Global Processes in the Contemporary Christian Church

In the 21st century, the global center of gravity of Christianity is shifting from the Northern Hemisphere to the Global South, with significant growth in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In contrast, Europe and North America are experiencing decline due to increasing secularization and religious disaffiliation. Migration is giving rise to new, culturally diverse diaspora congregations around the world. The increasingly popular digital space offers new opportunities for Christian mission, yet it cannot replace personal community. The faithfulness and growth of persecuted churches serve as powerful and inspiring testimonies to us all. At the same time, Christian responses to the pressing issues of social justice are becoming more important. For these reasons, discipleship plays a key role in the future of churches across all continents – along with a serving, fruitful church life that glorifies Christ, transcends itself, and authentically represents the Creator God in today’s world.