The methodology of missiology in the context of Turtle Island
This article explores the impact of contextual change and reality in Turtle Island on missiological methodology. It is a contextually focused argument to try and tease out some specific dimensions of methodology. At the heart of the argument lies the conviction that posture in the study of missiology is a critical part of its methodology. This focus on posture also addresses the potential tension between practitioners of mission and university- and seminary-based professors of mission. First, it will briefly outline some traditional assumptions of missiological methodology. Then it will argue that methodology on Turtle Island should be rooted in a christomorphic engagement with Scripture and context. Out of this engagement arises a creatively constructive process, guided by the Spirit. Through this process missiological methodology needs to take on the character of a humble pilgrim through the different disciplines and “worlds” of its context while focused on the salvific thriving of all creation. Ultimately, because mission arises out of a joyful doxological response to God’s grace for the world, missiological methodology is to be practiced as a discipline of creative poiesis.