Christianity Books

Book SynopsisDiscover the secret Joshua gave the Israelites for prosperity and success: keeping God’s Word in your mouth through memorization and in your heart through meditation day and night. In The Joshua Code, O. S. Hawkins leads you on a yearlong journey to spend each week memorizing and meditating on one scripture verse so that it becomes a living part of your very being.Author O. S. Hawkins explains each scripture’s meaning so that it is easy-to-understand and aids the spiritual growth of readers. The 52 relevant and timely topics include: Grace Temptation Prayer The Devil Salvation And much more This beautiful book features gold foil on the cover and a ribbon marker to keep your place as you study God’s Word throughout the year. The Joshua Code makes a perfect gift for new believers and also for friends and loved ones more seasoned in the faith.

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Book SynopsisJohn Piper explores Scripture's command to love the second coming of Christ, and what it is about this event that makes it so desirable. While encouraging Christians to have a genuine longing for Jesus's presence, Piper addresses pressing questions about the end times.

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Book SynopsisLuke is the fifth release in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series, the only commentary series with a graphical display, theology in application section and identification of the main idea for each section.

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Book SynopsisIn Wishful Thinking, the first book in his much-loved lexical trilogy, Frederick Buechner puts the language of God, the universe, and the human spirit under his wry linguistic microscope. In his often ironic and always keen-sighted reflections on such terms as agnostic, envy, love, and sin, he invited us to look at theses everyday words in new and enlightening ways. Freshly revised and expanded for this edition, Wishful Thinking is a beguiling [Time] adventure in language for the restless believer, the doubter, and all who love words.

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Book SynopsisPeterson''s eloquent meditation on the Revelation of St. John engages the imagination and awakens the intellect to the vitality and relevance of the last words on scripture, Christ, church, worship, evil, prayer, witness, politics, judgement, salvation, and heaven.

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Book SynopsisThe story of the Dundee mill girl who, inspired by David Livingstone, became a missionary herself in Calabar, a part of Africa known as 'the White Man's Grave'. There she adopted many children who would otherwise have been left to die; when her mediating skills were recognised she became the British Empire's first woman magistrate. Her name lives on in the Mary Slessor Foundation, a charity working in Africa to improve health, skills training and facilitate agricultural projects. Mary Slessor was one of the most remarkable Scotswomen of any generation and the first to be depicted on a Scottish banknote. First published in 2001; this edition has had some material updated and two replacement photographs.Table of Contents1. Early Days in Dundee 2. First Impressions of Calabar 3. A Real Missionary at Last 4. Tragic Prelude to the Okoyong 5. 'It's a Gunboat they need, not a Missionary' 6. The Power of Witchcraft 7. 'The Civilising Influence of that Admirable Lady, Miss Slessor 8. A Most Unlikely Vice-consul 9. Gain and Loss 10. The Aftermath of the Aro Expedition of 1901 11. The British Empire's First Woman Magistrate 12. The End of her Journey

