Evangelicalism is in trouble. Surveying the modern evangelical landscape, professor Michael Svigel asks, "Why does evangelicalism appear to be spinning out of control, losing appeal to younger generations, dwindling in numbers, or selling out to pop culture to muster a crowd?" He seeks to answer this question by looking to the past—to a Retro Christianity.

Calling for a return to evangelicalism's historical and theological roots, Svigel begins by addressing some of present-day evangelicalism's problems and explores what can be done to help churches regain a healthy perspective on doctrine. He then gives practical examples of what establishing a biblical, historical, and theologically sound foundation will mean for Christians as they think through aspects of church life and worship.

As the numbers of those confused or disenchanted with evangelicalism continue to grow, Svigel's book meets a timely need and will benefit many readers with his balanced argument for preserving the evangelical faith.

Addresses the current exodus of Christians from evangelical churches and argues for a return to historical roots.

\["For Christians seeking to understand their faith's history", "Addresses evangelicalism's decline and cultural issues", "You will find clarity and strength in your beliefs"\]

RetroChristianity offers a compelling look at evangelicalism's roots and future.

Michael J. Svigel

Cover

Title

Copyright

Content

Church History Time Line

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Part One: The Case for RetroChristianity

Excursus: What Is Evangelicalism?

1. How Did It Come to This?

2. Going Retro without Going Wrong

3. What Is RetroChristianity?

Part Two: RetroOrthodoxy: Preserving the Faith for the Future

4. The FirstCanon of RetroOrthodoxy

5. The Second Canon of RetroOrthodoxy

6. The Third Canon of RetroOrthodoxy

Part Three: RetroClesiology: Beyond the Preference-Driven Church

7. Church Classic

8. The Essential Marks of a Local Church

9. The Essential Works of a Local Church

Part Four: RetroSpirituality: Living the Forgotten Faith Today

10. From "Me" to "We"

11. From "We" to "Me"

12. Where Do We Go from Here?

Suggested Resources

Notes

Back

Evangelicalism is in trouble. Surveying the modern evangelical landscape, professor Michael Svigel asks, “Why does evangelicalism appear to be spinning out of control, losing appeal to younger generations, dwindling in numbers, or selling out to pop culture to muster a crowd?” He seeks to answer this question by looking to the past—to a Retro Christianity.

Calling for a return to evangelicalism’s historical and theological roots, Svigel begins by addressing some of present-day evangelicalism’s problems and explores what can be done to help churches regain a healthy perspective on doctrine. He then gives practical examples of what establishing a biblical, historical, and theologically sound foundation will mean for Christians as they think through aspects of church life and worship.

As the numbers of those confused or disenchanted with evangelicalism continue to grow, Svigel’s book meets a timely need and will benefit many readers with his balanced argument for preserving the evangelical faith.

RetroChristianity doesn’t naively defend evangelicalism as if everything were just fine. in the author's view the history and current landscape of modern evangelicalism is in pretty bad shape and likely to get worse. However, he doesn't propose any retreat into traditionalism as a necessary or even beneficial response.

Instead he fully acknowledges the frustrating and upsetting elements of evangelicalism - though is at pains to insist that we can’t afford to simply whine about the flaws of the movement. There is a need to provide direction and to address the problems, grounding the response firmly on biblical, theological, and historical foundations.

The author also acknowledges the egocentric nature of many evangelicals’ approaches to church and spirituality. To counter the preference-driven mentality of so many churches, he urges a return to true spirituality with a more biblical, historical, and theological framework through which informed decisions regarding doctrine, practice, and worship can be effectively made. This will help, he says, wisely balance the vital elements of church, worship, ministry, and spirituality, avoiding excesses, extremes, distractions, and distortions.

In short, he believes that careful biblical, theological, and historical reflection should make us better evangelicals, not former evangelicals.

"RetroChristianity" by Michael J. Svigel examines modern evangelicalism's challenges and advocates for a return to its historical and theological roots, offering practical solutions for churches.

\["For those seeking clarity in modern evangelism", "Addresses declining appeal of contemporary evangelism", "You will strengthen your faith and church community"\]

RetroChristianity calls for a return to evangelical roots.

RetroChristianity

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RetroChristianity

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