Postmodern Paradigm

The majority of current literature on evangelism and evangelistic methodology is based on historical and philosophical assumptions that were characteristic of the time prior to the late twentieth century -- a period that has come to be called the modern era. However, a new cultural paradigm has developed, one that Gosnell and others term the post-modern paradigm. Gosnell's contention is that in order to reach those members of contemporary society who might be characterised as "post-modern" in their thinking, the church must examine and evaluate its approach to ministry and mission in the twenty-first century. This dissertation examines the post-modern worldview and then suggests approaches to evangelism, ministry, and preaching that might be more effective than traditional approaches in evangelising post-modernists.