March 2014 Issue Index

​​Role of Government

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​Editor's Introduction
   by James Kenneth Echols
Recently in the United States, the debate about the size, scope and role of government has become a contentious issue. While some argue for "limited" government, others call for a more "expansive" role for government. In this issue of the Journal of Lutheran Ethics, one writer provides an historical overview of the ways in Lutherans have understood government and its role, while the other writer explores the possibilities for tax reform grounded in a certain understanding of the role of government.
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Role of Government

Changing Lutheran Perspective on the Role of Government
   by Leslie F. Weber
The role of government is a debate often seen on the news today.  This is not a new development.  Weber explores how Lutherans have thought about government's role during the Reformation in Europe as well as mid-twentieth century America. ​Where have Lutherans come from on this issue and how does this impact Lutherans today?
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​​Curtis Lanoue
Providing for the General Welfare: The Goal of Tax Reform
    by Curtis Lanoue
Scripture calls us to aid the poor.  Why should that be limited to only the private sphere?  Lanoue explores the secular and religious arguments regarding tax reform and how it can help those who truly need it.
​Book Reviews
American Civil ReligionAmerican Civil Religion by Gary Laderman
    by James Childs
Laderman explores the history of American civil religion, looking at how historical events and symbols have been used to maintain a national identity.  Laderman provides a unique perspective and his use of the e-book format adds useful features such as links to videos and primary sources.
Many ColorsMany Colors​:  Multicultural Changing for A Changing Church by Soong-Chan Rah​​​​
    by Kevin Considine
The demographic landscape of the US is undergoing a monumental flux. The future is multicultural, multiracial, and multiethnic and now many Christian churches are scrambling to catch Soong-Chan Rah provides a timely and insightful exploration of how churches can reconfigure themselves to fully embrace and authentically embody an emergent multiculturalism.
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​​​© March 2014
Journal of Lutheran Ethics (JLE)
Volume 14, Issue 3

Articles published in the Journal reflect the perspectives and thoughts of their authors and not necessarily theological, ethical, or social stances of the ELCA.​


 
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