The Evolution of Evangelicalism

Evangelicalism has experienced a significant transformation since its roots in the early 20th century, particularly during the tumultuous period surrounding the establishment of various theological schools and the Scopes Trial. The fundamentalist modernist controversy led to a distinct separation between fundamentalists and modernists, both seeking to defend their perspectives within the church. Subsequent movements, particularly neo-evangelicalism, emerged in the mid-20th century as a reaction to fundamentalist isolation, allowing evangelicals to re-engage with mainstream culture and academic settings. This shift ultimately shaped contemporary evangelicalism, which seeks to balance historical Christian tenets with contemporary societal issues.