Christianity Books

Book SynopsisThis bestselling textbook by leading missionary scholars offers an engaging introduction to the work of missions in the contemporary world. It provides a broad overview of the biblical, theological, and historical foundations for missions. It also considers personal and practical issues involved in becoming a missionary, the process of getting to the mission field, and contemporary challenges a mission worker must face. Sidebars, charts, maps, and numerous case studies are included. This new edition has been updated and revised throughout and features a full-color interior. Additional resources for professors and students are available online through Baker Academic's Textbook eSources.Table of ContentsContents1. Missions in the Modern WorldPart 1: Encountering Mission in the Scriptures2. Encountering Mission in the Old Testament3. Encountering Mission in the Gospels4. Encountering Mission in the New Testament Church5. Encountering Mission TheologyPart 2: Encountering Missions in History6. Expansion in the Premodern Era, AD 30-15007. Expansion in the Era of Discovery and Colonialism, AD 1500-19008. Expansion to and from Every Continent, AD 1900-2000Part 3: Encountering Missions as a Candidate9. First Steps: Have You Been Called?10. Missionary Preparation11. Charting a Path from Here to TherePart 4: Encountering Missions as a Sent One and as a Sender12. Personal and Family Issues13. Strategic and Ministry Issues14. Relating to People of Other Cultures15. Relating to Churches and Other ShareholdersPart 5: Missions Encountering the Contemporary World16. Communicating with People of Other Cultures17. Mission Trends and Paradigm Shifts18. Encountering the Religions of the World19. Mission and the FutureReference ListIndexes

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Book SynopsisWorship professor and practitioner Constance Cherry shows how to create services that are faithful to Scripture, historically conscious, relevant to God, Christ-centered, and engaging for worshipers of all ages in the twenty-first century. More than 150 colleges and seminaries have used or currently use the first edition as a required text. In this new edition, each chapter has been substantially updated and revised, including illustrations, key terms, examples, technological references, and suggested resources for further reading. A new chapter on global worship and a new appendix on live-streamed worship are included.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: Why a Book about Worship Design?PHASE ONE: Laying the Foundations for Worship1. Establishing the Foundation: Biblical Worship2. Setting the Cornerstone: Worship Is Centered in Jesus ChristPHASE TWO: Raising the Structure for Worship3. Four Rooms for Encountering God: The Gospel Order of Worship4. The First Room: The Gathering5. The Second Room: The Word6. The Third Room: The Table of the Lord7. The Third Room: The Alternative Response to the Word8 The Fourth Room: The SendingPHASE THREE: Installing Windows for Encountering God9. Encountering God in Prayer: Capturing the Heart of Worship10. Encountering God in Music: Singing the Church's Song11. Encountering God in Music: Offering "Sound" MusicalLeadership12. Encountering God in the Christian Year: Remembering the Whole NarrativePHASE FOUR: Welcoming Worshipers for Authentic Engagement13. Engaging Style: Expressing Worship in an Authentic Voice14. Global Worship: Open the Doors and See All the People15. The Hospitable Worship Leader: Engaging Worshipers as ParticipantsAppendix A: A Definition of Christian WorshipAppendix B: Ten Basic Steps in Designing Vital WorshipAppendix C: Checklist for Designing Vital WorshipAppendix D: Seven Tips for Engaging with Livestreamed WorshipIndex

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Book SynopsisChristianity Today 2023 Award of Merit (Apologetics & Evangelism) Critics outside the church often accuse the Old Testament God of genocide, racism, ethnic cleansing, and violence. But a rising tide of critics within the church claim that Moses and other "primitive," violence-prone prophets were mistaken about God's commands and character. Both sets of critics dismiss this allegedly harsh, flawed, "textual" Old Testament God in favor of the kind, compassionate, "actual" God revealed by Jesus. Are they right to do so? Following his popular book Is God a Moral Monster?, noted apologist Paul Copan confronts false, imbalanced teaching that is confusing and misleading many Christians. Copan takes on some of the most difficult Old Testament challenges and places them in their larger historical and theological contexts. He explores the kindness, patience, and compassion of God in the Old Testament and shows how Jesus in the New Testament reveals not only divine kindness but also divine severity. The book includes a detailed Scripture index of difficult and controversial passages and is helpful for anyone interested in understanding the flaws in these emerging claims that are creating a destructive gap between the Testaments.Table of ContentsContentsPart 1: The Great Divorce: How Wide the Divide between the Old and New Testaments?1. The Old Testament God: Critics from Without and from Within2. Is the God of the Old Testament the Same as the God of the New? (1): Marcion versus Moses3. Is the God of the Old Testament the Same as the God of the New?(2): Moses versus Jesus?4. Is the God of the Old Testament the Same as the God of theNew? (3): Moses versus Jesus? (Continued)Part 2: Lex Rex (the Law, the King): What Makes the Law of Moses So Special?5. "From Heaven or from Human Origin?" Is the Mosaic Law JustAnother Ancient Law Code?6. Multiple Sources and Late Dates? Does the Mosaic Law Have Multiple Authors? Was Fighting the Canaanites a Fiction from the Sixth Century BC?7. Differences between the Law of Moses and Ancient Near EasternLaws (1): The Biblical Vision and Worldview8. Differences between the Law of Moses and Ancient Near EasternLaws (2): Human Dignity, Relationship, and Equality9. Differences between the Law of Moses and Ancient Near EasternLaws (3): Poverty and WealthPart 3: Crime and Punishment:Violations and Penalties in Old Testament Law10. A Bit of Ancient Near Eastern Context11. Israel's Punishments as Nonliteral in the Pentateuch12. Israel's Punishments as Nonliteral in Old Testament HistoryPart 4: For Whom the Bell Tolls:Harsh Texts and Difficult Old Testament Questions13. How Was David "a Man after God's Own Heart"?14. Why Does God Harden People's Hearts?15. Divine Smitings (1): Noah's Flood, Egypt's Firstborn, Uzzah'sDeath16. Divine Smitings (2): Elisha and the Bears, and Punishing Childrento the Third and Fourth Generations17. "Bashing Babies against the Rock"? Imprecatory Psalms in the Old Testament18. "Let His Homestead Be Made Desolate": Imprecatory Psalms inthe New Testament19. Loving Jacob, Hating Esau? Putting Divine and Human Hatred inPerspectivePart 5: Of Human Bondage:Women and Servants in Israelite Society20. Is the Old Testament Really Misogynistic and Patriarchal?21. Espousing Multiple Wives? Revisiting the Matter of Polygamy22. Other Troubling Texts about Women: The Nameless Concubine,the Question of War Rape23. "Servants" in Israel: Persons or Property?24. The "Acquisition" of "Foreign Slaves" (1): A Deeper Dive intoLeviticus 25 00025. The "Acquisition" of "Foreign Slaves" (2): Two Objections and theRunaway OptionPart 6: War and Peace:Warfare and Violence in the Old Testament (and the New)26. Jesus Loves Canaanites--andIsraelites Too: "Jesus 101" and theOld Testament's "Dark Texts"27. "We Left No Survivors": Exaggeration Rhetoric in Israel's War Texts28. Revisiting the Translation of Herem: "Utter Destruction," "Consecration," "Identity Removal," "Removal from Ordinary Use"?29. Deuteronomy's Intensified Rhetoric and the Use of Haram30. Did the Israelites "Cruelly Invade" the Land of Canaan?31. The "Actual" God in Old Testament WarfarePart 7: The Heart of the Matter:The Summing Up of All Things in Christ32. "God Is Christlike, and in Him There Is No Un-Christlikeness at All": Our Critics from Within33. Our Critics from Without (1): Two Important Questions34. Our Critics from Without (2): Five Big StepsQuestions for Small GroupsIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis textbook updates the conversation about models of psychology and faith integration, helping students understand the range of options for Christian engagement. Drawing from themes developed in Paul Moes's well-received Exploring Psychology and Christian Faith (coauthored with Donald J. Tellinghuisen), Integrating Psychology and Faith develops a set of worldview dimensions that serve to organize a variety of psychology-faith integration models. Paul Moes and Blake Riek set forth principles and themes and establish historical context to help students explore where different views fit on a continuum of approaches to integration and understand the perspectives of other Christians in the field of psychology. In this way, students come to better understand the organizing principles for various views about psychology that they encounter. The book also shows how theological traditions and positions shape views on natural science, social science, and psychology.Table of ContentsPart 1: Philosophical Foundations1. Worldviews and Natural Science Beliefs2. Worldviews about Human Nature3. Views in Contemporary Psychology4. Views in Contemporary ReligionPart 2: Models of Integration5. Scientific Reductionism6. Biblical Reductionism7. Complementary Models8. Humanizers of ScienceConclusion and ReflectionAppendix: What Is a Person?Index

