Description
Book SynopsisIs there room for religion in politics? In this insightfully written book, Paul Marshall argues that Christians can and should approach politics in a way informed by faith. Drawing on traditions of both Catholic and Protestant political thought, Marshall analyzes the ways in which religion influences our understanding of power, justice, and democracy. By exploring the biblical background of modern issues, Marshall provides an indispensable guide for Christians searching for a way to interject their religious convictions into their political actions. In an age when the relationship between politics and religion is becoming ever more importantand ever more blurredboth in America and beyond, God and the Constitution is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of faith and government.
Trade ReviewOne will learn more about the meaning and purpose of government, the process of American politics, the contemporary dynamics of religion and politics, and the actual message of the Bible in this book than in any other on the market. Marshall is informed, astute, critical, wise, and open about his own beliefs all at the same time. -- James W. Skillen, executive director, The Center for Public Justice
Paul Marshall writes with intelligence, compassion, and practicality. He sets a high standard. -- Michael Novak, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Human Rights Commission, 1994 Templeton laureate
Some truths are so blindingly obvious that many of us are blinded to them. One such truth is that our constitutional order is on the side of the vigorous public engagement of the many truths by which the American people live, including those truths often excluded because they are categorized as 'religious.' Paul Marshall's argument invites us to the high adventure of renewing the political task envisioned by the Founders. -- Rev. Richard John Neuhaus, editor-in-chief, First Things
Marshall is not merely rehashing Christian positions on issues, nor is he advocating theocracy. Readers will find food for thought no matter where they stand on the issues, as he insightfully addresses such subjects as church and state, religious freedom, democracy, and rights. Recommended. * Library Journal *
To anyone who is in political office or involved in public policy and advocacy and who is uncertain about the way religion and poitics should mix, as they inevitably do mix: waste no time in getting and reading this book. It is an eminently readable and well-informed statement of the basics, which, if learned and practiced, might renew the political task envioned by the Founders. * First Things *
A succint and thoughtful analysis. * WORLD *
Essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of the Bible and civil government. There is a great deal of helpful material here. * Biblical Worldview *
This book will appeal to those interested in political theory and US church-state relations. * CHOICE *
Provides a truly helpful introductory approach to politics from a Christian perspective. God and the Constitution provides a helpful guide for understanding the central questions for determining what is truly political and properly belongs to the domain of government. Marshall's argument is so well reasoned that one need not be remotely Kuyperian to appreciate this book. In fact, even a non-hostile non-Christian could read God and the Constitution and appreciate it as a gateway to understanding and participating in politics. * Family Policy Review *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Attacks on Religion in Public Life Chapter 2 The Church and the World Chapter 3 The Beginning of Politics and Justice Chapter 4 Democracy and Rights Chapter 5 Understanding the Modern World Chapter 6 Church, State, and Religious Freedom Chapter 7 Politics and Morality Chapter 8 International Relations Chapter 9 Concluding Reflections
