Pietism

Pietism has often been described as a “Reformation within the Reformation” because it encompasses a variety of spiritual movements within Protestantism that sought to renew the church. The term “Pietism” was originally a derogatory name given to them by their opponents to ridicule their emphasis on piety or religious devotion. They preferred to call themselves “children of God” or “friends of truth.” Pietism was very significant in the later development of Protestantism, including the evangelical movement in Europe and the United States. The spread of Pietism was viewed with suspicion by some Lutheran theologians, especially among the Orthodox or Scholastics. Some Radical Pietists responded to this persecution by immigrating to North America and establishing their own communities. Pietism was a major influence on the most important Protestant theologian of the nineteenth century, Friedrich Schleiermacher.