Conservative and Liberal in Religion

In the modern American context, theological “conservatism” and “liberalism” have clear meanings. Although the exact meaning of religious “conservatism” varies across traditions, theological conservatives in general hold traditionalist beliefs on issues like the resurrection of Jesus, the Bible as the literal word of God, and the literal existence of the devil. “Theological liberalism,” by contrast, also has a meaning in religion: it reflects a more modern reading of the Bible, placing less emphasis on individual morality and more on communal and economic justice. These positions translate to more “liberal” views on issues such as abortion and gay rights.