Personal religious testimony and popular inspirational works Books

Book SynopsisJEWels is the first of its kind: the living tradition of Jewish stories and jokes transformed into poems, recording and reflecting Jewish experience from ancient times through the present day, with running commentary and questions for discussion.Trade Review"From wry quotes by Gol­da Meier to bawdy 'Abe and Becky' jokes told by seniors and life-rein­forc­ing philo­soph­i­cal humor in the midst of pain, JEW­els delights with sur­prise. There will be some­thing new here for everyone."—Jewish Book Council"These poems made me laugh, cry or nod with acknowledgment to the wisdom offered. . . . Zeitlin notes that he hopes to give readers a chance to experience a wide range of Jewish perspectives on the world. In that, he has definitely succeeded."—Reporter"Perfect addition to any poetry collections as well as collections with Jewish story and or joke anthologies."—Association of Jewish Libraries Reviews“Steve Zeitlin is a national treasure who celebrates the voices of everyday life. Wise, funny, and poignant, his book JEWels brings Judaism to life in short bursts of words that explode off the page and infuse our hearts with light and truth.”—Dave Isay, founder of StoryCorps“I could not put this book down. JEWels is brilliant, intelligent, well researched, and has heart. It’s an immersive experience in which the whole is greater than the sum of the parts, but the parts are what matter, each jewel standing on its own.”—Amy Shuman, professor in the Department of English at Ohio State University and author of Other People’s Stories“JEWels is a unique, humorous, and sensitive link in the chain of Jewish storytelling, humor, and commentary.”—Rabbi Moshe Waldoks, coeditor of The Big Book of Jewish HumorTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction: The Ancient Living Tradition of Jewish Jokes and Stories The Parrot Traditional joke retold by Zev Shanken The Face of a Human Being Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a story by Rabbi Edward Schecter, based on an old midrash Holocaust Jokes Contemporary joke retold by Zev Shanken Excerpt from “We Tell” By Cherie Karo-Schwartz 1. JEWels . . . in Stories Now the Story Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov Stories Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a story by Edgar Hilsenrath Tales Lined out from an inscription in Elie Wiesel’s Souls on Fire The Lubavitcher Rebbe on Stories By Esther Cohen Burning the Scrolls Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter A Table with People By Marc Kaminsky 2. JEWels . . . on a Journey Paradise Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter The Guru Contemporary joke retold by Steve Zeitlin Mameloshen By Steve Zeitlin Bubba Truth Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale retold by Jane Yolen Traveler’s Prayer By Rabbi Sheila Peltz Weinberg 3. JEWels . . . from the Old Country The Sabbath Fish Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from Cherie Karo Schwartz’s version of Jewish folklore from Eastern Europe and Yemen and earlier version from the Babylonian Talmud The Magic Ship Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from Howard Schwartz’s telling of a folktale in the Israel Folktale Archives Tales of the Razbash By Zev Shanken The Rabbis’ Convocation Traditional tale retold by Robert J. Bernstein The Sweeper Traditional joke The Shammes: A Response Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from Rabbi Edward Schecter’s retelling of “The Sweeper” Once Upon a Time in the Old Country Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale retold by Rabbi David Holtz The Hunchback Traditional tale retold by Zev Shanken and Steve Zeitlin A Cold Ass Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from an interview with Sylvia Cole An Offspring’s Answer Adapted by Peninnah Schram and Steve Zeitlin from The Memoirs of Glückel of Hameln The Cart Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a summer camp story told by Rabbi David Holtz Blessing the New Moon in Wintertime Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from the poem by Rachel Ray Lehrer Faust The Rabbi and the Balagola Traditional folktale retold by Steve Zeitlin Elijah Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale told by Amy Shuman, based on a telling by Dov Noy Parable of the Horse Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a retelling by Jack Tepper Who Said the Jews Killed Jesus? Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from an oral history by Baruch Lumet The Hasid Traditional joke A Nineteenth-Century Hasid Contemplates the Modern World Lined out from a story about the teachings of Abraham Yaakov of Sagadora, as recounted by Martin Buber Philosophy with Noodles Traditional joke retold by Peninnah Schram The Rooster Prince Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale attributed to Rabbi Nachman of Breslov Publishing Lined out from a traditional tale by Rebbe Menachem-Mendel of Kotzk, as retold by Elie Wiesel The Teller of Tales Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter and Marc Kaminsky The Temples Rise Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale retold by storyteller Roslyn Bresnick-Perry Conversations over a Glass Tea Traditional tale retold by Peninnah Schram Fresh Rolls and Butter By Zev Shanken, inspired by the short story “Bontshe Shvayg” by I. L. Peretz How We Lived: A Tribute to Mayer Kirshenblatt Adapted by Steve Zeitlin and Marc Kaminsky from They Called Me Mayer July by storyteller and painter Mayer Kirshenblatt and Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett 4. JEWels . . . in Jokes Passementerie Traditional tale adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a telling by Jack Tepper Telling Jokes in the Shtetl Traditional joke My Mother Liked Telling Jokes By Esther Cohen Taxi Traditional joke Einstein’s Theory of Relativity Traditional joke Schwartz Traditional joke Abe and Becky Traditional joke adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a retelling by Herb Shore The Theater Traditional joke adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a retelling by Herb Shore The Perfect Girl Traditional joke Two Old Jews at a Urinal Traditional joke Time Stamp Traditional joke The Plotkin Diamond Traditional joke Rich Man Traditional joke Golda Traditional joke retold as a clever comeback by Golda Meir The Commandments Traditional joke adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a telling by Rubin Levine Perfect Traditional joke retold by Peninnah Schram Toyota Traditional joke Worry Traditional tale The Summum Bonum Traditional joke adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a retelling by Abe Lass Zoom By Marc Wallace Self-Critique By Sparrow Jewish Mother Telegram Traditional joke retold by Zev Shanken A Freudian Analysis Attributed to, among others, Julia Sweeney, who wrote a book with this title Jewish Mothers Traditional joke Twenty Years Traditional joke Seven Differences between a Joke and a Poem By Zev Shanken Optimism/Pessimism Traditional joke 5. JEWels . . . from Torah The Tsimtsum By Rabbi Edward Schecter Rabbi Simon Said Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a midrash in the name of Rabbi Simon Jacobson Hillel and Shammai Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter What I Would Tell Adam and Eve By Francine Witte The Original Adam and Eve Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a story in Howard Schwartz’s Tree of Souls The Birth of Memory By Steve Zeitlin Enough! Contemporary tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter The Razbash Describes God’s Test By Zev Shanken The Prophet Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter Moses and the Superhero By Jack Santino Rabbi Hayim Vital Dreams of Moses Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale in Howard Schwartz’s Tree of Souls Miriam’s Wandering Well Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale Lamb’s Blood By Steve Zeitlin A Rabbinical Love Poem By Zev Shanken Twelve Rabbis Went to a Party By Annie Lanzillotto The Lamed Vavniks By Arthur Strimling 6. JEWels . . . Shaped by the Holocaust Tickling the Corpse By Steve Zeitlin Holocaust Jokes Contemporary joke retold by Zev Shanken It Is Raining on the House of Anne Frank By Linda Pastan Riding with the Moon Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a true story by Roslyn Bresnick-Perry Last Supper in the Krakow Ghetto Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from oral testimonies by survivors of the Krakow ghetto uprising Hovering above the Pit Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale retold by Yaffa Eliach In the Janowska Street Ghetto Adapted by Marc Kaminsky from a story retold by Yaffa Eliach The Twig Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from Renée Fodor Schwarz’s memoir Renée In Memory of Those Who Died in Vain in the Holocaust Excerpted from a poem by Renée Fodor Schwarz Forgotten Acts of Courage Adapted by Steve Zeitlin and Marc Kaminsky from Alex Borstein’s Emmy acceptance speech Rachel By Linda Pastan Death Train Lined out from André Schwartz-Bart’s The Last of the Just Kaddish in the Boxcar of Death By Aaron Zeitlin, translated by Morris M. Faierstein Face in the Mirror Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a true story by Boris Blum, retold by Toby Blum-Dobkin 7. JEWels . . . in Glimpses of Jewish American Lives Rummage By Marc Kaminsky Yiddishe Mama during World War II Lined out from the essay “The Healing Power of Jokes” by Alter Yisrael Shimon Feuerman Plucking the Chicken Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional joke retold by Abe Lass Getting Dressed By Steve Zeitlin No More Birthdays By Hal Sirowitz A Short History of Judaic Thought in the Twentieth Century By Linda Pastan At a Bungalow in the Rockaways Traditional joke Tradition! Traditional joke Jewish and Goyish Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a routine by