Augustine. Many know him as one of history's foremost theologians, and his writings continue to guide our understandings of history, philosophy, linguistics, and psychology. Nearly sixteen centuries after his death, high school students are still required to read and contemplate his Confessions.

How did one man come to leave such an impression? What motivated him? What were his strengths? What were his sins and weaknesses, and how did he overcome them? And why have his writings stood the test of time?

In Behold My Heart, Joshua Congrove answers these questions as he walks us through Augustine's childhood, his early career, his conversion to Christianity, and his ministry as pastor and bishop. This short biography opens a window into the heart of a man whose love for God and love for people continue to shape the Western world.

Preface

Prologue

1. Born and Raised in Africa
2. Early Life
3. Education, Rhetoric, and Teaching
4. Manichaeism and Sexual Sin
5. Ambrose
6. Conversion
7. The Pastorate at Hippo
8. Life as Bishop: Heresies, Debates, Imperial Power
9. Life as Bishop: Daily Life
10. Life as Bishop: Writing and Preaching
11. The Sack of Rome
12. City of God
13. Pelagianism
14. Old Age
15. Death and the End of Roman Hippo
16. Legacy

Appendix A. Where to Go from Here?

Appendix B. Augustine and the Pears

Appendix C. Timeline of Important Events