Memory and Mission by prominent Reformation scholar David C. Steinmetz shows how scholarly tools can be put at the service of the local church. Dr. Steinmetz selects ten issues that vex and stir today's church-especially the laity. He then puts each issue into its historical context, showing not only the roots from which each issue grew, but how understanding those roots can affect the current debate.

Among the topics discussed are the role of women in the church, the role of women clergy, the historical debate over biblical interpretation, the meaning of conversion, inclusive-language, and ordination. Dr. Steinmetz also offers some insight into the role of Mary in the Protestant tradition, and sheds light on the current ecumenical discussion of ordination by presenting the thinking of Francis Asbury. Dr. Steinmetz states as his thesis that "memory of the past is essential to the Church's self-identity and thus to its mission." Memory and Mission shows how practical history can be.