This research paper, written by Roddey Smith at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte for Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn, explores Augustine’s shifting position on Roman intervention in the Donatist schism. Initially opposing coercion, Augustine later came to support limited state enforcement to restore church unity after peaceful appeals failed.
Smith divides Augustine’s development into three stages: an early pastoral phase emphasizing persuasion and charity, a transitional phase where he began rationalizing limited state action, and a final stage of full endorsement grounded in theological justification. Drawing from Augustine’s letters, sermons, and writings—including Psalmus contra partem Donati and Letter 93 to Vincentius—the paper shows how Augustine’s stance moved from idealistic pacifism to pragmatic correction motivated by love.
By tracing this evolution, Smith reveals a nuanced view of Augustine as a pastor-theologian wrestling with the tension between mercy, discipline, and the pursuit of unity in a divided church.
Course and semester: HT5100 History of Christianity I — Fall 2024