When missionaries encounter other religions, they often face "religious shock." They learn to know deeply committed Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists who defend their faiths with strong arguments and raise questions the missionaries have not faced. The missionaries are forced to reconsider old stereotypes and to think more deeply about the foundations of their own faith. Likewise, Christians in "Christian countries" increasingly meet people from different religious backgrounds. They, too, are challenged to rethink often simplistic stereotypes of other religions and how to bear witness to the gospel. Accordingly, churches must help their members respond faithfully to religious pluralism, laying biblical foundations for a bold witness, one that speaks the truth in love.
Christian Witness in Pluralistic Contexts in the Twenty-First Century
is not a set of textbook answers on how to witness to Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and others with simple formulas. It contains the wrestlings, affirmations, and testimonies of people who have been deeply involved in ministering to people of other religious faiths. The contributors have thought deeply about the issues that religious pluralism raises. As they testify to their experience and the lessons they've learned, readers will be encouraged and gain wisdom to faithfully navigate the pluralistic contexts.