Kingdom Lost: Unraveling the American Evangelical Movement is a compelling exploration into the heart of one of America's most polarizing and least understood communities - Evangelical Christians. In this seminal work, journalist Arthur Hawkins, a practicing Christian and the son of an evangelical pastor unveils a comprehensive and deeply troubling portrait of the American evangelical movement.
From the early roots of evangelicalism to its transformation over time, Hawkins traces the movement's arc through history, placing political and cultural inflection points within the context of church teachings and traditions. The narrative unfolds through the lens of televangelists, small-town preachers, celebrity revivalists, and everyday churchgoers, offering a nuanced perspective on a faith that has been marred by ephemeral fear, partisan subterfuge, and perpetual scandal.
For millions of conservative Christians, America is perceived as their kingdom-a nation uniquely blessed and in special covenant with God. However, Hawkins examines how this love of country has morphed into right-wing nationalist fervor, a form of idolatry that, he argues, trivializes the very essence of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.
As the story progresses through the Trump era and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawkins scrutinizes the fractures within American Christianity. He investigates the pursuit, exercise, and at times, abuse of power by conservative Christians, revealing a stark disconnect from scripture and a desperate quest for fleeting earthly influence.
"Kingdom Lost" takes readers on a journey through half-empty sanctuaries and standing-room-only convention halls, documenting the evolving landscape where loving one's enemies is labeled "woke," and owning the libs is deemed the answer to WWJD. Hawkins confronts the central question: If the American evangelical movement has deviated from glorifying God, what is its purpose?
The epilogue reflects on potential paths for the evangelical movement to rediscover its core values and regain trust in a secularizing America. Throughout the book, Hawkins weaves personal narratives, scandals, and political entanglements into a tapestry that invites readers to contemplate the past, present, and potential future of the American evangelical movement. "Kingdom Lost" is a thought-provoking and timely examination of a faith community at a crossroads, prompting readers to consider the complexities, challenges, and redemptive possibilities within the tapestry of the American evangelical movement.
