Disfellowshiped

Book Description

Within the rich tapestry of American Christianity, two powerful movements emerged that would profoundly shape modern faith communities, yet their relationship remains largely misunderstood. Gerald W. King's scholarly exploration reveals the intricate dance between Pentecostalism and fundamentalism, tracing their shared origins in the Holiness movement through their eventual institutional development.

This comprehensive examination uncovers the fascinating exchanges of criticism and defense that characterized the relationship between these spiritual traditions. Rather than simply documenting their well-known conflicts, King delves deeper to illuminate the surprising commonalities that bound these movements together, even as they publicly opposed one another.

Through careful historical analysis, readers discover how Pentecostals and fundamentalists mutually influenced each other's theological development, organizational structures, and cultural expressions. The narrative follows their parallel journeys from grassroots revival movements to their eventual participation in the formation of the National Association of Evangelicals.

For those seeking to understand the complex landscape of American Christianity, this work offers valuable insights into how religious movements evolve, adapt, and interact with one another. King demonstrates that beneath surface-level disagreements often lie profound shared values and concerns that unite rather than divide.

This thoughtful study provides essential context for anyone interested in the historical forces that shaped contemporary evangelical and Pentecostal communities, revealing the unexpected unity within apparent diversity.