Through the Church Fathers: April 20

In today’s episode, Justin Martyr responds to Trypho’s bold claim that Jews have no need to confess or worship Christ. Justin gently but firmly demonstrates from the Psalms that the Messiah is both eternal and divine—preexistent before the sun, ruling from heaven, and returning in glory. He urges that salvation comes only through this One, even for those of Israel who are saved.

Thomas Aquinas then explores whether angels can know the future or the secrets of human hearts. His answers help us reflect on the limits of created intellects—even angelic ones—while deepening our awe at God’s unique, infinite knowledge. Angels may be mighty, but only God sees perfectly into time and the soul.

Finally, in Confessions, Augustine is pierced by conviction as he listens to the story of Antony the monk. He sees the depth of his own spirit ...