Vision Week 3: The Church as the body

George Eldon Ladd's "The Gospel of the Kingdom" is a seminal work in evangelical theology that explores the nature and implications of the Kingdom of God. Ladd emphasizes the Kingdom as God's active reign, not merely a future event, and its relevance to all aspects of life. He challenges traditional interpretations, highlighting the Kingdom's present reality and its transformative power in society. The book delves into the biblical concept of the Kingdom, examining its historical context and its implications for the church and the world. Ladd's work has significantly influenced evangelical thought and practice, shaping understandings of mission and social engagement.

Published in 1970, 'Future Shock' by Alvin Toffler and his wife Adelaide Farrell examines the profound effects of rapid industrial and technological changes on individuals, families, and society. The book defines 'future shock' as a state of disorientation and confusion resulting from the overwhelming pace of change. Toffler argues that this rapid change leads to psychological ailments such as anxiety, hostility, and depression, and erodes traditional social structures like families and communities. He identifies three main forces driving future shock: transience, novelty, and diversity. The book also discusses the need for resilience and adaptive strategies to cope with these changes and suggests that societal institutions must evolve to support individuals in managing the 'adaptive range' required to deal with the accelerating pace of life[2][3][4].