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Book SynopsisOutreach 2023 Resource of the Year (Church) Named One of Fifteen Important Theology Books of 2022, Englewood Review of Books Churches and their leaders have innovation fever. Innovation seems exciting--a way to enliven tired institutions, embrace creativity, and be proactive--and is a superstar of the business world. But this focus on innovation may be caused by an obsession with contemporary relevance, creativity, and entrepreneurship that inflates the self, lacks theological depth, and promises burnout. In this follow-up to Churches and the Crisis of Decline, leading practical theologian Andrew Root delves into the problems of innovation. He explores where innovation and entrepreneurship came from, shows how they break into church circles, and counters the "new imaginations" like neoliberalism and technology that hold the church captive to modernity. Root reveals the moral visions of the self that innovation and entrepreneurship deliver--they are dependent on workers (and consumers) being obsessed with their selves, which leads to significant faith-formation issues. This focus on innovation also causes us to think we need to be singularly unique instead of made alive in Christ. Root offers a return to mysticism and the poetry of Meister Eckhart as a healthier spiritual alternative. This is the fifth book in Root's Ministry in a Secular Age series.Table of ContentsContents1. Only the Creative Survive: How Mission Became Married toInnovation2. We're All Sandwich Artists Now: Work and Backwash, Reversing a Historical Flow3. Hungry, Hungry Markets: Workers in Contradiction, Children inConsumption4. Let's Get Extra: Exploring the Secular Contradiction of Capitalism5. Leave It to Management: Managing for Permanent Innovation6. The Viennese Worm That Exposes the True Self: When Work Becomes about Flexible Projects7. Justification by Creative Works Alone: When Creativity Becomes King, the Self Becomes a Star8. Why You're Not That Special but Feel the Need to Be: Singularity and the Self9. Standing Naked against Money10. The Three Amigos of the Mystical Path: How the Self Is Freed from Singularity11. Aesthetic Epiphanies, Mad Poets, and a Humble Example of What This All Looks LikeIndex

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Book SynopsisKarl Barth is one of the most influential theologians of the 20th century. His work is considered essential reading for nearly every student of theology. Reading Barth's theology poses a challenge, however, because of the sheer size of his corpus, the complexity of his claims, and the distance between his context and the context of his readers. In this accessible introduction, a respected scholar in Barthian studies offers a one-stop resource on Barth's thought, providing a selection of his most important writings, critical commentary, and detailed introductory and concluding chapters.Table of ContentsContents1. Introduction: The Life of Karl BarthPart 1: Barth's Theological Development2. The Epistle to the Romans3. The Word of God as the Task of Theology4. An Answer to Professor Adolf von Harnack5. The Resurrection of the Dead6. The Göttingen Dogmatics7. The Holy Spirit and the Christian Life8. Preface to Church Dogmatics I/19. Farewell10. The Humanity of GodPart 2: Barth's Church Dogmatics11. The Task of Dogmatics12. The Word of God13. Revelation and Faith14. The Doctrine of the Trinity15. The Missions of the Son and the Spirit16. The Knowledge of God17. The Reality of God18. The Doctrine of Election19. The Election of Jesus Christ20. God's Decision for the World21. Covenant and Creation22. The Covenant Partner of God23. God and Nothingness24. God with Us25. The Obedience of the Son of God26. The Exaltation of the Son of Man27. The Glory of the Mediator28. The Scope of Salvation29. Christian CommunityPart 3: Barth's Political Engagement30. A Brief Reminiscence of the 1920s31. Sermon on Romans 15:5-1332. The Barmen Theological Declaration33. The Role of Christians in Wartime: A Letter to American Christians34. The Community of Christians and the Community of CitizensConclusion: The Tradition of Karl BarthIndex

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Book SynopsisNow in its fourth edition, this bestselling textbook (over 125,000 copies sold) isolates key events that provide a framework for understanding the history of Christianity. The book presents Christianity as a worldwide phenomenon rather than just a Western experience. This popular textbook is organized around 14 key moments in church history, providing contemporary Christians with a fuller understanding of God as he has revealed his purpose through the centuries. The new edition includes a new preface, updates throughout the book, revised "further readings" for each chapter, new sidebar content, and study questions. It also more thoroughly highlights the importance of women in Christian history and the impact of world Christianity. Turning Points is well suited to introductory courses on the history of Christianity as well as study groups in churches. Additional resources for instructors are available through Textbook eSources.Table of ContentsContentsPreface to the Fourth EditionIntroduction: The Idea of Turning Points and Reasons for Studyingthe History of Christianity1. The Church Pushed Out on Its Own: The Fall of Jerusalem (70)2. Realities of Empire: The Council of Nicaea (325)3. Doctrine, Politics, and Life in the Word: The Council of Chalcedon (451)4. The Monastic Rescue of the Church: Benedict's Rule (530)5. The Culmination of Christendom: The Coronation of Charlemagne(800)6. Division between East and West: The Great Schism (1054)7. The Beginnings of Protestantism: The Diet of Worms (1521)8. Church and Nation: The English Act of Supremacy (1534)9. Catholic Reform and Worldwide Outreach: The Founding of theJesuits (1540)10. The New Piety: The Conversion of the Wesleys (1738)11. Discontents of the Modern West: The French Revolution (1789)12. A Faith for All the World: The Edinburgh Missionary Conference(1910)13. Mobilizing for the Future: The Second Vatican Council (1962-65)and the Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization (1974)Afterword: The Character of Christianity and the Search forTurning PointsStudy QuestionsIndex

