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Saint Augustine – Life, Testimony

Full Name: Augustine
Birthplace: Thagaste, North Africa
Parents: Patricius (father), Monica (mother)
Born: AD 354
Died: AD 431
Salvation Experience: At the age of 34

Early Life

Saint Augustine was born in AD 354 in Thagaste, North Africa. His father, Patricius, was a wealthy but unbelieving man who lived an immoral life. His mother, Monica, was a devoted Christian, full of prayer and faith. She longed for her son to follow Christ and prayed with tears for his salvation.

As a young man, Augustine was very intelligent and loved reading books. He studied in Rome and learned Latin and Greek. But instead of following the Bible, he was attracted to worldly pleasures. Augustine lived in sin for many years, even having an illegitimate relationship. Still, his mother never stopped praying for him.

Turning Point

One day Augustine saw a poor beggar who was happier than he was, even though Augustine had wealth and knowledge. This made him think deeply about his life. Later, a Christian friend took him to a bishop who explained the truth of the Gospel and the power of the cross of Jesus Christ.

While in prayer, Augustine heard a voice like a child saying, “Take up and read.” He opened the Bible and read Romans 13:14, which said to put aside sinful desires and put on the Lord Jesus Christ. This verse touched his heart. He wept with repentance and gave his life to Jesus.

On Easter Day in AD 388, Augustine was baptized. After 13 long years of his mother’s prayers, Monica finally saw her son saved.

Ministry and Writings

Augustine left his career and joined a Christian monastery. He spent his life in prayer, studying the Scriptures, and teaching God’s Word. In AD 395, he was ordained as a bishop. He became a powerful preacher, leader, and writer.

Two of his most famous books are:

Confessions – his personal story of sin, repentance, and faith in Christ.
The City of God – a powerful book about God’s kingdom and Christian living.

These writings helped correct false teachings and brought spiritual revival in the early church. Augustine became one of the greatest Christian thinkers in history.

Death and Legacy

Augustine lived faithfully until the age of 77. In AD 431, he died and entered the heavenly city he loved so much. The church remembers him as Saint Augustine, a man who taught that salvation comes not by works, but by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.

Famous Quote

“In the flood of my mother’s tears, I was carried into the Kingdom of God.” – Saint Augustine