Although I read Robert Anderson's "Visions of the Disinherited" (1992) a number of years ago much of what he penned about American Pentecostalism has stayed with me. Hoping to order additional copies from Amazon.com, I am surprised to discover that it remains out of print!
Andersons' is a fascinating and erudite study about the birth, growth, struggles, and influence of the American Pentecostal movement. He begins with a brief history of the charismatic movement. He witnesses that the American Holiness movement, originally authored and then cast aside by Methodism, began to merge with charisma by the 19th century's conclusion. Pentecostalism, born in 1901, found itself at the apex of this convergence.
From the beginning, Anderson understands Pentecostals to be a reactionary holiness group from the lowest economic classes who gain strength during the 20th century's "economic dislocation". Through its 100-year history it has moved from social discontent to conservative conformity.
Anderson writes a compelling and interesting history. He speaks to Pentecostals' 312 Azusa Street founding, Parham's "steps of grace", England's Keswick Movement, Darby's dispensations, the 1916 Statement of Faith, the tongues only controversy, the psychology of Pentecostals' hostility, and much more. Anderson also convincingly shows that Pentecostals (as heirs of the holiness movement) are not fundamentalists (page 147). (Pentecostals have historically seen non-Pentecostals as "unregenerate".)
Through their history Pentecostals have taken to task Free Masonry, the YMCA, the League of Nations, the NRA, Roman Catholicism, and President Franklin Roosevelt to name only a few. As holiness conservative Pentecostals refute modern populism's progressive liberal movement while feeling a kinship with ostracized Jews (pages 218-25).
Andersons' scholarship includes 50 pages of endnotes and 35 pages of bibliography. Various charts assist Anderson in demonstrating his persuasive conclusions. This 334-page paperback is destined to become a classic for researchers of the world's largest Christian Protestant denomination.
This book is very recommendable to all who are curious about Pentecostalism, students of American religion, and denominational teachers. Its used book price is worth its purchase. One hopes that some group will soon reprint it!
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