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Book SynopsisTrent, the Catholic Church’s attempt to put its house in order after the Reformation, has long been praised and blamed for things it never did. This one-volume history, the first in modern times, explores the volatile issues that pushed several Holy Roman emperors, kings and queens of France, five popes, and all of Europe to the brink of disaster.Trade ReviewJohn O’Malley is the doyen of historians of the Catholic reformation… His new history of Trent sets out to bring the cold light of historical scrutiny to bear on the legends that surround the council itself and its achievements. There is, astonishingly, no modern study of the Council of Trent in English…[so] O’Malley’s lively one-volume survey is to be welcomed on that score alone. But his scrupulously researched and balanced book is also an intervention in fraught and sometimes acrimonious controversies within the modern Roman Catholic Church… His concern is to deconstruct the myth of Trent and ‘Tridentinism’ as a timeless encapsulation of the unchanging continuities of a Catholicism immune to history. Trent, in his view, was no monolith but a straggling historical event, stretched out over two decades and often at the mercy of the European politics that had delayed its convening until all realistic hope of a reconciliation with Protestantism had passed. -- Eamon Duffy * New York Review of Books *The decrees of Trent would define the Catholic Church for the next four and a half centuries. Understanding what happened at the Council has never been easy, so John O’Malley is to be congratulated for providing this detailed and elegant account of one of the era’s most important and puzzling events… The astonishing thing is that it has taken so long for a scholar to write an excellent short account of this most crucial of events. -- Jonathan Wright * Times Literary Supplement *Trent: What Happened at the Council is written with the clarity and learning one expects of a Jesuit scholar. Its introduction and epilogue are especially cogent expositions of the basic accomplishments of Trent… The bulk of the book, however, comes across as both fascinating and somewhat disillusioning, as we observe the constant tug of earthly powers in the formulation of spiritual doctrine. There are no angelic doctors, as Thomas Aquinas was called, among the council’s deeply savvy leaders. The dark ascendancy of party politics must, I suspect, be counted one further consequence of Original Sin. -- Michael Dirda * Washington Post *John O’Malley has done it again. In 2008, he published his splendid What Happened at Vatican II, the best one-volume history of the Second Vatican Council, at least in English. In producing the best one-volume history of the Council of Trent (1545–63), he has rendered equal service to the history of Catholicism… O’Malley’s new history of Trent will be just as influential as his history of Vatican II… Readers of What Happened at Vatican II will enjoy this new conciliar history… In exposing the myths about and elucidating the realities of Trent, O’Malley reconstructs a dramatic event in the history of Catholicism… Anyone interested in the development of the Church’s modern history can now readily engage O’Malley as a guide to what happened not only at Vatican II but also at the Council of Trent. -- Hilmar Pabel * The Tablet *[O’Malley] has written what is, amazingly, the first one-volume, scholarly narrative history of the council in English… This is a history that is engaged and committed as well as being critical—sometimes searingly so… It is important to remember what actually happened at the council. And that is why this little book, this readable masterpiece of compression, is going to be so indispensable. -- Alec Ryrie * Times Higher Education *The very considerable achievement of John O’Malley, an immensely learned American Jesuit and academic, is twofold: he strips away these accumulated layers of myth to provide a balanced and convincing account of the Council in its proper historical context; and, more impressively still, he manages to conjure a compelling narrative out of potentially dry-as-dust procedural deliberations and abstruse doctrinal formulations. What emerges most strongly from this account is the sheer unlikeliness of the Council ever having been convened in 1545, and the yet more unlikely circumstance of its successful conclusion 18 years later… O’Malley’s beautifully crafted short account gives readers as much as most of them will need to know about the course and conduct of the Council, while somehow managing to fit in sensitive evaluations of key achievements (the decree on justification and the reform of marriage law) and lively pen portraits of unlikely heroes, such as the can-do papal legate Giovanni Morone, and Charles de Guise, Cardinal of Lorraine, the debonair aristocrat who was also a serious-minded reformer. The abiding impression is of a more rounded, nuanced and less monolithic Catholicism than the brisk syllable ‘Trent’ usually manages to convey. -- Peter Marshall * Literary Review *[A] superb new history of the Council of Trent… Thanks to John O’Malley, a veteran Jesuit historian of the Counter-Reformation, we now have a beautifully clear and honest reappraisal of the tangled story of Trent, in all its complexity, paradox, achievement and lost opportunity. It is the first time that English-speaking readers have had this privilege, for all other accounts of Trent have been either too short, or too long for non-specialists… The great impression left by this excellent book is that Trent settled much less than people think. -- Diarmaid MacCulloch * London Review of Books *Every historian of early modern Christianity that I know would agree: in 1993 John O’Malley, S.J., put us all in his debt with the publication of The First Jesuits. This year he moves us deeper into the red with his new book Trent: What Happened at the Council… It is quite simply the most engaging book on the council that I have read. -- Denis R. Janz * America *O’Malley gives a shrewdly judged amount of the quotidian details of [the bishops’] debates, the background machinations and theological context, yet never overburdens us with arcane details or allows his account to resemble corporate minutes. Nor does he resile from the inevitable conclusion: the timorous participants, overawed by theological pedantry and fear of papal sanctions, squibbed almost every moral or reform challenge that confronted them during the 18 years of the council’s intermittent activities. The cost to Christendom was enormous… [An] engrossing history. -- John Carmody * The Australian *Provides a concise yet no less scholarly overview of the ups and downs of this frequently name-checked Council… Trent: What Happened at the Council is written with comfortable, accessible authority and really is a vital and intriguing overview of a Council that still casts such an influence some 450 years later. -- David Gibson * The Catholic Times *O’Malley’s lively narrative shows how so much was accomplished despite the chaos and difficulties: Trent, even when it didn’t enact legislation itself, set Catholicism on the road to reforming its late medieval abuses. -- Brian Bethune * Maclean’s *This comprehensive account of the 16th-century Council of Trent is the first book of its kind to appear in English, weaving together a detailed narrative of the politics and deliberations of the council with a careful analysis of the decrees that reshaped early modern Catholicism in often subtle and unintended ways… The result is an engaging, accessible treatment of this watershed episode in church history that thoroughly contextualizes both its successes and its failures. -- J. W. McCormack * Choice *Jesuit historian O’Malley goes beyond the myths to study what actually happened at the Council of Trent (1545–63), at which the Catholic Church codified its teachings. In clear, crisp prose, he clears up misconceptions about the Church at the time (e.g., that Catholics did not read the Bible and priests did not give sermons), shows that many ideas widely considered ‘Tridentine’ actually arose after Trent, and corrects misconceptions: that the council mandated the Mass be in Latin, and that it established a ‘Tridentine’ liturgy. Using the Acts of the council as his source, O’Malley gives an almost day-by-day account, putting the council’s debates in political and religious context of the issues of the day, especially the counter-Reformation and the battle between Pope and princes… Making use of telling details about the very human men who made up the council, O’Malley deftly weaves the story of reformers and traditionalists, to offer an enlightening view of this most influential Church council that will appeal to those interested in church history or in the history of modern Europe. -- Augustine J. Curley * Library Journal *Despite my diligent efforts, the Council of Trent has always been something of mystery to me. Thanks to John O’Malley, I now know the principal characters and the doctrinal and political issues about which they were so passionately concerned. And O’Malley’s narrative skills make us see the scene, the weather, even the problems of stabling and feeding the hordes of horses necessary to bring the carriages of the participants to a smallish town. A major contribution to the history of the Church. -- Jill Ker Conway, President Emerita, Smith CollegeAt last, a contemporary history of the Council that made the modern church. And what a history: learned, lucid, and rich in historical insight. -- Anthony Grafton, Princeton UniversityIn Trent: What Happened at the Council, distinguished author John O’Malley disentangles for us the complicated history of one of the most important ecumenical councils ever held, extracting for us the essential issues from the often animated discussions and the technically formulated decrees on doctrine and reform. Written in a lively literary style without recondite terminology, this compendious account of the Council of Trent will be useful not only to students of church history, theology, and canon law, but also to anyone interested in the religious and cultural developments of the early modern Western world. -- Robert Trisco, Catholic University of America

