Scripture, Possessions, Distractions

Earlier this week in class we discussed the unique approach that Augustine takes in relation to how one should approach Christianity. At first, I did not completely agree with the message that I interpreted. With regards to the value of material possessions, I felt as if his point that they were mainly unnecessary and the relationship between wants and needs was a bit radical. However, after examining this point further I actually came to understand it further and this completely changed my opinion. It is fascinating the how Augustine ultimately encourages one to move past the distraction of the desire for material possessions as they are a distraction from what is really important. Re-evaluating wants versus needs, it becomes apparent that the main need is the lord, and faith in the lord, which is actually not radical at all, it simply puts everything in perspective.

After reading the J. Todd Billings article, it was easy to make the comparison to the teachings of St. Augustine. A passage that really jumped out at me in this article states, “We do not have to master Scripture and then make it relevant to our lives; through Scripture, God opens up a new place for us to dwell, a place of fellowship with Christ on a path leading to love of God and neighbor”. In my opinion, this is quite relative to the teachings of Augustine as the basic love of god, the neighbor, and the comfort and positive encouragement that God offers is supported. Another point that he makes is the basic incorrect use of the bible that stretch its realm of influence in unnecessary ways. Concerning the application of its teachings in all areas of life(finance, relationships, family), but missing the basic because “This message centers on the individual and his or her preferences, and does not interpret the Bible in a way that calls felt needs into question or looks beyond them”. This is quite similar to Augustine as in it de-simplifies how he wants one to interpret scripture, use it literally, and also how it effects ones spiritual well being.

Finally, Billings’ closing quote states “In reading the Bible as Scripture, we are not the masters. We are being mastered and enlivened by the triune God”. Nothing could be more similar to St. Augustine’s most basic point that he projects in his writing”. Taking a step back, living and acting with Christian faith is the most important aspect, and mastering the Bible and faith is something we do not have the power to do.