Can public theology be practised beyound the state?

Abstract

This article reflects on the relationship between public theology and the state. It suggests that a state-centric paradigm plays a significant role in the self-understanding and practice of public theology, and that transnationalism can serve as correction to state-centrism. It argues that these concepts complement the existing discourse on glocalization in public theology. The article investigates the role of churches in the struggle against apartheid as an early example of transnationalism in public theology. The concluding section shows that transnationalism may aid the practitioners of public theology to reflect critically on its relation to the state.