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Book SynopsisNew issue of a theological classic on the atonement.Originally published in 1955 and reprinted dozens of times over the years, John Murray's Redemption Accomplished and Applied systematically explains the two sides of redemption -- its accomplishment through Christ's atonement and its application to the lives of believers.Murray explores the biblical passages dealing with the necessity, nature, perfection, and extent of the atonement in order to establish its relationship to our justification, sanctification, and glorification. He goes on to identify the distinct steps in the Bible's presentation of how the redemption accomplished by Christ is applied progressively to the life of the redeemed, including the role of faith and repentance.Concise, precise, and accessible, Murray's classic doctrinal study will now reach and benefit a new generation of readers.

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Book SynopsisHow does Saint Christopher keep us safe when we travel? Why is Saint Patrick always depicted with a nest of snakes? How did Cecilia come to be the patron saint of music? These wonders and more are explained in this treasure of a book. The perfect gift for the devout or any religious occasion, this captivating collection recounts the extraordinary legends, heartrending stories, joys, and sorrows of the most beloved saints, from the famous to the mysteriously obscure. Beautifully illustrated with historical pictures from prayer books and missals, this elegant keepsake is packaged with a padded cover, gilded edges, and a ribbon marker—a joy to have and to give.

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Book SynopsisIn this 10-week study of Paul's letter to the Philippians, learn how to find peace in Christ through challenges and press on for the sake of the gospel. Part of the Flourish Bible Study series.

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Book SynopsisExplore the Bible alongside daily insights from pastor-teacher Dr. John MacArthurFor more than 50 years, Dr. John MacArthur has helped Christians gain greater clarity and insight into Scripture. Now you can read through the Bible in a year while learning from wisdom gleaned from a lifetime of study with The MacArthur Daily Bible. This Bible offers an achievable approach to reading the entire Bible with readings from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs for each day of the year. Combined with insights drawn from The MacArthur Study Bible, you will gain greater clarity and understanding as you read.Features include: The complete NASB (1995) translation presented with daily readings from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs Daily notes from Dr. John MacArthur drawn from the MacArthur Study Bible to help you better understand key tr

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Book SynopsisIn this deeply insightful extended meditation on the Gospel of John, Tom Wright shows how Christianity points us to a compelling explanation for the world, and for our role and responsibility within it.Trade ReviewWright's insights are always worth reading. . . His engaging writing style grips the reader from the opening pages. * Life and Work *Tom Wright is one of the great biblical commentators of our day, whose writing on the Bible will stand the test of time. * Woman Alive *Again and again he manages to bring his colossal intelligence and immense scholarship together in an extraordinarily accessible manner. * Church Times *

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Book SynopsisPractical, personal, biblical and motivational, this bestselling book has sold over 250,000 copies and been a definitive go-to guide to intercessory prayer for years. Fully revised and updated, with an in-depth study guide, the fourth edition of this classic text offers new and vital insights and practical tips on spiritual warfare and praying effectively.

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Book SynopsisThere are few writers on prayer who speak with more authority than Metropolitan Anthony. In this book we can share his spirituality and his deep understanding of the link between contemplation and action in Christian life.

