Fundamentalism is a movement within Christianity that emphasizes a literal interpretation of the Bible, adherence to traditional Christian beliefs, and opposition to modernist theology and secular influences. Originating in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fundamentalism arose as a reaction to theological liberalism, higher biblical criticism, and the increasing secularization of society. Fundamentalists hold to core doctrines, often referred to as the “fundamentals” of the faith, which they consider essential to orthodox Christianity.

Historical Context

Origins of Fundamentalism

The origins of Christian fundamentalism can be traced to the late 19th century, during a period of significant intellectual and cultural change. Several key factors contributed to the rise of the movement:

• Theological Liberalism: Theological liberalism, which emerged in the 19th century, sought to reinterpret traditional Christian doctrines in light of modern science, philosophy, and historical criticism. This approach often questioned the inerrancy of the Bible, the divinity of Christ, and other core doctrines.
  • Higher Criticism: Higher biblical criticism, which involved the critical analysis of biblical texts to understand their origins and development, led many to question the historical accuracy and divine inspiration of the Scriptures.
• Darwinian Evolution: The publication of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species (1859) introduced the theory of evolution, challenging traditional Christian views on creation and humanity’s origins.
  • Genesis 1:1 (NIV):
    

    “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

    Fundamentalists saw Darwinian evolution as a direct challenge to the biblical account of creation and sought to defend a literal interpretation of Genesis.

• Social and Cultural Changes: The rapid social and cultural changes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including urbanization, industrialization, and increased immigration, led to a sense of cultural upheaval and a perceived need to defend traditional values.

The Fundamentals: A Testimony to the Truth

In response to these challenges, a series of essays titled The Fundamentals: A Testimony to the Truth was published between 1910 and 1915. Funded by wealthy businessmen Lyman Stewart and Milton Stewart, these essays outlined the core beliefs that fundamentalists considered essential to Christian faith.

• Key Doctrines: The essays emphasized several key doctrines, which became known as the “fundamentals” of the faith:
  1. The Inerrancy of Scripture: The belief that the Bible is without error in all its teachings.
     • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV):
       

       “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

  2. The Virgin Birth and Deity of Christ: The belief that Jesus Christ was born of a virgin and is fully divine.
     • Isaiah 7:14 (NIV):
       

       “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

  3. The Substitutionary Atonement of Christ: The belief that Jesus’ death on the cross was a substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of humanity.
     • 1 Peter 2:24 (NIV):
       

       “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”

  4. The Bodily Resurrection of Christ: The belief that Jesus rose bodily from the dead.
     • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NIV):
       

       “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”

  5. The Authenticity of Miracles: The belief that the miracles recorded in the Bible are historical events that demonstrate God’s power.
     • John 20:30-31 (NIV):
       

       “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”

Early 20th Century Developments

Fundamentalism gained momentum in the early 20th century through a series of conferences, publications, and the establishment of new institutions.

• Niagara Bible Conference: The Niagara Bible Conference (1878-1897) was a series of annual meetings that brought together conservative evangelical leaders to discuss and promote fundamentalist beliefs. The conference affirmed the inerrancy of Scripture, the deity of Christ, and other core doctrines.
• World’s Christian Fundamentals Association: Founded in 1919 by William Bell Riley, the World’s Christian Fundamentals Association aimed to promote fundamentalist doctrine and oppose modernist theology. The association organized conferences, published literature, and supported fundamentalist causes.
• Scopes Trial (1925): The Scopes Trial, also known as the “Monkey Trial,” was a pivotal moment in the history of fundamentalism. John Scopes, a high school teacher in Tennessee, was put on trial for teaching evolution, in violation of state law. The trial pitted fundamentalists, represented by William Jennings Bryan, against modernists, represented by Clarence Darrow. The trial brought national attention to the debate between fundamentalism and modernism.
  • Impact of the Scopes Trial: Although Scopes was found guilty, the trial exposed fundamentalism to ridicule and criticism in the media. Nevertheless, it solidified the commitment of many fundamentalists to oppose modernist influences in education and public life.

Mid-20th Century to Present

In the mid-20th century, fundamentalism experienced both decline and resurgence. While some fundamentalist groups became more insular, others engaged more actively in public life.

