The Presbyterian Controversy: Fundamentalists, Modernists, and Moderates

by Bradley J. Longfield

This extensive reference work, hailed by the Journal of Religion as "a book long needed by historians of American religion", offers "a unique contribution to this often-told story by providing an in-depth analysis of seven persons intimately involved in the controversy" (Theology Today). 13 halftone illustrations.

Genres: History, Church History, Theology, Christianity

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 1991

Reviews

[Christian Brewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and astute analysis of the Presbyterian conflict in the 20s and 30s. Longfield begins by noting the “identity crisis” plaguing the mainline denomination, and to search its roots, he examines seven of the figureheads of the Presbyterian controversy (Fosdick, Machen, Jennings Bryan, Macartney, Erdman, Coffin, and Speer). These six characters show the diversity in both theological and cultural convictions. A helpful read, if narrow at times. The focus on these six characters leaves a little bit to be desired on the bigger picture. At times, Longfield’s own conviction and bias shows, but it doesn’t mar the story he tells. Written in ‘91, One wonders what would have happened in the PCUSA had they listened to his final call at the end of the book: “Clearly, if the mainstream churches are to resolve their identity crisis, they will have to do so on the basis of a biblical and creedal faith that is distinct from the values and norms of the surrounding culture.” (235)

[Bobby Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great overview of the seven main figures in the Presbyterian Controversy, both biographically and their specific contributions to the ecclesiological debates. For 8 of the 9 chapters the author (a professor in the PCUSA) lays out the facts of the controversy in a very balanced manner before giving some of his opinions in the last chapter and epilogue. While he’s not sympathetic to Machen’s schismatic spirit, he is very sympathetic to Machen’s arguments against both the liberals and moderates, even showing historic vindication of Machen’s predictions for the PCUSA. This would be an extremely informative book (and also very readable) for anyone interested in the Presbyterian Controversy.

[Jonah Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. A must read for Presbyterians and Non-Presbyterians alike.

[Alex]

I personally enjoyed this book and could not help but see the similarity between the "moderates" arguments and tactics used then, also being used today in American Presbyterianism (e.g. treating matters of theology/doctrine as matters of polity, pitting the mission and unity of the church over and against reformed confessional orthodoxy, etc.). This book also helped to demonstrate how not all "fundamentalists" were of the same 'stock' and held different fundamental philosophies not only with the "moderates" but among themselves as well.

[Taylor Rollo · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a helpful book showing the background to where we are today in the Church and why liberalism has grown so much. It is also very helpful in showing how our history/background determines a lot about how we approach critical situations, and we might have the same convictions about doctrine and goal but approach it very differently.

I will post a fuller review later.

[Andrew Galvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly informative account of the fundamentalist-modernist controversy within American Calvinism. Since this controversy took place roughly a century ago, it's interesting to track the different strands of evangelical thought and practice that have come down to us today and how they have affected our body politic.

[Joel Stanton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the chapter on J. Gresham Machen. I thought Longfield had several really intriguing theories on the influence of Machen's upbringing and cultural context on his decision to leave Princeton and the PC(USA).

[Sean McGowan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book. In some ways it is biographical of many of the major players in the Presbyterian controversies of the twentieth century. I really enjoyed its chapter on Machen and am eager to read more on him. Recommended!

[Chris Comis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good commentary on the historical debates in the early 20th c. among the different factions within the Presbyterian fold at the time. Essential reading for anyone who wants to know how the conservative Presbyterians ended up losing the battles they waged.

[TJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very indept history of the Fundamentalist and Modernist controversy in the Presbyterian church in the 1920's. Too detailed and obscure for me, but well written.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great.

[Paul SHane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great and fair history of the theological controversy in the beginning of the 20th century.