Thy Kingdom Come: The Independent Megachurch and American Culture

Team Members/Contributors

Scott L. Thumma Emory University, Graduate Division of Religion Contact Me

About this dissertation fellowship

Using multiple social scientific methods, this congregational study focuses on the history and dynamics of one nondenominational charismatic megachurch. The study attempts to uncover the reasons for the enormous success of the church and its appeal to a diversity of people. By tracing the historical development of the church’s theology, ministry, and institutional structures, the study focuses on the ability of a nondenominational independent congregation to adapt its message to fit an everchanging cultural milieu. Through a syncretic blending of multiple cultural traditions the senior minister attracts and motivates a wide variety of people. I argue that the message of independence inherent within the church’s “Kingdom” theology, combined with spiritual authoritarianism and expressed in emotive charismatic worship corresponds to certain powerful refrains in members’ lives. This entrepreneurial, expressivist, and individualistic vision powerfully motivates members to radical Christian commitment, personal improvement, and economic advancement. This message accommodates somewhat to contemporary values but it also critically challenges the social system. Given that a majority of members belonged originally to mainstream churches, this study also discusses the dynamics of switching to nondenominational congregations. Finally, the study will highlight the powerful potential and the possible problems inherent in a large independent congregation.

Image Title Year Type Contributor(s) Other Info
  The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory: The Megachurch in Modern American Society 1996 Dissertation Scott L. Thumma