Evangelicalism: The Movement Behind the Headlines

Grand Rapids, MI (PRWEB) March 9, 2005

A "Time" magazine cover story recently profiled “the twenty-five most influential evangelicals in America.” Recent Gallup polls suggest that nearly one-quarter of the U.S. population now identifies itself as evangelical. Between last year’s election and recent major media coverage, there is little doubt that evangelicalism is in the mainstream of American culture. But who are today’s evangelicals?

In this timely book, Kenneth J. Collins offers a substantial look at American evangelicalism. "The Evangelical Moment: The Promise of an American Religion" celebrates the vitality of the movement today, especially in terms of its contributions both to the church and to broader American society. Collins, a noted expert in the field of American religion, covers a wide range of topics as he:

•    explores who American evangelicals are

•    identifies their distinctives

•    offers a Wesleyan leavening of evangelicalism

•    considers the promise of evangelical theology

•    engages progressive evangelical views on politics and feminism

•    considers the future of the movement in light of the past

Collins believes that evangelicals can and should welcome increased cooperation with Catholic and Orthodox Christians on matters of shared concern. He feels, however, that evangelicals must first come to terms with an increasingly diverse American religious landscape and forgo dreams of creating a “Christian America.”

Clearing away many of the stereotypes that have surfaced in academic circles and the contemporary media, this carefully written book offers a balanced approach to a people who will make a difference in twenty-first-century America.

Kenneth J. Collins (Ph.D., Drew University) is professor of historical theology and Wesley studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is the author or editor of nine books, including "Exploring Christian Spirituality."

Click here for more information: http://www.bakeracademic.com/theevangelicalmoment

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