Christianity Books

Book SynopsisContinuing the tradition of centuries, The Divine Office is the Catholic liturgy for morning prayer, prayer during the day, and evening prayer, for every day of the year.Volume One of the Divine Office covers the period from Advent up to the start of Lent, and includes all the prayers, as well as readings. This edition contains an updated table of moveable dates.This edition comes in an attractive binding with ribbon marker.The Divine Office is the official text for the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, as well as various countries across Africa and Asia.

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Book SynopsisAn inspirational source of encouragement for Lent.The Little Book of Lent' is a powerful anthology of readings from spiritual writers for each day of Lent, with accompanying scripture and prayers to help guide daily reflections.With extracts from a range of inspirational writers and theologians, including Desmond Tutu, Sheila Cassidy and Rowan Williams, 'The Little Book of Lent' guides you to deepen your prayer life in anticipation of Easter.This book can be read on your own or with others, used either for self-reflection or to spark discussion and share insights on God's truths. This edition would be perfect on which to base a Lent course or to use as a talking point for home groups.Whether or not you choose to read the extracts multiple times or once straight through, Howells' latest work will lead you to new heights in your Christian journey and personal walk with God. It is the ideal gift for friends, family or anyone else preparing themselves for the sacrifices of Lent.

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Book Synopsis“A genuine treasure and superb work in spiritual formation.” — Richard J. Foster, author of Celebration of DisciplineFollowing in the tradition of Richard J. Foster’s A Celebration of Discipline and Dallas Willard’s Divine Conspiracy, the former president of Renovaré calls all Christians to recenter the Christian life around what has always been its core: following Jesus.“Change” is at the heart of Christian life. As Christians, we are called to be disciples of Jesus, to actively follow his teachings and become more like him. But the church has lost sight of what has always been its center, Christopher A. Hall argues. In A Different Way, he reminds us that faith is not meant to be merely rigid and static and so guides us back to Christianity’s spiritual foundation, helping us reconnect with Jesus and live the life he calls to live.

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Book SynopsisA biography of the historical figure of Jesus. The book studies the relationship between Judaism and Christianity, distinguishing the certain from the improbable, and assessing the historical and religious context of Christ''s time. The spread of Christianity is also discussed.Table of ContentsThe Historical Figure of Jesus - E.P. Sanders Map of Palestine in the Time of JesusList of AbbreviationsChronological TablePreface1. Introduction2. An Outline of Jesus' Life3. Political Setting4. Judaism as a Religion5. External Sources6. The Problems of the Primary Sources7. Two Contexts8. The Setting and Method of Jesus' Ministry9. The Beginning of Jesus' Ministry10. Miracles11. The Coming of the Kingdom12. The Kingdom: Israel, Gentiles and Individuals13. The Kingdom: Reversal of Values and Ethical Perfectionism14. Contention and Opposition in Galilee15. Jesus' View of His Role in God's Plan16. Jesus' Last Week17. Epilogue: The ResurrectionAppendix I: ChronologyAppendix II: Jesus' DisciplesNotesIndex of PassagesIndex of Names and Subjects

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Book SynopsisComposed during a critical time in the evolution of European intellectual life, the works of Meister Eckhart (c. 1260-1327) are some of the most powerful medieval attempts to achieve a synthesis between ancient Greek thought and the Christian faith. Writing with great rhetorical brilliance, Eckhart combines the neoplatonic concept of oneness - the idea that the ultimate principle of the universe is single and undivided - with his Christian belief in the Trinity, and considers the struggle to describe a perfect God through the imperfect medium of language. Fusing philosophy and religion with vivid originality and metaphysical passion, these works have intrigued and inspired philosophers and theologians from Hegel to Heidegger and beyond.Table of ContentsThe talks of instruction; the book of divine consolation; on the noble man; selected German sermons; selected Latin sermons.

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Book SynopsisIn his reflections on Christianity, Saint Thomas Aquinas forged a unique synthesis of ancient philosophy and medieval theology. Preoccupied with the relationship between faith and reason, he was influenced both by Aristotle's rational world view and by the powerful belief that wisdom and truth can ultimately only be reached through divine revelation. Thomas's writings, which contain highly influential statements of fundamental Christian doctrine, as well as observations on topics as diverse as political science, anti-Semitism and heresy, demonstrate the great range of his intellect and place him firmly among the greatest medieval philosophers.For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanTrade Review"There are readers of Aquinas's works, but Penguin's surpasses all by its sheer size, the very representative choice of texts, the excellent translations, and scholarly, informative introductions." —Albert E. GunnTable of ContentsSelected Writings - Thomas Aquinas IntroductionChronologyA Note on the TextsPart One: Student (1245-56)1. The Inaugural Sermons (1256)2. On the Principles of Nature (1252-6)3. On Being and Essence (1252-6)4. The Nature of Theology. Commentary on Sentences I, Prologue (1252-4)5. The Work of the Six Days of Creation. Commentary on Sentences 2.2, d. 12 (1252-4)Part Two: Master at Paris (1256-9)6. Theology, Faith and Reason. On Boethius On the Trinity, 1-2 (1257)7. How are Things Good? Exposition of On the Hebdomads of Boethius (1257)8. The Meanings of Truth. Disputed Question on Truth, I (1256-9)9. On the Teacher. Disputed Question on Truth, II (1256-9)10. On Conscience. Disputed Question on Truth, 17 (1256-9)Part Three: Italy (1259-68)11. Proof of God's Existence. Summa contra Gentiles, I, 9-14 (1259)12. The Human Good. Summa contra Gentiles, 3 (1259-65)13. On the Divine Simplicity. Disputed Question of the Power of God, 7 (1265-6)14. On Goodness and the Goodness of God. Summa theologiae, 1, 5-6 (1268)15. On Creation. Summa theologiae, 1, 44 (1268)16. On Angelic Knowledge. Summa theologiae, 1, 54-8 (1268)17. Definitions of Soul. On Aristotle's De anima, 2, 1-3 (1268)18. Platonism and Neoplatonism. Preface to Exposition of On the Divine Names (1265-8)Part Four: Paris (1269-72)19. The Range of Natural Philosophy. Expositions of Physics, 1, 1, Preface to On the Heavens, Preface to On Sense and the Sensed Object (1269)20. How Words Mean. Exposition of On Interpretation, 1-5 (1270-71)21. On the Ultimate End. Summa theologiae, 1-2, 1-5 (1271)22. On Human Choice. Disputed Question on Evil, 6 (1266-72)23. What Makes Actions Good or Bad? Summa theologiae, 1-2, 18-20 (1271)24. On Law and Natural Law. Summa theologiae, 1-2, 90-94 (1271)25. The Virtues. Summa theologiae, 1-2, 55-7 (1271-2)26. The Active and Contemplative Lives. Summa theologiae, 2-2, 179-81 (1271-2)27. On the Eternity of the World (1271)28. The Love of Wisdom. Exposition of Metaphysics, Preface and 1, 1-3 (1271)Part Five: Naples (1272-4)29. The Logic of the Incarnation. Summa theologiae, 3, 16 (1273)30. What is a Sacrament? Summa theologiae, 3, 6 (1273)31. The Exposition of the Book of Causes, 1-5 (1272)32. Exposition of Paul's Epistle to Philemon (1273)33. Exposition of the Angelic Salutation (Ave Maria) (1273)Glossary

