Criticism and exegesis of sacred texts Books

Book SynopsisA key issue in Christianity is the nature of works or obedience or faithfulness in the Christian life. While evangelicals can generally agree that one enters into a covenant relationship with God by grace (even solely by grace) apart from works, there is often much more disagreement over how to construe the nature of works, or obedience, inside this covenantal relationship. From a close study of key Old and New Testament texts, Bradley Green shows that in the new covenant, works or obedience will be a God-elicited, real and necessary part of Christian life.

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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.JAMESThe letter of James has often been defined in terms of moral earnestness, repentance and consistent social action, leading many to argue that it is not theological. This separation between theology and practice, Douglas J. Moo observes, can all too easily lead people to read Scripture as a book to be analysed rather than a message to be obeyed - the very mindset against which James inveighs. Moo's exposition of these themes illuminates James's rich letter and its message for us today.

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Book SynopsisOn the surface, the book of Ruth tells the tale of an unlikely marriage between a destitute Moabite widow and an upstanding citizen of a Judean village. The deeper import of the story, however, has to do with the internal boundaries that define the people of God. Is Israel a closed community, held together exclusively by bonds of kinship, or a nation that welcomes faithful outsiders into its sphere of belonging? Ruth appropriates marriage as the symbolic vehicle of a transformation in Israel's self-understanding - from a community articulated by Naomi's declaration that her daughters-in-law marry within their own people, to the acclamations by the people of Bethlehem that endorse Boaz's marriage to a Moabite. L. Daniel Hawk undertakes a detailed narrative analysis of Ruth that goes beyond the description of its content and stylistic features to illumine its deep structure and use of metaphor. Informed by contemporary studies on ethnicity, he discovers a work of remarkable sophistication that employs a story of intermarriage to address opposing ideas of Israelite identity. Hawk's meticulous attention to patterned structures, stylistic devices and characterization reveals the strategy by which the narrator constructs a vision of Israel that looks beyond rigid internal boundaries to the welcome of faithful foreigners as agents of blessing.

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Book Synopsis6 Studies for individual and small groups from the 2016 Keswick Convention

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Book SynopsisAndrew Abernathy employs the concept of 'kingdom' as an entry point for organising Isaiah's major themes. Four features frame Abernathy study: God, the King; the lead agents of the King; the realm of the Kingdom and the people of the King. While his primary aim is to show how 'kingdom' is fundamental to Isaiag whenh understood within its Old Testament context, interspersed canonical reflections assist those who are wrestling with how to read Isaiah as Christian Scripture in, and for, the Church. Content: Series Preface Author's Preface Abbreviations Introduction 1. God, the king now and to come in Isaiah 1-39 2. God, the only saving king in Isaiah 40-55 3. God, the warrior, international, and compassionate king in Isaiah 56-66 4. The lead agents of the King 5. The realm and the people of God's Kingdom Conclusion Bibliography Index of Authors Index of scripture referencesTrade ReviewIn a well-written and remarkably comprehensive treatment, Dr Andrew Abernethy takes us through the book by unfolding the way God and his kingdom are presented in each of the three major sections of the prophecy, and then by outlining the way this reigning God uses agents to accomplish his purpose. Dr Abernethy undertakes all of this exegetical and theological exploration with an eye peeled for the way New Testament writers, seven centuries later, pick up on these trajectories to bring us to Christ * D. A. Carson *

