Question

augustine is considered one of the most influential christian teachers of all time. one of his important teachings is that
select an answer
a. all human beings are inherently sinful and, because they have free will, they tend to choose evil rather than good; however, some are able to achieve salvation through the grace of god.
b. there is no such thing as free will, and that god in his omnipotence has predetermined all of our actions from the beginning of time.
c. god has condemned all of humanity to a life of suffering because of humans inherent sinfulness and propensity for evil.
d. gods power and goodness are opposed by an equally powerful evil force, which humans must struggle to defeat.

Explanation:

Augustine's teachings include the concept of original sin (humans are inherently sinful) and the role of God's grace in salvation. Option A aligns with this as it mentions inherent sinfulness, free - will (a key aspect in Augustine's view where humans have the capacity to choose, though often wrongly), and salvation through God's grace.
Option B is incorrect as Augustine did believe in free - will (though limited by sin). Option C is too extreme as Augustine also believed in the possibility of salvation. Option D is not in line with Augustine's monotheistic view (he did not believe in an equally powerful evil force opposing God).

Answer:

A. all human beings are inherently sinful and, because they have free will, they tend to choose evil rather than good; however, some are able to achieve salvation through the grace of God.