Mission in Praise, Word, and Deed: Reflections on the Past and Future of Global Mission

Listening to the Voices of Global Practitioners

In Christian mission, we cross boundaries between the people of God and the not-yet people of God, declaring "[God's] glory among the nations" (Ps 96:3). Mission begins and ends in worship. In mission, we proclaim the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. We also care for the whole person. Thus, at its core, mission intertwines praise, word, and deed.

This book represents the latest in missiological thinking. Though some contributors are scholars and even professors, most are field practitioners --evangelists, church planters, Bible translators, medical professionals, refugee workers, and community development specialists. Based on decades of faithful service, they report on what they have learned about mission. Mission in Praise, Word, and Deed addresses a wide range of critical concerns, such as informal theological education, Bible translation, business as mission, trauma care, and working on multicultural teams.

As we ponder best mission practices, it's wise to hear from global practitioners--those who have been at it for a long time. This book represents the diversity of the global church. They are men and women from Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America, and Europe who have served or presently serve in places across the world. These contributors share the conviction that the future of missions involves a growing global church and missionary workforce joining hands to complete the Great Commission amid severe opposition and disruption.

Edward L. Smither (PhD, University of Wales; PhD, University of Pretoria) serves as Professor of Intercultural Studies and History of Global Christianity and Dean of the College of Intercultural Studies at Columbia International University. Previously, he served for fourteen years in intercultural ministry in North Africa, France, and the United States. His previous books include Christian Mission: A Concise Global History and Mission in the Way of Daniel.

Jessica A. Udall (PhD, Columbia International University) is professor of Intercultural Studies at Evangelical Theological College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and adjunct professor of Intercultural Studies at Columbia International University. For more information, visit www.jessicaudall.com.