitimacy of sacraments performed by those who had lapsed in faith, which Augustine argued were still valid due to God's power, not the minister's.
• 🧐 Augustine's teachings on original sin and the human condition were pivotal in the Pelagian controversy, asserting that humans are unable to choose what is right without Christ's redemption due to concupiscence.
• 🔗 His concept of original sin became a foundational element of Christian anthropology, emphasizing the need for God's grace and Christ's sacrifice for salvation.
• 📖 Augustine contributed significantly to the Church with works on creation, just war theory, free will, eschatology, and scripture, earning him the title Doctor of Grace.
• 📝 His 'City of God' and 'Confessions' are considered classics of Western literature, providing spiritual guidance and a personal account of his life's struggles and faith.
• 💭 Augustine's theology, informed by his own sins and struggles, has been influential in shaping Western Christianity's view on grace and the human condition.
• 🗣️ The pronunciation of Augustine's name, as noted in the script, is a matter of linguistic interest, with the common pronunciation in Florida being incorrect.

Q & A

Who is St. Augustine and why is he significant in Church history?

St. Augustine is one of the most important theologians and leaders in Church history. Despite his tumultuous early life, he played a crucial role in saving the Church from two major controversies and is known for his significant contributions to theology, including the concept of original sin.

What was St. Augustine's early life like before his conversion to Christianity?

St. Augustine's early life was marked by indulgence in carnal pleasures and shallow exploits. He was born to a Christian mother but had no interest in religion initially. He moved to Carthage to study rhetoric and enjoyed the city's temptations, even fathering a child out of wedlock.

What was St. Augustine's religious conversion before becoming a Christian?

Before becoming a Christian, Augustine was attracted to the religion of Manichaeism, a gnostic religion focusing on the struggle between good and evil forces. He found comfort in the dualistic belief that a powerful evil force could explain the existence of evil in the world.

How did St. Ambrose influence St. Augustine's life?

St. Ambrose, the bishop of Milan, was a powerful orator and familiar with the Manichees. He introduced Augustine to Neo-Platonic thought, which offered new ways to deal with the problem of evil. This encounter led to Augustine's eventual conversion to Christianity and baptism by Ambrose.

What controversy did St. Augustine face regarding the readmittance of Christians who had sinned mortally?

St. Augustine faced a controversy regarding the readmittance of Christians who had abandoned the faith due to persecution under Emperor Diocletian. The Donatists rejected these individuals, arguing that their sins removed them from the body of Christ. Augustine argued that the sacraments are still valid despite the minister's state of sin.

What was the theological controversy sparked by Pelagius and how did St. Augustine respond?

Pelagius sparked a controversy by arguing that humans could choose what is good on their own nature without the need for Jesus. St. Augustine countered this by developing the concept of original sin and concupiscence, asserting that humans are unable to fully choose what is right without liberation from sin through Christ's sacrifice.

What is the concept of original sin as developed by St. Augustine?

The concept of original sin, as developed by St. Augustine, suggests that every human being suffers from a distortion of desire for what is not good due to the stain of original sin inherited from Adam and Eve. This concupiscence blinds us, making us unable to fully choose what is right without divine intervention.

How did St. Augustine's personal struggles influence his theology?

St. Augustine's personal struggles with lust and his early failings significantly informed his theology. His experiences led him to emphasize the need for God's grace and the insufficiency of human efforts to achieve salvation without divine intervention.

What are some of the major contributions of St. Augustine to the Church?

St. Augustine made major contributions to the Church in various fields, including creation, just war theory, free will, eschatology, and scripture. He is also known for his pastoral works, such as 'City of God' and 'Confessions,' which are considered classics of Western literature.

What is the significance of St. Augustine's statement 'Our souls are restless until they rest in You, Lord.'?

This statement captures the essence of St. Augustine's spiritual journey and his realization that true satisfaction and peace can only be found in God. It reflects the idea that all human longings can ultimately be fulfilled by God alone.

How did St. Augustine's teachings on grace impact Western Christianity?

St. Augustine's teachings on grace provided a foundation for understanding that no matter how greatly one has sinned or strayed from God, God's grace is sufficient for redemption. This has been a central tenet in Western Christianity, emphasizing the role of divine mercy in salvation.

