The Social Teachings of the Christian Churches
work by Troeltsch
Also known as: “Soziallehren der christlichen Kirchen und Gruppen”(Show More)
Quick Summary
Ernst Troeltsch's The Social Teaching of the Christian Churches (1912) is a seminal work exploring the complex relationship between Christianity and society. Troeltsch, a German scholar, categorized Christian social organization into three types: church, sect, and mystical movement.12
- Church: A conservative institution that affirms the world and offers salvation through clergy and sacraments, characterized by inclusivity and continuity.
- Sect: Smaller groups seeking unmediated salvation, often in opposition to the world, emphasizing exclusivity and believers' baptism.
- Mystical Movement: Expresses radical religious individualism, focusing on interiorizing faith and personal example, often seeking universal tolerance beyond dogma.
Troeltsch's work influenced theologians by urging a reexamination of Christianity's absolute truth claims in light of historical relativism.1
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