Best of
Theology

2005

Holy Bible: Reformation Study Bible, ESV


Anonymous - 2005
    The fountainhead of that stream was William Tyndale's New Testament of 1526; marking its course King James Version of 1611 (KJV), the English Revised Version of 1885 (RV), the American Standard Version of 1901 (ASV), and the Revised Standard Version of 1952 and 1971 (RSV). In that stream, faithfulness to the text and vigorous pursuit of accuracy were combined with simplicity, beauty, and dignity of expression. Our goal has been to carry forward this legacy for a new century.During the Reformation, a renewed interest in Scripture brought great light to the church and the world. In The Reformation Study Bible, general editor R. C. Sproul aims to present the light of the Reformation anew by combining an accessible translation with study notes that stand firmly in the theological tradition of the Reformation.No other study Bible gives the reader more assistance in understanding the great doctrines and themes of the Christian faith as found in the Scriptures. Extensive notes have been researched and written by a team of more than fifty scholars, including J. I. Packer, James Boice, and Wayne Grudem.All Christians that want to dig deeper in their study of Scripture will appreciate the Bible’s many features, including section introductions, book introductions and outlines, comments on the biblical text, theological notes, charts, in-text maps, and cross-references.The first study bible based on the English Standard Version, The Reformation Study Bible is the perfect choice for men and women that want to study God’s word in a language they can understand.

Compendium: Catechism of the Catholic Church


The Catholic Church - 2005
    Because of the book's format, parents, pastors, teachers, principals, and catechists have a unique opportunity to dialogue with the faithful, and reinvigorate the Church's ongoing mission of evangelization and catechesis. USCC

Family Worship: In the Bible, in History & in Your Home


Donald S. Whitney - 2005
    But as Donald S. Whitney makes clear, the daily worship of God by families at home is a practice rooted in the Bible and common throughout Christian history. How can people unfamiliar with family worship lead it in their own homes? How do busy households in today's culture recover faithfulness in family worship? This practical book shows you how simple and easy it can be.

God Is the Gospel: Meditations on God's Love as the Gift of Himself


John Piper - 2005
    2 Corinthians 4:6This book is a cry from the heart of John Piper. He is pleading that God himself, as revealed in Christ's death and resurrection, is the ultimate and greatest gift of the gospel.None of Christ's gospel deeds and none of our gospel blessings are good news except as means of seeing and savoring the glory of Christ. Forgiveness is good news because it opens the way to the enjoyment of God himself. Justification is good news because it wins access to the presence and pleasures of God himself. Eternal life is good news because it becomes the everlasting enjoyment of Christ.All God's gifts are loving only to the degree that they lead us to God himself. That is what God's love is: his commitment to do everything necessary (most painfully the death of his only Son) to enthrall us with what is most deeply and durably satisfying-namely, himself.Saturated with Scripture, centered on the cross, and seriously joyful, this book leads us to satisfaction for the deep hungers of the soul. It touches us at the root of life where practical transformation gets its daily power. It awakens our longing for Christ and opens our eyes to his beauty.Piper writes for the soul-thirsty who have turned away empty and in desperation from the mirage of methodology. He invites us to slow down and drink from a deeper spring. "This is eternal life," Jesus said, "that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." This is what makes the gospel-and this book-good news.

Her Gates Will Never Be Shut: Hell, Hope, and the New Jerusalem


Bradley Jersak - 2005
    Would the God of love revealed by Jesus really consign the vast majority of humankind to a destiny of eternal, conscious torment? Is divine mercy bound by the demands of justice? How can anyone presume to know who is saved from the flames and who is not? Reacting to presumptions in like manner, others write off the fiery images of final judgment altogether. If there is a God who loves us, then surely all are welcome into the heavenly kingdom, regardless of their beliefs or behaviors in this life. Yet, given the sheer volume of threat rhetoric in the Scriptures and the wickedness manifest in human history, the pop-universalism of our day sounds more like denial than hope. Mercy triumphs over judgment; it does not skirt it. Her Gates Will Never Be Shut endeavors to reconsider what the Bible and the Church have actually said about hell and hope, noting a breadth of real possibilities that undermines every presumption. The polyphony of perspectives on hell and hope offered by the prophets, apostles, and Jesus humble our obsessive need to harmonize every text into a neat theological system. But they open the door to the eternal hope found in Revelation 21-22: the City whose gates will never be shut; where the Spirit and Bride perpetually invite the thirsty who are outside the city to "Come, drink of the waters of life." Endorsements: "Who are the damned? Who are the saved? The questions have a way of provoking controversy, often quite heated. Brad Jersak, self-identified as an evangelical who accepts the Biblical witness as authoritative, turns the controversy into a conversation, a quiet conversation. He listens. He listens to opposing voices. He listens to Scripture as God's last word on the subject. He listens to the scholars and theologians. Out of the listening something like a 'humility of hope' (Jersak's phrase) begins to replace dogmatisms and we find ourselves part of a conversation with Christian brothers and sisters who are seriously praying for the world's salvation." --Eugene H. Peterson author of Tell It Slant: A Conversation on the Language of Jesus in His Stories and Prayers "Deeply grounded in evangelical faith and committed to evangelical categories of theological interpretation, Jersak probes the meaning of 'Final Judgment' in Christian faith and tradition. The phrase, for Jersak, must be kept in quote marks, because he sees that what is 'final' is not 'judgment' but the openness of God. The book traces the way in which Christians, and the author, 'exchange certainty for hope.' In the end the residue of evil will not have the last word; what prevails is the goodness of God's love. Readers will be greatly instructed by this thoughtful book." --Walter Brueggemann author of Divine Presence Amid Violence (Cascade, 2009) "Combining theological rigor and pastoral sensitivity Her Gates Will Never Be Shut is sure to push the boundaries of the contemporary theological landscape and expand the theological horizons of scholars, pastors, and lay Christians alike. Grounded, timely, and open--this is evangelical theology at its best." --Jon Stanley co-editor of "God is Dead" and I Don't Feel so Good Myself: Theological Engagements with the New Atheism (Cascade, 2009) About the Contributor(s): Bradley Jersak is an author and seminar speaker based in Abbotsford, British Columbia. He is the author of Can You Hear Me? (2003), Kissing the Leper (2006), and co-editor of Stricken by God? (2007).

What Christians Believe


C.S. Lewis - 2005
    S. Lewis here tackles the central questions of the Christian faith: Who was Jesus? What did he accomplish? What does it mean for me?In these classic essays, which began as talks on the BBC during World War II, Lewis creatively and simply explains the basic tenets of Christianity. Taken from the core section of Mere Christianity, the selection in this gift edition provides an accessible way for more people to discover these timeless truths. For those looking to remind themselves of the things they hold true, or those looking for a snapshot of Christianity, this book is a wonderful introduction to the faith.

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church


The Catholic Church - 2005
    It is divided into five sections, an introduction, three parts, and a conclusion entitled For a Civilization of Love. The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church is a must-have resource for leaders of social ministry at the diocesan and parish level as well as those in religious education, school, and youth and young adult ministry.

The Radical Cross: Living the Passion of Christ


A.W. Tozer - 2005
    This compilation of Tozer's essays on the cross of Christ takes an in-depth look at the many meanings of the cross.

1 Peter


Karen H. Jobes - 2005
    Jobes provides a fresh commentary on 1 Peter. 1 Peter admirably achieves the dual aims of the BECNT series--it is academically sophisticated as well as pastorally sensitive and accessible. This volume features Jobes's own translation of the Greek text and detailed interaction with the meaning of the text, emphasizing the need to read 1 Peter in light of its cultural background. Jobes's commentary will help pastors, students, and teachers better understand the Christian's role as a "foreigner" in contemporary society.