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Book Synopsis'With God's help, I, Bede ... have assembled these facts about the history of the Church in Britain ... from the traditions of our forebears, and from my own personal knowledge'Written in AD 731, Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English People is the first account of Anglo-Saxon England ever written, and remains our single most valuable source for this period. It begins with Julius Caesar's invasion in the first century BC and goes on to tell of the kings and bishops, monks and nuns who helped to develop government and convert the people to Christianity during these crucial formative years. Relating the deeds of great men and women but also describing landscape, customs and ordinary lives, this is a rich, vivid portrait of an emerging church and nation by the 'Father of English History'.Leo Sherley-Price's translation from the Latin brings us an accurate and readable version of Bede's History. This edition includes Bede's Letter to EgTable of ContentsBook one: the situation of Britain and Ireland - their earliest inhabitants; on Gaius Julius Caesar, the first Roman to reach Britain; Claudius - the second Roman to reach Britain - annexes the Isles of Orkney to the Roman Empire - under his direction Vespasian subdues the Isle of Wight; Lucius - a British king - writes to Pope Eleutherus and asks to be made a Christian; Severus divides Roman Britain from the rest by an earth work; the reign of Diocletian - his persecution of the Christian Church; the martyrdom of Saint Alban and his companions - who shed their life-blood for Christ at this time; the Church in Britain enjoys peace from the end of this persecution until the time of the Arian heresy; during the reign of Gratian - Maximus is created Emperor in Britain and returns to Gaul with a large army; during the reign of Arcadius - the Briton Pelagius presumptuously belittles the grace of God; during the reign of Honorius - Gratian and Constantine set up as despots in Britain - the former is killed shortly afterwards in Britain - the latter in Gaul; the Britons - harassed by the Irish and Picts - seek help from the Romans - who come and build a second wall across the island - notwithstanding, these enemies again break in and reduce the Britons to worse straits; during the reign of Theodosius the Younger - Palladius is sent to the Christians among the Irish - the Britons make an unsuccessful appeal to the Consul Aetius; the Britons made desperate by famine drive the Barbarians out of their land - there soon follows an abundance of corn - luxury - plague - and doom on the nation. (Part contents)

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Book SynopsisAt a time when Christianity is flourishing in the Southern hemisphere but declining in much of the West, this Very Short Introduction offers an important overview of the world''s largest religion.Exploring the cultural and institutional dimensions of Christianity, and tracing its course over two millennia, Linda Woodhead provides a fresh, lively, and candid portrait of Christianity''s past and present. Addressing topics including the competition for power between different forms of Christianity, the churches'' use of power, and its struggles with modernity, this new edition includes up to date information on the growth and geographical spread of Eastern Christianity, reflecting the global nature of Christianity in our ever-shifting contemporary culture. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewLinda Woodhead has chosen to revise her 2004 book in the Oxford 'Very Short Introduction' series and this is well worth a read. * Adrian Alker, Modern Believing *Table of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. Jesus: the God-man ; 2. Christian signs and symbols ; 3. The spread of Christianity ; 4. Church and biblical Christianity ; 5. Mystical Christianity ; 6. Modern Christianity ; Conclusion ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisThérèse of Lisieux is among today's most popular and best-loved saints. Yet she entered a Carmelite convent when she was just 15, and died from tuberculosis in 1897 when she was only 24.Her spiritual autobiography, The Story of a Soul, and other writings including letters and poetry, became widely read after Thérèse's death. Throughout the Christian world, word spread of the Little Way' of love that she set out in her writing. In words simple yet profound, she taught trust and absolute self-surrender' to God, and showed how holiness lies within the reach of us all.By Love Alone offers short extracts from Thérèse's writings, arranged for daily devotional reading. First published in 1986, this wonderful collection has brought comfort and spiritual guidance to tens of thousands of people around the world.This new edition curated by Fr Luke Penkett, archivist and librarian of the Julian Centre, presents her words anew for a modern generation. The original edition was edited by Fr Michael H

