Genesis 1:27: "God created man in His own image…" (Signifies that man was created in goodness).
Free Will: God endows man with free will, enabling the power to choose.
Mark 7:15: "There is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile…" (Emphasizes internal sin).
Free will is a fundamental aspect of humanity as it allows individuals to choose between good and evil.
Defined as an act of pride and disobedience to God, when man sees himself as equal to God.
The senses perceive delights (includes sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing).
Involves delighting in sense impressions rather than referring them back to God.
Actual sin occurs when the will consents to act on the sin.
Humanity’s tendency towards sin creates harm to self, others, and the world.
Genesis 3:9: “The Lord God called to the man, and said to him, "Where are you?" (Illustrates God’s continued relationship with fallen humanity).
Doctor Gratiae: Title reflecting Augustine's teachings on grace.
God’s grace is unmerited love and favor, transforming human will towards goodness.
Redemption occurs through grace, which becomes incarnate in Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:20-21: "Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more."
Confessions: Personal account highlights prayer's transformative power, acknowledging sin and God’s mercy.
"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You."
"Too late have I loved You, O Beauty ever ancient, ever new…"
"Grant me chastity and continence, but not yet."
Prayer is essential for connecting with God and expressing longing for Him.
Prayer involves developing a loving relationship with God, not just asking for things.
Augustine emphasized humility and sincerity during prayer, seeking God's will.
Active reflection on Scripture or experiences of God; requires focus and openness.
Stillness, fostering an intimate union with God beyond words.
Utilizes scripture for prayer expression; connects personal prayers with tradition.
Informal and conversational approach, encouraging a personal relationship with God.
Shapes hearts and minds to be receptive to grace; deepens virtues like love and trust.
Prayer is about conforming hearts to God’s plan, fostering humility and trust.
Prayer arises from a longing for God; desires should focus on seeking Him.
Trust in God’s wisdom; He provides what is truly good.
Continuous prayer builds and strengthens faith.
True prayer expresses love for God and others, seeking the well-being of all.
Emphasis on living harmoniously towards God with one heart and one soul (Acts 4:32).
Commitment to prayer at set times; use spaces appropriately for prayer and meditation.
Encourage fasting and self-denial, ensuring balance with health considerations.
Promote behavior that does not seek attention; foster good life and good character.
Work should benefit the community and prioritize collective over individual gains.
Urge the resolution of conflicts quickly to prevent escalations of anger into hatred.
Encourage obedience to superiors with respect; essential for divine harmony.
Actions should reflect a spirit of charity and a love for spiritual beauty, living in freedom under grace.
Notes on Lessons from St. Augustine
Genesis 1:27: "God created man in His own image…" (Signifies that man was created in goodness).
Free Will: God endows man with free will, enabling the power to choose.
Mark 7:15: "There is nothing outside a person that by going in can defile…" (Emphasizes internal sin).
Free will is a fundamental aspect of humanity as it allows individuals to choose between good and evil.
Defined as an act of pride and disobedience to God, when man sees himself as equal to God.
The senses perceive delights (includes sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing).
Involves delighting in sense impressions rather than referring them back to God.
Actual sin occurs when the will consents to act on the sin.
Humanity’s tendency towards sin creates harm to self, others, and the world.
Genesis 3:9: “The Lord God called to the man, and said to him, "Where are you?" (Illustrates God’s continued relationship with fallen humanity).
Doctor Gratiae: Title reflecting Augustine's teachings on grace.
God’s grace is unmerited love and favor, transforming human will towards goodness.
Redemption occurs through grace, which becomes incarnate in Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:20-21: "Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more."
Confessions: Personal account highlights prayer's transformative power, acknowledging sin and God’s mercy.
"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You."
"Too late have I loved You, O Beauty ever ancient, ever new…"
"Grant me chastity and continence, but not yet."
Prayer is essential for connecting with God and expressing longing for Him.
Prayer involves developing a loving relationship with God, not just asking for things.
Augustine emphasized humility and sincerity during prayer, seeking God's will.
Active reflection on Scripture or experiences of God; requires focus and openness.
Stillness, fostering an intimate union with God beyond words.
Utilizes scripture for prayer expression; connects personal prayers with tradition.
Informal and conversational approach, encouraging a personal relationship with God.
Shapes hearts and minds to be receptive to grace; deepens virtues like love and trust.
Prayer is about conforming hearts to God’s plan, fostering humility and trust.
Prayer arises from a longing for God; desires should focus on seeking Him.
Trust in God’s wisdom; He provides what is truly good.
Continuous prayer builds and strengthens faith.
True prayer expresses love for God and others, seeking the well-being of all.
Emphasis on living harmoniously towards God with one heart and one soul (Acts 4:32).
Commitment to prayer at set times; use spaces appropriately for prayer and meditation.
Encourage fasting and self-denial, ensuring balance with health considerations.
Promote behavior that does not seek attention; foster good life and good character.
Work should benefit the community and prioritize collective over individual gains.
Urge the resolution of conflicts quickly to prevent escalations of anger into hatred.
Encourage obedience to superiors with respect; essential for divine harmony.
Actions should reflect a spirit of charity and a love for spiritual beauty, living in freedom under grace.