Criticism and exegesis of sacred texts Books

Book SynopsisRomans is Paul's most thorough presentation of the good news he preached. Writing to a church he had not yet met, Paul lets them know that both Jews and Gentiles need to be rescued from death, and the crucified and risen Jesus is the Savior they need. In Romans Verse by Verse, Grant R. Osborne shows readers what Romans meant to its original audience and what it means today. Throughout, he keeps scholarly discussions in the background so he can shine a light on the text itself in a way that non-scholars can understand.The Osborne New Testament Commentary Series is a set of commentaries on every New Testament book for people who are looking for a straightforward explanation of the text. In them, today's readers gain fuller access to the riches of each book from a master teacher who loves God's Word.

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Book SynopsisLarry W. Hurtado has been one of the leading scholars on early Christology for decades. In Honoring the Son: Jesus in Earliest Christian Devotional Practice, Hurtado helps readers understand early Christology by examining not just what early Christians believed or wrote about Jesus, but what their devotional practices tell us about the place of Jesus in early Christian worship. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of early Christian origins and scholarship on New Testament Christology, Hurtado examines the distinctiveness of early Christian worship by comparing it to both Jewish worship patterns and worship practices within the broader Roman--era religious environment. He argues that the inclusion of the risen Jesus alongside the Father in early Christian devotional practices was a distinct and unique religious phenomenon within its ancient context. Additionally, Hurtado demonstrates that this remarkable development was not invented decades after the resurrection of Christ as some scholars once claimed. Instead, the New Testament suggests that Jesus--followers, very quickly after the resurrection of Christ, began to worship the Son alongside the Father. Honoring the Son offers a look into the worship habits of the earliest Christians to understand the place of Jesus in early Christian devotion.

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Book SynopsisA rich and satisfying commentary on Malachi that unfolds its powerful message. Since Malachi deals with topics such as money, marriage, worship, and the love of God, contemporary Christians can learn much from this ancient book. In addition to commenting on the book of Malachi, this volume shows how to develop biblical expositions from a solid exegetical analysis of the text. "I have chosen the book of Malachi," writes the author, "because it is short and can be easily expounded in a short series, and because it has a good variety of forms and constructions that provide test cases for a practicum in exegesis. But most of all, because the messages recorded here are needed just as much today as in Malachi's day."

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Book SynopsisHow does God respond to trauma in a world full of horrors? Beyond their physical and emotional toll, the horrors of this world raise difficult theological and existential questions. Where is God in the darkest moments of the human experience? Is there any hope for recovery from the trauma generated by these horrors? There are no easy answers to these questions. In God of All Comfort, Scott Harrower addresses these questions head on. Using the Gospel of Matthew as a backdrop, he argues for a Trinitarian approach to horrors, showing how God—in his triune nature—reveals himself to those who have experienced trauma. He explores the many ways God relates restoratively with humanity, showing how God's light shines through the darkness of trauma.

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Book Synopsis"Ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it." (Jeremiah 6:16) In Walking the Ancient Path, distinguished Old Testament scholar Walter C. Kaiser, Jr. draws on a lifetime of study to illuminate the book of Jeremiah for a contemporary audience. Following an introduction that surveys the historical and literary background of Jeremiah along with its theological emphases, Kaiser examines each verse of the text, explaining its meaning and significance. Every section is followed by devotional and application insights that guide the reader in applying the text to their everyday lives. Bibliographies in each section provide resources for further study, and most textual and linguistic matters are discussed in footnotes. Pastors, scholars, and serious students of the Bible will find this volume indispensable for understanding Jeremiah's message and how to apply it today.

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Book SynopsisIn this volume from the Evangelical Exegetical Commentary, Paul Tanner argues that the book of Daniel is the Old Testament blueprint of the Bible's overarching eschatological narrative. Tanner examines key aspects of the book of Daniel such as the revelation of Israel's future in relation to gentile kingdoms, God's exaltation of Daniel as a channel through whom he reveals his will and God's sovereign control of the nations under whom Israel is being disciplined. Tanner provides exegetical insight to help readers better understand not only how God worked in Israel's history through Daniel, but how he sovereignly directs all of world history—for all time.

