On Christian Doctrine Quiz

Take our free On Christian Doctrine quiz below, with 25 multiple choice questions that help you test your knowledge. Determine which chapters, themes and styles you already know and what you need to study for your upcoming essay, midterm, or final exam. Take the free quiz now!

In Book Three, Augustine argues that since holy men from scripture receive evil language from God because of their condition, how should the passages with such language be read? (from Book Three)

Both literally and figuratively.

With the understanding that God's word transcends time, so that spoken directly to holy men can be considered relevant to current settings.

In context with the laws that God is applying to the particular situation.

With sufficient references to historical data.

What is the most important step Augustine's students must take to avoid the trap he sees in interpretation? (from Book Three)

Students need to submit themselves to the process of purging their selfish desires.

Students need to differentiate the love for God from the love for things common among the pagans.

Students need to submit themselves to the scrutiny of a wise teacher who can dissuade them from becoming prideful.

Students need to devote themselves to studying the subjects Augustine recommended in Book Two.

What important understanding must the student of scripture possess, as stated in Book Two? (from Book Two)

He/she must understand that covetousness will disrupt the community.

He/she must understand that knowing how to use signs can lead to abusing signs.

His/her own depravity and that he loves temporal things too much.

His/her self love can interfere with his ability to use his inner eye.

According to Augustine in Book Three, what is the purpose of Scripture in reporting the condition that affects holy men? (from Book Three)

The sins of holy men are reported in Scripture so individuals never think they are too great to sin.

The direct communication that holy men had with God is reported so current students will approach Scripture with the reverence it deserves.

The knowledge of law possessed by holy men is reported in Scripture to guide students to approach God's communication with the same zeal.

The discernment of holy men is reported in Scripture to remind students of the work that needs to be done to understand the history and culture of holy men.

Why does Augustine claim that words as signs are difficult to understand? (from Book Two)

Because God created with words and wants believers to know their impact.

Because God provides Scriptural complexity to satisfy a hard-working mind.

Because words as signs are only understood within a scriptural context.

Because God inspires believers to master tongues and interpret signs.