🎻intro to humanities review
Evangelicalism
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Evangelicalism is a global movement within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the authority of the Bible, the necessity of personal conversion, and the importance of sharing the Christian faith. It is marked by a commitment to evangelism, which involves spreading the Gospel message and encouraging others to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This movement has significantly influenced various aspects of social, cultural, and political life in many societies.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Evangelicalism emerged in the 18th century, rooted in the Protestant Reformation but gaining prominence during the Great Awakening in North America.
- The movement places significant emphasis on personal experience of faith, often described as being 'born again' or having a transformative encounter with Jesus.
- Evangelicals are often characterized by their commitment to missionary work and social justice initiatives, driven by a desire to live out their faith in practical ways.
- Key organizations and denominations, such as the Southern Baptist Convention and the National Association of Evangelicals, have helped shape the evangelical landscape in America.
- The influence of evangelicalism extends beyond religion, impacting politics, education, and cultural discussions on issues like morality, family values, and social issues.
Review Questions
- How does evangelicalism differ from other branches of Christianity in terms of beliefs and practices?
- Evangelicalism differs from other branches of Christianity primarily through its emphasis on personal conversion experiences, known as being 'born again,' and its strong focus on evangelism. While many Christian denominations may prioritize tradition or sacraments, evangelicals believe in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as essential for salvation. They also stress the authority of the Bible as God's word, guiding their beliefs and practices in ways that may differ from more liturgical or ritualistic Christian traditions.
- Discuss how historical events like the Great Awakening contributed to the rise of evangelicalism in America.
- The Great Awakening was a series of religious revivals during the 18th century that significantly contributed to the rise of evangelicalism in America. This movement emphasized emotional preaching, personal experiences of faith, and the importance of individual relationships with God. As preachers like George Whitefield traveled across colonies stirring spiritual fervor, many people experienced conversions and embraced evangelical beliefs. This not only shaped religious life but also fostered a sense of shared identity among evangelicals, which has persisted into modern times.
- Evaluate the role of evangelicalism in shaping modern American culture and politics, particularly regarding social issues.
- Evangelicalism has played a pivotal role in shaping modern American culture and politics by influencing attitudes towards various social issues such as abortion, marriage, education, and civil rights. The movement's emphasis on moral values has mobilized millions to engage in political activism aimed at preserving what they perceive as biblical principles. This has led to significant political alignments, especially within conservative movements where evangelicals often advocate for legislation reflecting their beliefs. As a result, evangelicalism not only shapes individual behavior but also impacts broader societal norms and political discourse in contemporary America.