Rise Of Network Christianity, Updated Edition: How Independent Leaders Are Changing The Religious Landscape

Why, when traditionally organized religious groups are seeing declining membership and participation, are networks of independent churches growing so explosively? Drawing on in-depth interviews with leaders and participants, The Rise of Network Christianity explains the social forces behind the fastest-growing form of Christianity in the U.S., which Brad Christerson and Richard Flory have labeled "Independent Network Charismatic." This form of Christianity emphasizes aggressive engagement with the supernatural-including healing, direct prophecies from God, engaging in "spiritual warfare" against demonic spirits--and social transformation.

This new edition includes a new preface that highlights the success of Independent Network Charismatic (INC) Christianity since the first edition of the book (2017).

Brad Christerson is Professor of Sociology at Biola University.

Richard Flory is executive director of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture at the University of Southern California.