Christian Law
Contemporary Principles

Comparing church laws within ten Christian traditions worldwide, Christianity emerges as a religion of law as well as of faith.

Norman Doe (Author)

9781316500651, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 26 November 2015

450 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.3 cm, 0.6 kg

'In this important book, Professor Norman Doe, with whom the study of law and religion in these islands and throughout the Anglican world is so closely associated, outlines a new purpose for the study of Christian Law … For any involved in ecumenical dialogue, this book could point to a new future in inter-church and inter-faith dialogue.' Stephen Farrell, Search

Christian Law: Contemporary Principles offers a detailed comparison of the laws of churches across ten distinct Christian traditions worldwide: Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Reformed, Presbyterian, United, Congregational and Baptist. From this comparison, Professor Doe proposes that all denominations of the faith share common principles in spite of their doctrinal divisions; and that these principles reveal a concept of 'Christian law' and contribute to a theological understanding of global Christian identity. Adopting a unique interdisciplinary approach, the book provides comprehensive coverage on the sources and purposes of church law, the faithful (lay and ordained), the institutions of church governance, discipline and dispute resolution, doctrine and worship, the rites of passage, ecumenism, property and finance, as well as church, State and society. This is an invaluable resource for lawyers and theologians who are engaged in ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, showing how dogmas may divide but laws link Christians across traditions.

Preface
List of abbreviations
Introduction
1. The sources and purposes of ecclesiastical regulation
2. The faithful - the laity and lay ministry
3. The ordained ministers of the church
4. The institutions of ecclesiastical governance
5. Ecclesiastical discipline and conflict resolution
6. Doctrine and worship
7. The rites of passage
8. Ecumenical relations
9. Church property and finance
10. Church, state and society
General conclusion
Appendix: the principles of law common to Christian churches
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Comparative law [LAM], Law [L], Religious groups: social & cultural aspects [JFSR], History of religion [HRAX], Religion: general [HRA]