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament is part of the canon of Christian Scripture and, as such, has continuing significance for the church. However, the writings are set within a different historical era, a different culture and a different religious context. To understand the Old Testament in a meaningful way, it must be read against its historical, cultural and theological background. Here, Robin Routledge enables readers to engage with the text. He discusses: - date, authorship, the writers’ intention and purpose, and significant textual issues - key scholarly approaches to the text, including historical-critical and literary approaches To help us comprehend and interpret the Old Testament, and so apply it to current belief and praxis, Routledge includes an overview of exegetical and hermeneutical approaches. He also offers some guidance through the maze of new treatments and terminology. The volume provides specific introductions to the sections and books of the Old Testament, following the canonical order of the Hebrew text. In addition, Routledge notes key distinctive issues and points to sources for further study. The author’s hope is that this volume will not only aid students but will also benefit others who want to take the Old Testament seriously, and to apply its message to the life and ministry of the church today. ‘Scholarly and lucid, Old Testament Introduction is designed especially for those who want to understand how to read the Old Testament as Christian Scripture, while doing justice to its nuances and enormous diversity. I commend it warmly.’ Gordon McConville, Professor of Old Testament Theology, University of GloucestershireTrade ReviewRobin Routledge has now produced an invaluable companion volume to his highly successful Old Testament Theology. He gives a comprehensive orientation to all the dimensions of the study of the Old Testament, including canon, text, criticism and forms of interpretation, as well as an in-depth treatment of each individual book, and extensive bibliographical resources. Scholarly and lucid, it is designed especially for those who want to understand how to read the Old Testament as Christian Scripture, while doing justice to its nuances and enormous diversity. I commend it warmly. * Gordon McConville, Professor of Old Testament Theology, University of Gloucestershire *This easy-to-read scholarly work is at just the right level for theological students and all serious pupils of the Bible. * New Life newspaper *an excellent contribution to evangelical scholarship * The European Journal of Theology *well-structured and an easy read * Expository Times *

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Book SynopsisLau and Goswell examine Ruth in its canonical context, including the wider Old Testament and the New Testament, and study selected themes including redemption, kingship, mission, kindness, wisdom, famine, and the hiddenness of God.Trade ReviewPeter Lau and Greg Goswell … read Ruth in the context of its nearest Old Testament books (‘nearest’ both culturally and historically), and then in the context of the entire Christian canon. There can be little doubt that pastors committed to expository preaching and who choose to work their way through Ruth will gladly stand on the shoulders of Drs Lau and Goswell * D. A. Carson *provides many helpful, insightful comments * Expository Times *

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Book SynopsisThe Old Testament, particularly the Former Prophets, has frequently been regarded as having a negative attitude towards foreigners. This has meant that these texts are often employed by those opposed to the Christian faith to attack the Bible; and such views can be echoed by Christians. While the story of David and Goliath is cherished, other episodes are seen to involve 'ethnic cleansing' or 'massacre' and are avoided. David Firth's contention is that this view emerges from an established interpretation of the text, but not the text itself. He argues that the Former Prophets subvert the exclusivist approach in order to show that the people of God are not defined by ethnicity but rather by their willingness to commit themselves to the purposes of Yahweh. God's purposes are always wider than Israel alone, and Israel must therefore understand themselves as a people who welcome and include the foreigner. Firth addresses contemporary concerns about the ongoing significance of the Old Testament for Christians, and shows how opponents of Christianity have misunderstood the Bible. His reading of the Former Prophets also has significant ethical implications for Christians today as they wrestle with the issues of migration and what it means to be the people of God.Trade ReviewDavid Firth carefully traces out what can be learned of the ways in which foreigners were viewed in the Former Prophets. Along the way he draws attention to surprises: a foreign prostitute like Rahab becomes an Israelite, and an Israelite like Achan is cut off from the Israelites. Tracing the trajectories, Dr Firth opens up biblical texts that are not as widely known as some passages, and drops tantalizing hints about the ultimate canonical move to the notion of God's people drawn from every tongue, tribe, people, and nation. * D. A. Carson, Research Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, USA *

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Book SynopsisThere are many investigations of the Old Testament priests and the New Testament’s appropriation of such imagery to describe Jesus Christ. There are also studies of Israel’s corporate priesthood and what this means for the priesthood of God’s new covenant people. However, such studies are less frequently connected with one another: key interrelations are missed, and key questions are not addressed. Making two passes across the tapestry of Scripture, Andrew Malone traces these two threads and their intersections, with an eye to the contemporary relevance of both themes in both Testaments. Malone shows how our Christology and perseverance as God’s people are enhanced by the way the book of Hebrews depicts Christ’s own priesthood. Furthermore, Christians better understand their corporate identity and mission by discerning both the ministry of individual Old Testament priests and Israel’s corporate calling. Combining the various biblical emphases on priesthood in one place provides synergies that are too easily disregarded.Trade ReviewAlthough there are many studies of priesthood in the Old Testament, and quite a few that examine the development of that theme in the New Testament, not to mention dogmatic studies this side of the Reformation that tease out the implications of ‘the priesthood of all believers,’ there is, as far as I know, no previous book-length canonical study of priesthood. Among the many strengths of Andrew Malone's impressive work, this book fills out both individual and corporate priesthood themes. On the one hand, it traces out the practices and theology of priests who serve in the wider community of the people of God, and on the other it traces out the ways in which the entire covenant community constitute a corporate priesthood. It carefully surveys the voluminous biblical material on the Levitical priesthood, but it does not ignore how the Melchizedekian priesthood intersects with the Levitical priesthood in ways that make sense only where there is a sensitive biblical-theological reading of the data. Priesthood is a theme that not only runs through both Testaments; it is one of the controlling biblical-theological trajectories without which it is difficult to make much sense of the ministry, life, death, resurrection, and ongoing exalted ministry of Jesus Christ. * D. A. Carson *Malone writes clearly and succinctly and his book is worthy of consideration by all in Christian ministry. He models a careful and judicious biblical attention and his conclusions are valid and important. -- The Melbourne Anglican * Bishop Paul Barker *Table of Contents1. Orientation Part 1: God's individual priests 2. The Aaronic priesthood begins 3. Biblical antecedents to the Aaronic priesthood 4. Old Testament prospects 5. New covenant transformations Part 2: God's corporate priesthoods 6. Israel as a kingdom of priests 7. The church's priestly commission 8. Concluding reflections Bibliography

