The present study is governed by two overriding convictions, one negative and the other positive. The relationship of church to state has often been cast in terms of the relations that obtain between two dominant institutions existing in a close and exclusive partnership. With the end of Christendom, this is now outmoded. A more differentiated approach is required that positions the church in positive relation to a range of other institutions within civil society, thus more effectively presenting its public significance. To this end, however, a rich tradition of Christian social thought can be appropriated for contemporary political conversation. Hence the attention devoted to historical materials is neither a preamble nor a diversion; it is integral to the argument.

These two ruling convictions are supported by a range of further considerations. As secular liberalism experiences various crises, especially the ordeal of ‘value pluralism’, attention can be diverted to early modern arguments for religious tolerance. These provide an account of social diversity that is articulated along distinctively theological lines. With the concept of ‘civil society’ now attracting fresh scholarly interest, the social contribution of churches can be positively assessed without recourse to the options of sectarian isolation or public dominance.