A Baptist 1 View of Missions for Postmodernity

Abstract

Recognizing that it is ineffective to utilize mission methodologies conceived for modernity to attempt to reach postmodern culture and persons, this essay first provides a sketch of postmodernity, then suggests paradigm shifts that will enable missioners and their methodologies to fit our postmodern age. Postmodernity may be described as non-foundational, non-propositional, non-totalizing, non-objective, non-univocal, non-elitist, non-segmental, non-religious, and non-optimistic. In light of these widely-acknowledged characteristics of our culture, baptist mission philosophers and practitioners are advised to make appropriately corresponding paradigm shifts: From certainty to adventure, from propositionalism to relationship, from triumphalism to weakness, from pronouncement to testimony, from monologue to dialogue, from center to periphery, from dualism to holism, from familiarity to mystery, and from consolation to empowerment. While such shifts will not guarantee a larger “harvest,” they will enhance our “planting” and “watering” ministries around the world.