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Book SynopsisHe’s here to train her horses, and then he’s moving on. She’s keeping her true identity a secret. But their spark complicates both of their plans.When her mother’s death leaves Charlotte Simpson bereft, she hopes the Robinson clan will accept her as one of their own and help fill the void. But a startling discovery dashes her hopes and leaves her wondering if she will ever know the father she’s always longed for.Horse trainer Gunner Dawson has experienced profound loss and intends to avoid it. So he lives on the move without forming close bonds or putting down roots. When Charlotte hires him to work with her horses and help expand her ranch, he commits to staying for a few months. But he doesn’t count on getting caught up in Charlotte’s search for her biological father. Or on falling in love—with Riverbend Gap or with Charlotte. This time, he’s not sure if he’ll be able to move on—or if

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Book SynopsisAn allegory of the nine spices mentioned in Song of Solomon compared with the nine fruits of the Spirit.

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Book SynopsisThere's nothing that sets our minds and hearts at ease like the promises of God. In the best-selling God's Promises line--over 15 million sold--God's Promises for Your Every Need offers comfort and hope found only in God's Word. No matter what your situation, God has a promise for you!

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Book SynopsisAn exposition of Matthew 5 - 7.

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Book SynopsisPastoral theology is theology seen from the shepherding perspective. Relating to every aspect of church life - from leading congregations to counselling individuals - it calls for pastors with a good grasp of Christian doctrine and a range of skills.

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Book Synopsis60 four-page chapters which express the heart and challenge of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and DeuteronomyTable of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 11Introduction: God Wants to Be Seen Through His People 13 EXODUS 1–18: GOD THE SAVIOURGod’s Prison Break (1:1–2:10) 19Waiting is Not Wasting (2:11–25) 23Seeing and Believing (3:1–4:28) 27YHWH (3:13–15) 31God is Not Like Pharaoh (5:1–7:7) 35Hardened (7:3–5) 39Ten–Nil (7:8–12:51) 43The Next Best Thing to Winning (10:7–11, 24–26) 47Lesson One: Passover (11:1–13:16) 51Lesson Two: Handbrake (13:17–15:21) 56Lesson Three: Wood (15:22–27) 60Lesson Four: Food and Drink (16:1–17:7) 64Lesson Five: Sabbath (16:21–30) 68Lesson Six: Hands Up (17:8–16) 72The Management Consultant from Midian (18:1–27) 76 EXODUS 19–40: GOD THE INDWELLERGod’s Postcode (19:1–40:38) 83The Ten Commandments (20:1–17) 87The Law of Sinai (21:1–23:33) 91How to Experience God (24:1–18) 95The Tabernacle (25:1–31:18 & 35:1–39:43) 99The Men Who Came Close (28:1–30:38) 103God is Not a Statue (32:1–35) 107Answer Back (32:11–14 & 33:12–17) 111Surprise, Surprise, Surprise (33:18–34:14) 116Moving Day (40:1–38) 120LEVITICUS: GOD THE HOLY ONEThere Will Be Blood (1:1–7:38) 127Burnt Up on Entry (8:1–10:20) 132The Boundary Breaker (11:1–15:33 & 18:1–20:27) 136Two Goats (16:1–17:16) 140Yahweh M’Qaddesh (21:1–22:33) 144Mementoes (23:1–44) 148The Name (24:10–23) 152Jubilee (25:1–55) 156Plan “A” and Plan “B” (26:1–27:34) 160 NUMBERS: GOD THE FAITHFUL ONE11 × 1,250 (1:1–10:36) 167Cloud Chasers (9:15–23) 171Food, Force and Fame (11:1–12:16) 175Blind Unbelief (13:1–14:45) 180Run into the Flames (14:11–38) 184Authority (16:1–19:22) 188Moses’ Moment of Madness (20:1–13) 192Snakebite (21:4–9) 196Genocide (20:14–21:35) 200Permissive (22:1–25:18) 204Four Blessings (23:1–24:25) 208The Next Generation (26:1–36:13) 212Don’t Cash Out Too Early (32:1–42) 216 DEUTERONOMY: GOD THE COVENANT KEEPERCovenant Part One: The Preamble (1:1–5) 223Covenant Part Two: The Past (1:6–4:43) 227Covenant Part Three: The Provisions (4:44–26:19) 231First Love Language: Trust (8:1–20) 235Second Love Language: Obedience (10:12–22) 239Third Love Language: Family Life (11:1–21) 243Fourth Love Language: Generosity (14:22–15:11) 248Fifth Love Language: Justice and Mercy (16:18–20) 252Better than Moses (18:14–22) 257Covenant Part Four: Promises and Penalties(27:1–30:20) 261Covenant Part Five: Posterity (31:1–34:12) 265Conclusion: God Wants to Be Seen Through His People 269