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Book SynopsisThe Divine Dance is a superb book from bestselling author and spiritual teacher Richard Rohr, exploring the doctrine of the Trinity and how it can transform our relationship with God.Trade ReviewFinding the sweet spot where contemporary science meets ancient mysticism, and theology meets poetry, The Divine Dance sketches a beautiful choreography for a life well–lived. In our joy or our pain, true life is always relational, a flow, a dance. (And was always meant to be.) -- Bono, U2The Divine Dance is not only Richard Rohr’s best book; it’s the best book on the Trinity I’ve ever read. Tender, human, both pastorally and psychologically brilliant, this is the work Rohr was born to do . . . An instant spiritual classic. -- Jonathan Martin, Author, How to Survive a ShipwreckRohr and Morrell have given us a liberating and yet totally orthodox invitation into the life of God. This book is a celebration of the Trinity, not as bad math (1+1+1=3), and not as baffling mystery to avoid, but as the divine movement of love. The Divine Dance is an example of why Rohr has had such a profound influence on so many Christians seeking to balance reason and mystery, action and contemplation, not to mention faith and real life. -- Nadia Bolz-Weber, Pastor, House for All Sinners and Saints, Author, Accidental Saints: Finding God in All the Wrong People, NadiaBolzWeber.comThe Divine Dance invites you into the heart of Christian mysticism: the lavish ever-expanding love of God. Richard Rohr and Mike Morrell show how the triune God is more than a philosophical concept—the Trinity is a joyous celebration of love and life, and we are all called to participate. -- Carl McColman, Author, The Big Book of Christian Mysticism, CarlMcColman.netA truly vital re-presentation of the fundamental truths that lie at the heart of the Christian gospel for a new age. Rohr and Morrell have written a soon-to-be classic that will re-enchant many with the beauty of the Christian tradition while causing us to expand and explore beyond the boundaries of rigid religiosity . . . a must-read for every Christian in the twenty-first century. -- Brandan Robertson, Author, Nomad: A Spirituality for Travelling LightWith the wisdom of C.S. Lewis and the accessibility of Rob Bell, Richard Rohr and Mike Morrell unpack our long-lingering questions about God, love, grace, and forgiveness, all through the lens of Trinitarian spirituality. This isn’t to say that this book answers every question. Like all good mystics, Rohr and Morrell circle our questions, reveling in the mystery of all that is. Join them. Stand with them "under the waterfall of God’s infinite mercy, and know that you are loved." -- David James Poissant, L.A. Times Book Prize Finalist; author, The Heaven of Animals, davidjamespoissant.comRichard Rohr is one of the great spiritual masters of our time, indeed of any time. His superb new book on the Trinity is vintage Rohr: clearheaded, provocative, inspiring, challenging, and, most of all, suffused with the presence of the Holy Spirit. The Trinity will of course always remain a profound mystery, but after reading Father Rohr’s book, you will experience it as a mystery that can, and will, transform your life. -- James Martin, SJ, Author, Jesus: A Pilgrimage and Seven Last WordsRichard Rohr has once again given us a remarkable book on a sub­ject that most Christians haven’t really thought about or prayed about, and yet we all agree is at the very heart of Christianity . . . [Richard's] heart is to reform Christianity from the bottom up by making clear the very shape of God, and in The Divine Dance he does just that . . the wisdom contained within these pages will enable us all to join in the dance of life! -- Francis MacNutt, Healing minister and author, The Healing Reawakening, christianhealingmin.orgMore and more people are struggling with conventional understandings of God, like the big white guy on a throne with a long beard and a fistful of swords and lightning bolts by which you (or your enemies) might be smitten at any moment if you don’t think or act correctly. For many, the concept of Trinity simply triples their God-problems. But in The Divine Dance, Richard Rohr and Mike Morrell explore the Trinity as a pathway beyond problematic understandings of God. This beautifully-written book can do far more than change your troubled thoughts about God: it can change your way of thinking about God entirely. -- Brian D. McLaren, Activist, speaker, and author, We Make the Road by Walking, brianmclaren.netThis is Christianity, awake. In The Divine Dance, Fr. Rohr and Mike Morrell inspire the mind and open the heart by exploring how a more robust Trinitarian theology can enliven faith in a way that’s rooted not only in Christian tradition, but in wisdom, experience, and love. -- Michael Gungor, Musician and author, The Crowd, the Critic, and the Muse, GungorMusic.comAn inspiring book whose richness is possibly best savoured when read intermittently, allowing it to become part of one’s own process of prayer. * Reform Magazine, May issue *an imaginative, provocative, and energised invitation to be renewed in the Trinitarian faith * Church Times *

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Book SynopsisA reading a day for Lent exploring themes in 40 of George Herbert's poems by Mark Oakley.Trade ReviewIt's extremely unusual to meet anyone who isn't a specialist who has such a subtle feeling for language as he does.', Sir Andrew Motion, former Poet Laureate;The Splash of Words: Believing in poetry (Canterbury Press, 2016): This beautiful and wise meditation centred around Mark Oakley's anthology of the `soul language' of poetry opens new windows in the shared house of both poetry and belief.', Carol Ann Duffy, Poet Laureate;'A wonderful exposition of the relationship between faith, poetry and struggle.', Shami Chakrabarti, The Guardian;'A very moving book, opening all kinds of doors into a more compassionate, more truthful understanding.', Rowan Williams, Master of Magdalen College, Cambridge;Readings for Funerals (SPCK, 2015): This book will be a great help and a real comfort to anyone going through a difficult time in their life - something that happens to us all sooner or later.', Dame Judi Dench;'I have tested Mark Oakley's Readings for Weddings (SPCK 2003, 2014) with a number of couples I have been preparing for marriage over the last few years. They have been universally grateful for such a rich and varied quarry from which they have been able, in every case, to extract something that was highly appropriate but that would otherwise never have been discovered.', Richard Chartres, Former Bishop of London;A Good Year (SPCK, 2016): A good read.', Anvil

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Book SynopsisPeter Scazzero learned the hard way: you can't be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature. In the Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Workbook, Peter outlines a roadmap for discipleship with Jesus that is powerfully transformative.

