Beyond Missio Dei: Contesting Mission, Rethinking Witness

Sarosh Koshy's book explores the tension between preserving the mission model of Christianity and seeking relevant paradigms for Christian engagement in the postcolonial world. It utilizes postcolonial and poststructuralist resources to teach about mission, missiology, World Christianity, and intercultural theology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 374 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Sarosh Koshy's book aims to transcend the traditional mission model of Christianity that has been associated with colonialism since the 16th century. Instead of dismissing the legacy of the mission movement, which has profoundly impacted the church and the world, Koshy seeks to appreciate its value while also striving to find relevant paradigms for Christian engagement. This book explores a profound tension within itself. On the one hand, there are those who cling to the current mission paradigm out of habit or for self-serving purposes, thereby corrupting and diminishing the original vision that liberated Christian individuals and collectives from ecclesiastical and political control. On the other hand, there are those who view mission as a mere afterthought or a means to pursue harmless or even heroic options, believing that they fulfill a supposed missional obligation.

To address this tension, Koshy employs postcolonial and poststructuralist resources in his book, teaching about mission, missiology, World Christianity, and intercultural theology. He encourages readers to critically examine the historical and cultural contexts in which the mission movement has operated and to consider alternative approaches that prioritize justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.

Koshy's book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussion about the role of Christianity in the contemporary world. It challenges readers to reevaluate the mission paradigm and to explore more holistic and inclusive ways of engaging with the world around them. By doing so, we can strive to build a more just and compassionate society that reflects the values of Jesus Christ.

Weight: 668g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030820671
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022