The search for truth often turns on how we use freedom. Today in Origen’s De Principiis we saw that virtue has no meaning unless it is chosen: stones fall by nature and fire rises by nature, but only the will restrained for truth and righteousness is praiseworthy. Augustine, in The Confessions (Book 11, Chapter 19), reflects on how multiple interpretations of “In the beginning” can stand side by side without undermining truth, showing us how Scripture unites depth with humility. Aquinas, in Summa Theologica (Part 1–2, Question 8), teaches that while our will is bound by necessity toward the universal end of happiness, it remains free regarding particular goods — meaning our choices are genuine, but our longing for God is built into our nature (Romans 8:20–21).
Readings:
Origen, De Principiis (Peri Archon), "On First Principles", Book 2, Chapter 1 (expanded section on free will)
Augustine, The Confessions, Book 11, Chapter 20 (Section 29)
Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica, Part 1–2, Question 8 (combined)
Explore the Project:
Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com
Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton
Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com
Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org
#Origen #Confessions #SummaTheologica #FreeWill #ChurchFathers
