In the seventh book, Augustine describes his attempts to
conceptualize the nature of God and where exactly he went wrong. Through the discovery of Neo-Platonic
philosophy, Augustine reconciles his love for philosophy with his new and
growing faith in God through the Catholic Church. This blending of philosophy with religion
will shape and form Augustine’s beliefs for the rest of his life. In the chapters to follow, Augustine
addresses the nature of God.
The writings of the Neo-Platonists help Augustine approach God and
better understand Him, yet they are not enough to quench Augustine’s thirst for
truth. After reading their writings,
Augustine is able to read the Bible with a clearer understanding. It seems that the last piece to Augustine’s
philosophical puzzle is the mediation of Jesus Christ. Through Christ, Augustine can know God and be
delivered from death.
Amongst all of these Neo-Platonic, Manichean, and Catholic views,
how does Augustine discern the truth? Who
is guiding him and by what means?
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