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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Augustine's example, how can something used also be enjoyed?

2. What are the two main tools that God uses to teach men what to do, as identified by Augustine?

3. What does Augustine use to illustrate a thing to be used?

4. What other subject does Augustine addresses in Book Three and Book Four?

5. How are things separated by Augustine?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Augustine claim are the two types of signs and how are they defined?

2. Why does Augustine suggest that Christians should learn to use rhetoric?

3. According to Augustine, for whom are written commands in Scripture intended?

4. How does Augustine require that a speaker treat Scriptural interpretation?

5. What doctrine do Augustine's critics apply to interpreting Scripture?

6. What does Augustine identify as the two types of passages interpreted from Scripture?

7. What does Augustine identify as a trope and how does it affect interpretation of Scripture?

8. Why does Augustine suggest that Scripture reports the great sins of holy men?

9. According to Augustine, how are words as signs difficult to understand?

10. What is the illustration Augustine uses to show the difference between things "enjoyed" and things "used"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Augustine wrote after the reign of Constantine who made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. How do you think the role of Christianity in the administration of the Roman Empire affected theological rivalries among Christian leaders? Is it possible that Augustine was motivated by such rivalries to write "On Christian Doctrine"? Why or why not? If a rivalry similar to that between Augustine and the Donatists (those who believed interpretation came from "special gifts") was active today, which side do you believe modern political, religious, and secular leaders would choose and why?

Essay Topic 2

In Book Three, Augustine examines the natures of God, man, sin and lust. Give a review of what Augustine taught on these three areas, how they compare and contrast to modern perceptions on the same three areas, and whether you agree with Augustine's positions and why you do or do not. Cite recognizable examples from modern times and history to support your view.

Essay Topic 3

In Book Two, Augustine begins teaching on interpreting signs in Scripture. He warns against misapplying literal and figurative language to interpret signs. Read the creation account of Genesis 1. Compare the effects on theology by considering the chapter literally and figuratively. Explain how the literal or figurative interpretation of Genesis 1 affects the interpretation of miracles and events through the rest of the Bible including, but not limited to, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.

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