Book Review: The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism
Carl F. H. Henry’s The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism is a groundbreaking work that challenges evangelical Christians to engage more deeply with the moral and social issues of the world. Written in 1947, the book was a response to what Henry saw as the failure of fundamentalists to address pressing cultural and ethical concerns. Rather than retreating from society, Henry argued that Christians should actively participate in shaping it with the truth of the Gospel. His critique remains relevant today, making this a must-read for those interested in the intersection of faith and culture.
Henry’s central argument is that fundamentalism, as it was practiced in his time, had become too insular. Many fundamentalists focused primarily on personal piety and doctrinal purity while neglecting social justice, politics, and broader ethical issues. This, he believed, was a failure to live out the full implications of the Christian faith. Henry called for a more engaged evangelicalism—one that upheld biblical truth while also working for justice, righteousness, and the common good.
One of the most compelling aspects of Henry’s argument is his insistence that Christians should not abandon the public square. He warned that by withdrawing from cultural engagement, fundamentalists were allowing secular ideologies to dominate. He argued that Christianity offers profound moral and intellectual resources for addressing issues such as poverty, racial injustice, war, and political corruption. If evangelicals truly believed in the power of the Gospel, they should be willing to apply it to every area of life.
Henry’s vision was not a call for mere activism but for thoughtful, biblically grounded engagement with society. He critiqued both liberal Christianity, which he believed had abandoned theological orthodoxy, and fundamentalism, which he felt had neglected social responsibility. His approach sought to combine strong theological convictions with a deep concern for the well-being of society. He believed that evangelicals could engage the world without compromising their faith.
A key strength of The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism is Henry’s ability to anticipate many of the debates that continue to shape evangelicalism today. His call for cultural engagement foreshadowed the rise of the Religious Right, the social justice movement within evangelicalism, and the ongoing tension between faith and politics. While some of his critiques were directed specifically at mid-20th-century fundamentalism, his broader concerns remain relevant. Many Christians today continue to wrestle with how to balance doctrinal fidelity with social action.
Despite being a relatively short book, The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism is dense with insight. Henry’s writing is clear and persuasive, though some readers may find his language somewhat formal compared to contemporary Christian writers. However, his arguments are well-reasoned and supported by Scripture, making this an important theological work that rewards careful study.
For those who care about the role of Christianity in public life, Henry’s book remains an essential read. It challenges believers to move beyond a privatized faith and to recognize their responsibility to influence society for good. It serves as both a critique and a call to action—urging evangelicals to embody a faith that is both theologically sound and socially engaged.
The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism is a timeless and thought-provoking book that continues to speak to Christians wrestling with the relationship between faith and culture. Carl Henry’s insights offer both a challenge and a vision for a more engaged evangelicalism—one that remains faithful to the Gospel while addressing the pressing issues of the day. For pastors, theologians, and laypeople alike, this book is a valuable resource that encourages deeper reflection on how to live out the Christian faith in a complex and changing world.
