A Persistent Love (Part 2)

St. Augustine was a famous theologian born in AD 354 in present-day Algeria. He wrote on big ideas in Christianity, such as the importance of the church and salvation by grace. He also devoted time to answering questions about Christianity in general. Because of what Augustine contributed to the church, you might think, “Wow, this guy must have had a pretty clean track record when it comes to sin,” and that is simply untrue.

Like all of us, Augustine was an imperfect human and a sinner. In his early years, he searched for meaning and answers to life’s big questions, eventually devoting himself to some pretty messed-up ideologies in the process. Augustine also struggled with sexual immorality for years, and he was wracked with guilt.

But he didn’t convert to Christianity until he was 31. One day, when he was feeling particularly grieved by his sin, he heard a childlike voice calling him to pick up the Bible and read. He did and found himself reading Romans 13:13-14, which led him to put his trust in Jesus as his Savior from sin and death.

After his conversion, Augustine went on to become the bishop of Hippo. During his lifetime, he wrote Confessions, City of God, On Christian Doctrine, and more. His writings are still held in high regard by many in the church today.

Augustine comments on our relationship with God and sums up his discovery of Christianity in his quote from Confessions, saying, “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.†Augustine’s restless heart found rest in Jesus’ grace—the only place for any restless heart. • Naomi Vroegop

• How do you feel knowing Augustine struggled with sins such as lust?

• Does it surprise you that Jesus used a broken person like Augustine to further His church? Why or why not?

Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. Romans 13:14 (NLT)

Read Verses:

Luke 18:1-8; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7; 2 Timothy 2:24-26