Lenny Bruce The Great Trick Is to Know Who You Are Lined out from Jackie Mason’s Broadway show The World According to Me Skin Check By Esther Cohen It Reminds Me of Those Old Jokes Traditional joke The Rabbi By Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett Reflection By Zev Shanken True Story By Carol Klenfner To Kvell or Not to Kvell Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional joke retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter The Free-Yarmulke Bin By Steve Zeitlin The Kiss By Mark Solomon The Driver Said By Robert Hershon Clara By Steve Zeitlin Alicia By Steve Zeitlin Sally Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a true story told by Anita Nager Moishe Said Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a story by Jack Kugelmass Abraham Joshua Heschel Goes to Selma By Steve Zeitlin, quoting Abraham Joshua Heschel 8. JEWels . . . in Jewish Foods The Bagel By David Ignatow The Fish By Lila Zeiger Happiness Lined out from a recollection by Moishe Sacks A Jewish Blessing Sung When Placing the Bread in the Oven Anonymous The Atheist By Steve Zeitlin The Jews and Chinese Food Traditional joke The Jewish Waiter Traditional joke The Strudel Traditional joke Aging Parents By Marc Wallace The Schtup Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale by Lisa Lipkin Fresh Fish Sold Here Traditional joke retold by Cherie Karo Schwartz How to Make Blintzes Traditional joke retold by Cherie Karo Schwartz 2nd Avenue Kosher By Dennis J. Bernstein and Warren Lehrer From “The Whole Soul” By Philip Levine 9. JEWels . . . in Conversations with God The Messiah #1 Lined out from Michael Gold’s Jews without Money The Messiah #2 Traditional joke Closer By Aaron Zeitlin, translated by Morris M. Faierstein Wrestling with God By Bob Mankoff Somebody Up There Likes Me Traditional joke retold by Bob Mankoff It’s All Relative Traditional joke retold by Peninnah Schram Tevye the Milkman Said Lined out from the story “Tevye Strikes It Rich” by Sholem Aleichem My Aunt’s Ninetieth Birthday Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a quip by Ann Katz The Tailor’s Prayer Traditional tale A Pair of Pants Traditional tale The Do-Over By Steve Zeitlin, inspired by a conversation with Richard Rabinowitz The dna in My Coffee—A True Story Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from the story “God and dna over Coffee” by Lisa Lipkin Deconstructing Heaven Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a tale retold by Rabbi Avraham Weiss Levi Yitzhak Burns the Evidence Traditional tale Six Lines By Aaron Zeitlin, translated by Robert Friend To the Rescue Traditional joke Lifeline Traditional tale 10. JEWels . . . on the Meaning of Life The Meaning of Meaning By Bob Holman Who Knows? Adapted by Flash Rosenberg from one of her father’s favorite jokes Hineni By Flash Rosenberg The Angel of Death Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from an essentially true story in Howard Schwartz’s Tree of Souls The Land Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale If Not Higher! Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from the short story “If Not Higher!” by I. L. Peretz Time All at Once Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a story by Caroline Harris Soul Sight Adapted by Marc Kaminsky and Steve Zeitlin from Howard Schwartz’s Tree of Souls The Burning Twig Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale retold by Robert J. Bernstein Oy Lined out from a spontaneous observation by Eli Levine The Philosopher Traditional joke Life Traditional joke The Razbash on Old Age By Zev Shanken Doctor, Doctor Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional joke retold by Doris Kirshenblatt Yizkor By Zev Shanken The Razbash on Forgiveness By Zev Shanken The Womb Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter Moishe’s Wisdom Lined out from Moishe Sacks’s comments in The Grand Generation documentary (1993) The Angel of Forgetfulness Lined out from Dara Horn’s novel The World to Come The Laughing Man Lined out from Elie Wiesel’s Souls on Fire, based on writings attributed to Rabbi Nachman of Breslov Wiesel’s Response Lined out from Elie Wiesel’s Souls on Fire The Fiftieth Gate Lined out from a passage by Rabbi Boruch of Medzhybizh, as recounted by Martin Buber Whitewater Rapids Adapted by Marc Kaminsky and Steve Zeitlin from the story “Whitewater” by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi The Ring Adapted by Marc Kaminsky and Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale The Beautiful Question Traditional tale retold by Steve Zeitlin Lost in the Woods Traditional tale retold by Peninnah Schram Shmuel Discovers a Purpose in Life Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter Coda Traditional tale retold by Rabbi Edward Schecter Concerto Adapted by Steve Zeitlin from a traditional tale retold by Rabbi Eli Rubenstein 11. Final Thoughts Questions for Discussion Source Acknowledgments Notes Bibliography Commentator Biographies Index

