Within My Heart

"Michael Van Horn graciously but forcefully identifies parallels between assumptions embedded in evangelical spirituality and early modernity's subjective turn. His readings of modern philosophical and theological figures illuminate cultural influences upon the evangelical mindset. His rehabilitation of Kierkegaard manifests why evangelicals have so often misunderstood that figure, perhaps in a strange kind of sibling rivalry. Van Horn also weaves in compelling narrative glimpses, reminding us that such ideas affect the spiritual lives of real people."

--Daniel J. Treier, Blanchard Professor of Theology, Wheaton College Graduate School



"In this fine study of the sources of the modern faith experience in American Evangelicalism, Van Horn reveals a phenomenon built every bit as much on its appropriation of the Enlightenment 'turn to the self' as its claim to be founded on historic orthodoxy. Anyone wishing to truly understand modern American Evangelicalism would do well to have this well-researched and exceptionally readable volume in their library."

--Jeffrey A. Wilcox, PhD, Bethel University (Tennessee)



"Tracing the roots of Anglo-American evangelicalism to--of all things--the Enlightenment, Van Horn deftly shows us how so many modern Christians came to love the religion of the heart, both in its thoughtful and in its vacuous forms. Fascinating! And wonderfully articulate."

--Cornelius Plantinga Jr., Senior Research Fellow, Calvin College



"Van Horn has produced here a penetrating and compelling account of a common denominator in modern Evangelicalism. His breadth is impressive, encompassing primary philosophy, theology, contemporary culture, literary and film texts. His accessible and readable style and his love and care for the topic and material is infectious. The reader will be both enlightened and edified. This tome deserves a place alongside the standard works on the development of modern Evangelicalism (and Protestantism) against the backdrop of the Enlightenment."

--Mark Bowald, General Editor, Christian Scholar's Review; Adjunct Professor of Theology, Wycliffe College