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Book Synopsis60 readings from the gospel of John, which introduces some of the most important themes of the New TestamentTable of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 11Introduction: Look and See the Living God 13 PART ONE: LOOK AT JESUS ALONEFirst Word (1:1–18) 18Good Man Isn’t God-Man (1:19–34) 22What Jacob Saw (1:35–51) 27Nations Have Eyes Too (1:49, 51) 31Signs (2:1–11) 35God in a Box (2:12–25) 40The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (3:1–8) 44Faith Has Feet (3:9–21) 48Above and Below (3:22–36) 52God Keeps on Digging (4:1–30) 56God’s Goal-Hangers (4:31–42) 60Galilee Is Not Judea (4:43–54) 64 PART TWO: LOOK AT WHO JESUS REALLY ISI Am (5:1–12:50) 70It’s Time for a Showdown (5:1–15) 74Stop, Look, Listen (5:16–20) 79Courtroom Drama (5:21–47) 83God’s Calculator (6:1–21) 87You Are What You Eat (6:22–59) 91Please Be Offended (6:60–71) 95You Don’t Vote for a King (7:1–52) 99How Faith Happens (7:17) 103Rocks, Sticks and Rivers (7:37–39) 107The Victim (8:1–11) 111Step Out of the Cave (8:12–36) 115John Was Jewish (8:37–59) 119What a Blind Man Saw (9:1–41) 123David, Only More So (10:1–30) 127Blinder than a Pharisee (10:31–42) 131Why God Doesn’t Answer Prayer (11:1–15) 135Why God Doesn’t Heal (11:16–44) 140This Man Must Die (11:45–12:19) 145Seeds, Snakes and Sunlight (12:20–36) 150Choose the Right Cup (12:37–50) 154 PART THREE: LOOK AT WHAT JESUS HAS GIVEN YOUA Briefcase from Q (13:1–17:26) 160Item One: Humility (13:1–16) 164Item Two: Loving Obedience (13:17–38) 168Item Three: The Holy Spirit (14:1–31) 173House Swap (14:1–4, 22–24) 177Item Four: The Gospel (14:6) 181Item Five: Miracles (14:11–12) 185Item Six: Prayer (14:13–14) 189Item Seven: Partnership (15:1–17) 193Item Eight: Courage under Fire (15:18–16:4) 197Riding Fourth Together (15:26–27) 201Thank God Jesus Has Gone Away (16:4–33) 205The Real Lord’s Prayer (17:1–26) 209Item Nine: Body Armour (17:11–12) 213Jesus’ Big Request (17:15–19) 217Item Ten: Unity (17:20–26) 221 PART FOUR: LOOK AT JESUS AND WINMan on Trial (18:1–19:16) 226Coronation Day (19:1–24) 231Satan’s Worst and God’s Best (19:25–42) 235Risen (20:1–18) 240Therefore Look Up (20:19–23) 245Therefore Believe (20:24–31) 249Therefore Expect Success (21:1–14) 253Therefore Love the Church (21:15–17) 258Therefore Expect Setbacks (21:15–25) 263Conclusion: Look and See the Living God 267

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Book SynopsisA candid, compassionate look at the challenges and freedoms of the single life. How do we live a life sold-out for God, as single Christian people?Trade Review“A delightful book. Perceptive, open, and startlingly honest.” -- Elaine Storkey“Reading this book felt like sitting by the fire and having an honest chat about personal issues with a friend.” -- Ian and Nadine Parkinson “With great honesty, clarity and insight Kate looks at this vital issue for the Church in a powerful way!” -- Gavin Calver“Kate Wharton is the real deal!” -- Andy Hawthorne OBE“You will not be able to deny the honesty, humour, and humanity of this book.” -- The Right Reverend James Jones“Honest, funny and positive… a great deal of wisdom for both single and married people.” -- Graham TomlinKate knows what she is talking about, and she imbues this, her first book, with that insight borne out of experience and practice. With a growing number of singles in our churches, we all, married or not, need to understand each other better so that we can minister God’s grace to each. We want to commend this book to both single and married, all will be better equipped by its insights. It will become a classic; buy your copy before it’s sold out! -- John & Anne Coles, Leaders of New Wine, in their Foreword“A celebration of the single state.” * Methodist Recorder *“Fabulously down to earth, honest, fun, biblical and enjoyable to read. What more could you want from a book. Single Minded is a timely piece of writing addressing issues that face singles in our world and church today. But not just for singles; it is an uplifting book whatever your marital status.” * New Wine Magazine *`Kate Wharton is a vicar from Liverpool who, by her own admission, has never had a boyfriend. In her courageous, cliché-free and highly personal book, she addresses with humour and candour both the pluses and minuses of the single life. [...] This is an excellent book.’ -- Jeremy Moody * Christianity *Table of ContentsContentsAcknowledgments 9Foreword 13Introduction 151 Wholly single 212 Living a God-obsessed life in a marriage-obsessed church 493 Purely single 774 Living a God-obsessed life in a sex-obsessed world 975 Single again 1256 Living together 1477 Happily ever after… 171Recommended reading 189Notes 190

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Book Synopsis60 four-page chapters taken from Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and PhilemonTrade Review“Fresh. Solid. Simple. Really good stuff.” -- R. T. Kendall“Most commentaries are dull. These are alive. Most commentaries are for scholars. These are for you!” -- Canon Michael Green“Phil Moore has served us magnificently. We so need to get into the Scriptures and let the Scriptures get into us.” -- Terry Virgo“If you want to grow in your understanding of each book of the Bible, then buy these books and let them change your life!” -- PJ Smyth, GodFirst Church, Johannesburg, South Africa“These are substantial yet succinct and bristle with amazing insights and life applications. A scintillating guide.” -- Greg Haslam, Westminster Chapel, London, UK“Phil Moore presents Scripture in a dynamic, accessible and relevant way.” -- Dr David Landrum, The Bible Society

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Book SynopsisA vital new resource for youth leaders, providing games and icebreakers that blend energy, fun, and thought-provoking themes.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction 7Ice-Breakers 13Get Set, Go! 31Challenges 55Big and Memorable 83Bible Games 111Energizers 126Messy Games 141Tech Games 153Team Games 168Small Group Games 205Seasonal Games 221Quick-Fire Games 236Index of Themes 253

