Augustine’s Conversion to Christianity
Augustine's confessions give a very vivid account of a life that was full of temptations and obstacles. Even as a young child, he faced tough decisions (whether to learn in school or play). And, when Augustine was punished for these actions, he would pray; yet he felt his prayers were not heard. This I believe caused a little doubt about God (Christianity) in his young mind. Even though his mother tried with great effort to introduce him to Christianity, he sought out his own course of spiritual enlightenment. Augustine's struggle with commitment to Christ can be largely attributed to his love of fleshly desires (women). He mentions on several occasions about the desire he had to be with women. Yet he understood to fully convert to Christianity, he had to let go of these lustful desires. There were two events that led to Augustine's conversion. The first event is when Continence embraced him in a loving manner and encouraged him to "Cast yourself upon him and be not afraid." "He will receive you and heal you." This gesture pricked Augustine's heart. For he knew that his heart and soul needed healing. The second event occurred when he was crying bitterly and heard the voice of a child telling him to "Take and Read." He realized that there were no children around; and so he attributed this voice that he heard to something divine. Once he retrieved his book of scripture, he opened it and read (Romans 13:13) which gave him confirmation or reaffirmed what he already knew about the direction his life should go. As a Christian myself, I can understand and appreciate the struggle of Augustine and his conversion. I can also accept the reasons behind his final conversion. Even though he held offices of higher esteem there was still something missing in his life. He had respect, a son, women, friends and etc.