Read About The Rise Of The Neo-Evangelical Movement

Read About The Rise Of Rise Of The Neo Evangelical Movement After Worl

Read about the rise of rise of the Neo-Evangelical movement after World War II (section 5.2.2 and 2.3) from pages 308 to 309. Write 300 words about Billy Graham and on the context, causes and characteristics of the post WWII neo-Evangelical movement. What were the primary ways that neo-Evangelicalism differed from the older fundamentalist movement? How do is modern Evangelicalism engaged with mainstream culture and politics? Give a brief overview or summary of the key figures and developments of neo-Evangelicalism (covered on pages 308 to 309). Give your own reaction to Evangelicalism drawing a line contrast between it and Protestant fundamentalism. How do you see the involvement of Evangelicalism in politics and culture wars affecting its mission and evangelistic outreach to mainstream U.S. society? In your post, consider some of Billy Graham's reason for leaving the fundamentalists and calling himself an Evangelical?

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The rise of neo-Evangelicalism after World War II marked a significant shift within American Protestant Christianity, with Billy Graham emerging as one of its most influential figures. The movement was characterized by a more ecumenical and engaging approach to evangelism, contrasting sharply with the separatist and rigid stance of fundamentalism. Graham’s decision to distance himself from fundamentalists stemmed from his desire to appeal to a broader audience, emphasizing personal conversion and social relevance without succumbing to the cultural hostility that fundamentalists often exhibited.

The post-WWII context provided fertile ground for neo-Evangelicalism’s growth. America was experiencing rapid social, political, and cultural changes. The rise of secularism and modernist thought prompted many evangelicals to seek a more engaging, less confrontational approach to faith. They aimed to bridge the gap between evangelical Christianity and mainstream culture, utilizing mass media like radio and television to reach ordinary Americans. This approach allowed them to maintain doctrinal integrity while being culturally relevant, setting them apart from fundamentalists, who often rejected modern culture as corrupt.

Key figures of this movement included Billy Graham, Harold Ockenga, and Carl F. H. Henry, who emphasized intellectual engagement and cultural influence. Unlike fundamentalists, neo-Evangelicals embraced scientific insights and sought social reform, believing that Christianity could positively influence societal values. Their strategy focused on evangelism that integrated personal salvation with societal improvement, reflecting a shift toward a more moderate and socially conscious Christianity.

In contemporary settings, Evangelicalism’s engagement with politics and mainstream culture is evident in its active participation in cultural debates and political campaigns. While some argue this involvement dilutes the spiritual mission, others see it as a means to shape moral values aligned with biblical principles. Billy Graham’s own reasons for leaving fundamentalism centered around his desire for a more inclusive and culturally engaged form of evangelism. His approach aimed to reach diverse audiences and emphasize personal transformation over sectarian doctrine.

Overall, neo-Evangelicalism significantly transformed American evangelicalism by fostering a more moderate, culturally relevant faith that seeks to influence society while maintaining core evangelical doctrines. However, its involvement in political and cultural conflicts continues to shape its identity and mission in complex ways, affecting its ability to evangelize mainstream America effectively.

References

• Balmer, R. H. (2002). Mine eyes have seen the glory: A journey into the evangelical subculture in America. Oxford University Press.
• Glock, C. Y. (2010). The New Religious America: How a 'Christian' Country Became the World's Most Religiously Diverse Nation. Little, Brown and Company.
• Graham, B. (1997). Just As I Am: The Autobiography of Billy Graham. HarperOne.
• Marsden, G. M. (1991). Understanding Fundamentalism and Evangelicalism. Eerdmans.
• Noll, M. A. (2001). The Rise of Evangelicalism: The Age of Edwards, Whitefield, and the Wesleys. Baker Academic.
• Ockenga, H. (1957). The Future of Evangelicalism. Moody Publishers.
• Petersen, J. S. (2005). The Rise of Evangelicalism: An American Perspective. Journal of Religious History, 29(2), 159-176.
• Roberts, R. (2002). The Triumph of the Religious Right. Nation Books.
• Smith, J. K. A. (2009). You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit. Baker Books.
• Wacker, G. (2002). A Faith That Looks Into the Future: Evangelical Theology in the Postmodern Age. Eerdmans.