Degree
Master of Arts
Program
Theology
Supervisor
DR JOHN THORP
Abstract
Christian theology has always viewed itself in relation to two communities: the church and the wider public. Political theology attempts to expose incoherencies by highlighting theological themes in “secular” society. Public theology, meanwhile, accepts that wider political communities have their own autonomy. The work of Public Theology is to bring together insights from the gospel with initiatives from wider political movements in Government, Economic Structures and Civil Society for the benefit of all citizens.
In this thesis, I explore the historical development of Political Theology with the aid of Kirwan and Phillips. I examine the evolution of Public Theology from Political Theology through Tracy and Smit. I then propose that Public Theology offers more public participation in secular society than Political Theology supported by Cavanaugh. Finally, I assert that Public Theology is made possible through the sacrament of baptism.
Recommended Citation
Levesque, Martin R., "Political Theology Versus Public Theology: Reclaiming the Heart of Christian Mission" (2014). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 2452.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/2452