Social Gospel

Core Idea:

The movement's central belief was that Christians have a duty to challenge and reform the structures of society that cause human suffering, rather than focusing solely on individual salvation.

Motivation

It emerged in response to the widespread poverty, crime, and inequality that arose from industrialization and the growth of cities.

Key Figures

Charles Sheldon and Walter Rauschenbusch.

Influential Works

Charles Sheldon's 1896 novel, In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do?, became a bestseller. It popularized the question "What Would Jesus Do?" as a moral guide for confronting societal problems.

Key Concepts

Walter Rauschenbusch revived Jesus's phrase "the Kingdom of God," arguing it applied to all aspects of life and that Christians should work to enact this kingdom on Earth by improving society.

Goals

Advocates encouraged Christians to engage with social issues, challenge unjust economic and political systems, and help the less fortunate. Some even promoted a form of Christian socialism.

Limitations

The movement had significant blind spots, as most of its leaders ignored the struggles of women and did not support women's suffrage. They were also largely silent on the oppression of African Americans, Native Americans, and other minority groups.

Influence

The Social Gospel fueled the Progressive Era's reform efforts and had a lasting impact on American life, inspiring later activists like Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision of a "beloved community."