Best of
Church

1999

Fire of the Covenant: The Story of the Willie and Martin Handcart Companies


Gerald N. Lund - 1999
    All went well, and they arrived without undue incident. But two additional companies - one captained by James G. Willie, and the other by Edward Martin - left England late in the season. When they arrived at Iowa City, they were long past the time for safe departure across the plains. By the time they left Florence, Nebraska, with still more than a thousand miles to go, it was near the end of August. As if that were not serious enough, President Brigham Young thought that the arrival of the third company ended the migration for that season and ordered the resupply wagons back to Salt Lake. Fire of the Covenant is the story of those handcart pioneers and their exodus to the Salt Lake Valley. Author Gerald N. Lund has used the same techniques present in The Work and the Glory series to blend fictional characters into the tapestry of actual historical events, making this a story filled with all the elements of great drama - tragedy, triumph, pathos, courage, sacrifice, surrender and faith.

Glimpses into the Life and Heart of Marjorie Pay Hinckley


Virginia H. Pearce - 1999
    Hinckley, she little knew what dramatic turns her life would take. How could any newlywed envision that she might someday be the eternal companion of the prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?In Glimpses into the Life and Heart of Marjorie Pay Hinckley, dozens of family members and friends share experiences and feelings that demonstrate the character of a quietly remarkable woman. These vignettes combine with the words of Sister Hinckley herself, gleaned from talks, letters, and conversations, to create a portrait that is engaging and inspiring. From her profound yet simple faith to her optimism and sense of humor, from her love of mothering and grandmothering to her enthusiasm for learning, Sister Hinckley's personality traits are perfectly suited to her mission. She goes through life with a smile in her heart and a gift for loving that reaches out to embrace everyone she meets. As you meet her in these pages, you'll fall under the spell of her warmth, her genuineness, and her testimony.

Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Teacher's Manual


The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 1999
    

The Gate of Heaven: Insights on the Doctrines and Symbols of the Temple


Matthew B. Brown - 1999
    Brown explores the rich heritage of symbolism that has characterized temples and temple worship through the ages, reverently examining the sacred doctrines associated with the gate of heaven. Among many other topics he discusses; Rituals and symbols from the Tabernacle of Moses, the Temple of Solomon, and the holy places of the earliest Christians. The remarkable parallels between ancient temple worship and the doctrines and ordiances restored by Joseph Smith. Personages from the spirit world who returned to earth to requiest temple work, to assist with this work, or to witness their own work being done. The restored doctrine of making one's calling and election sure. Long-standing myths about LDS temple worship and the origin, symbols, and rituals of Freemasonry.

Holy Bible: The Narrated Bible NIV


Anonymous - 1999
    A beloved favorite--now with a new cover. "The Narrated Bible "is the only chronological presentation of God's Word with devotional commentary to guide the reader, including-- the laws of Moses presented together in one unified legal code arranged by subject the wisdom literature--including Proverbs--presented topically the four Gospels gathered together in one harmonious account Paul's epistles integrated and presented within the historical record of Acts Bible readers, ministers, students, and teachers will be delighted with this remarkable Bible.

Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace: Living in the Spirit of the Prayer of St. Francis


Kent Nerburn - 1999
    Francis of Assisi. The Prayer of St. Francis boldly but gently challenges us to resist the forces of evil and negativity with the spirit of goodwill and generosity. And Nerburn shows, in his wonderfully personal and humble way, how we each can live out the prayer's prescription for living in our everyday and less-than-saintly lives. "Where there is hatred, let me sow love...Where there is injury, let me sow pardon..." Expanding upon each line of the St. Francis Prayer, Nerburn shares touching, inspiring stories from his own experience and that of others and reveals how each of us can make a difference for good in ordinary ways without being heroes or saints. Struggling to help a young son comfort his best friend when his mother dies, moved by the courage of war enemies who reconcile, being wrenched out of self-absorbed depression by responding to someone else's tragedy, taking a spirited old lady on a farewell taxi ride through her town-these are the kinds of everyday moments in which Nerburn finds we can live out the spirit of St. Francis.By incorporating the power and grace of these few lines of practical idealism into our thoughts and deeds, we can begin to ease our own suffering-and the suffering of those with whom we share our lives. And, remarkably, find a way to true peace and happiness by tapping into our basic human goodness. As we open our hearts and embrace his words, St. Francis "touches our deepest humanity and ignites the spark of our divinity."Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.Where there is hatred let me sow love, Where there is injury let me sow pardon, Where there is doubt, faith, Where there is despair, hope, Where there is darkness, light, And where there is sadness, joy...In this beautifully written book, Kent Nerburn leads us into the heart of the St. Francis Prayer and line by line demonstrates how St. Francis's words can resonate in our lives today.

