Reconciled Community: On Finding a Soteriology for Fresh Expressions

Recent experience suggests that there is insufficient reflection on the ‘why’ of mission among missionary pioneers, that is, on the soteriology that underpins missional practices in the West. This article argues, first, that a social view of salvation is the best way to make theological sense of missional community formation (MCF). Second, this implied soteriology is further developed as an integrative lens on various dimensions of salvation in Christianity. Third, it is argued that this relocation of MCF in this social view of salvation offers rich opportunities for witness, and thus a potential remedy against soteriological embarrassment.