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Social Justice Goes To Church: The New Left in Modern American Evangelicalism
"The infusion of social justice into the gospel may well be the most dangerous problem facing the church today. Yet, it is going unnoticed in far too many circles. Social Justice Goes to Church can serve as a wake-up call."
—Samuel C. Smith, Ph.D.
Chair and Graduate Program Director, Department of History, Liberty University
In order to understand why so many evangelicals recently support left-leaning political causes, it is important to know a little history.
In the 1970s, many campus radicals raised in Christian homes brought neo-Marxist ideas from college back to church with them. At first, figures like Jim Wallis, Ron Sider, and Richard Mouw made great gains for their progressive evangelical cause. But, after the defeat of Jimmy Carter, the religious right stole the headlines.
Today, a new crop of mainstream evangelicals has taken up the cause of the New Left, whether they know it or not. As pro-life evangelicals rush to support movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo, it is important to realize they are walking in footprints already laid down. Their mission may be more successful, but it is not new. To understand where the evangelical social justice movement is heading, it is vital to understand the origins of the movement.
Social Justice Goes to Church: The New Left in Modern American Evangelicalism answers, from a historical perspective, the vital question, "Why are American evangelicals moving Left?"
“The great injunction to the Church was to preach the Gospel to the world, while not being of the world. Social justice neatly reverses this trend, preaching the ways of the world into the church. That is not its only critical reversal. The Gospel is about freedom from guilt and sin and bondage. Social justice seeks above all to apportion guilt and sin and bondage, enslaving entire demographics and requiring that they kneel before man in attrition. How important that a book of this nature should enter the fray right now. I applaud Mr. Harris for his excellent work in providing the practical means of identifying and repelling this fraudulent force, this ideological interloper, this dangerous false teaching.”
—Douglas Kruger
Author of Political Correctness Does More Harm Than Good: How to Identify, Debunk, and Dismantle Dangerous Ideas
—Samuel C. Smith, Ph.D.
Chair and Graduate Program Director, Department of History, Liberty University
In order to understand why so many evangelicals recently support left-leaning political causes, it is important to know a little history.
In the 1970s, many campus radicals raised in Christian homes brought neo-Marxist ideas from college back to church with them. At first, figures like Jim Wallis, Ron Sider, and Richard Mouw made great gains for their progressive evangelical cause. But, after the defeat of Jimmy Carter, the religious right stole the headlines.
Today, a new crop of mainstream evangelicals has taken up the cause of the New Left, whether they know it or not. As pro-life evangelicals rush to support movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo, it is important to realize they are walking in footprints already laid down. Their mission may be more successful, but it is not new. To understand where the evangelical social justice movement is heading, it is vital to understand the origins of the movement.
Social Justice Goes to Church: The New Left in Modern American Evangelicalism answers, from a historical perspective, the vital question, "Why are American evangelicals moving Left?"
“The great injunction to the Church was to preach the Gospel to the world, while not being of the world. Social justice neatly reverses this trend, preaching the ways of the world into the church. That is not its only critical reversal. The Gospel is about freedom from guilt and sin and bondage. Social justice seeks above all to apportion guilt and sin and bondage, enslaving entire demographics and requiring that they kneel before man in attrition. How important that a book of this nature should enter the fray right now. I applaud Mr. Harris for his excellent work in providing the practical means of identifying and repelling this fraudulent force, this ideological interloper, this dangerous false teaching.”
—Douglas Kruger
Author of Political Correctness Does More Harm Than Good: How to Identify, Debunk, and Dismantle Dangerous Ideas
208 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2020
88 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
Jon Harris
3 books21 followersJon Harris became a Christian at a young age and has been involved in college/career and music ministry for much of his Christian life. He has an M.Div. from Southeastern Seminary and an M.A. in History from Liberty University. Jon hosts the "Conversations That Matter" podcast. He enjoys outdoor sports, including fishing, hiking, cycling, and skiing. Jon is a member of the Catskill 3500 Club and enjoys getting outside every chance he has.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 12, 2020
"Social Justice Goes to Church" is a historical work, retelling the story the way the modern evangelical left grew out of disillusioned fundamentalists in the middle of the twentieth century. Jon Harris focuses on evangelicals like Richard Mouw, Jim Wallis, Ron Sider, Wes Granberg-Michaelson, Sharon Gallagher, John Alexander, and the book ends with an appendix on Tim Keller. Others are discussed as well, though mostly in relation to the primary cast of characters.
Harris focuses on the development of the evangelical left, which worked hard to maintain a sense of orthodoxy through emphasizing the authority of Scripture. But they then developed the use of Scripture to defend and establish their view of social issues--particularly poverty, racial equality, and the role of women.
The politics of the evangelical left seem to be an outworking of their dissatisfaction with the fundamentalism of their parents, their conviction of the evil of the Vietnam War, and most importantly--the impact of socialist ideology upon their worldview. Throughout, they seem to have a sympathetic view of the critique of Marxism and the validity of elements of the Marxist worldview. This is especially evident in the appendix on Tim Keller.
Overall the book is detailed, fairly thorough, and establishes the way in which the evangelical left that took root in evangelicalism in the 1970s became firmly established in the colleges, seminaries, and finally churches. It is now with us--stronger than ever and has grown up. Harris clearly sees a connection between the evangelical left of the last thirty years with the development of the "woke" church. This is a good, engaging history of the evangelical left and an important read to know the history of the worldview taking root in the evangelical world.