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Book SynopsisWithout Buddha I Could not be a Christian narrates how esteemed theologian, Paul F. Knitter, overcame a crisis of faith by looking to Buddhism for inspiration. From prayer to how Christianity views life after death, Knitter argues that a Buddhist standpoint can encourage a more person-centred conception of Christianity where individual religious experience comes first, and liturgy and tradition second. Moving and revolutionary, this edition comes with a new conclusion – ‘Jesus and Buddha Both Come First!’ ‘A compelling example of religious inquiry.’ New York Times ‘One of the finest contemporary books on the encounter between religions in the heart and soul of a single thoughtful person.’ Library JournalTrade Review"In this revealing retrospective, Knitter recounts very personally how his encounters with liberation theology and with other religions, especially Buddhism, challenged and transformed his Christian faith. This will be of interest to all who are concerned with religious diversity and social justice." -- Leo Lefebure, Professor of Theology, Georgetown University and author of The Buddha and the Christ"The dialogue between Christianity and Buddhism is one of the most important conversations of our time, and Paul Knitter's new book shows why. It offers much more than words: religion at its best transforms us, and herein we see its fruits. If you want to know how religions can help to revitalize each other, this is the place to start." -- David Loy, Besl Family Chair for Ethics/Religion and Society at Xavier University and author of Money Sex War Karma: Notes for a Buddhist Revolution"A compelling example of religious inquiry." * New York Times, *"Knitter's rich book should be a source of fascination and guidance for seekers of all sorts. One of the finest contemporary books on the encounter between religions in the heart and soul of a single thoughtful person." * Library Review *"Radiates wisdom and warmth. Is it possible to become more fully Christian by taking most seriously the Buddhist path -- becoming Buddhist in order to live more fully the Christian life? Agree or not with Paul's answer, we can be most grateful to him for pressing the question and making so very clear the possibilities and risks along the way." -- Francis X. Clooney, Professor of Divinity and Professor of Comparative Theology, Harvard Divinity School, Harvard UniversityTable of ContentsPreface: Am I Still a Christian? 1 Nirvana and God the Transcendent Other 2 Nirvana and God the Personal Other 3 Nirvana and God the Mysterious Other 4 Nirvana and Heaven 5 Jesus the Christ and Gautama the Buddha 6 Prayer and Meditation 7 Making Peace and Being Peace Conclusion: Promiscuity or Hybridity? Glossary Sources and Resources Index

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Book SynopsisThe texts of the Order of Mass newly illustrated in an attractive, modern and child-friendly style. Liturgical texts are interspersed with devotional texts and explanations of the various parts of the Mass which encourage conscious and active participation on the part of the child.The illustrations are carefully commissioned to reflect not only the events happening in the church during Mass but their theological and personal significance for the child.It will be an invaluable tool to help children engage with what is happening, encouraging them to pray and explaining the roots of the Order of Mass and the prayers it contains to them. (For First communion children aged 8 and above).A perfect First Communion gift. Beautifully modern and colourful illustrations. A great tool for teaching children what is happening at Mass and why it is happening.

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Book SynopsisAn insightful biblical and conversational response from Dr. Tony Evans and his four children---Chrystal Evans Hurst, Priscilla Shirer, Anthony Evans, and Jonathan Evans---on how God uses the hard things of this life to draw us into a deeper faith in Him.

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Book SynopsisThe internet is a tool box, not a toy box. Social media platforms are some of the tools we can use for building one another up. This is a guide on handing these tools, carefully. Social media is a tool that can be good. It can connect us with friends and family with an immediacy that previous generations could only wonder at. But it can also be used unwisely. Whether it’s harsh words, regrettable posts, or excessive scrolling, we should think about how God wants us to engage with social media. What does the Bible teach us? Jason Thacker’s helpful guide will help students explore the wisest ways to use social media.Trade ReviewStudents often ask, ‘where do I start?’ when attempting to comprehend and navigate the challenges of our digital age. A Student’s Guide to Social Media provides a solid launching point to understanding the difficulties of the digital age and how to faithfully navigate them while remaining rooted in the Christian faith. -- Katie Frugé (Director of Center for Cultural Engagement & The Christian Life Commission, Baptist General Convention of Texas)To use your tools well, it is crucial that you understand how they will attempt to shape your heart, mind, and soul. For that reason and many more I highly recommend reading A Student’s Guide to Social Media. -- Tim Challies (Author, ‘Seasons of Sorrow’)This is a short, important and a book that will help us all to reflect on our use of social media – or should that be social media’s use of us? -- David Robertson (Well–known pastor and apologist)We are always being discipled; either by culture or Christ. A danger of the world’s discipleship is that it often goes unnoticed. Track: Social Media wonderfully aids us in remaining sober–minded as we engage with social media to ensure that our use of technology conforms us to Christ, not culture. -- J. Garrett Kell (Pastor, Del Ray Baptist Church, Alexandria, Virginia)Jason Thacker is one of today’s foremost experts on ethics and technology. He’s also a godly family man whose love for Christ shines through in his writing. In this new addition to the RYM track series, Thacker helps youth grow in wisdom, giving them a clear framework for thinking theologically and acting ethically in their increasingly confusing online social world. -- Jared Kennedy (Editor, The Gospel Coalition)

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Book SynopsisIn Bible Prophecy: The Essentials, authors Amir Tsarfati and Barry Stagner pool their knowledge to teach on some of the most commonly asked questions about Revelation, the end times, and beyond.