Outlines

00:00

😇 Transformation of St. Augustine: From Heretic to Theologian

This paragraph introduces St. Augustine, a prominent figure in Church history, who paradoxically had a tumultuous early life filled with heresy and sin. Augustine, known for his famous prayer for chastity, initially pursued worldly pleasures and even fathered a child out of wedlock. His journey to religious conversion was unconventional, involving a period of Manichaeism, a gnostic religion, before being introduced to Neo-Platonic thought by St. Ambrose, which led to his eventual baptism and life as a Christian. Despite his plans for a quiet, monastic life, Augustine was thrust into the role of a bishop, where he faced and resolved significant theological controversies, thus becoming a saint and a doctor of the Church.

05:03

🛡️ St. Augustine's Theological Triumphs and Challenges

The second paragraph delves into the major theological controversies that Augustine addressed, starting with the issue of readmitting Christians who had committed grave sins, particularly during the Diocletian persecution. The Donatist controversy is highlighted, where Donatus Magnus and his followers believed that those who had abandoned the faith needed to be rebaptized. Augustine argued that the validity of sacraments depends on God's power, not the minister's state. The paragraph also discusses the Pelagian controversy, where Pelagius claimed that humans could choose good without divine assistance, a notion Augustine vehemently opposed, emphasizing the concept of original sin and the need for divine grace for redemption. Augustine's teachings were affirmed in Church councils, and he contributed significantly to various theological fields. His spiritual writings, such as 'City of God' and 'Confessions,' continue to be influential, reflecting his personal struggles and the ultimate realization that only God can satisfy the human soul.

Keywords

💡St. Augustine

St. Augustine, also known as Saint Augustine of Hippo, was a theologian and philosopher who is considered one of the most important figures in the development of Western Christianity. His life story, as depicted in the video, illustrates a transformation from a life of sin to a life of faith and service to the Church. His theological contributions, such as the concept of original sin and his emphasis on God's grace, continue to influence Christian thought today.

💡Heresy

Heresy refers to beliefs or views that are contrary to the orthodox doctrines of a religion. In the context of the video, St. Augustine is initially associated with Manichaeism, a religion considered heretical by the Catholic Church, due to its dualistic view of good and evil. His eventual rejection of heresy and acceptance of the Church's teachings is a central part of his narrative.

💡Manichaeism

Manichaeism is an ancient Gnostic religion that Augustine was attracted to due to its dualistic explanation of good and evil. It posits a cosmic struggle between the forces of light and darkness. The video mentions Augustine's time as a Manichaean before his conversion to Christianity, highlighting the journey of his spiritual beliefs.

💡Neo-Platonic thought

Neo-Platonism is a philosophical system derived from the teachings of Plato, which was popular among Christian intellectuals during Augustine's time. It influenced Augustine's understanding of evil and his eventual conversion to Christianity. The video describes how St. Ambrose introduced Augustine to these ideas, which helped him to reconcile the problem of evil within a monotheistic framework.

💡Original Sin

Original sin is a Christian doctrine that suggests all humans inherit a tainted nature and a proclivity to sin due to the first sin of Adam and Eve. Augustine is credited with developing this concept, which is a key part of his theology and is discussed in the video as central to understanding human nature and the need for salvation.

💡Pelagianism

Pelagianism is a hereetical belief system that emerged in opposition to Augustine's teachings on original sin. It posits that humans have the natural ability to choose good and achieve salvation without divine grace. The video outlines the controversy sparked by Pelagius and how Augustine's teachings on the necessity of God's grace countered this view.

💡Donatist Controversy

The Donatist Controversy was a major schism within the early Christian Church, where Donatists believed that the Church's sacraments were invalid if performed by clergy who had lapsed in faith under persecution. Augustine argued against this, stating that the efficacy of sacraments comes from God, not the moral state of the minister, as illustrated in the video.

💡Baptism

Baptism is a Christian sacrament that signifies the initiation into the faith and the forgiveness of sins. In the context of the Donatist Controversy mentioned in the video, the legitimacy of baptism performed by lapsed clergy was a point of contention, with Augustine asserting that baptism retains its validity regardless of the minister's state.

💡Sacrament

A sacrament in Christianity is a religious ritual considered to have been instituted by Jesus Christ. The video discusses the sacraments in the context of the Donatist Controversy, emphasizing Augustine's belief that sacraments are valid as they are divinely instituted and not dependent on the moral worth of the person administering them.

💡Doctor of Grace

The title 'Doctor of Grace' is an honorary title given to St. Augustine by the Catholic Church, recognizing his profound contributions to theology and his emphasis on the role of God's grace in salvation. The video highlights this title as a testament to his influence and the significance of his teachings on the Church.