Happiness, Finders' Keepers


Mary Ellen Edmunds - 1999
    What is it, and where can it be found? Is it an ideal to be hoped for in the next life, or a reality to be sought here and now? "To me there was never a time when we had a greater need for happiness and for the peace, contentment, serenity, hope, gratitude, and joy that are part of it," writes Mary Ellen Edmunds. In Happiness: Finders, Keepers, she offers a wealth of practical, cheery, spirit-filled suggestions for living a happier life. Since our Father in Heaven's plan is "the great plan of happiness," and since one of the reasons for our very existence is that we "might have joy" (2 Nephi 2:25), it's clear that we're meant to be happy right now, here, today! We can do so, even in the midst of trials, if we understand the true nature of this heavenly gift. "I am convinced that even with the heavy burdens, the awful injustices, and the tragedies in the world, there is happiness all around us," writes the author. "We must be the finders and the keepers — those who are aware of and who cherish this holy, abundant blessing." Overcoming stress, maintaining a sense of humor, remembering our blessings, feeling gratitude — these are just some of the paths to happiness discussed in this delightful book. Warm personal stories and solid insights from the scriptures and the words of Church leaders help shape our perspective. The message is one of hope: There are things we can do and feel that will make us almost instantly happier. As Mary Ellen says: "May we remember that we already chose the great plan of happiness, but we need to choose it again, hour after hour and day after day, through all our earthly experiences. . . . If we will, we can live happily ever after!"

Bytheway, It's John: The Second Verse


John Bytheway - 1999
    Humorous skits, routines, verses, song parodies, impersonations, and one-liners aimed at LDS youth.

In the Strength of the Lord: The Life and Teachings of James E. Faust


James P. Bell - 1999
    Unlike most of our conversations, which deal with family updates and the like, he began this call with a rather firm declaration. "I know what your next book should be," he said. I had recently completed a book with two dear friends, the late Rex E. Lee and his wife, Janet-and I responded that I did not have plans to write another book. He continued, undeterred, "No, you need to write a biography of  James E. Faust." Though still half asleep, I knew immediately that he was right, but I asked him anyway why he would make this suggestion. His answer was simple: "Because he's a good man, and the members of the Church don't know enough about him." Not knowing President Faust, but feeling a need to act on my father's suggestion, I passed the idea along to Sheri Dew, who is the vice-president of publishing at Deseret Book and a long-time friend. She, in turn, discussed it with Ron Millett, president of Deseret Book, and the two of them arranged to meet with President Faust and discuss the idea with him. He listened politely and said he would consider their proposal and then let them know of his decision. Having read, some months later, his journal entry for that day, I know that his initial reaction was a preference that such a book not be done. But after several weeks of discussion with his wife, family members, and a few close associates, he informed Ron and Sheri that he would agree to have a book done-but with two conditions: First, that the biography be brief; and, second,  that a selection of his teachings be included in the same volume.

The Story of Christianity: The Early Church to the Present Day


Justo L. González - 1999
    This highly acclaimed text provides a vivid introduction to Christian history, from the apostolic church to the present day. Gonzalez skillfully weaves in relevant details from the lives of prominent figures, tracing out core theological developments as reflected in the lives of leading thinkers within various church traditions. Especially careful attention is given to Christian expansion into Central and South America during the early modern period. 880 pages, from Prince Press.

