Best of
Theology

2011

Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist: Unlocking the Secrets of the Last Supper


Brant Pitre - 2011
     "Clear, profound and practical--you do not want to miss this book."--Dr. Scott Hahn, author of The Lamb's Supper and The Fourth CupJesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist shines fresh light on the Last Supper by looking at it through Jewish eyes. Using his in-depth knowledge of the Bible and ancient Judaism, Dr. Brant Pitre answers questions such as: What was the Passover like at the time of Jesus? What were the Jewish hopes for the Messiah? What was Jesus' purpose in instituting the Eucharist during the feast of Passover? And, most important of all, what did Jesus mean when he said, "This is my body... This is my blood"?To answer these questions, Pitre explores ancient Jewish beliefs about the Passover of the Messiah, the miraculous Manna from heaven, and the mysterious Bread of the Presence. As he shows, these three keys--the Passover, the Manna, and the Bread of the Presence--have the power to unlock the original meaning of the Eucharistic words of Jesus. Along the way, Pitre also explains how Jesus united the Last Supper to his death on Good Friday and his Resurrection on Easter Sunday.Inspiring and informative, Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist is a groundbreaking work that is sure to illuminate one of the greatest mysteries of the Christian faith: the mystery of Jesus' presence in "the breaking of the bread."

The Cross and the Lynching Tree


James H. Cone - 2011
    In this powerful new work, theologian James H. Cone explores these symbols and their interconnection in the history and souls of black folk. Both the cross and the lynching tree represent the worst in human beings and at the same time a thirst for life that refuses to let the worst determine our final meaning. While the lynching tree symbolized white power and black death, the cross symbolizes divine power and black life, God overcoming the power of sin and death. For African Americans, the image of Jesus, hung on a tree to die, powerfully grounded their faith that God was with them, even in the suffering of the lynching era.In a work that spans social history, theology, and cultural studies, Cone explores the message of the spirituals and the power of the blues; the passion and the engaged vision of Martin Luther King, Jr.; he invokes the spirits of Billie Holiday and Langston Hughes, Fannie Lou Hamer and Ida B. Wells, and the witness of black artists, writers, preachers, and fighters for justice. And he remembers the victims, especially the 5,000 who perished during the lynching period. Through their witness he contemplates the greatest challenge of any Christian theology to explain how life can be made meaningful in the face of death and injustice.

Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith


Robert Barron - 2011
    I want to function rather as a mystagogue, conducting you ever deeper into the mystery of the incarnation in the hopes that you might be transformed by its power. Father Robert BarronWhat is Catholicism? A 2,000-year-oldliving tradition? A worldview? A way of life? A relationship? A mystery? In Catholicism Father Robert Barron examines all these questions and more, seeking to capture the body, heart and mind of the Catholic faith. Starting from the essential foundation of Jesus Christ s incarnation, life, and teaching, Father Barron moves through the defining elements of Catholicism from sacraments, worship, and prayer, to Mary, the Apostles, and Saints, to grace, salvation, heaven, and hell using his distinct and dynamic grasp of art, literature, architecture, personal stories, Scripture, theology, philosophy, and history to present the Church to the world. Paired with his documentary film series of the same title, Catholicism is an intimate journey, capturing The Catholic Thing in all its depth and beauty. Eclectic, unique, and inspiring, Father Barron brings the faith to life for a new generation, in a style that is both faithful to timeless truths, while simultaneously speaking in the language of contemporary life. Includes over 100 black and white and color photos."

With: Reimagining the Way You Relate to God


Skye Jethani - 2011
    Stop Living Your Life Under, Over, From and For God and Start Living in Communion With Him.

The Book of Common Prayer


The Episcopal Church - 2011
    OVERVIEWThe most recent Episcopal Book of Common Prayer from 1979 contains two rites for the most common services, the first from traditional language from previous versions, and the second using only contemporary language (some of it newly composed, and some adapted from the older language).This Kindle version of the Book of Common Prayer contains a fully interactive table of contents, index, as well as references and links to the actual pages numbers in the paper version of the Book.CONTENTS:The Book of Common PrayerAdministration of the SacramentsOther RitesCeremonies of the ChurchThe Psalter or Psalms of David

The Crucified Life: How To Live Out A Deeper Christian Experience


A.W. Tozer - 2011
    “God is ingenious in developing crosses for His followers,” Tozer was fond of saying. At the heart of the book is a call to believers to follow Christ to the Cross and be raised to new life—a call to live and thrive in the crucified life.

The Essential Guide To Healing


Bill Johnson - 2011
    And God is moving as amazingly today as he was back then. Thousands are being healed all over the world--and his children are part of it. For the first time, premier renewal leaders Bill Johnson and Randy Clark team up to equip Christians to minister healing. Grounded from start to finish in Scripture, Johnson and Clark lay out the rich theological and historical foundation for healing in the church today. Full of inspiring stories, this book offers practical, proven, step-by-step guidance to ministering healing, including how to- understand the authority of the believer in healing- create an atmosphere of faith- receive words of knowledge- implement the five-step model of healing prayer The ministry of healing is not reserved for a select few. God's miraculous healing is part of the Good News--and every believer can become a conduit for his healing power.

Gospel: Recovering the Power that Made Christianity Revolutionary


J.D. Greear - 2011
    Greear shows how moralism and legalism have often eclipsed the gospel, even in conservative churches. Gospel cuts through the superficiality of religion and reacquaints you with the revolutionary truth of God's gracious acceptance of us in Christ. The gospel is the power of God, and the only true source of joy, freedom, radical generosity, and audacious faith. The gospel produces in us what religion never could: a heart that desires God. The book’s core is a “gospel prayer” by which you can saturate yourself in the gospel daily. Dwelling on the gospel will release in you new depths of passion for God and take you to new heights of obedience to Him. Gospel gives you an applicable, exciting vision of how God will use you to bring His healing to the world.

King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus


Timothy J. Keller - 2011
    King's Cross is Timothy Keller's revelatory look at the life of Christ as told in the Gospel of Mark. There have been many biographies of Jesus, but few will be as anticipated as one by Keller, the man Newsweek calls "a C.S. Lewis for the twenty-first century." In it, Keller shows how the story of Jesus is at once cosmic, historical, and personal, calling each of us to look anew at our relationship with God. Like Keller's other books it has tremendous crossover appeal, but it is also ideal for the faithful, those who are looking for a closer connection to Jesus and Christianity.

A New Testament Biblical Theology: The Unfolding of the Old Testament in the New


G.K. Beale - 2011
    G. K. Beale, coeditor of the award-winning Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament, examines how the New Testament storyline relates to and develops the Old Testament storyline. Beale argues that every major concept of the New Testament is a development of a concept from the Old and is to be understood as a facet of the inauguration of the latter-day new creation and kingdom. Offering extensive interaction between the two testaments, this volume helps readers see the unifying conceptual threads of the Old Testament and how those threads are woven together in Christ. This major work will be valued by students of the New Testament and pastors alike.

The Kingdom New Testament: A Contemporary Translation


N.T. Wright - 2011
    In The Kingdom New Testament, N. T. Wright, author and one of the world’s leading New Testament scholars, offers an all-new English translation that invigorates these sacred texts and allows contemporary readers to encounter these historic works afresh. The original Greek text is vibrant, alive, and active, and Wright’s translation retains that spirit by providing a new English text for the twenty-first-century reader. At the same time, based on his work as a pioneering interpreter of the Bible, Wright also corrects other translations so as to provide more accurate representations of the original writers’ intent.The Kingdom New Testament features consistent use of gender-neutral language and a more “popular-level” language matching character of the original Greek, while maintaining the vibrancy and urgency of the original work. It will help the next generation of Christians acquire a firsthand understanding of what the New Testament had to say in its own world, and what it urgently has to say in ours.Features:Complete text of the Kingdom New Testament—a fresh, new translation by N. T. WrightPreface by N. T. WrightDozens of maps throughout the textParagraph headings

The Jewish Annotated New Testament


Amy-Jill Levine - 2011
    In The Jewish Annotated New Testament, eminent experts under the general editorship of Amy-Jill Levine and Marc Z. Brettler put these writings back into the context of their original authors and audiences. And they explain how these writings have affected the relations of Jews and Christians over the past two thousand years. An international team of scholars introduces and annotates the Gospels, Acts, Letters, and Revelation from Jewish perspectives, in the New Revised Standard Version translation. They show how Jewish practices and writings, particularly the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, influenced the New Testament writers. From this perspective, readers gain new insight into the New Testament's meaning and significance. In addition, thirty essays on historical and religious topics--Divine Beings, Jesus in Jewish thought, Parables and Midrash, Mysticism, Jewish Family Life, Messianic Movements, Dead Sea Scrolls, questions of the New Testament and anti-Judaism, and others--bring the Jewish context of the New Testament to the fore, enabling all readers to see these writings both in their original contexts and in the history of interpretation. For readers unfamiliar with Christian language and customs, there are explanations of such matters as the Eucharist, the significance of baptism, and "original sin." For non-Jewish readers interested in the Jewish roots of Christianity and for Jewish readers who want a New Testament that neither proselytizes for Christianity nor denigrates Judaism, The Jewish Annotated New Testament is an essential volume that places these writings in a context that will enlighten students, professionals, and general readers.

Reading Revelation Responsibly: Uncivil Worship and Witness: Following the Lamb into the New Creation


Michael J. Gorman - 2011
    In rescuing the Apocalypse from those who either completely misinterpret it or completely ignore it, Michael Gorman has given us both a guide to reading Revelation in a responsible way and a theological engagement with the text itself. He takes interpreting the book as a serious and sacred responsibility, believing how one reads, teaches, and preaches Revelation can have a powerful impact on one’s own—and other people’s—well-being. Gorman pays careful attention to the book’s original historical and literary contexts, its connections to the rest of Scripture, its relationship to Christian doctrine and practice, and its potential to help or harm people in their life of faith. Rather than a script for the end times, Gorman demonstrates how Revelation is a script for Christian worship, witness, and mission that runs counter to culturally embedded civil religion."With an exceptional blend of scholarly insight and confessional grounding, this book restores Revelation to relevance for the mission of the church. Gorman joins John of Patmos to inspire us with a risky and lofty vision of following the Lamb in radical and nonviolent witness in the world. This accessible volume is a theological wellspring for preachers, teachers, and any disciples seeking a reliable alternative to the scare-mongering eschatology that clogs airwaves and bookstores."--J. Nelson Kraybillauthor of Apocalypse and Allegiance: Worship, Politics, and Devotion in the Book of Revelation "Sometimes I think there are only two kinds of Christians in America: those who've never read Revelation and those who read almost nothing else. This book can help either kind. With careful use of scholarship and an evident love for the Lamb who was slain, Michael Gorman demystifies a book that's meant to clarify what's at stake when we say, 'Jesus is Lord.'"--Jonathan Wilson-Hartgroveauthor of The Wisdom of Stability: Rooting Faith in a Mobile CultureMichael J. Gorman is Professor of Sacred Scripture and Dean of the Ecumenical Institute of Theology at St. Mary's Seminary & University in Baltimore, Maryland. His recent books include Reading Paul (Cascade 2008) and Inhabiting the Cruciform God (2009).

Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ


Russ Ramsey - 2011
    With remarkable attention to the facts of the matter—the water dripping from John the Baptist’s beard, the heft of Abraham’s knife, the groans of a girl giving birth on a stable floor—Ramsey brings to life the story that brings us to life. Here is glory made visible, tangible, audible. Which is to say, here is the Incarnation.Drawing from the hallowed pages of Scripture and with an eye toward both wonder and ground-level detail, Behold the Lamb of God: An Advent Narrative brings to life in 25 daily readings the people, the places, and the earth-shaking significance of the greatest story ever told—the true tall tale of the coming of Christ.

The Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis


Nancy Guthrie - 2011
    And this is where The Promised One begins to look for Christ, finding him in the people, promises, and patterns of the Old Testament scriptures.With contagious passion and theological soundness, Bible teacher Nancy Guthrie shows how the book of Genesis points us to the person of Christ. Throughout ten weeks of guided personal study, relevant teaching, and thoughtful discussion questions, The Promised One will help you:make new discoveries of Jesus as seen in the shadows of the Old Testament; apply the gospel found in Genesis to issues such as shame, fear, and the desire for security and significance; develop your longing for what is ahead when the world is once again made new. Gain a fresh perspective on the book of Genesis, a broader understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture, and much more, when you join with Nancy on this incredible journey to see Jesus in the Old Testament!

Tempted and Tried: Temptation and the Triumph of Christ


Russell D. Moore - 2011
    Tempted and Tried will not reassure Christians by claiming that temptation is less powerful or less prevalent than it is; instead, it will prepare believers for battle by telling the truth about the cosmic war that is raging. Moore shows that the temptation of every Christian is part of a broader conspiracy against God, a conspiracy that confronts everyone who shares the flesh of Jesus through human birth and especially confronts those who share the Spirit of Christ through the new birth of redemption.Moore walks readers through the Devil's ancient strategies for temptation revealed in Jesus' wilderness testing. Moore considers how those strategies might appear in a contemporary context and points readers to a way of escape. Tempted and Tried will remind Christians that temptation must be understood in terms of warfare, encouraging them with the truth that victory has already been secured through the triumph of Christ.

The Book that Made Your World: How the Bible Created the Soul of Western Civilization


Vishal Mangalwadi - 2011
     From politics and science, to academia and technology, the Bible's sacred copy became the key that unlocked the Western mind.Through Mangalwadi's wide-ranging and fascinating investigation, you'll discover:What triggered the West's passion for scientific, medical, and technological advancementHow the biblical notion of human dignity informs the West's social structure and how it intersects with other worldviewsHow the Bible created a fertile ground for women to find social and economic empowermentHow the Bible has uniquely equipped the West to cultivate compassion, human rights, prosperity, and strong familiesThe role of the Bible in the transformation of educationHow the modern literary notion of a hero has been shaped by the Bible's archetypal protagonistJourney with Mangalwadi as he examines the origins of a civilization's greatness and the misguided beliefs that threaten to unravel its progress.  Learn how the Bible transformed the social, political, and religious institutions that have sustained Western culture for the past millennium, and discover how secular corruption endangers the stability and longevity of Western civilization.Endorsements:“This is an extremely significant piece of work with huge global implications. Vishal brings a timely message.” (Ravi Zacharias, author, Walking from East to West and Beyond Opinion)“In polite society, the mere mention of the Bible often introduces a certain measure of anxiety. A serious discussion on the Bible can bring outright contempt. Therefore, it is most refreshing to encounter this engaging and informed assessment of the Bible’s profound impact on the modern world. Where Bloom laments the closing of the American mind, Mangalwadi brings a refreshing optimism.” (Stanley Mattson, founder and president, C. S. Lewis Foundation)“Vishal Mangalwadi recounts history in very broad strokes, always using his cross-cultural perspectives for highlighting the many benefits of biblical principles in shaping civilization.” (George Marsden, professor, University of Notre Dame; author, Fundamentalism and American Culture)

Redemption: Freed by Jesus from the Idols We Worship and the Wounds We Carry


Mike Wilkerson - 2011
    Most Christians don't make golden idols like the Israelites in the wilderness, but we do set up idols on our own desert road--idols like substance abuse, pornography, gluttony, and rage. And even those who don't know the pain of actual slavery can feel enslaved to the fear and shame that follow sexual abuse or betrayal by a spouse, for we suffer at the hands of our idols as well as those created by others. We need more than self-improvement or comfort--we need redemption.Redemption is not a step-oriented recovery book; it's story-oriented and Bible-anchored. It unfolds the back-story of redemption in Exodus to help Christians better understand how Christ redeems us from the slavery of abuse, addiction and assorted trouble and restores us to our created purpose, the worship of God. Readers will discover that the reward of freedom is more than victory over a habitual sin or release from shame; it is satisfaction and rest in God himself.

Unclean: Meditations on Purity, Hospitality, and Mortality


Richard Beck - 2011
    And yet, as missional faith communities are well aware, the tensions and conflicts between holiness and mercy are not so easily resolved. At every turn, it seems that the psychological pull of purity and holiness tempts the church into practices of social exclusion and a Gnostic flight from "the world" into a "too spiritual" spirituality. Moreover, the psychology of purity often lures the church into what psychologists call "The Macbeth Effect," the psychological trap that tempts us into believing that ritual acts of cleansing can replace moral and missional engagement. Finally, time after time, wherever we see churches regulating their common life with the idiom of dirt, disgust, and defilement, we find a predictable wake of dysfunction: ruined self-images, social stigma, and communal conflict. In an unprecedented fusion of psychological science and theological scholarship, Richard Beck describes the pernicious (and largely unnoticed) effects of the psychology of purity upon the life and mission of the church.

The Transforming Power of the Gospel


Jerry Bridges - 2011
    Bestselling author Jerry Bridges helps us understand that we have available to us the ultimate power source for true spiritual growth: the gospel.In The Transforming Power of the Gospel, Bridges guides you through a thorough examination of:• what the biblical meaning of grace is and how it applies to your life• how Jesus’ work in His life and death applies to the believer in justification and adoption• why basic spiritual disciplines are necessary for spiritual growth• what role the Holy Spirit plays in both definitive and progressive sanctification

A Spirituality of Fundraising


Henri J.M. Nouwen - 2011
    Nouwen

Gunning for God: A Critique of the New Atheism


John C. Lennox - 2011
    Since the twin towers crashed to the ground on September 11, there has been no end to attacks on religion. Claims abound that religion is dangerous, that it kills, and that it poisons everything. And if religion is the problem with the world, say the New Atheists, the answer is simple—get rid of it. Of course, things aren’t quite so straightforward. Arguing that the New Athiests' irrational and unscientific methodology leaves them guilty of the very obstinate foolishness they criticize in dogmatic religious folks, this erudite and wide-ranging guide to religion in the modern age packs some debilitating punches and scores big for religious rationalism.

Everywhere Present: Christianity in a One-Storey Universe


Stephen Freeman - 2011
    The effect of this is to banish God, along with the saints and angels, from our everyday lives.In Everywhere Present, popular blogger and podcaster Fr. Stephen Freeman makes a compelling case for becoming aware of God’s living and active presence in every moment of our lives here and now. Learning to practice your Christian faith in a one-storey universe will change your life—and make possible the living, intimate relationship with God you’ve always dreamed of.

Forever: Living with Eternity in View


Paul David Tripp - 2011
    It is a practical tool to help us face the disappointment of everyday life. Now he knows, and he can help you discover how to survive and thrive in the middle of your story, with the final chapter of heaven in view. Instead of embracing the world's motto---'you only live once'---follow Tripp as he unpacks the biblical truth of the world as a broken place, longing for a second chance. And come alive as you discover the meaning and redemption all this brokenness can bring to your life today. With practical insights on how eternity impacts your relationships, your job, your kids, and your deepest struggles, you'll be encouraged to relax into the eternal story God is writing for you. You really are hardwired for eternity, and this book reveals how you can begin to view all that happens in your life as preparation for Forever.

Prayer of Petition: Breaking Through the Impossible


Jerry Savelle - 2011
    Yet many Christians don’t know how to pray both effectively—in a way that gets results—and humbly—in a way that aligns with God’s will. Prayer is a powerful weapon against the true adversaries of God’s people: principalities, powers, dark rulers and spiritual wickedness in high places. These forces are the perpetrators of all kinds of evil: Addiction, abuse, poverty and spiritual bondage run rampant through families, churches, cities and nations. What can believers do to battle these forces? They can pray.Not just any prayer: the prayer of petition, known throughout Christian history as the prayer that gets results. Prayer of Petition explores this powerful prayer in detail, from the many examples found in God’s Word to more recent instances of incredible miracles ushered in by this prayer. Readers will learn the biblical definitions of petition and supplication, and examine the key components of preparation, thanksgiving and humility. As readers learn to petition the Ruler of All, their confidence that God will prevail—no matter what—will grow, and as they learn to rest in His promises, peace will reign over their hearts through the coming revival.

The Marks of a Spiritual Leader


John Piper - 2011
    Saturated in Scripture, and loaded with practical illustrations, this booklet will be instructive and challenging for anyone in a position of Christian leadership, as well as for anyone aspiring to lead spiritually.http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-l...