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Book SynopsisWalking in the footsteps of the Apostles. The Lexham Geographic Commentary on Acts through Revelation puts readers in the sandals of the Apostles as they travel throughout the Mediterranean, explaining the geographical setting for the spread of Christianity in the first century. Geography is a central concern throughout the writings of Paul and the Apostles, but the full significance of its geographical context is easily overlooked without a familiarity with the places, the types of transportation, the relative distances, and the travel conditions around the ancient Mediterranean. Luke's account mentions places from all over the known world, and Paul's missionary travels covered an estimated 15,000 miles by land and sea. The Lexham Geographic Commentary gives you insight into the importance of all of these locations--both culturally and spatially--and provides a deeper understanding of the spread of early Christianity.

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Book SynopsisPursuing the glory of God The book of Nehemiah highlights the priorities God's people should pursue and the principles needed to fulfill their mission. Bridging the gap between devotional and technical commentaries, Nehemiah: A Pastoral and Exegetical Commentary is an easy to understand exposition of this often overlooked Old Testament narrative. With a mixture of historical data and practical applications, T. J. Betts emphasizes the relevance of Nehemiah's message for believers today.

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Book SynopsisA guide for reading and understanding difficult New Testament verses. While the core message of the New Testament is clear, there are often puzzling, alarming, or confusing things we encounter when we get into the details of the text. Murray J. Harris, veteran scholar and translator, is an ideal guide through these complicated passages. In Navigating Tough Texts, he clearly and concisely provides exegetical insights to over one hundred tricky New Testament verses that have implications for theology, apologetics, mission, and the Christian life. Navigating Tough Texts is an indispensable resource for pastors, students, and curious Christians who want to be better readers of the many important--and often confusing--New Testament passages.

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Book SynopsisIsaiah's servant songs reveal a true and better Adam In Charged with the Glory of God, Caroline Batchelder provides a synchronic, theological, and canonical reading of the four Servant Songs in Isaiah (42:1–9; 49:1–13; 50:3–11; 52:13–53:12), showing how they relate to one another and the message of the prophetic book. Reading Isaiah as a compositional unity in conversation with other texts such as Genesis results in a coherent presentation of the mysterious servant. The polemic against idolatry reveals rebellious Israel to be false imagers of God. In contrast, Isaiah's servant is an ideal embodiment of Yahweh's image and likeness. Thus, the servant is a paradigm for those who wish to recapture and realize God's good creation purposes for all humanity. The servant poems are not only a call to reorient oneself as a servant towards God and his creation, but also a map and means for doing so. In this study, Batchelder offers fresh insights from Isaiah for understanding God's true image and its idolatrous counterfeits.

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Book SynopsisHow to read Revelation rightly. Let's face it: the book of Revelation is difficult to read! Many neglect it, leaving it to the experts or the obsessed. Others fixate on the details, focusing on current events but missing Christ in the process. But Revelation promises a blessing on all who read it. Why is it so hard to understand? In Reading the Book of Revelation, Alexander E. Stewart offers five simple keys that unlock this difficult book. He then illustrates their profit in explaining Revelation chapter by chapter and provides recommendations for further study. With this short and accessible guide, readers will see how Revelation is approachable, applicable to their lives, and glorifying to Christ.

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Book SynopsisA classic study now available in EnglishFirst appearing in 1885, Schlatter's Der Glaube im Neuen Testament (Faith in the New Testament) is a thorough analysis of the concept of faith. Taking into account Old Testament, rabbinic, and key first-century writings, Schlatter provides an exhaustive study on the meaning and implications of faith in the New Testament. It is a philological masterpiece, making its translation into English a great contribution to New Testament theological studies. This fresh translation retains the substance and style of his original work, giving a new audience direct access to Schlatter's work. Schlatter's rigorous thought remains invaluable today.

