Nieburh Reinhold

Reinhold Niebuhr, the most significant North American theologian since the eighteenth century, has decisively influenced the shape of Christian thought and action in the United States for much of the twentith century. Niebuhr addressed social and political issues from the perspective of "Christian Realism." This was his blend of liberalism, shrewd social analysis, and elements within the Augustinian tradition. His legacy continues to be influenced through his writings and the work of many of his distinguished students. Larry Rasmussen's introductory essay and notes on the selected texts set Niebuhr in his historical context, chart the development of his thought and indicate the significance of his theology in the development of Christian theology as a whole. Substantial selections from Niebuhr's work illustrate key themes: The disorders of a technical civilizationMorality and powerPreachers and prophetsAugustine and Christian realismGrace and sinJustice and loveNature and destinyTheological ideas, political and social ministryCoherence, incoherence and Christian faithThe king's chapel and king's courtThe theological virtues