The Heart of the Gospel

Description:
The Fourfold Gospel, most often associated with Albert B. Simpson, founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance, which focuses on the doctrines of Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King, has been identified as a key contributing factor to the birth and development of the modern Pentecostal movement. Through a close observation of the doctrinal themes of select and renowned Evangelical leaders in America (A. J. Gordon of Boston, D. L. Moody of Chicago, A. T. Pierson of Philadelphia/Detroit, and A. B. Simpson of New York), this work shows that the Fourfold Gospel and, therefore, the theological source for modern Pentecostalism, rather than being a marginal movement within late nineteenth-century Evangelicalism was, instead, its very heart.

Endorsements:
""Denominations rarely begin without a compelling vision, and never merely to have another structure to maintain. Bernie Van De Walle has reminded us of the remarkably influential path of the C&MA--impelled by a missiological vision and formed in a passion for unity. While the particulars of the C&MA journey are interesting, the clear manifestation of this radical vision and passion are transforming. The Church at large would do well to learn and grow from the profound simplicity of the framework that has shaped the C&MA and many others as Christ followers.""
--Kevin W. Mannoia
Chair, Wesleyan Holiness Consortium and Chaplain, Azusa Pacific University

""A. B. Simpson's writings are important sources for reflection on Christian spirituality and theology. Theoretical distinctions he made still have currency. His writings and the story of his life have made significant contributions to the development of Global Pentecostalism and Global Holiness, and these religious movements cannot be understood without taking Simpson into account. Bernie Van de Walle has provided a truly significant analysis of the thought of Simpson in the context of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. His thoughtful work provides a reliable standard work for scholars who need to understand Simpson and his context.""
--David Bundy
Associate Provost for Library Services, Associate Professor of History
Fuller Theological Seminary


About the Contributor(s):
Bernie A. Van De Walle is Associate Professor of Theology at Ambrose University College and Seminary in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He is the author of a number of articles on both A. B. Simpson and American Evangelical theology and history.