Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft, By Francis J. Beckwith
Politics for Christians
paperback
  • Length: 175 pages
  • Dimensions: 6 × 9 in
  • Published: February 02, 2010
  • Imprint: IVP Academic
  • Item Code: 2814
  • ISBN: 9780830828142

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Politics is concerned with citizenship and the administration of justice--how communities are formed and governed. The role of Christians in the political process is hotly contested, but as citizens, Francis Beckwith argues, Christians have a rich heritage of sophisticated thought, as well as a genuine responsibility, to contribute to the shaping of public policy.

In particular, Beckwith addresses the contention that Christians, or indeed religious citizens of any faith, should set aside their beliefs before they enter the public square. What role should religious citizens take in a liberal democracy? What is the proper separation of church and state? What place should be made for natural rights and the moral law within a secular state?

This cogent introduction to political thought surveys political science, politics and government while making the case for how statecraft may genuinely contribute to soulcraft.

Politics for Christians is part of The Christian Worldview Integration Series.

The Christian Worldview Integration Series, edited by J. P. Moreland and Francis J. Beckwith, seeks to promote a robust personal and conceptual integration of Christian faith and learning, with textbooks focused on disciplines such as education, psychology, literature, politics, science, communications, biology, philosophy, and history.

"Beckwith's book Politics for Christians is most definitely helpful for those who want a solid introduction to politics and who are ready to ponder the believer's place in the rough and tumble work of statecraft."

Scot McKnight, Jesus Creed, August 2010
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CONTENTS

Dedication
Acknowledgments
Introduction

1 The Study of Politics
2 Liberal Decomocracy and the Christian Citizen
3 The Separation of Church and State
4 Secular Liberalism and the Neutral State
5 God, Natural Rights and the Natural Moral Law

Conclusion
Suggested Contemporary Readings
About the Author

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Francis J. Beckwith

Francis J. Beckwith is professor of philosophy and church-state studies, and fellow and faculty associate in the Institute for Studies of Religion at Baylor University.