Christianity in Theravada Buddhist Southeast Asia
The Search for Reconciliation and Peace
$54.55
- Paperback
400 pages
- Release Date
31 August 2026
Summary
Despite five centuries of mission in Southeast Asia, Christianity remains a religious minority that experiences tensions with Buddhism. With great care and sensitivity, Dr. Stephen Bailey explores this complex religious relationship within this context. Drawing from the history of Christian mission, ethnographic research, and his own experience as a missionary, Bailey expertly examines the construction of religious identity, the growth of tension over time, and the influence of globalization on the religious landscape. Offering a way forward, Bailey advocates for nonviolent Christian witness rooted in the intentional practices of conflict resolution, interfaith dialogue, and reconciliation. From Southeast Asia to the globe, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in respectful and peaceful Christian witness to people from differing faiths.
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781786413123 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1786413124 |
| Author: | Stephen Bailey |
| Publisher: | Langham Publishing |
| Imprint: | Langham Global Library |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Number of Pages: | 400 |
| Release Date: | 31 August 2026 |
| Weight: | 540g |
| Dimensions: | 21mm x 152mm x 229mm |
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Critics Review
This timely and insightful work thoughtfully traces the history of Christianity in Southeast Asia while engaging the lived experiences of people shaped by Buddhist traditions who have come to faith in Christ. By presenting both the broader historical context and personal testimonies, the author offers readers a rich and balanced perspective.
Samnang Tep
Former Executive Director,
Evangelical Fellowship of Cambodia
This meticulously researched book gives a detailed account of the stumbling growth of Christianity in SE Asia over 500 years of history. By pointing out the glaring missiological challenges, Dr. Bailey provides a better understanding of Southeast Asia Theravada Buddhist-Christian relations in the region to help inform more appropriate and effective Christian witness.
Bantoon Boon-Itt, PhD
Pastor, Seub Sapantawong Church, Bangkok, Thailand
Bailey offers, by far, one of the most insightful and contextually grounded accounts of Christian mission in Theravada Southeast Asia. Without idealizing Christianity, he provides a nuanced and in-depth approach that enables readers to better grasp the intricate challenges of Christian mission in this Buddhist belt, thus providing a crucial foundation for a more impactful Christian witness.
Claire Tse Chien Chong, PhD
Research and Training Associate,
Singapore Centre for Global Missions
Stephen Bailey
Stephen Bailey
Stephen Bailey holds a PhD in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Seminary, California, USA. He currently serves as a Professor of Mission and Development Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary in Kentucky, USA.
Stephen, along with his wife Jacqui, dedicated over seventeen years to serving in Thailand and Laos with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. He remains actively involved in working with government and religious leaders in Laos to advocate for religious freedom and promote peacebuilding initiatives.
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