Ray Anderson offers a theological framework for the emerging church. Showing that an emergent theology is messianic, revelational, kingdom-coming and eschatological, this book addresses many of the concerns of those looking for a church that is contemporary, yet true to the gospel in its beliefs.

"Fuller Seminary theology professor Anderson bases a theology for today's 'emerging' churches on the church in first-century Antioch. Like that ancient church, today's church may need a 'new theological orientation,' and like today's 'emerging' churches, the Antiochian church was 'mission-minded.' Anderson emphasizes the vital, ongoing activity of the Holy Spirit, arguing that new churches that don't have an established structure to fall back on must rely entirely on the Spirit's guidance. He cautions emerging churches not to become watered-down spiritually, but to remain true to the specifically Christian task of helping usher in the kingdom of God. Sometimes Anderson could be more concrete. For example, in one chapter he explains that just as 'the work of God through Christ became a narrative text' that helps the church apply Scripture, our own stories can interpret biblical texts. The example he offers is of a seminary where, decades ago, the stories of real women helped people reinterpret biblical discussions about gender. Anderson does not take the next step and spell out new stories emerging in today's church that might similarly press Christians to reinterpret Scripture. All in all, this is a solid, though not especially original, book." Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)