The Princess Within: Restoring the Soul of a Woman


Serita Ann Jakes - 1999
    Her words resonate with those who feel trapped, but who long to be restored as the "princesses" God created them to be. As she shares her life experiences, Serita's insights and encouragement will surround readers with hope, giving them the courage and strength to break free and experience wholeness in Christ.

Visioneering: God's Blueprint for Developing and Maintaining Personal Vision


Andy Stanley - 1999
    A destination. Vision always stands in contrast to the world as it is. Visioneering, according to bestselling author Andy Stanley, is “a clear mental picture of what could be, fueled by the conviction that it should be.” With warm, down-to-earth practicality, Andy Stanley explores the ordinary life of Nehemiah and his God-given vision for accomplishing the extraordinary. He shows how the life of this great ancient visionary, determined to rebuild the ruined walls of Jerusalem, reveals principles that can prepare us to find and follow God’s multifaceted vision for our own lives. Now this bestseller is again available in an attractive, affordable paperback!Everybody ends up somewhere in life. You can end up somewhere on purpose! Visioneering is the engineering of a vision. It’s the process one follows to develop and maintain vision. “Vision,” writes Andy Stanley , “is a clear mental picture of what could be, fueled by the conviction that it should be.” In the bestselling Visioneering, Stanley builds a compelling case for the necessity of a clear, God-ordained vision for each of the roles of your life. Whether you’re a parent with a vision for your children or a CEO pursuing a corporate vision, Visioneering is the perfect tool to help you develop and maintain God’s unique purpose for your life. “Visioneering is the best book on vision I’ve seen. It will put you on track to discovering God’s purpose for your life. In my course “The Vision of the Leader,” I quote from Andy’s book more than any other. Visioneering should be on the bookshelf of every pastor, business leader, and parent in America . I heartily endorse it!” —Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, Chairman, Dream for Africa Story Behind the BookAndy Stanley, the pastor of more than 15,000, knows a lot of people, and is well aware of the overwhelming and mutual desire nearly every Christian holds to find and fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. This book was written to stir these hearts and move people forward by providing tangible steps to getting from Point A to Point B. “As Christians,” states Stanley, “we do not have a right to take our talents, abilities, experiences, opportunities, and education and run off in any direction we please.” This book was written to provide a specific plan for going in the right direction. It truly is “God’s blueprint for developing and maintaining personal vision.”

Witness to the Martyrdom: John Taylor's Personal Account of the Last Days of the Prophet Joseph Smith


John Taylor - 1999
    Smith and Wilford Woodruff. This compilation is unique because it helps put Taylor's testimony into perspective, with:* a summary of early events in John Taylor's life* a discussion of the events immediately following the Martyrdom* a brief outline of Taylor's later life, including his service as third president of the Church.

Life Overflowing: 6 Pillars for Abundant Living


T.D. Jakes - 1999
    This title contains six books in one volume.

Spirit Empowered Preaching: Involve the Holy Spirit in Your Ministry


Arturo G. Azurdia III - 1999
    Careful, meditative and painstaking exegesis brings a potential liability, that of losing the vitality, which must accompany exposition.The Puritans called it 'that certain unction', Martyn Lloyd-Jones called it 'an access of power', others have called it 'the anointing'. If you desire that your preaching be lifted up to a position in which you are being used by the Spirit as a channel, then Arturo Azurdia can help you.The insights in this book are gained from Art's careful study and practical experiences of being used by the Holy Spirit in his ministry.

The Art of God


Ric Ergenbright - 1999
    Ric's award-winning photographic talent is combined with Scripture and devotional thoughts to move both the heart and the mind. Included with the full-color photographs is information about the various locations, natural formations, and elements of the scenes. Ric Ergenbright's photography appears regularly in major magazines, books, and ads. More than 60 calendars of his images have been published, and his work has been the subject of three television shows. He is a winner of the Lowell Thomas Award for outstanding travel photography, and is among the small number of contemporary photographers represented in "Odyssey: The Art of Photography at National Geographic," now touring the world.

