New paradigms for religion, multiple religious belonging, and insider movements

Abstract

The concept of “religion” and the idea of “world religions” are being critically reconsidered in the field of religious studies. Related questioning in the field of missiology has produced the concepts of “multiple religious belonging” and “insider movements.” The crisis in religious studies is outlined and new paradigms are supported. Traditional notions of conversion as change of religion are no longer relevant when traditional conceptions of world religions are no longer in vogue. Multiple religious belonging and insider movements are two possible responses from the missiological world. Legal aspects of religious identity in many countries suggest that attempts at a multiple religious belonging will necessarily result in an insider-movements approach since one identity is often a legal necessity.