A History Of Christianity (2009)

S1E5 Protestantism: The Evangelical Explosion

Diarmaid MacCulloch explores the vibrant rise of Evangelical Protestantism, a movement that has taken root worldwide. While often linked to conservative politics today, its origins reveal a more surprising narrative. Many overlook that the Evangelical surge was fueled by a passion for social justice and the belief in a personal, emotional connection with God. This movement transcended its European origins, with American preachers promoting Christianity with the same zeal and creativity as the nation’s commerce. In Africa, it embraced local customs to gain followers, and now it is making inroads into Asia. Yet, does Korean Pentecostalism's focus on immediate prosperity represent a step too far in adaptation?