A Hopeful Future
Reflections on Global Evangelicalism and the Croatian Context
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32862/k.16.2.1Keywords:
evangelicalism, evangelical Christianity, theology, eschatology, hopeAbstract
Despite valid criticisms and the challenge of definition, evangelicalism remains a real and vital coalition of like-minded Christians committed to the historic Christian faith both globally and in Croatia. Evangelical Christianity in Croatia has its distinct history, challenges, and needs for its future, and its theologians will need to play a crucial role in the ongoing life and growth of evangelical churches. Four important areas are highlighted for the role of the theologian: commitment to scriptural teaching and discipleship in local churches; critical evaluation of outside influences; engagement with and contribution to the global evangelical faith, and engagement with wider Croatian society and Roman Catholicism. While some evangelicals approach the future with optimistic, pessimistic, or realistic approaches, the future of evangelical Christianity in Croatia is rather rooted in a hopeful view: the eschatological hope of the Gospel. The life, death, and resurrection of the Messiah Jesus and the gift of the eschatological Spirit to the church form the historical basis by which evangelical Christians in Croatia are called and empowered to live out their future hope in the present.
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