This volume seeks to draw together scholars from biblical studies, systematic and historical theology, and practical theology to reflect on how the concept of participation can help us to think theologically about church planting.

Participation promises to offer a unique theological lens through which to see church planting; for the concept of participation is crucial for understanding the relationship between the church and mission of God. As the New Testament writers remind the early church over 130 times, their participation “in Christ” is central to life of the Church. Participation refers not just to the task that Christian disciples are given to do, but something of their identity: it tells us who they are. It is therefore crucial for any one trying to do ecclesiology; the church is not just a community of likeminded believers, but rather, they are those who participate in the mystical body of Christ.