Taste and See: Savoring the Supremacy of God in All of Life


John Piper - 2005
    The new entries broach current and controversial subject matter, such as partial-birth abortion and gay marriage. Piper asks the hardest questions and finds wonderfully poignant but practical and applicable truths from the Bible. These 350 pages of substantive spiritual nourishment will brace readers’ minds with truth and nourish their hearts with God’s sovereign grace. Pastors and lay leaders particularly will appreciate the three indexes included. They don’t need to look any further to find a pertinent illustration or tidbit of inspiration! Expanded Edition of the Popular Godward Life II Devotional Taste and see…The Lord is good. Psalm 34:8 The soul tastes truth like the lips taste food. Spiritual hunger cries out for rich, substantial nourishment. It is remarkable how much meat these daily portions contain. Skillfully presented by pastor John Piper, this devotional of contemporary meditations on biblical reality will whet your appetite for more of God Himself and refresh you in your daily communion with Christ. “This volume is a treasure of true doctrine applied to life.” -R. Albert Mohler Jr., president, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary “Going to sleep with John Piper’s words on your mind will coax you from complacency and wake you up to a passionate faith.” -Phil Callaway, speaker and bestselling author Story Behind the BookJohn Piper’s life-long love affair with his church is evidenced in each of the 140 articles included in Taste and See. Originally, each article was written for his flock at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis . They are sometimes follow-ups to Sunday sermons; sometimes meditations of a pastor’s heart, expressing his longing for the holiness of his congregation. Many of the entries are his own relentless interrogations of a biblical text. A few are colorful anecdotes from a pastor’s daily life—a pastor whose heartbeat for God pulsates through every word.

Humility / Absolute Surrender


Andrew Murray - 2005
    If our hearts are willing for that, there is no end to what God will do for us, and to the blessings God will bestow."--from Absolute SurrenderGreatly concerned for the spiritual guidance of new converts, and for spiritual growth in long-time Christians, Murray penned some of the most enduring devotional classics of Christian literature. The two beloved works in this volume reflect Murray's longing for a deeper life in Christ and his prayer that others would long for and experience that life as well.Hendrickson Christian Classics is planned to include all the timeless books that generations of believers have treasured. Each volume in the series is freshly retypeset, while thoughtful new prefaces explore their spiritual and historical contexts. For contemporary readers, here is an essential library of Christian wisdom through the ages.

Ordinary Work, Extraordinary Grace: My Spiritual Journey in Opus Dei


Scott Hahn - 2005
    To its members, however, Opus Dei is a spiritual path, a way of incorporating the teachings of Jesus into everyday life. In Ordinary Work, Extraordinary Grace, Scott Hahn, a member of Opus Dei, describes the organization's founding, its mission, and its profound influence on his life.Hahn recounts the invaluable part Opus Dei played in his conversion from Evangelical Christianity to Catholicism and explains why its teachings remain at the center of his life. Through stories about his job, his marriage, his role as a parent, and his community activities, Hahn shows how Opus Dei's spirituality enriches the meaning of daily tasks and transforms ordinary relationships. He offers inspiring insights for reconciling spiritual and material goals, discussing topics ranging from ambition, workaholism, friendship, and sex, to the place of prayer and sacrifice in Christianity today.Engaging and enlightening, Ordinary Work, Extraordinary Grace is at once a moving personal story and an inspiring work of contemporary spirituality.

The Hebrew Yeshua Vs. the Greek Jesus: New Light on the Seat of Moses from Shem-Tov's Hebrew Matthew


Nehemia Gordon - 2005
    Yeshua of Nazareth was raised in an observant Jewish family in a culture where the Torah (five books of Moses) was the National Constitution. Yeshua's teachings, which supposedly form the basis for Western Christianity, are now filtered through 2000 years of traditions born in ignorance of the land, language, and culture of the Bible. The issues over which Yeshua wrestled with the Pharisees are simply not understood by modern Christians; nor are his most important instructions followed by those who claim to be his disciples. Former Pharisee, Nehemia Gordon, a Dead Sea Scrolls scholar and Semitic language expert, explores the ancient Hebrew text of the Gospel of Matthew from manuscripts long hidden away in the archives of Jewish scribes. Gordon's research reveals that the more "modern" Greek text of Matthew, from which the Western world's versions were translated, depicts "another Jesus" from the Yeshua portrayed in the ancient Hebrew version of Matthew. Gordon explains the life-and-death conflict Yeshua had with the Pharisees as they schemed to grab the reins of Judaism in the first century, and brings that conflict into perspective for both Jew and Christian alike.

Far as the Curse Is Found: The Covenant Story of Redemption


Michael D. Williams - 2005
    Instead, it is the historical unfolding of God’s covenantal involvement in this world, the culmination of which is God’s coming into this world in the person of Jesus Christ.Far as the Curse if Found is a retelling of the biblical story of God’s unfolding covenant from creation to new creation. Readers are led to wonder anew at the redemptive work of God in our own history, in our own human flesh. Pastors, students, and those interested in biblical theology are among the many that will gain fresh insight into the biblical story of redemption.

The Fire and the Staff: Lutheran Theology in Practice


Klemet I. Preus - 2005
    H. C. Fritz and C. F. W. Walther of fine works on practical ministry- Shows pastors how to carry out ministry on the basis of confessionally Lutheran theological principles- Stories and personal experience lend immediacy to the discussion- Unique in its presentation and content

Restoration: Returning the Torah of God to the Disciples of Jesus


D. Thomas Lancaster - 2005
    Restoration is a riveting argument for a return to that original biblical expression of faith in Jesus. Discover for yourself the profound beauty of Torah life, the celebration of the biblical Sabbath, and the application of God's holy feast days. Your eyes will be opened to another dimension of the faith that is beginning to reemerge among Christians worldwide. Lancaster answers common theological objections to the Torah, while demonstrating that Christians are already keeping more of God's Law than they realize. This thought provoking, theological boat-rocker is a fun-to-read inspiring journey into the world of the Bible.

A Sacred Sorrow: Reaching Out to God in the Lost Language of Lament


Michael Card - 2005
    But many of us don't feel right expressing our anger, frustration, and sadness in prayer.From Job to David to Christ, men and women of the Bible understood the importance of pouring one's heart out to the Father. Examine their stories and expand your definition of worship.

Isaiah: God Saves Sinners


Raymond C. Ortlund Jr. - 2005
    A passionate expositional commentary, Isaiah is a valuable resource for pastors, teachers, and personal Bible study.

Henri Nouwen: Wounded Healer (Spirituality)


William Ruddle - 2005
    And yet it is this which can allow us to know the grace of God most powerfully. This study explores why Henri Nouwen is, perhaps, the modern writer who has done most to confront the question of woundedness. In doing so his work brings us face to face with Jesus the wounded healer and can release new depths of grace in the reader's life

Coming Soon: Unlocking the Book of Revelation and Applying Its Lessons Today


Michael Barber - 2005
    In the midst of so much discussion about the end times, what does Revelation teach us about living in the present moment, with our eyes focused on the heavenly Jerusalem? Michael Barber's Coming Soon explores these questions by taking a detailed look at Revelation and its rich tapestry of prophecy, history, and biblical allusion. Barber explores the profound link between the Mass celebrated here on earth and the eternal reality of heaven, demonstrating that the Apocalypse reveals truth that has practical implications for today and points to a firm hope in tomorrow. Coming Soon is a verse-by-verse commentary on the Book of Revelation using the Revised Standard Version: Catholic Edition of the Bible. Barber provides a Catholic interpretation, which sees the liturgical background of this book of Scripture-a perspective missing in many Protestant commentaries.

