The Church and Its Vocation

Michael W. Goheen (PhD, University of Utrecht) is professor of missional theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. He is also professor of missional theology and director of theological education at the Missional Training Center, Phoenix. Goheen is the author or coauthor of numerous books, including The Drama of Scripture, Living at the Crossroads, A Light to the Nations, and The Church and Its Vocation. He splits his time between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Phoenix, Arizona.

"Goheen has written a rich and engaging introduction to Newbigin's missionary ecclesiology. He's done so in a way that demonstrates his context and perspective as a missional theologian in his own right. Goheen has soaked in Newbigin's ideas for decades. This book gives us the opportunity to benefit from that long study and to discover the wisdom of Newbigin, a magisterial spiritual visionary of enduring relevance."--Scot Sherman, Newbigin House of Studies, San Francisco"Once again, Newbigin is a prophetic voice during a turning point in the history of the church. Newbigin's work is profoundly relevant and an essential read for all who want to regain their passion for the church's mission in the world. Goheen's book masterfully and thoughtfully brings Newbigin's ecclesiology to life for 'such a time as this.' A must-read for anyone who wants a fresh, relevant, challenging vision for the church today."--A. Sue Russell, Asbury Theological Seminary"In this important book, Goheen channels his love and deep knowledge of Newbigin into a clear and compelling systematic reflection on the church as missionary. This is a must-read for every missiologist and ecclesiologist and for anyone who has been captivated by Newbigin's generous spirit and powerful intellect."--Steve Bevans, SVD, Catholic Theological Union"Goheen effectively captures Newbigin as a passionate thinker, communicator, and leader. The fact that Newbigin continues to be read and discussed two decades after his death testifies to the continuing force of his vision, ideas, and convictions. The many years Goheen has invested in thorough study of the Newbigin literary oeuvre yields rich insights in this book."--Wilbert R. Shenk, Fuller Graduate School of Intercultural Studies"Goheen is a superb interpreter of Newbigin. In this inspiring and highly readable book, Goheen invites us to rediscover Newbigin's missional ecclesiology for this generation. I appeal to pastors, students, teachers, and local church leaders: read this book! It will shape your understanding of the church's missional vocation in the world."--Dean Flemming, MidAmerica Nazarene University