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Book SynopsisAre churches looking for the wrong kind of leaders? The last decade has witnessed a rising number of churches wrecked by spiritual abuse--harsh, heavy-handed, domineering behavior from those in a position of spiritual authority. And high-profile cases are only a small portion of this widespread problem. Behind the scenes are many more cases of spiritual abuse that we will never hear about. Victims suffer in silence, not knowing where to turn.Of course, most pastors and leaders are godly, wonderful people who don''t abuse their sheep. They shepherd their flocks gently and patiently. But we can''t ignore the growing number who do not. We have tolerated and even celebrated the kind of leaders Jesus warned us against.We need gentle shepherds now more than ever, and in Bully Pulpit, seminary president and biblical scholar Michael J. Kruger offers a unique perspective for both church leaders and church members on the problem of spiritual abuse, howTrade Review'I have been waiting for a book like this that I can assign for my seminary courses on abuse. Michael has brought much needed clarity and wisdom to the devastating reality of spiritual abuse. Michael's perspective as a Bible scholar and seminary president is invaluable. He brings church leaders face-to-face with the destruction abusers cause. He does this to help us take spiritual abuse seriously, to foster the motivation to enact real change, and to fill us with compassion for those who suffer from abusive 'leaders.'' * Justin S. Holcomb, Episcopal priest, seminary professor, and coauthor of God Made All of Me *'Learned and wise, urgent and timely, biblical and hopeful--this book deals with a sensitive topic with enormous skill and care. I can think of no better book on the subject and hope it will be read widely.' * Sam Allberry, pastor and author of Why Bother with Church? *'Michael has written a courageous book for such a time as this. I pray he is a prophet who is accepted and welcomed in his own country, particularly within a Reformed and Presbyterian community not immune to this pervasive plague within the church.?' * Rev. Chuck DeGroat, PhD, professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary *'Spiritual abuse is one of the greatest stains on the bride of Christ today. Too few with pulpits and platforms are willing to recognize the basic truths that Michael Kruger addresses clearly, convincingly, and biblically. I thought Bully Pulpit would be a book every pastor and Christian leader ought to read. But I changed my mind: every Christian from pulpit to pew needs to read this wise and timely work--for the sake of the church and her people.' * Karen Swallow Prior, research professor of English and Christianity & Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of On Reading Well *'The apostle Paul tells us the overseer of God's people is not to be a bully, but gentle (1 Tim. 3:3, CSB), and yet we too often overlook significant character issues or actions that should be disqualifying for ministry because of how God seems to be using an individual or growing a church. Bully Pulpit provides wise and measured reflections on the reality of shepherds who reject Christ's vision of leadership and leave spiritual destruction in the wake of their sin. I hope this important book prompts serious discussion among God's people.' * Trevin Wax, vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and visiting professor at Cedarville University, author of The Thrill of Orthodoxy *'The topic of spiritual abuse needs careful attention and sober reflection, so I'm thankful for this thoughtful, wise, and biblical book. Dr. Kruger provides helpful clarity on a controversial subject while courageously cautioning ministry leaders about the kind of leadership that doesn't reflect the heart of Christ. Anyone who serves the spiritual needs of people should read this timely book.' * Mark Vroegop, lead pastor of College Park Church and author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy *'This book is not a reaction but a response. Reactions to spiritual abuse are understandably passionate, but often without constructive insight. Dr. Kruger responds with both passion and constructive insight into both how leadership dynamics often deny the character of our Lord Jesus and how building new dynamics will put that very character on vibrant display.' * Jeremy Pierre, Lawrence & Charlotte Hoover Professor of Biblical Counseling Chair, Department of Biblical Counseling and Family Ministry at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of When Home Hurts *'While exposing spiritual abuse has become commonplace in American Christianity, few offer constructive solutions or practical wisdom. In this book Michael Kruger diagnoses the problem of spiritual abuse, describes what it is (and is not), and equips leaders to prevent abuse as well as respond appropriately when it happens. I hope every pastor reads this book and that it leads to faithfully representing our Lord, who used his power to serve.' * Jeremy Treat, pastor for preaching and vision at Reality LA and author of Seek First *'Who would ever have thought we would reach a point in the life of the church where the adjective bully would modify the noun pulpit? Yet, sadly, we have arrived. This book is both urgent and timely, as the presence of domineering and abusive church leaders continues to make headlines. This book is not only for pastors and elders but should be read by all Christians who care about the life and health of the body of Christ. I highly recommend it.' * Sam Storms, lead pastor for preaching and vision at Bridgeway Church and author of Understanding Spiritual Gifts *'With prophetic courage and pastoral compassion, Mike Kruger has written an important book on a difficult subject. No one likes to think or talk about spiritual abuse, especially in the church, but if we neglect and ignore this very real problem and don't find the right ways to confront it, woe to us. So if you're a church leader who wants to shepherd the precious flock of God in the paradigm, pattern, and posture of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, pick up this must-read book, then listen and learn.' * Julius J. Kim, PhD, president of the Gospel Coalition *

