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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Of Tyconius' rules for interpreting Scripture that Augustine examined, which two relate to the subjects that Augustine recommended for study in Book Two?
(a) On the promises and the law and On the devil and his body.
(b) On the Lord and his body and On the promises and the law.
(c) On species and genus and On measurements of time.
(d) On the Lord's twofold body and On genus and species.

2. What does Augustine write is incompatible with love?
(a) Using things without seeking wisdom is incompatible with love.
(b) Using things for non-Scriptural purposes is incompatible with love.
(c) Using things without the goal of enjoying them is incompatible with love.
(d) Coveting things for one's self is incompatible with love.

3. According to Augustine in Book Three, what is a condition that affects holy men and God's commands of them?
(a) They have spent time studying God's law and know how to apply his harsh language within the context of His judgment.
(b) They can commit great sins.
(c) They from Scripture became so because God had more direct communication with them.
(d) They discern the signs given by God that appear evil.

4. Based on the academic demands that Augustine places on his students, it is clear that Augustine believes what?
(a) That God is the master of all creation and language and the more you know of each the better you understand what God passed on in Scripture.
(b) That learning as much as possible is the best way to separate the individual from the common population.
(c) That personal discipline and focusing on things outside of the body helps build chastity and humility.
(d) That those who sought Augustine as a teacher will need to have conviction and determination to take on the challenges he puts before his students.

5. According to Book Three, what is the cause of Christians who are not diligent in separating themselves from pagans?
(a) A Christian will confuse things as signs to be symbols of God.
(b) Students will take their time in seclusion to focus on themselves rather than enjoying the presence of God.
(c) Students will not be diligent in checking their pride as their learning increases.
(d) A Christian will attach a figurative meaning to a passage intended to be read literally.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Augustine state a student should consider an evil command given to its intended target?

2. What does Book Three state is the purpose of God or angels using condemning terms?

3. Why does Augustine expect the method of accessing knowledge he lacks to be successful?

4. According to Augustine, how should a student be affected as he/she becomes proficient in interpreting Scripture?

5. By the end of Book Two, Augustine devoted much of this text to refuting critics who believe Scriptural interpretation comes simply. What does this infer of Augustine's methods of debate?

(see the answer key)

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