• Separation and Insularity: In response to cultural and theological challenges, many fundamentalist groups adopted a stance of separation from mainstream society and from other Christian groups perceived as compromising biblical truth.
  • Ecclesiastical Separation: Fundamentalists often practiced ecclesiastical separation, refusing to cooperate with denominations or organizations they viewed as liberal or apostate.
• Rise of Evangelicalism: In the mid-20th century, a movement known as neo-evangelicalism emerged, seeking to engage more positively with culture and to promote a more intellectually rigorous approach to Christianity. While sharing many core beliefs with fundamentalism, evangelicals often sought greater cultural engagement and cooperation with other Christian groups.
  • Billy Graham: Evangelist Billy Graham exemplified the neo-evangelical approach, combining a commitment to orthodox Christian doctrine with a willingness to engage with broader society and to cooperate with various Christian denominations.
• Religious Right: In the late 20th century, fundamentalists became increasingly involved in political activism, particularly through the rise of the Religious Right. Leaders like Jerry Falwell and organizations like the Moral Majority sought to influence public policy in accordance with conservative Christian values.
  • Moral Majority: Founded in 1979 by Jerry Falwell, the Moral Majority mobilized conservative Christians to engage in political activism, advocating for issues such as opposition to abortion, support for traditional family values, and religious freedom.

Theological Significance

Literal Interpretation of Scripture

One of the hallmarks of fundamentalism is its commitment to a literal interpretation of the Bible. Fundamentalists believe that Scripture is inerrant and should be understood in its plain, straightforward meaning.

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV):
  

  “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

  This passage underscores the fundamentalist view of Scripture as divinely inspired and authoritative for all aspects of life and faith.

Defense of Core Doctrines

Fundamentalism is characterized by a strong emphasis on defending core Christian doctrines, often referred to as the “fundamentals” of the faith.

• The Deity of Christ: Fundamentalists affirm the full divinity of Jesus Christ, viewing it as a non-negotiable aspect of orthodox Christianity.
  • John 1:1 (NIV):
    

    “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

    This verse highlights the fundamentalist commitment to the belief in Jesus’ divinity.

• The Virgin Birth: Fundamentalists uphold the virgin birth of Christ as a miraculous event that underscores His divine nature.
  • Matthew 1:23 (NIV):
    

    “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).”

    This passage affirms the virgin birth, a core belief in fundamentalist theology.

Opposition to Modernism

Fundamentalism emerged as a reaction against modernist theology and secular influences that sought to reinterpret or undermine traditional Christian beliefs.

• Defense Against Liberalism: Fundamentalists strongly oppose theological liberalism, which they view as a departure from biblical truth and an accommodation to secular culture.
  • Jude 1:3 (NIV):
    

    “Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.”

    This verse encapsulates the fundamentalist commitment to defending the faith against perceived threats.

Eschatology and the Second Coming

Many fundamentalists hold to a premillennial, dispensational view of eschatology, which emphasizes the imminent return of Christ and the literal fulfillment of biblical prophecy.

• Premillennialism: Fundamentalists often believe in a literal, future millennium—a 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth following His second coming.
  • Revelation 20:1-4 (NIV):
    

    “And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time.”

    This passage is central to premillennial eschatology, a common belief among fundamentalists.

• Imminence of Christ’s Return: Fundamentalists often emphasize the imminence of Christ’s return, encouraging believers to live in a state of readiness.
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV):
    

    “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

    This passage reflects the fundamentalist expectation of Christ’s imminent return.

Practical Implications for Worship and Life

Personal Holiness and Separation

Fundamentalists emphasize personal holiness and often practice separation from worldly influences and from other Christian groups perceived as compromising biblical truth.

• Holiness: Fundamentalists often emphasize living a life of personal holiness, avoiding behaviors and practices considered sinful or worldly.
  • 1 Peter 1:15-16 (NIV):
    

    “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'”

    This verse underscores the call to holiness that is central to fundamentalist practice.

• Ecclesiastical Separation: Fundamentalists often practice ecclesiastical separation, refraining from cooperation with denominations or organizations that they view as doctrinally unsound or spiritually compromised.
  • 2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV):
    

    “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”

    This passage is often cited in support of the fundamentalist practice of separation from those who do not share their doctrinal convictions.

