Anthropological Insights and the Early Voices of Ethnodoxology

Abstract

“Whither Bound in Missions?”— In Which Direction is the Missions Movement Going?  Missiologist Daniel Fleming formalized this question in his book, Whither Bound in Missions?, published in 1925.  This and several other publications in the early to middle of the 20^th century demonstrate the engagement of the missiological community with anthropological perspectives seeking to understand and support the direction of missions for the upcoming century.  In doing so, they have contributed as well to practiced anthropology through missions.

   This article explores the contributions of three authors who were learning the value of incorporating anthropological perspectives into the missionary enterprise.  They were also forerunners of the discipline of ethnodoxology, encouraging the application of local music and art for the communication of the Christian faith when the topic was not yet of great concern within the broader missiological movement.  They often demonstrate a perception ahead of their time, and courageously call on their constituency—and even on us in the 21st century— to learn and apply principles that can strengthen the Mission of God in the long run.