Writing on Christian mission is too often bedevilled by theological superficiality and by a confessional gulf between Catholic and Protestant approaches. This collection of essays is the exception to the rule. It is profound in its theological thinking, inclusive in its ecumenical range, and comprehensive in its coverage of the big issues in Christian mission. This volume will be eagerly welcomed and widely used throughout theological education.
Brian Stanley This richly textured book gives both new and more experienced readers access to prophetic dialogue as a refreshing framework for missional thinking. The emphasis on humility and boldness, on listening and articulating, sits well with a culture both resistant to, and in need of, a constructive and challenging faith. The various contributors embody the approach they commend and open up positive avenues for theologians and practitioners to engage with gracious confidence in the Church's primary task of mission. If such Christians are 'local village cooks', here are some exciting ingredients for the feast we are privileged to share.
John Pritchard Mission on the Road to Emmaus is the best multi-author book I have read, moving far beyond mere scholarship to that rarest of things in our day, truly constructive theology. It is deeply rooted in the dynamics of Scripture, attentive to the voices of our world, challenging the reader to the sort of authentic discipleship necessary for humble boldness in presenting the Gospel and learning from others.
William R Burrows This is perhaps one of the most enjoyable academic books I have read in a very long while. It's a well curated collections of essays, from a range of scholars, looking at mission through the contexts of Christology, Eschatology, Ecclesiology, Soteriology, Anthropology and finally Culture. But the emphasis and lens is on the prophetic dialogue and catalyst intrinsic in each of these areas for mission to be communal, active and central. We have here a book that somehow blends the lines between academic and essentially practice based faith. These essays are incredibly easy to read and find so many points of reference into the possibility of everyday faith and mission that cannot but help missiologists and missiological churches. The only downside is that, because this book is an academic book, it comes with a high price tag that will sadly out it out of the reach of many people who would seriously gain real enjoyment and benefit from it.
Melanie Carroll
Together Magazine, July-August 2015
Fifteen authors explore this framework through a seamless set of chapters which engage Christology, ecclesiology, eschatology, soteriology, anthropology and culture. Woven throughout are thoughtful reflections on a wide variety of biblical texts, and a wholehearted commitment to listening carefully to a diverse array of voices from around the world - including voices and ideas from beyond Christianity. This book would be an excellent text in a variety of classes, particularly as a basic introduction to multiple forms of theological engagement, and is also accessible to adults with come fluency in biblical studies.
Mary Hess, Luther Seminary, Minnesota
Expository Times, Vol 127, no.6, March 2016