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Book SynopsisSouthwestern Journal of Theology 2023 Book Award (Honorable Mention, Biblical Reference/Biblical Backgrounds) Often students want to maintain their Biblical Greek when they're between courses, but they don't know where to start. This book provides ninety days of guided reading and brief exercises to help students retain or revive their knowledge and skill in reading and interpreting Biblical Greek. Noted language expert Benjamin Merkle guides readers through level-appropriate texts selected from across the New Testament canon, encouraging them to read and analyze one or two verses a day. The book begins with easy texts and gradually increases in difficulty through the 90 days. Each reading ends with a section called "For the Journey," which provides a practical application or reflection on the text, and an answer key so that students can check their work. This follow-up to Merkle's Exegetical Gems from Biblical Greek is ideal for Greek language students after their first year of study and for those who want to revive their knowledge and love of Biblical Greek. A companion volume on Hebrew is forthcoming.Table of ContentsIntroductionJourney 1: EasyRoute 1: John 1:1-9Route 2: John 1:10-18Route 3: Revelation 1:4-9Route 4: Revelation 7:9-17Route 5: Matthew 5:43-48Route 6: John 8:39-44Journey 2: IntermediateRoute 7: Luke 2:1-8Route 8: Luke 2:9-15Route 9: Romans 1:11-17Route 10: Ephesians 2:1-10Route 11: Ephesians 2:11-18Route 12: 1 Timothy 2:1-7Journey 3: DifficultRoute 13: Mark 8:31-37Route 14: James 2:18-26Route 15: 1 Peter 4:12-19Route 16: Jude 17-25Route 17: Hebrews 3:1-6Route 18: Hebrews 13:20-25Appendix: Supplemental VocabularyIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis introductory theology text helps students articulate basic Christian doctrines, think theologically so they can act Christianly in a diverse world, and connect Christian thought to their everyday lives of faith. Written from a solidly evangelical yet ecumenically aware perspective, this book models a way of doing theology that is generous and charitable. It attends to history and contemporary debates and features voices from the global church. Sidebars made up of illustrative quotations, key Scripture passages, classic hymn texts, and devotional poetry punctuate the chapters. The first edition of this book has been well received (over 25,000 copies sold). Updated and revised throughout, this second edition also includes a new section on gender and race as well as new end-of-chapter material connecting each doctrine to a spiritual discipline.Table of ContentsIntroduction: To Practice Doctrine1. Speaking of God: Theology and the Christian Life2. Knowing God: Doctrines of Revelation and Scripture3. The God We Worship: Doctrine of the Trinity4. A Delightful World: Doctrines of Creation and Providence5. Reflecting God's Image: Theological Anthropology6. The Personal Jesus Christ: Christology7. The Saving Work of Jesus Christ: Soteriology8. The Holy Spirit and the Christian Life: Pneumatology9. One Church in a Diverse World: Ecclesiology10. Resurrection Hope: EschatologyBenediction: A Prayer for the Practice of Christian DoctrineIndexes

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Book SynopsisAn author on the cutting edge of today's theology and science discussions argues that creedal Christianity has much to contribute to the ongoing conversation. This book contains an intellectual history of theology's engagement with science during the modern period, critiques current approaches, and makes a constructive proposal for how a Christian theological vision of natural knowledge can be better pursued. The author explains that it is good both for religion and for science when Christians treat theology as their first truth discourse. Foreword by David Bentley Hart.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by David Bentley HartIntroduction: A Christian Theology of Science1. Starting Definitions of Christian Theology and of Science2. Viewing Christian Theology through the Truth Lens of Science3. Christian Theology as a First Truth Discourse4. Viewing Science through the Truth Lens of Christian Theology5. The Remarkable Reversal--Revisiting History6. Thinking "After" Science but Not "After" Christian Theology7. Rediscovering Christian Theological Epistemology8. Myth and History--the Fall and Science9. Recovering an Integrative ZoneEpilogue: The Future?GlossaryIndex

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Book SynopsisTraditional views of the atonement tend to be reductive, focusing solely on Jesus's death on the cross. In his 2011 groundbreaking book Atonement and the Logic of Resurrection in the Epistle to the Hebrews, David Moffitt challenged that paradigm, showing how the atonement is a fuller process. It involves not only Jesus's death but also his resurrection, ascension, offering, and exaltation. In the succeeding years, Moffitt has continued to expand and clarify his thinking on this issue. This book offers a more fulsome articulation of his work on the atonement that reflects his recent thinking on the topic. Moffitt continues to challenge reductive views of the atonement, primarily from the book of Hebrews, but he engages other New Testament passages as well. He offers fresh insights on sacrifice and atonement, the importance of resurrection and ascension, Jesus's role as priest, and a new perspective on Hebrews. This important book brings Moffitt's award-winning and influential scholarship to a broader audience. The book includes a foreword by N. T. Wright.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by N. T. Wright1. Rethinking the Atonement: An Introduction2. Modeled on Moses: Jesus's Death, Passover, and the Defeat of the Devil in the Epistle to the Hebrews3. Wilderness Identity and Pentateuchal Narrative: Distinguishing between Jesus's Inauguration and Maintenance of the New Covenant in Hebrews4. Isaiah 53, Hebrews, and Covenant Renewal5. "If Another Priest Arises": Jesus's Resurrection and the High-PriestlyChristology of Hebrews6. Blood, Life, and Atonement: Reassessing Hebrews' Christological Appropriation of Yom Kippur7. Weak and Useless? Purity, the Mosaic Law, and Perfection inHebrews8. Serving in the Tabernacle in Heaven: Sacred Space, Jesus's High-Priestly Sacrifice, and Hebrews' Analogical Theology9. It Is Not Finished: Jesus's Perpetual Atoning Work as the Heavenly High Priest in Hebrews10. Observations on Directional Features of the Incarnation and Jesus's Sacrifice in Hebrews11. Jesus's Heavenly Sacrifice in Early Christian Reception of Hebrews: A Survey12. Righteous Bloodshed, Matthew's Passion Narrative, and the Temple'sDestruction: Lamentations as a Matthean Intertext13. The Sign of Jonah and the Prophet Motif in the Gospel of Matthew: Moving toward the Gentile Mission14. Atonement at the Right Hand: The Sacrificial Significance of Jesus's Exaltation in Acts15. Affirming the "Creed": The Extent of Paul's Citation of an EarlyChristian Formula in 1 Corinthians 15:3b-7Indexes

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Book SynopsisLet the wisdom of Colossians transform relationships in every area of your life -- home, church, and even the world -- with this study guide from renowned Bible teacher Joyce Meyer.Paul's letter to the Colossians reminds us that as we have died with Christ, we also need to die to our sins. It encourages us that because we have also been raised in Him, we must submit to Jesus and adopt qualities motivated by Christian love. In this comprehensive study tool, Joyce Meyer's commentary on Colossians affirms the Lordship of Christ and offers practical advice on family, relationships, and faith.

