First Presbyterian Church - The First 500 - 9/11/25 - PBS

Written between 413-426 CE, 'The City of God' is a response to pagan claims that the sack of Rome by barbarians was a consequence of the abolition of pagan worship by Christian emperors. Augustine argues that Christianity saved the city from complete destruction and that Rome’s fall was due to internal moral decay. The book divides humanity into two metaphorical cities: the City of God, characterized by devotion to God, and the City of Man, characterized by self-love. It also outlines Augustine’s theological interpretation of human history, from the Creation to the Second Coming of Christ, and critiques paganism and pagan philosophy while presenting the true history of the City of God.

In 'The Lost History of Christianity', Philip Jenkins reveals the forgotten story of Christianity's spread across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, highlighting its significant presence before the rise of Islam. The book explores how these early Christian communities thrived and eventually declined, often due to persecution and cultural shifts. Jenkins provides a nuanced understanding of the complex interactions between Christianity and other religions in these regions.

Confessions, by St. Augustine, is a deeply personal and introspective autobiography that traces Augustine's spiritual journey from a life of sin and worldly pursuits to his conversion to Christianity. The work explores themes of faith, doubt, love, and the search for God. Augustine's honest and vulnerable portrayal of his own struggles makes the book relatable and inspiring. The Confessions is considered a seminal work of Christian literature, influencing countless theologians and writers. Its enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal human experiences and its profound insights into the nature of faith and the human condition.