History and Theology of Evangelicalism

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/G_BATRSPC211

Course Objective

After finishing this course, the studentDemonstrates a clear understanding of the historical development of the evangelical movement from the 17th century to the present, and can articulate its key phases and turning points.Analyses past events and contemporary developments within evangelicalism in relation to broader societal and cultural transformations, particularly the rise of modernity.Engages critically with major theological debates that have shaped and reshaped evangelical theology over time, and can position these within current theological discourse.The course focuses in particular on the Historical and Systematic learning trajectory (leerlijn) of the VU.

Course Content

This course explores the evangelical movement as a dynamic historical and theological tradition. Attention is given to its early formation in the 18th and 19th centuries, shaped by revival preaching, Enlightenment influences, debates on grace, and the abolitionist cause. Key themes such as Bebbington’s Quadrilateral and the relationship between history and theology provide interpretive frameworks throughout. The course also investigates the theological developments and internal tensions of evangelicalism in the 20th century, including the rise of neo-evangelicalism, the charismatic movement, shifting views on Scripture, and the interaction between evangelical identity and broader ecclesiological and cultural contexts. Contemporary evangelicalism is examined in light of political entanglements, global expressions, theological fragmentation, and critiques related to race, gender, and power. Throughout, students engage with primary texts, influential thinkers, and current scholarship to better understand the complexity and ongoing transformation of evangelical thought and practice.

Teaching Methods

Students prepare classes by following the reading assignments. During the class meetings the contents of these reading assignments will be critically engaged. This course comprises 6 ECTS (= 168 sbu).

Method of Assessment

Students will write a critical paper of max. 2,500 words, focusing on a theme related to the evangelical movement, as discussed during the course. The paper should reflect the student’s own curiosity and critical engagement—what do I want to investigate? What theological, historical, or cultural dynamics are at play? How do the narratives of Scripture, the evangelical tradition, and my own context intersect? Additionally, students must incorporate personal reflection and include something from their own faith journey, personal narratives, or case studies to provide depth and authenticity to their analysis. Possible topics include (but are not limited to): Open Theism, Premillennial Dispensationalism, Biblical Inerrancy, Evangelicalism and Fundamentalism, Ethics, Politics, Ecclesiology, or a key figure such as Billy Graham, John Stott, Alister McGrath, René Padilla, David Gushee, Aimee Semple McPherson, or movements such as the Salvation Army. The paper counts for 100% of the final grade, and the grading will be based primarily on the following four equally weighted criteria (each 25%):Historical understanding – Demonstrates insight into the development of the evangelical movement in its historical and societal context.Systematic-theological engagement – Engages critically with key theological concepts, debates, and positions within evangelicalism.Hermeneutical reflection – Reflects on the interaction between Scripture, evangelical theology, and personal or contemporary questions.Academic quality – Clarity of structure, coherence of argument, appropriate use of sources, and strength of conclusions.Presentation: Each student will also present and discuss their paper in class. While the primary assessment will focus on the written paper, the presentation serves as a check on the student’s ability to explain, defend, and discuss their ideas in person. A bibliography is required. In addition to scholarly literature, students may also include relevant journalistic sources, opinion pieces, or online materials where appropriate. Please note: AI is to be used solely for the purpose of checking language and spelling.

Literature

Books: Thomas Kidd, Who Is an Evangelical?: The History of a Movement in Crisis (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2019), 156 pp.Additional articles will be added in the course syllabus. Every student is obligated to attend classes having prepared and ready the prescribed assignments.

Target Audience

This course is in particular designed for evangelical students and all students of religion who are interested in history, theology and practices of the evangelical faith. The course forms part of the programs Theology
- Baptist Seminary and Theology
- Evangelical-Reformed. This course is expected to be conducted as a tutorial, with an emphasis on studying and analyzing literature. Depending on the group size, there will be one or several contact sessions, and the scheduling of these sessions will be arranged directly by the course coordinator in consultation with the students. When registering, please also send an email to [email protected].

Additional Information

This course is expected to be conducted as a tutorial, with an emphasis on studying and analyzing literature. Depending on the group size, there will be one or several contact sessions, and the scheduling of these sessions will be arranged directly by the course coordinator in consultation with the students. When registering, please also send an email to [email protected].

Recommended background knowledge

General knowledge of Church History is presupposed