Confessions - Book Vii - Chapter XX
St. Augustine reflects on his journey from philosophical inquiry to true spiritual understanding through Christ, emphasizing humility and the transformative power of Scripture.
In this reflective sermon, St. Augustine recounts his intellectual and spiritual journey from the study of Platonist philosophy to the transformative power of Scripture and Christ. He highlights the importance of humility and the dangers of pride in the pursuit of wisdom. Augustine's testimony offers profound insights into the nature of divine truth and the path to genuine spiritual understanding.
Text
26. By having thus read the books of the Platonists, and having been taught by them to search for the incorporeal Truth, I saw how thy invisible things are understood through the things that are made. And, even when I was thrown back, I still sensed what it was that the dullness of my soul would not allow me to contemplate. I was assured that thou wast, and wast infinite, though not diffused in finite space or infinity; that thou truly art, who art ever the same, varying neither in part nor motion; and that all things are from thee, as is proved by this sure cause alone: that they exist.
Of all this I was convinced, yet I was too weak to enjoy thee. I chattered away as if I were an expert; but if I had not sought thy Way in Christ our Saviour, my knowledge would have turned out to be not instruction but destruction.[222] For now full of what was in fact my punishment, I had begun to desire to seem wise. I did not mourn my ignorance, but rather was puffed up with knowledge. For where was that love which builds upon the foundation of humility, which is Jesus Christ?[223] Or, when would these books teach me this? I now believe that it was thy pleasure that I should fall upon these books before I studied thy Scriptures, that it might be impressed on my memory how I was affected by them; and then afterward, when I was subdued by thy Scriptures and when my wounds were touched by thy healing fingers, I might discern and distinguish what a difference there is between presumption and confession--between those who saw where they were to go even if they did not see the way, and the Way which leads, not only to the observing, but also the inhabiting of the blessed country. For had I first been molded in thy Holy Scriptures, and if thou hadst grown sweet to me through my familiar use of them, and if then I had afterward fallen on those volumes, they might have pushed me off the solid ground of godliness--or if I had stood firm in that wholesome disposition which I had there acquired, I might have thought that wisdom could be attained by the study of those [Platonist] books alone.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The influence of Platonist philosophy on Augustine's early thought
- Recognition of incorporeal Truth through creation
- Limitations of philosophical knowledge without Christ
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II
- The danger of pride and presumption in spiritual knowledge
- The necessity of humility and confession
- Contrast between worldly wisdom and godly wisdom
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III
- The role of Scripture in transforming the soul
- How Scripture leads to true understanding and healing
- The journey from observation to inhabiting the blessed country
Key Quotes
“I was assured that thou wast, and wast infinite, though not diffused in finite space or infinity; that thou truly art, who art ever the same, varying neither in part nor motion.” — St. Augustine
“If I had not sought thy Way in Christ our Saviour, my knowledge would have turned out to be not instruction but destruction.” — St. Augustine
“There is a difference between presumption and confession--between those who saw where they were to go even if they did not see the way, and the Way which leads, not only to the observing, but also the inhabiting of the blessed country.” — St. Augustine
Application Points
- Approach spiritual knowledge with humility, recognizing the limitations of human wisdom.
- Seek transformation through Scripture and Christ rather than relying solely on philosophical reasoning.
- Confess your need for God's guidance to avoid the pitfalls of presumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Augustine study Platonist books before Scripture?
Augustine believed it was God's design so he could recognize the limitations of philosophy and appreciate the fullness of truth found in Scripture.
What does Augustine mean by 'the Way'?
'The Way' refers to Jesus Christ, who leads not only to knowledge but to true spiritual dwelling in God's kingdom.
How does pride affect spiritual growth according to Augustine?
Pride leads to presumption and hinders genuine love and humility, which are essential for true wisdom and spiritual maturity.
What is the difference between presumption and confession?
Presumption is falsely assuming wisdom without humility, while confession acknowledges one's limitations and dependence on God.