Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Introduction: The role of ecclesiology in (systematic) theology
The church as an icon of the Trinity : Eastern Orthodox ecclesiology
The church as the people of God : Roman Catholic ecclesiology
The church as just and sinful : Lutheran ecclesiology
The church as covenant : Reformed ecclesiology
The church as the fellowship of believers : free church ecclesiologies
The church in the power of the spirit : Pentecostal/charismatic ecclesiologies
The church as one : the ecumenical movement ecclesiologies
John Zizioulas : communion ecclesiology
Hans Küng : charismatic ecclesiology
Wolfhart Pannenberg: universal ecclesiology
Jürgen Moltmann : Messianic ecclesiology
Miroslav Volf : participatory ecclesiology
James McClendon Jr. : Baptist ecclesiology
Lesslie Newbigin : missionary ecclesiology
Concluding reflections on leading ecclesiologists
The non-church movement in Asia
Base ecclesial communities in Latin America
The feminist church
African independent churches' ecclesiology
The shepherding movement's renewal ecclesiology
A world church
The post-Christian church as "another city"
Epilogue: Ecclesiological challenges for the third millennium

"In this volume, theologian Veli-Matti Karkkainen provides an up-to-date survey and analysis of the major ecclesiological traditions, the most important theologians and a number of contextual approaches which answer that very question." "Drawing on his international experience, global research and ecumenical awareness, Karkkainen presents an overview of both traditional and contemporary expressions of the Christian church. An Introduction to Ecclesiology will richly reward the student, pastor or layperson who is looking for a comprehensive and insightful overview of the unity and diversity of understandings and practices within the one church of Jesus Christ."--Jacket