Christian Classics: Six books by Charles Spurgeon in a single collection, with active table of contents


Charles Haddon Spurgeon - 2011
    All of GraceAll of Grace is a simple and eloquent presentation of basic salvation through grace alone. Spurgeon wants readers only to consume his work and ponder it, he asks nothing in return because he believes in the power of God to bring unbelievers to Him. Spurgeon brings the gospel to his readers with pointed illustrations, well-placed anecdotes, irrefutable arguments, heart-felt pleas, and above all else the plainly-spoken and rightly-applied word of God. This short and easy read is both a perfect introduction to salvation and an assurance of it for unbelievers and the saved alike.2. An All Round MinistryWhile Spurgeon is always, both stimulating and challenging, the context in which these addresses were given brought the best out of him and gave them unique quality. Full of biblical exposition, wise counsel, practical sanity and warm exhortation, they also sparkle with a delightful wit. Here is Spurgeon at his finest as a man with a pastoral heart par excellence.3. Commenting and CommentariesSpurgeon's classic lecture series, together with his complete annotated catalog of commentaries. Spurgeon's pithy remarks on the relative merits of various commentaries are both witty and instructive. This is a delight to read, as well as a valuable tool for Bible teachers seeking the most helpful resources.4. Eccentric PreachersA quaint collection of lectures about great preachers with unusual characteristics. Spurgeon said he wrote it in "self-defense."5. Morning and Evening: Daily ReadingOrganized by month, this devotional has a morning and evening meditation for every day of the year. Although these devotions are short in length, they are filled with spiritual goodness. In just a few sentences, Spurgeon is able to convey the wisdom of Scripture with eloquence and purpose. These daily messages provide Christians with the spiritual energy they need to begin and end each day. Spurgeon weaves a verse of Scripture into each devotion, helping readers draw deeper meaning out of the selected passages. This powerful devotional provides Christians with the spiritual nourishment required to strengthen their relationships with God. Readers will find themselves inspired by Morning and Evening: Daily Readings.6. Til He ComeThe father of the modern "mega-church," Spurgeon is most famous for his pastorship at London's Metropolitan Tabernacle, where he regularly preached to huge crowds. Till He Come is a collection of addresses centered on the Lord's Supper. Some were preached to the congregation at Metropolitan, while others were spoken to small groups of Christians Spurgeon hosted on Sundays to celebrate communion. The collection addresses a diverse range of scriptures, but all stick to the common theme of Jesus' symbolic last meal. It will prove helpful to anyone looking for further insight on this interdenominational practice and will encourage believers to "do this in remembrance of me."About the AuthorCharles Haddon (C.H.) Spurgeon (June 19, 1834 – January 31, 1892) was a British Baptist preacher, still known as the "Prince of Preachers". In his lifetime, Spurgeon preached to around 10,000,000 people, often up to 10 times a week at different places. His sermons have been translated into many languages. Spurgeon was the pastor of the New Park Street Chapel in London for 38 years. He was part of several controversies with the Baptist Union of Great Britain, and later had to leave that denomination. Throughout his life, Spurgeon suffered from depression and other mental illnesses. In 1857, he started a charity organization called Spurgeon's which now works globally. He also founded Spurgeon's College, which was named after him after his death.-Wikipedia

Discernment: Reading the Signs of Daily Life


Henri J.M. Nouwen - 2011
    M. Nouwen brought to the essential question asked by every Christian and seeker: What should I do with my life? Nouwen emphasizes listening to the Word of God—in our hearts, in the Bible, in the community of faith, and in the voice of the poor as a way to discern God’s plan. Although the late Henri J. M. Nouwen counseled many people during his lifetime, his principles of discernment were never collected into a single volume. Now, in association with the Nouwen Legacy Trust, Michael Christensen—one of Nouwen’s longtime students—and Rebecca Laird have taken his coursework, journals, and unpublished writings to create this and other books in the series exploring God’s will for your life.

NIV Bible in One Year.


Anonymous - 2011
    It is ideal for personal devotions or to read as a community.

Feasting on the Word: Year A, Volume 4: Season After Pentecost 2


David L. Bartlett - 2011
    When complete, the twelve volumes of the series will cover all the Sundays in the three-year lectionary cycle, along with movable occasions, such as Christmas Day, Epiphany, Holy Week, and All Saints' Day.For each lectionary text, preachers will find four brief essays--one each on the theological, pastoral, exegetical, and homiletical challenges of the text. This gives preachers sixteen different approaches to the proclamation of the Word on any given occasion.The editors and contributors to this series are world-class scholars, pastors, and writers representing a variety of denominations and traditions. And while the twelve volumes of the series will follow the pattern of the Revised Common Lectionary, each volume will contain an index of biblical passages so that nonlectionary preachers, as well as teachers and students, may make use of its contents.

Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural Studies in 1 Corinthians


Kenneth E. Bailey - 2011
    In this ground-breaking study of Paul's first epistle to the Corinthians, Kenneth Bailey examines this canonical letter through Paul's Jewish socio-cultural and rhetorical background and through the Mediterranean context of its Corinthian recipients.

Who ate lunch with Abraham


Asher Intrater - 2011
    he is sometimes referred to as the Angel of the Lord, sometimes as God Himself, and sometimes as the Son of Man. The appearance of this figure demands a re-evaluation of classic Judeo-Christian world views.

Uneclipsing the Son


Rick Holland - 2011
    Escape the twilight of tepid religiosity to step into the broad daylight of the living Christ! Christianity is the worship of Jesus Christ. If He is who the Bible says He is, and if He did what the Bible says He did, He is worthy of the exclusive, attention and focus pf our lives. Sadly, though, the Son gets crowded out by earthly things. Our hearts grow slack, our love runs cool, our worship is distracted. Even the treadmill of Christian activity can keep us ever unable to focus on the Author and Finisher of the race. We sip at puddles of sin a stone's throw from the Well of the water of life. Uneclipsing the Son aims at ending all this, bringing you face to face with the Christ of Scripture, the only one who can transform you just by knowing Him. Clear, biblical, compelling, Holland will drive you relentlessly to the conclusion that you must give yourself to the worship of this Jesus or forever stumble in the half-light of spiritual uncertainty and disaffection."

New Testament For Everyone Collection, 18 Volumes


Tom Wright - 2011
    T. Wright has undertaken a tremendous task: to provide guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to include in them his own translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable discussion, with background information, useful explanations and suggestions, and thoughts as to how the text can be relevant to our lives today. A glossary is included at the back of the book. The series is suitable for group study, personal study, or daily devotions.Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition of ISBN 0664238262 here.

Normal Christianity: If Jesus is normal, what is the Church?


Jonathan Welton - 2011
    Remember the fad a few years ago when people wore bracelets reminding them, “What Would Jesus Do?” Christians state that Jesus is the example of how to live, yet this has been limited in many cases to how we view our moral character. When Christians tell me that they want to live like Jesus, I like to ask if they have multiplied food, healed the sick, walked on water, raised the dead, paid their taxes with fish money, calmed storms, and so forth. I typically receive bewildered looks, but that’s what it is like to live like Jesus!Perhaps we are ignoring a large portion of what living like Jesus really includes. While I agree that we are to live like Jesus, “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6 NLT). I am also aware that the application of Jesus’ model has been minimized to something that can be accomplished by living a moral life. Many Christians believe that they can live like Jesus without ever operating in the supernatural. After reading in the Bible about all of the miracles He performed, does that sound right to you? (Excerpt from book)

The Complete Works of St. John Chrysostom (36 Books)


John Chrysostom - 2011
    John Chrysostom was born in Antioch in the year 349 AD. His father died soon after his birth and he was raised by his deeply pious mother. Under her influence St. John became devout as well, and took to studying scripture under the guidance of the bishop of Antioch who would later be the one to baptize him.St. John was drawn to become a monk, and when he mother died he withdrew to the wilderness. There he wrote a number of works on the ascetic life. After a number of years he went to a cave to live in complete silence. He lasted for two years until his health declined and he was forced to come back into the world. He was ordained a priest in 386, and eventually earned the name, 'Chrysostom' (Golden-Mouthed) for his brilliant sermons. He was known for his love of scripture, and many of his sermons were compiled into commentaries.In 397 he was chosen to be the bishop of Constantinople, which was perhaps the most important Christian office of its day. Although an extremely busy position, he nevertheless continued his literary output in the form of sermons, which he delivered in the great church, Hagia Sofia. Unfortunately his often fiery sermons did not sit well with the royal court. He was banished from the city once by the empress. Then a second time the empress had him removed and forcibly walked to a remote location. St. John did not survive the journey and died on Sept. 17, 407.St. John Chrysostom left a tremendous mark on the Christian church. His liturgy is celebrated by Eastern Orthodox Christians almost every Sunday, and his homilies are considered by many to be the best every produced.This collection brings together the full range of his extant works in the English language. The following works are provided:1. Homilies on the Gospel of St. Matthew2. Homilies on Acts3. Homilies on Romans4. Homilies on First Corinthians5. Homilies on Second Corinthians6. Homilies on Ephesians7. Homilies on Philippians8. Homilies on Colossians9. Homilies on First Thessalonians10. Homilies on Second Thessalonians11. Homilies on First Timothy12. Homilies on Second Timothy13. Homilies on Titus14. Homilies on Philemon15. Commentary on Galatians16. Homilies on the Gospel of John17. Homilies on the Epistle to the Hebrews18. Homilies on the Statues19. No One Can Harm the Man Who Does Not Injure Himself20. Two Letters to Theodore After His Fall21. Letter to a Young Widow22. Homily on St. Ignatius23. Homily on St. Babylas24. Homily Concerning "Lowliness of Mind"25. Instructions to Catechumens26. Three Homilies on the Power of Satan27. Homily on the Passage "Father, if it be possible . . ."28. Homily on the Paralytic Lowered Through the Roof29. Homily on the Passage "If your enemy hunger, feed him."30. Homily Against Publishing the Errors of the Brethren31. First Homily on Eutropius32. Second Homily on Eutropius (After His Captivity)33. Four Letters to Olympias34. Letter to Some Priests of Antioch35. Correspondence with Pope Innocent I36. On the Priesthood

The Price of God's Miracle Working Power


A.A. Allen - 2011
    In the Methodist church where I was converted and of which I became a member, I was not taught to expect to be baptized with the Holy Ghost as the first disciples were on the day of Pentecost, nor to expect the signs mentioned in Mark 16:17,18 to follow me as a believer in the Lord. I was taught to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, and was gloriously saved, and set free from condemnation for sin. Then as I searched the Scriptures, asking God to lead me to those readings from which I would receive the greatest benefit, the Lord began to reveal to me the truths of the baptism of the Holy Ghost, the signs following, the gifts of the spirit, and the supernatural things of God." Asa A. Allen was a controversial evangelist with a Pentecostal healing and deliverance ministry. He was associated with the "Voice of Healing" movement founded by Gordon Lindsay. Allen became one of the first to develop a national television ministry. His television programs frequently included excerpts from his "healing line" ministry.

