What defines Neo-Evangelicalism? Origins and Historical Context Neo-Evangelicalism emerged in the mid-twentieth century as a response to both the theological conservatism of fundamentalism and the broader mainstream Protestant milieu that many perceived to have compromised core doctrines. Individuals such as Harold John Ockenga, Carl F. H. Henry, and others helped to frame the movement as an effort to retain a high view of Scripture while engaging with modern thought, culture, and intellectual challenges in a way that earlier fundamentalism often avoided. Early institutions and organizations played key roles in differentiating Neo-Evangelicals from both fundamentalists and liberal theologians. The formation of Fuller Theological Seminary (1947) and publishing efforts like Christianity Today (founded 1956) gave the movement an academic and literary presence. Many who identified with this perspective aimed to maintain doctrinal convictions, particularly regarding biblical inerrancy and the centrality of the gospel, but also sought to address cultural, social, and intellectual issues with a fresh approach. Core Doctrinal Commitments Neo-Evangelicalism upholds beliefs considered foundational within evangelical Christianity. Chief among them is the authority of Scripture. In the words of 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Neo-Evangelicals generally affirm: • The Bible as God’s authoritative revelation: Many within this movement champion biblical inerrancy or close variations of it, though some hold nuanced views on how inerrancy is defined. • The centrality of the gospel of Christ’s atoning work and resurrection: As Romans 10:9 states, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This verse underscores the movement’s commitment to salvation by faith in the risen Christ. • The necessity of personal conversion and regeneration: A personal, life-transforming faith commitment is held in high esteem, reflecting John 3:3: “Jesus replied, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’” Engagement with Culture and Society One distinguishing mark of Neo-Evangelicalism is a deliberate effort to engage with contemporary culture, academia, and social concerns instead of adopting the separatist stance often associated with fundamentalists. This has led Neo-Evangelicals to: • Publish scholarly works that integrate faith and reason: Apologetics, philosophy, and scientific inquiry are all seen as valid avenues through which believers can defend and articulate their faith. • Address social and humanitarian issues: Many Neo-Evangelicals emphasize living out the teachings of Christ in tangible ways, citing James 2:17: “So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.” • Participate in ecumenical conversations: While seeking to preserve core evangelical tenets, Neo-Evangelicals often dialogue with believers of various denominations in hopes of clearer gospel witness and unity on essential Christian doctrines. Differences from Fundamentalism While both movements share orthodox doctrines such as the deity of Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the reality of miracles, Neo-Evangelicals typically distinguish themselves through: 1. Cultural Engagement – Rather than complete separation, they advocate critical but constructive engagement with secular institutions and the broader society. 2. Academic Emphasis – Their leaders often found seminaries, write scholarly articles, and participate in public debates, as exemplified by the establishment of Fuller Theological Seminary and the writings of Carl F. H. Henry. 3. Broader Cooperation – Neo-Evangelicals collaborate more readily with Christians of other backgrounds for evangelism and educational efforts, often seeing unity as a strategic imperative for fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20). Influential Figures and Documents • Carl F. H. Henry wrote groundbreaking works that addressed the intersection of biblical orthodoxy with social responsibility and intellectual rigor. • Billy Graham famously crossed denominational lines during evangelistic crusades, demonstrating Neo-Evangelical willingness to partner widely for the sake of gospel proclamation. • The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) formed as an umbrella for various conservative Protestant groups to find common cause, bridging the gap between rigid fundamentalism and mainline Protestantism. The Role of Evangelism and Missions Neo-Evangelicals emphasize the biblical mandate to preach the gospel throughout the world. They anchor this emphasis in passages such as Matthew 28:19: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Their approach encourages: • Hosting conferences on missions to equip churches to reach unreached people groups. • Training believers in personal evangelism methods that integrate thoughtful conversation, cultural sensitivity, and a reliance on Scripture. • Model evangelism on examples from the New Testament, for instance, following the boldness seen in Acts 2:38–41. Contemporary Challenges and Discussions Modern Neo-Evangelicals continue to navigate various theological and social questions, such as: • Biblical Interpretation: While upholding inerrancy, some wrestle with issues of genre, historical context, and modern sensibilities to ensure handling Scripture responsibly (2 Peter 1:20–21). • Social Justice: Debates arise on how to address injustices in the public sphere without diluting or shifting focus from the gospel. • Moral and Ethical Stances: Maintaining biblical morality in rapidly changing cultural contexts remains a core concern, guided by principles found in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Conclusion Neo-Evangelicalism is best recognized as a theological movement that strives to preserve the foundational doctrines of historic Christianity—understanding Scripture as God’s authoritative Word, upholding the atoning work and resurrection of Christ, and affirming the need for personal conversion—while simultaneously engaging modern society and intellectual arenas. Its prominence in publishing, academics, and cultural dialogues has allowed it to shape broader Christian discourse. Though it shares much with traditional fundamentalist beliefs, it distinguishes itself by adopting a more inclusive, scholarly, and socially involved approach, continually assessing new cultural developments against the unchanging standard of Scripture. As a result, Neo-Evangelicalism continues to influence global Christianity by encouraging rigorous study of God’s Word, active engagement with the world, and unwavering commitment to the gospel message. |
    |