The Heart Of Christ


Thomas Goodwin - 2005
    It is a fine example of his Christ- centredness and his mix of theological rigour and pastoral concern. In it he aims to show from Scripture that, in all his heavenly majesty, Christ is not now aloof from believers and unconcerned, but has the strongest affections for them.Goodwin begins with the beautiful assurances given by Christ to his disciples, taking as an example of that love Christ’s washing of his disciples’ feet (John 13). The heart of his argument, however, lies in his exposition of Hebrews 4:15, in which Goodwin shows that in all his glorious holiness in heaven, Christ is not sour towards his people; if anything, his capacious heart beats more strongly than ever with tender love for them. And in particular, two things stir his compassion: our afflictions and—almost unbelievably—our sins.How we need Goodwin and his message today! If we are to be drawn from jaded, anxious thoughts of God and a love of sin, we need such a knowledge of Christ.

Covenant Theology: From Adam to Christ


Nehemiah Coxe - 2005
    It amply displays the fact that seventeenth century Particular Baptists fit within the broader Covenant Theology of that day.

The Untold Story of the New Testament Church: An Extraordinary Guide to Understanding the New Testament


Frank Viola - 2005
    A major reason is because it is not arranged in chronological order. Paul's letters, for example, are arranged by size rather than chronologically. This makes the New Testament a bit like a Chinese puzzle! For this reason, one famous Bible scholar said that reading the New Testament letters is like hearing one end of a phone conversation. The book you hold in your hands reconstructs the other end so that you can understand virtually every word."The Untold Story of the New Testament Church" is a unique Bible handbook that weaves Acts and the Epistles together chronologically . . . creating one fluid story. This epic volume gives readers a first-hand account of the New Testament drama that is riveting and enlightening. It includes dates, maps, and background information about the people, the cities, and the events of the first-century church using a "you-are-there" approach.Get up-close and personal with apostles Paul, Peter, James and John and learn of their personal struggles. Understand the circumstances behind each inspired letter they penned. Watch the chaotic swirl of first-century people and events fall into place before your very eyes. Discover what Paul's "thorn in the flesh" really was. Learn what happened to all the apostles after the book of Acts was finished. Be ushered into the living, breathing atmosphere of the first century and uncover the hidden riches found in God's Word.

Understanding God's Word: An Apostolic Approach to Interpreting the Bible


David K. Bernard - 2005
    

Orthodox Psychotherapy


Hierotheos Vlachos - 2005
    

The End of Religion: Encountering the Subversive Spirituality of Jesus


Bruxy Cavey - 2005
    Believers and seekers alike will discover anew the wondrous promise found in our savior. And Christ's eternal call to walk in love and freedom will resonate with readers of all ages and denominations.

Christ, the Life of the Soul


Columba Marmion - 2005
    Firmly rooted in the Bible, the Liturgy, and the writings of the Saints and Doctors of the Church, Marmion explores every aspect of Catholic dogma — with penetrating insight — but his great emphasis is on the person of Christ,and the doctrine of Divine Adoption. Written for Christians in every walk of life, here are pages of practical knowledge and timeless wisdom -- a "how to" guide filled with rich insight, spiritual refreshment, inspiration and encouragement.

Esther & Ruth


Iain M. Duguid - 2005
    Yet a closer reading shows a gracious and sovereign God at work, one who uses obviously flawed people—unable even to help themselves—to rescue his people and prepare for the coming of Christ.

I Want to Live These Days with You: A Year of Daily Devotions


Dietrich Bonhoeffer - 2005
    Organized under monthly themes, these prayers, sermons, meditations, letters, and notes offer readers a new glimpse at how Bonhoeffer understood the meaning of faith and discipleship. Featuring selections from classic works such as The Cost of Discipleship and Letters and Papers from Prison, this set of writings follows the church year, making it ideal for year-long devotional use by readers seeking to be challenged and enlightened by Bonhoeffer's call to find God at the center of their lives.

The Message of the Old Testament: Promises Made


Mark Dever - 2005
    Below its somewhat obscure surface is hidden magnificent truth about the love and power of God. Throughout its pages the reader can find promise after promise from God, all of which are fulfilled in the New Testament-in the incarnation of Jesus Christ.Author Mark Dever introduces readers to the Old Testament as a glorious whole so that they are able to see the big picture of the majesty of God and the wonder of his promises.

Faithful God: An Exposition of the Book of Ruth


Sinclair B. Ferguson - 2005
    

Seeking the Face of God: Nine Reflections on the Psalms


D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones - 2005
    -Psalm 27:4, KJVThe Psalms are treasures from those who earnestly sought the face of God. They are honest messages of sorrow, joy, praise, and wisdom from real people who experienced real struggles. In the psalmists' words we see their hearts open before God.In Seeking the Face of God, Martyn Lloyd-Jones unpacks nine passages from the Psalms and weaves them together with the everyday life of the world in which we live. His reflections are practical, powerful, and profound.For those just beginning to study the Psalms as well as those who know them well and wish to consider them from a new angle, this collection of sermons from one of the greatest preachers of the twentieth century will move your mind to greater understanding and your heart to deeper worship.

NIV, The Case for the Resurrection, Paperback: A First-Century Investigative Reporter Probes History's Pivotal Event


Lee Strobel - 2005
    Whether you’re a pastor, layperson, student, parent, or grandparent … leading up to the Easter holiday season is a time when millions of people are looking for engaging ways to bring the Easter story to life. The Case for the Resurrection is designed to help meet your needs by providing a compact, low-priced booklet with new evidence from Lee Strobel that shines a fresh light on the Bible’s most important story—the resurrection. Featuring free NIV sample material from Strobel’s new The Case for Christ Study Bible, the Easter story from the book of Luke with all study notes from The Case for Christ Study Bible linking into the story, and the most-read, most-trusted NIV Scripture text … this small but powerful booklet will become required Easter reading for you year after year.

The Little Book of Biblical Justice: A Fresh Approach to the Bible's Teaching on Justice (The Little Books of Justice and Peacebuilding Series) (Little Books of Justice & Peacebuilding)


Christopher D. Marshall - 2005
    Little Book Of Biblical Justice is a Good Books publication.

Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know


Wayne Grudem - 2005
    Theology is important because what we believe affects how we live. Whether you're a relatively new believer in Jesus or a mature Christian looking for a better understanding of basics of the faith, Christian Beliefs is for you. This readable guide to twenty basic Christian beliefs is a condensation of Wayne Grudem’s award-winning book Systematic Theology, prized by pastors and teachers everywhere. He and his son, Elliot, have boiled down the essentials of Christian theology for the layperson and made them both clear and applicable to life. You will learn about the Bible, the characteristics of God, what it means that we are created in the image of God, what God has done for us in Christ, the purpose of the church, and much more. Each chapter includes questions for personal review or group discussion. "These truly are twenty basic beliefs that every Christian should know. Wayne Grudem is a master teacher with the ability to explain profound truths in simple language. He is a man of deep conviction and theological passion--and those who read this book will be both educated and encouraged in the faith."--R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky Based on Systematic Theology, this summary will certainly help beginners with Christ to get the hang of their faith."--J. I. Packer, Regent College, Vancouver, British Columbia As Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology contracts into a compact book, I do not lose my enthusiasm for the truth he loves and the clarity of his words."--John Piper, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Befriending the Stranger


Jean Vanier - 2005
    In six meditative pieces based on Scripture, he opens up God's invitation to us today to create new places of belonging and sharing, of peace and kindness, where each person is loved and accepted. The renewal of the church and the unity of Jesus' followers will come, writes Vanier, as we serve and befriend the poor and unwanted of our societies, and as we learn to live with our own poverty and loneliness.Originally given at a retreat for people who assist those with disabilities, Vanier's reflections are for all who seek to live out God's love.