One-to-One Bible Reading: A Simple Guide for Every Christian


David R. Helm - 2011
    That guided people in a deeper, more meaningful way than an event, program or class could possibly do—guided on an individual basis by someone who cared for them personally.What is this way? What is this activity that is so simple and so universal that it meets the discipleship needs of very different people at very different stages of discipleship, even non-Christians?We call it reading the Bible one-to-one.But what exactly is reading the Bible one-to-one? Why should we do it? Who is it for?In One-to-One Bible Reading: a simple guide for every Christian, David Helm answers these important questions.About the AuthorDavid Helm is a pastor at Holy Trinity Church in Chicago, and Chairman of The Charles Simeon Trust, a ministry devoted to equipping expository preachers. He longs for all Christians to read God’s word for themselves and with others.

The Book of Common Prayer: The Texts of 1549, 1559, and 1662


Brian Cummings - 2011
    For nearly 500 years, and for countless people, it has provided a background fanfare for a marriage or a funeral march at a burial. Yet this familiarity also hides a violent and controversial history. When it was first produced the Book of Common Prayer provoked riots and rebellion, and it was banned before being translated into a host of global languages and adopted as the basis for worship in the USA and elsewhere to the present day.This edition presents the work in three different states: the first edition of 1549, which brought the Reformation into people's homes; the Elizabethan prayer book of 1559, familiar to Shakespeare and Milton; and the edition of 1662, which embodies the religious temper of the nation down to modern times.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Taking Hold of God: Reformed and Puritan Perspectives on Prayer


Joel R. Beeke - 2011
    The writings of the Reformers and Puritans shine with the glory of God in Christ, offering us much wisdom and insight today that can make our own prayer lives more informed, more extensive, more fervent, and more effectual. Six contemporary scholars explore the writings and prayer lives of several Reformers and Puritans—among them Martin Luther, John Calvin, William Perkins, Matthew Henry, and Jonathan Edwards—guiding us to growth in prayer and a more grateful communion with God. Table of Contents: 1. Martin Luther on Prayer and Reformation - Brian G. Najapfour 2. John Calvin on Prayer as Communion with God - Joel R. Beeke 3. John Knox: A Theologian of Prayer - Brian G. Najapfour 4. William Perkins on the Lord's Prayer - J. Stephen Yuille 5. Anthony Burgess on Christ's Prayer for Us - Joel R. Beeke 6. John Bunyan on Praying with the Holy Spirit - Michael A.G. Haykin 7. The Puritans on the Help of the Holy Spirit in Prayer - Johnny C. Serafini 8. Matthew Henry on a Practical Method of Daily Prayer - Joel R. Beeke 9. Thomas Boston on Praying to Our Father - Joel R. Beeke 10. Jonathan Edwards on Prayer and the Triune God - Peter Beck 11. Puritan Prayers for World Missions - Joel R. Beeke 12. Prayerful Praying Today - Joel R. Beeke

Defiant Grace: The Surprising Message and Mission of Jesus


Dane C. Ortlund - 2011
    Why? Because the open welcome of divine grace that Jesus offered, open to anyone who would simply leave their moral resume at home, is not predictable. It is not safe. It is defiant. This book exists to exult in this good news and the scandalous mercy Jesus loves to pour out on needy sinners--on people like you and me.

Feasting on the Word: Year A, Volume 3: Pentecost and Season After Pentecost 1


David L. Bartlett - 2011
    Now complete, the twelve volumes of the series cover all the Sundays in the three-year lectionary cycle, along with movable occasions, such as Christmas Day, Epiphany, Holy Week, and All Saints' Day.For each lectionary text, preachers will find four brief essays-one each on the theological, pastoral, exegetical, and homiletical challenges of the text. This gives preachers sixteen different approaches to the proclamation of the Word on any given occasion.The editors and contributors to this series are world-class scholars, pastors, and writers representing a variety of denominations and traditions. And while the twelve volumes of the series follow the pattern of the Revised Common Lectionary, each volume contains an index of biblical passages so that nonlectionary preachers, as well as teachers and students, may make use of its contents.

Don't Waste Your Cancer


John Piper - 2011
    With pastoral sensitivity, compassion, and strength, Piper gently but firmly acknowledges that we can indeed waste our cancer when we don't see how it is God's good plan for us and a hope-filled path for making much of Jesus.Don't Waste Your Cancer is for anyone touched by a life-threatening illness. It first appeared as an appendix in Suffering and the Sovereignty of God. Repackaged and republished, it will serve as a hope-giving resource for healthcare workers, pastors, counselors, and others caring for those with cancer and other serious illnesses. The booklets are also available in packs of ten.

Everyday Church: Gospel Communities on Mission


Tim Chester - 2011
    We recognize the need to adapt, but are unsure of the way forward. This book offers practical ideas for engaging with secularized society and does so in a way that is enfranchising, helping churches rely on their members instead of one leader with a dynamic personality or specialist skills. Chester and Timmis contend that the solution is an "everyday church" doing everyday mission with no signage except our lives. They organize the book around a missional reading of 1 Peter, since Peter's first-century readers faced a similar situation as aliens and strangers. Gifted communicators and experienced pastors, these authors have proven their ability to be winsome and enlightening, especially in view of their success with Total Church and You Can Change.

A Basket of Summer Fruit


Susannah Spurgeon - 2011
    Out of the joy of their hearts they trill forth their gladness for the sunshine, and the opening flowers, and the unfolding leaves; and I have heard the same tender song when the rain has fallen, and cold winds have blown, and dark clouds have swept across the sky. Many a time have the birds in the garden at "West­wood" sung a lesson in my listening ears, and rebuked my dullness or my unbelief by their gleeful carolings.Ah! dear friends, some of us do not praise our God half enough. We "raise an Eben­ezer" now and then; but we pitifully fail to obey the com­mand. "Rejoice in the Lord alway." Yet, how much we have to bless Him for, and what sweet encouragement is given to our gratitude by His assur­ance, "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me"! How often are we told, in His Word, that He takes delight in our thanks­givings and songs! The praise we render is dearer to Him than that of angels, for they cannot bless Him for redeeming love, for pardoned sin, and the blessed hope of resurrection glory.

Final Words: From the Cross


Adam Hamilton - 2011
    Despite the serious effort and increased pain required for Jesus to speak as he hung on the cross, Jesus spoke seven"final words"statements that have much to teach us about Jesus, his Father, and ourselves:•Father Forgive Them •Behold Your Son…Behold Your Mother •My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me? •Today You Will Be with Me in Paradise •I Thirst •It Is Finished •Into Your Hands I Commit My SpiritIn 24 Hours That Changed the World, Adam Hamilton took us on a Lenten journey through the last day of Jesus' life. Now in this inspiring follow-up book, Hamilton explores these final words as seen and heard through the eyes and ears of those who stood near the cross. Each chapter begins with the biblical account followed by a first-person story as might have been told from the viewpoint of one of the characters at the cross. Then the chapter explores the meaning of Jesus' dying words for our lives today. Following the last statement, a postscript recounts the words Jesus spoke following his resurrection, including what truly were the final words Jesus spoke while walking this earth.

Retrieving Nicaea: The Development and Meaning of Trinitarian Doctrine


Khaled Anatolios - 2011
    According to Anatolios, the development of trinitarian doctrine involved a global interpretation of Christian faith as a whole. Consequently, the meaning of trinitarian doctrine is to be found in a reappropriation of the process of this development, such that the entirety of Christian existence is interpreted in a trinitarian manner. The book provides essential resources for this reappropriation by identifying the network of theological issues that comprise the "systematic scope" of Nicene theology, focusing especially on the trinitarian perspectives of three major theologians: Athanasius, Gregory of Nyssa, and Augustine. It includes a foreword by Brian E. Daley.

Jesus of Nazareth: What He Wanted, Who He Was


Gerhard Lohfink - 2011
    A miracle-worker? A radical revolutionary? A wise teacher? There have been many of these, too. In his latest book, renowned Scripture scholar Gerhard Lohfink asks, What is unique about Jesus of Nazareth, and what did he really want?Lohfink engages the perceptions of the first witnesses of his life and ministry and those who handed on their testimony. His approach is altogether historical and critical, but he agrees with Karl Barth’s statement that “historical criticism has to be more critical.”Lohfink takes seriously the fact that Jesus was a Jew and lived entirely in and out of Israel’s faith experiences but at the same time brought those experiences to their goal and fulfillment. The result is a convincing and profound picture of Jesus.

Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts


Craig S. Keener - 2011
    Yet current research shows that human experience is far from uniform. In fact, hundreds of millions of people today claim to have experienced miracles. New Testament scholar Craig Keener argues that it is time to rethink Hume's argument in light of the contemporary evidence available to us. This wide-ranging and meticulously researched two-volume study presents the most thorough current defense of the credibility of the miracle reports in the Gospels and Acts. Drawing on claims from a range of global cultures and taking a multidisciplinary approach to the topic, Keener suggests that many miracle accounts throughout history and from contemporary times are best explained as genuine divine acts, lending credence to the biblical miracle reports.

Sacrilege: Finding Life in the Unorthodox Ways of Jesus


Hugh Halter - 2011
    Jesus's ability to woo people to him and win their hearts was directly related to how he challenged their assumptions about religion. He not only gave them a unique, personal way to follow him but also showed them how to participate with him in his mission.Sacrilege helps readers rethink what it really means to become like Jesus. It exposes the patterns of thinking that have held the church hostage for years and inspires readers to rethink the way they understand Scripture, family, spiritual formation, conversion, church, sin, and more.

The Researchers Library of Ancient Texts: Volume One -- The Apocrypha Includes the Books of Enoch, Jasher, and Jubilees


Thomas Horn - 2011
    This doctrinal position affirms that the Bible is unlike all other books or collections of works in that it is free of error due to having been given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). While no other text can claim this same unique authority, Apocryphal and Pseudepigraphal literature such as contained in this volume of The Researchers Library of Ancient Texts (Volume One The Apocrypha: Includes the Books of Enoch, Jasher, and Jubilees), provides literature that often precedes or follows the chronology of biblical texts, which frequently are used or assigned as supplemental works within academic settings to help students and scholars discover or better understand cultural and historical context within the Word of God. Whether or not the information contained in the apocryphal literature is entirely precise as is the canon of Scripture these ancient texts provide commentators valuable insight into what many ancient Jews and early Christians believed when, God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets (Heb. 1:1).The Researchers Library of Ancient Texts is therefore intended to be a supplemental resource for assisting serious researchers and students in the study of the Bible and Bible times. Contained in this volume: The Book of Enoch, The Book of Jasher, The Book of Jubilees, 1 Esdras, 2 Esdras, 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees, Tobias, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, Susanna, Prayer of Azariah, Prayer of Manasseh, Bel and the Dragon, and Laodiceans.

