Brief introductions to Anglican theology: Christian mission

Abstract

This essay explores changing understandings of Anglican mission from the nineteenth century to the present. Three periods are identified. First, when mission was practiced “over there” (in the period before World War II), then when mission was understood in terms of mutuality (in the postwar era), and finally when mission was understood as being everywhere (from the end of the Cold War to the present). The essay pays attention to shifting theological rationales for mission and demonstrates how ecclesiology and eschatology are critical themes for Anglicans in relation to mission. The essay concludes with suggestions for Anglican mission theology and how ecclesiological and eschatological emphases can be combined in a mutually enriching fashion.