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Book SynopsisFrom celebrated artist-storyteller Scott Erickson: 25 days of heart-stirring images and thought-provoking meditations to rekindle the wonder of God-with-Us in this Advent season. Honest Advent illuminates the astonishing truth that the God who showed up in the hardest parts of our humanity is still doing so today.Trade ReviewAs a follower of Jesus who has spent the majority of my professional life (thirty years) working alongside my Jesus-following, Jewish wife within very dark, hostile Islamic regimes, we have celebrated many Christmas/Hanukkah seasons hidden away with curtains drawn and doors locked, lighting candles and reading the Scriptures. If Honest Advent had been available then, I would have handed out the book to the Muslim community and walked through the season with them. What a beautiful, timely work of art! * Jamie and Donna Winship, cofounders, Identity Exchange, Inc. *As an often flustered mom in the throes of raising four young kids, I connected so deeply with Honest Advent because it reveals the nearness of God through a painful but beautiful mess I am very familiar with--pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. Though 2020 will be remembered for a lot of hardship and trauma, this book helped draw me closer to Immanuel--what a gift! * Susie Gamez, speaker, writer, and an okay mom *As someone who has been in the work of shedding the layered baggage of my religious past, I've also been looking for opportunities to reclaim what is good and beautiful and true. This book is a reminder of everything good and beautiful and true about Advent. Not necessarily easy or pretty, but good and true--and our world certainly needs more good and true these days. I am grateful for the reclamation that this work will bring to so many people for Advent and beyond. * Brit Barron, author of Worth It *Beautiful. Evocative. A wake-up call to the mystery of life. * John Mark Comer, author of The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry *Honest Advent unearths the beauty and power of life's deepest truths woven into the ancient Christmas stories. Through his gorgeously provocative illustrations and authentically insightful teachings, Scott Erickson rescues us from the commercialization of Christmas by breathing much-needed new life into Advent's themes and ideas. The most wonderful time of the year now has the most wonderful piece of art to go with it. * Colby Martin, author of The Shift and cohost of The Kate and Colby Show *I'm no Scrooge, but the last thing I want to read is another book on the Christmas story. Luckily, that's not what this book is about. Scott Erickson's beautifully crafted book helped me see God-with-Us with fresh eyes. Honest Advent is no shallow seasonal gift book; it's an invitation to explore the divine flourishes of everyday human vulnerabilities. A transformative read, regardless of the time of year. * Jonathan Merritt, author of Learning to Speak God from Scratch and contributing writer to The Atlantic *In this personal and deeply felt collection, Scott Erickson offers a thoughtful, contemplative exploration of the wonder hidden just beyond the popular portrayal of the Christmas narrative. Through twenty-five images and essays, Erickson illuminates a deep and personal appreciation of the central story in the Christian tradition and approaches it, not as a creed to be accepted or even a question to be answered, but rather as a mystery to be explored and embraced. * Nate Staniforth, author of Here Is Real Magic *Readers on a quest for information can sometimes find themselves devouring books too quickly without taking time to chew, not fully tasting the words and their meanings. Scott Erickson's drawings force us to slow down and open up to truth in a new way. Advent is a season for slow contemplative reflection, and this book will be a tasty treat to savor and to help us reflect on the greatest wonder of all--God becoming one of us. * Peri and Brian Zahnd, authors of Every Scene by Heart and Postcards from Babylon *Scott Erickson does a perfect job of removing the current taste of stale commercialization and male centeredness from Advent. He then brings back in the beauty, mystery, and wonder that this season is meant to inspire. If you want an Advent made for our moment of social and racial awakening, and one that doesn't oversimplify, this is it! * Propaganda and Dr. Alma Zaragoza-Petty, The Red Couch Podcast *Scott Erickson's iconographic works serve as portals to the 'kingdom of heaven within us.' In this collection of art and reflection, we're reminded what makes our hearts that heaven--the God who comes nearer than we are to ourselves. I'll be opening these doors with wonder and gratitude. Thanks, Scott, you're such a good doorman! * Brad Jersak, author of IN: Incarnation & Inclusion, Abba & Lamb *Scott Erickson's work is both a blaring anthem and a gentle whisper. He takes the untouchable and makes it familiar. Scott's modern artistic interpretation of the heard-it-a-million-times Christmas story invites both the skeptic and the Christ-follower into transformative vulnerability. This is a book not just for the holiday season but for everyday awakening to the sacred unknowns we each carry. * Joy Prouty, photographic artist *The primary job of an artist is to see. And while a great deal of the excitement around Scott Erickson has had to do with his talent for (and with) imagery, what has made his work vital and unique has always been his vision--a vision for God in the world, for people in the shadow of God, and for people in relationship with one another. This beautiful book is the fullest expression of the kind of vision that makes Scott a gift. Good artists have a knack for clearly and engrossingly letting us in on how they see their world. Great artists change the way we see ours. Scott is becoming a great artist. * Justin McRoberts, author of It Is What You Make of It *There are so many things I love about Scott Erickson, and this Advent book brings them all together. I sense that he is always doing his own work, learning how to live in the body and mind he's been given, making sense of the world through all of the means--psychology, sociology, art, science, spirituality, and wonder--so that when he turns his lens toward something, anything, out come these well-formed, beautifully connected scenes. This lens, turned toward Mary, Jesus, and incarnation, helps me break through the incredibly solidified narratives of Christmas into something that moves me again and helps me connect with the real earth, the blood, sweat, and tears--this happened here, on this earth, in our way, through human birth. * Sara Groves, recording artist, advocate *There is something so enticingly refreshing about the perspective and conversation of Advent through the feminine lens. Scott Erickson's reflection of the Advent season through the connection of the misrepresented women in the Savior story not only is healing and restorative but also brings us back into the story, where the feminine and the divine have always been. * Arielle Estoria, poet, author, speaker *This beautifully crafted piece of art explores immaculately the invasion of the best that Christmas means: Presence in our Present. * Paul Young, The Shack *Through striking visuals and conversational prose, Scott Erickson has created a doorway between the foreign and the familiar, the simple and the complex, holiday and the everyday. On any day of the year, but especially through the time of Advent, land on any page in this book to find a prayer, a bridge, an invitation into what is coming and out of the boxes we put around God. * Hillary McBride, PhD, RCC, therapist, researcher, and author *We know of few other voices that so powerfully bring back the luster to tarnished, sacred things. Scott Erickson's Advent meditations will be an evergreen gift for the weary soul, calling out fresh and upending wonder at the incarnation, what it meant then, and how we are to be now. * Jay and Katherine Wolf, authors of Hope Heals and Suffer Strong *When I was an evangelical, I thought Christmas took too much emphasis away from Easter. When I was an atheist, I thought Christmas reinforced an absurd fairy tale. Me and Christmas, well, it's complicated. That's why I love Honest Advent. As a meditation on the vulnerability of God through the strange mystery of Christ's incarnation, Scott invites us not to master that mystery, but to experience it. * Mike McHargue, author of You’re a Miracle (and a Pain in the Ass) and host of Ask Science Mike podcast *With the specific audacity and humility of an artist, Scott Erickson's captivating words and images flip, spin, and reconsider the reality of God-with-Us and the transformative notion of that presence in, with, and through our humanity. He invites us to look afresh and find newness and wonder in the Advent story through the female body--not through its typical maligning but as a way God chose to be with us. * Marlita Hill, author of Defying Discord *

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Book SynopsisThe Story reveals the unfolding, grand narrative of the Scriptures. Using the clear, accessible text of the NIV, this rendering of the Bible allows its stories, poems, and teachings to come together in a single, compelling read. Now with the exclusive Zondervan NIV Comfort Print typeface.

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Book SynopsisAlmost everyone is directly affected by questions involving sex and sexual ethics - yet few are aware of the background to current views on topics such as sex before and after marriage, sex as procreation and fulfilment, homosexuality, sexual abuse, rape and contraception. This new edition offers added and up-to-date material discussion burning current issues in a thoughtful, reflective and challenging way.

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Book Synopsis''Passionate, challenging, tumultuously articulate . . . Fascinating.'' John Carey, Sunday Times''A wonderful, effortlessly brilliant book.'' Evening Standard''A rare gem, a book that carries conviction by being honest all the way through.'' John Gray, IndependentUnapologetic is a book for those curious about how faith can possibly work in the twenty-first century. But it isn''t an argument that Christianity is true - because how could anyone know that (or indeed its opposite)? It''s an argument that Christianity is recognisable, drawing on the deep and deeply ordinary vocabulary of human feeling, satisfying those who believe in it by offering a ruthlessly realistic account of the bits of our lives advertising agencies prefer to ignore.Trade ReviewA unique book, cutting its way ruthlessly through thickets of both religious and anti-religious sentimentality; painfully funny at points, always impassioned and never glib. Rowan Williams, Master, Magdalene College, Cambridge University and former Archbishop of Canterbury Spufford has the great virtue of making the reader want to argue with him, while simultaneously yearning to hear more. Daily Telegraph Remarkable, passionate, challenging and tumultuously articulate book ... this is Spufford's most fascinating book. Our Choice, Sunday Times An interesting additional to the religious cannon ... a refreshing approach, which makes the book far more palatable than the nearly hysterical polemics we have come to expect from both sides. Spufford writes well, and his rationality shines through here. Sunday Business Post

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Book SynopsisNo Future Without Forgiveness is a quintessentially humane account of an extraordinary life. Desmond Tutu describes his childhood and coming of age in the apartheid era in South Africa. He examines his reactions on being able to vote for the first time at the age of 62 - and on Nelson Mandela''s election, also his feelings on being Archbishop of Cape Town and his award of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984. No Future Without Forgiveness is also his fascinating experience as head of South Africa''s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The latter was a pioneering international experiment to expose many of the worst atrocities committed under apartheid, and to rehabilitate the dignity of its victims. Tutu draws important parallels between the Commissioners'' approach to the situation in South Africa with other areas of conflict such as Northern Ireland, the Middle East, Rwanda and the Balkans.

