Who then can be saved? Perspectives on a lived theology of salvation among Fresh Expressions in the UK

James Butler, Cathy Ross

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

While there seems to be a lot of angst around whether a fresh expression of church is actually church, there is less discussion and attention given to the soteriology of fresh expressions. Paas and Schaeffer argue that fresh expressions exhibit a communal soteriology and this chapter builds on that insight by exploring the findings of a qualitative research project with members of three fresh expressions and further discussions with various leaders of fresh expressions. We identify and explore this communal soteriology and reflect on the themes and practices that emerge. We then explore the ‘fruit’ of this communal soteriology and the differences that these communities have made, both within and without. We discuss whether these findings reflect a turn to the immanent and a focus on wellbeing as seen in contemporary culture and decide that this is not the case as each of these communities are keenly focussed on prayer. We conclude by discussing how a focus on lived soteriology can begin to offer a new perspective on some of the angst around ecclesiology that can be present in much of the ecclesiological conversations in fresh expressions.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationVisions of the Good Life and the Why of Christian Faith in the Secular West. On Salvation, Church, and Mission
PublisherBrill Academic Publishers
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 24 May 2024

Publication series

NameTheology and Mission in World Christianity
PublisherBrill

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