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Book SynopsisIf you are gay, but celibate, how do you find a way to express your identity as a believer without being defined by your sexual orientation?Trade ReviewJeanette Howard has laboured in ministry dealing with sexuality for decades, and is well qualified to speak to the current issues and ministry challenges involved. To read “Dwelling in the Land” is to soak in reasoned, clear, biblically based principles, lessons learned from a woman who’s been there, done that, and is doing it well. -- Joe DallasTable of ContentsContentsAcknowledgments 9Introduction 10SECTION 1Where have we been? Where are we now? And what is happening in Christendom?1 Post Exodus 142 Sexual Fluidity, Identity, and GenerationalDifferences 343 Different Voices, Different Hymn Sheets 54SECTION 2What do we actually believe? How does our thinking influence our Christian walk? Are our expectations in keeping with biblical teaching, or have we allowed worldly reasoning too much influence?4 Prisoners of Hope 765 Who are You? 976 Expectations, Wants, and Needs 111SECTION 3Through the testimonies of Phil and Sonia we see that God gradually modifies our focus from self to Him. Submission and thanksgiving are key components in the life of a disciple and are critical if our same-sex attraction is to come under the Lordship of Christ.7 Questions, Questions, Questions 1268 Submission 1419 Thanksgiving is a Weapon of Warfare 160SECTION 4How we view God and understand His sovereignty will determine our readiness to obey, irrespective of how we feel. Our attitude towards Him determines the potential depth of our relationship with Him.10 Privileged People 17611 She Did What She Could 19212 The Danger of Distraction 207SECTION 5The “land” we have been allocated may not be what we had hoped for, but it is still our inheritance. If it is flat and fertile, then we plant crops. And if it is rugged and hilly, we shepherd sheep. It is what we make it.13 Perseverance is a Sign of Maturity 22414 Scarred but Steadfast 24415 At Peace in the Land of Promise 263Bibliography 284Useful Contacts 286About Bethany Life Ministries 288

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Book SynopsisHow to redirect the culture of your church outwards, and get over the barriers that hold so many churches back.Table of ContentsContentsAcknowledgments 8Foreword 9Preface 11Introduction 13Chapter1 What’s Wrong? 192 Twelve Reasons for Not Inviting 283 Facing the Fear 464 Responding to Rejection 725 Addressing the Problem 916 Best Practice 1267 The Ultimate Inviter 147Appendix 154Notes 156

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Book SynopsisSixty inspirational four-page readings from Mark's Gospel.Trade Review“Fresh. Solid. Simple. Really good stuff.” -- R. T. Kendall"I enjoy reading Phil Moore's books. He writes about Jesus and the Christian life with perception, wisdom and wit." -- Nicky Gumbel“Most commentaries are dull. These are alive. Most commentaries are for scholars. These are for you!” -- Canon Michael Green“In taking us straight to the heart of the text, Phil Moore has served us magnificently. We so need to get into the Scriptures and let the Scriptures get into us. The fact that Phil writes so relevantly and with such submission to Biblical revelation means that we are genuinely helped to be shaped by the Bible’s teaching.” -- Terry Virgo“These notes are amazingly good. Lots of content and depth of research, yet packed in a Big Breakfast that leaves the reader well fed and full. Bible notes often say too little, yet larger commentaries can be dull – missing the wood for the trees. Phil’s insights are striking, original, and fresh, going straight to the heart of the text and the reader! Substantial yet succinct, they bristle with amazing insights and life applications, compelling us to read more. Bible reading will become enriched and informed with such a scintillating guide. Teachers and preachers will find nuggets of pure gold here!” -- Greg Haslam – Westminster Chapel, London, UKTable of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 9Introduction: Step into the Story 11 PART ONE: THE MESSIAH’S STORYJourney’s End (1:1–8) 16A Single Step (1:9–20) 20Man of Woman Born (1:21–39) 24Where’s the Line? (1:40–45) 28Friends, Romans, Countrymen (2:1–12) 32Runaway (2:13–17) 37Black Cabs and Bales of Hay (2:18–3:6) 41Quick Step (3:7–13) 45School of Rock (3:14–19) 49Mad, Bad, God (3:20–35) 53How to Grow as a Believer (4:1–20) 58How to Spread the Gospel (4:21–34) 62The Perfect Storm (4:35–41) 66Too Strong (5:1–20) 70Twelve Add Twelve (5:21–43) 74Compartments (5:21–43) 79When Jesus Couldn’t Heal (6:1–6) 83What to Expect When You’re Expecting (6:6–29) 87Send Them Away (6:30–44) 91Refuel (6:45–56) 95Goodbye, Galilee (7:1–23) 99 PART TWO: THE WORLD’S STORYBreadcrumbs (7:24–30) 104Spit on a Foreigner (7:31–37) 108Déjà Vu (8:1–10) 112Bad Bread (8:11–21) 116Yeast Extraction (8:22–26) 120Mystery Story (8:27–30) 124Speaking for Satan (8:31–38) 128The Holy Mountain (9:1–13) 133Why Doesn’t God Heal? (9:14–29) 138How to Pray for Healing (9:28–29) 142 PART THREE: THE COSTLY STORYRoad Trip (9:30–50) 148What Costs More (9:42–50) 152Invisible Gods (10:1–16) 156Respectable Idols (10:13–27) 161Back to Front Story (10:28–45) 165Throw It All Away (10:46–52) 169 PART FOUR: THE SURPRISING STORYA Different Type of King (11:1–11) 174On God’s Team (11:11–23) 178More Than Words (11:20–26) 182Eviction Notice (11:27–12:12) 186Revolution (12:13–17) 191Dead Poets (12:18–37) 195Cinderella at the Ball (12:38–44) 200The Surprise of All History (13:1–37) 204Christians Die (13:9–13) 209Riches to Rags (14:1–11) 214There Will Be Blood (14:12–31) 218The Cup (14:32–42) 222Show Trial (14:43–65) 226God Accepts Rejects (14:51–52, 66–72) 230Rome on Trial (15:1–20) 234The End of the Road (15:21–37) 238Surprising Cry (15:34) 242Surprising Response (15:38–47) 246 PART FIVE: THE UNFINISHED STORYIt’s Your Move (16:1–8) 252Write This (16:9–20) 256Go Out (16:9–20) 261Conclusion: Step into the Story 265

