At the Intersection of Church and State

In the colonial period of American history, “religious” ideas of Puritanism and political views of “republicanism” came together to fuel the debates that led to the American Revolution. American colonists were violently opposed to the establishment of a state church like the Church of England.  This led to the uniquely American denominational model still in existence today. Later, constitutional formulations and Supreme Court decisions shaped the role of churches and their leaders in the important give and take at the intersection of church and state. Always the questions remained: “who does speak for the church, and when should that speaking take place?” 

This is NOT a class about contemporary politics, or politicians.  We will NOT discuss, debate, or analyze any elections to any office.  This class is NOT about the question, “is America a Christian nation.”  SPOILER ALERT:  The constitution of the United States (1787) did NOT establish a “Christian” nation, though most Americans at the time were Protestant Christians.

This class WILL explore, examine and discuss a variety of issues that collide at the intersection of church and state.  The Bible will be examined for its words on issues of church and state.  Lutheran confessional writings will shed light on the roles of Christians in society.  And one of Martin Luther’s most important theological writings, “The Doctrine of the Two Kingdoms,” will cast this important discussion in a particularly Lutheran light.