Church in Mission (WEA): Foundations and Global Case Studies (Globalization of Mission)

Product DescriptionWhat does it mean today to be a church totally committed to the gospel and fully engaged in God's mission? What major religious and sociological trends in our world are affecting the role of the global church and local churches? How must we understand and be prepared to face these trends? How do we define "church" in the twenty-first century, being faithful to the Scriptures and at the same time relevant to a generation that does not believe in the institutional church anymore? What are some good models of missional churches in different regions of the world that will encourage and inspire those who long to see a church making difference in society and in the world?These are some of the issues that the book you are holding in your hands addresses. There are certainly no final answers and magical forms; rather, we present a broad and deep discussion on how the gospel should be lived out by Jesus' followers in our time and through our communities. Questions are raised and analyzed both from the perspective of a local church as well as from a global and general understanding of the Christian church. Some of our examples will focus more on local realities, others more on global challenges.ReviewThis book is a refreshing reminder of God at work in the world today. We are encouraged to reflect and develop a missional understanding of church that appreciates the roles of the church in the global West and global South, recognizing that the Christian church is the most diverse and inclusive community on earth. The contributors challenge us not to think of "church and mission" as if they were two separate aspects of church but rather the "church in Mission." Its rootedness in Scripture and reflections of "missions praxis" around the world is enriching, and encourages local church leaders to see "mission" as the work and responsibility of each church member wherever they may find themselves. Esme Bowersminister of religion at Calvary Sanctuary Full Gospel Church and secretary of the board of directors of the Lausanne Movement