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Book SynopsisSixty inspirational four-page readings from Hebrews and JamesTrade Review“Fresh. Solid. Simple. Really good stuff.” -- R. T. Kendall“Most commentaries are dull. These are alive. Most commentaries are for scholars. These are for you!” -- Canon Michael Green"I enjoy reading Phil Moore's books. He writes about Jesus and the Christian life with perception, widsom and wit." -- Nicky GumbelTable of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 9Introduction: Something Far Better Has Come 11 PART ONE – JAMES: A BETTER WAY OF LIVINGSynagogue Sermons (1:1) 16Better than Solomon (1:2–11) 21Soap-on-a-Rope (1:12–18) 26Words of Life and Death (1:18–27) 30Uncorrupted Religion (1:27) 34Brothers and Sisters (2:1–7) 38Law-Breakers (2:8–13) 43Faith Which Works (2:14–26) 47Mightier than the Sword (3:1–12) 52Angels and Demons (3:13–4:3) 57How to Make God Your Enemy (4:4–17) 62Prime the Pump (4:7–10) 67Rich Pickings (4:13–5:6) 71Oblias (5:7–11) 75Everyday Church (5:12–16) 79Camel Knees (5:16–20) 84 PART TWO – HEBREWS 1–7: A BETTER GLIMPSE OF GODTwenty Years Later (1:1) 90Better than Angels (1:1–14) 94What Jesus Hates (1:9) 99Warning Sirens (2:1–4) 103Down and Up (2:5–18) 108In Our Shoes (2:5–18) 112Better than Moses (3:1–6) 116Don’t Miss the Point (3:7–19) 120God’s Detonator (4:1–2) 125Take a Rest (4:1–13) 129The Ultimate Hero (4:8) 133A Threat and a Promise (4:12–13) 137Wartime Letter (4:14–5:10) 142The Temptation of Christ (4:15) 146Why Doesn’t God Always Heal? (5:7) 150Third Warning (5:11–6:12) 154Basic Christianity (6:1–2) 158Justice (6:10) 162The Patience of a Saint (6:11–20) 166The Priest Who Was King (7:1–28) 170What Is Jesus Doing Now? (7:25) 174 PART THREE – HEBREWS 8–10: A BETTER WAY TO KNOW GODAll Change (8:1–13) 180No More Camping (9:1–12) 184Men Who Stare at Goats (9:13–28) 188There Will Be Blood (9:22) 192The Final Taboo (9:26–28) 196Blood Donor (10:1–18) 200Real Worship (10:19–25) 204Blood Diamond (10:26–39) 208 PART FOUR – HEBREWS 11–13: BETTER REASONS TO BELIEVEBetter Reasons to Believe (11:1–3) 214Before the Flood (11:4–7) 218Faith Without a Home (11:8–22) 222None Received (11:23–40) 226Keep on Running (12:1–13) 230Final Warning (12:14–29) 234Tragic Figure (12:15–17) 238Zion Has Not Fallen (12:22–24) 242Preaching Class (12:26–29) 246Inside-Out Love (13:1–3) 250Pure Sex (13:4) 254The Golden Idol (13:5–6) 258Jesus Hasn’t Changed (13:7–25) 262Conclusion: Something Far Better Has Come 267

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Book SynopsisHow to lead static or declining churches back into growth and new life.Trade Review'A wonderful manifesto for change that oozes deep thinking, biblical content & practical advice from each page. Every church leader in the UK should read this book now!' -- Gavin Calver, Director of Mission, Evangelical AllianceIan is someone I have respected and admired for a number of years. His track record as a church leader speaks for itself. He has been a friend, coach and mentor to me and many other young leaders and we have all benefited greatly from his wisdom and experience. Now that wisdom and experience is available to everyone who reads this book. There are insights and strategies here which will interest, inspire and equip you, whatever your leadership role. Ian’s humour, wisdom and passion come through on every page. Make sure you read this book if you are in any way involved with leadership in your church – you’ll be glad you did! -- Kate Wharton, author of Single Minded and Vicar of St George’s Everton“Ian Parkinson has vast experience of church leadership and growth within the UK and globally. He knows what he is talking about. This book distils a great deal of valuable wisdom on working in tune with the Spirit to bring about the renewal and revitalisation of the church.” -- Revd Dr Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College“Ian writes with both passion and understanding. He is passionate about seeing the church of today being like the first church – empowered and fruitful in mission, welcoming and compassionate in its pastoral work, and relevant and transformative in everything. He also writes with the wisdom gained both from his wide reading and from his hands-on local church leadership; he has practised what he preaches. This book is an invaluable toolbox for leaders willing to navigate the turbulent waters of change for the sake of seeing disciples being formed and the church growing.” -- John and Anne Coles, New Wine“Many church leaders struggle with turning a church round. This book is a great guide for the process. Clear, full of practical wisdom and theological insight, it takes the reader through re-engineering a church stage-by-stage and encourages those on the journey to keep going.” -- James Lawrence, Leadership Principal, CPAS"This is a book of real substance written by someone of vision, wisdom, and experience." -- The Church TimesTable of ContentsContentsForeword 9Acknowledgments 11Introduction 131. Recovering Our Identity: The Church That GodHas In Mind 23Suggested Itinerary For Church Leaders Awayday 402. Moving Things Forward: Leadership As A CatalystFor Change 433. Imagining The Future: Articulating Vision ThatStirs The Heart 67Useful Vision-Casting Exercises 94Values Brainstorm 954. Holding On Tight: Leading Through Transitions 965. Hosting God’s Presence: Allowing The SpiritFreedom To Move 1146. Increasing Capacity: Growing And DevelopingLeaders 1357. Organizing For Growth: Developing FunctionalStructures 158Sample Worship Questionnaire 1848. Staying The Course: Leadership For The LongHaul 188Questions For Group Study 217Notes 229

