Abingdon Pillars of Theology is a series for the college and seminary classroom designed to help students grasp the basic and necessary facts, influence, and significance of major theologians. Written by major scholars, these books will outline the context, methodology, organizing principles, method, primary contributions, and major writings of people who have shaped theology as we know it today.

For many, all theology subsequent to Augustine is a footnote. He is influential, even today, because of his doctrinal formulations, but even more important, Augustine is a stimulating thinker and constant inquirer.

Starting with his philosophical interest in Platonism, which set the framework for his thinking, Eugene TeSelle examines the major themes of Augustine's thought following a more or less chronological order including human fulfillment, evil, creation, the human self, the church and its doctrines, the course of human history, and the relation of Christianity to political matters. Even those who think he was wrong in his conclusions can respect Augustine's willingness to confront problems and think through their implications.

Preface

Chronology

Introduction

1. Augustine’s Journey

2. Reason’s Quest: Augustine the Platonist

3. Why Evil? Answering the Manichaeans

4. Time and Creation: Threats to Freedom?

5. Original Sin and Predestination: Threats to Freedom?

6. The Church and the Sacraments: Unity in Grace across Space and Time

7. Trinity and Incarnation: Shaping Doctrine in the West

8. Citizens and Sojourners: Living in Two Cities

9. The Sunset Years: Creating a Heritage

10. Footnotes, Queries, and Obituaries to Augustine

Definitions

Notes

Selected Bibliography

Scripture Index

Citations from Augustine’s Works

Citations from Other Ancient Authors

Citations from Modern Authors

Index of Topics, Places, and Persons