City of God

Definition

The City of God is a foundational concept in Augustine's political theology, representing a spiritual realm where the faithful live in communion with God, contrasting sharply with the earthly city, which is marked by sin and temporal concerns. Augustine’s work explores the relationship between these two cities, illustrating how they reflect different values and destinies, ultimately emphasizing the transient nature of earthly power compared to the eternal nature of divine rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustine wrote 'The City of God' in response to the fall of Rome in 410 CE, arguing that true security and peace can only be found in the City of God.
2. The City of God is characterized by its focus on eternal values such as love, justice, and community among believers, contrasting with the self-serving nature of the Earthly City.
3. Augustine believed that the City of God exists within history but is ultimately separate from earthly governance and institutions.
4. The conflict between the City of God and the Earthly City illustrates Augustine's view on the nature of human existence: a struggle between spiritual aspiration and worldly temptation.
5. Augustine's thought influenced later Christian political philosophy, particularly concerning the role of faith in public life and how to navigate secular authority.

Review Questions

• How does Augustine differentiate between the City of God and the Earthly City?
  • Augustine contrasts the City of God with the Earthly City by highlighting their fundamental differences in values and ultimate purposes. The City of God is centered on love for God and eternal truths, while the Earthly City is driven by selfish desires and temporal power. This distinction illustrates Augustine's belief that while both cities coexist in this world, only those aligned with the City of God will find true fulfillment and peace in eternity.
• Discuss the implications of Augustine's concept of Divine Providence in relation to his understanding of human history as presented in 'The City of God.'
  • In 'The City of God,' Augustine argues that Divine Providence plays a crucial role in guiding human history toward its ultimate purpose. He posits that despite the apparent chaos and suffering in the Earthly City—such as Rome's fall—God’s plan remains sovereign. This perspective reassures believers that their struggles have meaning within a divine framework and emphasizes that historical events serve to fulfill God's greater narrative for humanity.
• Evaluate how Augustine's views on the relationship between church and state are shaped by his distinction between the City of God and the Earthly City.
  • Augustine's distinction between the City of God and the Earthly City significantly shapes his views on church-state relations. He argues that while Christians live within both realms, their ultimate allegiance lies with the spiritual community governed by God's laws. This leads to a nuanced approach where he acknowledges the need for earthly governance but maintains that true justice and moral order can only be fully realized through adherence to divine principles. Augustine thus advocates for a balance where civil authorities are respected but should not interfere with spiritual matters.

Related terms

Earthly City: The Earthly City refers to the secular, human-centered society that prioritizes material desires and political power over spiritual fulfillment.

Divine Providence: Divine Providence is the theological concept that God governs and sustains the universe, guiding events according to His divine plan.

Eschatology: Eschatology is the study of last things or end times in theology, focusing on ultimate destinies such as death, judgment, and the afterlife.