💡City of God

The 'City of God' is one of Augustine's most famous works, where he contrasts the temporal nature of earthly cities with the eternal city of God. The video refers to this work as a classic of Western literature that continues to be read and studied for its insights into the relationship between the spiritual and temporal realms.

Highlights

Contrary to the typical image of a saint, St. Augustine had a tumultuous early life, including heresy and out-of-wedlock childbearing.

St. Augustine is recognized as one of the most important theologians and leaders in Church history despite his early life.

Augustine's famous prayer reflects his struggle with chastity and his journey towards holiness.

He was initially attracted to Manichaeism, a religion focusing on the dualism of good and evil, seeking answers to life's questions.

St. Ambrose's influence and Neo-Platonic thought played a crucial role in Augustine's conversion to Christianity.

Augustine's unexpected ordination as a bishop, despite his plans for a quiet monastic life.

His involvement in resolving the Donatist controversy, emphasizing the validity of sacraments regardless of the minister's sins.

Augustine's teachings on the necessity of God's grace for salvation, countering Pelagius' views on human autonomy.

The development of the concept of original sin and its impact on Christian anthropology.

Augustine's significant contributions to various theological fields, earning him the title 'Doctor of Grace'.

His pastoral works, including 'City of God' and 'Confessions', which remain influential in Western literature.

The personal memoir 'Confessions' captures Augustine's life struggles and his faith journey.

Augustine's realization that only God can satisfy the deepest longings of the human soul.

The importance of recognizing God's presence within us, as highlighted by Augustine's spiritual insights.

The impact of Augustine's personal failings on his theology and the broader understanding of grace in Western Christianity.

Critiques of Augustine's views on human nature and sexuality, and their lasting effects on Western thought.

The enduring relevance of Augustine's teachings on grace and the role of God in our moral and spiritual lives.

The humorous correction of the pronunciation of 'Augustine', highlighting cultural misunderstandings.

Transcripts

When you think someone who is a saint and doctor of the Church, you probably think of

someone who lived a long, holy life, who was groomed from a young age in the teachings

of the Church, who never held heretical beliefs or committed terrible sins.

You probably don’t think of someone who spent 33 years as a heretic, had a child out

of wedlock, and who’s most famous prayer is “Lord, make me chaste—just not yet.”

And yet, that is our St. Augustine, one of the most important theologians and leaders

in Church history.

He lived a tumultuous early life, but ended up saving the Church from two major controversies,

and is certainly a saint you should know.

What did he do and how is he still relevant today?

This is Catholicism in Focus.

Few saints can say they’ve experienced more carnal pleasures and shallow exploits than

Augustine.

Born in 354 to a Christian mother, Augustine had no interest for religion in his early

life, moving, instead to Carthage to study rhetoric, and enjoying the temptations of

the big city.

That line about “make me chaste—just not yet?”

Yeah, he admits that he used that as a pickup line… it apparently worked, because he fathered

a child out of wedlock while in studies.

At some point along the way, he did have a religious conversion… but exactly the one

you’re hoping for.

Seeking answers to life’s deep questions but indignant at the images of God he saw

in the Old Testament, he became attracted to the religion of Manichaeism, a gnostic

religion that focused on the struggle between good and evil forces.

For Augustine, dualism, having a powerful evil force, helped to explain how God could

be good and yet evil exist in the world, but more importantly, why he felt so much evil

within him.

Having made so many mistakes, particularly of the sexual nature, it was comforting to

think that some powerful being might be behind it.

Fortunately for Augustine and the Church, though, his life with the Manichaeans would

end up being short-lived.

In 384, at the age of 30, he was appointed as the professor of rhetoric in Milan, where

he would meet his match: St. Ambrose.

The bishop of the city and powerful orator, Ambrose was familiar with the Manichees and

knew how to exploit their flaws.

Trained in rhetoric but also philosophy, he introduced Augustine to Neo-Platonic thought,

popular at the time among Christian intellectuals, offering him entirely new ways to deal with

the problem with evil.

Augustine eventually became a Christian, baptized by Ambrose in Milan in 387, and planned to

live a quiet life of study and prayer as a quasi-monk.

Oh plans… how God laughs at them.

Shortly after his baptism, he traveled to Hippo to recruit members to his monastery, he was

surrounded by the congregation, seized, and dragged to the bishop, who, get this… ordained

him on the spot, something that sounds absolutely extraordinary to us today… but was actually

kind of normal back then.

