Globalizing Theology

Globalizing Theology
Craig Ott and Harold Netland
Baker Academic (2006)
These essays examine the impact of globalization on Christianity, and more specifically, various aspects of Christian theology. The editors of this book argue that “globalization and the emergence of world Christianity have profound implications on how we do theology.” (15) The essays were written to develop an understanding of the fusion between local trends in Christianity and universal perspectives that may transcend cultural norms.
The chapters in the book are grouped into three sections. The first section outlines the significant challenges to theology brought about by the process of globalization and a new, worldwide Christianity. The second section focuses on several key methods utilized to understand globalizing theology. The third section presents more comprehensive viewpoints into a range of issues connected to the church, theology, and globalization. All of the sections work well together in the construction of a foundation in which to examine global theological concepts, from both a historical and a modern perspective.
Andrew Walls argued that the “Christian life and thought, taking as its norm the incarnation of the divine Word, requires incarnation, embodiment in the cultural specifics of a particular time and place. Generations may be utterly diverse, therefore, in their understanding and experience of the grace of God and yet belong together in the ultimate purpose of God.” (76) This was great insight into the seemingly complicated realm of context in the spread of worldwide Christianity.
I thought Kevin Vanhoozer made some great points in his essay entitled “One Rule to Rule Them All?” He described in depth the importance of embracing context during the process of theological study. He argued that “the most insidious effect of globalization is homogenization – of culture, of religion.” (101) Many forms of Christianity in America are a homogenous blend of culture and religion, or beliefism. Christian theologians must be careful to avoid the negative factors associated with globalization.
In the section on methodology, Lois McKinney Douglas argued that “in doing global theologizing, it is important for committed Christian theologians from around the world to develop a metatheological framework that enables them to understand, compare, and evaluate local theologies, the questions each is seeking to answer, and the sociocultural contexts in which each must define the gospel.” (302) Christians can be easily led astray as a result of globalization if they are unable or unwilling to develop a solid framework with which to study scripture.
This book had some major impact on the perspectives I take into my work on a daily basis. I often feel terribly ill-equipped to navigate through cross-cultural issues related to LAMP’s suburban/urban relationships, church/state partnerships, and racial reconciliation. The material presented in these essays has helped me to build a foundation to be confident in understanding globalization and cross-cultural issues related to Christianity. Many of the authors provided historical overviews of the nature of the relationship between theology and many differing global worldviews. A major takeaway for me was the importance of understanding context as I work with LAMP families and their mentees.