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Book SynopsisRead / Mark / Learn is a small group Bible study series that is designed to equip people to study God’s Word for themselves.In an era that claims that the Bible can say what you want it to say, it is important to re–establish the truth that you just can’t – if you explain the Scripture with honesty, fairness and in context. Each study establishes the context, aim, structure and lessons of the passage. It also shows links with the Old Testament and practical applications and suggestions. There are also conversational discussion starters and suggested questions for leading a Bible study.Trade ReviewRead Mark Learn has taught hundreds of us over the years to know our Bibles and our God better. -- Hugh Palmer (Rector, All Souls Langham Place, London)This series on Luke's Gospel will assist individuals and groups to understand what this part of the Bible is saying and the difference it makes to the lives of God's people. Behind these brief notes lies a patient, serious wrestling with the text by one who knows that God's word is good. -- Mark D. Thompson (Principal, Moore Theological College, New South Wales, Australia)Many colorful words describe this book. To name just ten: practical, scholarly, whimsical, logical, shrewd, humorous, insightful, creative, thoughtful, gripping. But best of all it is true to the text and intent of Luke’s Gospel and its focal point, Jesus Christ. Davis wonderfully combines a scholar’s skills and wisdom with a storyteller’s knack and a pastoral heart. The reader will learn Luke’s Gospel afresh, see details from fresh angles, and be better equipped to grasp its message, grow in faith, and share this good news with others. -- Robert W. Yarbrough (Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri)Brimming with insightful exegesis, theological depth, vivid illustration and pastoral application, these two volumes are vintage Dale Ralph Davis. Whether you use them in personal devotion, or a small group, or as a preacher seeking to teach your congregation, this engaging journey through Luke’s gospel will be a very useful and edifying guide. -- Reuben Hunter (Pastor, Trinity West Church, London)This volume arose out of the regular preaching ministry at St Helen's Bishopsgate, London, and its homiletical genesis is often apparent. The rising tendency to leverage sermons into material for small group study is wholly salutary, and this is a wonderful and helpful example of its kind. I hope it circulates widely. -- D. A. Carson (Emeritus Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, Illinois)This volume feeds the most knowledgeable Bible student, splendidly prepares the group leader, and challenges and edifies group members in the great truths revealed in Luke's gospel. I will be recommending it to our Theological College students! -- Archie Poulos (Head of Ministry Department, Moore College, Sydney)Dive in, devour and delight in the wisdom offered in this essential resource for developing a thoughtful and biblical Christianity. In particular, this Luke edition balances sharp theological insight with precise invitations for discipleship and growth. -- Daniel Montgomery (Founder and CEO of Leadership Reality and author of ‘Leadership Mosaic’ and ‘How to be Present in an Absent World’)These notes help us understand each passage clearly in light of the whole revelation of God in Scripture. While aimed primarily at Bible Study leaders, there is much to be learned here by preachers as well as those engaging in a personal study of Luke's Gospel. -- Andrew Cheah (Dean of St Mary's Anglican Cathedral Contemporary, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)These studies are clear and concise - thoughtful and thorough. They pulsate with Luke's original purpose so evidently that each study is faithful to God's word and strongly application driven. I have no doubt that God will use them widely around the world to build up His church. -- Denesh Divyanathan (Founding Pastor of The Crossing Church in Singapore and President of Project Timothy, Singapore)These books are thorough, sound and Christ-centred. Though focused on a particular section of Scripture, they also present an overall view of the Bible. Old Testament connections to what is happening in Jesus' ministry are brought out as you go through Luke's Gospel. The book is intended for small group leaders or anyone ready for a fairly serious study. Readers will come out with a sound basic understanding of Luke and its place in God's redemptive programme. Taylor avoids any secondary issues and sticks to the main thrusts of each passage. On the whole, this is a good book and comes warmly recommended. -- Dennis Hill, Evangelical TimesThis series of books is superb for personal study, and for helping those who teach the Bible to others. I've been getting a lot to give away to others now. The level is accessible, the reasoning clear, the application careful. Faithful and concise, never missing the big picture. Excellent. -- Mark Dever (Senior Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church and President, 9Marks.org, Washington, DC)

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Book SynopsisThe three apostles Peter, Paul and John are the most important starting point for understanding the beginnings of Christianity. Each brings a different background and language: Peter's Old Testament imagery, Paul's connection with Greek culture, and John's independent lyricism.This fascinating book paints a vivid picture of the three, exploring what they had in common as well as their significant differences, and demonstrating their continuing relevance today. The authors start by discussing the pre-Christian context, and finish by tracing the esoteric streams of Petrine, Pauline and Johannine Christianity in the first few centuries after Christ. They show above all that all three are needed to truly approach the reality of Jesus Christ.Trade Review'The three authors combine academic thoroughness with a lively capacity to enter imaginatively into their theme, be it the personality of leading figures in the early Christian milieu, or the socio-religious circumstances of those times. The text is accessible and at times has the power to evoke clearly that period of our collective past, which has fashioned us so particularly to be the types of human beings we are today.'-- Camphill Correspondence'A very convenient summary of much of the early development of Christianity... The collaboration of the 'three authors' works well, for each has his or her own voice, and they admit to not necessarily agreeing with everything each has written, whilst respecting the different approaches. One can only marvel that so much history still has relevance today, as the authors make clear.'-- THE ANTHROPOSOPHICAL SOCIETY IN GREAT BRITAIN