One More Strain of Praise


Neal A. Maxwell - 1999
    He observes that this book "blends the autobiographical and the doctrinal."both the title of the book itself and those of the individual chapters come from the words of a well-known hymn. The author's counsels and comments reflect his experiences and perceptions in the light of the challenges set by his malady and of the appropriate gospel concepts. Thus he early observes that irony, "the hard crust on the bread of adversity," can try both our faith and our patience. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, is central to the book as He is to the plan of salvation. "Multiple revelations teach us that redeeming Jesus is uniquely our 'advocate with the Father,' that He pleads for us, and that He makes intercession for us....Without this grand reality we would be helpless, and all would be truly and finally hopeless."But the guarantees are in place. "He can succor us in any form of the human condition because, as He reminded Joseph in the Liberty Jail: "The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?' No person, therefore, who comes before Him can exclaim, "You don't understand what I have been through!'"The author further explains: "Of course, the Father knew beforehand of all human wickedness. He knew beforehand of mankind's need of a Savior....Mortal sins previously committed and those yet to be committed were atoned for retroactively and prospectively in Gethsemane and on Calvary. For us of the last dispensation, it was 'paid in advance,' as it were."The last chapter recalls examples of Elder Maxwell's "intertwinings," many of them "kindred spirit" friendships. They range from boyhood school days and wartime army service all the way up to General Authority associations. This chapter is a fitting end to a book that is replete with uplifting gospel thoughts that will unfailingly instruct and edify the reader.Note: Description comes from the original version's book jacket and not Amazon.

Dealing with the Rejection and Praise of Man


Bob Sorge - 1999
    Equally harmful, the praise of man is also a snare, capable of disqualifying God's servants from their highest inheritance. Bob Sorge reveals in this brief book how the truths that set us free from both extremes are amazingly similar.This book answers some crucial questions which grip virtually every believer: What do I do when others demean or hurt me? And how should I respond when others honor or compliment me?Rejection and praise are like twin gullies that flank the narrow highway of holiness. Every step counts. For Jesus, man's opinions were meaningless in light of the exuberant affection and passionate approval of His Father.Let God's truth set you free from the power of rejection's woundings and from the entrapment of man's praises. Learn how to hold your heart before God in a way that pleases Him in the midst of both rejection and praise from people.

This Our Exile: A Spiritual Journey with the Refugees of East Africa


James Martin - 1999
    His mission was straightforward: to help the refugees who had settled in the sprawling slums of Nairobi, Kenya, to begin small businesses and earn a living. He imagined that he would be teaching them much, and he did. But the Kenyans and refugees with whom the author worked - from Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia - would end up teaching him much more about life, about survival and faith, and about love and friendship.

Written That You May Believe: Encountering Jesus in the Fourth Gospel


Sandra M. Schneiders - 1999
    Scholars have hailed its publication and dedicated a session at the American Academy of Religion to discuss its message. Lay readers have welcomed it as a companion in opening up the meaning of the Fourth Gospel, and small groups have begun using it as a guide in their devotional reading. This revised edition, enriched with new chapters from Sandra Schneiders and a study guide prepared by John C. Wronski offers new ways to nourish faith through the rich symbolism of the Gospel of John and an invitation to "dwell in" the liberating truth of Jesus.

The Heart Is a Little to the Left: Essays on Public Morality


William Sloane Coffin - 1999
    William Sloane Coffin offers an antidote to the politics of the religious right with a call to passive intellectuals and dispirited liberals to reenter the fray with a Christian view of social justice.