Ephesians


Sinclair B. Ferguson - 2005
    In its opening doxology blessings cascade down upon the reader. In its closing verses the smell of the battlefield lies heavily in the air and through the smoke of war we see Christians, fully clad in the armour of spiritual warfare, still standing. From beginning to end Ephesians sets before us the wonder of God's grace, the privilege of belonging to the church, and the pattern of life-transformation the gospel produces. In Let's Study Ephesians Sinclair Ferguson skillfully leads us through this wonderful letter, explaining its teaching with masterful simplicity and showing its importance and relevance to the church today.

Let's Start with Jesus: A New Way of Doing Theology


Dennis F. Kinlaw - 2005
    From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” (John 14:7)Jesus is the great stumbling block of faith. It is in him that Christianity finds its uniqueness among the religions of the world. He is the Incarnate Son of God, the unique revelation of the Father. Yet so often, we begin the process of theological formulation not with the person of Jesus, but rather, with philosophical arguments about God’s existence and logical constructions to determine God’s nature.How would our understanding be affected if we instead took Jesus as our starting point for doing theology? In Let’s Start with Jesus, respected biblical scholar Dennis Kinlaw explores this question, revealing answers that are profound. In seeking to describe the nature of the relationship God desires with us, he explores three metaphors—royal/legal, familial, and nuptial—which serve as motifs for his reflection. Taking familiar theological categories, Kinlaw views them through the primary lens of the person and work of Jesus, and finds that Jesus reveals rich pictures of the nature of God, the nature of personhood, the problem of sin, the way of salvation, and finally, the means of sanctification via perfect love. The distilled wisdom of one of this generation’s greatest thinkers. Dr. Kinlaw leads you deep into the inner sanctuary of the Holy Trinity and shows you three distinct persons relating to each other in pure reciprocal love.—Robert E. Coleman, Distinguished Professor of Evangelism and Discipleship, Gordon-Conwell Theological SeminaryEvery time I read something written by Dennis Kinlaw my mind is stimulated and my heart strangely warmed. Let’s Start with Jesus is another important book from a truly gifted man.—Lyle W. Dorsett, Billy Graham Professor of Evangelism, Beeson Divinity School, Samford UniversityKinlaw’s revolutionary approach to doing theology is much more than that—it’s a revolutionary approach to life. Kinlaw locates ultimate purpose in a place the church has almost totally neglected, and he does so graciously, with powerful, tightly reasoned biblical argumentation.

Speaking Truth in Love: Counsel in Community


David A. Powlison - 2005
    No wonder God has so much to say about our words. We are all counselors, whether we realize it or not! Speaking Truth in Love is a blueprint for communication that strengthens community in Christ. The principles outlined in this pivotal work are specific to counseling, yet extend to marriage, family, friendship, business and the church. ? Have you ever wondered how to be a more effective counselor? ? Have you ever looked for a better way to talk to difficult people? ? Have you ever wanted to express faith and love more naturally in your relationships? Practical in its approach yet comprehensive in its scope, Speaking Truth in Love is sure to become required reading for anyone interested in pursuing a career as a counselor or anyone else who longs for ways to redeem relationships.

The Separation of Church & Faith Volume One: Copernicus and the Jews


Dan Gruber - 2005
    

What Every Christian Ought to Know: Essential Truths for Growing Your Faith


Adrian Rogers - 2005
    Without these essentials—the basic truths of the faith—they will never establish strong roots or bear fruit. Adrian Rogers has written a book designed to give new believers the nurture and care their faith needs to blossom and grow. What Every Christian Ought to Know seeks to give intellectual truth, and also to provide the “spiritual nutrients” required to produce mature faith.

The Way of the Master for Kids: Teaching Kids How to Share Their Faith


Kirk Cameron - 2005
     Written for two age groups, this title should be part of every home and church. The book’s first part gives 3- to 5-year-olds an understanding of God’s love for them. The second part, for 6- to 10-year-olds, explains how we can know that God is real, who made God, why the Bible is true, how we can know that people didn’t come from apes, and why bad things happen. In addition, the book teaches children how to memorize the Ten Commandments in just five minutes, and helps them understand why they need Jesus, enabling them to reach their friends for Christ.

Living Without Hypocrisy: Spiritual Counsels of the Holy Elders of Optina


Optina Elders - 2005
    Each piece of advice varies in length from a single sentence to a full paragraph. Pithy, immediately accessible, and universally applicable, these counsels resemble the sayings of the ancient Desert Fathers. Appropriate both for prolonged study and for daily devotional reading.

The Doors of the Sea: Where Was God in the Tsunami?


David Bentley Hart - 2005
    Expanding on his Wall Street Journal piece, Tremors of Doubt, published the last day of 2004, David Bentley Hart here returns to this pressing question: How can the existence of a good and loving God be reconciled with such suffering? Hart clarifies the biblical account of God's goodness, the nature of evil, and the shape of redemption, incisively revealing where both Christianity's champions and its critics misrepresent what is most essential to Christian belief. Though he responds to those skeptical of Christian faith, Hart is at his most perceptive and provocative as he examines Christian attempts to rationalize the tsunami disaster. Many people want a divine plan that will make sense of evil. Hart contends, however, that the history of suffering and death is not willed by God. Rather than appealing to a divine calculus that can account for every instance of suffering, Christians must recognize the ongoing struggle between the rebellious powers that enslave the world and the God who loves it. This meditation by a brilliant young theologian will deeply challenge serious readers grappling with God's ways in a suffering world."

The Navarre Bible: The Letters of Saint Paul


University of Navarra - 2005
    These are: Romans and Galatians, Corinthians, Captivity Letters (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon), and Thessalonians and Pastoral Letters – all the texts directly attributed to St. Paul. Like the Gospels and Acts, this edition contains these New Testament books and commentary in one convenient volume. Contents Preface and Preliminary Notes Abbreviations Introduction to the Letters of St. Paul Introduction to St. Paul's Letters to the Galatians and the Romans The Letter of Paul to the Romans:  English version, with notes The Letter of Paul to the Galatians:  English version, with notes Introduction to Paul's Letters to the Corinthians The First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians:  English version, with notes Introduction to the Second Letter to the Corinthians The Second Letter of Paul to the Corinthians:  English version with notes Introduction to the Captivity Letters Introduction to the Letter to the Ephesians The Letter of Paul to the Ephesians:  English version with notes Introduction to the Letter to the Philippians The Letter of Paul to the Philippians:  English version, notes Introduction to the Letter to the Colossians The Letter of Paul to the Colossians:  English version, with notes Introduction to the Letter to Philemon The Letter of Paul to Philemon:  English version, with notes Introduction to the Letters to the Thessalonians The First Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians:  English version, with notes The Second Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians:  English version, with notes Introduction to the Pastoral Letters Introduction to the First Letter to Timothy The First Letter of Paul to Timothy:

On the Way to Jesus Christ


Benedict XVI - 2005
    A series of meditations that Pope Benedict XVI wrote while he was Prefect for the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith provides a better understanding of the true Jesus, the Jesus of the Gospels, the Christ of Christianity.

Christ: The Ideal of the Priest


Columba Marmion - 2005
    Columba Marmion, wrote this classic work on the priesthood to show the holiness that priests are called to, and how that holiness can only be attained through close union with, and imitation of, Jesus Christ. While aimed at the clergy, this profound spiritual work will also be of immense inspiration for laity in coming to a deeper understanding of the true nature and calling of the priesthood.Echoing the thought and writing of St. Paul, Marmion stresses that the priestly life must be dominated by Christ and in constant dependence on His merits, His grace and His activity in the soul of the priest. In all his actions, in the sacred acts of worship, the administration of the sacraments, private prayer and devotions, and serving the various needs of his flock, Marmion says the priest must always see himself as the minister of the Savior, as Alter Christus.

