The Real Heroes, Martyrs 

    Conclusion

     "After surveying Rome's long history, Augustine decided Paul and other martyrs were Rome's real heroes, not politicians and soldiers. Rome's legions conquered the known world. But any glory they achieved for Rome proved short-lived." 

     "In The City of God Augustine referred to the apostle Paul as 'the best and strongest of men.' Not through war and conquest; rather, he gloried in his own weakness."

     "Augustine esteemed the martyrs who possessed humility in the face of death. Their first concern was testifying to their faith in the heavenly city rather than fighting for fading glory in the earthly city." 

     "Augustine ends The City of God, contemplating that heavenly city: 'There we shall be still and see, see and love, love and praise. Behold what will be in the end without end! For what else is our end but to reach the kingdom without end?'" 

     "During a contentious election cycle, it's easy to forget our ultimate concern should be the kingdom without end, rather than restoring America's fading glory. But citizens of heaven have a civic responsibility to work for the good of the earthly city. As we prepare to cast our votes this year, Augustine would urge us to faithfully engage in politics without putting our faith in it."  

We trust you appreciated our series based on an article by Collin Garbarino,         who studied the fifth century bishop, Augustine.