Reformed Confessions Harmonized


Joel R. Beeke - 1999
    It should be welcomed by historians and theologians who are interested in the Reformed tradition."—I. John Hesselink, Sixteenth Century Journal Despite the acknowledged importance of confessional statements throughout church history, the most significant of these documents have never before been published in a single volume. Now Drs. Beeke and Ferguson have harmonized seven important Reformed confessions into a convenient parallel arrangement. The seven confessions were produced by three different strands among the European churches. From the Dutch-German reformers came the Belgic Confession of Faith (1561), the Heidelberg Catechism (1563), and the Canons of Dort (1618-19). The Swiss churches contributed the Second Helvetic Confession (1566). And the Scottish-English tradition was set down in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646-47) and the Larger and Shorter Westminster Catechisms (1647). The unique feature of this volume is the editors' arrangement of the various confessions in parallel columns under the traditional subject headings of systematic theology. Readers can compare the formulations on particular points of doctrine, such as the trinity, justification, Christian liberty, and baptism. While elaborating the differences that existed between the various national churches, the comparisons also underscore the fundamental unity regarding the basic tenets of the faith. This confessional harmony is further enhanced by the editors' historical introduction to the subject. They also provide an extensive annotated bibliography of Reformed theological writings that will serve as a useful guide for readers who desire to undertake further study. In all, this is an important resource for students and pastors interested in the historical foundations of the Reformed tradition.

Fine Old High Priests


Donald S. Smurthwaite - 1999
    

The Awesome Power Of Married Love


Truman G. Madsen - 1999
    Madsen demonstrates that the gospel’s timeless principles offer solutions to present-day problems between husbands and wives. Brother Madsen uses his gift of pairing concepts with powerful illustrations to make the ideas he presents applicable to a broad range of listeners. Full of insights— leavened by a generous portion of humor—this tape explores the heights and depths of “the awesome power of married love.”

May Christ Lift Thee Up: Talks from the 1998 Women's Conference Sponsored by Brigham Young University and the Relief Society


Brigham Young University - 1999
    

Hope: An Anchor to the Soul


S. Michael Wilcox - 1999
    Michael

Ten Secrets for Achieving a Successful Celestial Marriage


Laura Nielson Denke - 1999
    is not about what's wrong with your marriage. Instead Laura Nielson Denke outlines ten classic principles that, when followed, will guarantee marital happiness. Written in conversational style, the book holds your attention as you follow a couple through the ups and downs of learning how to improve their marriage. The quick read will inspire and give you the tools you need no matter what level your marriage is at. Whether you're having problems or you just want to improve your relationship, this book offers a plethora of ideas and practical exercises. The Secrets... is about action-changes that you can make in your marriage to create the relationship you always dreamed of.

Rachel's Cry: Prayer of Lament and Rebirth of Hope


Kathleen D. Billman - 1999
    This book is rich of consolations because it takes the cry of lament seriously."" --Jurgen Moltmann ""A timely, accessible, and valuable book. The recovery of the biblical traditions of loss and hurt is intrinsically worth doing, more worth doing in an increasingly disestablished society."" --Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary, Emeritus ""This cross-disciplinary collaboration is . . . poignant and compelling testimony to the personal and communal power of lament and its importance to the practice of ministry. This book is the one that I have been waiting for."" --Christie Cozad Neuger, Brite Divinity School ""Few books in the literature of lament have drawn together so much material from the biblical, theological, and pastoral spheres as Rachel's Cry."" --Patrick D. Miller, Princeton Theological Seminary ""Honesty with God is the doorway to authentic hope and faith. . . . This is one of the most liberating books I have read in a long time."" --James Newton Poling, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary ""This is the first book to bring scattered discussions together into one coherent whole . . . with deep Christian insight and conviction, with vivid examples, and with learning which is as gracefully communicated as it is broad and deep in its substance. I will be keeping it near at hand, so as to return to it often."" --Nicholas Wolterstorff, Yale University ""Rachel's Cry is not only a timely book, it is an urgently needed resource for people who long for a way to live with irrational suffering. Unless we recover the prayer of lament, we are in danger of being trapped in powerlessness, cynicism, and despair."" --Herbert Anderson, Catholic Theological Union, Emeritus ""I found it difficult to put this book down. Rachel's Cry convincingly argues that an authentic and empowering spirituality requires the language of lament and protest alongside praise and thanksgiving."" --Nancy J. Ramsay, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary Kathleen M. Billman is dean of academic affairs and professor of pastoral theology and counseling at Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago. Daniel L. Migliore is Charles Hodge Professor of Systematic Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary.