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Book SynopsisThe prophet Hosea lived through the tumultuous final decades of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The assassinations and usurpations within Israel and the instability from the re-invigorated Assyrians culminated eventually in the destruction of Samaria, the ending of the Northern Kingdom, and the exile of many of its people. Hosea's prophetic work took place in the midst of those years, calling the people to faith in God through warnings of judgment and promises of hope. He exposed the infidelity of the people as they turned to other nations, to their own counsels, or to other gods for their life and prosperity. Such turning towards others for what God alone could give them was, in Hosea’s most famous metaphor, 'whoring.' As God's people they needed to reckon with 'their' God, who had through long years showered them with care and grace. For Hosea it was their refusal to 'return' to their Lord that resulted in his bringing judgment upon them in the form of the Assyrian invasion. Joshua Moon sets the prophecies of Hosea in their 8th century BC context. The burden of his commentary is the importance of reading Hosea as Christian Scripture, in which we are meant to hear God’s own voice as he calls his people to himself. Moon demonstrates the ongoing importance of hearing God’s words through Hosea, situating the reading of each section within larger biblical and theological concerns.

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Book SynopsisIn many ways, Proverbs is similar to the wisdom literature of the wider Ancient Near East. However, while the book initially appears to consist primarily of practical advice, it demonstrates that wisdom is grounded in a relationship with God. Lindsay Wilson shows how the first nine chapters provide a reading guide for the many proverbs in subsequent chapters; and how the fear of the Lord, choosing wisdom rather than folly, and having our characters formed by good choices are crucial for understanding Proverbs as Christian Scripture and living out our faith in daily life. Part of the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries series designed to help the reader of the Bible understand what the text says and what it means.

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Book SynopsisOf course the Bible matters. It is God’s word to us. But how do we engage with its message? Tim Chester creates a sense of expectation, causing our reading of the Bible to become a living experience in which we encounter God. Amazingly, this God of the universe speaks to us each day! Here is a personal, clear, intentional and sufficient message for our lives. The Bible is truly unique; it speaks into a myriad of situations and brings us back to the deep joy of the gospel. ‘Will enrich your encounter with God as you engage with his word.’ Elaine Duncan ‘This is more than useful; it’s inspiring.’ Julian Hardyman ‘Tim Chester is one of the clearest, most useful and reliable Christian writers in the UK today . . . He comes alongside the reader to instruct and to apply his teaching to life in the modern world.’ Peter Lewis ‘Inspirational, profound, realistic . . . If you can buy only one book on the Bible, buy this one.’ Tricia Marnham ‘Buy, read, recommend, lend, give away!’ James RobsonTrade Review`Will enrich your encounter with God as you engage with his word.’ Elaine Duncan; `This is more than useful; it’s inspiring.’ Julian Hardyman; `Tim Chester is one of the clearest, most useful and reliable Christian writers in the UK today . . . He comes alongside the reader to instruct and to apply his teaching to life in the modern world.’ Peter Lewis; `Inspirational, profound, realistic . . . If you can buy only one book on the Bible, buy this one.’ Tricia Marnham; `Buy, read, recommend, lend, give away!’ James Robson

