ABSTRACT

This essay introduces a growing cross-section of Christianity in the Western world today that is oftentimes overlooked in contemporary research. Warner provides a critical and constructive analysis of mega-churches in the context of an increasingly secular Western world. Her careful presentation of these churches draws upon both the social sciences and theological inquiry. She addresses the positive dimensions of mega-churches while also analyzing the problematic issues. Warner identifies some of the driving causes behind the growth of mega-churches and sketches out specific challenges with regard to their future.