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Book SynopsisPsychiatrist and pastor Dr Pablo Martinez explains how our temperament and personality affect our prayer life.Trade Review`A profound, practical and personal book in which the skill of the psychiatrist and the gentleness of the pastor are combined … I cannot imagine any reader failing to be helped by it, as I have been myself.’ -- John StottTable of ContentsContentsAbout the Author 6Foreword by John Stott 7Introduction to the First Edition 9Introduction to the Revised Edition 11Part 1: The Psychology of Prayer1. Different Prayers for Different People Prayer in relation to temperament 142. Overcoming Difficulties Emotional problems and prayer 473. The Therapeutic Value of Prayer Prayer – a love relationship 91Questions and AnswersThe most frequently asked questions on prayer 125Part 2: The Apologetics of Prayer4. Prayer: Psychological Illusion? 134A psychiatrist’s viewpoint5. Are All Prayers Alike?Christian prayer and Eastern meditation 154Notes 171

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Book SynopsisAn exploration of how the presence of God can transform your life, no matter how bad things have got.Table of ContentsPreface 9Acknowledgments 11Introduction 13Chapter1 Lo Debar 192 God’s Promises in Lo Debar 353 Crippled in Lo Debar 474 On the Run in Lo Debar 695 Living in Lo Debar 916 Witnessing in Lo Debar 1037 Praising in Lo Debar 1158 Provision in Lo Debar 1279 Escape from Lo Debar 14110 Feasting at the King’s Table 151

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Book SynopsisThis book helps readers delight in being a part of relationships within the churchno matter how messy and awkward they seemwith rich theology, practical direction, and study questions for group use.

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Book SynopsisVeteran pastor John MacArthur makes the case that Jesus's passion for his people is sanctification and encourages pastors to revolve their ministry around the increasing sanctification of their members through preaching and discipleship.

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Book SynopsisIn the second installment to the Suffering and the Christian Life series, Mark Talbot encourages readers to place their suffering within the arc of the full biblical story so that they will better understand their suffering and be able to take courage and find comfort in God as they walk through it.

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Book SynopsisIntended for small groups, one-on-one studies, or individual use, this study guide works alongside the book What Is the Gospel? to help readers center every part of their lives around the good news of the gospel.

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Book SynopsisAlex Duke highlights the benefits of church membershipdiscipleship, accountability, and fellowshipand offers advice on how Christians can encourage faithful church membership in their congregations. Part of the Church Questions series.

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Book SynopsisMany Christians have good intentions to regularly read the Bible, only to find that they get distracted and their interest wanes. In this short booklet, Jeremy Kimble offers practical guidance for Christians looking to spend more time in God's word and understand why Bible reading is important to the life of the local church.

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Book SynopsisWhen Jesus calls someone to be his disciple, he's calling them to turn from their sin and love him. In this addition to the Church Questions series, Garrett Kell helps Christians seek out one-on-one discipleship opportunities.

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Book SynopsisIn Gospel-Centered Discipleship, Jonathan Dodson unveils an effective, Spirit-led model for following Jesus in everyday life. Drawing from his own failures and successes in discipling others, he provides practical ideas for mentor and peer-based discipleship as Jesus intended.

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Book SynopsisWith the philosophy that as we shape our decisions, our decisions shape us, Aimee Joseph teaches readers how to worship and draw closer to Christ through their daily decisions.

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Book SynopsisIn The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism, Carl F. H. Henry critiques separatist evangelicals and their absence from the social arena, calling on all Christians to unite humanitarianism with Christ-centered leadership to impact the kingdom of God.

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Book SynopsisLindsey Carlson leads weak and weary women to a refreshing streamthe God of endurance and encouragement, who satisfies spiritual thirst through the better word of his Son.

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Book SynopsisRediscover Church is a timely reminder that the church is more than just a livestreamit is an essential fellowship of God's people furthering God's mission.

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Book SynopsisPairing together Nine Marks of a Healthy Church with How to Build a Healthy Church, these two classic texts create a timeless set that is essential for every pastor's library.

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Book SynopsisCreated in partnership with the Union School of Theology in Oxford, the Union series invites readers to experience deeper enjoyment of God through 4 interconnected values: delighting in God; growing in Christ; serving the church; and blessing the world.

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Book SynopsisIn Help for the Hungry Soul, author Kristen Wetherell offers 8 encouragements to spur an appetite for God's wordthe only thing that can truly satisfy a soul hungry for more.

