Confessions - Book Xii - Chapter Xxiii
St. Augustine emphasizes the importance of discerning the true meaning behind Scripture, urging believers to seek unity in faith and love while interpreting God's Word.
In this sermon, St. Augustine explores the challenges of interpreting Scripture, particularly the writings of Moses, emphasizing the need for humility, faith, and love in understanding God's Word. He encourages believers to seek unity and diligently inquire into the true meaning behind biblical texts. Augustine's reflections provide timeless guidance for faithful engagement with Scripture.
Text
32. I have heard and considered these theories as well as my weak apprehension allows, and I confess my weakness to Thee, O Lord, though already thou knowest it. Thus I see that two sorts of disagreements may arise when anything is related by signs, even by trustworthy reporters. There is one disagreement about the truth of the things involved; the other concerns the meaning of the one who reports them. It is one thing to inquire as to what is true about the formation of the Creation. It is another thing, however, to ask what that excellent servant of thy faith, Moses, would have wished for the reader and hearer to understand from these words. As for the first question, let all those depart from me who imagine that Moses spoke things that are false. But let me be united with them in thee, O Lord, and delight myself in thee with those who feed on thy truth in the bond of love. Let us approach together the words of thy book and make diligent inquiry in them for thy meaning through the meaning of thy servant by whose pen thou hast given them to us.
Sermon Outline
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I. Understanding Disagreements in Scripture
- Two types of disagreements: truth vs. meaning
- Importance of faithful interpretation
- Avoiding false assumptions about Moses
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II. Unity in Faith and Love
- Seeking unity with fellow believers
- Delighting in God's truth together
- Bond of love as foundation for interpretation
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III. Approaching God's Word Diligently
- Inquiring into the meaning of Scripture
- Respecting the servant Moses' intent
- Allowing God to guide understanding
Key Quotes
“I confess my weakness to Thee, O Lord, though already thou knowest it.” — St. Augustine
“Let all those depart from me who imagine that Moses spoke things that are false.” — St. Augustine
“Let us approach together the words of thy book and make diligent inquiry in them for thy meaning.” — St. Augustine
Application Points
- Approach Scripture with humility and openness to God's guidance.
- Strive for unity and love with fellow believers when discussing faith.
- Diligently seek the intended meaning behind biblical texts rather than focusing solely on literal details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Augustine mean by two types of disagreements?
He distinguishes between disagreements about the factual truth of Scripture and disagreements about the intended meaning behind the words.
Why is unity important in interpreting Scripture?
Unity in faith and love helps believers to rightly understand and cherish God's truth without division.
How should we approach difficult biblical texts?
With humility, seeking God's guidance and the original intent of the biblical authors.
Does Augustine doubt the truth of Moses' writings?
No, he affirms the truthfulness of Moses but calls for careful interpretation of his words.