On Christian Doctrine

St. Augustine of Hippo’s On Christian Doctrine is a theological work offering guidance to the interpretation of biblical scripture, as well as Augustine’s precepts for effective rhetorical practice and Christian teaching. The work first appeared in 397 AD. Augustine’s expertise on these topics is twofold. As Bishop of Hippo, Augustine brings ecclesiastical authority and an extensive knowledge of the scriptures to his theology; as a former teacher of rhetoric, he speaks as an expert when offering his readers an overview of rhetorical practices.

At the time of publication, On Christian Doctrine contributed to a lively yet often fraught religious discourse. During Augustine’s lifetime, the Catholic Church was rapidly gaining in power but was not yet established as the only Christian authority in the Roman Empire. In the face of competing rival sects and many disputes over matters of scriptural authority and doctrine, Augustine’s theology played an important role in establishing orthodox Catholicism. On Christian Doctrine is considered one of his most famous and influential works.

This study guide uses the Kobo e-book edition of On Christian Doctrine produced by Wyatt North Publishing in 2010 with translation and editing by Jeremiah Vallery.

Plot Summary

Augustine opens On Christian Doctrine with a Preface that preemptively addresses some of the criticisms his work might attract.