Bearing the Witness of the Spirit: Lesslie Newbigin's Theology of Cultural Plurality

What are the theological implications of today's multicultural world? What does cultural plurality mean for the life and mission of the church? According to George Hunsberger, the need for a solid theological assessment of multiculturalism lies at the heart of discussions about church unity, cross -cultural mission, and interreligious relations. In Hunsberger shows that just such a "theology of cultural plurality" can be found in the missionary theology of Lesslie Newbigin. This in-depth study of Newbigin's thought brings into clear view the "theology of cultural plurality" nascent in Newbigin's writings and demonstrates its importance for today's church. Interacting closely with Newbigin's published and unpublished works, Hunsberger describes Newbigin's biblical rationale for the life and witness of the church in a culturally plural world. By teasing out Newbigin's thinking in this realm, Hunsberger gives shape to a theological area of inquiry and reflection badly needed for fruitful discussions of cross-cultural mission and ecumenism.