Erastianism

American  

[ih-ras-chuh-niz-uhm, -tee-uh-niz-] / ɪˈræs tʃəˌnɪz əm, -ti əˌnɪz- /

noun

1. the doctrine, advocated by Thomas Erastus, of the supremacy of the state over the church in ecclesiastical matters.

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Erastianism British  

/ ɪˈræstɪəˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. the theory that the state should have authority over the church in ecclesiastical matters

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Other Word Forms

• Erastian
  noun

Etymology

Origin of Erastianism

First recorded in 1675–85; Erastian + -ism

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Erastianism

But whether the state might try to dominate religion itself — known in early political theory as Erastianism — was an important concern for Jefferson and Madison.

From New York Times ● Feb. 21, 2012

But the charge of Erastianism – the idea that the church is a wholly owned subsidiary of the state – remains the ultimate theological dirty word.

From The Guardian ● Feb. 15, 2011

Not unlike the Tractarians, he desires the liberty of establishing a system which shall exclude Lutheranism, Rationalism, and Erastianism; and he has united in his school nearly all who profess positive Christianity in Denmark.

From The History of Freedom by Acton, John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton, Baron

They were likewise solemnly engaged to employ their official influence and authority to put away systems that had been abjured in the National vows,—Popery, Prelacy and Erastianism, and to discourage all profaneness and ungodliness.

From The Life of James Renwick A Historical Sketch Of His Life, Labours And Martyrdom And A Vindication Of His Character And Testimony by Houston, Thomas

To this powerful production Coleman attempted no reply; nor have its arguments ever been answered by any subsequent advocate of Erastianism.

From The Works of Mr. George Gillespie (Vol. 1 of 2) by Gillespie, George