Missiology, by its very nature, is a dynamic discipline responsive to changes. Often such changes are mandated by the socio-cultural changes in the context of service/ministry; at other times it is in response to changes in the world at large. Sometimes such changes are so significant that they push the boundaries of what has been standard mission practice. Such cutting-edge changes result in “new frontiers in missiology.” What are the new frontiers confronting missiology in the second quarter of the 21st century? In other words, what are the many rapid changes taking place in the world today and how are they pushing the boundaries of missiology? Rapid advances in globalization, urbanization, technology, education, medicine and health care, and more, will all impact missiology in ways that are still unknown. Key questions come to the forefront such as: What are the rapid advances that will most impact missiology and what should be our response as evangelical missiologists to these new frontiers? The vast diversity of answers is expressed by the differing perspectives within missions—from the academy, the church, and the practitioner. The 2024 national conference of EMS aims to address these new frontiers in missiology from all of these perspectives. Given the multiple intersections of global change with mission, the Evangelical Missiological Society invites you to consider how your particular strengths and interests might stimulate deeper discussion, thoughtful consideration and innovative measures, surrounding the annual theme and to frame a proposal to present a paper. Possible topics include, but are not limited to: The continuing unprecedented large scale moving of peoples crossing borders and/or towards urban centers and the challenges and opportunities. New understandings of what constitutes the “church” in light of future epidemics similar to Covid. The possibilities of artificial intelligence like ChatGPT for language learning, Bible translation, ministry in oral cultures, and educational institutions. The use of technology through extended reality that will create more immersive digital experiences with missiological implications for evangelism and church planting. The redefining of health through new approaches to medicine and well-being worldwide and their impact on missiology. The redefining of gender and family and the impacts on the church and mission. The decline of globalization, the rise of nationalism, and other major geo-political shifts that impact mission.
Papers are solicited that address these and other related topics from missiological, theological, historical, sociological, and/or regional perspectives. |