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Book SynopsisAn examination of the efforts of faith-based organizations to expand the rights of the formerly incarcerated The use of religion to rehabilitate and redeem formerly incarcerated individuals has been a cultural touchstone of the modern era. Yet religious outreach to those with criminal records has typically been associated with an emphasis on private spirituality, with efforts focused on repentance, conversion, and restorative justice. This book sheds light on how faith-based organizations utilize the public arena, mobilizing to expand the social and political rights of former inmates. In Jesus Saved an Ex-Con, Edward Orozco Flores profiles Community Renewal Society and LA Voice, two faith-based organizations which have actively waged community organizing campaigns to expand the rights of people with records. He illuminates how these groups help the formerly incarcerated re-enter broader communities through the expansion of citizenship rights and participatiTrade ReviewIn this powerful work, Flores challenges the top-down bias of criminal justice reform … Flores's concepts of pastoral and insurgent prophetic redemption will be useful to scholars studying religious social movements, and the book’s broad themes make it valuable for diverse sociological audiences. A welcome addition to criminal justice literature as well as to the literature on the sociology of religion and social movements. * Choice *Jesus Saved an Ex-Con is an important book because its detailed and engaging case studies address broadly relevant sociological questions even as they speak directly to the religion and social movements subfields. As such, it will appeal not only to its core subdisciplinary audience, but also to criminologists and to some policy and governance scholars. Community organizers and other activist practitioners will also have much to gain from reading it, as will ethnographers across subfields, who can benefit from Flores’ insightful, though brief, discussions of how he met his research participants and gained their trust, and the moments of discomfort he felt in the field. In all, this is a highly readable and analytically rich book that should be on many sociologists’ shelves, and would also suit undergraduate courses in religion, social movements, and criminology. -- Sociology of ReligionIn this book,Edward Orozco Flores contributes to the growing debate on criminal justice reform by showing how ex-prisonersnow 'returning citizens'are giving back to American communities. They give back not only by sharing their personal stories of moral redemption, but also by reclaiming forms of civic life and political empowerment against the grain of elite manipulation. Drawing on scholarly work in the sociology of religion, social movements, and civic life, Flores argues that 'prophetic redemption' may not only redeem ex-offenders own stories but also redeem the full promise of American democracy against the imposters that claim to speak in its name. -- Richard L. Wood,author of A Shared Future: Faith-Based Organizing for Racial Equity and Ethical DemocracyA unique book. It’s not a book about gangs or crime, but rather the story of individuals who have been incarcerated, many with previous gang involvement and drug histories, and how they participate in faith-based community organizing in order to improve the reentry process back into society. * American Journal of Sociology *

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Book SynopsisAn examination of the efforts of faith-based organizations to expand the rights of the formerly incarcerated The use of religion to rehabilitate and redeem formerly incarcerated individuals has been a cultural touchstone of the modern era. Yet religious outreach to those with criminal records has typically been associated with an emphasis on private spirituality, with efforts focused on repentance, conversion, and restorative justice. This book sheds light on how faith-based organizations utilize the public arena, mobilizing to expand the social and political rights of former inmates. In Jesus Saved an Ex-Con, Edward Orozco Flores profiles Community Renewal Society and LA Voice, two faith-based organizations which have actively waged community organizing campaigns to expand the rights of people with records. He illuminates how these groups help the formerly incarcerated re-enter broader communities through the expansion of citizenship rights and participatiTrade ReviewIn this powerful work, Flores challenges the top-down bias of criminal justice reform … Flores's concepts of pastoral and insurgent prophetic redemption will be useful to scholars studying religious social movements, and the book’s broad themes make it valuable for diverse sociological audiences. A welcome addition to criminal justice literature as well as to the literature on the sociology of religion and social movements. * Choice *Jesus Saved an Ex-Con is an important book because its detailed and engaging case studies address broadly relevant sociological questions even as they speak directly to the religion and social movements subfields. As such, it will appeal not only to its core subdisciplinary audience, but also to criminologists and to some policy and governance scholars. Community organizers and other activist practitioners will also have much to gain from reading it, as will ethnographers across subfields, who can benefit from Flores’ insightful, though brief, discussions of how he met his research participants and gained their trust, and the moments of discomfort he felt in the field. In all, this is a highly readable and analytically rich book that should be on many sociologists’ shelves, and would also suit undergraduate courses in religion, social movements, and criminology. -- Sociology of ReligionIn this book,Edward Orozco Flores contributes to the growing debate on criminal justice reform by showing how ex-prisonersnow 'returning citizens'are giving back to American communities. They give back not only by sharing their personal stories of moral redemption, but also by reclaiming forms of civic life and political empowerment against the grain of elite manipulation. Drawing on scholarly work in the sociology of religion, social movements, and civic life, Flores argues that 'prophetic redemption' may not only redeem ex-offenders own stories but also redeem the full promise of American democracy against the imposters that claim to speak in its name. -- Richard L. Wood,author of A Shared Future: Faith-Based Organizing for Racial Equity and Ethical DemocracyA unique book. It’s not a book about gangs or crime, but rather the story of individuals who have been incarcerated, many with previous gang involvement and drug histories, and how they participate in faith-based community organizing in order to improve the reentry process back into society. * American Journal of Sociology *

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Book SynopsisGod wants you to enjoy life--and one of the ways to experience a blessed life is the Ten Commandments. These timeless truths are so much more than the dry rules we've consigned them to be. They're an invitation into a relationship with God of overflowing blessing and love. But to receive those benefits, we actually have to know--and follow--God's instructions. Drawing deeply from the well of Scripture, Dr. Robert Jeffress refreshes our understanding and appreciation of the Ten Commandments, unpacking exactly what each commandment means and explaining how obeying God in these things will improve our personal lives, our relationships, our churches, and our communities. This fresh presentation of ancient truth for modern lives will free you to experience blessings you could never imagine.