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Book SynopsisTom Hamblin has smuggled tens of thousands of Bibles into the Arab peninsula, finding a clandestine network of believers. This is his story.Table of ContentsCONTENTSForeword 10Introduction 121. Welcome to Arabia 152. A Rough Start in Reading 273. Commissioned and Re-Commissioned 394. Into the Unknown 605. The Entrance of Your Word 786. Following God’s GPS 1057. Yemen: Christ at Work in the Cradle of Islam 1208. Yemen: Starting Over 1339. Yemen: Divine Appointments 15710. Saudi Arabia: Islam’s Ground Zero 17011. Through Gates of Brass 17812. Of Camels and Calamities 18913. Diamonds in the Darkness 20314. Britain and Beyond 214Recommended Books and Other Resources 232

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Book SynopsisThis remarkable tale from missionary Chrissie Chapman shows God's protection and power when it is needed most.Table of ContentsContentsForeword 9Acknowledgments 11Why I Wrote this Book 13Burundi 15Chapter1 The Sound of Silence 182 The Night the Angels Came 363 The First War Baby Arrives 424 How I Found God in the Middle of This Mess 595 CRIB (Children Rescued in Burundi) 776 Miracle After Miracle 987 A Bad Week 1078 Empty the Storehouse 1219 The King’s School 13910 The Next Generation 156Epilogue 181About the Author 185

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Book SynopsisSixty inspirational four-page readings from Luke's Gospel.Table of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 9Introduction: All of This Happened for You 11 ACT One: HE CAME FOR YOUFrom Where I’m Standing (1:1–25) 16The Impossible (1:26–38) 21The Lowest of the Low (1:39–45) 25Every Single One (1:46–80) 29Good News (2:1–20) 33Right Under Our Noses (2:21–40) 37Lessons from a Twelve-Year-Old (2:41–50) 41Mind the Gap (2:51–52) 45Spot the Difference (3:1–38) 49I’ll Have What He’s Having (3:15–4:19) 53929 Chapters (4:14–44) 58What Are You Doing Here? (4:41–44) 62Partners (5:1–11) 66Power Supply (5:12–32) 70Second Half (5:33–6:16) 74Character Witness (6:17–49) 78What Do You Expect? (7:1–50) 82Recap: Good News (8:1–21) 87Recap: Authority and Power (8:22–39) 91Recap: Faith (8:40–56) 95 ACT Two: HE CAN USE YOUIt’s Your Turn (9:1–17) 100How to Share the Gospel (9:18–26) 104How to Heal People (9:27–43) 108How to Follow Jesus (9:43–62) 112Back to School (10:1–24) 117Lesson One: Love (10:25–37) 122Lesson Two: Prayer (10:38–11:13) 127Lesson Three: Scripture (11:14–36) 131Lesson Four: Courage (11:37–12:12) 135Lesson Five: Money (12:13–48) 140Lesson Six: Eyesight (12:49–13:21) 144Lesson Seven: Language (13:17–21) 149Lesson Eight: Humility (13:22–14:24) 153Graduation Day (14:25–35) 158Reckless Love (15:1–32) 163The Joy Luck Club (16:1–31) 168Hellfire (16:19–31) 172Swoosh (17:1–19) 176Now and Not Yet (17:20–18:8) 180Mr. Topsy-Turvy (18:9–34) 184God at Work (18:35–19:10) 188Whole Again (19:10) 192The Long Wait (19:11–27) 196 ACT Three: HE MADE A WAY FOR YOUMake Way (19:28–48) 202The Way of the Jews (20:1–47) 206The Way of Rome (20:20–26) 210Get Out of the Way (21:1–4) 214The Big Wait (21:5–38) 218Snakes and Ladders (22:1–38) 222Parallel Lives (22:39–53) 227Innocent (22:54–23:25) 231Three Men in a Boat (22:54–23:25) 236Read Between the Lines (23:26–46) 240The Way Back (23:26–56) 245Trust Me, I’m a Doctor (24:1–12) 249The Main Event (24:13–35) 254No Fear (24:36–49) 259Starting Pistol (24:48–53) 263Conclusion: All of This Happened for You 267

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Book SynopsisAn accessible introduction to Christology; the person,nature, and role of Christ in our lives.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: One Life 7Part 1: He Became Flesh 13He Became Flesh 14Julia’s Story 22Too Good to Be True? 26Part 2: He Lived Among Us 31He Lived Among Us 32Dan’s Story 39Too Good to Be True? 43Part 3: He Died a Violent Death 49He Died a Violent Death 50Akhtar’s Story 57Too Good to Be True? 62Part 4: He Rose from the Dead 67He Rose from the Dead 68Malcolm’s Story 75Too Good to Be True? 79Part 5: He Sat Down in Heaven 85He Sat Down in Heaven 86Adrian’s Story 94Too Good to Be True? 99Part 6: He Is Coming Back 105He Is Coming Back 106Yvonne’s Story 114Too Good to Be True? 118Conclusion: One Life 124

