Augustine

Annotations:

• Straddled 4-5th C and was vital in the development of Christianity.  He drew heavily on Hellenisitc philosphy to create theology Discussed the nature of God and man, he was the Bishop of Hippo. He writes Confessions and the City of God. He re-established ancient Christian Faith. He became a Christian in 387AD.  Theology: Orignial Sin, Grace, depravity of man, predestination (Both Calvin and Luther 1000 years later used Augustine's theology.) and Trinity. His mission was to participate in the City of God from Isaiah 2.  ("the heavenly city (created) by the love of God

1. The City of God

   Annotations:

   • The context of the book was written into the fall of the Roman Empire and the end of the invasion of Rome by Visigoths.  He was pointing to a new focus, a journey to a new spiritual city. The mission of the church was for people to inhabit the spiritual atmosphere by faith.  He gave context for how to live as believers in a world without empire. Being part of a heavenly city that transcended the earthly conflict and uncertainty. 
2. Gregory

   Annotations:

   • Didn't want to be pope, he inherited a fortune and set up monastic houses secretly to avoid attention.  He was big on leadership and inner spiritual life. He spoke about integrity.  He wanted to be a missionary ( he understood mission) to Britain, but the pope wouldn't let him!