The Oxford Handbook of Mission Studies

The Oxford Handbook of Mission Studies provides a comprehensive overview of more than a century of scholarship in mission studies, covering theology, history, methodology, and engagement with cultures, religions, and societies worldwide. It highlights current trends and suggests future developments, drawing from recent key statements on mission from various Christian sources and academic works. The Handbook reflects the voices of both receivers and protagonists of mission and emphasizes the missional dimensions of Christianity in a multicultural world, including its agendas, growth, outreach, role in public life, impact on cultures, relevance for development, and approaches to other communities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Oxford Handbook of Mission Studies stands as a monumental compilation of over a century of scholarly exploration into the theology, history, and methodology of spreading the Christian faith and engaging Christians with diverse cultures, religions, and societies across the globe. Comprising an extensive collection of over 40 articles authored by esteemed experts hailing from various disciplinary and ecclesial backgrounds, this handbook spans across all continents. It not only provides a comprehensive overview of the key approaches and issues within the field of mission studies but also highlights emerging trends and offers insightful predictions for the future.

The resurgence of interest in mission studies during this century has been fueled by significant statements on mission issued by ecumenical, evangelical, Catholic, and Orthodox sources, as well as a proliferation of academic works dedicated to the topic. Western church leaders have embraced insights gained from foreign missions, such as inculturation, liberation, interfaith collaboration, and power encounters, to address the challenges of multicultural societies. At the same time, there are emerging initiatives in mission from the Majority World, where the majority of Christians reside, fostering a reciprocal exchange of mission efforts that transcend geographical boundaries.

The Handbook seeks to encompass the perspectives of both the recipients and the agents of mission, thereby raising awareness of emerging movements. In a context of increasing recognition of religions more broadly, this work delves into the missional dimensions of the world's largest religion, examining its agendas, growth, outreach, role in public life, impact on cultures, relevance for development, and its approaches to other communities. By undertaking a comprehensive analysis of these aspects, the Handbook contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of mission and its profound implications for our global interconnectedness.

Weight: 1450g
Dimension: 257 x 181 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198831723