"There are some things which are to be enjoyed, some which are to be used, and some whose function is both to enjoy and use. Those which are to be enjoyed make us happy; those which are to be used assist us and give us a boost, so to speak, as we press on towards our happiness. . . . But if we choose to enjoy things that are to be used, our advance is impeded and sometimes even diverted, and we are held back, or even put off, from attaining things which are to be enjoyed, because we are hamstrung by our love of lower things."
Augustine, De Doctrina Christiana, 1.7.
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3 comments:
My favorite part of this is the effort Augustine is putting forth in developing a theology/philosophy of enjoyment & pursuit of happiness.
My thoughts, briefly: our culture is hellbent on pursuing happiness and enjoyment - but killing ourselves by doing it incorrectly (ala Huxley). The Evangelical response has largely been to separate and flee, not redeem.
What do you make of this?
Thanks, Ryan. I see Christians responding in at least three ways:
One, blind conformity to short-term, self-centered hedonism. This seems to be our general pattern.
Two, reactionary aloofness from the world. This is less common, but I have seen near-Amish reversionism.
Three, true gospel happiness, come what may, in the grace of Christ. This is our only salvation.
Ray,
We have read and discussed your Augustine quote in our Enjoying God bible study. That quote, coupled with your Podcast series on enjoying God, as been a real blessing!
Also, the deepening intimacy in Christ being experienced by the participants, as they journal (ala Valley of Vision) has been great!
Thank you.
-- Keith
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