The Rise of Network Christianity
How Independent Leaders Are Changing the Religious Landscape
Brad Christerson and Richard Flory
Reviews and Awards
"This is an important book because it illustrates very well what some sociologists have argued for some time: globalization does not mean the end of religion but rather globalization introduces new forms including networked religion."--Michael Wilkinson, Pneuma
"This book is an important introduction to a form of Christianity you've likely never heard of - but need to And while the publication date of this book (March 2017) limited the opportunity to draw parallels with Trumpism, the volume offers insights into a religious mindset and posture that could partly explain the rise of a populism eagerly awaiting a strongman savior."--James K. A. Smith, Los Angeles Review of Books
"Well-researched and well-executed...Christerson and Flory have offered us a valuable piece of the overall puzzle depicting changes in the organization of Christianity."--Christopher P. Scheitle, Sociology of Religion
"The authors' aims are clearly defined and unpacked throughout the book. They substantiate their claim that [Independent Network Charismatic] Christianity is a rapidly growing sub-group in neo-Charismatic Christianity and argue that it will influence mainstream Christian practices in years to come. Their discussion of networks in the religious economy is useful in understanding the influence of INC Christianity in the changing religious landscape of America."--Shaun Joynt, Reading Religion
"American Christianity continues to morph into new forms as the world around it changes at an increasing pace. Christerson and Flory's analysis of 'Network Christianity' offers a fascinating window into a new wave movement in entrepreneurial Protestantism. Important reading for understanding developing trends in contemporary religion." --Christian Smith, Director, Center for the Study of Religion and Society, University of Notre Dame
"A revealing introduction to a new generation of Charismatics. Relying on informal networks of cooperation and introducing innovations in outreach and fundraising, these rapidly growing churches are redefining how churches are organized. Christerson and Flory offer a detailed and insightful review of how these groups operate and a candid assessment of their prospects for the future."--Roger Finke, Distinguished Professor of Sociology, Religious Studies, and International Affairs, The Pennsylvania State University
"Drilling deeper than statistics showing worldwide growth in Pentecostal or charismatic Christianity, Christerson and Flory insightfully unpack features of its thriving institutions. New forms of institutional authority, avoidance of routinization, and distinctive financial models motivate revised understandings of religious congregations and their lifecycles. By situating religious innovation within broader social changes, including globalization, the digital revolution, and declining bureaucracies, the authors significantly advance theories of the trajectories of contemporary religious institutions."--Lisa D. Pearce, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
