Call to Mission and Perceptions of Proselytism

Proselytism remains one of the most divisive issues in global Christianity, jeopardizing many ecumenical initiatives and projects. Almost all traditions accuse others of proselytism, but none readily confess to it, as one tradition's mission and evangelism is another's proselytism. This work brings together, for the first time, significant formal statements from Christian bodies and churches alongside articles from leading commentators in this hotly contested issue. It gives clergy, academics, and students a vital resource in understanding the perspectives of different traditions, and therefore the opportunity to study and understand viewpoints and opinions from competing perspectives. The volume originates in a process of work commissioned by the World Pentecostal Fellowship, the World Council of Churches, the World Evangelical Alliance, and the Roman Catholic Church, under the auspices of the Global Christian Forum. We discovered that there are no easy answers that resolve the tensions and debates about proselytism, but through listening and understanding different voices, new opportunities for establishing constructive relationships can and do emerge.

John Baxter-Brown is a peripatetic lecturer and teacher, as well as a consultant and carpenter. Previously he has led mission organizations in the UK, and worked for several global Christian organizations including the World Council of Churches and the World Evangelical Alliance. His primary vocation is that of an evangelist, but he is a committed ecumenist and theologian. His research and writing interests include children and young people in mission, and the theology and practice of evangelism. He has taught in numerous colleges and universities in the UK and elsewhere.