Christianity and Progress

A series of lectures traces the emergence of the modern idea of progress and explores its intellectual and practical consequences for Christian belief and practice. It surveys historical origins of progressive thought, contrasts static ancient and medieval outlooks with contemporary faith in improvement, and asks how religion can respond to scientific mastery, social reform, and ethical change. Subsequent talks consider how the gospel relates to social progress, outline characteristics of a progressive Christian perspective, warn of moral and spiritual dangers attendant on unchecked progress, and conclude by examining the theological implications of assimilating progress into concepts of God and ultimate meaning.