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Book SynopsisWell-loved Bible stories to read aloud and then read alone.Table of ContentsContents Introduction 6 The Old Testament In the Beginning 8 The story of creation: Genesis 1-2 A Sad Day 10 The story of the fall: Genesis 3 A Special Promise 12 The story of Noah: Genesis 6-9 The Tall Tower 14 The story of the Tower of Babel: Genesis 11 God's Friend 16 The call of Abraham: Genesis 12, 17-18, 21 The Bad Brother 18 The story of Jacob and Esau: Genesis 27 The Runaway 20 The story of Jacob and Laban: Genesis 28-29, 33 Joseph the Dreamer 22 The story of the young Joseph: Genesis 37 Joseph the Prisoner 24 The story of Joseph and the king's dreams: Genesis 39-41 Joseph the Ruler 26 The story of Joseph in Egypt: Genesis 42-45 The Secret Baby 28 The birth of Moses: Exodus 1-2 The Burning Bush 30 The call of Moses: Exodus 3-4 The Great Escape 32 The story of the exodus: Exodus 7-14 A Long Journey 34 Moses leads his people through the wilderness: Exodus 16-40 Spies in Canaan 36 Entering the Promised Land: Numbers 13-14, Deuteronomy 1 The Walls Fall Down 38 The battle of Jericho: Joshua 6 A Brave and Mighty Man 40 The story of Gideon: Judges 6-7 Samson's Great Deeds 42 Tales of a strong man: Judges 14-16 Samson and Delilah 44 A story of betrayal: Judges 16 Samson and the Philistines 46 Samson's last act: Judges 16 Ruth Finds a New Home 48 The story of a foreigner: Ruth 1-4 Samuel Hears a Voice 50 The call of Samuel: 1 Samuel 3 Samuel the Kingmaker 52 Samuel chooses Israel's king: 1 Samuel 8-16 David the Giant-Killer 54 The story of David and Goliath: 1 Samuel 17 The Wise King 56 The wisdom of Solomon: 1 Kings 3 Elijah and the Ravens 58 Elijah in hiding: 1 Kings 16-17 A Jar and a Jug 60 Elijah and the widow: 1 Kings 17 God Sends Fire 62 Elijah and the prophets of Baal: 1 Kings 18 The Helpful Servant 64 The story of Naaman: 2 Kings 5 Jonah the Groaner 66 The story of Jonah: Jonah Hezekiah Trusts God 68 A miracle of healing: 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32, Isaiah 38 Down in the Well 70 The story of Jeremiah: Jeremiah 38 The Boys Who Liked to Say No 72 Four boys who kept God's rules: Daniel 1 The Men Who Liked to Say No 74 The story of the fiery furnace: Daniel 3 Daniel and the Lions 76 Daniel in the lions' den: Daniel 6 Esther Was a Star 78 A Jewish girl saves her people: Esther 2-9 A Time to Build 80 Rebuilding Jerusalem: Nehemiah 1-4 The New Testament The First Christmas 84 The birth of Jesus: Matthew 1, Luke 1-2 The Wise Men's Visit 86 The story of the wise men: Matthew 2 The Boy in the Temple 88 The visit to the Temple: Luke 2 Jesus is Baptized 90 The baptism of Jesus: Matthew 3, Mark 1, Luke 3, John 1 Jesus' Special Friends 92 Jesus calls the first disciples: Luke 5 Down Through the Roof 94 Jesus heals a paralysed man: Luke 5 The Centurion's Servant 96 Jesus heals a Roman's servant: Luke 7 The Storm on the Lake 98 Jesus calms the wind and waves: Matthew 8, Mark 4, Luke 8 'Time to Get Up' 100 The story of Jairus' daughter: Matthew 9, Mark 5, Luke 8 The Marvellous Picnic 102 Jesus feeds five thousand people: Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9 The Kind Stranger 104 The story of the good Samaritan: Luke 10 The Two Sisters 106 Jesus visits Mary and Martha: Luke 10 The Unforgiving Servant 108 Jesus' story about forgiveness: Matthew 18 'I Can See!' 110 Jesus heals a blind man: John 9 The Two Houses 112 The parable of the two builders: Matthew 7, Luke 6 The Big Party 114 The parable of the great feast: Matthew 22, Luke 14 The Good Shepherd 116 The parable of the lost sheep: Matthew 18, Luke 15 The Lost Coin 118 The parable of the lost coin: Luke 15 The Big Spender 120 The parable of the lost son: Luke 15 Big Bags of Money 122 The parable of the talents: Matthew 25 The Man Who Came Back 124 Jesus heals ten men: Luke 17 The Pharisee and the Tax Collector 126 Jesus' story about heartfelt prayer: Luke 18 Jesus and the Children 128 Jesus blesses little children: Matthew 19, Mark 10, Luke 18 Jesus and the Taxman 130 Jesus and Zacchaeus: Luke 19 The Great Parade 132 The story of Palm Sunday: Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12 The Widow's Coins 134 Jesus' story about giving: Mark 12, Luke 21 An Important Meal 136 The last supper and a betrayal: Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13 A Dreadful Day 138 The story of Good Friday: Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 19 A Happy Day 140 The story of Easter: Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20 On the Road to Emmaus 142 A resurrection appearance: Luke 24 Goodbye at Last 144 Jesus appears to his friends: Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 21 The Helper Arrives 146 Pentecost: Acts 2 The Beautiful Gate 148 Peter and John heal a lame man: Acts 3 On the Road to Damascus 150 Paul's conversion: Acts 7-9 Tabitha Wakes Up 152 Peter heals a good woman: Acts 9 The Earth Shakes 154 Paul and Silas in prison: Acts 16 Paul is Shipwrecked 156 Paul goes to Rome: Acts 2-21, 27-28 Sharing stories with a crowd 158

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Book SynopsisBeloved Bible teacher Dr. David Jeremiah equips readers with seven critical tools from God''s Word that empower us to live confidently, act boldly, and never stumble.