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Book Synopsis Based on the bestselling video series What''s in the Bible?, Why Easter? features a foundational faith concept and charming illustrations to help parents teach preschoolers why we celebrate Easter. Clive laughed. ". . .But colorful eggs and fluffy bunnies aren''t what Easter is about anyway." "They aren''t?" Ian asked. "Why do we celebrate Easter then?" As brothers Clive and Ian dye Easter eggs and discuss their favorite things about the holiday-the Easter pony . . . or is it a bunny . . . or perhaps an Easter chicken?-Clive explains that Easter is about more than colorful eggs and fluffy bunnies. So why do we celebrate Easter? The answer is as exciting as it is wonderful: because of Jesus!

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Book SynopsisAs the old adage goes, you have to ask the right questions before you can get the right answers. And that's exactly what the Not Your Average Bible Study series helps you do. Rather than spoon-feeding you with individual facts, this study of James coaches you on how to think through the text as a whole. Tested and proven in Bible Study Magazine, it's perfect for group and individual studies alike.We can easily become entangled in the cares of this world and forget the important things in life. When we lose sight of the big picture, James reminds us what truly matters--the gospel. He challenges us to be "doers of the Word, and not hearers only." The gospel should define how we think, feel, and act.Each section of the guide begins with a concise introduction, providing context for the biblical passage. Next, you'll consider questions designed to prompt your own in-depth study. You'll also find specific prayer suggestions, along with ideas for further research. Experience the joy of discovering biblical insights for yourself--then apply these lessons to your everyday life.This is not your average Bible study!

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Book SynopsisWhen interpreting Scripture, do we take an academic or a spiritual approach? Do we emphasize the human or the divine agency? Do we focus on man's authorship or God's inspiration?Mark Bowald argues that these are false dichotomies. We need to understand both the human qualities of Scripture and the divine, as an overemphasis on either will lead to distortions. In Rendering the Word in Theological Hermeneutics, Bowald surveys various schools of thought, explaining where they lose the balance between the two. He analyzes the hermeneutical methods of George Lindbeck, Hans Frei, Kevin Vanhoozer, Francis Watson, Stephen Fowl, David Kelsey, Werner Jeanrond, Karl Barth, James K. A. Smith, and Nicholas Wolterstorff.Bowald shows that we should view Scripture as equally human and divine in origin and character. And our reading of Scripture should involve both critical rigor and openness to the leading of God's Spirit.Trade ReviewRendering the Word is one of the most astute treatments of scriptural hermeneutics in recent years. It is a work of considerable theological perception, most of all in its clear-minded and penetrating analysis of the place and significance of divine agency in the interpretation of Scripture.--John Webster, professor of divinity at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. Author of Confronted by Grace"Theological hermeneutics has no more avid cartographer than Mark Bowald. Readers who are still wondering what theological interpretation of Scripture is would do well to orient themselves to the discussion by consulting Bowald's charts. Bowald does more than map out this strange new continent, however; he makes a constructive dogmatic claim about the role of divine agency. This is intelligent theological mapmaking, a book to take up and read to find one's way through the issue of God's presence and activity in biblical interpretation."--Kevin J. Vanhoozer, Research professor of systematic theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

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Book SynopsisCommon Grace is often considered Abraham Kuyper's crowning work, an exploration of how God expresses grace even to the unsaved. Kuyper firmly believed that though many people in the world will remain unconverted, God's grace is still shown to the world as a whole. The second volume of Common Grace contains Kuyper's doctrinal exploration of the impact and implications of this aspect of Reformed theology. Never before published in English, this translation Common Grace is now available as part of a 12-volume series of Kuyper's most important writings on public theology. Created in partnership with the Kuyper Translation Society and the Acton Institute, the Abraham Kuyper Collected Works in Public Theology will deepen and enrich the church's understanding of public theology in today's world.

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Book SynopsisAbraham Kuyper firmly believed that Jesus Christ is King not just of Christians, but of the entire cosmos. In volume two of Pro Rege, he continues his analysis of the extent to which Christ rules--first in the human heart, then in the life of the church, and continuing to the life of the Christian family. Kuyper believed that it was nonsense to distinguish between life inside and outside of church walls. Here, he shows that although Jesus' kingship has been denied and denigrated, Christ still exerts his power in the world through his people. This new translation of Pro Rege, created in partnership with the Abraham Kuyper Translation Society and the Acton Institute, is part of a major series of new translations of Kuyper's most important writings. The Abraham Kuyper Collected Works in Public Theology marks a historic moment in Kuyper studies, aimed at deepening and enriching the church's development of public theology.

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Book SynopsisWhat is the relationship between the church and the state? Dutch politician and Christian activist Abraham Kuyper was deeply invested in debates over the influence Christianity should have on his nation. As a pastor and theologian, he was just as concerned about the ailing Dutch church. In On the Church, the Acton Institute and the Abraham Kuyper Translation Society have partnered with Lexham Press to publish seven brand-new translations of Kuyper's most influential essays and speeches on the relationship between Christianity and the world. Kuyper believed that Christians must neither hide from the world behind the walls of physical church buildings nor engage the world solely through earthly institutions. The introductory essay by Ad de Bruijne discusses how Kuyper's incisive view of the church still can--and must--apply today, just as it did at the turn of the 20th century.

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Book SynopsisIn his epistle to the Philippians, Paul addresses internal struggles and external pressures that the church faced. In the letter he presents the sacrificial life of Christ as the ultimate example, "the ethical foundation for all of life," and then calls believers to imitate Christ in their own lives.In this volume, Mark J. Keown scrupulously examines Philippians with a clear eye on the original text and a fine-tuned ear to first-century culture while also interacting with the full history of scholarship on Philippians. Keown also carefully considers the letter's theological and devotional importance for present-day believers. The result is the most comprehensive commentary on Philippians yet published.

