Christian Theology of Public Policy: Highlighting the American Experience

How should Christians view the state and its public policies? Are believers obligated to obey those with political power without qualification because of Romans 13? In this substantial work of practical theology, public policy economist John M. Cobin, Ph.D. argues that Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-14 must be read in their historical context, written under Nero's Rome, and develops the liberty of conscience perspective as a biblically coherent alternative to reflexive statism.

Part I lays the groundwork: basic economics and public policy theory, public policy theology in historical context, and the four Christian views of the state. Part II examines the nature of the state, the divine ordination of state criminals and legalized crime, and offers a concise commentary on Romans 12-14 and 1 Peter 2. Part III takes up key issues: self-defense against criminals (including the state), rights, just war, torture, capital punishment, the theology of policies of enslavement, the War for American Independence, the Christian fight for peace, and the Second Amendment. Part IV addresses the theology of nations and nationalism, public finance using state lotteries, and Christian civic duty in America.

Written for thinking Christians, including theologians, pastors, seminary students, economists, and scholars of public policy, the book includes forewords by an editor, an economist, a pastor, a philosopher, and a historian, plus extensive Scripture, subject, and name indices. First published by Alertness Books (2006).