The Gospel Centered Life: Leader's Guide


Robert H. Thune - 2011
    The Gospel-Centered Life will challenge you to develop authentic relationships as the gospel moves you to love and serve others. Each lesson is self-contained, featuring clear teaching from scripture and requires no extra work outside of the group setting. Developed by experienced church-planting pastors, the material is designed to promote transformational conversations among groups of mature Christians, new Christians, and even non-Christians. The self-explanatory The Gospel-Centered Life Leader's Guide contains directions and added material to help small group and discipleship leaders clearly explain and apply the material.

Reverberation: How God's Word Brings Light, Freedom, and Action to His People


Jonathan Leeman - 2011
    the Word of God.  In this book, Jonathan Leeman wants you to realize that the Word, working through God's Spirit, is responsible for the growth of God's church and we need to trust it! Leeman not only informs and equips the leadership of local churches for greatest effectiveness in their preaching ministry but explains how to translate that into the life of the church throughout the week. The book also deals with two errors – not trusting the Word (resulting in a pragmatic ministry philosophy) and not living in light of the Word (resulting in a ministry philosophy of ‘preaching is enough’).Reverberation explains the pulpit ministry and traces the theme of how the Word continues through the life of the church.  Both theological and practical, Reverberation focuses on how the church hears, responds, discusses, implements and is transformed by the Word.  No high-octane production, superstar personalities, or postmodern entreaties, just stuff that is really old, really good, and really powerful!

Understanding Jesus: Cultural Insights into the Words and Deeds of Christ


Joe Amaral - 2011
    In UNDERSTANDING JESUS, author Joe Amaral delves deep into Jewish history, societal mores, and cultural traditions, closing the gap created by geographical distance and over two thousand years of history. Using a chronological approach to the life of Christ, he guides the reader through significant events such as Jesus' birth, baptism, and crucifixion, pointing out illuminating details that that the Western mind would normally miss. Amaral's premise is that to understand Jesus, we must understand the time and place in which he was born, the background from which he drew his illustrations, and the audience he spoke to. Throughout the book he explores specific terms, places, and events for their significance and shows how they add richness and meaning to the text. Topics include the connection between Jesus and John the Baptist, the annual Feasts and why they are important to modern Christianity, Jewish customs such as foot-washing, clean and unclean foods, paying tribute to political governments, and the significance of various miracles. In UNDERSTANDING JESUS, Amaral draws back the curtain on a way of life that existed during the reign of the Caesars, and in doing so, reveals truths about the way we live more than two thousand years later, half a world away.

When the Crosses Are Gone: Restoring Sanity to a World Gone Mad


Michael Youssef - 2011
    Similar patterns are emerging in America and the elimination of the Christian cross is one of the most significant symbols of that cultural decay. Today, forces are at work to strip this dangerous symbol from public venues and to minimize its significance. Many Muslim leaders are convinced that when Christianity disintegrates it will create a spiritual vacuum in the West-and their extreme brand of Islam will rush in to fill that void. They believe that Western civilization will become so decadent that America will collapse like a house of cards. Dr. Youssef writes that Christians must stand up against these attacks and defend the cross as a symbol of the love and grace of God, and he provides a diagnosis of the insanity of the current culture and a prescription for restoring sanity to a world gone mad.

The Collected Works and Sermons of Reverend Andrew Murray


Andrew Murray - 2011
    DAILY FELLOWSHIP WITH GODII. PRIVILEGE AND EXPERIENCEIII. CARNAL OR SPIRITUAL?IV. OUT OF AND INTOV. THE BLESSING SECUREDVI. THE PRESENCE OF CHRISTVII. A WORD TO WORKERSCONSECRATIONTHE LORD'S TABLEPREFACE:PART ITHE WEEK BEFORE THE SUPPERSABBATH MORNING THE DIVINE INVITATIONPRAYER.MONDAY MORNING THE PREPARATIONPRAYER.TUESDAY MORNING THE HOSTPRAYER.WEDNESDAY MORNING SELF-EXAMINATIONPRAYER.PRAYER. (FOR ONE WHO HAS DISCOVERED THAT JESUS CHRIST IS NOT IN HIM).THURSDAY MORNING CONFESSION OF SINPRAYER.FRIDAY MORNING FAITHPRAYER.SATURDAY MORNING AND EVENINGSATURDAY MORNING SELF-SURRENDERPRAYER.SATURDAY EVENING A PRAYER FOR THE HOLY SPIRITPART IITHE COMMUNION SABBATHTHE MORNING OF THE LORDS DAY AN EXERCISE OF FAITHI. TAKE, EATII. IN REMEMBRANCE OF MEIII. MY BLOODIV. THE NEW COVENANTV. UNTO REMISSION OF SINSVI. FOR MANYVII. FOR YOUVIII. ONE BODYIX. THE CUP OF BLESSINGX. TILL HE COMEA PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING TO THE HOLY TRINITY (FOR THE COMMUNION SABBATH EVENING)PART IIITHE WEEK AFTER THE SUPPERI. MONDAY MORNING THE POWER OF THE FOODPRAYER.II. TUESDAY MORNING SANCTIFICATIONPRAYER.III. WEDNESDAY MORNING OBEDIENCEPRAYER.IV. THURSDAY MORNING WORKPRAYER.V. FRIDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP WITH JESUSPRAYER.VI. SATURDAY MORNING THE ENDPRAYER.APPENDIXI. SELF-EXAMANATIONII. CHRIST IN THE SUPPERTHE MASTER’S INDWELLINGCARNAL CHRISTIANS.I.THE SELF LIFE.II.WAITING ON GODIII.

Who Is My Enemy?: Questions American Christians Must Face about Islam--And Themselves


Lee C. Camp - 2011
    On one hand is the notion that Christianity is superior to Islam and that Muslims are warmongers. On the other is the notion that all religions basically say the same thing and are peaceable. Theologian and critically acclaimed author Lee Camp argues that both these extremes are wrong. He introduces Christian and Islamic views on war and peacemaking and examines Christian and non-Christian terrorism to help readers confront their own prejudices. Camp shatters misconceptions about religious violence, arguing that American Christians often opt for an ethic that has more in common with the story of Muhammad than with the story of Jesus. This book shows readers how to respond faithfully and intelligently to Muslims in today's world as well as to the New Atheists who suppose that all religion is inherently violent. It provides balanced teaching on war and peacemaking, offering hope for reconciliation in a post-9/11 world.

Getting Back In The Race: The Cure For Backsliding


Joel R. Beeke - 2011
    As easy to overlook as it is dangerous. Backsliding is the worst thing that can happen to anyone claiming faith in Jesus. Learn the diagnosis. Experience the cure. The Christian life is a race. Through the gospel, God summons us to sustained and persevering effort. He empowers his children by grace-free and undeserved blessing through Christ. But he does not carry them to heaven on flowery beds of ease. Faith is a living, athletic grace. God's mercy motivates Christians and energizes them to press on and overcome great obstacles. Christ blazed the trail before us. He now calls us to follow Him to the end (Hebrews 12:1-2). Looking unto Jesus-that is how we persevere. In him is everything we need. But realistically speaking, Christians are not always pressing forward. Sometimes they wander off the narrow path, slip, and injure themselves. To the confused and injured runner, this book says, "God can help you. You can finish this race-and finish it well." Drawing from the wisdom of the Scriptures and aided by the insights of godly Bible teachers through the centuries, Getting Back in the Race addresses the age-old problem of backsliding. Backsliding is a season in the life of a professing Christian when his sin grows stronger and his obedience to God declines. The beginning of the book uncovers signs of sliding into a spiritual rut, for this is often more subtle than falling into scandalous sins. The rest of the book shows that there is hope for the backslider. God is so amazing! Even though our backsliding insults him, dishonors him, grieves him, and pushes away his love, still He calls us to return to him. When you grasp hold of God's methods by faith, you discover that Christ has grasped hold of you. Our spiritual Physician has potent medicines to heal his people from their injuries and get them back on track to finish the race. This book is a wake-up call to careless Christians and an encouragement to all believers to keep running to the Lord.

What Shall We Say?: Evil, Suffering, and the Crisis of Faith


Thomas G. Long - 2011
    Is God all-powerful? Is God good? How can God allow so much innocent human suffering?These questions, taken together, have been called the "theodicy problem," and in this book Thomas Long explores what preachers can and should say in response. Long reviews the origins and history of the theodicy problem and engages the work of major thinkers who have posed solutions to it. Cautioning pastors not to ignore urgent theodicy-related questions arising from their parishioners, he offers biblically based approaches to preaching on theodicy, guided by Jesus' parable of the wheat and the tares and the "greatest theodicy text in Scripture" -- the book of Job.

Through the Advent Door: Entering a Contemplative Christmas


Jan L. Richardson - 2011
    Like an Advent calendar, each day opens a new door, offering rich treasures that beckon us deep into this sacred season. Author and artist Jan Richardson accompanies us with images and reflections that are imbued with ancient stories, practices, and traditions. A gift to savor every day. 26 illustrations in color.

Radical Forgiveness: God's Call to Unconditional Love


Brian Zahnd - 2011
    Not a new innovation or novel interpretation, but a return to our roots. For if Christianity is not about forgiveness, it’s about nothing at all.Beginning with the horror of the Holocaust, Radical Forgiveness explores what forgiveness means--and how far it should go--in the real world of rape, child abuse, genocide, and other atrocities. With honesty and compassion Zahnd tackles questions such as... Should we always forgive? Is forgiveness always even possible? Does forgiveness enable evil? Does it sacrifice justice? Are there ANY limits?Pushing you beyond intellectual exercises, Radical Forgiveness will challenge your thinking by juxtaposing absolutely bottom-line examples with the simple question: What would you do?Previously published as Unconditional?