Harris focuses on the development of the evangelical left, which worked hard to maintain a sense of orthodoxy through emphasizing the authority of Scripture. But they then developed the use of Scripture to defend and establish their view of social issues--particularly poverty, racial equality, and the role of women.
The politics of the evangelical left seem to be an outworking of their dissatisfaction with the fundamentalism of their parents, their conviction of the evil of the Vietnam War, and most importantly--the impact of socialist ideology upon their worldview. Throughout, they seem to have a sympathetic view of the critique of Marxism and the validity of elements of the Marxist worldview. This is especially evident in the appendix on Tim Keller.
Overall the book is detailed, fairly thorough, and establishes the way in which the evangelical left that took root in evangelicalism in the 1970s became firmly established in the colleges, seminaries, and finally churches. It is now with us--stronger than ever and has grown up. Harris clearly sees a connection between the evangelical left of the last thirty years with the development of the "woke" church. This is a good, engaging history of the evangelical left and an important read to know the history of the worldview taking root in the evangelical world.
February 19, 2021
Does it seem to you that Evangelicalism has changed overnight from a bastion of conservatism to a more accommodating liberalism? Have you wondered who brought in all these new ideas? This book will give you a concise history of the leaders and thinkers who have brought social justice and cultural Marxism into the Church.
It is also a good reference and one that I will look back to many times. Each of the early chapters is a brief biography of one leader. Then the next few chapters explain their efforts and methods at changing Christendom in the ’70s. It finishes with their seeming defeat in the '80s and their current resurgence.
This wasn’t quite what I was expecting though. I was looking for more of a history and explanation of the development of their beliefs. I was just not versed enough in Marxist or Liberation theology to understand some of the more indirect references. A little more explanation now and then would have been helpful.
I would still recommend it. It will inform you about the theological stances of many extremely prominent leaders and authors that have sought to change so many orthodox Christian interpretations of the Bible and its social application.
It is also a good reference and one that I will look back to many times. Each of the early chapters is a brief biography of one leader. Then the next few chapters explain their efforts and methods at changing Christendom in the ’70s. It finishes with their seeming defeat in the '80s and their current resurgence.
This wasn’t quite what I was expecting though. I was looking for more of a history and explanation of the development of their beliefs. I was just not versed enough in Marxist or Liberation theology to understand some of the more indirect references. A little more explanation now and then would have been helpful.
I would still recommend it. It will inform you about the theological stances of many extremely prominent leaders and authors that have sought to change so many orthodox Christian interpretations of the Bible and its social application.
January 5, 2021
A good history of the rise, fall and rise again of leftist views among American Evangelicals
The key thing to know about this book is that it is a thoroughly-documented history of leftists and their views within the American Evangelical tradition. If all you want to know is who said what, when and where, this book will meet your needs.
Unfortunately, I've already lived much of that history, read many of those books, heard some of those speakers. What I was looking for was not a history but an analysis of the IDEAS of the new left - how and why they justified their teachings for a sola Scriptura audience (people who believe only the Bible is authoritative for Christian faith and practice.) That, it mostly failed to do, or even try to do.
The reason I wanted such a book was because our current pastor is very much into these ideas, so I wanted to help ground him in how they do or don't fit into the actual teachings of Jesus.
Fortunately, another new book here "Why Social Justice Is Not Biblical Justice", by Scott David Allen does exactly what I wanted, clearly explaining the ideas of the new left worldview alongside those found in the Bible, clearly comparing and contrasting them point by point.
Note: For some unknown reason, Amazon is refusing to accept my review of this book, even though I purchased it directly from them on Kindle this past week, and despite my being a Vine Reviewer.
The key thing to know about this book is that it is a thoroughly-documented history of leftists and their views within the American Evangelical tradition. If all you want to know is who said what, when and where, this book will meet your needs.
Unfortunately, I've already lived much of that history, read many of those books, heard some of those speakers. What I was looking for was not a history but an analysis of the IDEAS of the new left - how and why they justified their teachings for a sola Scriptura audience (people who believe only the Bible is authoritative for Christian faith and practice.) That, it mostly failed to do, or even try to do.
The reason I wanted such a book was because our current pastor is very much into these ideas, so I wanted to help ground him in how they do or don't fit into the actual teachings of Jesus.
Fortunately, another new book here "Why Social Justice Is Not Biblical Justice", by Scott David Allen does exactly what I wanted, clearly explaining the ideas of the new left worldview alongside those found in the Bible, clearly comparing and contrasting them point by point.
Note: For some unknown reason, Amazon is refusing to accept my review of this book, even though I purchased it directly from them on Kindle this past week, and despite my being a Vine Reviewer.
October 21, 2020
This book is a much needed work to help trace the historical roots of the social justice movement. If you feel like you’ve suddenly woke (no pun intended) up to all of your favorite bible teachers and Christian leaders embracing forms of critical theory and utilizing social justice language, Jon’s book will help you understand why. He begins by tracing the history of the religious left in the 60’s and 70’s (think guys like Jim Wallis and Ron Sider) and then demonstrates how they are connected to what is currently taking place in the evangelical church. Essentially: the work of the religious left in years past is now bearing fruit. Recommended.
January 13, 2021
The book fails to take into account the perspectives of marginalized communities who face racism in White evangelical circles and how the social justice movement has deep roots in Christianity. The author centers fearmongering with Republican talking points instead of a true Christ-centered worldview that explores why young Evangelicals like myself have left their denomination and demand systemic change that embraces our brothers and sisters who have suffered under the white legalism and racism of the white American church. I would recommend reading Drew G. I. Hart’s “Changjng the way the church views racism” and Rachel Held Evan’s “Faith Unraveling.”
