Through the Church Fathers: August 21

The world is filled with signs and wonders—but not all of them come from God. In Against Heresies (Book 5, Chapters 26–27), Irenaeus warns that false signs are meant to deceive, yet the devil’s reach is always under God’s control and will be crushed in Christ (Matthew 24:24). In The Confessions (Book 12, Chapter 5), Augustine admits that certain truths—like the nature of formless matter—remain beyond human comprehension, teaching us to approach mystery with humility (1 Corinthians 13:12). In Summa Theologica (Part 1, Question 114, Article 4), Thomas Aquinas answers whether demons can work miracles, concluding that while they may cause astonishing effects through natural powers, only God performs true miracles (Exodus 8:18–19). Together, these readings call us to discernment, humble submission before God’s wisdom, and trust in His unshakable sovereignty.Readings:Against Heresies – Book 5, Chapters 26–27The Confessions – Book 12, Chapter 5Summa Theologica – Part 1, Question 114, Article 4Explore the Project:Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.comPatreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpattonCredo Courses – https://www.credocourses.comCredo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org