The Indirect Impact of Martin Luther's doctrine of the "Two Kingdoms" and it’s Relevance for HKBP in Early Independence and the New Order

Abstract

Martin Luther's doctrine of the "Two Kingdoms" delineates the distinct spheres of authority between the church and the state. While this teaching originated in 16th-century Europe, its influence extended, albeit indirectly, into Christian political thought in Indonesia, particularly during the early post-independence period and the New Order era. This study employs a historical-theological approach to examine how the theological principles underlying the "Two Kingdoms" doctrine are reflected in the perspectives of Indonesian Christian leaders on social ethics and public policy. By analyzing historical documents, church confessions, and writings of prominent Indonesian Christian figures, the research reveals that, although the doctrine is not explicitly invoked in political decision-making, its core values significantly shape the political ethics of Indonesian Christian leaders. The doctrine provides a framework for navigating the relationship between church and state, ensuring a balance between spiritual obligations and civic responsibilities. This research proposes new insights into the field of political theology in Indonesia by illuminating the impact of theological teachings on local socio-political dynamics.