October 23, 2020
This is a fantastic history book of the rise and fall of progressive ideas in American Evangelicalism, and thoroughly documents specific key leaders and figure heads of the movement, both past and present. This is NOT a strong analysis of the ideas and ideals perpetuated by progressive Christians today; it is a history book (which was the author's intent). If you are interested in a more in-depth analysis of leftist evangelical theory and how to engage with it, I highly recommend listening to the author, Jon Harris's talks on the podcast "Conversations That Matter," where in three sessions he thoroughly unpacks the history and theories of social justice in Christianity today (Session 1: The History of Social Justice, Session 2: The Social Justice Religion and Standpoint Epistemology, Session 3: Egalitarianism and Marxist Theory in Christianity).
January 28, 2024
This is a great read if you’re looking for a historical overview of the evangelical church’s grappling with New Left and neo-Marxist principles and mission. Harris provides biographies of prominent Christian New Left leaders before recounting the history of their influence. He is extremely thorough in his research - it is unusual to see a page with less than three footnotes, and the book contains 31 pages of bibliography (15% of the book’s length).
Harris helpfully demonstrates the current schism and leftward drift in evangelicalism is a revival of the 1970s New Left movement, which began to lose its appeal after Ronald Regan defeated President Jimmy Carter in the 1980 election. The works of Richard Mouw, Ron Sider, and Jim Wallis continue to influence prominent evangelical figures, such as Russell Moore and Timothy Keller; institutions, like the SBC’s ERLC; and publications, for example, The Gospel Coalition and Christianity Today. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with being influenced in principle, but we must heed the Apostle John’s teaching to test the spirits to discern if any and all teaching is in agreement with God’s entire revelation. This book can be a useful resource for such testing.
Harris helpfully demonstrates the current schism and leftward drift in evangelicalism is a revival of the 1970s New Left movement, which began to lose its appeal after Ronald Regan defeated President Jimmy Carter in the 1980 election. The works of Richard Mouw, Ron Sider, and Jim Wallis continue to influence prominent evangelical figures, such as Russell Moore and Timothy Keller; institutions, like the SBC’s ERLC; and publications, for example, The Gospel Coalition and Christianity Today. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with being influenced in principle, but we must heed the Apostle John’s teaching to test the spirits to discern if any and all teaching is in agreement with God’s entire revelation. This book can be a useful resource for such testing.
December 27, 2021
I cannot say enough how Jon Harris has helped me in recent years. He’s a consistent and biblical voice in the battle against the false gospel of social justice and I praise God for his ministry. I cannot recommend this (and any work of Jon’s; books, podcast, etc..) enough.
July 24, 2021
Not a bad wee book, but not what I was expecting either. It is descriptive but not so much prescriptive, or concerned with critical engagement, like Voddie Baucham's brilliant book was. That's my fault though. I was intrigued by the title, when it came up on Audible and quickly clicked to buy. It really is focused specifically on American Evangelical issues however, that are often not of direct concern to Catholics, Orthodox, and even the more confessional in Ireland, or elsewhere. (3 stars for me but I'll give it 4 for US Christians)
It is still fascinating to see how ideas from the New Left (Marcuse and that whole cadre of one dimensional men) and earlier 'progressives' have taken hold of the churches in the USA. Christians often copy the dominant secularist culture and use Bible verses as proof texts out of context to justify their positions. Filtering their pre-conceived preferred political agendas through the Bible. The author gives numerous examples.
Many diverse Evangelicals are happy to follow what is in vogue and claim it as a 'renewal' of 'the early church' or 'authentic Gospel'.
I could be wrong but this seems to raise the serious problem of having no clear ecclesiology. (Not that there is any really clear ecclesiology for us high church folk either. Haha)
Because they often lack the canons, councils, and clerical authority of Catholics and Orthodox, many Evangelicals seem to be vulnerable on a number of distinct fronts. People can make it up as they go along (through expressive individualism, Marxian determinism, and/or others): think 'non-denominational', 'progressive churches' or the 'prosperity gospel', and they proceed to present this as 'the gospel'.
There is no clear and binding authority to show that someone or whole communities have indeed read into the text the most fashionable ideological contagions from five minutes previous. It seems we really do require an interpretive community we can trust and God gave us the great mercy of His visible historical church- for all the faults.
That doesn't mean it is necessarily Catholic or Orthodox. High church Anglicans, Protestants who are more confessional, etc will argue their cases about the binding authority of the historical church as well.
However, it does show, I think, that Americans, and we all, need to wrestle seriously with hermeneutics, put some stock in the church as it presents itself historically and visibly through the ages, and not be taken in by the more crude 'fundamentalisms' or 'progressive' takes of what constitute the Gospel today, nor bend the knee to today's dominant secularist ideologies...
"And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
It is still fascinating to see how ideas from the New Left (Marcuse and that whole cadre of one dimensional men) and earlier 'progressives' have taken hold of the churches in the USA. Christians often copy the dominant secularist culture and use Bible verses as proof texts out of context to justify their positions. Filtering their pre-conceived preferred political agendas through the Bible. The author gives numerous examples.
Many diverse Evangelicals are happy to follow what is in vogue and claim it as a 'renewal' of 'the early church' or 'authentic Gospel'.
