Asian Missions Advance, #84

Summer 2024 / 84th

1. Progressive Presbyterianism: Missionaries, Modernization, and Protest on the Korean Peninsula, 1884~1919

[Nicholas W. Gentile]

This paper explores Presbyterian missionary work in Korea during the Progressive Era from 1884 to 1919. It argues that progressive American Presbyterians developed unique methods of proselytizing, methods that promoted (1) modernization along Western lines and (2) protest against Japanese colonialism. By employing the Nevius System, encouraging literacy and capitalism, and providing expanded opportunities for women, they disseminated a Christianity that helped to modernize Korea in the Western image…

2. Journeying in Asia: Incarnational Living with Hope

[Lawrence Ko]

As early as 3000 years ago, the Chinese sought to grapple with changes in life and embraced the Book of Changes (Yijing) as a guide to understand change generated by a dynamic which appears to be evolutionary, mysterious and yet discernible. Understanding the mystery of life compels a reverence for the unknown and unknowable, the force behind life itself, whether divine or otherwise. The quest for understanding change remains unabated but the ability to change with the times and to adapt to changes may be more challenging…

3. Igniting Intergenerational Mission in a Japanese Context

[Micaela Braithwaite]

Intergenerational mission has gained popularity in mission strategy, as leaders in mission increasingly recognise the value of younger generations serving alongside older, more experienced leaders. Not only does intergenerational leadership create the opportunity for integrating younger generations into existing leadership teams, and facilitate healthy leadership structures in this way, but it also strengthens the decision making process and shapes all leaders involved…

4. The Holy Spirit and Missio Dei

[Humphrey Iheukwumere Okereafor & Timothy U. U. Oguzie]

This paper examines the symbiotic relationship between the Holy Spirit and Missio Dei, particularly within the framework of Pentecostal manifestations, historically and in contemporary contexts, with a specific focus on Nigeria. It offers an overview of Pentecostal manifestations, drawing from biblical foundations to contemporary practices. It highlights Nigeria’s landscape and explores how Pentecostalism catalyses church planting and exponential growth…

5. Mission: Contextualizing Theology and the Gospel

[Chester Jae Young Choi]

Sri Lankan theologian Pieris’s explanation of why Christianity is not taking hold in Sri Lanka should interest missionaries. He uses the helicopter theory of religious expansion to explain why Christian missions are not taking hold in Sri Lanka. First, metaphysical, supernatural religion is like a helicopter, while natural religion is a landing pad for supernatural religion to land on the ground. The meeting of the two does not result in a radical conversion from natural to supernatural religion…