August 21, 2006

Book of the Week: The City of God

When I was in Bible college, I aquired many books that I swore I would read when I had the time. I don't know that I have any more time now than I did when I was in college, but I have determined to read as many of my books as possible.

As incentive for me to do that, and also as a source of edification for those who read this blog, I am instituting a "Book of the Week" section. I will read (or try to read) one book a week, and give you a review of it on this site, along with and Amazon link where you can purchase it, should you be interested.

I remember my theology professor, Mr. Stutzman, telling us that we should "treat our minds" by reading St. Augustine's "The City of God". Six years after I graduated, I took him up on it. It has been slow going, and I am still digesting the last few chapters. It has, however, been a treat for my mind. Thanks, Mr. Stutzman.

"The City of God" was written to counter the pagan argument that Christianity was responsible for the destruction of Rome. It contrasts the earthly city (Rome, as representative of this world's system) with the city of God. As a defense of Christianity to a world of pagans, it is quickly regaining relevance in today's society. I heartily recommend it to the serious reader, with two cautions:

1. It is not fluff. Even the abridged version I have been reading has been quite the mental excercise.
2. Augustine lived in the days when the Roman Catholic church was in it's embryonic form, and some of their nascent heresies seep into his writings.

However, for a soaring defense of the Christian faith, you cannot do better than "The City of God".

For more books that are related to the subject matter of this blog, check out my library and my bookstore.

Posted by Andrew on August 21, 2006 9:45 PM.

Comments

Posted by: Lilize at August 22, 2006 2:35 PM