Jerusalem Sinner Saved


John Bunyan - 2005
    After his conversion to Jesus Christ, he was constantly amazed by the fact that the God of infinite grace should have saved him from his sin. As a minister of the gospel, he loved to proclaim the grace of God to sinners and earnestly persuaded his hearers to embrace by faith the Lord Jesus Christ in whom is found the free pardon of all our sins.Published by Bunyan in the year of his death (1688), this little book brings together the fruit of his thinking on the grace of forgiveness. With the warmth and fervency of spirit of a true evangelist, he beautifully unfolds the riches of God's grace and mercy to the greatest of sinners. Here, as the subtitle of the book says, is 'Good News for the Vilest of Men'! 'I have been vile myself, but have obtained mercy; and I would have my companions in sin partake of mercy too: and, therefore, I have writ this little book.' John Bunyan

You Can Understand the Bible


Peter Kreeft - 2005
    But now popular author and Boston University professor Peter Kreeft has written a clear road map of the Bible, focusing his keen insight and engaging wit on the core message of each book. It won't take long for you to understand why his guide to scripture has become a best-seller! Sparkling with intelligence and Kreeft's trademark humor, You Can Understand the Bible will transform dry study into spiritually satisfying adventures in God's Word. Regardless of how you approached- or didn't approach- the Bible before, you'll come away with a new appreciation of its depth and meaning. Kreeft also provides practical guidance for praying the scriptures every day, allowing the reader to delve into the messages of scripture in a manner that will surprise, delight, and reward.

The Chronology of the Old Testament


Floyd Nolen Jones - 2005
    This biblically sound, scholarly, and easy-to-understand book will enlighten and astound its readers with solutions and alternatives to many questions Bible scholars have had over the centuries.

The Illness and Cure of the Soul in the Orthodox Tradition


Hierotheos Vlachos - 2005
    Hierotheos uses quotations from the Church Fathers and many saints to support his conviction that man's soul suffers illness which distorts his relationship with God, his fellow men and nature-to be curedin the hospital of the Church. Presented in the form of a discussion, the contents was used in a lecture series at the St. John of Damascus Faculty of Theology, University of Balamand.

A Year with Dietrich Bonhoeffer


Dietrich Bonhoeffer - 2005
    s/t: Daily Meditations from His Letters, Writings, and SermonsIn time for the 100th anniversary of his birth come daily inspirations from a beloved pastor, theologian, and martyr.

Poena Damni: Nyctivoe


Dimitris Lyacos - 2005
    This part recounts the staging of a verse play in a grim inner-city setting by an unusual company of actors. The work was later revised by Lyacos and called With the People from the Bridge.

Christ Altogether Lovely


John Flavel - 2005
    He was ordained as a Presbyterian at Salisbury in 1650 and was a minister in Devonshire. His ministry was mainly at Devon and Dartmouth. He was one of the ministers that were ejected in 1662. He then preached in his own home for ten years. He was instrumental in promoting the union of Presbyterians and Congregationalist in 1682.

The All-Sufficient God - Sermons on Isaiah 40 (Chapter 40)


D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones - 2005
    These mighty sermons from Isaiah chapter 40 bear this out, and in this they meet one of our greatest needs today to know our God as he really is. They show that the God of the Bible is not only the great Creator and Judge but the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort who meets us at the point of our deepest need. This all-sufficient God has already met and answered all our problems, doubts, and difficulties, in the gospel of his Son, Jesus Christ. Those hungering to know God-or to know him better-will find great help here, while those who have already tasted the rich gospel provision in earlier Lloyd-Jones titles on Old Testament themes such as God's Way Not Ours (on Isaiah 1) and Old Testament Evangelistic Sermons will need little urging to return for more!

Paedofaith


Rich Lusk - 2005
    What is the nature of such faith? From where does it come and what do the Scriptures have to say about it? How can anyone say that an infant has the capacity for faith? In this book, Rich Lusk answers these questions and more, giving hope to Christian parents that their little ones do indeed belong to Christ and have the capacity to trust him.

Dawn of the Messiah: The Coming of Christ in Scripture


Edward Sri - 2005
     We've heard the story so many times that it fails to shock us: the appearances of the angel, a virgin giving birth, a child placed in a manger, the arrival of shepherds and magi. "But what if we had never heard the story before?" Edward Sri asks. "What if we were first-century Jews hearing this plot for the first time?" Only two Gospels give any details about the birth of the Messiah, but these chapters are packed with allusions to Old Testament stories and prophecies that any contemporary Jew would have recognized. Today's reader, unfamiliar with the ancient Jewish world, misses the significance of many details in these accounts. This book bridges that gap, explaining the original context of every line and detail in the biblical stories. Sri not only helps us understand an earlier and pivotal time and place, he also brings us to a deeper understanding of the great mystery of God's entry into the world as one of us.

Captivation of the Will: Luther Vs. Erasmus on Freedom and Bondage


Gerhard O. Forde - 2005
    Highly esteemed Lutheran thinker Gerhard O. Forde cuts to the heart of the subject by reexamining the famous debate on the will between Luther and Erasmus. Following a substantial introduction by James A. Nestingen that brings to life the historical background of the debate, Forde thoroughly explores Luther's Bondage of the Will and the dispute between Erasmus and Luther that it reflects. In the process of exposing this debate's enduring significance for Christians, Forde highlights its central arguments about Scripture, God, the will, and salvation in Christ. Luther recognized that the only solution for humans bound by sin is the forgiveness that comes from Christ alone. Convinced that this insight represents the heart of the Christian gospel, Forde concludes with ten sermons that proclaim the message of salvation through Christ alone while elegantly relating theological inquiry to everyday life.

Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service


Stephen Seamands - 2005
    Thus we naturally pattern our ministries after Christ's example. But distinctively Christian service involves the Spirit as well, just as Jesus himself accomplished his ministry in the power of the Spirit. Thus the whole Trinity--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--gives shape to truly authentic Christian ministry.Though as Christians we all affirm the doctrine of the Trinity, many of us might struggle to explain how understanding the Trinity could actually shape our ministry. Stephen Seamands demonstrates how a fully orbed theology of the Trinity transforms our perception and practice of vocational ministry. Theological concepts like relationality and perichoresis have direct relevance to pastoral life and work, especially in unfolding a trinitarian approach to relationships, service and mission. A thoroughly trinitarian outlook provides the fuel for our ministry of Jesus Christ, to the Father, through the Holy Spirit, on behalf of the church and the world.Essential reading for pastors, parachurch workers, counselors, missionaries, youth ministers and all who are called to any vocation of Christian ministry.

Defending the Christian Worldview Against All Opposition


Greg L. Bahnsen - 2005
    Greg L. Bahnsen. Great for personal study or a class room setting. If you would like to be better equipped to defend the faith and share the gospel, then series is definitely for you. Series One is Weapons of Our Spiritual Warfare. In this 12-part audio series you'll discover that faith is not contrary to reason, facts are always interpreted, neutrality is not an option and that the unbeliever is really a "believer," and much more! Series Two is called Destroying All Speculations. In this 10-part audio series, Dr. Bahnsen will teach you how to spot arbitrary arguments, inconsistent arguments, logical fallacies, presuppositional tension, consequences of beliefs, objective proof of God's existence, the unscientific nature of evolution, and much more.Running Time, 1000 minutes

Night of the Confessor: Christian Faith in an Age of Uncertainty


Tomáš Halík - 2005
    He has lived through the political oppression and intolerance of religion that defined Communist Czechoslovakia, and he draws from this experience to remind readers that not only does crisis lead to deeper understanding but also that any living religion is a changing religion. The central messages of Christianity have always seemed impossible, from peace and forgiveness in the face of a harsh world to love and self-sacrifice despite human selfishness to the victory of resurrection through the defeat of the cross. Acceptance of paradox therefore is the way forward, Halík explains. It is a difficult way that offers an unclear immediate future, but it is ultimately the only honest way.

