Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to give full hearing to the theology and political philosophy of each [Jerry Falwell and Reinhold Niebuhr], allowing both men to answer the question -- Why should the Christian be involved in politics? An analysis of the way in which Falwell and Niebuhr use the scriptural tradition they both contend is foundational for their theories will provide a sound basis to be followed by elaboration of their thought. The fourth and final chapter will be a comparison and contrast of Niebuhr and Falwell focusing on the issue of nationalism which plays a major role in Falwell's thought.