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Book SynopsisWill you finish the race strong? Dr. David Jeremiah offers biblically based keys to keeping your faith steadfast when life hits you hard. Regardless of the circumstances, God will hold you up to help you face whatever comes your way. Every day, everyone in the world faces challenging moments and circumstances. Perhaps in your marriage. Your career. Your health. Your personal integrity. When times get tough, people often ask, “Why is this happening to me?” If you’re feeling vulnerable during a difficult time in your life, it is important to embrace your faith and the everlasting love of God. Paul says in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Keeping the faith, even for someone like Paul, meant not giving in to the world’s relentless influence. That’s what you must do as well.In Keep the Faith: How to Stand Strong in a World Turned Ups

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Book SynopsisTake your kids on an adventure through God’s Word with the #1 Bible for kids!The NKJV Adventure Bible® will get kids excited about reading the Scriptures! Kids will be captivated with the full-color features that make reading the Bible and memorizing their favorite verses engaging and fun. Along the way they will meet all types of people, see all sorts of places, and learn all kinds of things about the Bible. Most importantly, they will grow closer in their relationship with God.The Adventure Bible is recommended by more Christian schools and churches than any other Bible for kids, and the Adventure Bible brand has impacted more than 10 million individuals and families to date!Features include: Complete text of the New King James Version (NKJV) Full-color design throughout – makes learning about the people, places, and culture of the Bible even more engaging Life in Bib

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Book SynopsisQuirky and inviting essays on what it means to live joyfully in a world full of ''anger and anxiety''...This optimism booster has a light touch and a lasting impact.—Publishers WeeklyAn essential companion to Brant Hansen’s bestselling Unoffendable, this book is about one idea: a mindset of joy. In a modern culture filled with anxiety, depression, and societal clashes, it is not only possible to have a fulfilling, joyful life, but it’s promised to all who follow Jesus. Life is hard, but God is good. And through Him we can start to see the world in a more childlike, humble, and optimistic way.Brant Hansen doesn''t follow a success plan. He just keeps simply showing up and taking Jesus very seriously. And by taking Jesus seriously in all of life, he has become more joyful. More peaceful. And full of laughter. And that attitude is contagious to all who read his bestselling books and listen to his award-winning r

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive survey of Syriac Christianity from its origins in Hellenistic and ancient Near Eastern cultures to the presentTrade Review“In this extraordinarily learned and wide-ranging book, an entire lost world is brought into the light. The Syriac World reminds us of the vigor and diversity that made up the culture and religion of the Middle East from Late Antiquity until today.”—Peter Brown, author of Through the Eye of a Needle“This is a marvelous gem of a book. In one short volume, we are given three thousand years of history. Readers will learn an enormous amount about Syriac literature and the history of Middle Eastern Christianity. This book is a small classic.”—Jack Tannous, author of The Making of the Medieval Middle East“The authors have provided a wonderfully readable, and beautifully illustrated, guide to the various aspects of the Syriac world: the narrative is exceptionally well informed, and the attention paid to material culture is particularly welcome. This is a book that every self-respecting library ought to have.”—Sebastian Brock, author of An Introduction to Syriac Studies“The Syriac World is a fine piece of scholarship, and a truly valuable contribution to the literature on Christian history. The authors present a picture of the Syriac world that is at once authoritative and attractive to the non-specialist reader.”—Philip Jenkins, author of Crucible of Faith: The Ancient Revolution That Made Our Modern Religious World

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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, how Trade 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 SynopsisThis companion study guide covers all 9 chapters of Deeper, offering 10 reflection questions per chapter. By learning gospel truths, Christians will deepen their faith and grow in godliness.

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Book SynopsisIn this installment in the New Testament Theology series, trusted scholar Thomas Schreiner walks readers step-by-step through the book of Revelation, considering its themes, symbolic imagery, and historical context.

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Book SynopsisCombining biblical foundations with real-world application, Kauflin guides worship leaders and pastors to root their corporate worship in unchanging scriptural principles rather than divisive trends.

