Divine Simplicity and the Christian Life: Sam Parkison and Ronni Kurtz

In *Purgatorio*, Dante Alighieri continues his journey from *Inferno*, guided by the Roman poet Virgil. The poem follows Dante as he ascends Mount Purgatory, a seven-terrace mountain where souls atone for the seven deadly sins. Along the way, Dante encounters various historical and mythological figures, engaging in discussions about sin, love, and human development. The journey culminates at the Garden of Eden, where Dante meets Beatrice, who will guide him through the next stage of his journey in *Paradiso*. The poem explores themes of redemption, suffering, and the purification of the soul, all while reflecting on divine truth and human history.

Boethius's 'Consolation of Philosophy' is a philosophical treatise written while he awaited execution. The work explores themes of fortune, adversity, and the nature of good and evil. Through a dialogue between Boethius and Lady Philosophy, the text examines the relationship between God and the world, grappling with questions of divine providence and human suffering. It offers a blend of philosophical and theological perspectives, providing solace and insight into the challenges of life. The book remains a significant work in the history of philosophy and theology.

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence.

In 'None Greater: The Undomesticated Attributes of God,' Matthew Barrett delves into the biblical, historic, and ecumenical doctrine of God, highlighting attributes such as aseity, simplicity, immutability, impassibility, and eternity. Barrett argues that these perfections are essential to understanding God's nature and why he is worthy of worship. The book critiques the tendency to domesticate God, making him more relatable but less divine, and instead calls readers to a deeper, more biblical understanding of God's character. Barrett engages with the works of theologians like Augustine, Anselm, and Aquinas to provide a comprehensive and accessible treatment of the doctrine of God.