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Evangelicalism

Spreading the Christian faith and living according to the teachings of the Bible to achieve personal salvation and a transformed society.

Overview Issues Discuss

About

  • Evangelicalism is a global, trans-denominational movement within Protestant Christianity that maintains the belief that the essence of the Gospel consists of the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ's atonement. It is not a political ideology per se, but its followers often hold specific political views based on their religious beliefs.

    The roots of Evangelicalism can be traced back to the Reformation in the 16th century, but the movement as we know it today began in the 18th century with the Great Awakening in the United States and the Evangelical Revival in Britain. These movements were characterized by widespread revivals led by evangelical Protestant ministers, a sharp increase of interest in religion, a profound sense of conviction and redemption on the part of those affected, an increase in evangelical church membership, and the formation of new religious movements and denominations.

    Evangelicals believe in the centrality of the conversion or "born again" experience in receiving salvation, the authority of the Bible as God's revelation to humanity, and the spread of the Christian message. The movement has had a long and significant influence on social and political life, not just in the United States, but around the world.

    In the 20th century, Evangelicalism became increasingly organized. In the United States, the National Association of Evangelicals was formed in 1942, representing more than 45 denominations. The World Evangelical Alliance was founded in 1951, a global network of churches in 129 nations that have each formed an evangelical alliance.

    In terms of politics, Evangelicals have been involved in a number of social issues throughout history. In the 19th century, Evangelicals in Britain led the way in campaigning for the abolition of slavery. In the United States, Evangelicals have been associated with the right wing of the political spectrum, often supporting conservative candidates and causes. They have been particularly influential in shaping debates over issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and religious freedom. However, it's important to note that not all Evangelicals share the same political beliefs, and there is a wide range of views within the movement.

    In recent years, there has been a growing movement of progressive Evangelicals who advocate for issues such as environmental stewardship, poverty reduction, and immigration reform. This reflects the diversity within Evangelicalism and its ongoing evolution as a religious and social movement.

Similar ideologies

These ideologies are most similar to Evangelicalism.

Christian Fundamentalism

By strictly adhering to the Bible's teachings and principles, you will attain spiritual salvation and a deep, personal relationship with God.

Government SpendingTaxesMinimum WageTerm LimitsSingle-Payer Healthcare

Pro-Life

You believe life begins at conception and society has a duty to protect the most vulnerable, including the unborn.

Government SpendingTaxesMandatory Military ServiceAbortionTerm Limits

Anti-Abortion

Protecting the sanctity of life from conception, promoting a culture that values and supports both mother and child.

Government SpendingWelfareTaxesMinimum WageCorporate Tax

Religious Zionism

The establishment of a Jewish state in the Land of Israel, guided by religious principles and values, to fulfill divine promises and ensure the continuity of Jewish culture and tradition.

Minimum WageTaxesWelfareLGBT Adoption RightsCorporate Tax

Constitutional Monarchism

A limited monarchy, governed by a constitution, can provide stability, continuity, and a unifying national figurehead while still maintaining democratic principles.

Government SpendingMinimum WageMandatory Military ServiceTerm LimitsTaxes

Anti-Feminism

Promoting traditional gender roles and values to maintain social stability and harmony.

WelfareTaxesMinimum WageCorporate TaxMandatory Military Service

Opposing ideologies

These ideologies are least similar to Evangelicalism.

Anarcho-Communism

A society where all property is communally owned, decisions are made collectively, and no government or hierarchical structures exist.

LGBT Adoption RightsAbortionWelfareDeporting Criminal ImmigrantsTransgender Athletes

Social Justice Advocate

You believe deeply rooted systems of oppression require bold, structural change — not just individual attitude shifts.

LGBT Adoption RightsAbortionDrug PolicySingle-Payer HealthcareTransgender Athletes

Anarcho-Capitalism

Achieving a society where individual freedom is maximized through the elimination of government intervention and the promotion of voluntary exchanges within a free market system.

LGBT Adoption RightsDrug PolicyWelfareDeporting Criminal ImmigrantsGovernment Spending

Decolonialist

You believe the lasting effects of colonialism — economic, cultural, and psychological — must be actively identified and repaired.

LGBT Adoption RightsAbortionTransgender AthletesDrug PolicyGay Marriage

Socialist

You believe major industries and resources should be owned or controlled democratically to serve the common good, not private profit.

LGBT Adoption RightsAbortionTransgender AthletesSingle-Payer HealthcareDrug Policy

System Changer

You believe the fundamental structures of the current political and economic system are the root cause of injustice and must be replaced.

LGBT Adoption RightsAbortionTransgender AthletesDrug PolicyGay Marriage

How similar are your political beliefs to Evangelicalism issues? Take the political quiz to find out.