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Book SynopsisBitterness is a destructive poison, yet we all struggle with it sometimes due to circumstances our sovereign God has allowed. In a world full of struggle, we must take care that difficult circumstances do not feed a bitter spirit within us. In this honest and hopeful book, pastor and counselor Stephen Viars shows you how to avoid the pitfalls of a bitter heart as you walk through our fallen world. When we learn to process bitterness biblically and effectively, we can move from life's greatest hurts to a life filled with joy.

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Book SynopsisOur lives are fraught with anxiety. Conflict in our relationships, fears about the future, information overload, financial pressure, lack of contentment--all of them can steal our joy because they steal our peace. Through Christ we are promised peace, but how can we feel peace when we live in a world of chaos? Because, says Chip Ingram, peace isn't a feeling; it's a choice. In I Choose Peace, Chip unpacks Philippians 4 to show us how we can choose peace in - relational conflict - anxious moments - a broken world - difficult circumstances - a materialistic culture If you're tired of feeling anxious over the state of the world, your relationships, or your own heart, this encouraging book will help you quiet your worries and experience real, lasting peace that doesn't depend on what's going on around you.

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Book SynopsisThe Bible calls Jesus the friend of sinners, but it's hard to imagine what friendship with Jesus really looks like. We so often don't even know how to do friendship with the people around us, despite all the options we have to connect. So how are we supposed to feel that close to a holy, perfect, and invisible God? How do we see Jesus as the real person he is? And how do we experience true friendship with him when we struggle to maintain true friendship on earth? Join author Jared C. Wilson as he explores what it means to be a friend of Jesus. Through candid personal stories and insights into the Gospels, Wilson uncovers easily overlooked details of the close relationship Jesus had with his followers. He reveals the ways we often hold Jesus at arm's length and shows how to draw close to him through radical honesty, consistent communication, and unconditional love. If you've found yourself lonely and longing for connection and friendship, it's time to discover the remarkable possibility of closeness with Christ.

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Book SynopsisMany of us think of activism as signing petitions, attending rallies or marches, or engaging in political agendas. But what does it look like to be moved by the things that moved God's heart in the day-to-day? How can we live in such a way that we are always, out of habit, contributing to a more just society? In this inspiring and accessible book, pastor J.W. Buck shows you how to engage in 7 practices to be a faithful activist in the world today, including choosing · thoughtful resistance over thoughtless compliance · loving your neighbor over fearing your differences · seeking forgiveness over revenge · resting over endless working · practicing nonviolence over violence · and more If you've wanted to get involved in justice work but aren't sure where to start, this practical and visually engaging book will show you how you can develop everyday habits drawn from the life of Jesus that make the world a better place.

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Book SynopsisReady to go deeper into what you learned about following the Ten Commandments and receiving the blessings that come from obedience? In this study guide designed to accompany The 10, Dr. Robert Jeffress gives you practical, actionable ways to · esteem God alone · worship God only · revere God's name · value God's day · honor your parents · preserve life · keep marriage holy · respect the property of others · safeguard the reputation of others · control yourself and be content Perfect for individuals, small groups, ministry teams, and more, this resource will help you put into practice all that you learned from the book so that you can see a difference in the way you live and love in a world that has lost its way.