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Book SynopsisThe KJV Personal Size Large Print Reference Bible is as easy to read as it is to carry along with you. At the same time, it has a substantial set of resources to enhance your time reading and studying the Scriptures.

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Book SynopsisEach year we begin anew the journey to the radiant feast of Pascha, entering the season of repentance known as Great Lent. The homilies presented in this modest volume, from one of the spiritual giants of the Orthodox Church of Russia, can both encourage and inform us in this struggle of the Fast. For the first time a selection of St John's Lenten sermons is presented in English translation. They follow the thematic structure of the Lenten season in the Orthodox Church, from the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee through to Great and Holy Friday. A sermon for St Thomas Sunday, that follows Holy Pascha, is offered as an Epilogue.

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Book SynopsisThis pocket-size hieratikon contains all the texts necessary for a deacon or priest in serving the daily hours of the Orthodox Church - Vespers, Compline, Midnight Office, Matins and the hours. Church Slavonic and English texts are provided in parallel, on facing pages. Also included are instructions and additional prayers for the All-Night Vigil and the services of Great Lent, the festal and Sunday prokeimena, and festal megolynaria. The cloth binding is sewn for durability and supplemented with a marking ribbon.Please click here to download the Menologion and Daily Dismissal sections of the service book.Table of ContentsThe Order of Vespers The Order of Compline and the Midnight Office The Order of Matins The Order of Small Vespers The Order of the All-Night Vigil During the Holy Forty Days of Lent The Prokeimena for Lent and the Pentecostarion Period The Prokeimena for Sundays, and Common Prokeimena for the Saints THe Magnifications for the Feasts The Festal and Weekday Dismissals

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Book SynopsisThis beautiful NIV edition of the Bible is bound in cloth and foil stamped with an illustration inspired by the Garden of Eden. Designed to sit alongside classic literature on your bookshelf , this is an edition to be treasured forever. The New International Version is the world''s most popular modern English Bible. It is renowned for its combination of reliability and readability. Fully revised and updated in 2011, the NIV is ideal for personal reading, public teaching and group study. This edition uses British spelling, punctuation and grammar to allow the Bible to be read more naturally.This Bible also features- clear, readable 9pt text- easy-to-read layout- ribbon marker- shortcuts to key stories, events and people of the Bible- reading plan- timeline.Royalties from all sales of the NIV Bible help Biblica in their work of translating and distributing accurate and readable Bibles around the world.

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Book SynopsisBills pile up. Savings accounts go down. Marriages go south. Pandemics rage. Work goes off the rails. Stress goes off the charts. Suddenly, you feel powerless to calm life''s chaos. It’s all too much to take on by yourself. But pastor and bestselling author Max Lucado has great news for you--Help Is Here.Now more than ever, we''re all weary from the loads we carry and the challenges we face. We have questions we cannot answer and problems we cannot solve. We''d hoped that life would be an invigorating adventure or an inspiring journey. We never expected to grow so tired so quickly. But Max teaches us that we can find fresh strength and purpose in the power of the Holy Spirit.The Bible makes more than a hundred references to the Holy Spirit, and Jesus says more about the Spirit than he does about the church, marriage, finances, and the future. But do we really know the Spirit? In Help Is Here, Max will give you the tools and enco

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Book SynopsisNumber-one New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst helps readers stop the dysfunction of unhealthy relationships by showing them biblical ways to set boundaries--and, when necessary, say goodbye--without losing the best of who they are.

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Book SynopsisThe KJV Compact Reference Bible offers the literary beauty of the King James Version in a hand-sized volume that features Thomas Nelson’s KJV Comfort Print, an exclusive font that was designed to be the easiest to read at any size.This edition is perfect for those who like to carry their Bibles with them throughout the day. With book introductions, extensive cross-references, a beautiful layout, and the words of Christ in red, this Bible packs a lot into a small package. Presentation page allows you to personalize this special gift by recording a memory or note Bible book introductions provide an overview and context for each book Words of Christ in red quickly identify Jesus’ teachings and statements End-of-column cross-references help you find related passages quickly and easily Miracles and parables of Jesus calls out

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Book SynopsisOffering a convenient size and a large print, this Bible also provides over 43,000 cross-references to help you study anywhere.You don’t have to sacrifice readability for portability. With the NKJV Large Print Personal Size Reference Bible, you get the full text of the popular New King James Version presented in a large print format that’s easy to carry. And with Thomas Nelson’s NKJV Comfort Print®, this edition is even easier to read. An extensive cross-reference system and other essential study resources make this a Bible you’ll want with you, wherever your day takes you.Features include: 43,000 end-of-page cross-references allow you to find related passages quickly and easily Full-color maps show a visual representation of locations and themes in the Bible Easy-to-navigate dictionary-concordance