I could be wrong but this seems to raise the serious problem of having no clear ecclesiology. (Not that there is any really clear ecclesiology for us high church folk either. Haha)
Because they often lack the canons, councils, and clerical authority of Catholics and Orthodox, many Evangelicals seem to be vulnerable on a number of distinct fronts. People can make it up as they go along (through expressive individualism, Marxian determinism, and/or others): think 'non-denominational', 'progressive churches' or the 'prosperity gospel', and they proceed to present this as 'the gospel'.
There is no clear and binding authority to show that someone or whole communities have indeed read into the text the most fashionable ideological contagions from five minutes previous. It seems we really do require an interpretive community we can trust and God gave us the great mercy of His visible historical church- for all the faults.
That doesn't mean it is necessarily Catholic or Orthodox. High church Anglicans, Protestants who are more confessional, etc will argue their cases about the binding authority of the historical church as well.
However, it does show, I think, that Americans, and we all, need to wrestle seriously with hermeneutics, put some stock in the church as it presents itself historically and visibly through the ages, and not be taken in by the more crude 'fundamentalisms' or 'progressive' takes of what constitute the Gospel today, nor bend the knee to today's dominant secularist ideologies...
"And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
December 8, 2020
Jon Harris is certainly ambitious in his activism and ministry, and in this new work his passion bleeds into words and dare to speak against the social justice religion being witnessed in the current generation. Specifically, Harris intricately weaves the history of Social Justice pertaining to its infiltration of the church, and Christian doctrine over nearly the last century. The goal, to explain how the doctrines that are now prevalent in the church have pervertedly been introduced through many years of steadfast work.
I enjoyed reading Jon's book, and I think that most like-minded individuals will as well. Furthermore, I have to say that although the book was enlightening and abundant in historical facts/knowledge, it is difficult to follow at points. Jumping from different points of time to different types of doctrines, to different theories, or different mindsets, or the vast amount of different religious theory - is exhausting. Although it was not a difficult read, I did find myself somewhat lost at certain points within the early chapters.
I think this is a beneficial read for many, and I would definitely recommend it!
I enjoyed reading Jon's book, and I think that most like-minded individuals will as well. Furthermore, I have to say that although the book was enlightening and abundant in historical facts/knowledge, it is difficult to follow at points. Jumping from different points of time to different types of doctrines, to different theories, or different mindsets, or the vast amount of different religious theory - is exhausting. Although it was not a difficult read, I did find myself somewhat lost at certain points within the early chapters.
I think this is a beneficial read for many, and I would definitely recommend it!
September 15, 2021
This is Harris’s MA thesis repurposed into a book. His nominal purpose is to document how ideas of the “New Left” have had a sustained impact on evangelical Christianity via a small cadre of disaffected baby boomers since the 60s. There are a number of criticisms I could make about the book but will note here only the most glaring one: Harris does not bother define the “New Left.” This alone would seem to disqualify it as an academic work. The defecit isn’t ameliorated by a clarifying narrative in what follows. Herbert Mercuse and C. Wright Mills are footnotes and their work is not explained. His interchangeable ascribing to the characters in this book the titles of “New Left,” Marxist, progressive and liberal is dizzying to someone who is familiar with the academic use of those words and patently misleading to those who aren’t. Given Harris’ polemical stance as a public figure, there’s good reason to think the conflation is done to a purpose.
January 5, 2021
Jon Harris here takes a concise look at the rise and proliferation of 'New Left' thinking within modern American evangelicalism. Harris is a graduate of Southeastern Seminary and Liberty University as well as host of the Conversations that Matter podcast on YouTube.
Harris' book provides an excellent overview of the main figures involved in promoting Social Justice theories within evangelicalism, their setbacks and strategies during the 70s and 80s, and their increasing success in today's evangelical culture. His examination of key players in separate chapters, such as Jim Wallis and Richard Mouw, forms the first part of the book, and is a useful resource for Christians looking to inform themselves of the dangerous men who have championed this movement. In this regard, the book would serve as ideal recommending reading for a college or graduate course.
There are two areas in which I felt the book could be improved. Firstly, much of the book consists of information, or synthesis (which is very useful), but there is little subsequent analysis or advice on how Christians should respond. The book is replete with source material and quotations, but at times I was hungry for some analysis or indication of what Jon Harris proposed as a solution or response. In my view, this addition would have brought the book from being an academic, dissertation-style document (which is useful) to a manual for action, which is desperately needed. Ironically, some of the best analysis is found in the foreword by Rev. Cary Gordon, which describes the church as becoming 'overwhelmingly overrun with a parasitic false gospel of social justice' and a Christian faith which is 'collapsing under the might of this parasite'.
Secondly, and more specifically, I would disagree somewhat with the characterisation which the author makes of Fundamentalism in chapter 13 and his comparison between the 'uncompromising posture' of Fundamentalism and the development of the 'New Left' movement. Firstly, there was much in the combative spirit of Fundamentalism which was commendable and ought to be revived - it is diffult to agree then when Harris writes that 'young progressives, like fundamentalists before them, assumed a necessarily dualistic ideology of good or evil which translated into a negative and combative posture' (p.102). Secondly, the Fundamentalist movement brought a blessing to the US and the world in many regards - such cannot be said of the 'New Left'. Harris' sustained comparison of both movements, is therefore in my estimation unfair, e.g. towards the end of chapter 13 he states that 'rigid and often extra-biblical and extra-confessional standards erected barriers for participation in both movements' (p.107). Whie the faults of many fundamentalists have long been documented, Harris' words here have the effect of presenting compromised neo-evangelicals such as Billy Graham and Harold J. Ockenga in a positive light. This is an Achilles' Heel argument - it was the docility of such men in 'co-existing' with Roman Catholicism and Marxism which paved the way for the wider infiltration of evanglicalism by activists.