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Book SynopsisA systemic problem plagues the local and global church: We habitually lose the gospel. In its place, we substitute personal prosperity, legalism, politics--and we end up paralyzing the mission of the church.Galatians contains Paul's passionate defense of the gospel. It shows us how to enjoy God's presence and everlasting peace, setting us free to love and be loved. In Live in Liberty, Daniel Bush and Noel Due help you apply the spiritual message of Galatians so that you may experience the liberating presence of God.Trade ReviewSt. Paul's passionate defense and explanation of the new life and freedom that we have in Christ, is the heart of his letter to the Galatians. In this book Daniel Bush and Noel Due reignite this message--affirming that Christ brings to humans hearts and lives freedom, life, hope and peace. This book will inform and inspire readers who delight in the gospel.--Rev. Noel Noack, bishop, Lutheran Church of Australia, Queensland District"I travel a lot and meet a lot of people and I've never been more convinced that the message of Galatians needs to be recovered in all of its liberating glory. Everywhere I go, people are exhausted. They're exhausted relationally, emotionally, and spiritually. After talking to the spiritually exhausted people, I discover that their exhaustion is due to what they think they need to be doing in order to gain and maintain God's love and favor. In theological terms, most Christians live their lives as if their justification depends on their sanctification: if I do and become all that I must do and become, God will love me and accept me. The message of Galatians is that God's love for sinners like you and me is one way--it is not dependent on what we do, but on what Jesus has done for us. We are accepted and approved by God because of Christ's work, not our work. Church should be the one place in all of society where the weary and heavy laden should be able to go and find rest. But all too often they get to-do lists. This needs to change. We need a new reformation. And that's why I love Live in Liberty. Thank you Noel and Dan for reminding that "It Is Finished." I keep forgetting.--Rev. Tullian Tchividjian, senior pastor, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; founder, LIBERATE; author, One Way Love: Inexhaustible Grace for an Exhausted World"Adopting a reading of Galatians from the traditional perspective of Luther's 'law and gospel' dialectics, the authors bring refreshing significance of the central message of justification by faith to the modern readers. Through the exposition of the epistle, they direct us to look beyond ourselves, pointing constantly to the gracious God who calls us to freedom, to the loving Christ who was crucified for us and to the enabling Spirit who transforms us."--Rev. Dr . Luke Cheung, vice-president and professor new testament, China Graduate School of Theology, Hong Kong; author, The Genre, Composition and Hermeneutics of James"In twenty-four well-written, easily digestible chapters, Daniel and Noel unpack for us the deep truths of Paul's words in Galatians that we may apply it to our minds and souls. I trust you will be as blessed reading this as I was and through it discover the key to joy and peace with God in Galatians as Luther had."--Rev. Dr . Terry Kee Buck Hwa, bishop, Lutheran Church in Singapore; former missionary to Thailand; former pastor, Bedok Lutheran Church"Dan and Noel take us on a joy-filled journey through the letter to the Galatians, drenching us with God's grace and gospel freedom along the way. Their compass is the total love of God in Jesus, his all-fulfilling death and resurrection, and the Spirit-filled life of faith. Exploring the collected witness of generations of believers, they help us re-engage with the message of the God who loves us unconditionally. Readable, accessible, and digestible, Live In Liberty is a great companion for any reader who wants to dive deeper into the message of this most vital Biblical letter."--Rev. John Henderson, national bishop, Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) and New Zealand (LCNZ); former principal, Australian Lutheran College; former general secretary, National Council of Churches in Australia"Dan and Noel winsomely invite us to cultivate a habit of believing the Gospel. That means looking constantly to Christ Jesus alone for acceptance, assurance and even adoption as the Father's sons. Our old habits of self-salvation die hard, but Dan and Noel make great spiritual wrestling coaches. Keep this book by your 'prayer chair.' Follow daily these 24 engaging encounters with Galatians and see how a habit of Christ will grow joyfully through you. Chock full of great quotes from both the old and the new masters of spiritual insight, Live in Liberty flows with a fresh writing style, knitting us in mind and heart to two companions along the way of grace."--Rev. Dr. Gerrit Dawson, senior pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; author, The Blessing Life: A Journey to Unexpected Joy and Jesus Ascended: The Meaning of Christ's Continuing Incarnation"Daniel and Noel present insights and an inspiring message on the Letter to the Galatians. They provide biblically sound, quality scholarship in understandable language, communicating clearly the scripture's thrust to God's people today. The book will hold the interest of common readers and provide pastors and Bible teachers with much material. I highly recommend it! May God bless many through these pages in the days to come."--Dr . Suresh Vemulapalli, director, India Village Ministries, Andhra Pradesh, India"You have in your hands a book written in love about an epistle that Luther described as having been written with 'a pen dipped in fire.' Whilst not a technical commentary, it does what all commentaries should do: it clearly and faithfully expounds the meaning and implications of the word of God in Scripture. Moreover, it does so in a way that is heart-warming, as well as being accessible to both pastors and their people. Live in Liberty will not only help readers to come to grips with the truth and grace of the gospel, but will, I am confident, send them on their way rejoicing."--Rev. Rob Smith, lecturer in theology, Sydney Missionary & Bible College, Sydney; minister at St Andrew's Cathedral, Sydney; author of Justification and Eschatology: A Dialogue with "The New Perspective on Paul""Every Christian needs to grasp what was at stake when Paul wrote his letter to the Galatians because what was at stake was the gospel of God's saving grace to sinners in Christ and its implications. Daniel Bush and Noel Due address the issues with the clear understanding of theologians, with the clarity and simplicity of preachers and with the passion of pastors who are concerned for the well-being of their flock. In clear, readable prose, Bush and Due lead the reader through this rather daunting letter with a light touch. The attentive reader will finish the book in no doubt about what the gospel is and with a heart full of praise to God for his great salvation by grace."--Rev. Dr . Alistair Wilson, principal and professor, Dumisani Theological Institute, King William's Town, South Africa; associate professor of new testament, North-West University, Potchefstroom; editor, The Scottish Bulletin of Evangelical Theology; author, The God of Covenant: Biblical, Theological and Contemporary Perspectives"If you are tired of doing church or have quit church-going because you've been hurt once too often; if you have lost your early Christian joy or simply feel dirty in your sin, this is a must-read for you. In a fresh and engaging way, and writing out of their own rich experience of God's grace, the authors help to bring the message of Galatians alive to a modern audience as they highlight the centrality and transforming power of the grace of God manifest in the all-sufficiency of Christ for cleansing, salvation, renewal and the whole of life--the Christ in and through whom we are brought into the loving embrace of the Father, and by whose Spirit we are able to exult forever in the knowledge of 'Abba,' our Father who loves us with the same love he has always had for his eternal Son!"--Rev. Hector Morrison, principal and lecturer in old testament , Highland Theological College, Inverness, Scotland; former pastor, Barvas Church of Scotland, Isle of Lewis"There is arguably no clearer presentation of the gospel in the New Testament than that provided by Paul's Letter to the Galatians; but commentaries on that gospel are still needed for each new generation and context where circumcision and dietary laws are not issues but legalism in its other forms is well and truly alive. Live in Liberty is such a commentary which can awaken twenty-first century readers of Galatians to an even clearer understanding of the gospel than the Letter alone might deliver."--Rev. Andrew Jaensch, lutheran studies coordinator, Australian Catholic University; lecturer of educational theology, Australian Lutheran College

