Angry Quote by Saint Augustine
“We who preach and write, do so in a manner different from which the Scriptures have been written. We write while we make progress.We learn something new every day. We speak as we still knock for understanding...If anyone criticizes me when I have said what is right, he does me an injustice. But I would be more angry with the one who praises me and takes what I have written for Gospel truth than I would be with the one who criticizes me unfairly.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Confessions, Book VII, 5th century
He distinguishes his own evolving writings from the fixed Scriptures, valuing progress and honest critique over blind praise.
In simple terms: He sees his work as evolving, not static, and prefers criticism to false adulation.
Key Takeaway
Embrace growth, welcome honest feedback.
Themes
faith
writing
humility
truth
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal study
- public preaching
- writing revisions
- dialogue with critics
Key Concepts
theology
self‑reflection
intellectual honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance respect for tradition with personal insight?
- When does criticism become constructive?
A Different Perspective
Blind praise can reinforce errors and hinder truth‑seeking.
