The City of God- Books 5, 8, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21

According to Augustine, what is the most significant difference between sacred Scripture and philosophic tradition?

Philosophers can't agree that people from all walks of life, different places, and scripture are all in agreement with themselves. It took 2000 years and over 40 authors to write the Bible.

According to Augustine, with which philosophical school is it worthwhile to engage in theological discussions concerning the nature of God (because their opinions are to be preferred above those of all other philosophical schools)?

Platonists

What is the relationship between Sarah and Hagar and the Heavenly City and the Earthly City?

Sarah bore Isaac who was the child born of promise which represented the Heavenly City. Ishmael the son of Hagar was the representation of the Earthly City, he was born in bondage and slavery.

According to Augustine, Plato viewed God in a manner consistent with the name of God given to Moses. What legend does he reject that would account for Plato's apparent agreement with Christian theology on a number of significant points?

That he was the prophet Jeremiah.

In Book V, Augustine argues that the righteous do not seek human praise? Why is that?

We as Christians are supposed to praise God.

What does it mean to say that Adam is our federal head?

Adam is the representative of all of us- when he sinned and fell, we all fell.

According to Augustine, why did God grant prosperity to Constantine?

Constantine worshipped the one true God. God granted him earthly gifts, founding of a city (Constantinople), lived until a good age and his kids were successful after him.

Explain the relationship between Cain and Romulus.

Cain killed Abel and Romulus killed Remus (fratricide). The Earthly City was confined in this way.

With regard to the issue of God's sovereignty, Augustine says that we "faithfully and sincerely confess both." What is the "both" we faithfully and sincerely confess?

God is omnipotent and we have free will.

How does Augustine say that God's providential rule is manifest in the created order of things?

God's creation- every little thing about the earth has a planned out design, it all has its own exact fit.

What, according to Augustine, is the best reason to believe in miracles?

If God is almighty, all-knowing and omnipotent, and he is who we claim he is, how can we not believe in miracles?

Why is there so much diversity of dress and custom in the City of God?

If you accept Christ as your Savior, it does not matter your walk of life. God accepts you and it does not matter your "dress or custom."