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Book SynopsisThe Middle Ages inherited from Antiquity a tradition of prophesy and gave it fresh and exuberant life. This tradition foretold a Millennium in which humanity would enjoy a new Paradise on earth, free of suffering and sin - a Kingdom of the Saints. Generation after generation was intermittently seized by a tense expectation of some sudden, miraculous event in which the world would be utterly transformed. Often these expectations became enmeshed with social unrest and movements arose which sent tremors through the massive structure of medieval society. Drawing on a huge variety of contemporary sources, this unique and compelling book tells the story of those Millenarian fanaticisms of the Middle Ages and points to their persistence in the modern world.Trade ReviewCompelling and original -- Bettany Hughes * The Times *Important, original... Haunting and significant * Times Literary Supplement *It is a piece of great originality and power... It deserves study and emulation -- Isaiah BerlinFull of rich, fascinating scholarship... What a field he covers -- Hugh Trevor-Roper

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Book SynopsisThe Psalms can be very helpful, but they can also be hard. Following on from The Way of the Righteous in the Muck of Life and Slogging Along the Paths of Righteousness, Dale Ralph Davis delves into Psalms 25 to 37. Using his own recognisable humour and razor–sharp observations these expositions help us to engage with the conflict in these twelve psalms.Trade ReviewIn this work of exposition, Davis again shows how unchanging God’s Word is, and how sufficient He is to meet us in whatever trial we face. Davis has a gift for bringing the word to bear in clear and crisp ways. This book does just that—and it’s another gift to God’s people from Dr. Davis. -- Courtney Reissig (Author of ‘Teach Me to Feel: Worshipping Through the Psalms in Every Season of Life’)The treasure of this book is the way Dr. Davis skillfully walks his readers through the ancient words and literary styles of these Psalms into a grander view of the covenant–keeping God and a fuller understanding of his care for His people. -- Emily Woodard (Director of Women’s Ministry, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina)This accessible but profound study of the Psalms has warmed my heart and made me thankful again for the greater gift of Christ our King. There is gold on every page and comfort in each chapter. Once again we are all in Dale Ralph Davis’ debt for his scholarship presented with humility and his ministry fulfilled so faithfully. -- David Gibson (Minister, Trinity Church, Aberdeen)Davis joins hands with the sacred songwriter in beckoning us to employ our grittiest grief, formidable fears, principle praises and staunchest certainties as we pour out our hearts into the bosom of God. … if you are trudging arduously before the oppressive presence of evil and darkness, you will find this book a true friend! -- Michael W. Philliber (Senior Pastor, Heritage Presbyterian Church (PCA), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)It is Ralph Davis at his best. Brilliant exposition punctuated by apt historical illustrations, pertinent quotations, home spun stories, personal honesty and delicious use of language. -- David Carmichael (Minister, Abbeygreen Church, Lesmahagow, Scotland)Ralph Davis loves baseball. Well, this exposition of Psalms 25–37 is not only a home run, but a grand slam home run. Christians love to read the Old Testament Psalms, but we often struggle to grasp the flow and meaning of the text. Ralph pulls back the veil and helps us to see the height, depth, length and breadth of the love of Yahweh for His people in all ages of the church. This exposition will provide fuel for the souls of those who read it. -- David Jussely (Adjunct Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi and Associate Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi)

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Book SynopsisIn this beautiful treasury of sacred wisdom, Mara Freeman shares the rich legacy of the Celts -- the festivals, gods and goddesses, saints, faeries, music, poetry, and storytelling that anchor this magical tradition. Discover myths, rituals, recipes, and crafts for every month of theyear. Honor Saint Brigit with a prayer in February, or ensure a merry start to May with a bowl of frothy syllabub. Come together with friends and neighbors to celebrate community in the high days of August, then learn to weave a solstice wreath in snowy December.Traditional blessings, ancient lore, and guided meditations inspire you to reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world, and view the sacred as an integral part of every day. Rediscover the wisdom and healing power of nature, and cultivate and honor your soul as you would the earth. Let the spirit of the ancient Celts enchant you in every season, year after year.

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Book SynopsisJohn Henry Newman, one of the towering figures of the early Victorian Church of England, caused shock and outrage in equal measure when he announced his espousal of Roman Catholicism in 1845. His Apologia, written nearly twenty years later in response to a scurrilous public attack by Charles Kingsley, is a superbly crafted response to those who criticized his actions and questioned his motives, and traces his spiritual development since boyhood, his close involvement in the high church Tractarian Movement and his agonizing decision to reject the church he had been born into. Ostensibly an autobiography and a speech for the defence, the Apologia transcends self-justification to explore the very nature of Christianity and its place in the modern age.Table of ContentsApologia Pro Vita Sua - John Henry Newman Edited with an Introduction by Ian KerAbbreviationsIntroductionSelect BibliographyChronologyAPOLOGIA PRO VITA SUAAppendicesEditor's Notes

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Book SynopsisEdward VI died a teenager in 1553, yet his brief reign would shape the future of the nation, unleashing a Protestant revolution that propelled England into the heart of the Reformation. This dramatic account takes a fresh look at one of the most significant and turbulent periods in English history. ''A challenging, elegant and persuasive biography of an unjustly neglected king'' Jerry Brotton, author of This Orient Isle''MacCulloch puts the young Edward at the centre of the action ... as this excellent and lively study shows, his ghost continues to haunt the history of Anglicanism'' Sunday Times ''This is Reformation history as it should be written, not least because it resembles its subject matter: learned, argumentative, and, even when mistaken, never dull'' Eamon Duffy, author of The Stripping of the Altars''One of the best historians writing in English today'' Sunday Telegraph

