Shalom and Sangsaeng: Transforming Discipleship in a Pandemic-Stricken World

Abstract

This article examines the theme of the 15th Assembly of the IAMS in 2022, “Powers, Inequalities, and Vulnerabilities: Mission in a Wounded World”. It focuses on putting justice, equality, and liberation at the heart of the Christian mission as a way of transforming discipleship in a pandemic-stricken world. The biblical concept of shalom and the Korean concept of sangsaeng will be examined and discussed as relevant mission concepts in order to respond to the current challenges caused by the global pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a radical impact on every aspect of life. As lockdowns, social distancing measures to prevent the spread of infection have led to a new “non-contact” culture. Mission and evangelism, which presuppose face-to-face contact and communication, are going through a crisis. Even amid the crisis, however, the mission remains an essential calling of the church and all Christians. Therefore, this article examines transforming discipleship as a radical proposal to live out the mission concepts of shalom and sangsaeng in the context of the global pandemic.