western society is now a very different, very difficult mission field. In this significant new work of practical theology Darrell Guder explores how the church can more effectively carry out its missionary calling. He shows that the church's missionary calling requires that the theology and practice of evangelism be fundamentally rethought and redirected, focused on the continuing conversion of the church itself so that it can in turn be a faithful witness in today's world.

After charting the church's historical shift away from a biblical theology of evangelism and highlighting the contemporary challenges to evangelical ministry, Guder discusses what a truly missional theology will mean for the church, including sweeping changes in its institutional structures and practices. His highly constructive conclusions make The Continuing Conversion of the Church vital reading for teachers, church leaders, students, and everyone engaged in mission work.