Christianity and Constitutionalism

Abstract

Abstract This book explores the contribution of Christianity to constitutional law and constitutionalism viewed from the perspectives of history, law, and theology. The historical chapters recount the relationship between the Christian faith and fundamental ideas about law, justice, government, and constitutionalism by focusing on particular eras and the contributions of specific figures at particular times in history. There are chapters on the Old and New Testaments, the patristic era, early Christendom, the High Middle Ages, the Reformation, and modernity. Key people considered in these chapters include the biblical figures of Moses, Jesus, Paul, and John, as well as later historical figures such as Constantine, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Thomas Cranmer, and Roger Williams, reflecting several of the particular theological traditions that have developed within Christianity over time. The legal chapters focus on several of the central and most important doctrines and principles of constitutional law, evaluating them from a range of Christian perspectives. Key topics include sovereignty, the rule of law, democracy, the separation of powers, human rights, conscience, and federalism. The theological chapters then focus on particular Christian doctrines, exploring their constructive and sometimes critical implications for constitutional law and constitutionalism. There are chapters on revelation, the Trinity, Christology, political authority, natural law, subsidiarity, and eschatology.