In which a scholarly and restless cleric named Cecil Aylston journeys through various religious affiliations and wanderings before becoming the devoted yet imposing first assistant to the fervent evangelist Sharon Falconer. Meanwhile, Elmer Gantry arrives in Lincoln to join Sharon's campaign, where he first contends with the different preaching styles of Cecil and then delivers a stirring speech that sways the hearts of business men, all under the watchful, enigmatic presence of Sharon herself.