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Book SynopsisSixty inspirational four-page readings from the twelve minor prophets from the Old Testament.Table of ContentsCONTENTSAbout the Straight to the Heart Series 9Introduction: Blessing or Curse – You Decide 11 PART ONE: ISRAELSucker Punch (Amos 1:1–2:16) 16The Right Lines (Amos 2:4–16) 20Three Good Reasons (Amos 3:1–5:17) 24Three Curses (Amos 5:18–6:14) 28The Kind of Person God Can Use (Amos 7:1–17) 32Darkest Before the Dawn (Amos 8:1–9:10) 36The Rebuild (Amos 9:11–15) 40Crazy Love (Hosea 1:1–11) 44The Big “A” (Hosea 2:1–3:5) 48The Divorce Court (Hosea 4:1–5:15) 52Real Repentance (Hosea 6:1–7:16) 56True Knowledge (Hosea 8:1–9:17) 60Soft Ground Drinks Rain (Hosea 10:1–15) 65A Whole Lot of History (Hosea 11:1–11) 70The Day Comes (Hosea 11:12–13:16) 74The Return (Hosea 14:1–9) 78 PART TWO: ASSYRIAThe Man Who Said “No” (Jonah 1:1–3) 84Three Sides to a Story (Jonah 1:4–17) 88What’s That Smell? (Jonah 2:1–10) 93Word Power (Jonah 3:1–10) 97The Lives of Others (Jonah 4:1–11) 102Watch and See (Nahum 1:1–15) 106The Impossible (Nahum 2:1–13) 110Casualty (Nahum 3:1–19) 114 PART THREE: JUDAHSin Spreads (Micah 1:1–16) 120Head Down (Micah 2:1–3:12) 124The New Jerusalem (Micah 4:1–5) 128King David II (Micah 4:6–5:15) 132Courtroom Drama (Micah 6:1–7:7) 136Back to Plan “A” (Micah 7:8–20) 140Insect Army (Joel 1:1–20) 144Human Army (Joel 2:1–27) 149Spirit-Filled Army (Joel 2:18–32) 153The Last Battle (Joel 3:1–21) 157What Lies Beneath (Zephaniah 1:1–6) 161Before the Day (Zephaniah 1:7–2:3) 165When the Sea Gets In (Zephaniah 2:4–3:8) 169The Remains of the Day (Zephaniah 3:9–20) 174Let’s Get Personal (Habakkuk 1:1–11) 178Mystery (Habakkuk 1:12–2:3) 182Faith and Force (Habakkuk 2:4–20) 186Music Lesson (Habakkuk 3:1–19) 191The Final Word (Obadiah 1–21) 195 PART FOUR: A BETTER ISRAELUnderdog Story (Haggai 1:1–15) 200The Greatest Temple (Haggai 2:1–9) 204King Zerubbabel (Haggai 2:10–23) 208The Future for Jerusalem (Zechariah 1:1–2:13) 212Whiter than White (Zechariah 3:1–10) 217Power Supply (Zechariah 4:1–14) 221Homeland (Zechariah 5:1–6:8) 225Priest and King (Zechariah 6:9–15) 229Shortcut to Revival (Zechariah 7:1–8:23) 233Building Instructions (Zechariah 9:1–11:17) 238The Future for Israel (Zechariah 12:1–14:21) 243Yeah, Right (Malachi 1:1–2:9) 248What About You? (Malachi 2:10–3:5) 253The Test (Malachi 3:6–12) 257When God is Silent (Malachi 3:13–4:6) 261Conclusion: Blessing or Curse – You Decide 265

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Book SynopsisA beautifully presented paperback featuring the stories and messages of 40 of Pam's favourite hymns.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction 7All Creatures of Our God and King 10All Glory, Laud and Honour 14All My Hope on God is Founded 17Angel Voices, Ever Singing 21As with Gladness Men of Old 25Be Thou My Guardian and My Guide 28Breathe on Me, Breath of God 32Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing 35Come, Ye Thankful People, Come 39Day by Day 43Father, Lead Me Day by Day 47Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go 50Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah 53Hail to the Lord’s Anointed 56Hark! The Herald Angels Sing 60Holy, Holy, Holy 64I Need Thee Every Hour 68I Stand Amazed in the Presence 72If Any Little Word of Mine 75In Full and Glad Surrender 79Jesu, Lover of My Soul 82Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho 86Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee 90Lead Us, Heavenly Father, Lead Us 94Little Drops of Water 98My Hope is Built on Nothing Less 102My Jesus, I Love Thee 106New Every Morning is the Love 109Now the Day is Over 113O Jesus, I Have Promised 117O Little Town of Bethlehem 121O Worship the King 125Rock of Ages 129Shall We Gather at the River? 132Teach Me, My God and King 136The Battle Hymn of the Republic 139The God of Abraham Praise 143Through All the Changing Scenes of Life 146We Plough the Fields, and Scatter 150Ye Holy Angels Bright 154

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsContentsIntroduction 6Chapter 1 Spirituality 9Chapter 2 Psychological theories of childhood: intellectual development 20Chapter 3 Personality development 33Chapter 4 Spiritual styles 47Chapter 5 Social development 59Chapter 6 Faith and how it grows 75Chapter 7 The story so far 94Chapter 8 Godly Play 106Chapter 9 Play 122Chapter 10 Children thinking about God 136Chapter 11 Home, school, and church: how do we work together for the benefit of the child? 154Chapter 12 The way forward: growing faith 165Chapter 13 A sharing of good practice 179Appendix 1 Time, space, story, ritual: a year of Godly Play 193Appendix 2 Creative Christmas 207Notes 210Bibliography 218Index 220