The philandering of many modern evangelicals with the Social Justice movement calls into question their core beliefs - as I demonstrate in my book 'The Hedonism and Homosexuality of John Piper and Sam Allberry' (2020). Harris' book opens one's eyes to the heretical path taken by evangelical leaders today - indeed his chapter on Tim Killer is one of the best in this book. May it have a wide readership.
Harris' book provides an excellent overview of the main figures involved in promoting Social Justice theories within evangelicalism, their setbacks and strategies during the 70s and 80s, and their increasing success in today's evangelical culture. His examination of key players in separate chapters, such as Jim Wallis and Richard Mouw, forms the first part of the book, and is a useful resource for Christians looking to inform themselves of the dangerous men who have championed this movement. In this regard, the book would serve as ideal recommending reading for a college or graduate course.
There are two areas in which I felt the book could be improved. Firstly, much of the book consists of information, or synthesis (which is very useful), but there is little subsequent analysis or advice on how Christians should respond. The book is replete with source material and quotations, but at times I was hungry for some analysis or indication of what Jon Harris proposed as a solution or response. In my view, this addition would have brought the book from being an academic, dissertation-style document (which is useful) to a manual for action, which is desperately needed. Ironically, some of the best analysis is found in the foreword by Rev. Cary Gordon, which describes the church as becoming 'overwhelmingly overrun with a parasitic false gospel of social justice' and a Christian faith which is 'collapsing under the might of this parasite'.
Secondly, and more specifically, I would disagree somewhat with the characterisation which the author makes of Fundamentalism in chapter 13 and his comparison between the 'uncompromising posture' of Fundamentalism and the development of the 'New Left' movement. Firstly, there was much in the combative spirit of Fundamentalism which was commendable and ought to be revived - it is diffult to agree then when Harris writes that 'young progressives, like fundamentalists before them, assumed a necessarily dualistic ideology of good or evil which translated into a negative and combative posture' (p.102). Secondly, the Fundamentalist movement brought a blessing to the US and the world in many regards - such cannot be said of the 'New Left'. Harris' sustained comparison of both movements, is therefore in my estimation unfair, e.g. towards the end of chapter 13 he states that 'rigid and often extra-biblical and extra-confessional standards erected barriers for participation in both movements' (p.107). Whie the faults of many fundamentalists have long been documented, Harris' words here have the effect of presenting compromised neo-evangelicals such as Billy Graham and Harold J. Ockenga in a positive light. This is an Achilles' Heel argument - it was the docility of such men in 'co-existing' with Roman Catholicism and Marxism which paved the way for the wider infiltration of evanglicalism by activists.
The philandering of many modern evangelicals with the Social Justice movement calls into question their core beliefs - as I demonstrate in my book 'The Hedonism and Homosexuality of John Piper and Sam Allberry' (2020). Harris' book opens one's eyes to the heretical path taken by evangelical leaders today - indeed his chapter on Tim Killer is one of the best in this book. May it have a wide readership.
June 19, 2024
This is a great, brief historical overview of how progressive ideas from the 1970s have infiltrated today's evangelical churches and church leaders. Harris himself performs the part of a historian quite well, in giving the reader a plethora of facts and source materials while withholding much of his own opinions on the subject matter at hand. If any Christian today wonders about the modern church's leftward drift, thinking, "How did we get here?" he will find this book very enlightening.
The "new" ideas of today are just the failed ideas of yesterday. The "new" interpretations of Scripture today are just the old, worldly ideas of yesterday. There truly is nothing new under the Sun.
The "new" ideas of today are just the failed ideas of yesterday. The "new" interpretations of Scripture today are just the old, worldly ideas of yesterday. There truly is nothing new under the Sun.
June 20, 2021
This is a good overview of the historical movements and connection to the current landscape.
The description of the ideas themselves are not always well described. This is a good companion book to go with ‘Why Social Justice is Not Biblical Justice’ by Allen and ‘What Every Christian Needs to Know About Social Justice’ by Johnson as they describe the philosophical and theological ideas really well.
The description of the ideas themselves are not always well described. This is a good companion book to go with ‘Why Social Justice is Not Biblical Justice’ by Allen and ‘What Every Christian Needs to Know About Social Justice’ by Johnson as they describe the philosophical and theological ideas really well.
December 11, 2020
Excellent organization and documentation. Highly recommended!
April 13, 2022
What we see today happening in even evangelical churches is the manifestation of liberal theology started 50 years ago with sojourners and Jim Wallace, among others. Church history, even modern history, enables a clearer perspective on current trends.
January 16, 2021
Fantastic history on the evangelical social justice movement. Focus is 60's to present and addresses the works of many including Wallis, Mouw, Sider and Keller.
November 18, 2020
This was a fantastic book, it is a quick read and kind of a birds eye view of how the progress ideas got a hold of so many of our modern Christian institutions, especially the progress ideas of Marx, but how ultimately Marxism and how the whole point of Christ and Christianity was the plight of the oppressed no matter what groups they are, be women, racial, and now even in terms of sexual preferences.
The most disturbing aspect of this is how so many of the first people to embrace this radical shift in traditional Christianity was the fact that so many of the people who founded these progressive Christian institutes, such as Sojourners, Christianity Today, Campus Crusade, and many more, came from relatively orthodox and traditional Christian background, but did not think the individual aspect of the Gospel was enough, that Christians had a moral obligation to save society, but the Gospel wasn't enough, they had to embrace the means of Marxism to advocate for those of the oppressed groups.
