Christian mission is changing and developing rapidly as the centre of gravity of the faith shifts ever further 'south'. The practice of mission 'from everywhere to everywhere' challenges many traditional models, and new contexts raise new questions for established theologies. Evangelicals need a mission theology that engages with these challenges and contexts, while also affirming foundational truths and scriptural boundaries.
The 'Dictionary of Mission Theology' draws on the work of many scholars who are contributing to the renewal of mission thinking and practice among evangelicals. It highlights and explores the missiological implications of a wide range of Christian doctrines and theologies, and the theological dimensions of many mission themes. Contributors have been encouraged to discuss their subjects contextually, grounding their ideas and arguments in the real worlds where these have been conceived and applied. The resulting missiology both has its roots in cherished and recognized evangelical categories and interprets them in fresh and dynamic ways.
The new pattern of world Christianity is reflected in the dictionary in a majority contribution from the Majority World. Some 60% of the 160 articles are by non-Western authors, though leading Western thinkers are also well represented.
The Dictionary will be invaluable for church leaders, missionaries, students of mission and those involved in the teaching and practice of mission worldwide, and will be accessible to a non-specialist readership. It is intended for every context in which mission is learnt and done, and to set a new benchmark for evangelical mission theology.