The City of God by Saint Augustine - Book XIX

The ultimate reward for the faithful is eternal peace that will not be disturbed by any adversary.
This is described as the "final blessedness" and the "ultimate consummation," which contrasts the peace experienced in mortal life as inferior in comparison to eternal peace.
Definition of Peace: The Psalmist reflects on the city of God, expressing that peace is not just a feature of life but the end goal for all beings.

The happiness provided by eternal peace constitutes the true perfection of the saints.
Key passages from the Scriptures: Reference to Scripture illustrates the connection between peace and God's blessings, as seen in Psalm 147:12-14 and Romans 6:22.
Eternal life is preferred to just peace since it implies a constant state free from life's tribulations.

Humanity universally desires joy and peace; even those who engage in conflict wish for a favorable outcome ending in peace.
Observation: Wars are sought not for their own sake but for the peace that follows victory.
Point to Emphasize: No person desires war for its own sake, but merely seeks a preferable state of peace.

Even the most savage individuals seek peace, even in solitude; peace seems sought universally.
A hypothetical figure, described as fiercely individualistic, even in his cursed peace, exemplifies a longing for internal calm.
Metaphor of Nature: Animals demonstrate peace in their relational structures, which highlights the intrinsic nature of peace across all creation.

The pursuit of peace by those with unjust means is contrasted with true peace desired by the righteous, emphasizing the pure nature of virtuous living.
Ethical reasoning: True virtue relies on a reference to good order, while even perverted behaviors exist within a context of order.
Example: The discussion of a physically injured person reveals that imbalance in order results in her misfortune while allowing lower forms of peace to exist.

Peace is identified across different realms, including:
- Physical Peace: Orderly body arrangement.
- Emotional Peace: Concord of irrational soul appetites.
- Rational Peace: Harmony of knowledge and action of the rational soul.
- Interpersonal Peace: Well-ordered relationships amongst individuals.
- Civic Peace: Order among citizens of society.
- Spiritual Peace: Enjoyment and communion with God.
The discussion reiterates that even misfortune has a degree of natural peace through structured experience despite the afflicted state.

The text argues that peace flows from a natural order governed by divine justice.
Implication: Moral order preserves society amidst disturbances.
The necessity of righteousness correlates with a higher design and realization of virtue that brings peace to the human experience.

Earthly and heavenly citizens have different sources of peace and existence.
The contributions of the citizens of the city of God draw from both visible goods and invisible spiritual truths that guide universally towards God’s peace.
The faith-driven approach encourages earthly inhabitants of the heavenly city to operate within natural laws provided by the earthly city to achieve peace.

The introduction of sin has introduced servitude in humans, deviating from the intended order of dominion over animals rather than each other.
Point of Discussion: Righteous leadership is portrayed as the ideal, acknowledging the burden of authority should not produce power-hungry leaders.
Analyze the evolution of servitude and sin as shaping factors of human condition illustrating poverty of spirit in detachment from God.

Rulers should minimize self-interest and prioritize collective welfare.
Pauline Epistles Highlight: The apostle's admonition regarding responsibility towards one’s household accentuates the moral obligations leaders have.

Individuals may pursue various lifestyles respecting their devotion as long as it upholds God’s commandments.
Roles of Leaders: The expectations of bishops and leaders are grounded in their service roles rather than a quest for honor.
Effective governance is intertwined with the faithful pursuit of truth and the satisfaction of divine command.