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Book SynopsisLooking at the role of women in the church from a cultural and personal perspective.Table of ContentsCONTENTSForeword by Malcolm Duncan 8Chapter 1 Lessons from History 13Chapter 2 Different Viewpoints 35Chapter 3 Leadership is Not One-Style-Fits-All 63Chapter 4 Paternalism 81Chapter 5 Transformational Leadership 103Chapter 6 Servant-Hearted Leadership 114Chapter 7 Emotional Intelligence 127Chapter 8 Leadership Models 140Chapter 9 Reflection 155Chapter 10 Rhythm – Work-Life Balance 169Afterword 182Endnotes 186

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Book SynopsisFill the Gap! contains 120 easy-to-play Bible-based games with little or no preparation needed - perfect for picking straight off the shelf! The ideas are designed to help local churches fill up those awkward gaps of time in Sunday schools, midweek clubs, holiday clubs, after school clubs and children''s camps. The games are divided equally across the Old Testament and the New Testament and offer a fun-filled way to reinforce a teaching point or help children unfamiliar with Bible stories. There are two games for each story, one aimed at 4-7s and the other at 7-11s, but many of the games can be modified slightly to make them appropriate for older or younger children to take part. Most of the games are suitable for both smaller and larger groups of children and many can be easily adapted to fit different Bible stories, allowing favourite games to be used again with a different emphasis.

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Book SynopsisOverflowing with creative ideas to draw the community together for fun, food, fellowship and worship, this resource book contains 15 themed programme outlines. Trade ReviewFrom: The Methodist Recorder - 10 January 2008 For a taste of a realistic appraisal of the needs of the wider Church today, coupled with a wealth of well-judged, practical and supremely usable material, look no further than Messy Church. Author Lucy Moore has drawn on the skills she has employed in youth work, drama, training programmes and creative presentations in order to produce a book so replete with wisdom that it is difficult to know which quote to choose as illustration. One such is: "... This journey to faith involves bits of belonging, a little believing, a certain amount of ownership all swilling around together in a life-changing primeval soup while the Spirit works in us to bring us nearer to Jesus in our many different ways." Hence: "If you juggle with this idea, you soon arrive at a church that not only is a joyful mess but which makes a mess joyfully." The first 64 pages examine the concept and considerations of messiness while the remaining 130-odd contain programmes for the summer, autumn and spring terms, with three more for use throughout the year. A summary of a messy church midweek session, as practised at the Anglican St Wilfrid's church in Portsmouth, begins at 3.30pm with half an hour of board games, drink and biscuit, followed by an hour's craft time, a 15-minute church celebration service and a last half-hour devoted to a hot meal. Messy Church is also featured among a series of short stories on the Fresh Expressions DVD.From Country Life Magazine - Autumn 2008 Messy Church describes what happened to one suburban church that realised 'we simply weren't connecting' - especially with children and families - despite suitable premises, leaders and volunteers, and some good ideas. But very importantly, neither church nor author consider this experience to be a model to be copied; rather it is an example to be learnt from. The word messy might be off-putting, but part of it might be spelt risk. This experiment was about moving to, and beyond, the edges of the church, and - to a degree - away from the formal or the familiar. The people the church wanted to reach and serve were 'messy'. Their lives were not easily circumscribed by what normally went on in church. It was successful, particularly in how it brought all ages together in one worshipping community. The book starts by describing the background, with brief but pragmatic theologies of messiness and the church. The key to messy church is a five-fold ethos: creative, hospitable (i.e. food!), all-age, Christ-centred and worshipping. There are very practical sections on safety, recipes and preparing for a messy church experience. The second and longer part is devoted to details of thematic programmes taking messy church through one year. Many Country Wide readers will be from rural churches with fewer resources than the original messy church. But, like much all-age and children's material from the bible Reading Fellowship, this resource lends itself to picking, choosing and adapting. I believe that, if we are serious about reaching people beyond the comfortable fringes of normal church, this may be of a great help whatever community we represent and whatever the size of your church. Reviewed by Simon MartinFrom: The Church Times - 26 Oct 07 Reviewed by the Revd Dr Grenfell, Team Rector of Sheffield Manor and Course Director at Ripon College, Cuddesdon. This is an accessible, honest and highly practical book about a self-consciously fresh expression of church in Portsmouth. Its title is a reminder of the messiness of our individual and corporate journeys of faith, and it also reflects Lucy Moore's conviction that the Church 'should not only be a joyful mess but one which should make a mess joyfully.' Messy Church at St Wilfrid's meets together once a month after school on Thursdays, when 60-90 people of all ages come together to do crafts, worship and share food. The stated aim of Messy Church is to be 'a worshipping community of all ages, centred on Christ, showing Christian hospitality, and giving people a chance to express their creativity, to sit down together to eat a meal, and have fun within a church context.' Moore is clear that Messy Church is to be regarded as a church in its own right, not merely a parachurch group that serves to introduce people to the real thing on Sundays. The book is designed to be both a stimulus and a resource for other churches. Its first section summarises familiar arguments about the necessity to experiment with different forms of church, before describing, in concrete terms, how Messy Church started and has evolved. It is generally a well-thought-through model, resourced by an enviable array of talented, committed and available people; and Moore is honest about some of the limitations, and the areas in which further work is required - for instance, the relationship between Messy Church and the regular Sunday congregation of St Wilfrid's. The second section provides 12 units of high-quality thematic material (enough for a year), including details of numerous craft activities, and suggestions for worship. The book also contains recipes and hints for catering for large numbers. The theological reflection in this book is sometimes a bit thin. I also found it puzzling that, despite the enormous amount of importance which Messy Church (rightly) attaches to food and eating together, there is no mention of this church's celebration of the eucharist. This is, however, undoubtedly a valuable resource for churches engaged in all-age activities and worship, and has much to commend it.From: The Lincoln and Grimsby Methodist Church website Everyone in the church seems to be talking about 'Fresh expressions of church'! So, what about Glentham? Well, I have come across a wonderful concept called 'Messy Church' And so I found myself trawling the Internet for inspiration for our 'Interactive Easter Family Worship' and I came across a book called 'Messy Church' by Lucy Moore As I read the blurb about it I felt excited, it seemed to be just what we were looking for (and more!) What is Messy Church? 'Messy Church is a once-monthly time when families come together to enjoy being together, making things together, eating together and celebrating God together through his work, through music and through prayer. It's different from a children's activity day because it's an event for children and their carers or parents together, and it's more than a local authority fun day because of the element of worship that underpins it all.' And that's just the beginning. The book is very easy to read and wonderfully inspirational with loads of practical ideas.From: Christian Marketplace - August 2007 Fresh Expressions of church are designed for those on the outside or edge of the Christian community. Messy church is a 'must have' for anyone - clergy, children's workers, creative people - serious about reaching people on the edges. It is a brilliant little paperback jam packed with ideas. It is easy to read, laying out the theology and aims of messy church as well as giving 15 plans for all age sessions. Messy church is interactive church, including lots of easy to do craft, worship, Bible story and response, prayers and meals together. There are even recipes for meal suggestions! Messy Church is designed for weekdays because of the fall in numbers of families coming to church on a Sunday. However, I have tried ideas from it at an All Age on a Sunday too, with positive response. Any book that suggeets that people are asked to 'sit down' rather than 'be seated' usually meets with my approval! Reviewed by Ann Eyre.From: Reform - March 2007 The book's main intention is 'to kick start some thinking about what particular form of fresh expression church might take.' The experience behind the book is of an Anglican church - St Wilfrid's. But I knew immediately who would love this book, someone who is part of a URC 'fresh expression' church. Lucy Moore is part of the Messy Church team. This book places adults and children together in the context of fun, food, fellowship and worship. Messy Church is a monthly experience for families, children and carers, which runs from 3.30pm to 5.45pm on Thursdays. It is structured, but fun! After a welcome slot, there are craft activities, worship and food. The aim of Messy Church is 'to be a worshipping community of all ages, centred on Christ, showing Christian hospitality - giving people a chance to express their creativity, to sit down together to eat a meal and have fun within a church context.' The first part offers the story and concept of Messy Church, with a simple and superb section on messy theology. The point is to reach those for whom traditional church does not make much sense. The second part offers four units of ready worked out programmes for three terms - summer, autumn and spring. There are also three unites on biblical landscapes - mountains, roads and seasides. Each unit has an aim, biblical background, food recipe, ten activities and an outline for celebration worship. The songs suggested are usually from either the Humungous Song Book, Kidsource, Shout to the Lord Kids or Great Big God.From Start the Week - 18 November 2006 Fresh Expressions of church is a topic hot for debate and exploration. By recognising the need for our churches to 'be church' in new ways for different people and situations, fresh and exciting projects are springing up around the country. One such 'fresh expression' is Messy Church that enjoys the gifts of food and creativity to help people come closer to God and each other. In her book Messy Church Lucy Moore describes the monthly Thursday afternoon church where Mums, children, carers, grandparents can meet to enjoy craft activities, a meal and a short celebration of God's love for us. The book describes the concept and theology behind such a church. 15 themed programmes are provided with Bible references, craft and art activities, easy to prepare recipes for the meal and family-friendly worship outlines. A complete programme for creative activities, a nutritious meal and a short celebration allow for the community to have fun, be fed and experience worship in a church context. "Messy Church is one of those learning places. It's crammed with good things and there are delights on every page." From the foreword by Steven Croft. Lucy Moore is part of BRF's Barnabas team. She is a published writer, gifted performer and creative arts director. At Barnabas ministry and training events she shares the Bible through lively original poetry and drama, mime and storytelling. Reproduced from Start the Week

