Every year, dozens (or at least a handful) of new books come out on living missionally, so which are worth reading? Below is a list of nine resources I’d recommend on missional engagement. They aren’t listed in any particular order. These books have influenced my thinking on mission more than most. I’ve also included a link to the Amazon page.
1. Kingdom Come: How Jesus Wants to Change the World, by Allen Mitsuo Wakabayashi.
A wonderful, accessible introduction to the all-important, “here-but-not-yet” concept that is central for understanding the theology of the New Testament.
2. The Mission of God: Unlocking the Bible’s Grand Narrative, by Christopher J.H. Wright.
A full and comprehensive biblical, theological approach to mission. Especially helpful to see a biblical theology of mission extends way, way beyond the Great Commission.
3. The Open Secret: An Introduction to the Theology of Mission, by Lesslie Newbigin.
In so many ways, Newbigin started the conversation. Interestingly, I’ve been told Newbigin’s biggest influence for his work was Barth’s CD.IV. Makes sense to me.
4. Bible and Mission: Christian Witness in a Postmodern World, by Richard Bauckham.
Short, accessible and brings the conversation forward for contemporary culture. Obviously, written by a brilliant biblical scholar.
5. The Next Christendom: The Coming of Global Christianity, by Phillip Jenkins.
Christianity is becoming an increasingly non-Western thing. The next generation of Christian leaders will be non-Western, from places where Westerners “go.” How does that necessarily change the way we think of global mission?