They thought the church was negligent in its approach in dealing with society problems, especially, in light of the Vietnam War and racial segregation at the time, and with the radicalization of the culture that was taking place on college campuses, including Christian seminaries.
This book is a must read if you want to understand the current underpinnings of what is happening in churches right now, especially, the SBC, David Platt, Timothy Keller, and their embracing #BLM and other such things now, even including #GayMirage and many now embracing the Murder of the unborn in order to justify what Progressive Christianity views as the more socially conscience party, aka, the Democratic party voting and support of Christians in spite of the Party's whole sale rejection of God and Biblical authority, and Christian values.
This book is focused more on the aspects of Social Justice, but briefly talks about Critical Race Theory, which needs its own book.
The most disturbing aspect of this is how so many of the first people to embrace this radical shift in traditional Christianity was the fact that so many of the people who founded these progressive Christian institutes, such as Sojourners, Christianity Today, Campus Crusade, and many more, came from relatively orthodox and traditional Christian background, but did not think the individual aspect of the Gospel was enough, that Christians had a moral obligation to save society, but the Gospel wasn't enough, they had to embrace the means of Marxism to advocate for those of the oppressed groups.
They thought the church was negligent in its approach in dealing with society problems, especially, in light of the Vietnam War and racial segregation at the time, and with the radicalization of the culture that was taking place on college campuses, including Christian seminaries.
This book is a must read if you want to understand the current underpinnings of what is happening in churches right now, especially, the SBC, David Platt, Timothy Keller, and their embracing #BLM and other such things now, even including #GayMirage and many now embracing the Murder of the unborn in order to justify what Progressive Christianity views as the more socially conscience party, aka, the Democratic party voting and support of Christians in spite of the Party's whole sale rejection of God and Biblical authority, and Christian values.
This book is focused more on the aspects of Social Justice, but briefly talks about Critical Race Theory, which needs its own book.
October 20, 2021
This book was a disappointment. It seems mostly to be just a catalog of New Evangelical leaders and groups.
August 1, 2023
(Audiobook) Very informative and a helpful resource
June 23, 2021
I don’t know a lot about recent church history, especially when it comes to progressive vs. evangelical, but this book filled the gaps for me. Jon Harris goes all the way back to the 70s as he relates the rise and fall and subsequent rise of “the new left in modern American evangelicalism.” The book is divided into four parts, each part concentrating on a different aspect of that history.
Part one is dedicated to six specific individuals who had an impact on the church in the 70s as well as the historical and cultural events that had an impact on them, including, but not limited to, the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. Each of these influencers, in their own way, decided that the way the church interpreted the Bible and applied it to daily life was not enough to address the injustices of the world. The Chicago Declaration of Evangelical Social Concern which was signed in 1973, reminds me a lot of the statements that have been written and signed recently which address similar things: materialism, feminism, social justice, racial reconciliation, etc.
The next chapters go more in depth about the connection between certain organizations and universities and the people involved in them. Harris describes how, in an attempt to address the issues mentioned in the Chicago Declaration, some evangelicals started to align themselves with some politicians and spoke out against others. They also tried to distance themselves from “fundamentalism” and “American nationalism.”
The most informative part of this book, in my opinion, was actually the appendix, which unveiled not well known details about a well-known pastor and author. I was pretty shocked at what I read since this person has been very influential in my life in many ways. Now that I know these things, I don’t discount how God used this person for good, but it helped me to see that we can’t put our hope in man overly much.
While this book contained lots of pertinent information, and I do recommend it, to be honest, it was a bit difficult to read. The writing style was stiff and wordy, and there were a lot of footnotes to keep track of. It read more like one academic essay instead of a book.
Part one is dedicated to six specific individuals who had an impact on the church in the 70s as well as the historical and cultural events that had an impact on them, including, but not limited to, the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. Each of these influencers, in their own way, decided that the way the church interpreted the Bible and applied it to daily life was not enough to address the injustices of the world. The Chicago Declaration of Evangelical Social Concern which was signed in 1973, reminds me a lot of the statements that have been written and signed recently which address similar things: materialism, feminism, social justice, racial reconciliation, etc.
The next chapters go more in depth about the connection between certain organizations and universities and the people involved in them. Harris describes how, in an attempt to address the issues mentioned in the Chicago Declaration, some evangelicals started to align themselves with some politicians and spoke out against others. They also tried to distance themselves from “fundamentalism” and “American nationalism.”
The most informative part of this book, in my opinion, was actually the appendix, which unveiled not well known details about a well-known pastor and author. I was pretty shocked at what I read since this person has been very influential in my life in many ways. Now that I know these things, I don’t discount how God used this person for good, but it helped me to see that we can’t put our hope in man overly much.
While this book contained lots of pertinent information, and I do recommend it, to be honest, it was a bit difficult to read. The writing style was stiff and wordy, and there were a lot of footnotes to keep track of. It read more like one academic essay instead of a book.
December 27, 2022
Highly recommend. Especially to help counter the social justice that's infiltrated into the church thru various progressives that are highly regarded by younger evangelicals. I grew alarmed as I saw more fellow Christians read and recommend social justice advocates such as Tisby and Rachel Held Evans and even BLM. At the same time I'd hear well known popular Christian speakers/teachers, ie Piper, Matt Chandler, Russell Moore, Tim Keller, start using social justice lingo and supporting social justice, adding it into the gospel.
