The Brave New World of Gospel Ministry: Taking the Great Commission Seriously at a Time of Perceived Christian Marginalization

Abstract

It is a generalization, but certainly not simply a presumption, that there is consternation on the part of many Christians as they look at the present and toward the future of Christendom in America. Members of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, too, often experience and articulate a perceived tension between themselves and non-Christians—even against those non-Christians who are of a similar cultural background with similar economic achievement and stability. The basis for the tension on the part of many Christians is often attributed to a perceived marginalization of Christianity in American society. Is Christianity losing, or has it even lost, a central position it once enjoyed in politics, culture, values, and the economy? That is a scary and depressing thought for many Christians. Whether Christianity is becoming increasingly marginalized or not, a more thorough study of God’s Word, the people around us, and ourselves leads to a more sober and ultimately more optimistic view of the Christian role as gospel herald in American society at this time and in the future.