Description
Book SynopsisThis book demonstrates that an ethics of individual conscience and virtue is incommensurate with Calvinâs doctrine and shows that for Calvin, Christians are bound in conscience to obey secular government. He further argues that a shared understanding of Calvin and a broader ecumenism could be a path out of culture war.
Trade ReviewThis provocative, engaging, and insightful book offers both a sensitive, well-informed reading of Calvin and a shrewd account of contemporary religion and politics. -- Bruce Gordon, Yale University
H. L. Mencken may have filed Calvinism next to cannibalism in his cabinet of horrors, but if he had read Carl Rasmussen Mencken might have reconsidered. John Calvin emerges, on Rasmussen’s subtle and thoughtful reading, tonic for anyone tired of the clichés that dominate Christian reflection on U.S. politics. Even better, his book may help Christians remember their identity not as political partisans but pilgrims who seek a better country. -- Darryl Hart, Hillsdale College
Table of Contents1. Evangelicals and Catholics Together: Ecumenism of the Trenches 2. Faith Rather Than Belief: Four Augustinian Theses on Faith in Calvin 3. Life for Others Rather Than Virtue: Three Theses on Sanctification in Calvin 4. The Rule of Law Rather Than Conscience: Five Theses on Natural Law in Calvin Conclusion: Calvin, Karl Barth, and the Message of Reconciliation