Granted there are many problems within the Church, and they've come to a head over the past few years. Social justice is just one of them, and unfortunately it's taking many people - christians too- captive. Who doesn't lament the evil in the world and wish to be a part of the change? However, that's totally ignoring the reason for discord - sin, and forgetting the mission, given by God, to Christians. Now, the Gospel has been shoved out of the church mission, people believe they can save/change the world on their own, and God's name is used to make social justice holy and sacred.
The book is very academically written, had to re-read sentences and paragraphs a few times to be sure what I read was clearly understood. The history, and people connections Harris builds on is helpful to see the influence and direction through history. Seeing the role various people had did clear up the confusion on why & what they say and endorse now. Especially Keller since he seemed to have grown in popularity for some odd reason (before I knew his background). He has become a frustrating man to understand; he talks in circles and his theology is murky. And he mainly talks about social issues than the gospel now. No, thank you. To learn of his background explains so much.
Granted there are many problems within the Church, and they've come to a head over the past few years. Social justice is just one of them, and unfortunately it's taking many people - christians too- captive. Who doesn't lament the evil in the world and wish to be a part of the change? However, that's totally ignoring the reason for discord - sin, and forgetting the mission, given by God, to Christians. Now, the Gospel has been shoved out of the church mission, people believe they can save/change the world on their own, and God's name is used to make social justice holy and sacred.
The book is very academically written, had to re-read sentences and paragraphs a few times to be sure what I read was clearly understood. The history, and people connections Harris builds on is helpful to see the influence and direction through history. Seeing the role various people had did clear up the confusion on why & what they say and endorse now. Especially Keller since he seemed to have grown in popularity for some odd reason (before I knew his background). He has become a frustrating man to understand; he talks in circles and his theology is murky. And he mainly talks about social issues than the gospel now. No, thank you. To learn of his background explains so much.
May 4, 2021
Good book. It is less of an analysis or critique of ideas, and more of a history and genealogy of the evangelical left. It connects the dots between different people and movements, mostly from the 1960s to the present. And I appreciated the dot-connecting.
If I wanted to be picky and critique:
1) This information is useful, but even with some existing familiarity, it was easy to get lost in all of the names. To compensate, I started creating my own chronological diagram of names to lay it all out.
2) The entire book has names and short quotes continually strung together, in a density that surpasses most any I've ever read. To pick a few sentences at random:
It's not that this makes it difficult to read, but it's not a typical analytical narrative that weaves together ideas to tell a story. It's more of an extended research paper, with lots of raw material, i.e. short quotes, with a bit of prose tying it together.
3) At times I wonder if the people portrayed are painted too briefly or with too broad of a brush; e.g. Kuyper is more nuanced than just a proponent of a "social gospel" but he comes across as guilty by association with modern left-leaning evangelicals, who may quote him occasionally; what does Kuyper actually say?
If I wanted to be picky and critique:
1) This information is useful, but even with some existing familiarity, it was easy to get lost in all of the names. To compensate, I started creating my own chronological diagram of names to lay it all out.
2) The entire book has names and short quotes continually strung together, in a density that surpasses most any I've ever read. To pick a few sentences at random:
Mark Hatfield thought it "dangerous" to "merge piety with...patriotism." John Perkins believed "cultural values like....patriotism" "nullified" Christian witness.
It's not that this makes it difficult to read, but it's not a typical analytical narrative that weaves together ideas to tell a story. It's more of an extended research paper, with lots of raw material, i.e. short quotes, with a bit of prose tying it together.
3) At times I wonder if the people portrayed are painted too briefly or with too broad of a brush; e.g. Kuyper is more nuanced than just a proponent of a "social gospel" but he comes across as guilty by association with modern left-leaning evangelicals, who may quote him occasionally; what does Kuyper actually say?
January 25, 2021
Over the past year or so, I have often found myself wondering how the destructive social justice ideas have become so popular in the American Church. If you have had the same thoughts, the content of this book brings answers and needed clarity, providing a glimpse into how these beliefs made inroads into the church and have grown throughout the years into what it is today.
The contents of this book are so relevant to where we are right now in our nation. Harris sequentially lays out within this book how the concepts of social justice really took root in progressive Christian circles, becoming more and more popular in the 70s. He follows the main players and those who really pushed these ideas, describing their lives and beliefs. These included people such as Jim Wallace, Sharon Gallagher, Ron Sider and more. He finishes off his book discussing one of the major voices within the evangelical church today that endorses and preaches social justice ideologies: Tim Keller.
This is not really a critique of ideas, just a summary of what the ideas are and how they have popularized throughout the years. This is more of a textbook kind of read, filled with endless excerpts from countless other books and primary sources. The bibliography at the end of the book is quite impressive. Jon Harris has definitely done his research trying to put these concepts together in a way that is linear to the reader and makes sense. I really appreciate his work and dedication to this book. Though it may take some mental stamina to get though this book, the end result will be that you will come out on the other side better understanding the times in which we live and how we got here in the first place. I highly recommend this book.
The contents of this book are so relevant to where we are right now in our nation. Harris sequentially lays out within this book how the concepts of social justice really took root in progressive Christian circles, becoming more and more popular in the 70s. He follows the main players and those who really pushed these ideas, describing their lives and beliefs. These included people such as Jim Wallace, Sharon Gallagher, Ron Sider and more. He finishes off his book discussing one of the major voices within the evangelical church today that endorses and preaches social justice ideologies: Tim Keller.