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Book SynopsisEquipping your Messy team to pray and encourage others to do so, both within and outside the Messy Church context - Communicating prayer as a concept - Praying as a team in advance and on the day - Prayer ideas for the activity time, celebration time, and at home as a family - Ways of praying the Lord's Prayer - Ways to reimagine other traditional prayers - Creating a prayer space - A Messy Quiet Day outline

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Book SynopsisHow people engage with God today and how the church can help

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Book SynopsisThinking of You is a comprehensive introduction to the subject of dementia. This accessible book is a practical resource for those directly affected by the condition, their immediate family and carers, and those seeking to offer them pastoral care and encourage continuing spiritual growth. Importantly, the author addresses the spiritual care of the affected individual and how to help churches support them and their carers. The final section includes resources for ministry in residential care homes.

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Book SynopsisExplore the freeing, life-changing nature of forgiveness As we move from Ash Wednesday to Easter Day, daily reflections and prayers help us to experience the living power of the cross of Christ through biblical and modern-day stories of wrongdoing and forgiveness. Our journey through Lent will deepen our response to God's love and, as we allow the Holy Spirit to do his work, we will see spiritual transformation in our lives today.

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Book SynopsisLearning to be peacemakers

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Book SynopsisWhere do we turn when our world is falling apart?It takes courage to hope; to stand in our confusion and grief and still to believe that 'God is not helpless among the ruins'. Guided by Habakkuk and his prophetic landmarks, we are drawn on a reflective journey through the tangled landscape of bewildered faith, through places of wrestling and waiting, and on into the growth space of deepened trust and transformation. As you read, discover for yourself the value and practice of honest prayer, of surrender, of silence and listening, and of irrepressible hoping.

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