A Passion for Holiness in a Believer's Life


Charles Haddon Spurgeon - 1999
    With results unparalleled in England since the days of Whitefield and Wesley, Spurgeon's nearly four decades of ministry remain one of the greatest pastoral, evangelistic, social ministries ever seen.Lifted up by the reviving and quickening power of the Holy Spirit, Charles Spurgeon's life and effectiveness was clearly rooted in this: his deepest desire centered in living a life of God-honoring Christian holiness. Exalting his Savior in godly living and preaching the gospel with power were his one consuming passion. Spurgeon believed that true happiness could only be found when we are free from the power of sin, when the gospel has purified our lives and we have a deep desire for holiness.Personal holiness is dynamic, practical, available, and essential for every believer. Spurgeon's teaching will meet you where you live and help you discover the transforming power of the Holy Spirit in your inner life.

The Peter Martyr Reader


Pietro Martire Vermigli - 1999
    Chapters include Martyr's views on the scope of theology, the study of theology, the authority of scripture, human nature, human happiness, the knowledge of God, the person of Christ, justification and faith, the Lord's Supper, views on music and songs, predestination, free will, providence, moral virtue, civil magistrates, and prayer.

Personal Purity and Intimacy


Wendy L. Nelson - 1999
    A marriage and family therapist delivers a talk on marital intimacy and discusses her belief that all personal relationships are defined by the quality of our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Principles of Priesthood Leadership


Stephen D. Nadauld - 1999
    In Principles of Priesthood Leadership, respected Church leader and experienced teacher Stephen D. Nadauld describes those characteristics and principles that will shape effective leaders. Specifically, he describes those characteristics that differentiate leaders from managers. Chief among the responsibilities and capabilities of a good leader is understanding the plan of salvation and resolving to teach the plan to those over whom you preside. Likewise, Brother Nadauld explains, is the importance of ward and stake leaders fostering their relationships with the youth of the Church. In fact, he writes, a ward in which the youth are a bishop's first priority is a ward that excels. Full of valuable insight for leaders, Principles of Priesthood Leadership is certain to become a widely used reference and worthy leadership tool that will prove effective at all levels of Church leadership, from deacon's quorum adviser to bishopric to Primary president.

Celebrating The Seasons: Daily Spiritual Readings For The Christian Year


Robert Atwell - 1999
    Daily readings from Christian spiritual masters -- from Basil the Great to Evelyn Underhill -- for devotional use all year long.

The Educating Icon: Teaching Wisdom and Holiness


Anton C. Vrame - 1999
    Through "iconic catechesis" each person is nurtured to grow into the likeness of God. With color plates.

Latter-Day Commentary on the Book of Mormon


K. Douglas Bassett - 1999
    

Jesus, Justice, and the Reign of God


William R. Herzog II - 1999
    He examines the conflict stories, exorcisms/healings, and the passion narrative to develop his thesis and, in the final chapter, he interprets the resurrection in light of this viewpoint.

The Quest for the Radical Middle


Bill Jackson - 1999
    An in-depth look at the history of one of the Vineyard, one of the fastest growing church movements in the last twenty years.

My Hope for the Church: Critical Encouragement for the Twenty-First Century


Bernard Häring - 1999
    In this challenging vision of the future, he addresses such concerns as the role of women in the Church, priestly celibacy, the pastoral care of divorced and remarried Catholics, the selection of bishops, and the function of the papacy. He also warns against current tendencies to restore a pre-Vatican II moral Theology wherein the obligations of the law are paramount.