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Book SynopsisThe three New Testament letters of John are concerned with the development and well-being of the early Christian congregations. They share the significance of Christ's incarnation and his unique sacrifice, urging the churches to continue to seek God. Although written in the first century, the letters remain a source of wisdom and inspiration for people today. Respected Christian Community priest Roger Druitt offers a new translation of the letters alongside a thought-provoking commentary, which includes both the historical and cultural background to the letters and insightful studies on key aspects such as righteousness, love and truth. Throughout, the author illuminates the truly modern character of the letters, showing how they speak to a universal vision of humanity.Trade Review'A valuable addition to the literature.'-- Paradigm ExplorerTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction The three Letters and three wordsTranslation of the Letters of JohnNote The First Letter of John The Second Letter of John The Third Letter of John Commentary1. Orientation Background; John; John the beloved disciple; John and the Apocalypse2. Detail The work of Redemption: love and the Holy Trinity; The four parts of the human being and their healing; The fourfold human being and the four stages of the ministry; The transformation of the fourfold human being3. Fellowship: the Union of God and Humanity 4. John’s approach to Knowing 5. Significant Words Abide; Righteousness; Love; Truth; Grace; Mercy; Peace; Commandment and sinEpilogue

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Book SynopsisThese helpful guides in the Cover to Cover series are ideal for group and individual study. Experience the reality of Bible events like never before and live through the inspiring lives of key characters in Scripture. Learn how to apply God's Word to your life as you explore seven compelling sessions and gain a new depth in your Bible knowledge.An exploration into what it means to live in the divine plan for human sexualityThe Song of Songs – a Hebraic way of saying 'best song of all' – is a collection of erotic love poems between a wife and her husband, and is an unapologetic celebration of intimacy within the context of Christian marriage. In his reading of the poem, John Houghton explains how, whether married or single, this book of the Bible gives us something truly awesome to celebrate and proclaim.These seven insightful sessions help us to consider: That sex and sexuality are a God-given part of His good creation, not a consequence of the FallThe place and outworking of love and intimacy within Christian marriage, and the strengthening of the relationship through thisBiblically, our true identity is defined by relationshipIcebreakers, Bible readings, eye openers, discussion starters, personal application make this a rich resource for group or individual study.

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Book SynopsisThe question that Paul set before the ancient church in Corinth - Do you not recognize that Jesus Christ is in and among you? (2 Cor. 13:5) - remains a critical question for the church today. This commentary by Mark Seifrid seeks to hear Paul's message afresh and communicate it to our time. Seifrid offers a unified reading of 2 Corinthians, which has often been regarded as a composite of excerpts and fragments. He argues that Paul's message is directed at the 'practical atheism' of the Corinthian church - the hidden heresy that assumes God's saving work in the world may be measured by outward standards of success and achievement. Like all of the Pillar volumes, Seifrid's commentary on 2 Corinthians offers careful grammatical analysis and exegesis with clear pastoral application.

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Book SynopsisThe book of Psalms is the heart of the Old Testament, the libretto of the most vibrant worship imaginable. It informs our intellect, stimulates our imagination, arouses our emotions and stirs us to holy thoughts and actions. It is also a pivotal witness to, and anticipation of, Jesus Christ. Tremper Longman's commentary interprets each psalm in its Old Testament setting, summarizes its message and reflects on its significance from a New Testament perspective, noting any citation and also providing a Christological reading.

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Book SynopsisThese commentaries are designed to help the reader of the Bible understand what the text says and what it means. The Introduction to each book gives a concise but thorough treatment of its authorship, date, original setting and purpose. Following a structural Analysis, the Commentary takes the book section by section, drawing out its main themes, and also comments on individual verses and problems of interpretation. Additional Notes provide fuller discussion of particular difficulties. In the new Old Testament volumes, the commentary on each section of the text is structured under three headings: Context, Comment and Meaning. The goal is to explain the true meaning of the Bible and make its message plain. THE SONG OF SONGS This Old Testament book, 'the best of songs', has fascinated and perplexed interpreters for centuries. We hear the passionate melody of romantic love, and are confronted by erotic imagery - but whose love is described? Is it a couple's love for each other, God's love for his people, or a poem that speaks to love in all its dimensions? Iain Duguid's commentary explains how the Song is designed to show us an idealized picture of married love, in the context of a fallen and broken world. It also convicts us of how far short of this perfection we fall, both as humans and as lovers, and drives us repeatedly into the arms of our true heavenly husband, Jesus Christ.

