Missio Politica: The Mission of Church and Politics
Overview
Evangelical Christians in many countries shy away from politics. And yet, especially with the rise of the Pentecostal and charismatic movements, the interest and involvement in political activity is becoming a daily reality in evangelical circles. At the same time, evangelical politicians are not exempt from scandals of corruption and complaints of ineffectiveness. Are Christians unable to do better politics than others? Are they less prepared? Is even the whole political involvement of Christians under question?
In this book, Dr Johannes Reimer explores the answers to these questions by articulating a theology of the church’s political mission. The church is not a political party, but as God’s ecclesia, it has a prophetic voice and is called out of the world to take responsibility for the world.
Key Features
- Explores the nature and mission of the church
- Provides a global perspective on political engagement
- Encourages the church to be politically aware and active
Contents
- Introduction
- God and His Mission in the Old Testament
- Mission and Politics in the Old Testament
- Mission in the New Testament
- The Nature and Mission of the Church of Christ
- The Political Task of the Church
- Missio Politica—a Mission of Peace
- The Politics of the Church—Moving into the Public Square
- The Politics of the Church—A Practice Model
- Christian Community Development (CCD)
- Community Centred Church—a Question of Leadership?
- At Home as Well as Abroad
Top Highlights
“Saayman agreed with the Dutch missiologist Johannes Verkuyl that the very confession of Israel ‘Yahweh is God’ and of the church in the New Testament ‘Jesus is Lord’ ‘has always been both a statement of faith and also a political credo which leads inescapably to political choices and tasks.’” (Page 4)
“Justice and righteousness are what determine the culture of God’s chosen people and not religious rituals only” (Page 24)
“God is a God of social justice. Where he reigns, there is no room for injustice and oppression” (Page 25)
“As soon as people suggest cultural and societal change, we name their action political.” (Page 45)
Praise for the Print Edition
This book is written with passion and authenticity. Missio Politica combines deep theological scholarship and thinking from a variety of disciplines ranging from political thought to social anthropology. It is packed with practical wisdom gained from the author’s in-depth experience of social and political engagement from the grassroots level upwards. The result is a challenging and inspiring call to radical discipleship that is as academically rigorous as it is practical. It is a must-read for anyone wanting to grow in their understanding of what it means to be a faithful disciple of Jesus and servant of the King of Kings.
—Mark Galpin, PhD, Tutor and Lecturer, All Nations Christian College, Ware, UK
This book by Johannes Reimer provides in-depth theological reflection as well as practical guidelines for Christian mission that understands the transformation of communities to be the comprehensive reversal of the effects of sin over all of life and all the earth that alienated men and women from God, from self, from others and from the environment. The author makes it clear that God’s intention for his church is to be his instrument in restoring human beings to be full bearers of his image and bring back his order to creation. The task of God’s people begins in this life but will only be completed when Christ returns in glory at the end of time.
—Professor P. J. (Flip) Buys, ThD, International Director, World Reformed Fellowship
Has there ever been a time in church history when our understanding of the links between mission and political engagement has been more essential? Through this excellent book, Johannes helps unpack the clear biblical mandate that followers of Jesus can never be apolitical. Using examples from across the globe, this book moves beyond theory and gives practical examples of what it means for the church to be truly transformative in its communities. A must-read for church leaders, community development practitioners, and all Christians who are serious about mission.
—Matthew Maury, CEO, TEAR Australia
Product Details
- Title: Missio Politica: The Mission of Church and Politics
- Author: Johannes Reimer
- Publisher: Langham
- Publication Date: 2017
- Pages: 166
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Topic: Politics & Government
