THE MISSIONAL CHURCH

In November we began to explore the concept of the Missional Church. I am, therefore, providing links, with comment, to books that are of particular importance to this subject. My hope is that some of this material will be of interest to you and that you will explore this subject on your own as together we dialogue and discern.

Transforming Mission, by David Bosch

This is one of the most significant books, if not the least because of its influence on many of the major proponents of the notion of Missional Church. Bosch's writings, in particular this book, are quoted often enough that this is probably the single most important book to read. However, this comes with a caution: this is not an easy book (especially considering some of the texts I am recommending). BUT if you are interested in one of the most important theological texts (my opinion) written in the last 20 years, this is the one. Bosch examines the role of mission in the New Testament, the history of the missional movements throughout (especially) Western Europe, and a compelling argument for the future of the Church.

Exiles, by Michael Frost

Michael Frost is an immensely compelling author and speaker, and this book demonstrates why. It is a passionate, even zealous, call to stop working so hard at being good church-going folk and to start living authentically and passionately in God's world. Given his passion for his view of the church, it should not be surprising that you may find yourself disagreeing with some of what he says. It is well worth wrestling with his positions because of how honest, sincere, and engaging his faith is.

I also recommend his lectures from the 2007 Presbyterian Global Fellowship. AUDIO / VIDEO