This is the sense in which Augustine says "freedom of…
““This is the sense in which Augustine says "freedom of choice is not made void but established by grace, since grace heals the will whereby righteousness may freely be loved."" Freedom is something received, not merely exercised. Therefore, in order to determine whether a person is acting freely, we need to know much more than whether or not that person is acting on his or her desires without the interference of others. In Augustine's view, others are in fact crucial to one's freedom. A slave or an addict, by definition, cannot free himself or herself. Others from outside the self - the ultimate Other being God - are necessary to break through the bonds that enclose the self in itself. Humans need a community of virtue in which to learn to desire rightly.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Freedom depends on divine grace that heals the will, allowing true desire for righteousness rather than mere absence of external restraint.
In simple terms: Grace heals will, enabling true freedom.
Key Takeaway
Seek grace‑guided desire, not just lack of interference.
Themes
theedom
grace
will
community
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- spiritual counseling
- ethical decision‑making
- addiction recovery
- social justice work
Key Concepts
Theology
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does grace transform personal desire?
- Can freedom exist without divine influence?
A Different Perspective
Grace may not be universally accepted, limiting its practical applicability.