In his excellent book, The Rise of Evangelicalism, historian Mark Knoll (Wheaton College) portrays the early evangelical movement of 18th century Europe and colonial America as entrepreneurial, adaptable, revivalist, experiential. . . radical.
This in contrast to the “creaking mechanisms” of established state religion.
Knoll observes: “By setting aside earlier religious forms, the evangelicals did not think they were setting aside the faith once delivered, but rather adjusting it to the new social realities of the age” (p149).
I have a feeling I'd have liked these guys: Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, John Wesley, Charles Wesley.
Knoll's account of their ministries is quite enlightening, and I'd recommend the book to you.
New from IVP: in paperback and Kindle
Drawing on hundreds of conversations I've had with students and faculty on college campuses the past few years, this book provides concrete stories, illustrations and images you can use in your own conversations with seekers and skeptics (click the image for the Amazon link)
About Me
- Rick Mattson
- I’ve worked for InterVarsity 35 years. Currently I serve as an apologetics specialist, traveling extensively to college campuses around the country. Locally, I serve the InterVarsity groups at Macalester College and St. Olaf College. I did my theological studies in the philosophy of religion at Bethel Seminary in St. Paul. I grew up in Marshall, MN, son of a music teacher. Main hobbies: golf (avid!), electric guitar, and I read a lot of theology and philosophy. I'm blessed to be married to Sharon, and we have two wonderful kids, both married, and three grandsons. rick.mattson@studentjourney.org
3 comments:
And this is exactly what I have been trying to say in several posts!
Sounds like my kind of guys.
Charlie, your posts are much appreciated!
Peter: You and me, my friend. Not sure what they'd have thought of your favorite subject--multicultural worship.
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