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Book SynopsisChristian educators and parents will learn how to use methods pioneered by Charlotte Mason to create a learning environment that encourages children's natural love of learning.

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Book SynopsisReflects on nine passages from the Psalms and weaves them together with everyday life and the world in which we live.

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive theology of the Holy Spirit examines and explains the role of the third member of the Trinity.

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Book SynopsisThis singular, comprehensive treatment of one of Christianity's essential doctrines gives definitive, Bible-based answers about salvation and the cross—and about related theological issues such as grace and regeneration.

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Book SynopsisEmotional purity involves protecting your heart from becoming too intimate with someone of the opposite sex so you don't have to suffer through emotional damage over and over again.

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Book SynopsisHow does one measure success in ministry? Longtime pastor Kent Hughes and his wife Barbara urge readers to turn to God's Word rather than numbers.

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Book SynopsisDrawing from God’s self-revelation in Exodus 34, Hamilton moves through the Bible book by book, showing that there is one theological center to the whole Bible: God’s glory in salvation through judgment.

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Book SynopsisThis book is a classic of esoteric Christianity in which Tomberg reflects on the mysteries of humanity's covenant with God through history.The book includes meditations on creation, the fall, the Old Testament covenant and the ten commandments, before moving on to Christ's miracles, culminating in the raising of Lazarus as a symbol for humanity being raised from sleep and death to wakefulness and resurrection.

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Book SynopsisThis classic book on the four 'Oxford Christians' is now available again with a new Preface by R. J. Reilly himself. Reilly provides insights into the literary, religious and philosophical background of these extraordinary writers and thinkers, and the remarkable effect of their work which endures in the public imagination. Devoting a chapter to each of Owen Barfield, C. S. Lewis, Charles Williams and J. R. R. Tolkien, he explores their creative imagination and discusses their differences and similarities.Trade Review'An especially valuable guide to these writers' intellectual principles and goals. This is a splendid book, highly recommended.'-- Philip Zaleski, editor of Best American Spiritual Writing'The world is awash with writing on the Inklings these days, but precious little of it has the scope, the clarity, and the ability to surprise and convince that are in evidence on just about every page of this pioneering and brilliant study.'-- Ptolemy Tompkins, author of Paradise Fever and senior editor of Guideposts Magazine'I came away from a recent rereading with a renewed sense of the vital relevance of these four thinkers to the philosophical, theological and religious tasks of our post-secular world.'-- Jacob Holsinger Sherman, California Institute of Integral Studies'I love this book. The writing is beautiful; the point of view, wise and illuminating; and Reilly is one of the few who can elucidate Barfield’s famously condensed prose without watering it down.'-- Kate Farrell, author of Time’s River: The Voyage of Life in Art & Poetry

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Book Synopsis'Wilt thou be made whole?' is the question Jesus addresses to the paralyzed man who had waited in vain for years at the pool of Bethesda. Finally he says, 'Take up your bed and walk.' This thoughtful book asks what power within ourselves Jesus's call can awaken, that can help make us whole and healthy. Kühlewind presents meditations to help the reader think about Jesus's various psychological and physical healing in the Bible. These exercises lead us to a new, deeper understanding of the healing process, and how we might heal ourselves.

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Book SynopsisThe global pandemic has levied a heavy toll on humanity, but in its wake appears a great opportunity. Amidst what he calls a crisis of modernity, Giulio Maspero points to a phenomenon that can be seen in plain sight. "The absence of personal relationships highlighted by the health crisis exposes the consequences of the modern matrix, which, having lost its Christian element, now risks transforming itself into a digital matrix, substantially configuring itself as a technognosis." Without Trinitarian framework ancient and new idols emerge, as the Covid-19 tragedies have shown. Yet post-pandemic must be a moment of clarity and realism, as we can see how necessary it is that humanity place itself in relation to something beyond. The post-modern journey, however, must be in the spirit of Christian humanism or else any so-called progress will no longer be unable to speak authentically of our humanity. That is to say, the relational dimension of human life will be erased right along with the other ills that plague our earth.

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Book SynopsisEric Voegelin (1901–1985) is widely regarded as one of the greatest political philosophers of the 20th century, yet adequate understanding of his writings stands as a challenge for current and future generations. Voegelin’s thought continued to develop at a rapid pace during the last two decades of his life, and as Ellis Sandoz has written, his work found “not only its final but its most profound expression” during this period. Voegelin’s fame stemmed mostly from his many books and the laudatory review articles published in response to them, but he was “preeminently an essayist,” as Sandoz observes. The meditative analyses and essays written in the culminating phase of Voegelin’s career not only expand and deepen his work as a whole, but also revise central components of it in ways that compel reconsideration of even his most widely read texts. Voegelin’s books gave rise to a vast secondary literature that continues to grow, yet the exceptionally impactful late essays and meditative works have never received the scholarly commentaries they deserve because they were published originally as journal articles or chapters in edited collections. This volume remedies that shortcoming with 14 critical analyses that elucidate the late essays while also addressing their implications for the entirety of Voegelin’s thought. The commentaries will prove invaluable to students and scholars in political science, philosophy, history, theology, and other disciplines, serving as a companion piece to the singularly important Vol. 12 of Voegelin’s Collected Works, Published Essays 1966–1985.Trade ReviewEric Voegelin’s life work is best understood as a “zetema,” a philosopher’s life-long quest for truth, one that underwent substantial changes during the final phase of his quest. As Michael Franz explains in his Introduction, Voegelin’s last essays have not received the critical attention they deserve, yet they contain the most refined formulations of his thought. Franz has succeeded in enlisting scholars thoroughly aquatinted with Voegelin’s voluminous publications who are well qualified to analyze the theoretical advances in these last essays and relate them to the better-known, previous stages of his exploration of orders and disorders of the soul and of society. —Stephen A. McKnight, Professor Emeritus of European Intellectual and Cultural History, University of FloridaEric Voegelin was the most important political philosopher of the twentieth century. He not only stood up for liberal democracy and common sense against both Hitler and Stalin, working to understand the experiences that gave rise to their followings. Although his fully mature writings moved on from an early tendency to attribute many modern political and spiritual ills to a pattern of thinking he called “gnosticism,” many readers still tend to interpret his thought as centered on this outdated concept, which Voegelin himself later left behind. The analyses in this volume focus on essays representing his most developed and profound thought, offering us a more rounded understanding and enabling us to see how Voegelin can help us address the political and spiritual challenges of our present time. —Eugene Webb, Professor Emeritus, The Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, University of WashingtonTable of ContentsIntroduction: Michael Franz Chapter 1: Voegelin’s “The German University and the Order of German Society: A Reconsideration of the Nazi Era" – Barry Cooper Chapter 2: Voegelin’s On Debate and Existence” – Steven F. McGuire Chapter 3: Voegelin’s "Immortality: Experience and Symbol" – Henrik Syse Chapter 4: Voegelin’s “Configurations of History” – Paul Kidder Chapter 5: Voegelin’s “Equivalences of Experience and Symbolization in History” – Glenn Hughes Chapter 6: Voegelin‘s “On Henry James’s Turn of the Screw” – Charles R. Embry Chapter 7: Voegelin’s “The Gospel and Culture” – Thomas Heilke Chapter 8: Voegelin’s “On Hegel: A Study in Sorcery” – David Walsh Chapter 9: Voegelin’s “On Classical Studies” – Julianne M. Romanello Chapter 10: Voegelin’s “Reason: The Classic Experience” – William Petropulos Chapter 11: Voegelin’s “Response to Professor Altizer” – Paulette Kidder Chapter 12: Voegelin’s “Remembrance of Things Past” – Paul Kidder Chapter 13: Voegelin’s "Wisdom and the Magic of the Extreme: A Meditation” – Michael Franz Chapter 14: Voegelin’s “Quod Deus Dicitur” — Thomas Heilke with Paul Caringella Index

