THE DOMINANCE OF EVANGELICALISM: THE AGE OF SPURGEON AND MOODY, by David W. Bebbington

A “Bonus” Brief Book Summary from Books At a Glance 

 

Overview and Thesis

Bebbington, expanding his influential History of Evangelicalism series, profiles the mid- to late-19th-century era—spanning roughly 1850 to 1900—as a period when evangelicalism became a dominant religious and cultural force across the English-speaking world: including Britain, the US, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. His thesis posits that evangelicals were the cutting edge of Protestant expansion and influence during this time. He offers a nuanced exploration of why and how evangelicalism surged in influence between 1850 and 1900. 

 

Chapter Summaries

1. The Evangelicals of the World
   Bebbington defines evangelicalism using his signature quadrilateral: biblicism, crucicentrism, conversionism, and activism, and he spotlights Charles Spurgeon and Dwight L. Moody as emblematic figures of the movement’s global resonance.
2. Varieties of Evangelicalism
   This chapter explores the rich diversity within evangelicalism—denominational, geographical, and social—while highlighting connective bonds formed through shared core beliefs and growing social respectability.
3. The Practice of Faith
   Focuses on evangelical spirituality, worship styles, outreach efforts (especially among youth), revivalism, and overseas missions. . . .

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