Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

For the first time in human history, the majority of people around the world now live in cities â€" and urban culture and values, communicated by electronic means, profoundly influence the lives of everyone on earth. In this stimulating and challenging volume, David Smith explores the history and nature of this development, identifying both its potential for good and the possibility that it might result in catastrophe. Drawing on a range of academic disciplines, he describes today's urban world, before offering an extended study of the theme of the city in the Bible, relating this to the challenges confronting cities in the twenty-first century. Smith outlines key theological themes and enables Christians to understand the globalized, urban world within which their faith must be confessed. He argues that this context presents world Christianity with a unique opportunity to share its vision of an alternative human community. He appreciates the insights of urban specialists, who are invited into a conversation concerning the biblical, God-centred vision of the city â€" a vision which can provide fresh imagination and hope for the century that lies ahead.