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Book SynopsisIn this introduction to ecclesiology, respected scholars Brad Harper and Paul Louis Metzger offer a solidly evangelical yet ecumenical survey of the church in mission and doctrine. Combining biblical, historical, and cultural analysis, this comprehensive text explores the church as a Trinitarian, eschatological, worshiping, sacramental, serving, ordered, cultural, and missional community. It also offers practical application, addressing contemporary church life issues such as women in ministry, evangelism, social action, consumerism in church growth trends, ecumenism, and the church in postmodern culture. The book will appeal to all who are interested in church doctrine, particularly undergraduates and seminarians.Table of ContentsIntroduction1. The Church as a Trinitarian Community: The Being-Driven Church2. The Trinitarian Church Confronts American Individualism3. The Church as an Eschatological Community4. Eschatology, the Church, and Ecology5. The Church as a Worshipping Community6. The Worshipping Church Engages Culture7. The Church as a Sacramental Community8. Sacraments and the Search for the Holy Grail9. The Church as a Serving Community10. Church Discipline--The Lost Element of Service11. The Church as an Ordered Community12. The Role of Women in the Ordered Community13. The Church as a Cultural Community: Christ, Culture, and the Sermon on the Mount Community14. Getting Past the Ghettoizing of the Gospel in Today's Culture15. The Church as a Missional Community: The Being-Driven Church16. From Building Programs to Building God's Missional KingdomA Postmodern PostscriptRecommended ReadingsAppendix: Types of Ecclesiology

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Book SynopsisWhether in the cafeteria, classroom, or dorm lounge, questions abound on college campuses. Not only do students grapple with existential issues but they also struggle with ethical ones such as "Why be moral?" In Introducing Moral Theology, William Mattison addresses this question as well as grapples with the impact that religious belief has on day-to-day living. Structured in two parts, this unique text on Catholic moral theology covers cardinal virtues (temperance, prudence, fortitude, and justice) as well as theological virtues (faith, hope, and love). It is equipped with study questions, terms and their definitions, and illustrative case studies. Rooted in the Catholic tradition, this overview will also appeal to non-Catholics interested in virtue ethics.Table of ContentsIntroduction1. Morality, Happiness, and the "Good Life": How Do I Live My Life, and Why Do I Live That Way?2. Intentions, Good Acts, and Human Freedom3. Why Virtue? The Moral Life as More Than Actions4. The Virtue of Temperance: Living a Passionate Moral Life5. The Virtue of Prudence: Knowing the Truth and Living It6. Alcohol and American College Life: Test Case One7. The Virtue of Justice and Justice in Waging War8. Using the Atom Bomb in World War II: Test Case Two9. The Virtue of Fortitude and the Unity of the Virtues10. A Transition: Actions, Practices, and Big-Picture Beliefs about the Way Things Are11. The Virtue of Faith: Answering Big-Picture Questions12. Sin: Corruption of Human Happiness13. The Virtue of Hope: Eternity in This Life and the Next14. Jesus Christ: Incarnation and Life in Christ15. The Virtue of Charity: The Form of the Christian Life16. Grace: The Gift of the Holy Spirit for the Virtuous Life17. Chastity and Nonmarital Sex: Test Case Three18. Euthanasia: Test Case FourEpilogue: Praying for VirtuesIndex

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Book SynopsisThe Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible encourages readers to explore how the vital roots of the ancient Christian tradition inform and shape faithfulness today. In this volume, a leading theologian known for his expertise on Barth offers a theological reading of Philippians. George Hunsinger draws on patristic and medieval theology and on Calvin, Edwards, Barth, and Torrance as he explores what the biblical text means for ecclesial interpretation today. As with other series volumes, this commentary is designed to serve the church, providing a rich resource for preachers, teachers, students, and study groups.

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Book SynopsisWidely respected theologian Gerald McDermott has spent two decades investigating the meaning of Israel and Judaism. What he has learned has required him to rethink many of his previous assumptions. Israel Matters addresses the perennially important issue of the relationship between Christianity and the people and land of Israel, offering a unique and compelling "third way" between typical approaches and correcting common misunderstandings along the way. This book challenges the widespread Christian assumption that since Jesus came to earth, Jews are no longer special to God as a people, and the land of Israel is no longer theologically significant. It traces the author's journey from thinking those things to discovering that the New Testament authors believed the opposite of both. It also shows that contrary to what many Christians believe, the church is not the new Israel, and both the people and the land of Israel are important to God and the future of redemption. McDermott offers an accessible but robust defense of a "New Christian Zionism" for pastors and laypeople interested in Israel and Christian-Jewish relations. His approach will also spark a conversation among theologians and biblical scholars.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction1. Getting the Big Story Wrong2. Does the New Testament Teach That the Church Is the New Israel?3. Those Who Got It Right: A History of Christian Zionism Starting in the Second Century4. Looking More Closely at the Old Testament: Salvation for the World through Israel5. Looking More Closely at the New Testament: A Future for Both the People and the Land of Israel6. Political Objections: What about the Palestinians?7. Theological Objections: Is the First Covenant Obsolete?8. If All This Is True, Then What?9. Six ProposalsAppendix: Covenant and Land in the Old TestamentIndexes