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Book SynopsisAs essential to the canon as the Bible and the plays of Shakespeare, The Book of Common Prayer has been in daily use for centuries. Originally produced for the Church of England in the sixteenth century by Thomas Cranmer, who was burned at the stake upon the accession to the throne of the ardently Catholic Queen Mary, it contains the entire liturgy as first presented in English-as well as some of the oldest phrases to be used by modern English speakers. H ere are daily prayers, scripture readings, psalm recitals, and the services marking such religious milestones as baptism, confirmation, and marriage, all from the 1662 edition, whose influence can be seen in the work of some of the greatest writers in English literature, from Donne and Swift to Austen and the Brontës. This beautiful deluxe edition includes a new introduction by The New Yorker''s book critic James Wood, discussing how The Book of Common Prayer has influenced the English language and liteTrade Review“One of the great, abiding works of English literature . . . The acute poetry, balanced sonorities, heavy order, and direct intimacy of its prose have achieved permanence, and many of its phrases and sentences are as famous as lines from Shakespeare or the King James Bible.” —James Wood, from the Introduction

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Book SynopsisFilled with discoveries, this is the dramatic story of Pope Pius XII''s struggle to respond to the Second World War, the Holocaust, and the Nazi domination of Europe.The Pope at War is the third in a trilogy of books about the papacy''s response to the rise of Fascism and Nazism. It tells the dramatic story of Pope Pius XII''s struggle to respond to the Second World War, the Holocaust, and the ongoing Nazi attempts to exterminate the Jews of Europe. It is the first book dealing with the war to make extensive use of the newly opened Vatican archives for the war years. It is based, as well, on thousands of documents from the Italian, German, French, British, and American archives. Among the many new discoveries brought to light is the discovery that within weeks of becoming pope in 1939, Pius XII entered into secret negotiations with Hitler through Hitler''s emissary, a Nazi Prince who was married to the daughter of the King of Italy and who was very close to Hitler. The negotiations werTrade ReviewMagnificent... Kertzer is a gifted writer ... He is also to be congratulated on avoiding polemic. It would have been easy, given the evidence, to have suffused the pages with moral outrage. But because he lays the facts bare and presents all sides of the argument, he lets readers come to their own conclusion. And that conclusion ought to be a devastating one ... What a tragedy, the reader might think after finishing this groundbreaking book, that the Pope did not "love" the Jews as much as he "loved" Germany. * Laurence Rees, Daily Telegraph *The Pope at War is the idea that it does not matter whether we are popes, prime ministers, or chancellors. Rather, our failings and shortcomings as individuals (of any station) can result in crimes whose magnitude boggles the mind; thus, even as we castigate the pontiff, we look inwards in ways at once discomfiting and necessary. * Giuliana Chamedes, Times Literary Supplement *An engrossing, often exciting and sometimes moving book. * Richard J. Evans, London Review of Books *The Pope at War shares with its two predecessors a dramatic sense of history. * Hilmar M. Pabel, The Tablet *Compelling * Elisabeth Braw, Engelsberg Ideas *...One of the best accounts of [Pius, the] wartime pontificate. Kertzer had already acquired a reputation as an elegant stylist with a commanding gift for explanation. That reputation will be further burnished by this tome. * Miles Pattenden, Australian Book Review *A book, which, to all intents and unequivocal purposes, is even more rightly pugilist in its undertaking, than those for whom power and the ducking and diving of the truth has become an elongated second nature of distorted discourse. * David Marx, David Marx Book Reviews *A thorough exploration of the Vatican archives for the pontificate of Pope Pius XII has long been awaited. David I. Kertzer's splendid book now provides it, presenting a plethora of highly unflattering evidence of the pope's role during the Second World War and his silence regarding the Holocaust. The book ends much of the debate about the pope and surely makes any lingering apologia for his stance implausible. * Ian Kershaw, author of Hitler: A Biography *A magisterial new study of how the Vatican navigated World War II and why Pope Pius XII stayed silent in the face of the mass murder of Jews. * Ruth Ben-Ghirt, Professor of History and Italian Studies, New York University *Disputes over the role of Pope Pius XII in World War II have been hopelessly mired either in sanctimony or hostility because of gaps in the historical record. David Kertzer's supremely well-informed analysis of the newly opened Vatican archives now establishes once and for all the massive scale of the pope's moral failure in the face of Europe's conflagration and Hitler's murder of six million Jews. If the faint-hearted pope was no war criminal, he was surely no saint. With Kertzer's magnum opus, the book on Pius XII is written, the dispute resolved, case closed. * James Carroll, author of Constantine's Sword *Not many expected the memory of Pope Pius XII's dealing with Jews during World War II to be sweetened by the recent opening of Vatican archives from that period. But who could have guessed how sordid the revelations would be? David I. Kertzer has the learning and courage to read the new documents and show what deep slime the Vatican was wading in during Pius XII's papacy. Brace yourself for a story full of horrors. * Garry Willis, author of Why I Am a Catholic *David I. Kertzer has outdone himself and crowned his extraordinary career with this volume on Pope Pius XII. He writes a simply riveting account with a worldwide cast of characters that includes Mussolini, Hitler, FDR, Churchill, and Eisenhower. This remarkably researched book is replete with revelations that deserve the adjective 'explosive' and with so much more. The book is a masterpiece. * Kevin Madigan, Winn Professor of Ecclesiastical History, Harvard University *Kertzerâ restricts himself for the most part to a sober, factual narrative, avoiding facile expressions of moral outrage. * Richard J. Evans, London Review of Books *Table of ContentsPrologue: The Twisted Cross PART ONE: WAR CLOUDS 1: Death of a Pope 2: The Conclave 3: Appealing to the Führer 4: The Peacemaker 5: 'Please do not talk to me about Jews' 6: The Nazi Prince 7: Saving Face 8: War Begins 9: The Prince Returns 10: A Papal Curse 11: Man of Steel 12: A Problematic Visitor PART TWO: ON THE PATH TO AXIS VICTORY 13: An Inopportune Time 14: An Honorable Death 15: A Short War 16: Surveillance 17: The Feckless Ally 18: The Greek Fiasco 19: A New World Order 20: Hitler to the Rescue 21: The Crusade 22: A New Prince 23: Best to Say Nothing PART THREE: CHANGING FORTUNES 24: Escaping Blame 25: Papal Premiere 26: Disaster Foretold 27: A Thorny Problem 28: An Awkward Request 29: The Good Nazi 30: Deposing the Duce 31: Musical Chairs 32: Betrayal PART FOUR: THE SKY TURNED BLACK 33: Fake News 34: The Pope's Jews 35: Baseless Rumours 36: Treason 37: A Gratifying Sight 38: Malevolent Reports 39: A Gruesome End Epilogue Final Thoughts: The Silence of the Pope