This is not really a critique of ideas, just a summary of what the ideas are and how they have popularized throughout the years. This is more of a textbook kind of read, filled with endless excerpts from countless other books and primary sources. The bibliography at the end of the book is quite impressive. Jon Harris has definitely done his research trying to put these concepts together in a way that is linear to the reader and makes sense. I really appreciate his work and dedication to this book. Though it may take some mental stamina to get though this book, the end result will be that you will come out on the other side better understanding the times in which we live and how we got here in the first place. I highly recommend this book.
February 20, 2021
This is a detailed, meticulously researched and heavily footnoted history of the Evangelical Left—from their origins in the 1960s and 70s and the myriad ways they influenced (or failed to influence) mainstream evangelicalism.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. I follow the author’s online content (podcasts/YouTube), so I’m very familiar with his perspective on the theology and politics of lefty evangelicalism. But this book is remarkably free of the author’s opinions: it’s a purely descriptive account with virtually no editorializing. At first I was mildly disappointed, but then I realized it was my expectations that were wrong. Harris’ history provides a helpful context to understanding the very concerning teachings (sometimes mere insinuations) seeping out of Big Eva in 2021, as represented by The Gospel Coalition, Tim Keller, Russell Moore, and others.
Next, I’m on to a few other books that I hope will broaden my fundamental understanding of Biblical justice and the various viewpoints in conflict:
“Generous Justice” by Tim Keller
“Why Social Justice is not Biblical Justice” by Scott David Allen
“A Justice Primer” by Doug Wilson and Randy Booth
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. I follow the author’s online content (podcasts/YouTube), so I’m very familiar with his perspective on the theology and politics of lefty evangelicalism. But this book is remarkably free of the author’s opinions: it’s a purely descriptive account with virtually no editorializing. At first I was mildly disappointed, but then I realized it was my expectations that were wrong. Harris’ history provides a helpful context to understanding the very concerning teachings (sometimes mere insinuations) seeping out of Big Eva in 2021, as represented by The Gospel Coalition, Tim Keller, Russell Moore, and others.
Next, I’m on to a few other books that I hope will broaden my fundamental understanding of Biblical justice and the various viewpoints in conflict:
“Generous Justice” by Tim Keller
“Why Social Justice is not Biblical Justice” by Scott David Allen
“A Justice Primer” by Doug Wilson and Randy Booth
July 1, 2023
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I was expecting this book to be more of a Scripture-based exploration into the topic of social justice in the church, but it turned out to be more of a historical account of several prominent figures in the “evangelical” social justice movement. The author didn’t really make any arguments for or against, nor did he hold any of the perspectives mentioned in the book up to Scripture to discern whether or not they were carried any validity.
It was interesting to read a bit more about the roots of the social justice movement and progressive Christianity (the roots being only a few decades ago). But I must say it often felt like a compilation of quotes… the amount of quotation marks in every paragraph was distracting and the list of sources at the end of each chapter was almost as long as the chapter itself. Maybe some people would this format, but I found it excessive. I would’ve much rather read Harris’ gleanings from his study of the history of social justice, his critiques of it as a witness to this movement in the church.
I was expecting this book to be more of a Scripture-based exploration into the topic of social justice in the church, but it turned out to be more of a historical account of several prominent figures in the “evangelical” social justice movement. The author didn’t really make any arguments for or against, nor did he hold any of the perspectives mentioned in the book up to Scripture to discern whether or not they were carried any validity.
It was interesting to read a bit more about the roots of the social justice movement and progressive Christianity (the roots being only a few decades ago). But I must say it often felt like a compilation of quotes… the amount of quotation marks in every paragraph was distracting and the list of sources at the end of each chapter was almost as long as the chapter itself. Maybe some people would this format, but I found it excessive. I would’ve much rather read Harris’ gleanings from his study of the history of social justice, his critiques of it as a witness to this movement in the church.
October 8, 2021
A very, very good historical overview of progressive/liberal Christianity that is dispassionate and rather objective. He does a great job identifying the core values of the movement (social justice, feminism, sexual identity and gender issues).
It’s interesting to realize that the progressive leaders since the 1960s have been more embracing of political involvement and clout than traditional evangelicals.
Highly recommend for a solid grasp on where we are today in American Christianity and why so many contemporary evangelical leaders seem to be parroting ideas of the 1960s/1970s New Left leaders.
It’s interesting to realize that the progressive leaders since the 1960s have been more embracing of political involvement and clout than traditional evangelicals.
Highly recommend for a solid grasp on where we are today in American Christianity and why so many contemporary evangelical leaders seem to be parroting ideas of the 1960s/1970s New Left leaders.
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November 21, 2020This is a well written historical analysis with quite a few names and sources to follow, which, if you are like me, is difficult without previous familiarity with such sources. I expect it would benefit greatly to now listen to Jon's three sessions of social justice history / issues, etc. I skipped them previously because I wanted to read this book first. These videos are found on his Conversations That Matter Podcast.
January 29, 2021
Harris traces the history of the evangelical left and the social justice movement. Like many others have said, this is not an analysis of ideas taught but a history of those ideas. Harris lays out how the concepts of social justice took root in progressive Christian circles. He even ends the book by analyzing Keller's social justice ideology. It definitely reads more like a textbook than anything. This was a pretty dry read in my opinion.
July 28, 2021
So this is a good book to read for those devoted to learning about the history of how the social justice movement started. I say devoted bc it’s written essentially like a history survey of the topic. For someone who had just finished Fault Lines and was seeking how to practically deal with CRT and wokeness even further, it’s certainly not what I had in mind. Like I said, good and helpful knowledge. But no application. Just history.
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