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Book SynopsisBy tracing the origins of mission right back to God's character, and then seeing how it unfolds throughout the storyline of the Bible, we begin to understand how important it is to him. As we see his heart for mission and the nations, we are challenged to discover God's plan for us too. Will this change our priorities as individuals and churches? Dare we see our place in God's plan and own the task of reaching the unreached? This practical, thought-provoking and accessible resource is the latest in the popular IVP/Keswick Ministries series of study guides.Table of ContentsContents 1 The Father's love 2 The Son's name 3 The Spirit's power 4 The Bible's story 5 The church's task 6 The cultural challenge 7 The global mandate Summary and leaders' notes

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Book SynopsisWritten by grandparents and expert Bible study authors Phyllis and Andrew T. Le Peau, this LifeGuide Bible study explores the biblical framework for being a godly grandparent. In nine sessions, this study guides you in how to be a loving and caring presence in not only the lives of your grandchildren, but also for your adult children as they parent.

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Book SynopsisSome chose to follow God. Others followed only fame and fortune. They lived through times of difficulty and times of triumph, through political and emotional turmoil, through popularity and through discontent. This ten-session LifeBuilder Bible Study focuses on the character of the Kings of the Old Testament and what we can learn from them. For over three decades LifeBuilder Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought-provoking questions—making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 120 titles on Old and New Testament books, character studies, and topical studies.

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Stephen D. Eyre leads you to explore this story of God's people seeking after him. As you trace their journey, experiencing their forward progress, their detours and their obstacles, you, too, will learn to follow God more closely.

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Book SynopsisDoes the word hospitality bring to mind tables filled with tea, coffee and cake? While offering food to others is a wonderful ministry, this study reveals that the hospitality of the Bible is a deeper, more significant concept. In the Old Testament, hospitality demonstrates the grace and provision of God. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the imagery of a host and his guests to teach about the Kingdom of God, provision and protection. 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.

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Book Synopsis" For to me, to live is Christ" (Philippians 1:21) Many of us may have thought more about Paul's foundational theology than about how Paul learned more about Jesus and what it meant to obey him in the everyday tests of his faith. This ten-session Bible study leads us through the growth in the apostle Paul's knowledge of Jesus and how it changed his life, when at pivotal points he intersected with Jesus. For over three decades the LifeBuilder Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought provoking questions - making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 130 titles on Old and New Testament books, character and topical studies.

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Book SynopsisWhy do you believe that Christianity is true?The best reason is Jesus himself. In these eight studies on passages from the Gospels of Mark and Luke, James W. Sire invites you to meet the unique Jesus by digging deep into the Bible. You’ll discover what Jesus said and did. You’ll also be encouraged to decide what place Jesus has in your life today. 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 a ‘Now or Later’ section in each study.Table of ContentsThere are eight studies of passages from the Gospels of Mark & Luke that look at:- - The Unexpected Jesus. - Jesus the Lover of Sinners - The Sin Jesus Forgives - Jesus the Good Teacher - Jesus and the Father - Jesus the Servant and Saviour - Jesus the Sacrifice - The Resurrection of God

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Book SynopsisGod is loving and powerful. He is able to work against some of the strongest forces of hate in the world. You can imitate God's justice by fighting against these same powers in your own life and in the lives of those around you. Taking a fresh look at this theme throughout Scripture, Bob and Carol Hunter challenge you to love justice as God does. And they show you how to work for justice in your everyday life. 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 a "Now or Later" section in each study.

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Book SynopsisBeginning with Genesis, the Bible is the story of God pursuing his people. In this study guide, you'll explore how God reaches out--through Jesus and through human ambassadors like us. You'll discover that the call to "missions" is not for a select group but is a part of God's call to every Christian. And you'll begin to understand your own part in God's plan. This LifeBuilder Bible Study features questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection. Leader's notes are included with information on study preparation, leading the study and small group components as well as helps for specific Bible passages covered in the study. Presented in a convenient workbook format and featuring the inductive Bible study approach, LifeBuilder Bible Studies are thoroughly field-tested prior to publication; they're proven and popular guides for digging into Scripture on your own or with a small group.

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Book SynopsisMoney and work: just the words themselves can cause anxiety. Mortgages, saving for retirement and bottom lines can easily overwhelm us to the point of despair. But God, who "gives us richly all things to enjoy," wants his people to live in freedom, trusting him and learning to manage our gifts wisely and generously. By pointing to his trustworthiness and generosity, these studies can help you rest in the peace he offers. These ten studies cover subjects such as "What is my time worth?", "What's Tempting About Power?" , "How Much is Enough?", "Does My Property Own Me?", "How Much Is Too much?", "What If I Lose It All?".