"The Way of the Master" Basic Training Course: Study Guide


Kirk Cameron - 2005
    Designed for use with “The Way of the Master” Basic Training Course, this comprehensive Study Guide includes discussion questions, in-class activities, and weekly homework assignments to gradually coax you, step-by-step, out of your comfort zone to reach family, friends, and strangers for Christ.One Study Guide is included in the “Basic Training Course”; order one additional Study Guide for each participant.

True Repentance (Vintage Puritan)


Thomas Boston - 2005
    This book along with Thomas Watson's 'The Doctrine of Repentance' are classic works on what repentance should look like in the life of the follower of Christ.

Preaching: How to Preach Biblically


John F. MacArthur Jr. - 2005
    In Preaching: How to Preach Biblically, John MacArthur’' well-known passion for the Bible combines with the expertise of faculty members at The Master's Seminary to inspire and equip preachers in effective biblical preaching.Preaching: How to Preach Biblically flows from biblical foundations for expository preaching through a detailed process of developing expositions and creating sermons to the actual delivery of expository messages, connecting what pastors learn in seminary with the sermons preached in a local church. This volume shows how to progress purposefully from one phase to the next in preparing to minister to God's people through preaching.This book answers these questions and more:What is expository, biblical preaching?What are the theological and historical foundations for insisting on expository preaching?What are the steps involved in preparation for and participation in biblical preaching?What models exist for expository preaching today?The Master's Seminary faculty, with over thirty years' experience in preaching and seminary training of preachers, contributes a treasury of expertise alongside insights from expositor John MacArthur. While united on their commitment to exposition, the variety of individual expressions and methodological preferences discussed offers beneficial assistance for any preacher seeking a higher level of expository excellence.

Turning Towards the Lord: Orientation in Liturgical Prayer


Uwe Michael Lang - 2005
    Lang, a member of the London Oratory, studies the direction of liturgical prayer from a historical, theological, and pastoral point of view.

The Whole World Will Love Me


Dorothy Scallan - 2005
    Toward the end of her life, St. Therese came to an understanding of her own spiritual advancement, for she made several predictions that all came true: That her Story of a Soul should be published as soon as possible, that she would let fall a shower of roses on the whole world when she died, that she would assist anyone who called upon her for aid, and finally, that the whole world will love her. And it does! The Little Flower is probably the best known and loved Saint of all time. Also explains St. Therese\'s devotion to the Holy Face - and shows how it made her a Saint. A great gift!

Through the Year With Oscar Romero: Daily Meditations


Irene B. Hodgson - 2005
    His words from his homilies give us spirit and hope. After reading and praying with Romero, we no longer can be indifferent to the suffering of the poor and those treated unjustly in all areas of the globe. This volume presents a selection of texts from the slain archbishop's homilies, one reading per day for a year of reflection and personal prayer. Archbishop Romero's homilies address themes still current today: persecution, pluralism, idolatry, forgiveness, conformity, sin, social sanction, the prophetic church, conversion, love of God and your neighbor—among many others. As Archbishop Romero once suggested, let us move to that "intimate cell" of our conscience to encounter ourselves and then go out and encounter our poor and voiceless.

Pilgrim Fellowship of Faith: The Church as Communion


Benedict XVI - 2005
    'Pilgrim Fellowship of Faith' is a collection of past writings of the newly-elected Pope on topics such as the ministry of priests, eucharistic theology, non-Christian religions, and the role of the Catholic Church in a secular world.

Christianity and the Crisis of Culture


Benedict XVI - 2005
    The West faces a deadly contradiction of its own making, he contends.Terrorism is on the rise. Technological advances of the West, employed by people who have cut themselves off from the moral wisdom of the past, threaten to abolish man (as C.S. Lewis put it)—whether through genetic manipulation or physical annihilation.In short, the West is at war-with itself. Its scientific outlook has brought material progress. The Enlightenment's appeal to reason has achieved a measure of freedom. But contrary to what many people suppose, both of these accomplishments depend on Judeo-Christian foundations, including the moral worldview that created Western culture.More than anything else, argues Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI, the important contributions of the West are threatened today by an exaggerated scientific outlook and by moral relativism-what Benedict XVI calls "the dictatorship of relativism"-in the name of freedom.Christianity and the Crisis of Cultures is no mere tirade against the moral decline of the West. Razinger challenges the West to return to its roots by finding a place for God in modern culture. He argues that both Christian culture and the Enlightenment formed the West, and that both hold the keys to human life and freedom as well as to domination and destruction.Ratzinger challenges non-believer and believer alike. "Both parties," he writes, "must reflect on their own selves and be ready to accept correction." He challenges secularized, unbelieving people to open themselves to God as the ground of true rationality and freedom. He calls on believers to "make God credible in this world by means of the enlightened faith they live."Topics include:Reflections on the Cultures in Conflict TodayThe Significance and Limits of Today's Rationalistic CultureThe Permanent Significance of the Christian FaithWhy We Must Not Give Up the FightThe Law of the Jungle, the Rule of LawWe Must Use Our Eyes!Faith and Everyday LifeCan Agnosticism Be a Solution?The Natural Knowledge of God"Supernatural" Faith and Its Origins

The Visible and the Revealed


Jean-Luc Marion - 2005
    Covering the ground from some of his earliest writings on this topic to very recent reflections, they are particularly useful for understanding the progression of Marion's thought on such topics as the saturated phenomenon and the possibility of something like "Christian Philosophy." The book contains his seminal pieces on the saturated phenomenon and on the gift, although the essays also explore more recent developments of his thought on these topics.Several chapters explicitly explore the boundary line between philosophy and theology or their mutual enrichment and influence. In one of the final pieces, "The Banality of Saturation," Marion considers some of the most recent objections brought against his notion of the saturated phenomenon and responds to them in detail, suggesting that saturated phenomena are neither as rare nor as inflexible as often assumed. The work contains two chapters not previously available in English and brings together several other pieces previously translated but now difficult to find. For readers interested in the relation between the two disciplines, this is indispensable reading.

Sadhu Sundar Singh: Essential Writings


Sadhu Sundar Singh - 2005
    At sixteen he left his home to live as a sadhu, or wandering holy man. His beggar-like existence, his intense devotion, his mystical encounters with Jesus, and his simple parables became the stuff of legends. His parables and meditations probed the essence of the gospel, calling listeners to awareness and compassion. When he disappeared during a journey to Tibet, millions mourned his passing.

Thomas Merton's Gethsemani: Landscapes of Paradise


Monica Weis - 2005
    In "Thomas Merton's Gethsemani," dramatic black-and-white photographs by Harry L. Hinkle and artful text by Merton scholar Monica Weis converge in a unique experience for lovers of Merton.Hinkle was allowed unprecedented access to many areas inside the monastery and on its grounds that are generally restricted. His photographs invite the reader to experience the various knobs, lakes, woods, and hermitages Merton sought out for times of solitude and contemplation and for reading and writing. These unique images, each accompanied by a passage from Merton's writings, evoke personal reflection and a deeper understanding of how and why Merton came to recognize himself as a part of his Kentucky landscape.Woven throughout the book, Weis's text explores Merton's fascination with nature not only at Gethsemani, but during his early childhood, throughout his spiritual conversion to Roman Catholicism, and while a member of the Trappist community. She examines how Merton's lifelong interaction with nature subtly revealed and informed his profound spiritual experiences and his writing about contemplation. "Thomas Merton's Gethsemani" replicates Merton's path on his solitary hikes in the woods and conveys the wonder of the landscapes that inspired him.

