Edward L. Smither Books

Exploring the early church from AD 100 to 750, this book delves into the social, political, cultural, and religious contexts that shaped Christian missions. It narrates the experiences of early missionaries, highlighting key themes such as suffering, evangelism, Bible translation, and contextualization. By examining these historical practices, readers are encouraged to reflect on how the mission strategies of the early church can influence contemporary global mission efforts.

Exploring the theme of hospitality as a central aspect of God's mission, the book emphasizes how divine outreach occurs through welcoming and intimate communion with others. It illustrates this concept through biblical narratives, the practice of Eucharist, and the examples set by monks and modern missionaries. The text advocates for a shift in the church's approach from a desire to conquer to a commitment to embrace and invite strangers, reflecting God's hospitable nature while sharing the gospel.

Focusing on the theme of martyrdom, Edward Smither examines its biblical and historical significance within Christianity, contrasting modern Western desires for comfort and power with the enduring legacy of suffering in the faith. He defends the idea that martyrdom serves as a witness to Christ, a prophetic voice, and an act of worship. Smither encourages contemporary Christians to embrace suffering and martyrdom as integral aspects of their spiritual journey, challenging the prevailing notion of a pain-free faith.

"Smither weaves together a ... history of Christian mission from the apostles to the modern church. In each era, he focuses on the people sent by God to the ends of the earth, while also describing the cultural context they encountered"--Back cover.

John Stott, a notable pastor and Bible teacher, played a pivotal role in shaping global missional theology. His involvement with the Lausanne Movement allowed for the inclusion of majority world Christians in theological discussions. Through Langham Partners, he provided essential resources for training pastors and a platform for theologians to publish their work. Stott's innovative efforts empowered global theologians to develop their own theological perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and diverse theological landscape.

The narrative explores the transformation of the Brazilian evangelical church from a recipient of missionaries to a significant global sending force. Highlighting its extensive outreach, the book delves into Brazilian evangelical efforts in the Arab world, examining cultural adaptations, ministry approaches, and the development of a theology of mission. This work provides valuable insights into an emerging missions movement, contributing to a broader understanding of the global church's dynamics and the unique role Brazil plays within it.

Exploring the intersection of faith and work, this book offers insights into how individuals can live out their spiritual beliefs in professional environments. It emphasizes the importance of integrating one’s mission with daily business practices, highlighting real-life examples of people who successfully embody their values in the marketplace. The narrative encourages readers to view their work as a platform for service and influence, ultimately suggesting that every profession can be a mission field for positive change.

Exploring the intersection of monastic life and missionary work, this book delves into the crucial role that monks played in Christian missions from 500 to 1500 CE. It highlights how these individuals combined their spiritual commitments with outreach efforts, challenging the traditional distinction between missionaries and monks. Through narratives of various monks and monastic orders, the text examines their missions, methodologies, and theological perspectives, revealing the significant impact they had on the spread of Christianity during this period.