Product Description

Paul Avis in this, his latest work, draws firstly on the missiological insights of Karl Barth and the Second Vatican Council concerning the mission Dei, relating this theme directly to the tasks entrusted to the Church in 'The Great Commission' of Matthew 28: the ministry of the Word, the celebration of the sacraments and the exercise of pastoral responsibility. Avis shows how Christians share in the ministry of Christ himself. Secondly, he carries the argument forward, clarifying the much-abused term 'ministry' and offering a more rigorous and somewhat controversial definition of ministry: work for the Church that is mandated by the Church, and explicitly related to its core tasks. Ministers therefore represent both Christ and his Church. Finally, Avis applies his insights to ordained and lay ministry, and offers a cogent answer to the question: What difference does ordination make? The book concludes with an agenda for the reform and development of ministry in the light of the arguments advanced.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #400579 in Books
• Published on: 2005-03-31
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 131 pages

Review
"'In this book Paul Avis proposes a fresh look, whereby the whole church is seen as participating in God's mission, and its leaders have its conduct and oversight as their chief responsibility. Avis's vision holds promise for the internal reconcillation of the church and its structures, so that a restored unity mey itself make and continue a persuasive evangelical witness to a broken world.' Professor Geoffrey Wainwright, Cushman professor of Christian Theology at Duke University; 'will stimulate new thought about the relationship of ministry and mission, at the same time as it raises questions about their relationship to worship and to patristic prototypes. Avis offers a competent survey of the contemporary scene, especially in modern English theology, which is firmly grounded in reformation and ecumenical thought-forms.... there is no better introduction to its subject in print. J. Robert Wright Professor of Church History, General Theological Seminary, New York City, and Historiographer of the Episcopal Church."