He eventually became the bishop of Hippo himself, turning the bishop’s quarters into a monastery,

requiring his priests to take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and lived happily

ever after studying and praying with no controversy whatsoever… the end.

Yeah no.

He had the wrong job at the wrong time to think he could live out his days as a peaceful monk.

The Church was in turmoil, and he was too gifted not to get involved.

The first of two major controversies that he faced dealt with the issue of readmitting

Christians that had sinned mortally, particularly those who had abandoned the faith due to persecution.

Under the rule of the Emperor Diocletian, some priests and bishops had handed over the

scriptures of the Church and fled for their lives.

After things were safe, some tried to come back, wanting to serve again as leaders.

Donatus Magnus and his followers, called Donatists, rejected them—their sins removed them from

the body of Christ, and so they needed to be rebaptized.

Any sacrament they celebrated would otherwise be deemed illegitimate and invalid.

Given the circumstances, and maybe even today, this position may seem very attractive.

People want to know that they are a part of the pure Church, the one that has remained

faithful—not one in which its ministers are traitors.

Given the choice between being baptized by someone who denied the faith and one who remained

faithful, we’re going to pick the latter every time.

But this is flawed logic.

What Augustine rightly points out is that it is not the faith or power of the minister

that effects the sacrament, but the faith and power of God.

Even if the minister is in a state of mortal sin, the sacraments are still valid.

Given the priest abuse crisis in the Catholic Church, this is good news for everyone.

We strive for holiness, but the Church here on earth is a mix of saints and sinners, and

God can work through us all.

But do we even need God to do what is right?

This was the question of a man named Pelagius who sparked an even bigger controversy

just a few decades later.

His argument was this: Adam and Eve sinned, and that made things worse on earth,

for sure.

Sin is bad.

But it doesn’t mean that any of us are permanently damaged to the point that we can’t, on our

own, from our own nature, choose what is good.

Jesus came to show us the way, but he is at most a guide—some don’t need him at all

to get to heaven.

Even if you’ve never studied theology a day in your life… this should sound troublesome

to you: we don’t need Jesus?

Given that Augustine still had quite a bit of guilt for the sins of his past life, his

perspective on the human condition was not this optimistic.

Because of the stain of original sin, a concept that he is credited with developing, each

and every one of us suffers from what is called concupiscence, a distortion of our desire

for what is not good.

While God created us as reasonable beings, our carnal natures blind us, leaving us unable

to fully choose what is right.

It is for this reason that we need Jesus Christ’s example, but even more than this, we need

liberation from sin.

We are unable to save ourselves, and so rely on God’s mercy and Christ’s sacrifice

to redeem us.

Ultimately, Pelagius was condemned as a heretic, and most of St. Augustine’s teachings on Christian

anthropology, sin, and redemption were codified in the Council of Carthage and Synod of Orange,

marking the first official records of Original Sin in Church teaching.

Beyond saving the Church from these two controversies, Augustine served as a faithful pastor

and influential thinker for decades, making major contributions to the church in the field of

creation, just war theory, free will, eschatology, and scripture, and ultimately receiving the

much-deserved title, Doctor of Grace.

Spiritually, he wrote many pastoral works meant to evangelize and catechize the faithful,

classics of western literature that are still read today.

His City of God compares the Roman, earthly city to the eschatological reality of the

heavenly city yet to come, and his personal memoir, Confessions, arguably the most famous

work of the ancient world, captures the struggles of his life and the faith that guided it all.

Through folly, Augustine learned that nothing could satisfy him from the outside world,

only God, “Our souls are restless until they rest in You, Lord.”

Luckily for us, it was not our responsibility to find God, for as he learned, “The Lord

is closer to us than we are to ourselves.”

No, Augustine never forgot that he was a sinner.

It was his early failings, his struggle with lust, that, for better or for worse, informed

his theology, guided his relationship with God, and significantly affected Western Christianity.

Some have argued that his inability to deal with his own sins left us with a bleak view

of human nature and sexuality, and there might be some truth to that, but it is far more

true that it led to an incredible foundation in grace.

No matter how badly we’ve sinned or how far we’ve strayed from God, his grace is

enough.

It is God who created us, God who inspires us to do good, and ultimately, only God who

can fulfill our greatest longings.

St. Augustine taught this… and our Church benefits from this even today.

Oh, and did you notice that it’s Augustine, not Augustine…

I’m sorry to the good people of Florida, but you pronounce the name of your city wrong.