Evangelism and Missions

Fundamentalists place a strong emphasis on evangelism and missions, viewing the proclamation of the Gospel as a central duty of the Church.

• Great Commission: Fundamentalists are committed to fulfilling the Great Commission by spreading the Gospel and making disciples of all nations.
  • Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV):
    

    “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

    This passage serves as the foundation for the fundamentalist emphasis on evangelism and missions.

• Missionary Activity: Many fundamentalist churches and organizations are heavily involved in missionary activity, both domestically and internationally, seeking to bring the message of salvation to all people.
  • Romans 10:14-15 (NIV):
    

    “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”

    This passage highlights the importance of preaching the Gospel, a core aspect of fundamentalist mission work.

Education and Bible Study

Fundamentalists place a high value on Bible study and education, often establishing their own schools, colleges, and seminaries to provide instruction in a biblical worldview.

• Bible Study: Fundamentalists emphasize the importance of regular Bible study as a means of growing in faith and understanding God’s will.
  • Psalm 119:105 (NIV):
    

    “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

    This verse reflects the centrality of Scripture in the life of a fundamentalist believer.

• Christian Education: Many fundamentalist churches and organizations have established their own educational institutions to provide instruction that aligns with their theological convictions and to protect students from secular influences.
  • Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV):
    

    “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

    This passage underscores the importance of teaching children the ways of the Lord, a key motivation for the establishment of fundamentalist educational institutions.

Broader Thematic Connections

The Authority of Scripture

The authority of Scripture is a central theme in fundamentalism, which upholds the Bible as the ultimate authority for faith and practice.

• Sola Scriptura: Fundamentalists adhere to the principle of sola scriptura (Scripture alone), believing that the Bible is the final authority on all matters of faith and conduct.
  • Psalm 119:89 (NIV):
    

    “Your word, LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.”

    This verse reflects the fundamentalist belief in the enduring authority of Scripture.

The Defense of Orthodox Christianity

Fundamentalism is closely associated with the defense of orthodox Christian beliefs against perceived threats from modernism, liberalism, and secularism.

• Contending for the Faith: Fundamentalists see themselves as defenders of the true faith, called to stand firm against doctrinal error and to uphold the historic teachings of Christianity.
  • 1 Timothy 6:20 (NIV):
    

    “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge.”

    This verse captures the fundamentalist commitment to guarding the truth of the faith.

The Role of the Church in Society

Fundamentalists have often taken an active role in shaping society according to biblical principles, particularly through political activism and cultural engagement.

• Cultural Engagement: While some fundamentalists have adopted a stance of separation from the broader culture, others have sought to influence society through political activism, education, and media.
  • Matthew 5:13-14 (NIV):
    

    “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”

    This passage reflects the fundamentalist belief in the Church’s responsibility to be a moral and spiritual influence in society.

Legacy and Influence in Christian Doctrine

Fundamentalism has had a significant impact on the development of Christian doctrine and practice, particularly in the areas of biblical inerrancy, eschatology, and the defense of orthodox beliefs. While it has often been criticized for its perceived rigidity and separatism, fundamentalism has also played a crucial role in preserving traditional Christian teachings in the face of modern challenges.

Conservative Reflection on Fundamentalism

From a conservative theological perspective, fundamentalism is often viewed as a necessary and valuable movement that has upheld the authority of Scripture and defended essential Christian doctrines. Conservatives may appreciate the fundamentalist commitment to biblical truth and the clear articulation of core beliefs, while also recognizing the need for graciousness and engagement with broader society.

Final Thoughts on God’s Love and Jesus

At its heart, fundamentalism is motivated by a deep love for God and a desire to remain faithful to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Despite its emphasis on doctrinal precision and defense against error, fundamentalism ultimately seeks to honor God and to proclaim the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

• John 14:6 (NIV):
  

  “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

This verse encapsulates the central message of fundamentalism: the exclusive and saving truth of Jesus Christ, which must be upheld, defended, and proclaimed in a world that often rejects or distorts it. Fundamentalism, with all its strengths and challenges, represents a commitment to following Christ faithfully and to standing firm in the truth of God’s Word.