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Book SynopsisAnyone who has been through Sunday school can tell you that Jesus walked on water, fed the 5,000 and told a parable about a sower. Is there really much more to it than that? Aren't the Gospels supposed to be the "easy" bits of the Bible? Using Mark as a worked example, Andrew and Tim follow 'the most important things that have ever happened in the history of the world'. They help us see "a diagnosis of the human condition more perceptive than that offered by any physician, politician, philosopher or psychiatrist". They point to a solution that touches in the same moment both the horrors of hell and the glory of heaven. We come face to face with the Jesus of the Bible and see how to follow him in a way that utterly transforms our lives. The conviction of the Dig Deeper books is that God wants us to work hard at reading the Bible in order to discover its true meaning, hence the use of 'tools' to dig and dig again. It's an interactive and enjoyable process. Indeed, the authors want to make finding Bible treasure a real possibility for everyone. And to do so with receptive hearts, listening to what the Holy Spirit is saying. 'What a splendid book! A great resource for Bible study leaders and preachers.' - Peter Adam 'This book is a gold mine, not just because of the many rich ideas it contains, but especially because it enables us to discover the treasures of the Gospels... The resulting engagement with the gospel - with Jesus himself - is compelling and life-changing.' - Jonathan Lamb

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Book SynopsisThese commentaries are designed to help the reader of the Bible understand what the text says and what it means. The Introduction to each book gives a concise but thorough treatment of its authorship, date, original setting and purpose. Following a structural Analysis, the Commentary takes the book section by section, drawing out its main themes, and also comments on individual verses and problems of interpretation. Additional Notes provide fuller discussion of particular difficulties. In the new New Testament volumes, the commentary on each section of the text is structured under three headings: Context, Comment and Theology. The goal is to explain the true meaning of the Bible and make its message plain.2 CORINTHIANSPaul's long, complicated history with the Corinthian church culminates in this ardent defence of Christian ministry in general and of his own ministry in particular. Colin G. Kruse provides an insightful analysis that illuminates Paul's contrast of the old and new covenants and his eloquent exposition of the ministry of reconciliation. He also charts a clear, plausible course through the maze of the literary history of Paul's correspondence with the Corinthian Christians.

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Book SynopsisThe book of Revelation is the most developed example of a scriptural writer wrestling with the ideological implications of the gospel, and engaging with an opposing system in the light of what God has done in Jesus. It is an apocalypse, a letter and a prophecy. Ian Paul gives disciplined attention to the text, examines how John draws on the Old Testament, indicates how his message would have communicated and been understood in its first-century context, and makes connections with our contemporary world.

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Book SynopsisMany of us find the Old testament daunting. It seems long and very distant. If the Old Testament is unknown territory to you, here's just the book to get you into it. Alec Motyer leads us through six key themes of the Old Testament, history, religion, worship, prophecy, wisdom and God himself. Each chapter shows with simplicity and warmth how important these themes are to the Old Testament, and how relevant they are to our lives today. At the end of each chapter the are seven short daily readings with crisp, practical comments, designed to help you explore that chapter's theme for yourself. Read through this book with your Old Testament in front of you and you will be amazed how it speaks directly to us today in our situations and our needs. The Scenic Route is a journey well worth taking. "Alec Motyer proves again his faithfulness and reliability as a guide to the world of the Old Testament. The daily devotional Bible readings and notes make this useful for personal or group study and will provide readers not only with a good introduction to the Old Testament but also an opportunity to encounter the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Chris SinkinsonTrade ReviewHighly recommended. * Evangelical Times’ website *

