The completely revised second edition further explores one of the most successful of America's indigenous religious groups. Despite this, the Adventist church has remained largely invisible. Seeking a Sanctuary casts light on this marginal religion through its socio-historical context and discusses several Adventist figures that shaped the perception of this Christian sect.
The most informed study of Adventism. -Harold Bloom
I recommend to clergy that they read Seeking a Sanctuary.... you will be more attuned to the sociological trends that drive Seventh-day Adventism. -
A provocative and penetrating account of a complicated and remarkably little-known movement. -Eileen Barker, Sociological Analysis
The most comprehensive review and insightful analysis in print of the sociology, history, and culture of the Seventh-Day Adventist church. -Church History
Make no mistake. For both its breadth and depth, this is the best study of Seventh-Day Adventism that has ever been written. -Jonathan M. Butler
We do not often pause to point to a denominational history, but when one this good comes along, we pause. -Martin E. Marty
The first edition of this book was one of the few must reads for academics interested in the Seventh-day Adventists.... The new edition expands several features of the first: it places more emphasis on regional variations, offshoot groups, and ethnic diversity. Bull (Oxford) and Lockhart (London-based journalist) situate Adventist history in the larger context of American history and, just as importantly, trace the evolution of Adventist doctrine. Recognizing that Adventists form their own subculture, they also provide sociological analysis. This book gives full attention to internal theological conflicts of recent decades. Finally, Seeking a Sanctuary is well written and comprehensive. Any library collecting material on American history or religion should have it.... Essential. -Choice
A masterpiece. It is by far the best book on Adventism that has ever appeared. -Ronald L. Numbers
Malcolm Bull teaches at Oxford University.
Keith Lockhart is a London-based journalist
Contents<\\>
Acknowledgments
Prologue
Introduction: Public Images
Part 1. Adventist Theology
1. Authority
2. Identity
3. The End of the World
4. The Divine Realm
5. The Human Condition
6. The Development of Adventist Theology
Part 2. The Adventist Experience and the American Dream
7. The Structure of Society
8. The Patterns of Growth
9. The Science of Happiness
10. The Politics of Liberty
11. The Ethics of Schism
12. The Art of Expression
13. Adventism and America
Part 3. Adventist Subculture
14. Gender
15. Race
16. Ministry
17. Medicine
18. Education
19. The Self-Supporting Movement
Conclusion: The Revolving Door
Epilogue
List of Abbreviations
Notes
Bibliographical Note
Web Guide
Index