Abstract:
The research attended to the call by the World Council of Churches in the mission affirmation
Together towards life to renew methods of evangelism and to communicate the good news with
persuasion, inspiration and conviction, by providing a theological framework for reflection on
joy and flourishing life, and its place in mission studies.
The link between mission, evangelism and discipleship was developed as a basis to expand
the understanding of evangelism as an invitation to personal conversion and discipleship.
Discipleship was defined as participating in the Triune God’s life-giving mission and as being
on a journey towards flourishing life.
It showed that the gospel message of joy, good news and life in fullness serves as a counterculture
against the prevailing rhetoric of religious and secular prosperity gospels, consumerism and
individualism. It also warned that discipleship in mission is costly and radical. Discipleship is
a life of generosity and service, where the true disciple delights in justice, gives generously and
cares for the weak.
The research concluded with a discussion of practical holistic practices of embodied
discipleship – practices that will form habits where disciples will live a flourishing life.