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Book SynopsisThis nine-session LifeBuilder Bible Study covers some of the surprising and interesting questions Old Testament characters heard from God, such as when he asked "Where are you?" of Adam and Eve. As we consider the questions God asked others, we are guided inward to reflect on the same questions in our own lives.

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Book SynopsisWhat is the sabbath? A weekly day of rest and worship. People of all ages are discovering that the sabbath is a gift from God – a blessing that brings a renewed awareness of who God is and who we are as his beloved children. These studies will help you to learn more about what the sabbath is and how to practise it. Come and discover God’s gift of rest. 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.

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Book SynopsisIf Jesus wrote a letter to your church, what would he say about the challenges it faces or its relationship with the community? This study helps us to engage with Jesus’ words and to ask some hard questions of ourselves, our leaders and the Lord. Jesus is pointedly honest with us; whether we respond with a renewed focus on him and a fresh pursuit of obedience is up to us. 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.

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Book SynopsisThere has been an explosion of interest in wisdom literature, and many studies are now available. There is every opportunity for people to 'get wisdom, get insight' (Prov. 4:5). However, in today’s world it seems that the practical sensibilities that come from wisdom are found in very few places. Wisdom literature is needed now more than ever. By walking in the way of wisdom we will 'find favour and good success in the sight of God and man' (Prov. 3:4). Richard Belcher’s valuable study begins with a survey of the problem of wisdom literature in Old Testament theology. Subsequent chapters focus on the message and theology of the books of Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes. These books point forward to the need for Christ and the gospel. Belcher concludes by exploring the relationship of Christ to wisdom in terms of his person, work and teaching ministry.Trade Review"Richard Belcher carefully sifts recent approaches to Old Testament Wisdom, and learns much from all of them, but comes away insisting that, while Wisdom is richly human, it is not humanistic: it is deeply God-centred, and properly grounded in creation… This thoughtful book, like the Wisdom it seeks to explore, will open up fresh horizons of reflection, and … make its readers wiser than they were before." D. A. Carson

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Book SynopsisDaniel asserts the meaning of history is that God’s kingdom is coming. As it does, faithful people persevere in their work for God. Believers can rely on the certainties the book proclaims: God is sovereign over human affairs and is effectively bringing in his eternal kingdom, which will encompass all nations. Paul House shows how Daniel rewards readers who embrace its historical, literary and theological features as key means of personal and community formation.

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Book SynopsisChristians usually focus on what Jesus has done (his life, death and resurrection) and what he will do (his second coming and eternal reign). While there has been something of a revival of interest in his ascension, studies of Jesus in his exalted state are relatively rare. However, the Christ that Christians trust in, relate to and love is not only the one who lived, died, rose and will come again: he is also currently seated at God’s right hand. Christian faith as well as theological reflection must take into consideration this significant aspect of Christ’s person and work. Peter Orr attends to this somewhat neglected topic in biblical theology. He explores the New Testament witness to Jesus as he is now, the exalted Christ, through the lenses of his identity, his location and his activity.Trade ReviewInstead of … using the synthetic and analytic categories of systematic theology, Dr Orr largely confines himself to the categories deployed by the biblical writers themselves. Written with verve and clarity, this book promises not only to bring sharper thinking to a rather confused domain of Christology, but also to invite us to deeper adoration as we contemplate overlooked characteristics of our triune God. * D. A. Carson *

