Transforming Conversion: Rethinking the Language and Contours of Christian Initiation

Gordon T. Smith

ISBN 10: 0801032474 / ISBN 13: 9780801032479

Published by Baker Publishing Group, 2010

About this Item

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Seller Inventory # B9780801032479

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Transforming Conversion: Rethinking the Language and Contours of Christian Initiation
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
• Publication Date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0801032474
• ISBN 13: 9780801032479
• Binding: Paperback / softback
• Condition: New
• Weight: 342 grams

About this title

Synopsis

This volume offers much-needed theological reflection on the phenomenon of conversion and transformation. Gordon Smith provides a robust evaluation that covers the broad range of thinking about conversion across Christian traditions and addresses global contexts. Smith contends that both in the church and in discussions about contemporary mission, the language of conversion inherited from revivalism is inadequate in helping to navigate the questions that shape how we do church, how we approach faith formation, how evangelism is integrated into congregational life, and how we witness to the faith in non-Christian environments. We must rethink the nature of the church in light of how people actually come to faith in Christ. After drawing on ancient and pre-revivalist wisdom on conversion, Smith delineates the contours of conversion and Christian initiation for today's church. He concludes by discussing the art of spiritual autobiography and what it means to be a congregation.

About the Author

Gordon T. Smith (PhD, Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University) is president of Ambrose University in Calgary, Alberta, and professor of systematic and spiritual theology. He has also taught at Regent College, Vancouver, and is the author of many books, including Beginning Well and A Holy Meal.