Summary Matthias Becker skilfully guides his readers through the copious source material from classical antiquity and the New Testament, delineating a well-founded picture of ancient patterns of thought and rendering valuable service to contemporary debates on sexual ethics. In three sections he presents 1) the plurality of the Roman Empire with its diverse views of marriage, the family and sexuality; 2) the arguments of the authors of the New Testament for the three recognised ideal life forms (marriage, family and celibacy) and 3) hermeneutical impulses for ethical reflection in the present. Becker’s study solidly anchors current attempts to base genuine Christian life models in history and in the process exposes myths which distort the current debate on sexual ethics.

Summary This article focusses on the Statement published by the fourth Lausanne congress on world evangelisation that took place in September 2024 in Seoul. Written by a sympathetic observer of the Lausanne Committee of World Evangelisation and the Lausanne movement, it presents the background, the making and the content of this statement. It pays special attention to the way in which the statement takes position in the ongoing discussions in the Evangelical world – among theologians, church leaders and mission practitioners – about the theology of mission and about the communication of the Gospel in the different contexts of today’s world. In the area of mission theology the article considers the emphasis on the Great Commission as the basis and content of mission, the double priority of evangelisation and discipleship, and the introduction of a new mission model or paradigm of ‘presence, proclamation and practice’. With respect of the practice of evangelisation, the article firstly discusses the emphasis on the vital role of the local church in discipleship formation as well as the accountability of mission workers; and secondly the direct link between the discipleship of those who communicate the gospel and their way of life on a day-to-day basis, which leads the statement to take a clear position on a number of ethical issues, notably sexuality, gender, marriage and family. As the author presents and comments on these elements, he formulates some questions and critical remarks.

Summary This book explores women’s contributions to the spread and preservation of global Christianity. Structured in three parts, it combines historical, theological and sociological insights, highlighting women’s leadership across traditions and continents. Drawing on quantitative data and using vivid narratives, Zurlo underscores women’s resilience amidst challenges such as gender-based violence and inequality. This interdisciplinary work not only enriches the study of world Christianity but also calls for recognition of women’s contributions to its past, present and future.

Summary This article investigates the role of the apostle Peter in early Christianity as it is presented in Luke–Acts. To this end we offer a narrative analysis of Luke–Acts with a special focus on social interaction. We make use of social network analysis (SNA), a methodology which is briefly explained at the outset. The question of Peter’s role often focuses on the interpretation of specific passages such as Matthew 16:17–19. We will show that paying attention to Peter’s social network with the help of SNA helps us to analyse and indeed reconsider Peter’s role in the early Christian network. We conclude that he was not merely a leader, a person with absolute authority over decisions. Rather, Luke–Acts shows us Peter as a man who sought relationships with people and with God, and who mediated between different perspectives.

Summary Holly Carey examines the role of women as disciples in the New Testament, arguing that they exemplify true discipleship through faithfulness and action. She explores the Gospels and Acts, demonstrating that women consistently model commitment to Jesus, often in contrast to the failures of the Twelve. Using historical, social and narrative-critical approaches, she reveals how these women actively shaped early Christian communities. While highlighting key strengths, the review also critiques aspects of her comparative analysis. This work is essential for biblical scholars, pastors and anyone interested in reexamining the role of women in Christian discipleship.

Summary As a returning missionary, Lesslie Newbigin found that his homeland in the West had become more resistant to the gospel than the culture he had left behind. To address the issues this raised, Newbigin developed his missionary encounter with Western culture. His project can be understood to be a unique formulation, but it does contain methodological and epistemological weaknesses where Newbigin has been understood to articulate a form of fideism. This article argues that these shortcomings can be addressed by the intellectual structure of Alister McGrath’s scientific theology. Methodologically, McGrath offers an approach that affirms key elements of Newbigin’s approach, namely, a fiduciary approach to knowledge and the missiological significance of Christian doctrine, especially that of the Trinity as public truth. McGrath’s work also provides a critical realist epistemology that suits the requirements of Newbigin’s project and addresses the issue of Newbigin’s perceived fideism. It will be argued that Newbigin’s and McGrath’s projects are mutually supportive.

Summary Heinrich Coerper (1863–1936) is known as the founding director of the Liebenzeller Mission, the German branch of the China Inland Mission. Less well-known is the prominent role he played in the German Pietism of his day due to his connections with leading representatives of the holiness, healing and evangelistic movements. This has now been demonstrated for the first time, on the basis of comprehensive research into the sources, by the Bad Liebenzell missiologist Bernd Brandl. A shadow is cast on Coerper’s Christian character and extensive ministry by his uncritical patriotic attitude to the politics of his day.

Summary Jesus and the God of Classical Theism examines seven key Christological questions. Detailed exegesis and engagement with biblical commentators from the past shape Duby’s defence of a classical Christian theism in which Aristotelian metaphysical categories illuminate the biblical witness to the work of God in Christ. This is an invaluable resource to put contemporary debates about the divine attributes in context.

Summary The war of aggression started by Russia against Ukraine in February 2022 shocked the entire civilised world. What is even more shocking for many, was the realisation that this war is being explained, supported and endorsed by the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill. In this article the author attempts to analyse the thinking of Patriarch Kirill as it was expressed just after the beginning of the war. The author builds on his previous research into the history of the Russian Orthodox Church and explores historical and meta-historical concepts. The article touches upon subjects such as the relationship between Church and state, the biblicalapocalyptic idea of the katechōn and the historical understanding of land and nation as they were transformed by Vladimir Putin and Patriarch Kirill. It demonstrates that it is impossible to understand Kirill on many issues without looking into the historical origins and continuity of these ideas. To ignore the historical dimension of Kirill’s thinking would mean to misunderstand the causes of this horrific war.

Summary Dunlop offers an accessible introduction to the use of photographs both for research into subjects’ lived theologies as well as to stimulate and support individual and corporate spirituality. This first step will help to guide students and practitioners in considering which approaches may be most fruitful for them if they wish to pursue supporting their projects and interests.