Dictionary for Theological Interpretation of the Bible


Kevin J. Vanhoozer - 2005
    This maze can often result in obscuring the main goal of interpreting Scripture: hearing and knowing God better. The Dictionary for Theological Interpretation of the Bible is a groundbreaking reference tool that introduces readers to key names, theories, and concepts in the field of biblical interpretation. It discusses these approaches and evaluates their helpfulness in enabling Christians to hear what God is saying to the church through Scripture. The contributors come from a variety of backgrounds, and the dictionary covers a broad range of topics with both clarity and depth.

Mark


David Guzik - 2005
    Jesus comes before us as the humble servant who by His work and words brings new life to man. With this easy-to-understand commentary you can get a clearer vision of the work Jesus accomplished for you.

Confessing God: Essays in Christian Dogmatics II


John B. Webster - 2005
    He also produces an account of the theological style of the French Dominican theologian Yves Congar.In the second part we find studies on dogmatic topics, one on the theology of the person of Christ, and three on the attributes of God: omnipresence, holiness and love, and veracity.Thirdly and finally Webster studies issues in the doctrine of the church and of Christian practice: an account of the nature of the church in terms of visibility and invisibility; a study of the meaning of Christian hope; and a reflection on gospel freedom.Taken together, the essays are worked examples of 'theological theology', that is, Christian theology which takes its rise in the Christian confession of the gospel which it seeks to hear, celebrate and commend.

To Be Continued: Are the Miraculous Gifts For Today?


Samuel E. Waldron - 2005
    Waldron builds a systematic case for the complete cessation of the miraculous gifts as well as the offices of apostle and prophet. Building an insurmountable argument step by step, he shows that the Bible is quite clear on this issue. If you are struggling to come to grips with what the Bible says on this most important and oftentimes confusing topic, then this book is essential reading.

The Saving Righteousness of God


Michael F. Bird - 2005
    T. Wright. The burden of this volume is to demonstrate that reformed and ""new"" readings of Paul are indispensable to attaining a full understanding of Paul's soteriology. An analysis of Galatians and Romans demonstrates that the covenantal and forensic dimensions of justification go hand in glove. The vertical and horizontal aspects need to be appropriately described and weighted in order to provide a holistic rendering of justification in Paul's letters. According to Paul, faith alone in Jesus Christ is the instrument of eschatological vindication; and faith alone marks out the true people of God. ""In a debate where the worst of Protestant infighting has been revived, and the 'spirit of slavery' has been more influential than 'the Spirit of adoption, ' Michael Bird's treatment is more than welcome. His is a calm, judicious and irenic voice amid the welter of paranoid accusation and counteraccusation, which ought to be heard widely, and--more important--ought to be heeded. Perhaps, then the world will be able to say again, 'See how these Christians love one another'--without sneering."" --James D. G. Dunn, Emeritus Lightfoot Professor of Divinity, University of Durham ""For fair treatment and thoroughness of coverage, including that of literature which usually flies under most scholars' radar, this book is probably unmatched."" --Robert H. Gundry, Scholar-in-Residence and Professor Emeritus, Westmont College ""The so-called 'new perspective' continues to exercise a profound effect on studies both of Judaism and of Paul. Students may well be confused by the complexities of the debate, but Michael Bird helpfully shows how fruitful insights can be derived from scholars on both sides of it. This fresh and sane approach to a difficult area will clarify the essential issues for students and preachers alike as they wrestle with expounding the thought of Paul for the contemporary church."" --I. Howard Marshall, Honorary Research Professor of New Testament, University of Aberdeen ""The study of what Paul means by 'justification' has hopped its rails, and now scholars from opposing perspectives--traditional Reformation theology and the New Perspective--have exited the train and are standing on opposite sides of the track tossing stones at one another. Michael Bird has called for a peace plan, and his proposal of an incorporated righteousness not only offers peace but can actually get the train back on its tracks so we can get on with moving the gospel into our world. This study deserves a 'Nobel peace prize in Theology'."" --Scot McKnight, Karl A. Olsson Professor in Religious Studies, North Park University Michael F. Bird (Ph.D., University of Queensland, Australia) is New Testament Lecturer at Highland Theological College in Dingwall, Scotland.

Gregory of Nazianzus


Brian E. Daley - 2005
    Gregory of Nazianzus portrays a vivid picture of a fascinating character of vital importance who deserves to be regarded as the first true Christian humanist.The eight orations, each representing a different aspect of his writing, are examined alongside a selection of his shorter poems in verse translation, letters, and a translation of Gregory's own will. Author Brian Daley offers extensive commentary on the works translated and an ample bibliography.With an extensive introduction to Gregory's life, thought and writings, and including detailed notes, this study places Gregory in his correct historical context, and gives students access to a deeper understanding of this fascinating figure from the past.

The End Of Words: The Language Of Reconciliation In A Culture Of Violence


Richard Lischer - 2005
    Mass communication keeps our thinking and talking at a flat mediocrity; mass violence gives the lie to sacred speech. "The End of Words" opens a path from languagebs disappointments and dead ends to its true end. Here Lischer shows how faithful reading of Scripture prepares the way for effective preaching, and he challenges conventional storytelling with a deeper and more biblical view of narrative preaching. The ultimate purpose of preaching, Lischer argues, is to bring about Godbs reconciliation in the world.

Masters of the English Reformation


Marcus L. Loane - 2005
    

The Promise of the Atonement: Cure for Broken Dreams


Ester Rasband - 2005
    He taught this doctrine to ancient Israel and during his earthly ministry, and he has reaffirmed it in these latter days. The law of Moses is the schoolmaster that holds the key to understanding his promise. It can lead us to valuing the Atonement enough to forgive and to feel forgiven. "The mistaken notion that we are required to excuse those who have trespassed against us and that we must discount the pain we have suffered leaves many wounded souls unnecessarily guilt-ridden and comfortless," writes author Ester Rasband. In this important volume, we learn that acceptance of the Atonement allows us to forgive those who have wronged us-not because that acceptance is a forfeiture of justice but because it is the very assurance of it. And justice, as The Promise of the Atonement ultimately shows, means restitution, restoration, and healing for the "heavy laden."

The Joy of Our Salvation: Talks from the 2004 Byu Women's Conference


Brigham Young University - 2005
    This theme from the 2004 BYU Women's Conference reminds that through the living water Christ offers each of us in our individual circumstances, we can feel the joy of true discipleship. The joy promised from the wells of salvation is not just the joy at the end of the road, but joy to sustain us on the walk each day. This collection of talks, directed specifically to women, focuses on how we can find joy and strength for the journey through Christ and the plan of salvation.Contributors include such authors as Elder Cecil O. Samuelson, Kathleen Hughes, Ardeth Kapp, Mary Ellen Edmunds, Heidi Swinton, Camille Fronk, Louise Plummer, and many others.

Jesus, the Tribulation, and the End of the Exile: Restoration Eschatology and the Origin of the Atonement


Brant Pitre - 2005
    Pitre examines key texts pertaining to Jesus' perception of his own death. In line with Jewish eschatological teachings of his day, Jesus taught that an eschatological tribulation would precede the final ingathering of God's exiled people and interpreted his own death as a key triggering event in that sequence. This comprehensive treatment of the Great Tribulation includes a provocative critique of N. T. Wright's understanding of exile and has important consequences for Jesus' messianic self-understanding. This fresh contribution to the question of Jesus and the atonement will be valued by New Testament scholars and biblical theology students alike.

