Paradigms in Conflict: 10 Key Questions in Christian Missions Today
David J. Hesselgrave, Kregel, 2005, ISBN 0825427703, 368 pages, $20.99, softcover.
By Bob Gerow

At first blush one might think obeying the Great Commission is not that hard—“Go and make disciples of all nations.” But a sampling of chapter headings in Hesselgrave’s new book alerts the reader to the challenge: “Sovereignty and Free Will,” “Power Encounter and Truth Encounter,” “A Call for Missionaries or a Divine Calling?”

It turns out that devout hearts and thoughtful minds have wrestled with strategy-altering issues in missions for a long time. In Paradigms in Conflict, the author sets out to explain ten pivotal issues and to lay the groundwork for thoughtful disciple-makers still to come.

Paradigms in Conflict is a thoughtful study that demonstrates a breadth of understanding born out of years of study and practice of what it means to be a missionary. Hesselgrave traces the development of central ideas in missions theory and practice, defends positions he believes require it, but also leaves some positions for the reader to decide—as long as the reader understands the outcome. Ideas do have consequences.

Hesselgrave’s strongest contribution may be a perspective that is truly global and that addresses the task of the church in our day. Given the world in which we live, a work that speaks as clearly to a believer overseas as it does to a U.S. seminarian is sure to make a significant difference.
Target: Disciple-makers
Type: Missions Theory
Take: Worth Every Effort