Mission Perspectives

Overview 
Whether you are thinking about becoming a missionary, are passionate about promoting global mission in your church context, or want to think hard about mission theology and practice, this subject is for you.

Often Christians accept the mandate of mission without examining its theological roots. This subject helps students develop a whole-Bible mission theology.

It takes students on a tour to visit some of the pivotal movements, moments, and men and women in mission history, learning lessons and drawing inspiration from the past.

It also looks at various cultural and strategic issues for global mission today and tomorrow, including the practicalities of cross-cultural mission and the challenge of engaging local churches in God’s worldwide mission.

Digging into the scriptures, reflecting on the past, examining the present and imagining the future are all part of developing good mission thinking and practice. This fascinating subject offers an entry point, whether you’re looking for a single subject on global mission or a launching pad for further study.

Please visit the timetable by clicking here for current information on subject availability.

Subject Details

Content

1. A basic study of the biblical witness to the mission of God to humanity, including:

• God’s desire to be known; global perspective
• Abraham, Israel and the divine intention for all nations
• Teaching of Jesus: salvation to Jews and Gentiles
• The post-Easter church: obligations to all nations
• The nature of mission in the New Testament

2. An introduction to the expansion of the Christian movement, including:

• Key developments in mission history
• Pioneers in Christian mission
• The current status of the world Christian movement: statistics; problem areas; challenges

3. An introduction to the cultural factors which affect  mission today, including:

• Culture and worldview; beliefs, values and behaviour; ethnocentrism; cultural change
• Culture and communication; dynamically equivalent communication; culture shock
• Indigeneity, inculturation, contextualisation

4. A survey of strategies and issues in contemporary Christian world mission, including:

• World needs and strategies to meet them
• Strategies for evangelism and church planting among different people groups
• Urban mission and development priorities; evangelism and justice
• Pluralism; dialogue with those of other faiths

5. Mobilising local churches in support of world mission:

• Types of mission agencies; resource policies, operational structures, denominational links
• Mission education and training in local churches
• The care of missionaries: pre-departure, home assignment, permanent return
• Developing active prayer, finance, and other support activities

Study Expectations

In this subject, you can expect to be guided through a variety of weekly learning activities which are designed to develop your understanding of and skills in the themes and passages covered in the syllabus. Students should allow 8-10 hours of study time per week for this introductory subject.