Transforming Worldviews: An Anthropological Understanding of How People Change

In the past, changes in behavior and in belief have been leading indicators for missionaries that Christian conversion had occurred. But these alone–or even together–are insufficient for a gospel understanding of conversion. For effective biblical mission, Paul G. Hiebert argues, we must add a third element: a change in worldview. Here he offers a comprehensive study of worldview–its philosophy, its history, its characteristics, and the means for understanding it. He then provides a detailed analysis of several worldviews that missionaries must engage today, addressing the impact of each on Christianity and mission. A biblical worldview is outlined for comparison. Finally, Hiebert argues for gospel ministry that seeks to transform people’s worldviews and offers suggestions for how to do so.