Catching the Next Wave Book


Steven J. Goodwin - 1999
    This book identifies characteristics of healthy, growing congregations and the warning signs of congregational ill health, giving leaders strategies for revitalizing a congregation in need of direction. Visionary leadership, listening to the people, dealing with conflict, and developing a process for change are the key points outlined.

Treasures of Womanhood: Timeless Words of Faith and Inspiration


Susan Evans McCloud - 1999
    

Saved from Silence: Finding Women's Voice in Preaching


Mary Donovan Turner - 1999
    This book looks at the metaphor of voice, how women are moving to voice from silence, and how individuals can make themselves heard by those who don't want to hear.

Thomas Cranmer: Churchman and Scholar


Paul Ayris - 1999
    The scope of the various essays is wide, encompassing his intellectual relations with Erasmus and Luther, his period of ambassadorial service on the Continent, his remarkable command of the English language at one of the most important periods in its development as a vehicle for intellectualand religious debate, and his extensive redrafting of a new code of law in place of the old ecclesiastical canon law. NOTES AND QUERIESDr PAUL AYRIS is Director of Library Services at University College London; Dr DAVID SELWYN is Reader in Ecclesiastical History, University of Wales, Lampeter.

Paul, Judaism, and Judgment According to Deeds


Kent L. Yinger - 1999
    How can Paul say we will be saved by grace through faith, and also that we will be judged according to our deeds? Paul seemed to feel no theological tension in saying these two things, and this book explains why. The first in the English language to concentrate solely on judgment according to deeds in Paul, it takes account of recent discussions about Paul's theology and his relationship to Judaism.

A Spirituality of Perfection: Faith in Action in the Letter of James


Patrick J. Hartin - 1999
    In A Spirituality of Perfection Patrick Hartin differs from this approach by showing that the call for perfection" provides a unifying meaning for the epistle. Examining the concept of perfection against the background of the Graeco-Roman world, the Old Testament, and the Septuagint, Father Hartin shows that perfection provides a key to defining the spirituality of the Epistle of James.Father Hartin shows how the notion of perfection plays a key role in the definition of God, as well as the way one is called *to be in the world. - He adopts a fresh approach toward understanding the categories of wisdom, eschatology, and apocalyptic as they illuminate the epistle's advice. He allows James to be read in its own right, instead of through the eyes of other traditions, such asPaul, and shows that what James intends by perfection is different from our modern understanding - that the concept of perfection unlocks an important self-understanding in Christianity.Just as every generation of believers aims at putting its faith into action, A Spirituality of Perfection culminates with the question: *What direction does the Epistle of James give Christians of the twenty-first century for putting their faith into action? -Chapters are *A Cal to Perfection, - *An Overview of the Concept of Perfection in the Ancient World as a Background to the Letter of James, - *The Nature and Purpose of the Letter of James, - *Faith Perfected Through Works: A Context for the Moral Instructions in the Letter of James, - *A Spirituality of Authentic Perfection, - *Perfection in the Letter of James and the Sermon on the Mount, - and *On Reading James Today. -Patrick J. Hartin, DTh, teaches New Testament in the religious studies department at Gonzaga University in Spokane."

Herbs of the Bible 2000 Years of Plant Medicine


James A. Duke - 1999
    Herbs of the Bible is more than a scientific reference book, it is an entertaining and thought-provoking compendium that discusses the story of how humans have used herbs through the ages; a must-have book for anyone interested in herbs, the Bible, or the history of botanical medicine.

Promises Worth Keeping


David R. Mains - 1999
    The journal includes daily Scripture readings and thought-provoking questions as well as helpful follow-up steps that equip people to put into practice the sermons that you're preaching.

Rulers of Evil: Useful Knowledge about Governing Bodies


E. Tupper Saussy - 1999
    Tupper Saussy decided to investigate his adversary; i.e. the United States of America and, more specifically, his Jesuit-trained prosecutor. While he was avoiding his one-year sentence, he spent ten years researching the role that Roman Catholicism has played in the United States. What began as a personal inquiry blossomed into a full-scale reevaluation of our nation's early history.