Reviews

See my book reviews on Amazon.com
See menu of all book reviews on this site

Sheler presents a good sociological analysis of the "Evangelical" movement in the US, outlining its history and characteristics.  Written in a popular but reflective and analytical style, this is a cultural perspective on an important though diverse segment of the American populaiton.

The insights and social portrait that arise from Sheler's investigations shed light on some recent trends in American politics and culture that often puzzle European observers and Americans themselves.  The author starts with his personal experience and moves into a journalistic engagement, reporting on field interviews and personal observations over a period of years.

Sheler narrates, for instance, his experience of accompanying a volunteer mission group to Guatemala, and reports on his experiences, insights and conversations with visiting and local leaders and the Mayan people they built homes for.  He tells of attending a Christian "Woodstock" event, held annually since 1979, and details conversations and encounters with various participants.

This is a sophisticated and yet personal presentation presenting a credible picture that attempts to overcome the common stereotypes.  The author's analysis enables the reader to see "evangelicals" from the inside.  He also is clear and coherent about the unique characteristics and the diversity within the movement and shows us why some notable irritating examples of the "evangelicals" have led to the popular stereotypes.

He enables us to see deeper into the diverse movement to find caring, sensitive and cooperative human beings concerned about the environment, their neighbours and the hurting poor and social injustice around the world.

Besides just being an interesting and readable story, entertaining and engaging, this book will enable the reader to better understand to 40-60 million Americans who claim to be "evangelical" Christians.

See related reviews and articles on this site:
Postmodern Challenges to a Rising Evangelicalism
Progressive Foundations for Postmodern Christianity

See this book with my review on Amazon.com
See my book reviews on Amazon.com
See menu of all book reviews on this site
See my reading lists
Many other books have review notes with the reading list entry

OBJ

Written 28 August 2009
Expanded 18 October 2009
Finalized and posted on Amazon and OJTR 28 November 2009

Orville Boyd Jenkins, EdD, PhD
Copyright © 2009 Orville Boyd Jenkins
Permission granted for free download and transmission for personal or educational use.  Other rights reserved.

filename:  shelerbelievers.html