Reformed Theology and History Unit

The Reformed Theology and History Unit invites proposals exploring the multifaceted theme of “Judgment” within the Reformed tradition, engaging its varied historical, theological, ethical, and political dimensions. This broad theme invites consideration from diverse methodological perspectives which work to illuminate the past, enrich the present, and shape future discourse.

Theme Description
This year’s CFP aims to examine how judgment is understood, contested, and expressed as a motif in Reformed theology and history. Topics may include, but are not limited to:

Historical Perspectives:
Topics might include:

• How has the Reformed tradition considered judgment as a concept in the historic formulation of Reformed Confessions
• The treatment of ‘judgment’ or aspects of judgment in the works of key Reformed thinkers from the 16th – 20th centuries
• The relation between Reformed theological conceptions of judgment and those of other cognate fields, e.g., law or aesthetics
• Historical disputes about judgment, whether between Reformed churches and theologians, or between the Reformed and other Christian traditions
• Analysis of historical failures of judgment that were key in shaping the development of Reformed traditions

Theological Perspectives:
Topics might include:

• Theological treatment of the ‘Final Judgment’ as a dogmatic locus
• The understanding, formation, and exercise of judgment in Reformed ethics and/or the practice of ecclesiastical discipline
• Judgment as a theme in Reformed political theology
• The relation of judgment and grace, judgment and mercy, judgment and hope, and/or judgment and justice in soteriological doctrine
• The place of judgment in Reformed covenantal theology
• Judgment as a subject of Reformed exegesis and theological interpretation of Scripture
• The understanding, importance, and exercise of judgment in Reformed ecumenical relations and dialogues

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