Leading Voices from across Christian Traditions Discuss the Mission of the Church

What is the mission of the church? Every seminarian and church leader must wrestle with that question. No matter what designation a church uses to describe itself, it must also think critically about why it exists and what it should be doing. In this book, five leading voices representing a range of Christian traditions engage in an enlightening conversation as they present and compare their perspectives on the mission of the church. Each contributor offers his or her view and responds to the other four views. Contributors include Stephen B. Bevans, Darrell L. Guder, Ruth Padilla DeBorst, Edward Rommen, and Ed Stetzer. The book's format is ideal for classroom use and will also benefit pastors and church leaders.

Contents

Introduction, Craig Ott
Perspective Chapters
1. A Prophetic Dialogue Approach, Stephen B. Bevans
2. A Multicultural and Translational Approach, Darrell L. Guder
3. An Integral Transformation Approach, Ruth Padilla DeBorst
4. A Sacramental Vision Approach, Edward Rommen
5. An Evangelical Kingdom Community Approach, Ed Stetzer
Response Chapters
6. Response by Stephen B. Bevans
7. Response by Darrell L. Guder
8. Response by Ruth Padilla DeBorst
9. Response by Edward Rommen
10. Response by Ed Stetzer
Index