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Book SynopsisChock-full of pithy sayings, the book of Proverbs presents ancient Israelite advice for leading a flourishing life. What is more, it apparently preserves four divisions of an ancient curriculum for cultivating youthful character, teaching reverence toward God and faithful love of our neighbours. In this comprehensive commentary, Paul Overland examines Proverbs not as a loose collection of isolated sayings, but as an organised whole that forms a series of cohesive poems. Along with a fresh, annotated translation of each saying, he offers detailed commentary on the form and structure of the text, showing the dynamic development of persuasive thinking marshalled by its author. Exploring the practical implications for living wisely today as well offering cogent analysis, this is a Bible commentary on Proverbs that will benefit all preachers and serious students of the Bible. Part of the Apollos Old Testament commentary series, Proverbs follows a clear, helpful structure that provides a thorough exploration of the text – beginning with translation and notes, examining form and structure, offering insightful commentary and ending with a full exposition of the theological message within the framework of biblical theology. It will leave you with a deeper knowledge of the divine and human aspects of Scripture, as well as a broader understanding of its meaning and continued relevance for modern Christians. The Apollos Old Testament Commentaries are ideal bible commentaries for those preaching from the Old Testament and looking to explore its riches in depth within their sermons, and will also help lay people and scholars studying the Bible at a higher level. Clear and discerning, Paul Overland’s commentary on Proverbs is a brilliant study that will give you a profound appreciation for both the poetry of these sayings and the lessons that they can still Christians today.

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Book SynopsisScripture has brought us light in darkness, strength in weakness, comfort in sadness. It isn't difficult to endorse the Psalmist's experience that the words of God are 'more precious than gold... sweeter than honey'. So it's distressing to watch the Bible being dislodged from its position of authority, not only in our nation but also in the church. Here we focus on the urgent need to continue in, respond to, interpret and expound God's Word.Trade Review[Re The Contemporary Christian] Vintage Stott, with all that that implies. As usual, we find him digesting and deploying a wide range of material with a symmetry matching that of Mozart, a didactic force like that of J C Ryle, and a down-to-earth common sense that reminds one of G K Chesterton. This is really a pastoral essay, a sermon on paper aimed at changing people... an outstandingly good book. ...an expository treat... Bible-based and well researched, intimate and magisterial in style. Passionately calm and generous to a fault, a beautifully written contribution to what Stott calls 'BBC':'balanced biblical Christianity'. -- Dr J I Packer * The Contemporary Christian - original book *Technology has enabled more voices to clamour for our attention than ever before, while at the same time, people’s ability to listen carefully seems to have deteriorated like never before. John Stott’s speaking and writing was renowned for two things in particular. He taught us how to listen attentively to God in order to live faithfully for God, and he to modelled how listen to the world sensitively in order to communicate God’s purposes intelligibly. He taught us to listen. That is why it is such a thrill to see The Contemporary Christian carefully revived in a new format as this series for a new generation of readers. As we read, may we listen well! -- Revd Mark Meynell, Director (Europe & Caribbean) Langham Preaching, Langham Partnership and author of Cross-Examined and When Darkness Seems My Closest Friend[Re The Contemporary Christian] I was ten years into my ministry when The Contemporary Christian was published. I had already heard John Stott deliver some of the material in lecture form, but to have it in print was a real asset. It was a masterclass in presenting and applying the balanced biblical Christianity for which John Stott was renowned. It was extremely perceptive with its call for double-listening, and it was intensely practical, especially in the chapters on preaching and pastors. It was also unusually personal for John Stott, with his poignant appeal for 'young Timothys' which was penned as he celebrated his statutory 'three score years and ten', after which, he said, 'every new day is a bonus which I receive gratefully from God's hand.' I am so glad that these timeless truths are now available to a new generation of 'Timothys'. -- Revd David Johnston, former Senior Minister at Hamilton Rd Presbyterian Church, Bangor, N IrelandI am delighted that a new generation will now be able to benefit from this rich teaching, which so helped me when it first appeared. As always with John Stott, there is a wonderful blend of faithful exposition of the Bible, rigorous engagement with the world and challenging applications for our lives. -- Vaughan Roberts, Rector of St Ebbe's Church, Oxford, conference speaker and author of the bestseller God’s Big Picture (IVP)Imagine being a child overwhelmed by hundreds of jigsaw puzzle pieces - you just can't put them together! And then imagine a kindly old uncle comes along and helps you put the whole thing together, piece by piece. That is what it felt like reading John Stott's The Contemporary Christian series. For those of us who feel we can't get our heads around our Bibles let alone our world, he comes along and, with his staggering gifts of clarity and insight, helps us step by step to work out what it means to understand our world through biblical lenses. It's then a great blessing to have Tim Chester's questions at the end of each chapter, which help us think through and internalise each step. -- Rico Tice, Senior Minister for Evangelism, All Souls Langham Place, London, and co-author of Christianity ExploredI have long benefited from the work of John Stott because of the way he combines rigorous engagement of the biblical text and careful engagement with the culture of his day. The Contemporary Christian series presents Stott at his very best. It displays his commitment to biblical authority, his zeal for the mission of the church, and his call to faithful witness in the world. Stott's reflections here are a must-read for church leaders today. -- Trevin Wax, director of Bibles and reference at LifeWay Christian Resources, author of This Is Our Time and Eschatological DiscipleshipInter-Varsity Press is doing a very good thing by bringing John Stott's The Contemporary Christian back into print—slightly modernized, helpfully rearranged, and broken into short, reader-friendly books. The result is a boon to a new generation of readers who will greatly benefit, as many have before, from Stott's thorough grounding in Scripture, unusual help for living the Christian life, and perceptive interaction with the contemporary world. -- Mark Noll, co-editor of A History of EvangelicalismJohn Stott's remarkable gifts are so evident here. He presents uncompromising truth with crystal clarity and sparkling turns of phrase. Here are Biblical truths for all-of-life discipleship. -- Glen Scrivener, evangelist, speaker and author, and Emma Scrivener, author, blogger and speakerIn my formative years as a young Christian, I was acutely aware of the fact that I faced many challenges to Christian thinking and behaviour. Few writers helped me understand how I should respond to these challenges and think and live as a Christian as much as John Stott did. The challenges of faithfulness to God's way are more acute and complex today than when I was a young Christian. In this little book you find the essence of Stott's thinking about the Christian life, and it is refreshing to read again and see how relevant and health-giving this material is for today. I'm grateful to Inter-Varsity Press and to Tim Chester for making Stott's thinking accessible to a new generation. -- Ajith Fernando, teaching director, Youth for Christ, Sri LankaIt is always refreshing, enlightening and challenging reading from the pen of John Stott. I am totally delighted that one of his most significant works will continue to be available, hopefully for more decades to come. The way Stott strives to be faithful to the Word of God and relevant to his world—secularized Western society—as the locus for the drama of God’s action, is exemplary, especially for those of us ordained to the service of the church in our diverse contexts. I highly commend the Contemporary Christian series to all who share the same pursuit—listening intently to God’s Word and God’s world, hearing and obeying God. -- Bishop David Zac Niringiye, author of The Church: God’s Pilgrim People

