Love Does Not Seek Its Own: Augustine, Economic Division, and the Formation of a Common Life

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This book arises out of contemporary questions regarding the nature and formation of the church amidst an economically divided society. Looking to Augustine of Hippo for guidance, Jonathan D. Ryan argues that the movement from private self-interest toward common love of God and neighbor is fundamental to the churchs formation and identity amidst contemporary contexts of economic inequality. Ryan demonstrates the centrality of this theme in Augustines Sermons and his monastic instruction (principally the Rule), illustrating how it shapes his pastoral guidance on matters pertinent to economic division, including use of material resources, and attitudes toward rich and poor. By reading Augustines Sermons alongside his monastic instruction, this volume allows for a closer understanding of how Augustines vision of a common life is reflected in his pastoral guidance to the wider congregation. The books concluding reflections consider what the church in our time might learn from these aspects of Augustines teaching regarding the formation of a common life, as members are drawn together in love of God and neighbour.

Reviews

In this inspiring book, we meet Augustine the pastor and hear him address an issue crucial to his age and our own: economic inequality. Ryan deftly explores the root of inequality in self-love, a form of egotheism, and explains Augustine's vision of common life rooted in God's abundance. Highly recommended. -- William T. Cavanaugh, DePaul University, USA
Steeped in a rich knowledge of Augustines corpus, Jonathan Ryan lucidly unfolds Augustines teaching on economic matters in relation to our common life before God. Well written, impeccably researched, and astute in its theological judgements, students of not only Augustine but also Christian doctrine in general have much to learn from Ryans superb study. -- Christopher Holmes, University of Otago, New Zealand

Author Bio

Jonathan D. Ryan is an ordained Presbyterian minister in Dunedin, New Zealand, where he lives with his family.