Rethinking Christology for a New Missional Era
Rethinking Christology for a New Missional Era
Lecture and Panel
Nov. 20, 2025, 11:30 a.m. -3:45 p.m. ET
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
In Person: $25 / Online: $10
What do we say the Christian faith is about? What is the unique thing we find in Christianity but nowhere else? According to recent research, most pastors and church planters would answer these questions with “Jesus” – but find it difficult to express what difference he makes. Older soteriological models no longer seem to resonate; past language feels no longer life giving.
Professor Edwin van Driel's and the Rev. Samuel Wells' recently published books double down on the centrality of the incarnation for God’s relating to creation, but offer fresh ways to unpack the meaning of the gospel for a new missional era. During the event's worship and conversation, they invite clergy and others into their findings and a deepened understanding of Christian faith and ministry.
Book Information:
Constructing an Incarnational Theology: A Christocentric View of God's Purpose by: Samuel Wells
The Incarnation as God’s First Intention: Supralapsarian Christology for Faith and Practice by: Edwin Chr. van Driel
Presenters
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Samuel Wells is an Anglican clergyperson, theologian, and broadcaster. A former dean of Duke University Chapel, for the last 13 years he has served as vicar of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, London, where he oversees a unique configuration of commercial, cultural, and charitable initiatives set in the context of a thriving congregation. Author of 50 books, his Constructing an Incarnational Theology was published this year by Cambridge University Press.
Edwin Chr. van Driel is the Directors’ Bicentennial Professor of Theology at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He serves on the steering team of the Seminary’s Preaching in a Post-Christian Age Initiative, and was the convener of the International Consultation on Ecclesial Futures. An award winner author, his The Incarnation as God’s First Intention was published this year by Baker Academics.
Schedule
| Thurs., Nov. 20 | ||
| 11:30 a.m. | Community Worship | Hicks Chapel Sanctuary |
| 12:15-1:00 p.m. | Community Lunch | John Knox Room |
| 1:00-2:15 p.m. | “Why Did Jesus Come?” | John Knox Room |
| 2:30-3:45 p.m. | “What is the Church For?” | John Knox Room |
Questions
Please contact or call 412-924-1345.