This is a good read: The Surprising Legacy of Biblical Fundamentalism. Fundamentalism is mocked among the “more enlightened” Christian circles, but an argument can be made that the fundamentalist movement of the early twentieth century is what laid the foundation for evangelicalism to even exist in any meaningful form right now.
The liberal and apostate denominations have done nothing to point people to saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. With every passing year, they have strayed further from the Truth of God’s Word and drawn people into the dark. The fundamentalists in various denominations have stayed true to the Word of God, even if they differ on some issues.
There are all sorts of ways to define fundamentalism, and even within these definitions, there is a lot of disagreement. Historically, fundamentalism was a biblical response to apostasy within the Christian Church, predominantly around those beliefs of the Christian faith that are central to Christianity.
This basic definition means that true, biblical fundamentalism includes Christians from different denominations, those who reject denominations, and would differ on secondary and tertiary issues of doctrine. For example, J. Gresham Machen (Presbyterian), J. I. Packer (Anglican), and J. Frank Norris (Baptist), would all be considered fundamentalists regarding their commitment to the cardinal doctrines of the Christian faith—yet all three would differ on secondary issues and even how to go about dealing with apostasy in the church.
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Where “Neo-evangelicals” wanted to find a middle common ground with liberalism, fundamentalists understood that the leaven of apostasy would spread with every compromise that they allowed into their circle of influence. Fundamentalists understood that they need to separate from unbiblical and anti-Christian accommodations that undermine the truth of Scripture and the integrity of the gospel.
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Without the response of fundamentalist Christians, much of today’s conservative evangelicalism would not exist. Although not every church, ministry, and school has remained faithful to its founding principles, their existence still stands as proof that much is owed to fundamentalism.
Read the full article: The Surprising Legacy of Biblical Fundamentalism
Kris
I agree with some parts of this article and that fundamentalism has contributed to the basis of Christianity and interpretation of scripture. Unfortunately, I have seen to many lives harmed by fundamentalism including my own because of the legalism and leaders making up their own rules and taking scripture out of context just like the Pharisees in scripture. Including other areas of abuse to individuals within the fundamentalist church and movement and other churches also. These pastors and leaders are held to a higher account.
I believe Jesus sees each of us an individual and extends more grace than fundamentalism does. I believe in the TRUTH of Jesus and scripture without a doubt. I could not go through life without HIM.
I am not sure that fundamentalism has kept Christianity afloat. Those who believe in Him, are led by the Holy Spirit, live their lives as an example of Jesus by loving others, share Christ and by giving a hand up when they are led by the Holy Spirit. Those are the ones who keep Christianity afloat.
I really don’t think many denominations are an example of the church and Christianity. In fact, I think they make it worse. Whether they claim to be biblical and are OR claim to be biblical and are not. I see the church being a poor example of Christ in today’s culture and to others for the most part.