A Proper Lutheran Response to the Pitfalls of the Social Gospel and Quietism Concerning the Roles of the Church and the Christian in Society

Abstract

This thesis explains the pitfalls of the Social Gospel and Quietism concerning the roles of the church and the Christian in society. While it responds to these pitfalls in a Lutheran way, it answers the question: “What is the church’s and the Christian’s proper role in society?” As it answers this question, it concludes that their roles fall between the Social Gospel and Quietism. As the church and the Christian avoid these two movements’ pitfalls, they must always keep in mind the proper distinction between the law and the gospel and the Lutheran doctrine of the Two Kingdoms. These teachings will guide them as they navigate difficult issues. Ultimately, in everything the institutional church and the individual Christian do, the proclamation of the gospel will be both goal and mission. As they do so, Christian love will inevitably follow, though Christians may demonstrate this love in different ways. After all, to share the gospel is to show Christian love, and a demonstration of Christian love always flows from a heart motivated by the gospel.