A Theology for the Social Gospel

Walter Rauschenbusch, a prominent Baptist minister and theologian, was instrumental in the American social gospel movement. Rejecting traditional fire and brimstone preaching, he advocated for living a Christ-like life. Rauschenbusch emphasized that Christ's death aimed to replace selfishness with love as the foundation of society. He viewed Christianity not merely as a path to heaven but as a transformative force for creating earthly harmony that reflects heavenly ideals.