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Book SynopsisAfter you've met Jesus, you are never the same again. His teaching challenges your thinking. His compassion softens your heart. His love turns your life around. In this guide Leighton Ford will lead you through thirteen studies from the Gospels that will open your eyes anew - or for the first time - to Jesus Christ. 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 SynopsisThe book of Proverbs is the Bible's how-to manual. The proverbs teach us how to be successful and prosperous in our work, our dealings with family and friends, and our relationship with God. The direction and guidance they give us is practical, concrete, reasonable and fruitful. By reading Proverbs we discover the vital importance of learning to live wisely. 10 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.

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We tend to think that Old Testament women lived in a suppressive environment, under a patriarchy in which they had few rights. But many of them made significant choices – leading people to freedom, daring to believe God for deliverance, taking real initiative – that changed history. Sarah, Miriam, Ruth, Rahab, Naomi, Abigail… here are studies on ordinary yet remarkable women whose lives demonstrate real courage and faithfulness.

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Book SynopsisThe purpose of this study guide is to seek answers to questions such as how can we learn to live centred in God's loving presence, in a way that allows all our activity to flow from that centre? How can we experience this change of heart that will allow us to know God's presence with us in the midst of the busyness of our lives? The answers are taken from Scripture. We will listen as Jesus calls us to live with eyes wide open to what matters most in life, even as we entrust ourselves to God's care so we can live in the present, where God is with us, providing for us. We will hear the invitation to draw the strength we need for the day from God, the Source of all life. We will learn to open ourselves throughout the day to God as we seek God's wisdom, express our gratitude and begin to rest and rely more deeply in God 's presence with us. We will explore ways of conversing with God in the midst of the whirlwind of life and come to see our day's work as a labour of love for God and as the joyful service of kneeling before all others with Jesus.

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Book SynopsisFor some Christians, listening to God is a constant inner tuning to nudges from the Spirit as we go about our day. Others seem to hear God mostly through Scripture. How did the people of the Bible, like Hagar, Moses, Solomon and John, hear God? Ten studies from the Old and New Testaments encourage us to learn about the spiritual discipline of listening to God.