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Book SynopsisA Dictionary of the Bible is the most acclaimed, accessible, and up-to-date dictionary of its kind. Containing over 2,000 authoritative entries it provides clear and concise information about all of the important places, people, themes, and doctrines of the Bible. Terms range from earthquakes and mice to martyrs and art, and new to this edition are entries on Act of God, Old Testament and New Testament theology, Hanukkah, the Koran, mysticism, and many more. This dictionary features a detailed bibliography, biographies of Bible scholars, a conversion table of measures, weights, and values, a chronology of important dates in Biblical history, and historical maps (showing Israel in Canaan; the near east in the time of the Assyrian Empire; Palestine under the Herods; the background of the New Testament; Rome and the East). In addition, entries on the books of the Bible have been grouped in alphabetical order and conveniently located in a tinted centre section for quick reference. Recommended web links in the appendix provide valuable extra information, these links are accessed and kept up to date via the Dictionary of the Bible companion website.With lively and informative A-Z entries and an array of useful supplementary material, this dictionary is essential for students and teachers of theology and religious education, and it is an absorbing reference work for all readers of the Bible.Trade ReviewSnappy entries elucidate hazy Biblical events. * Christopher Hirst, The Independent *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; ABBREVIATIONS; DICTIONARY; THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE; APPENDICES

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Book SynopsisMark A. Noll presents a fresh and accessible history of Protestantism from the era of Martin Luther to the present day. Beginning with the founding of Lutheran, Reformed, Anglican, and Anabaptist churches in the sixteenth-century Reformation, he also considers the rise of other important Christian movements like Methodism and Pentecostalism. Focussing on worldwide developments, rather than just the familiar European and American histories, he considers the recent expansion of Protestant movements in Africa, China, India, and Latin America, emphasising the on-going and rapidly expanding story of Protestants worldwide. Noll examines the contributions from well-known figures including Martin Luther and John Calvin, along with many others, and explores why Protestant energies have flagged recently in the Western world yet expanded so dramatically elsewhere. Highlighting the key points of Protestant commonality including the message of Christian salvation, reliance on the Bible, and organizTable of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. Reformation beginnings ; 2. Protestant christendom ; 3. Pietists, the American colonies, evangelicals, and the Enlightenment ; 4. Flourishing, flailing, fragmenting ; 5. Missionary transformations ; 6. Pentecostals, revival, independents ; 7. Whither the West? ; 8. From everywhere to everywhere ; Glossary ; Further reading ; Index

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