Unveiled: The Transforming Power of God's Presence and Voice


Alan Smith - 2011
    We struggle with the same issues day after day, year after year, and wonder, Can anything ever really be different?Scripture talks about transformation. Paul says we should be transformed by renewing our minds. How do we do that? What does it even mean?In his new book, Unveiled: The Transforming Power of God’s Presence and Voice, Alan Smith seeks to unveil an all too often hidden aspect of the Christian faith. Through personal stories, solid biblical teaching, and practical application, Alan brings clarity to this essential truth: real, lasting transformation happens when we experience God’s presence and hear His voice.

A Brief Life of Christ


Fulton J. Sheen - 2011
    Sheen turned his voice and pen to many subjects during the course of a long and remarkable apostolate. But nothing came closer to the core of his message than bringing the life and saving words of Jesus to the problems of modern life and the modern world. In A Brief Life of Christ, Sheen employs the twin pillars of faith and reason to draw out the meaning of the life of Jesus for our times. He pointedly shows how Christ issues His challenge alike to nations, peoples, and individual souls. The final chapters on Christ's public life, and Passion, Death, and Resurrection contain tremendous insights and provide material for a lifetime of reflection. Fulton Sheen was unparalleled in his ability to combine theology, devotion, and the profoundest meditation on the central events of the Christian narrative. Displayed here in full are the literary and rhetorical skills of one of the greatest preachers of the 20th century. A Brief Life of Christ is a book to lift our hearts and place them securely in the timeless message of the gospels.

Gospel Wakefulness


Jared C. Wilson - 2011
    Wilson reminds us of the death-proof, fail-proof King of kings who is before all things and in all things and holding all things together, and of the Spirit's power to quicken our hearts and captivate our imaginations. The message of Gospel Wakefulness will make numbness the exception (rather than the norm) and reawaken us to the multifaceted brilliance of the gospel.

Beauty for Ashes


Zac Poonen - 2011
    Of all created beings, man alone was created with the capacity to share in God's life and to partake of the Divine nature. But he could enjoy this privilege only as he voluntarily chose to live a life centred in God.God's purpose for man did not change when Adam fell. The coming of Christ into the world was in order that we might be delivered from this self-centred life that we have inherited, and once again have the opportunity to partake of the tree of life. This is the abundant life that Christ offers us.Isaiah had prophesied that Christ, when He came, would set people free from bondage. Man is bound not only by the Devil but also by his self-life. Christ came to set us free from both. Isaiah said that Christ would give those He liberated, beauty to replace their ashes. Ashes are a most appropriate symbol of the self-life - picturing its ugliness and its uselessness. Christ offers to give us the beauty of His own life to replace the ashes of our self-life. What a privilege? Yet many Christians do not enjoy this fully. Why not?How can we enjoy it?That is the subject of this book. Read on.....

Select Letters of John Newton


John Newton - 2011
    ‘Once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa,’ he wrote for his own epitaph, ‘by the rich mercy of Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long laboured to destroy’.It was through his correspondence that Newton fulfilled his distinctive work as ‘the letter writer par excellence of the Evangelical Revival’. His grasp of Scripture and deep personal experience, his many friends (among them, George Whitefield, William Cowper and William Wilberforce), his manifold trials, his country pastorate, his strong, clear, idiomatic style — all these factors combined to prepare the author of ‘How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds’, for the exercise of his special gift.These practical letters cover a wide variety of subjects and aim ‘to conform the believer to Christ’.

KJV Bible with Strong's Markup and Dictionary of the Bible


James Strong - 2011
    The presentation and navigation are designed specifically for the Kindle.Description of the KJV The King James Version of the Bible, also known as the Authorized Version, the King James Bible, and the KJV, is an English translation of the Bible. It was completed in 1611 and updated in 1769. It continues to be widely used today. This e-book contains both the Old Testament and the New Testament. It preserves the paragraph structure of the KJV.Description of Strong's Classic Work Strong's concise dictionary of Biblical Greek and Hebrew (including Aramaic as well), like his concordance, is a classic reference work for biblical studies in the English-speaking world and is accessible to the layperson. Each word in Biblical Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic is numbered, presented in Greek/Hebrew script and in transliteration and is accompanied by a pronunciation guide. Each word is defined in English, and the translation(s) of that word in the Authorized English Version are presented. Strong's work was originally published in 1890 under the titles A Concise Dictionary of the Words in the Hebrew Bible; with their Renderings in the Authorized English Version and A Concise Dictionary of the Words in the Greek New Testament; with their Renderings in the Authorized English Version. They were bound together with Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. PublisherThis digital version is produced by Miklal Software Solutions, Inc., which provides software solutions for biblical studies, Semitics, and digital humanities.

Directions for Daily Communion with God


Matthew Henry - 2011
    They were originally published in 1712 and their counsel remains just as applicable today.The devotional life of every Christian depends on maintaining a close walk with the Lord and the principles set out here are both biblical and practical.

What Would Jesus Drink? A Spirit-Filled Study


Joel McDurmon - 2011
    In reality though, the only view that matters is the biblical one. Whether Christians want to imbibe or abstain, the first question that must be answered is "What Would Jesus Drink?"With a compelling combination of biblical theology, scriptural exegesis, and Jewish cultural history, author Joel McDurmon takes on the question with a clarity and honesty that is as refreshing as it is rare.Taking a neutral corner in any debate is not McDurmon's style, and it is certainly not the strategy of this book. He does not stop with simply answering the title question, instead he goes on to show that food and drink, and the act of eating or drinking itself, have for far too long been taken for granted by modern Christians.What Would Jesus Drink? A Spirit-Filled Study is not just another dull book about Christian doctrine and practice; it is a rich and full study of the goodness and grace of God. It is an intensely practical book about the joy of celebration and the blessings of covenant community.

The Problem of Suffering


Gregory P. Schulz - 2011
    Without relying on clichés and offering no immediate fix, Schulz protests against "God's abusive actions," a cry that rings true to anyone whose suffering of body or spirit is compounded by the deeper agony of a bewildered, uncertain faith. This resource is intended for anyone suffering any form of loss. It is honest, straightforward, expressive, evocative of much reflection and insight, and linked closely to the Suffering Savior.

Junia Is Not Alone


Scot McKnight - 2011
    But Junia's tragedy is not hers alone. She's joined by fellow women in the Bible whose stories of bold leadership have been overlooked. She's in the company of visionary women of God throughout the centuries whose names we've forgotten, whose stories go untold, and whose witness we neglect to celebrate.But Junia is also joined by women today--women who are no longer silent and who are experiencing a re-voicing as they respond to God's call to lead us into all truth. (Patheos Press)

The Three Forms of Unity: Subordinate Doctrinal Standards


Christian Reformed Church - 2011
    

Addiction and Virtue: Beyond the Models of Disease and Choice


Kent J. Dunnington - 2011
    Drawing on the insights of Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas, he formulates an alternative to the usual reductionistic models.Going further, Dunnington maintains that addiction is not just a problem facing individuals. Its pervasiveness sheds prophetic light on our cultural moment. Moving beyond issues of individual treatment, this groundbreaking study also outlines significant implications for ministry within the local church context.

Genesis 1 as Ancient Cosmology


John H. Walton - 2011
    In this task, we are aided by the ever-growing corpus of literature that is being recovered and analyzed.After an introduction that presents some of the history of comparative studies and how it has been applied to the study of ancient texts in general and cosmology in particular, Walton focuses in the first half of this book on the ancient Near Eastern texts that inform our understanding about ancient ways of thinking about cosmology. Of primary interest are the texts that can help us discern the parameters of ancient perspectives on cosmic ontology—that is, how the writers perceived origins. Texts from across the ancient Near East are presented, including primarily Egyptian, Sumerian, and Akkadian texts, but occasionally also Ugaritic and Hittite, as appropriate. Walton’s intention, first of all, is to understand the texts but also to demonstrate that a functional ontology pervaded the cognitive environment of the ancient Near East. This functional ontology involves more than just the idea that ordering the cosmos was the focus of the cosmological texts. He posits that, in the ancient world, bringing about order and functionality was the very essence of creative activity. He also pays close attention to the ancient ideology of temples to show the close connection between temples and the functioning cosmos.The second half of the book is devoted to a fresh analysis of Genesis 1:1–2:4. Walton offers studies of significant Hebrew terms and seeks to show that the Israelite texts evidence a functional ontology and a cosmology that is constructed with temple ideology in mind, as in the rest of the ancient Near East. He contends that Genesis 1 never was an account of material origins but that, as in the rest of the ancient world, the focus of “creation texts” was to order the cosmos by initiating functions for the components of the cosmos. He further contends that the cosmology of Genesis 1 is founded on the premise that the cosmos should be understood in temple terms. All of this is intended to demonstrate that, when we read Genesis 1 as the ancient document it is, rather than trying to read it in light of our own world view, the text comes to life in ways that help recover the energy it had in its original context. At the same time, it provides a new perspective on Genesis 1 in relation to what have long been controversial issues. Far from being a borrowed text, Genesis 1 offers a unique theology, even while it speaks from the platform of its contemporaneous cognitive environment.

How to Study the Bible


Michael S. Heiser - 2011
    

Grieving, Hope and Solace: When a Loved One Dies in Christ


Albert N. Martin - 2011
    What exactly happens to those who die as Christians? What do they immediately experience? What is their existence like right now? What will happen to them when Christ returns to earth? These questions can be especially acute for grieving loved ones who remain. What comfort and assurance does Scripture offer you? What can you truly know and be confident of? These are the questions and concerns that faced Pastor Albert N. Martin following the death of his wife of nearly 50 years. He knew that, if he were to grieve in a way that glorified God, he needed to know the answers to those questions, as clearly as possible, directly from Scripture. This book is the product of his grief, his tears, his travails, his prayers, and his concentrated study of God's Word. A beloved pastor and widely respected preacher for half a century, Albert Martin handles Scripture with the greatest of skill, care, wisdom, and respect. In this book, you will learn what God tells us with regard to the burning questions that so often accompany the death of a loved one in Christ. There is comfort for the grief. There are answers to the questions. The Bible does offer hope, solace, healing, and confidence. Pastor Albert Martin has been there. Let him share with you the deep comfort, encouragement, and joy that he found, through Scripture, in the midst of his grieving.

Counterfeit Gospels: Rediscovering the Good News in a World of False Hope


Trevin K. Wax - 2011
    Within that overarching framework, we make the Gospel Announcement about Jesus Christ (His perfect life, substitutionary death, resurrection, exaltation). The gospel announcement then births the Gospel Community: God’s church – the embodiment of the gospel, the manifestation of God’s kingdom.  A counterfeit gospel is like a colony of termites, eating away at one of the legs of this stool until the whole thing topples over. This book exposes six common counterfeits (Therapeutic, Judgmentless, Moralist, Quietist, Activist, and Churchless) that would get us off track.The goal of Counterfeit Gospels is to so deepen our love for the unchanging gospel of Jesus Christ that we would easily see through the many counterfeits that leave us impoverished. So come, love the gospel, recognize and overcome the counterfeits, and be empowered for ministry!

Leaving Egypt: Finding God in the Wilderness Places


Chuck DeGroat - 2011
    The Israelites' liberation from Egypt and journey to the promised land is one the Bible's most compelling stories a breathtaking account of competing wills, freedom and slavery, faith and doubt.But the Exodus isn't just a long-ago Bible story. It's the overarching theme of every person's life. We each find ourselves enslaved: to work, to destructive relationships, to food, to spending . . . but beyond our personal Egypt lies God's promised land.In Leaving Egypt, Chuck DeGroat shows how our wilderness journey helps us face our fears, receive our new identity, experience transformation, and live into our new found freedom.Discussion questions for personal or small group use follow each chapter.

Hope Against Darkness: The Transforming Vision of Saint Francis in an Age of Anxiety


John Feister - 2011
    It makes Francis a man for all seasons....- from Chapter SevenRichard Rohr is a modern prophet calling us to change our ways. Rohr paints a critical picture of the prevailing thought, culture and attitudes of the present-day West which he calls The Postmodern Opportunity including our cultural biases, our embrace of victimhood, our often fearful attitudes toward one another and toward the Church and religion in general. Rohr offers hope in introducing the Franciscan path of transformation, the new way of being that would change the face of history.Rohr describes how following Saint Francis way to forgiveness and love, and owning the darkness, can bring us out of the postmodern pit in which we find ourselves.

Grace: The DNA of God: What the Bible Says about Grace and Its Life-Transforming Power


Tony Cooke - 2011
    Tony Cooke takes the reader on a journey of not only understanding but also experiencing the grace of God. The grace of God is multi-faceted, having application in every area of the believer's life.He explores:Saving grace Sanctifying grace Strengthening grace Sharing grace Serving grace Grace is never a cop-out; rather, it is a catalyst that powerfully enables us to be and to do all that God has called us to become and accomplish.Not only does this book explain what grace provides, but it also discusses what grace produces. As you learn to partake freely and fully of God's grace, you will be able to say with the Apostle Paul, "By the grace of God I am what I am."(1 Corinthians 15:10).

On Being Pentecostal


David K. Bernard - 2011
    Although it has become much more common in recent years, its roots go back to an ancient Jewish feast and, more recently, to the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the earliest Christian believers. Take a few moments of your time and learn what it means to be Pentecostal.

Relentless Hope: Extracting the Precious from the Worthless


Beth Guckenberger - 2011
    I want to hear and see and experience challenges, difficulties, and setbacks and not immediately focus on the failure. Rather, I want to train my eyes to ‘extract the precious’ (Jeremiah 15:19, NASB)—the precious promises, truths, and intimacy God has written into the seemingly worthless pain, setbacks, and suffering we endure.”Beth’s compelling stories—interwoven with the wisdom of Scripture—will resonate with anyone seeking to find purpose in the midst of pain. Though people may feel confused, lost, or abandoned, there is hope. God is writing the story of our lives, and the story’s not over yet.This story-driven book:• delivers honest testimonies from unique voices whose stories are living and real—they don’t all have the "happy endings," but they all carry truth and hope• speaks to orphaned souls and those who have just felt that way: parents agonizing over prodigal children, addicts, people enduring physical, mental, or spiritual suffering, and people of all types who have lost something—parents, spouses, family, jobs, innocence, a chance . . . their way• brings up challenging questions and sticky situations that we are often afraid to face• offers useful and meaningful messages for the individual reader, pastors, families, church leaders, and small groups• is written by a compelling, dynamic storyteller who lives on the edge and exemplifies with integrity what it means to trust God in the midst of a myriad of challenges

The Emergent Christ: Exploring the Meaning of Catholic in an Evolutionary Universe


Ilia Delio - 2011
    As Teilhard de Chardin did in The Divine Milieu, Ilia Delio reveals the sacrament of God at work in the world. She also explores the spiritual evolution within each of us and suggests that it will change the cosmos as well as the church. She shows that we are at a stage in evolution where our choices will determine what happens next. "Love," she writes, "always seeks the best for the beloved but God is a beggar of love who waits at the soul's door without daring to force it open. The question of Christ emerging as the personal center of the universe is not a question of yes or no but a question of how that love will evolve." She makes one thing perfectly clear: it is happening and the evidence is astounding.The Emergent Christ is an antidote to the new atheism that says there is no place in evolution for God, let alone a God of love. It is also a spiritual tonic for Christians interested in understanding their place and purpose in this evolving universe.

How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home


Derek W.H. Thomas - 2011
    Derek W.H. Thomas explores Romans 8, which he calls “the best chapter in the Bible.” Here he finds an exposition of the steps through which God leads His people in the process of their salvation, but also loving counsel on such topics as prayer and resisting the Devil, as well as exhortations and comforts for weary pilgrims. Dr. Thomas begins at Romans 8:1 with “the best news imaginable”—believers’ just and deserved condemnation before God has been taken away by Jesus Christ’s work on the cross. He then contrasts earthly minded and spiritually minded people, showing that only those who are spiritually minded know life.In Romans 8:29–30, he explores several steps in the process of salvation—foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and, finally, glorification—which show God’s invincible purpose in redemption. Finally, he unfolds the powerful promise of the final few verses of Romans 8: nothing can separate those God has redeemed from His saving love. How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home is a powerful exploration of the manifold gifts the heavenly Father has lavished upon His people–and a preview of the greater inheritance that lies ahead.

In Season: Embracing the Father's Process of Fruitfulness


Wayne Jacobsen - 2011
    Embracing the Father's Process of Fruitfulness

Theology of Jonathan Edwards


Michael James McClymond - 2011
    The Theology of Jonathan Edwards is the most comprehensive survey of his theology yet produced and the first study to make full use of the recently-completed seventy-three-volume online edition of the Works of Jonathan Edwards. The book's forty-five chapters examine all major aspects of Edwards's thought and include in-depth discussions of the extensive secondary literature on Edwards as well as Edwards's own writings. Its opening chapters set out Edwards's historical and personal theological contexts. The next thirty chapters connect Edwards's theological loci in the temporally-ordered way in which he conceptualized the theological enterprise-beginning with the triune God in eternity with his angels to the history of redemption as an expression of God's inner reality ad extra, and then back to God in eschatological glory. The authors analyze such themes as aesthetics, metaphysics, typology, history of redemption, revival, and true virtue. They also take up such rarely-explored topics as Edwards's missiology, treatment of heaven and angels, sacramental thought, public theology, and views of non-Christian religions. Running throughout the volume are what the authors identify as five basic theological constituents: trinitarian communication, creaturely participation, necessitarian dispositionalism, divine priority, and harmonious constitutionalism. Later chapters trace his influence on and connections with later theologies and philosophies in America and Europe. The result is a multi-layered analysis that treats Edwards as a theologian for the twenty-first-century global Christian community, and a bridge between the Christian West and East, Protestantism and Catholicism, conservatism and liberalism, and charismatic and non-charismatic churches.

Smooth Stones Taken from Ancient Brooks: Being a Collection of Sentences, Illustrations, and Quaint Sayings from That Renowned Puritan, Thomas Brooks


Charles Haddon Spurgeon - 2011
    Gathered by Spurgeon out of the 6 volume set of Brook's Works, it remains an excellent introduction to both the man and his writings.

The Doctrines of Grace in John


Steven J. Lawson - 2011
    Yet when we consider this famous verse in the context of John’s entire Gospel, we see that the love of God that leads to salvation is reserved only for those whom the Father has given unto His Son. In this series, Steven Lawson demonstrates that the Gospel of John offers one of the clearest presentations of the doctrines of grace in all of Scripture, revealing that salvation is all of God from beginning to end. Standard-definition DVD. Twelve 23–minute messages, including Spanish navigation and dubbed equivalent.

The Works of John Owen: The Mortification Of Sin, Catechisms, Of Justification by Faith, Pneumatologia, Of Communion with God the Father, Son and Holy ... (27 Books With Active Table of Contents)


John Owen - 2011
    1-2)Christologia or, a Declaration of the Glorious Mystery of the Person of Christ: God and ManGospel Grounds and Evidences of the Faith of God's ElectMeditations and Discourses on the Glory of Christ in His Person, Office, and GraceOf Communion with God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, Each Person Distinctly, in Love, Grace, and ConsolationOf Temptation: The Nature and Power of it; The Danger of Entering into it; And the Means of Preventing that DangerOf the Mortification of Sin in Believers; The Necessity, Nature, and Means of ItPneumatologia: Or, A Discourse Concerning the Holy SpiritSeveral Practical Cases of Conscience ResolvedSalus electorum, sanguis Jesu; Or, The Death of Death in the Death of ChristThe Doctrine of the Saints' Perseverance Explained and Confirmed; Or The certain Permanency of their Acceptation with GOD, and Sanctification from GODThe Complete Sermons (Vol.1-2)Vindiciæ Evangelicæ: Or, the Mystery of the Gospel Vindicated and Socinianism ExaminedThe Greater Catechism.The Lesser Catechism.A Review of the Annotations of Hugo Grotius in Reference unto the Doctrine of the Deity and Satisfaction of Christ; With a Defence of the Charge Formerly Laid Against Them.PoemaPosthumous SermonsThe Doctrine of Justification by Faith, through the Imputation of the Righteousness of Christ; Explained, Confirmed, and VindicatedThree Discourses Suitable to the Lord's SupperABOUT THE AUTHOR:John Owen was an English Nonconformist church leader, theologian, and academic administrator at the University of Oxford.

The Day of Worship: Reassessing the Christian Life in Light of the Sabbath


Ryan M. McGraw - 2011
    The General Importance of Sabbath2. The Importance of God’s Day of Worship3. The Presuppositions of Isaiah 58:13–144. Revisiting Isaiah 58:13–145. Worldliness6. What Is Missing?7. The Reformed Application of the Law8. Some General Practical Observations9. Legalism?10. The Eternal SabbathAppendix 1: Warfield on Foundations of the SabbathAppendix 2: Review of Jay Adams’s Keeping the Sabbath Today?

Doctors of the Church


Benedict XVI - 2011
    They faced opposition and exile. They lived in periods of confusion and conflict. Their teachings and insights not only brought peace and understanding to the Church of their time, but continue to anchor the Church of today. They brought clarity to the fragments and simplicity to the complex.They used speeches, documents, poems, and songs to reach the people of their time. Now Pope Benedict XVI explores the lives and significance of thirty-two of the Doctors of the Church like no one else can. Taken directly from the pope's addresses in his weekly audiences, Doctors of the Church is an incredible journey through time to better understand these individuals who explored and explained the critical questions of the Church.---Who is Christ?---How do we know Christ?---How do we act as Christ's disciples?---How are we in Christ?

Invitation to Biblical Interpretation: Exploring the Hermeneutical Triad of History, Literature, and Theology


Andreas J. Köstenberger - 2011
    This approach to interpretation is based on giving due consideration to both the historical setting and the literary context, as well the theological message. Working through the major genres of Scripture and showing how their method applies to each one, they provide interpretive examples to guide the student in proper exegesis. In addition to the examples, each chapter concludes with exercises and assignments. Also included is a helpful "Building a Biblical Studies Library" appendix.

The Essential Works Of Thomas Watson


Thomas Watson - 2011
    The Essential Works of Thomas Watson includes 15 classic writings from the beloved Puritan.Contents:-A Body Of Divinity-The Doctrine Of Repentance-A Divine Cordial (All Things For Good)-Religion Our True Interest (The Great Gain Of Godliness)-The Godly Man's Picture (Abridged)-The Beatitudes-The Art Of Divine Contentment-The Lord's Prayer-The Ten Commandments-The Christian Soldier, or Heaven Taken By Storm-The Mischief Of Sin-The Christian's Charter-The Duty Of Self-Denial-A Christian On The Mount: A Treatise Concerning Meditation-Sermon On The Eve Of The Great Ejection

A New Harmony: The Spirit, the Earth, and the Human Soul


J. Philip Newell - 2011
    PhilipNewell emphasized the Celtic view of the oneness of creationand humanity as expressed through Christ. In that poetic treatmentof the wisdom of Celtic spirituality, Newell pointed the way to amore peaceful, harmonious, integrated Christianity. A New Harmonytakes the next step forward in emphasizing the need to overcomedivisions and find common ground and to reclaim the best of ancientChristian spirituality and a more holistic, natural way of thinkingabout faith.Offers a view of spirituality rooted in ancient insights thatincludes and extends beyond ChristianityPresents the case for the need for "a new harmony" that is bothmystical and relationalThe author J. Philip Newell is a well-known expert on CelticChristianity and the author of the acclaimed Listening for theHeartbeat of God.

Creator Spirit: The Holy Spirit and the Art of Becoming Human


Steven R. Guthrie - 2011
    Examines areas of overlap between spirituality, human creativity, and the arts with the goal of refining how we speak and think about the Holy Spirit.

The Zondervan Greek and English Interlinear New Testament (NASB/NIV)


William D. Mounce - 2011
    This new, user-friendly reference tool for pastors, students, and scholars greatly enhances understanding of the Greek New Testament, as well as how to do word studies based on the G/K numbers. Featuring the interlinear text as a third translation, this interlinear Greek and English New Testament sets the NASB side by side with the NIV. It includes a unique Greek/English dictionary keyed to G/K numbers for easy accessibility to all users, as well as parsing and G/K numbers for each Greek word. This Zondervan interlinear Bible offers the following features: • The new interlinear translation flows in beautiful English • Greek words are grammatically explained and linked to the GK numbers • Includes a comprehensive dictionary of the Greek words • Unique Greek text depicts variations reflected in modern translations

The Complete Works of Jonathan Edwards: Christ Exalted, Sinners in the Hands of the Angry God, A Divine and Supernatural Light, Christian Knowledge, On ... (59 Books With Active Table of Contents)


Jonathan Edwards - 2011
    Memoirs of Jonathan Edwards, A. M.2. An Inquiry Into The Modern Prevailing Notions of The Freedom of Will3. A Dissertation Concerning The End For Which God Made The World4. A Dissertation Concerning The Nature of True Virtue5. The Great Christian Doctrine of Original Sin Defended: Evidences of Its Truth Produced and Arguments to The Contrary answered6. A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections 7. An Humble Inquiry Into The Rules of The Word of God: Concerning The Qualifications Requisite to A Complete Standing and Full Communion In The Visible Christian Church8. Misinterpretations Corrected, and Truth Vindicated9. A History of The Work of Redemption, Containing The Outlines of a Body of Divinity, Including a View of Church History10. Five Discourses On The Soul's Eternal Salvation11. God Glorified In Man's Dependence12. Sinners In The Hands of an Angry God13. A Divine and Supernatural Light, Immediately Imparted to The Soul By The Spirit of God, Shown to Be Both a Scriptural and Rational Doctrine14. Fifteen Sermons On Various Subjects15. Seven Sermons On Important Subjects16. Christian Knowledge: The Importance and Advantage of a Thorough Knowledge of Divine Truth17. The Wisdom of God, Displayed In The Way of Salvation18. Discourse On How Men Naturally Are God's Enemies19. Christian Cautions and The Necessity of Self-Examination20. Christian Charity: The Duty of Charity to The Poor, Explained and Enforced21. A Warning to Professors22. The Final Judgment: The World Judged Righteously By Jesus Christ23. Sinners In Zion Tenderly Warned:24. The End of The Wicked Contemplated By The Righteous: Or, The Torments of The Wicked In Hell, No Occasion of Grief to The Saints In Heavens25. Christ Exalted: Or, Jesus Christ Gloriously Exalted Above All Evil In The Work of Redemption26. Self-Flatteries: Or, The Vain Self-Flatteries of The Sinner27. Dishonesty: Or, The Sin of Theft and of Injustice28. Temptation and Deliverance: Joseph's Great Temptation and Gracious Deliverance29. The Preciousness of Time, and The Importance of Redeeming It30. Procrastination, Or The Sin and Folly of Depending On Future Time31. The Christian Pilgrim: The True Christian's Life a Journey Towards Heaven32. Man's Natural Blindness In The Things of Religion33. The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of The Spirit of God34. An Humble Attempt to Promote Explicit Agreement and Visible Union of God's People35. The Life and Diary of the Rev. David Brainerd With Notes and Reflection36. The Divinity of Christ and the Doctrine of the Trinity37. Miscellaneous Obeservation on Important Theological Subjects38. Remarks On Important Theological Controversies39. A Divine and Supernatural Light40. On The Natural Condition of Men41. The Sorrows of the Bereaved Spread Before Jesus42. Christ The Example of Ministers43. The True Exellence of a Gosple Minister44. Jesus Christ, The Same Yesterday, To-day, and Forever45. Christ Jesus: Abundant Foundation of Peace and Safety46. On The Wicked47. Thanksgiving Sermon48. On The Purity of The Heart49. On The Glory, Honor and Peace of The Christians50. The Description and Punishment of The Wicked51. On The Soul of Christ52. On The Imitation of Paul and The Apostles53. On The Bestowment of Great and Signal Mercies54. God's Sovereignty55.

A Treatise of Self-denial


Thomas Manton - 2011
    Do you deny yourself? Our Lord makes self-denial an essential mark of every true disciple, yet it is lit-tle-understood and much-ignored in our self-gratifying age. A Treatise of Self-denial turns our attention again to Christ’s warning: “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself” (Mat 16:24). The book is a Puritan classic: it is thorough, biblical, relevant, insightful, timeless, vital, God-honoring, convicting, and immensely important reading for every Christian. It is especially important for pastors, to restore to their preaching this fundamental doctrine. Manton skillfully and convincingly explores our need to deny self-dependence, self-will, self-love, and self-seeking. We pray your life will be transformed by reading and applying this exhortation.

Adam as Israel: Genesis 1-3 as the Introduction to the Torah and Tanakh


Seth D. Postell - 2011
    Thus Genesis 1-3, the Torah, and the Hebrew Bible as a whole have an eschatological trajectory. Postell highlights numerous intentional links between the story of Adam and the story of Israel and, in the process, explains numerous otherwise perplexing features of the Eden story. Endorsements: "Dr. Postell has written a brilliant treatise arguing that Genesis 1-3 serves as the literary introduction to the Pentateuch, and, indeed, the entire Tanakh. He is clearly conversant with all the relevant literature and he makes a persuasive case. This is a work that needs to be read carefully and taken seriously." --David M. Howard Jr. Professor of Old Testament Bethel University "In a stimulating study of the first three chapters of Genesis, Dr. Postell has argued convincingly that they were written as fitting prelude to and portent of the ensuing narrative. Instead of looking to presumed parallel or contrasting ancient creation accounts for its meaning, this study confirms that the opening narratives of the Pentateuch exhibit language and themes coherent with the entire narrative that follows. The persuasive argument expressed here points to the necessity of further studies of similar approach to the Hebrew Bible." --Robert Cole Associate Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary "To anyone who suspects that there is a divine order behind the compilation of the Hebrew Scriptures, this excellent work by Seth Postell will confirm that suspicion. Not only has he carefully described the methodology used in evangelical canonical research of the text, he has built upon the existing evidence to further substantiate the approach. Fresh new insights are always pleasing to the theological senses! Research professors and students alike will be strengthened in their devotion to the sacred text and spurred on to answer the research questions that naturally arise from this work." --Gregory Hagg Professor of Bible Exposition/Director The Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies Talbot School of Theology Author Biography: Seth D. Postell, formerly Assistant Professor of Old Testament at the Charles L. Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies (in partnership with Talbot School of Theology), is currently Lecturer in Biblical Studies at Israel College of the Bible in Netanya, Israel.

Dancing with Angels 2: The Role of the Holy Spirit and Open Heavens in Activating Your Angelic Visitations


Kevin Basconi - 2011
    Fascinating testimonies of ordinary people who saw and experienced the effects of the open heavens are shared—some are extremely supernatural in nature and are illustrated in great detail. This “nuts and bolts” theology about open heavens in relation to angelic visitations will change the way you look at angels and supernatural experiences—just one reason why so many people are being impacted so powerfully by this book. Dancing With Angels 2 is the second in a trilogy of books devoted to encountering and partnering with angelic ministry today.