Reformed Theology and History Unit

The Reformed Theology and History Unit invites proposals exploring the multifaceted theme of “Freedom” within the Reformed tradition, engaging its historical, theological, ethical, and political dimensions. This broad and generative theme invites academic inquiry from diverse methodological perspectives and disciplines, encouraging contributions that illuminate the past, enrich the present, and shape future discourse.

Theme Description
The Reformed tradition has long grappled with questions of freedom—divine and human, political and religious. This year’s CFP aims to examine how freedom is understood, contested, and expressed in Reformed theology and history. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

• Freedom:
  How has the Reformed tradition considered freedom across contexts and theological categories? Topics might include:
  • Divine sovereignty and human freedom in historical and contemporary debates.
  • Free will, agency, and human personhood.
  • Sin, total depravity, and human freedom.
  • Freedom and authority in scripture and its interpretation.
  • Freedom and the relative authority of church and confession.
  • Political freedom in the Reformed tradition, including its influence on resistance movements and theories of governance.
  • Comparative studies with other traditions (e.g., Lutheran, Catholic) on theologies of freedom.
  • Contemporary challenges to religious freedom in global contexts.
• Historical Perspectives:
  • Contributions of Reformed theologians to political theories of resistance and rights.
  • The interplay between Reformed thought and freedom movements in various cultural or national contexts (e.g., the Dutch struggle for independence, South Africa, Korea).
• Global Dialogues:
  • Negotiations of freedom within the global Reformed tradition, including its expressions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
  • Reports and reflections on the upcoming World Communion of Reformed Churches General Council (2025).
• Theological Innovation:
  • The ongoing relevance of Reformed theology in addressing modern social and political challenges.
  • Engagement with lesser-studied figures in the Reformed tradition whose work centers on themes of freedom.
• Freedom and Reform:
  • Intersections between confessional freedom, a commitment to “Reformed and always in need of reform,” and ecumenical collaboration within and beyond the Reformed family.
• Modern Theology:
  In collaboration between the Christian Systematic Theology unit, the Schleiermacher, Modernity, and Religion unit, and the Reformed Theology and History unit, we especially invite proposals on:
  • Freedom in modern theology, especially in and around Friedrich Schleiermacher and 19th century Liberal Theology and its alternatives

Proposal Guidelines
We invite proposals for individual papers and pre-arranged panels. Proposals should clearly articulate their connection to the theme and their potential contribution to the field. Innovative formats and interdisciplinary approaches are especially encouraged.

To ensure a broad and inclusive dialogue, submissions from early-career scholars, scholars from underrepresented backgrounds, and global perspectives are strongly encouraged.

Please submit abstracts via the AAR’s PAPERS system by the stated deadline. Accepted papers may also be considered for co-sponsored sessions with relevant AAR units.

Contact Information
For inquiries, please contact the Reformed Theology and History Unit Steering Committee.