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Book SynopsisIn response to a world awash in sexual chaos and gender confusion, this book offers a bold and thoroughly biblical look at the meaning of the body, sex, gender, and marriage. Bestselling author, cultural commentator, and popular theologian Christopher West is one of the world's most recognized teachers of John Paul II's Theology of the Body. He specializes in making this teaching accessible to all Christians, with particular attention to evangelicals. As West explains, from beginning to end the Bible tells a story of marriage. It begins with the marriage of man and woman in an earthly paradise and ends with the marriage of Christ and the church in an eternal paradise. In our post-sexual-revolution world, we need to remember that our bodies tell a divine story and proclaim the gospel itself. As male and female and in the call to become "one flesh," our bodies reveal a "great mystery" that mirrors Christ's love for the church (Eph. 5:31-32). This book provides a redemptive rather than repressive approach to sexual purity, explores the true meaning of sex and marriage, and offers a compelling vision of what it means to be created male and female. Foreword by Eric Metaxas.Table of ContentsContents Foreword by Eric Metaxas Introduction 1. Our Bodies Tell God's Story 2. Sex in the Garden of Eden 3. The Fall and Redemption of Sex 4. Will There Be Sex in Heaven? 5. This Is a Profound Mystery 6. Sex Refers to Christ and His Church 7. Keeping God in the Bedroom Conclusion Indexes

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Book SynopsisOutreach 2022 Recommended Resource (Spiritual Growth) All fruitful doing must begin with being. For many Christians, it's easy to be swept up into the fast pace of modern life, desiring to do much for God. But we struggle to slow down and be with God. According to pastor, Enneagram teacher, and author AJ Sherrill, being with God is what empowers doing for God. Sherrill shares his own journey from "busy" Christianity to the ancient paths of contemplative practices. He equips readers to integrate rhythms of stillness, silence, and solitude, offering step-by-step guidance and examples of finding solitude both personally and on retreats. Sherrill warns that making these changes appears absurd in a society where time is money, productivity is central, and hurry is a way of life. He guides readers gently through the beginning and often confusing stages of contemplative practice. Citing timely insights from the world of neurology and mental health, he shows that solitude is crucial not only for Christian growth but also for holistic flourishing. Foreword by Rich Villodas. Readers will emerge, centered in Christ, well on their way to this goal: slow down, pay attention, be still, and be loved.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by Rich VillodasIntroduction: Read MePart 1: Absurdity1. Weird2. Tech3. HearPart 2: Necessity4. Noise5. Room6. Still7. Groans8. Dive9. GazePart 3: Neurology10. Breath11. Stress12. SleepConclusion: Benefits of Contemplative PrayerAppendix A: Designing a Contemplative RetreatAppendix B: Additional Resources

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Book SynopsisWhat makes people lonely? And how can Christian communities better minister to the lonely? In The Loneliness Epidemic, behavioral scientist and researcher Susan Mettes explores those questions and more. Guided by current research from Barna Group, Mettes illustrates the profound physical, emotional, and social toll of loneliness in the United States. Surprisingly, her research shows that it is not the oldest Americans but the youngest adults who are loneliest and that social media can actually play a positive role in alleviating loneliness. Mettes highlights the role that belonging, friendship, closeness, and expectations play in preventing it. She also offers meaningful ways the church can minister to lonely people, going far beyond simplistic solutions--like helping them meet new people--to addressing their inner lives and the God who understands them. With practical and highly applicable tips, this book is an invaluable tool for anyone--ministry leaders, parents, friends--trying to help someone who feels alone. Readers will emerge better able to deal with their own loneliness and to help alleviate the loneliness of others. Foreword by Barna Group president David Kinnaman.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by David KinnamanPart 1: Understanding an Epidemic1. Lonely Americans: Studying Our Loneliness2. What Loneliness Is: A Definition of TermsPart 2: When Loneliness Defies Stereotypes3. Age4. Romance5. Insecurity6. Social Media7. Faith and Churchgoing8. PrivacyPart 3: Protecting against Loneliness9. Belonging10. Closeness11. Expectations12. Breaking the CycleAppendix A: What the Bible Says about LonelinessAppendix B: Should We Look for a "Cure" for Loneliness?

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Book Synopsis"Smith's sage advice will aid Christians in recognizing the simple joys of practicing their faith."--Publishers Weekly Western culture is in a tailspin, and Christian faith is entangled in it: we do kingdom things in empire ways. Western approaches to faith leave us feeling depressed, doubting, anxious, and burned out. We know something is wrong with the way we do faith and church in the West, but we're so steeped in it that we don't know where to begin to break old habits. Popular pastor and speaker Mandy Smith invites us to be unfettered from the deeply ingrained habits of Western culture so we can do kingdom things in kingdom ways again. She explores how we can be transformed by new postures and habits that help us see God already at work in and around us. The way forward isn't more ideas, programs, and problem-solving but in Jesus's surprising invitation to the kingdom through childlikeness. Ultimately, rediscovering childlike habits is a way for us to remember how to be human. Unfettered helps us reimagine how to follow God with our whole selves again and join with God's mission in the world. Foreword by Walter Brueggemann.Table of ContentsContentsForeword by Walter BrueggemannIntroduction1. Rest2. What Gets in the Way of Rest3. Receive4. What Doesn't Get in the Way of Receiving5. Respond6. What Keeps us from Responding7. A Theology of Childlikeness8. Rest, Receive, RespondAppendix

