Thomas Kidd, a Distinguished Professor of History, explores the history and perception of evangelicalism with an emphasis on its roots in evangelism. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding evangelicals in politics and media, the historical significance of the evangelical movement, and the evolving role of evangelicals in technology and politics. The conversation sheds light on the complexity and diversity within the evangelical community.
Evangelicalism is often misunderstood as a political movement, causing controversy and misrepresentation in the media.
The historical engagement of evangelicals in influencing politics reflects both positive and negative societal impacts.
Deep dives
Defining Evangelicalism and its Political Connotations
Evangelicalism is often perceived as controversial due to its strong association with politics, particularly in the media. The movement's public image has become intertwined with political affiliations, mainly with the Republican Party. The perception that evangelicalism is primarily a political and Republican movement has led to widespread controversy and misunderstanding.
Writing 'Who is an Evangelical?' in Response to Media Narratives
The author, Dr. Thomas Kidd, explains that the motivation for writing the book in 2019 was to counter the media's portrayal of evangelicalism, especially during and after the 2016 election. He sought to provide a nuanced historical perspective to clarify the true essence of the evangelical movement beyond its contemporary political associations.
Balancing Faith and Politics in Evangelicalism
Evangelicals historically believe that their faith should influence political and social issues, particularly in areas like moral reform. The movement's engagement with politics has varied, from spearheading movements like anti-slavery efforts to the controversial issue of prohibition. The evolving relationship between evangelicals and politics reflects both positive and negative aspects of their societal impact.
The Crisis of Perceived Public Image for Evangelicals
Evangelicalism faces a crisis in public perception largely due to its political entanglements and the media portrayal of the movement as predominantly white and Republican. The historical development of evangelicalism's political influence, especially since the 1970s, has led to a disconnect between core evangelical beliefs and external perceptions. The challenge lies in reclaiming the true essence of evangelicalism amidst misrepresentations in the public sphere.
What does it mean to be an evangelical? What do non-Christians think about the evangelical movement? Is it a movement worth saving? These are some of the questions Sean discusses with our guest Thomas Kidd, Research Professor of Church History at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. They briefly discuss the history of the evangelical movement and its core beliefs. Whether you are part of an evangelical movement or not, this episode will help you understand one of the most significant religious movements in American history.
Dr. Thomas S. Kidd serves as Research Professor of Church History at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has written multiple books including Thomas Jefferson: A Biography of Spirit and Flesh (Yale University Press, 2022), Who Is an Evangelical? The History of a Movement in Crisis (Yale University Press, 2019), Benjamin Franklin: The Religious Life of a Founding Father (Yale University Press, 2017). Kidd has written for media outlets including the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal, and he also blogs at “Evangelical History” at The Gospel Coalition website.
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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