The Meanings of Discipleship: Being Disciples Then and Now

Product Description Discipleship is a foundational concept of Christian life which has become a popular and ubiquitous description of belonging and growth in early 21st ecclesiastical language. Discipleship courses and popular writings abound and the term is used liberally in official church documents and strategies for growth and development, particular in a western context. But does recent use of the word risk reducing the wide range of meanings of discipleship to something less rich and inclusive than is warranted? With contributions from an array of leading thinkers, scholars and theologians, including Rachel Mann, Kirsteen Kim and Anthony Reddie, this book argues that there is need for more clarity, precision and depth in defining what meaningfully and constructively is construed as discipleship. Beginning with an overview of how the concept of discipleship has been understood in history, the volume goes on to consider some of the key figures who have shaped our understanding of the concept, and finally to reflect on what discipleship might look like in contemporary society. About the Author Andrew Hayes is Director of the Centre of Discipleship and Theology, and the author of Defining Christianity: Justin against Marcion.The Revd Dr Stephen Cherry is the Dean of King's College Cambridge and an active writer and speaker on Christian spirituality and practical theology. He was previously a Residentiary Canon of Durham Cathedral and Director of Ministerial Development and Parish Support for the diocese of Durham.