rise of Baptist republicanism, The
Book Description
The Southern Baptist Convention stands as America's largest Protestant denomination, wielding remarkable influence through its democratic governance structure and massive annual gatherings. This comprehensive examination reveals how the SBC has undergone a dramatic political transformation over recent decades, shifting from a denomination that welcomed diverse voices to one increasingly aligned with conservative Republican politics.
Author Oran P. Smith traces this evolution within the broader context of the Fundamentalist Right's ascension and the Republican Party's growing dominance across the South. The analysis explores how a religious institution that once provided a comfortable home for leaders like Harry Truman and Jimmy Carter has become increasingly unwelcoming to Democrats, progressive theologians, and moderate perspectives.
The book illuminates the SBC's strategic political maneuvering, including unexpected alliances with former adversaries, sophisticated lobbying efforts in Washington, and grassroots political organizing. Smith examines the theological, cultural, and historical forces that made Southern Baptists particularly receptive to Republican and fundamentalist influences.
For readers seeking to understand how religious institutions navigate political change, this work offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between faith communities and political movements. The study provides essential context for comprehending contemporary American religious and political dynamics, particularly the intersection of evangelical Christianity with conservative politics.
This thorough investigation serves anyone interested in understanding how spiritual communities adapt to changing cultural landscapes while maintaining their core identity and mission.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 320 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Southern Baptist Convention
- ✓ Explore Church history
- ✓ Explore Conservatism
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore United states, history, 1969-
- ✓ Explore Political activity
