Evangelicalism in the United States

Evangelicalism in the United States
Name	Evangelicalism in the United States
Main classification	Protestant
Orientation	Evangelicalism
Polity	Congregational, Presbyterian, Episcopal
Founder	Influenced by First Great Awakening, Second Great Awakening
Founded date	18th–19th centuries
Founded place	Thirteen Colonies, United States
Separations	Fundamentalist–Modernist Controversy
Associations	National Association of Evangelicals, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
Area	United States
Language	English
Members	Approximately 25% of U.S. adult population
Aid	Samaritan's Purse
Tertiary	Wheaton College, Liberty University
Publications	Christianity Today

Evangelicalism in the United States is a vibrant and influential movement within Protestantism, characterized by an emphasis on personal conversion, biblical authority, and active evangelism. Its roots are deeply entwined with the First Great Awakening and Second Great Awakening, which shaped a distinct American religious identity. The movement gained formal cohesion in the mid-20th century, partly in reaction to both fundamentalism and theological liberalism, leading to the formation of institutions like the National Association of Evangelicals. Today, it represents a significant demographic and political force, with prominent leaders, media empires, and educational networks spanning the country.

History

The theological foundations were laid during the First Great Awakening through revivalists like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield. The Second Great Awakening further democratized the faith through camp meetings and itinerant preachers, giving rise to new denominations such as the Disciples of Christ. The late 19th century saw the growth of D.L. Moody's evangelism and the Holiness movement, while the early 20th century was defined by the Fundamentalist–Modernist Controversy within Northern Presbyterian and Northern Baptist circles. Post-World War II, figures like Billy Graham and Carl F. H. Henry led a neo-evangelical resurgence, founding Fuller Theological Seminary and the magazine Christianity Today to engage modern culture.

Beliefs and theology

Core doctrines include the belief in the necessity of a born-again conversion experience and the supreme authority of the Bible as outlined in statements like the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy. Central to worship is the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ for salvation, emphasizing substitutionary atonement. While diverse, many affirm premillennial views of Christ's return, and activism is driven by the Great Commission mandate. Theological education is centered at institutions like Gordon–Conwell Theological Seminary and Dallas Theological Seminary.

Demographics and geography

According to the Pew Research Center, evangelicals constitute roughly 25% of the U.S. adult population, forming a major component of the nation's religious landscape. They are predominantly white, but growing numbers are found within the Latino, African American, and Asian American communities. Geographically, the movement is strongest in the South and parts of the Midwest, often described as the Bible Belt, with significant populations in states like Texas and Tennessee. Denominational hubs include the Southern Baptist Convention, the Christian and Missionary Alliance, and many non-denominational megachurches.

Politics and culture

Since the formation of the Moral Majority by Jerry Falwell in 1979, evangelicals have been a potent force in the Republican Party, advocating for policies on abortion, same-sex marriage, and religious liberty. Key political organizations include the Family Research Council and Focus on the Family, with influential endorsements from figures like Pat Robertson of the Christian Broadcasting Network. The movement sustains a parallel culture through Christian media networks like the Trinity Broadcasting Network, Christian rock music, and publishing houses such as Zondervan.

Organizations and institutions

Major denominational bodies are the Southern Baptist Convention and the Assemblies of God. Prominent parachurch organizations include the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Campus Crusade for Christ (now Cru), and the relief agency Samaritan's Purse led by Franklin Graham. Higher education is served by colleges like Wheaton College, Biola University, and Liberty University, alongside seminaries such as Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Media influence extends through outlets like the Christian Broadcasting Network and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability.

Criticism and controversy

The movement has faced significant criticism for its political alliances, particularly its strong support for figures like Donald Trump, which some argue compromises theological ethics. Internal debates persist over issues like creation science, gender roles, and responses to racial injustice, highlighted by events like the demise of Mars Hill Church. External critiques often focus on perceived Christian nationalism, opposition to LGBT rights, and the handling of scandals within organizations like the International House of Prayer (IHOPKC).

Category:Evangelicalism in the United States Category:Protestantism in the United States Category:Christian denominations in the United States