Abstract
The principle of subsidiarity has a parallel in the Dutch Calvinist tradition of Abraham Kuyper. Seeking to create space for intermediate entities between the state and the individual, Kuyper developed the idea of “sphere-sovereignty” to express this. While the two principles are parallel, there are differences regarding the nature of each sphere, their interrelationships, and the role of the institutional church. Nevertheless, the combined strengths of these principles are instructive for those seeking to witness to Christian faith in all areas of contemporary, pluralistic societies.
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