Chapter 5: Thomas Aquinas
The Teacher of the Catholic Church
Aquinas lived in the 1200s. His early life is interesting.
A beautiful Mind. He was a prodigious scholar.
Faith and Reason. He is well known for his proofs of the existence of God.
The “Summa Theologica” and Aristotle. Summa Theologica is a remarkable work.
Nature and Grace.
Justification. Aquinas theology of justification is at odds with Luther’s (3 centuries later). But, the similarities are great.
Natural Law. Reason can tell us certain moral absolutes that are true for all times and places. For example, good to is to be sought and evil avoided. <That begs the question what is good and what is evil.>
The Sacraments. The sacraments were highly important to Aquinas. He defines them as sacred signs. They reenact Christ’s life and passion and resurrection.
Baptism. Baptism was important for Aquinas—it was a necessary sacrament.
What Can We Learn from Thomas?