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Book SynopsisSometime around 56 AD, the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Rome. His letter was arguably his theological masterpiece, and has continued to shape Christian faith ever since. He entrusted this letter to Phoebe, the deacon of the church at Cenchreae; in writing to the church that almost surely met in her home, Paul refers to her both as a deacon and as a helper or patron of many. But who was this remarkable woman? In this, her first novel, Biblical scholar and popular author and speaker Paula Gooder tells Phoebe''s story - who she was, the life she lived and her first-century faith - and in doing so opens up Paul''s theology, giving a sense of the cultural and historical pressures that shaped Paul''s thinking, and the faith of the early church. Written in the gripping style of Gerd Theissen''s The Shadow of the Galilean, and similarly rigorously researched, this is a novel for everyone and anyone who wants to engage more deeply and imaginatively witTrade ReviewAn engrossing story... Gooder's profound scholarship is lightly and effectively incorporated... Electrifying... a very effective and thought-provoking dramatization... Highly recommended * Miranda Threlfall-Holmes *This book is a really vivid and sympathetic picture of the world of the first Christians, opened up through the personality of Paul's colleague and friend, Phoebe. Very few people are as expert as Paula Gooder in communicating biblical scholarship clearly and creatively, and this first venture into historical story-telling will bring the biblical text freshly alive for a wide and enthusiastic readership. * Rowan Williams *Enter Dr Paula Gooder, with her fine scholarship, brilliant research and articulate imagination... If I had one word to describe Phoebe, it would be 'charm'. * Richard Littledale *Gooder's application of Christian theology to her story of Phoebe is masterful * Church Times *Phoebe does not disappoint: it is a very enjoyable and interesting story. * Christian Librarian Magazine *'An engrossing story... Gooder's profound scholarship is lightly and effectively incorporated... Electrifying... a very effective and thought-provoking dramatization... Highly recommended'. * Miranda Threlfall-Holmes *This is a clever book which delights on two levels . . . if the story is good, the commentary is better, and one suspects this is Gooder's prime purpose . . . I strongly recommend this book, which will both entertain and inform. * Alice Burdett *scholarship ... underpins every element of the story. * Madeleine Davies *'In Phoebe, the New Testament scholar Paula Gooder sets out to imagine the biography that history alone cannot reconstruct. She makes use of her considerable expertise to endow Phoebe with a dramatic but believable past, and populates the nascent church in Rome with characters who are credible... A vivid and accessible introduction to the context in which Paul and Phoebe operated... For anyone who wants to understand more about the small and distinctive world of early Christianity, Phoebe is to be recommended.' * Times Literary Supplement *

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Book SynopsisExam board: OCRLevel: A-levelSubject: Religious StudiesFirst teaching: September 2016First exams: Summer 2018 Strengthen and refine the understanding and skills that your students require to excel in OCR A Level Religious Studies.Written by subject specialists with examining experience, this time-saving Workbook can be used flexibly for classwork or homework, throughout the course or for revision and exam practice.- Review knowledge with content summaries that will provide a concise overview of what students need to know for the exam- Develop exam skills with practice questions that check understanding and highlight common pitfalls- Build exam confidence as students work through the exam-style questions provided, giving them the chance to practise and perfect their technique- Save marking time and help students understand how to improve their responses by consulting the online answers supplied for all questions

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Book SynopsisMessenger, sentinel, steward ... these three words have been used to describe the work of a priest in the Church of England since Cranmer wrote the original ordination rite in 1550. Two more, servant and shepherd, were added in 1980. Taken together, these five metaphors provide a rich and resonant set of ideas through which to explore the nature of Christian ministry. In this short, lyrical book, Bishop Stephen Cottrell explores each one; based on actual addresses given to ordinands on the night before their ordination, it is refreshing, challenging and accessible. Anyone considering ordination or already in ministry will want to read this book for the fascinating exploration of the five metaphors he considers.Trade ReviewThis book is a helpful reminder to all of us - ordained, commissioned or neither - to allow God to do what God needs to do through us. * Reform *[Stephen Cottrell] inhabits pastures rich in scripture, peopled by the greatest and wisest minds of the Church down the centuries, and grounded in more than thirty years of ministerial experience. His hinterland embraces the fields of poetry and music and much else besides. This is catholic writing in every sense. -- The Rt Revd Graham James, former Bishop of Norwich * Church Times *

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Book SynopsisIn the Song of Songs the son of David, King in Jerusalem, overcomes hostility and alienation to renew intimacy between himself and his Bride. This most sublime Song sings of a love sure as the seal of Yahweh, a flashing flame of fire many waters could never quench. James M. Hamilton Jr, in this latest addition to the popular Focus on the Bible series, pours fresh light on this inspiring and uplifting book. Trade ReviewThis beautifully written book of sound Christ-centered biblical exposition and skillful personal application, will not only strengthen and heal many marriages, but will also draw many Christians into a deeper appreciation and enjoyment of their marriage to Christ. Unlike most books on the Song of Songs, this one will make you sing! -- David Murray (Senior Pastor, First Byron CRC, Byron Center, Michigan and author of ‘The StoryChanger’ and ‘Jesus on Every Page’)...a fresh, biblically-theologically informed approach to the Song of Solomon. This is a commentary pastors should regularly turn to when preaching through this important but difficult book of Scripture. And make no mistake-reading this commentary will make you want to preach this book. -- R. Albert Mohler (President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky)

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Book SynopsisIn the opening pages of the Psalms, believers discover foundational truth for right living and great delight as children of God. Trusted theologian Dale Ralph Davis leads readers through a careful study of Psalms 1–12 with clear application for daily life. These beautiful Psalms see the Psalmist go through both good and terribly bad times. The righteous rely on God, and the Psalms teach us how. This book is ideal for use by small groups, as a teaching guide or for reference.

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Book SynopsisSummer is a liturgical resource book that covers the months of May, June and July. It includes prayers, stories, responses, songs, poems, reflections, monologues, liturgies and reflections for the major Christian festivals and seasons ofEastertide and Pentecost, as well as for Ascension, Saints' days, pilgrimage, holidays and other occasions. The material is written by Iona Community members, associates, friends and others. RaspberriesAll the year roundI can buy them pre-packedon the supermarket shelves,and sometimes I do. But to fiercely prune themtalk to themstake themwater themwatch the bees buzz around themfeel the sun warming themprotect them from interested birdsnurture themsee their colour deepenwatch them swell to ripenesssmell their promise of sweetnessand then to pick themtheir juice staining my fingersand to eat them ... Wow!Ripe raspberries. It's summertime. Rejoice! Ruth Burgess

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Book SynopsisUsing plain language and word pictures, Spurgeon shares an earnest word for those who are seeking salvation. It has been written to show clearly how much we all need grace and how much grace is available for our needs. The writer would like to compel us, by his words, to come to Jesus Christ and receive that grace. A classic on a great subject written by one of the greatest preachers who ever lived.

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Book SynopsisBringing us the untold--often hidden--story of Advent, Kelley Nikondeha takes us back to the original landscapes. Then, as now, Palestine was the geographic, socioeconomic, and political backdrop of the Gospel narratives that wrestle with dark themes of violence, exploitive economics, and abuse to arrive at the hard-won hope of Jesus's birth.

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Book SynopsisChildress opens the door to the amazing world of ancient technology, from the computers of the ancient world to the ''flying machines of the gods''. The book explores the technology that was allegedly used in Atlantis and the theory that the great pyramid of Egypt was originally a gigantic power station. From beginning to end, the book is filled with facts, keen observations and tales that challenge modern assumptions in a humorous, intelligent and compelling way.

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