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Few biblical topics are as important as mission. Mission is linked inextricably to humanity's sinfulness and need for redemption, and to God's provision of salvation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This 'good news' of salvation must be made known. The saving mission of Jesus constitutes the foundation for Christian mission, and the Christian gospel is its message. This second edition of Salvation to the Ends of the Earth emphasizes the way in which the Bible presents a continuing narrative of the story of God’s mission – ranging from the story of Israel to the story of Jesus and that of the early Christians. At the same time, importantly, it provides a robust historical and chronological backbone to the unfolding of the early Christian mission. With regard to the latter, Paul and the General Epistles are incorporated with the Gospel with which they have the closest and most natural canonical and historical affinity: James and Hebrews with Matthew; 1 – 2 Peter and Jude with Mark; Paul’s letters with Luke–Acts; and 1 – 3 John and the Apocalypse with John. The chapter on the second-temple period has been moved to an appendix so as not to interrupt the flow of the presentation of the biblical story-line and theology of mission.

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Book SynopsisProverbs - a book full of wisdom, and yet a book demanding all one's wisdom to understand. Derek Kidner has not only provided a running commentary on the whole of Proverbs, but has also included two helpful study aids: a set of subject guides that brings together teaching scattered throughout the book, and a short concordance that helps to locate lost sayings (in territory notoriously hard to search) and encourages further subject studies. In short, this volume is a wise person's guide to wisdom.

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Book SynopsisThe cosmopolitan city of Corinth was the site of one of the apostle Paul’s greatest evangelistic successes. However, the church he founded was full of contention, ranging from questions about leadership to incest. Some Christians were taking fellow believers to court. There were issues concerning marriage, celibacy, food offered to idols, public worship and spiritual gifts. In response, Paul offered some of his most profound thinking on the body of Christ, love, and Jesus' cross and resurrection. Thomas Schreiner explains the text of the letter, highlights its major theological themes and offers perspectives on its relevance for today.

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament is full of stories of fascinating couples: couples who live with chronic disappointment; couples who overcome obstacles to be together; a wife who risks death if she walks in on her husband unannounced; and a husband who remains faithful to his wife when she becomes a prostitute. These studies lead you to dig deeply into the Bible to learn important lessons about marriage, God and yourself. With more than 130 titles, the LifeBuilder Bible Studies series delivers sound biblical content and raises thought-provoking questions. It provides a unique Bible study experience for individuals and groups. What should we study next? We have LifeBuilder Bible Studies for . . . NEW TESTAMENT STUDIES NEW TESTAMENT BOOKS Parables Acts Sermon on the Mount Romans The ‘I Am’ Sayings of Christ 1 Corinthians The Lord’s Prayer 2 Corinthians The Jesus Paul Knew Galatians Seven Letters to Seven Churches Ephesians Philippians NEW TESTAMENT CHARACTERS Colossians & Philemon Paul Thessalonians Peter Hebrews The Twelve Disciples 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus Women of the New Testament James New Testament Characters 1 & 2 Peter and Jude John’s Letters Revelation

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Book SynopsisJesus made some sweeping claims for himself - outrageous but true! This study guide examines the 'I am' statements, mainly from the Gospel of John. But the eight sessions go beyond a study of ancient words to a consideration of how these claims can transform our lives today. What does it mean for Jesus to say he is the Bread of Life? That he is the Light? What do these dramatic claims tell us about the power and character of Jesus? And how might that impact our lives each day? The study guide is produced in a useful workbook format and includes helpful notes for group leaders.

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Book SynopsisDo you ever feel powerless? It was not always so for the people of the early church. Jesus transformed their lives--and they changed the world! Acts is the extraordinary record of what these early Christian disciples did. The power that you see in action in this book is the same power that can transform your life. As Phyllis J. Le Peau leads you through the pages of Acts, you will begin to understand what the Holy Spirit can do in you and in the world. This revised Life Builder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection. Included are expanded leader's notes and a "Now and Later" section in each study.

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Book SynopsisJesus had about three years to mould a dozen fearful and faithless men into the pillars of a worldwide movement. As we study how Jesus made disciples we can expect to grow as disciples, and we can expect to hear a new call in our lives to follow Christ with a whole heart. Then we can expect to be sent out into the world to make disciples of all nations – including into our workplace and neighbourhood.

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Book SynopsisDo angels have wings and fly? Do they protect us from accidents? Will we become angels? Stories featuring angels are becoming increasingly popular. Angels are a hot commodity! This study shows what the Bible says about God's angels and fallen angels. New Testament writers confirm their existence, and Jesus himself referred to angels as real beings involved in every realm of human activity. 8 studies for individuals or groups. Session 1 covers Isaiah 6; Session 2 Angels among us discusses Genesis 18,19; Session 3 Jesus and the angels visits Hebrews 1; Other sessions cover The battle against us; Angels and guidance; Guarded by angels; the last session is entitled Discerning the spirits and examines part of 1 John Chapter 14.