The Pearl of Christian Comfort


Petrus Dathenus - 2005
    In this succinct treatise, the light of Scripture shines clearly on the practical issues involved in teaching and living the doctrines of sovereign grace.

Junia: The First Woman Apostle


Eldon Jay Epp - 2005
    Because later theologians and scribes could not believe (or wanted to suppress) that Paul had numbered a woman among the earliest churches' apostles, Junia's name was changed in Romans to a masculine form. Despite the fact that the earliest churches met in homes and that other women were clearly leaders in the churches (e.g., Prisca and Lydia), calling Junia an apostle seemed too much for the tradition. Epp tracks how this happened in New Testament manuscripts, scribal traditions, and translations of the Bible. In this thoroughgoing study, Epp restores Junia to her rightful place.

The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story


Frank Anthony Spina - 2005
    The biblical story about God's covenant with "insiders" -- with Israel as the chosen people -- is scandalous in today's cultural climate of inclusivity. But, as Frank Anthony Spina shows, God's exclusive election actually has an inclusive purpose.Looking carefully at the biblical narrative, Spina highlights in bold relief seven remarkable stories that treat nonelect people positively and, even more, as strategically important participants in God's plan of salvation. The stories of Esau, Tamar, Rahab, Naaman, Jonah, Ruth, and the woman at the well come alive in new ways as Spina discusses and examines them from an outsider-insider point of view.

The Covenant of Life Opened


Samuel Rutherford - 2005
    The answer is given in the Bible – God is a covenant keeping God who saves sinners through the work of Jesus Christ – the Mediator of the Covenant of Grace. With keen insight, Samuel Rutherford unfolds the manner in which God save sinners seen through the three theological and biblically centered covenants found in the Bible: the Covenant of Life, the Covenant of Grace, and the Covenant of Redemption. This work is one of the most significant of Rutherford’s treatments of the biblical covenants, containing some of Rutherford’s most mature thoughts.This is not a scan or facsimile, and has an active table of contents.

A Holy Meal: The Lord's Supper in the Life of the Church


Gordon T. Smith - 2005
    What did he mean? Throughout church history, there have been various interpretations of his words. These differences have caused denominational ruptures that have yet to heal.In A Holy Meal, Gordon T. Smith shows that we cannot appreciate the Lord's Supper until we understand it. In light of the renewed attention given to the sacraments by all branches of the church, he examines the historic interpretations and seeks common ground among believers. In the process, he shows how the Lord's Supper can infuse new meaning into the church as it confronts the forces of postmodernism and secularism. A Holy Meal is essential reading for Christians who want to ponder the Lord's Supper again--perhaps truly for the first time.

To the Rising Generation


Jonathan Edwards - 2005
    Also included is a list of Bible questions for children that Edwards expected his young people to know. For the most part, these messages focus on the importance of obedience, discipline, and seeking God.

Wisdom of the Prophets Eternal Marriage


Various - 2005
    

The Humility of God: A Franciscan Perspective


Ilia Delio - 2005
    Together with this she brings her personal knowledge and experience of contemporary scientific understandings of the cosmos. In a style that is preeminently readable, she offers insights into issues and problems that are widespread in the present period of Christian history. Sister Ilia has taken on these monumental issues and has opened insights, which can be helpful to many who take their Christian faith seriously."—from the Preface by Zachary Hayes, O.F.M. The Humility of God: A Franciscan Perspective is the first extensive treatment of a Franciscan theology of divine humility. Through the lens of St. Bonaventure's theology, Ilia Delio searches for God today "in a fast-paced, scientific world that in many ways views God as an unnecessary hypothesis." Using Bonaventure's Christ-centered mysticism, Ilia Delio illustrates God's humility and his relationship to the world, while at the same time tackling these tough questions: How can a God of love exist in such a time of turmoil and suffering? How can a well-educated Christian reconcile contemporary science with the central symbols of his or her faith?

What's Faith Got to Do with It?: Black Bodies/Christian Souls


Kelly Brown Douglas - 2005
    She shows how this later helped support white racism, just as it later fed homophobia and other distortions in the black church. Nevertheless, she ends by sharing an inspiring account of her own Christian faith, and why she is still a Christian.

The Navarre Bible: St John's Gospel


University of Navarra - 2005
    

The Promise and the Blessing: A Historical Survey of the Old and New Testaments


Michael A. Harbin - 2005
    But exactly how do all the pieces fit together? In a single volume, The Promise and the Blessing connects the dots of the Old and New Testament books to reveal the big picture of salvation history. Organized chronologically rather than canonically, this book traces the flow of Israel’s history and shows how the New Testament proceeds out of the Old. It begins with God’s creation of the cosmos and the initial problem of the fall of man. Then it traces God’s solutions to that problem as he selects first one man, Abraham, then his line, and then the nation of Israel to provide the Messiah. Finally, it focuses on the Messiah himself and looks at how the gospel of Jesus was spread throughout the known world.The Promise and the Blessing is easy to use and ideal for anyone who wants to understand the grand narrative of the Bible. It features numerous beautiful, full-color photos, as well as sidebars and brief, fascinating “breakouts” of supplementary information. Maps, illustrations, summaries, and insightful notes help to illuminate the text. Field-tested in the classroom, The Promise and the Blessing is designed for Old and New Testament survey classes and will provide all readers of the Bible with a better understanding of how the drama that began in Eden winds through Israel’s history to its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ, The Holy One Of God


Raniero Cantalamessa - 2005
    This work consists of meditations on Christ, focusing on the fundamental truths concerning Christ as defined in the early ecumenical councils and summed up in three statements: Jesus Christ is true man, he is true God, he is one sole person.

The Daily Discipler: Daily Readings That Will Give You A Solid Foundation in the Christian Faith


Neil T. Anderson - 2005
    You will find 52 weeks of practical Christian theology that can be digested in only five minutes a day, five days a week. Divided into four quarters, this vital resource shows readers what it means to have a Christian worldview, who they are in Christ and how to find freedom through their Christian identity. This is the beginning of an adventure that will not only teach readers the fundamentals of their faith but will also lead them into a closer walk with God.

A Genuine Faith: How to Follow Jesus Today


Rodney Reeves - 2005
    Rodney Reeves takes readers back to the original source of all discipleship teaching, the four Gospel accounts, to discover how each Gospel writer presents following Jesus differently-from Matthew's training manual for making disciples to John's stories of model disciples. This fresh, holistic, and scripturally based approach to discipleship will appeal to readers hungry for an authentic discipleship material. A Genuine Faith will also appeal to individuals looking for a spiritual growth resource and pastors and teachers in search of discipleship material for sermons, small groups, and discipleship classes.

Mary the Mother of God: Sermons by Saint Gregory Palamas


Gregory Palamas - 2005
    Gregory's extant homilies are arranged thematically, principally for the benefit of the layperson interested in the rich Biblical tradition of the Church Fathers.Mary the Mother of God, the first volume in this series, is a collection of some of the greatest homilies ever written on the Mother of our Lord, including the most celebrated of all St. Gregory's works, his sermon "On the Entry of the Mother of God into the Holy of Holies".

Your Life in Christ


George MacDonald - 2005
    This volume explores topics that comprise the heart of Christian theology, including "The Creation in Christ," "Life," "Self-Denial," "Freedom," and more. In this book drawn from MacDonald's sermons and published essays, Michael Phillips makes MacDonald's wisdom and insights accessible to today's readers.

Spiritual Writings: Contemplation, Meditation, Prayer, The Fountain Of Light And The Paths Of Life, Monastic Profession, Exhortation To Novices


Denis the Carthusian - 2005
    During his life he wrote over 150 works. Ni Riain here translates his most significant spiritual writings for readers interested in his ideas rather than for academics: she provides no notes, bibliography, or index. Distributed in the US by ISBS. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR