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Book SynopsisIt doesn't matter who you are or what you've done, God wants a relationship with you.When we turn to the Lord, He is there waiting to forgive us and give us a purpose for our lives. Unfortunately, teens and adults are surrounded by so much noise from social media, the entertainment industry, drugs, pornography, the occult, bullying, and social expectations that it is nearly impossible to hear the truth of a God who will take them as they are. This book is written to help this generation kill that noise, so that teens and adults can hear the voice of God telling them they are loved, they are wanted, and they are His.Ryan Ries is living proof of this truth. Growing up in Los Angeles, California as the son of a mega-church pastor, but surrounded by the music, skate, and snowboard industries, Ryan felt a tug-of-war between the church and the world. It was in the skate and music culture that he found his passion and his identity. So he walked away from God and dove head first into the world, losing his way in alcohol, drugs, and sex, which lead to anxiety, brokenness, and emptiness. Kill The Noise is his story about finding God in the messiness of life, even though it seemed impossible, and will help readers find Him too.

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Book SynopsisJinger Vuolo did not have what you'd call a typical childhood. The sixth child of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's nineteen, she grew up with the bright lights of television crews in her home, filming the hit TLC show 19 Kids and Counting. Jinger has always been a fan favorite, and now she and her husband Jeremy are the breakout stars of the show's sequel, Counting On.In Imperishable Hope, Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo share the highs and lows of their love story. They open up about the early days of knowing one another, their long-distance relationship, and the many sleepless nights as new parents. Just below the surface, weaving together every triumph and trial of their lives, is the silver thread of hope. Though they don't pretend to have all the answers, they can promise that there is hope in Christ for every person in every walk of life. There is an inheritance of glory, a life richer than we can imagine, if we only walk with Him.

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Book SynopsisWhat if you or someone you loved missed out on the Rapture? What happens to those who are left behind? Trusted and beloved Bible teacher Dr. David Jeremiah shares the help and hope people will need as they face unfolding events during the End Times.

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Book SynopsisA rich and rare approach to the mystical and the miraculous', the strange but real parts of a life that ?oat between earth and heaven, mud and glory Beautifully achieved with a subtle beauty, music and growing intensity that makes a fruitful vine of the whole. John F. DeaneSt Columba, or Columcille, and the island of Iona are the inspiration for James Harpur in this book of delicate lyric poems. Delving into the stories of the saint including visions of angels, struggles with Picts, and various miracles Harpur mingles his own poetic imagination with the spirit of Columba and the landscape of Iona: the result is poetry full of spiritual freedom and redolent of an age of wonder in which the natural world and the elements were perceived to be in harmony with the divine. James Harpur has published seven books of poetry and won a number of awards, including the Michael Hartnett Poetry Prize and the UK National Poetry Competition. He is a member of Aosdána, the Irish academy of the arts, and lives in the wilds of West Cork. www.jamesharpur.com

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Book SynopsisWalking through the Bible's teaching, Sam Storms helps believers find freedom, joy, and peace in knowing what God has done (and will never do) with their sin through the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus.

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Book SynopsisThis new and dynamic approach to the perennially fascinating subject of miracles adopts a strictly anthropological and phenomenological approach. Allowing the miracles to speak for themselves, Ian Richard Netton examines these phenomena in the Islamic and Christian traditions through the lens of narration.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A brilliant overview of how the legacy of the Roman empire continued to shape the Mediterranean world."---Rowan Williams, New Humanist"Herrin’s Christendom is an obvious candidate for the Princeton Classics series. Here one can savour the clarity and originality of her account of such dauntingly named theological upheavals as the Monothelite controversy (over the psychology of Christ’s divinity versus his humanity) of the seventh century, or the struggles over the use of icons in Christian worship that came close to ripping the Byzantine empire apart in the eighth and ninth."---Diarmaid MacCulloch, Times Literary Supplement ​​​​​​​"It will no longer be possible to hop from pagan antiquity to Carolingian Europe as if nothing had happened in between. Judith Herrin has laid her sheet of paper over the map of that 'dark' age and rubbed and rubbed until the rich web of connections and cracks has shown through."---Marina Warner, The Independent"An ambitious, learned, lucid, and instructive book."---Alexander Murray, Times Literary Supplement"Herrin's scholarship is unerring, her scope is wide and her style fluent. . . . The treatment of the so-called iconoclastic controversy, the dispute over the veneration of images in Christian worship which convulsed the Byzantine world in the eighth century, is sparkling. . . . Debate about where modern Europe came from . . . will be enriched by this civilized and accomplished book." * The Economist *"Herrin follows some magnificent themes with the lucid dispassion of a good detective."---Thomas D'Evelyn, Christian Science Monitor"It is [the] binding together of distant past and immediate present which makes Judith Herrin's scholarship so exciting: she can convince the reader that the roots of Western distinctiveness really do lead all the way to forgotten episcopal meetings in small towns in Asia Minor in the fourth century."---Michael Ignatieff, The Observer"A learned, challenging, and gracefully written interpretation of the transition from antiquity to the Middle Ages."---Robert L. Wilken, Commonweal"A serious and powerful book. . . . A grand synthesis on a scale few people would dare now to attempt, ranging across diverse societies with considerable assurance."---Christopher J. Wickham, International History Review

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Book SynopsisThe Book of Revelation holds a special fascination for both scholars and the general public. The book has generated widely differing interpretations, yet Revelation has surprisingly not been the focus of many single-volume reference works. The Oxford Handbook of the Book of Revelation fills a need in the study of this controversial book. Thirty essays by leading scholars from around the world orient readers to the major currents in the study of Revelation. Divided into five sections-Literary Features, Social Setting, Theology and Ethics, History of Reception and Influence, and Currents in Interpretation-the essays identify the major lines of interpretation that have shaped discussion of these topics, and then work through the aspects of those topics that are most significant and hold greatest promise for future research.Trade ReviewThis volume is a standout in the "companion/handbook" genre. The effort and expertise of the editor are everywhere apparent, from the selection and organization of the topics, to the choice of contributors. He probably also is responsible for the consistently focused discussions, which are always interesting and never veer off topic (unlike so many other works in this genre). This is essential reading for all NT scholars. * Scott D. Mackie, The Catholic Biblical Quarterly *While there are several edited books on Revelation, none is quite like this one. The Oxford Handbook of the Book of Revelation stands out as a very diverse blend across several perspectives. It offers a wide range of views and robust bibliography on a variety of interpretative issues. * Flavio Prestes III, Berrien Springs, Michigan , Andrews University Seminary Studies *an excellent handbook which summarises comprehensively the current approaches and debates and provides many fresh insights and avenues for further research * C. Stenschke, Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses *All in all, the handbook provides a profitable overview of the essential issues * Margarette Strauss, Theologische Revue *There are several positive features provided in this handbook ... this volume should be welcomed to the academic discussion. * Taman Turbinton, Journal of the Oxford Graduate Theological Society *Table of ContentsPreface Contributors Abbreviations 1. Introduction to Revelation's Social Setting, Theological Perspective, and Literary Design Craig R. Koester I. Literary Features of the Book of Revelation 2. The Genre of the Book of Revelation Mitchell G. Reddish 3. Narrative Features of the Book of Revelation James L. Resseguie 4. Imagery in the Book of Revelation Konrad Huber 5. Rhetorical Features of the Book of Revelation David A. deSilva 6. The Use of the Old Testament in the Book of Revelation Steve Moyise 7. Revelation's Use of the Greek Language David Mathewson 8. The Hymns in the Book of Revelation Justin P. Jeffcoat Schedtler II. Social Setting 9. Christianity and Roman Rule in First-Century Asia Minor Warren Carter 10. Relationships among Jesus Followers and Jewish Communities in First-Century Asia Minor Mikael Tellbe 11. Greco-Roman Religions and the Context of Revelation Richard Ascough 12. John's Apocalypse in Relation to Johannine, Pauline, and Other Forms of Christianity in Asia Minor Paul Trebilco III. Theology and Ethics 13. God in the Book of Revelation Martin Karrer 14. Jesus in the Book of Revelation Loren L. Johns 15. The Spirit in the Book of Revelation John Christopher Thomas 16. Creation and New Creation in the Book of Revelation Mark B. Stephens 17. Perspectives on Evil in the Book of Revelation Gregory Stevenson 18. Violence in the Book of Revelation David L. Barr 19. The City-Women Babylon and New Jerusalem in the Book of Revelation Lynn Huber 20. The People of God in the Book of Revelation Peter S. Perry IV. History of Reception and Influence 21. The Greek Text of Revelation Juan Hernández 22. The Book of Revelation in the New Testament Canon Tobias Nicklas 23. Reception History and the Interpretation of Revelation Ian Boxall 24. The Interpretation of the Book of Revelation in Early Christianity Charles Hill 25. The Interpretation of John's Apocalypse in the Medieval Period Julia Eve Wannenmacher 26. Revelation in Music and Liturgy Paul Westermeyer 27. Forms of Futuristic Interpretation of Revelation in the Modern Period Joshua T. Searle with Kenneth Newport V. Currents in Interpretation 28. Feminist Interpretation of the Book of Revelation Susan Hylen 29. Interpreting Revelation through African American Cultural Studies Thomas B. Slater 30. Post-colonial Interpretation of the Book of Revelation Harry O. Maier

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Book SynopsisTheESV Student Study Bible,adapted from theESV Study Bible,contains12,000+ study notes,book introductions and timelines, 80+ maps and illustrations, 120character profiles,900 "Did You Know?" facts,10 topical articles, and more.

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Book SynopsisJames's letter is famous for its practical wisdom and its heart for gospel transformation reflected in action. James is like Proverbs in the New Testament - but written as a letter, reflecting the New Covenant of Christ. It advises believers facing cultural challenges in the diaspora how to approach practical issues like trials and suffering, the proper use of the tongue, and poverty and wealth from a worldview shaped by Christ. Stated simply, it teaches believers about living life in God's world by God's rules. In James Verse by Verse, the late Grant R. Osborne invites readers to delve into this uniquely structured, immensely practical book. James is all about what early Christians called "the Way" and, as such, holds a unique place in the New Testament. This commentary will help modern readers embrace James as a distinctively Christian letter, full of wisdom for everyday life.

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Book SynopsisDo the unending obstacles you face make you feel like you’re in a constant spiritual battle? Arm yourself with 100 prayers that will uplift and encourage you during the difficult moments of life.It can be difficult to find the right words when you’re praying through hard times. In Battle Prayers, find a classic model to lift your prayers to God, not only for yourself, but others.Each prayer is woven together with Scripture, reminding you that the answers to your struggles can be found in God’s Word and by listening to Him. Battle Prayers: Shows how the power of prayer can lead you to find lasting encouragement Provides inspiration and theological accuracy Offers prayers ideal for helping move the mountains that can sometimes stand in between us and God Whether a gift or for yourself, this volume of 100 prayers features:Specific Scriptures and cross-references to othe

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Winner of the John Gilmary Shea Prize, American Catholic Historical Association""Winner of the Best First Book in the History of Religions, American Academy of Religion""Karin Vélez’s study of the cult of the Virgin of Loreto brilliantly encapsulates the current historiography of the Counter-Reformation. . . . Vélez’s prose is lyrical and her true gift is that of a storyteller."---Jan Machielsen, Times Literary Supplement"Vélez has written a well-researched, thoughtful book that will be a permanent contribution to the mythohistory of Loreto."---David D'Andrea, Journal of Early Modern History

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Book SynopsisHow to Heal the Sick, Cast Out Demons, Raise the Dead--and More!The Bible says that if you belong to Jesus, you have the power to:· heal the sick· cast out demons · bring deliverance to those trapped in spiritual darkness· prophesy in his name· call forth creative miracles· receive supernatural words of wisdom and knowledge· even raise the deadSo why do so many Christians live powerless lives? Why do they operate with so little faith?Having gone through his own journey from doubt to belief, Chicagoland pastor Robby Dawkins now ministers and speaks internationally, and where he goes, miracles happen. In these pages he shares incredible stories of God using ordinary people to do the impossible. And he shows that, when you begin to have faith in the power of God, take him at his Word, and understand his love for you, you will see his power released in healings, financia

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Book SynopsisDrawing on over fifty years of research and data collected by field-school students, Hawkins argues that two factors - cultural collapse and systematic social and economic exclusion - explain the recent religious transformation of Maya Guatemala and the style and emotional intensity through which that transformation is expressed.

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Book SynopsisLetters By a Modern Mystic is a little book of big ideas based on one simple spiritual practice: living every moment with the thought of God.Trade Review'If you will patiently begin to follow the instructions given in this book, you will very quickly see the astonishing results.' * Dallas Willard, author and teacher *

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Book SynopsisFrom the rise of Christian monasticism in Egypt and Syria to present day, Christians have argued fiercely about whether monks should work to support themselves. Peter Brown shifts attention from Western to Eastern Christianity, introducing us to this smoldering debate that took place across the entire Middle East from the Euphrates to the Nile.Trade ReviewOne of the most familiar phrases in the New Testament is Jesus's exhortation to forget about earthly riches and instead store up 'treasure in heaven.' Here, Peter Brown uses the phrase to pry open ancient attitudes about the relationship between work, leisure, and piety, and the way Christianity both reflected and threatened long-standing tensions. Treasure in Heaven is wide-ranging, accessible, and highly readable. Someday Brown will write a book that does not stimulate new thinking. But this is not that day, nor is this that book."" — H. A. Drake, University of California, Santa Barbara, author of Constantine and the Bishops""The poor were a special focus of early Christianity, but who were they? And what made them so deserving? These questions have preoccupied Peter Brown for more than a decade. After Poverty and Leadership in the Later Roman Empire and Through the Eye of a Needle, he turns here to the eastern edges of the Roman Empire and to the ‘holy poor,’ those men and women who deliberately chose poverty in order to be closer to God, and who must therefore be supported by the rest of society. With his accustomed virtuosity Brown reveals hitherto unsuspected tensions between the ‘real poor’ and the ‘holy poor,’ and the anxious questions asked about the value of work, the impact of wealth, and the nature of the ‘angelic life.’ Above all, what did ‘treasure in heaven’ really mean? In the third book of his trilogy, Brown lays bare in vivid and arresting detail the legacies of Syria and Egypt, the variety and contradictions within Christianity, and the intense self-questioning of Christians in the early centuries.""— Dame Averil Cameron, University of Oxford

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Book SynopsisHow should Christians be faithful disciples in the political turbulence of Trump and Brexit? Christopher J H Wright unpacks the Biblical theme of idolatry and connects it to discipleship in today’s world. As Christians, we desperately need to name and expose the false gods and idols that we are tempted to bow down to – ‘Here are your gods!’ The Bible challenges the idols of political power and nationalism. The Biblical story is filled with hope that the kingdom of God will ultimately triumph over all human empires. How then should we live as followers of Jesus, the Messiah, Saviour, Lord and King? Part One is adapted from chapter 5 of Wright’s The Mission of God, ‘The Living God Confronts Idolatry’. Parts Two and Three bring the Bible to bear on contemporary politics in the UK and USA, and for all Christians seeking to make sense of the changing world we live in.Trade ReviewFearless, provocative, clear, direct, sharp, urgent, wide-horizoned: it was all those things when he wrote it. But in light of subsequent events, by the time it's published it is a tract for the times. -- John Goldingay * Senior professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary, author of Old Testament Ethics *Christopher Wright has given us a powerful and incisive analysis of the nature of idolatry both in biblical times and today. He spares no punches as he exposes the dangers of political idolatry, which has tempted many contemporary Christians. Importantly, he not only diagnoses the problem, he gives us the remedy. This book should be must reading for Christians as they engage with the political process. * author of The Bible and the Ballot: Using Scripture in Political Decision *Wright's careful dive into Scripture on the meaning of idolatry packs a punch for our times—an important reminder that idols, including political idols, are false gods that we create in our image, capable of great harm and destruction but ultimately ciphers within the true created order. * Sally D. Danforth Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion at Washington University in St. Louis *The biblical warning to 'keep yourselves from idols' hones in on the source of spiritual, social, moral, and existential ruin. Chris Wright's fine study on idolatry in Scripture and his application of it to our Western world shines a bright light to help us see more clearly what is at stake. Although the West has been shaped by many (now-fading) biblical ideals, we are witnessing a culture shot through with a host of idolatrous tendencies to put our trust in the wrong places—in that which is not-God. Whatever our political views as Christians may be, Wright offers correctives for all of us, exhorting us to be guided by biblical priorities and Christ-centered discipleship, which will ultimately lead to our flourishing as God's image-bearers. * Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics at Palm Beach Atlantic University, coauthor of Introduction to Biblical Ethics *Chris Wright’s excellent ‘Here are your gods’ is wonderful. It’s not for the faint of heart, because it challenges personal and cultural idolatry, as Wright applies Scripture to the issues of the day. I don’t believe that anybody could possibly read this book and not be unsettled – and driven back to the Bible. As you would expect from Chris Wright, it then ends with a reminder that Christian Scripture is about mission and our role in God’s mission. I wish I’d read his insights into how we should read the Bible years ago! -- Gordon Showell-Rogers, facilitating networks and partnerships globally. Formerly Associate Secretary General WEA

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Book SynopsisThis new edition of The Heart (out of print for nearly 30 years) is the flagship volume in a series of Dietrich von Hildebrand’s works to be published by St. Augustine’s Press in collaboration with the Dietrich von Hildebrand Legacy Project. Founded in 2004, the Legacy Project exists in the first place to translate the many German writings of von Hildebrand into English.While many revere von Hildebrand as a religious author, few realize that he was a philosopher of great stature and importance. Those who knew von Hildebrand as philosopher held him in the highest esteem. Louis Bouyer, for example, once said that “von Hildebrand was the most important Catholic philosopher in Europe between the two world wars.” Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger expressed even greater esteem when he said: “I am personally convinced that, when, at some time in the future, the intellectual history of the Catholic Church in the twentieth century is written, the name of Dietrich von Hildebrand will be most prominent among the figures of our time.”The Heart is an accessible yet important philosophical contribution to the understanding of the human person. In this work von Hildebrand is concerned with rehabilitating the affective life of the human person. He thinks that for too long philosophers have held it in suspicion and thought of it as embedded in the body and hence as being much inferior to intellect and will. In reality, he argues, the heart, the center of affectivity, has many different levels, including an eminently personal level; at this level affectivity is just as important a form of personal life as intellect and will. Von Hildebrand develops the idea that properly personal affectivity, far than tending away from an objective relation to being, is in fact one major way in which we transcend ourselves and give being its due. Von Hildebrand also developed the important idea that the heart “in many respects is more the real self of the person than his intellect or will.”At the same time, the author shows full realism about the possible deformities of affective life; he offers rich analyses of what he calls affective atrophy and affective hypertrophy. The second half of The Heart offers a remarkable analysis of the affectivity of the God-Man.

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Book SynopsisLooking at Jesus as a complete human being and philosopher, explores the most radical revolution in the history of philosophy--the differences Jesus made to metaphysics, epistemology, anthropology, and philosophical ethics and politics.

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