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The Psalms show us how to relate to God as we pray our doubt, fears and anger. They show us how to respond to God in praise. Here we find the best place to explore who we are and what God means to us. 12 studies for individuals or groups.This revised LifeBuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra "Now or Later" section in each study.The first three sessions cover Psalms 1-3; Session 4: Psalm 8; Session 5: Psalm 51; Session 6: Psalm 103; Session 7: Psalm 23; Session 8: Psalm 137; Session 9: Psalm 6; Session 10: Psalm 73; Session 11: Psalm 90 and Session 12: Psalm 150.

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Book SynopsisIn every age people have felt sure that the book of Revelation described events in their time. As nations arm themselves for war, we think of Armageddon. As evil rulers grow in power, we look for the antichrist. As the powers of darkness threaten to overwhelm us, we cry, 'Come, Lord Jesus!' Amid the uncertainties of our age, Revelation assures us of the ultimate triumph of God. This revised Lifebuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra 'Now or Later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisEach of us is unique. And each one of us has been invited by God to participate in his kingdom work. Yet many times we hesitate to serve, uncertain of our gifts and of God's purpose for our life. In these studies we learn how to recognise our own spiritual gifts as well as those of others, and how to practically use them to glorify God in our relationships, our work and the world. Eight studies for individuals and small groups. The best-selling Lifebuilders series have helped millions of people dig deeper into the Bible, individually and in small groups. There are questions for stimulating group discussions, ideas for meeting God in personal reflection, and a now or later section in the revised format.Session 1 covers 1 Corinthians 12; Session 2 Ephesians 4:1-16; Session 3 Romans 12:1-13; and also 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22; Session 4 studies 1 Corinthians 14:1-33; Session 5: Isaiah 61:1-9 and Luke 4:14-21; Session 6 Galatians 5:16-26; Session 7 Exodus part of chapters 31,35 and 36. The last Session 8 examines Acts 2.

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Book SynopsisLove, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. To be spiritually mature is to show the fruit of the Spirit in Christ in our lives. These nine New and Old Testament passages highlighting each quality will allow the Spirit's fruit to ripen in our lives. This revised LifeBuilder Bible study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra 'now or later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisIn the book of Mark we meet Jesus, the man who is king. He shatters our expectations. He comes to serve and not to be served. He eats with sinners rather than royalty. And his crown is made of thorns. This is the one who calls us to follow him. This revised Lifebuilder Bible Study has new questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection as well as expanded leader's notes and an extra 'Now or Later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisCan I be honest with God when I pray? If we look at the Old Testament, the answer is surely yes. From the exuberant praise of Moses and Miriam to the desperate cries of Jeremiah, the First Testament is rich with heartfelt prayers to our Father. These eight studies from Lynne M. Baab, based on prayers from seven Old Testament books, invite you to meet our mighty, loving God in fresh ways, bringing all of who you are to him.

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Book SynopsisMore. Better. Quicker. Richer. Are the values of our consumer society invading the church? Are we looking for overnight success in following Jesus? For instant godliness? Discipline is not a popular word today, but the disciplined Christian life produces a depth that is life-enhancing, bringing joy and freedom. Christian Disciplines looks not only at the foundational disciplines of the Christian life – the ‘quiet time’, prayer, worship and Bible study – but other crucial disciplines such as evangelism, giving, social justice, managing time and gifts, mission.

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Book SynopsisHis majesty will fill our thoughts. His love will soften our hearts. His holiness will purify our lives. When we meet God, we will be changed. In this guide, bestselling author JI Packer leads us through twelve key passages from both the Old and New Testaments which will enlarge our vision of the God we worship and serve.

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Book SynopsisLife among Christians can be great. But let's face it - it can also be exasperating! The joys of fellowship too often give way to division and debate - arguments over such things as the correct form of worship and the place of the charismatic gifts. In 1 Corinthians we see Christianity not as it was meant to be but as it often is. Yet we also find practical advice for overcoming the challenges of life together. This revised Lifebuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra "Now or Later" section in each study.

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