MT563/663: Mission Theology in Anabaptist Perspective (4 units)

Wilbert R. Shenk, Senior Professor of Mission History and Contemporary Culture
Summer 2008 Pasadena

DESCRIPTION:

The modern mission movement emerged around the turn of the 19^th century in response to the continuing evangelical awakening. Missions were viewed as a prime expression of “experimental religion” espoused by Pietism and Evangelicalism that resulted in an emphasis on activism. An adequate theological basis for mission was developed in the 20^th century, primarily since 1945. But missing from this development has been attention to the relationship between a theological-ecclesiological tradition and mission theology. This course will probe the Anabaptist tradition in terms of its missional significance. Appropriate comparisons with other traditions in relation to significant themes will be made.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Familiarity with the main varieties of mission theology.
2. An in-depth knowledge of the missiological implications of the Anabaptist tradition.
3. Ability to interrogate a theological tradition in terms of its missional significance.

COURSE FORMAT:

The course will be offered as a two-week intensive for 4 hours daily. A series of themes will be explored starting with an introductory lecture (30 minutes) followed by 45 minutes of class discussion.

REQUIRED READING:If the student has already read a book, meet the requirement by reading other books from the Required Reading list or from Recommended Books (in syllabus).

1. Stephen B. Bevans and Roger P. Schroeder. Constants in Context: A Theology of Mission for Today. Orbis, 2004.
2. David J. Bosch. Transforming Mission: Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission. Orbis, 1991.
3. J. Andrew Kirk. What Is Mission? Fortress, 2000.
4. J. Krabill, W. Sawatsky, and C. Van Engen, eds. Evangelical, Ecumenical, and Anabaptist Missiologies in Conversation. Orbis, 2006.
5. Wilbert R. Shenk, ed. Anabaptism and Mission. [Herald] Repr. Wipf & Stock, 1984.
6. Wilbert R. Shenk, ed. The Transfiguration of Mission. [Herald] Repr.Wipf & Stock, 1993.
7. C. Arnold Snyder. Following in the Footsteps of Christ. Orbis, 2004.
8. Bryan Stone. Evangelism After Christendom: The Theology and Practice of Christian Witness. Brazos, 2007.
9. Articles in journals including Mission Focus: Annual Review, Missiology, and International Bulletin of Missionary Research will be assigned.

ASSIGNMENTS

1. Read 1,500 pages in required books and articles; keep reading log (instructions in syllabus).
2. One 1,500-word critique of a journal article. The critique will be presented in class as part of class discussion and submitted to professor.
3. Course paper of 4,000 words.

PREREQUISITE: None.

FINAL EXAM: No.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Elective.

Note: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design, but is subject to modification. Last Date Edited: 12 March 2008