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Book SynopsisWho are you when no one's looking? When her people were threatened, Esther had to ask herself that question. Would she step out and risk her own life? Godly character develops under pressure. This guilde will help you discover how to face the challenges of a culture that has rejected God. 9 studies for individuals or groups. This revised title features questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisI'll never grow up. Sometimes we feel a little like Peter Pan. We'd rather be children, free of obligations and responsibilities. Sometimes we even feel that way about our Christian lives. The writers of Peter & Jude understand how difficult it is to grow into maturity. But they show us how God provides direction and comfort when we travel dark roads, and show us what it takes to be mature in Christ. This revised edition features questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisWe desperately need role models today - people who allow us to be fully human yet inspire us to look beyond our weaknesses to the living God. David is such a person. His struggles with sin are infamous, and the Psalms reveal his anguish and doubts. Yet he is also described as 'a man after God's own heart' - the champion of Israel. As you explore the life of David, you will discover what it means to have a passionate heart for God. The top-selling Lifebuilder Bible Studies have helped millions of people dig deeper into the Bible, individually and in groups. This revised edition 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 SynopsisNine studies concentrating on Biblical characters such as Abraham, Naaman and David, who exercised faith and dependence on God. These are complimented by studies on different aspects of faith such as asking in Jesus' name. The revised titles feature questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisSometimes our worship loses its passion, our prayer life becomes stagnant, we forget why we are serving God. And the world's ways subtly become our ways. Romans addresses these problems and shows us how we can break out of old patterns and become new in Christ. 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 SynopsisConversion is an amazing miracle and being involved in it is an exciting privilege. But many of us find evangelism intimidating! How do we get to the point of discussing Jesus Christ with our friends? With strangers? How can we overcome our fears and insecurities about sharing the gospel? This study guide, centred on the example of Jesus and the early evangelists, will encourage us to communicate our faith creatively and clearly.

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Book SynopsisA permissive society, a power-hungry people, a nation without God – Daniel’s situation in Babylon sounds something like our own. In the midst of secular forces, how can we remain true to biblical values? How can we have a positive impact on those around us? Daniel is a great role model – a man who rose to prominence without compromising his beliefs.

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Book SynopsisJesus often speaks of the kingdom of God. But what is it? When is it? Why is it so important? Understanding and participating in God's kingdom on earth is central to our Christian life. It will transform our picture of who God is and what Christianity is all about. These ten studies will help readers explore the many different aspects of that kingdom. The new and revised titles feature questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisWhen the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, he gave them the Lord's Prayer. But is the Lord's Prayer simply a form of prayer repeated during Sunday morning worship? If so, we are missing out on a rich resource for our spiritual lives. These 8 studies help us to unpack the Lord's Prayer to give us a better understanding of Jesus' teaching on the subject. Additional texts help the reader go deeper and develop a better understanding of Jesus' teaching on prayer. This revised title features questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a 'now or later' section in each of the 8 studies.

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Book SynopsisIt is easy to be happy when things go well, but what would it be like to have a sense of joy that continued even in times of trouble? Such was the joy that the apostle Paul experienced - even in prison. His contentment was neither dependent on circumstances nor changed by difficulty. In his brief letter to the Philippians, Paul teaches us how to live joyfully in every situation. 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 a new 'Now or Later' section in each study.

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Book SynopsisThe human acceptance we long for often comes only if we are attractive, smart, wealthy or powerful. And God's standards seem even higher. We think we must work harder, live better, pray longer and witness to more people to get on God's good side. In Galatians, Paul shows us the true source of our acceptance - Jesus Christ. The top-selling Lifebuilder Bible Studies have helped millions of people dig deeper into the Bible, individually and in groups. This revised edition 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 of the eleven studies.

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Book SynopsisSimon Peter was a follower like us - he wanted to be like Jesus, but he struggled with doubts, and at times he failed. At other times he was used powerfully by God. These 12 studies on his life challenge and motivate us to continue to grow in Christlikeness. This Lifebuilder Bible Study in the new revised format features questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, as well as a new "Now or Later" section in each study.

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Book SynopsisThe book of Joshua reads like an exciting novel - from the miraculous crossing of the Jordan to the crash of the walls of Jericho and the sun stopping in the sky. Through it all we see God's faithfulness and power. Studying Joshua encourages us to persevere in our own daily battles, arming us with the powerful weapons we need - God's promises. 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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