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Book SynopsisChristianity Today 2023 Book Award Finalist (Bible & Devotional) Sheltering Mercy helps us rediscover the rich treasures of the Psalms--through free-verse prayer renderings of their poems and hymns--as a guide to personal devotion and meditation. The church has always used the Psalms as part of its prayer life, and they have inspired countless other prayers. This book contains 75 prayers drawn from Psalms 1-75, providing lyrical sketches of what authors Ryan Whitaker Smith and Dan Wilt have seen, heard, and felt while sojourning in the Psalms. While each prayer corresponds to a particular psalm and touches on its themes and ideas, it is not a new translation of the Psalms or an attempt to modernize or contextualize their content or language. Rather, the prayers are responses to the Psalms written in harmony with Scripture. These prayers help us quiet our hearts before God and welcome us into a safe place amid the storms of life. This artful, poetic, and classic devotional book features compelling custom illustrations and beautiful hardcover binding, offering a fresh way to reflect on and pray the Psalms.Table of ContentsContentsIntroductionPsalm 1: River TreePsalm 2: Lord of NationsPsalm 3: Heralds of UngracePsalm 4: Architect of SalvationPsalm 5: The House of GodPsalm 6: God of the LivingPsalm 7: Shield and ShadowPsalm 8: Fashioned from ChaosPsalm 9: Native TonguePsalm 10: Until Evil EndsPsalm 11: The Path to JoyPsalm 12: The Story of MercyPsalm 13: A Voice in the DarkPsalm 14: The Side of the RedeemedPsalm 15: A Hill of the HeartPsalm 16: God of the FeastPsalm 17: Justice PleaPsalm 18: The Dawning of the DayPsalm 19: Night and DayPsalm 20: The Blessing of ChristPsalm 21: Heir of GodPsalm 22: Stripped of GloryPsalm 23: Further Up and Further InPsalm 24: A Fountain Running OverPsalm 25: A Hypocrite HymnPsalm 26: Cloaked in GracePsalm 27: Light and LifePsalm 28: Wind and WordPsalm 29: Living WordPsalm 30: Drawn from Death's DoorPsalm 31: Covenant KeeperPsalm 32: The Face of MercyPsalm 33: The Sound of JoyPsalm 34: Illumined by LifePsalm 35: Strong LordPsalm 36: Patient ChrysalisPsalm 37: You Are WisdomPsalm 38: Shattered PortraitPsalm 39: Saved by GracePsalm 40: A Testimony to SalvationPsalm 41: You See the PoorPsalm 42: Seized by LongingPsalm 43: Christ Who SavesPsalm 44: Broken FamilyPsalm 45: In UnionPsalm 46: The One Safe PlacePsalm 47: Blessed TrinityPsalm 48: King of New JerusalemPsalm 49: Your TruthPsalm 50: Grounded by GratitudePsalm 51: Restorer of Broken ThingsPsalm 52: How Long?Psalm 53: Any One of UsPsalm 54: Living SacrificePsalm 55: Open HeartPsalm 56: When Strength FailsPsalm 57: These Rival PowersPsalm 58: Marketplace of IdolsPsalm 59: Deliver Me from EvilPsalm 60: Rebuilder of RuinsPsalm 61: Journey HomePsalm 62: Quiet WhisperPsalm 63: Good and Sustaining GodPsalm 64: God Will JudgePsalm 65: UnrestrainedPsalm 66: God of All ThingsPsalm 67: Praise, Praise, PraisePsalm 68: At Last!Psalm 69: The Name That SavesPsalm 70: Lord over Death and DarknessPsalm 71: Always an EdenPsalm 72: A Prayer for Those in PowerPsalm 73: This Place We MeetPsalm 74: Remember UsPsalm 75: The Times of Your Knowing

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Book Synopsis"Those at a faith crossroads will want to pick this up."--Publishers Weekly The Gospel Coalition 2023 Book Award (Evangelism & Apologetics) Even those who live by faith sometimes doubt. Those doubts don't have to mean the end of Christian identity. In Surprised by Doubt, Joshua Chatraw and Jack Carson help readers rediscover a deeper faith in the midst of a confusing world. They invite skeptics and doubters to explore the ancient faith for a new perspective on contemporary Christianity. Chatraw and Carson build on C. S. Lewis's metaphor that envisions Christianity as a house with many rooms, suggesting that readers move beyond the cramped attic of reactionary versions of the faith to explore the larger, more ancient main floors of the house. With pastoral care and intellectual rigor, Chatraw and Carson not only help Christians think through the issues confronting them. They also help readers engage their emotional journey of anxiety, fear, anger, and frustration. Readers will discover the wisdom of the past and ways to reimagine a faith that can thrive alongside doubt.Table of ContentsContentsPreface: Confessions of a TheologianPart 1: The Attic1. This Isn't How They Told Us It Would Be2. An Invitation to Explore the House of Faith3. Looking Back to Look at the Attic4. Life in the Attic5. Finding a Better PosturePart 2: Outside the House6. New Atheism7. Optimistic Skepticism8. Open Spirituality9. Mythic Truth Interlude: Before Exploring DownstairsPart 3: The Main FloorPerspective 1: Looking At10. The Historical Foundation11. The Person at the Center12. The Load-Bearing WallsPerspective 2: Looking Through13. Wagering Wisely14. A Window to See ThroughPerspective 3: Stepping In15. "But I Still Can't Believe! Now What?"16. Practicing Your Way through DoubtEpilogue: Praying with the Dead

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Book Synopsis★ Publishers Weekly starred review "A top-notch Christian look at immigration, humane and full of heart."--Publishers Weekly Many American Christians have good intentions, working hard to welcome immigrants with hospitality and solidarity. But how can we do that in a way that empowers our immigrant neighbors rather than pushing them to the fringes of white-dominant culture and keeping them as outsiders? That's exactly the question Karen González explores in Beyond Welcome. A Guatemalan immigrant, González draws from the Bible and her own experiences to examine why the traditional approach to immigration ministries and activism is at best incomplete and at worst harmful. By advocating for putting immigrants in the center of the conversation, González helps readers grow in discipleship and recognize themselves in their immigrant neighbors. Accessible to any Christian who is called to serve immigrants, this book equips readers to take action to dismantle white supremacy and xenophobia in the church. They will emerge with new insight into our shared humanity and need for belonging and liberation.Table of ContentsContentsIntroductionPart 1: Words and Myths1. Strangers in a Strange Land: The Myth of Assimilation2. The Scarlet Cord and the Myth of the Good Immigrant3. Russian for Beginners: Words MatterPart 2: The Bible and Belonging4. Reading the Bible: Interpretations Have Consequences5. Mi Casa Es Su Casa: The Hospitality of Jesus6. The Land before (Western) Time: A Theology of BelongingPart 3: Dignity and Departures7. Departures: People on the Move8. Ethical Storytelling: Disrupting the Narrative9. The Kin-dom Where Everyone Belongs

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Book SynopsisA talented teacher unpacks the riches of traditional Christian spirituality for Christians burdened by the guilt and anxiety of introspective, in-my-heart spiritual techniques. Phillip Cary explains that knowing God is a gradual, long-term process that comes through the gospel experienced in Christian community. The first edition has sold over 17,000 copies. The expanded edition includes a new afterword that offers further insights since the first edition was published over ten years ago.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: Why Trying to Be Christian Makes Us Anxious1. Why You Don't Have to Hear God's Voice in Your HeartOr, How God Really Speaks Today2. Why You Don't Have to Believe Your Intuitions Are the Holy SpiritOr, How the Spirit Shapes Our Hearts3. Why You Don't Have to "Let God Take Control"Or, How Obedience Is for Responsible Adults4. Why You Don't Have to "Find God's Will for Your Life"Or, How Faith Seeks Wisdom5. Why You Don't Have to Be Sure You Have the Right MotivationsOr, How Love Seeks the Good6. Why You Don't Have to Worry about Splitting Head from HeartOr, How Thinking Welcomes Feeling7. Why You Don't Have to Keep Getting Transformed All the TimeOr, How Virtues Make a Lasting Change in Us8. Why You Don't Always Have to Experience JoyOr, How God Vindicates the Afflicted9. Why "Applying It to Your Life" Is BoringOr, How the Gospel Is Beautiful10. Why Basing Faith on Experience Leads to a Post-Christian FutureOr, How Christian Faith Needs Christian TeachingConclusion: How the Gospel of Christ Is Good for UsAfterword to the Second Edition

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