Reviewed by: Alyssa Roat, a professional writing major at Taylor University, Upland, Indiana

Introduction

Title: Four Views on the Church’s Mission

Author: Jonathan Leeman, Christopher J. H. Wright, John R. Franke, Peter J. Leithart

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: 2017

Format: Print book

Length: 208 pages

OVERVIEW

In this book, four scholars tackle the subject of the church’s mission. Leeman, Wright, Franke, and Leithart each offer an essay presenting their view, after which each of the others is permitted a response. These views include the church’s soteriological, participatory, contextual, and ecumenical-political missions respectively. Part of the Counterpoints series, this book, like the others in the series, is intended to explore differing views on a subject important to Christians.

As one would expect, the subject matter is somewhat dense. For the average layperson, the arguments presented may seem to be splitting hairs. With all four writers coming from within the circle of generally accepted orthodox Protestant Christianity, all four sections largely repeat one another with only minor differences, usually in emphases.

A reader looking for a rousing, entertaining discourse—such as is found in Four Views on Creation, Evolution, and Intelligent Design, another book in the series—will be sorely disappointed. Those looking for practical ideas and advice also will not find that here. However, this book does take a deep look at the purpose of the church, diving into the Bible, translation and hermeneutics, prophecy, critique of previous scholarly treatments, and careful reflection. A reader can expect to come away with an appreciation of God’s plan for the church and a few new ways of thinking about the ideas behind the church’s calling.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Due to depth of subject matter, this book is suggested for those with a high school education or greater and/or with a basic foundation of theological and doctrinal studies. It is also recommended for those looking for scholarly consideration rather than a book that is immediately personally applicable.

Christian Impact

Readers will be encouraged to think deeply about the mission and calling of the church.

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