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Book SynopsisYou have permission to do something incredible.Whether you'd like to start a different career, earn greater income, or perhaps accomplish something unrelated to your job, you can do it! And now is the time to start.In Start Next Now, successful entrepreneur Bob Pritchett shares his guiding principles, which have grown his company to over 440 employees today. You won't find mere inspirational puffery here. This fast-paced book provides you with an actual plan to start achieving your goal before you even finish reading.So what are you waiting for? It's time to start next now.Trade ReviewStop WHATEVER you're doing right now, and read this book--all of it! It's a quick read that will make ALL the difference in your career.--Johnnie Moore, president, The KAIROS Company"In Start Next Now, Bob Pritchett provides an incredibly efficient way to discover specific, practical steps to advance yourself professionally, personally, and spiritually. He also explains one of my passions, which is the relationship between compensation, happiness, and meaningful work, and how to find the right balance."--Dan Price, founder and CEO, Gravity Payments"Knowing who you are, and where you are headed is an essential requirement for anyone, regardless if you hold a regular or leadership role. When you align your goals, live purposefully and work with focus on all areas of your life, you will end up in the right spot. Bob has many years of leadership experience, and though it takes an entire team to build a successful company, it cannot happen without the purpose driven vision of a successful leader. From his years of experience, Bob offers great practical advice, and though at first it may seem familiar, I can assure you that those familiar truths are the ones that hold most value." --Hein van Wyk, CEO/President, Sharefaith "In working with dozens of young leaders in my church and through my blog readership, the one thing they seem to want most is assurance from those of us who have gone before them. They want someone who believes in them and will give them permission to try. And, if they fail, to try again. This is a needed book for our culture and our times."--Ron Edmondson, pastor, coach, and organizational leadership consultant, RonEdmondson.com"It took me years to wrap my mind around how to reach my goals. The advice in Start Next Now has been immensely helpful and helps me not only pursue more purposefully my own goals, but also help others achieve theirs! A light read with heavy truth that will stand."--James Nwobu, chief operating officer, Collision Records"Bob is a true entrepreneur who has been there and done that. Start Next Now is an honest look at what it takes to be successful in business and life with practical advice that you can implement today."--Anne-Marie Faiola, founder, Brambleberry.com and SoapQueen.com"Bob wants to help you be successful at work, but more importantly, he wants to help you uncover your passion in life. Do you long to live a life of purpose? Do you want to be effective and make a difference with your life? This book is teeming with practical advice you can implement into your life instantly. A quick, enjoyable, and very important read for young people, or people of any age for that matter." --Matt Brown, evangelist, author of Awakening, and founder of Think Eternity"Start Next Now is a concise plan for those who find they have more to achieve and aren't sure how to do so. I would recommend this quick read to any person starting in a career or simply stuck at a level of employment below their true potential."--Jane Carten, CEO, Saturna Capital "In a time when everyone desires authenticity but few display it, Bob Pritchett stands out. Bob is self-taught and self-made, and he accomplished both by practicing the principles he shares in this book. Start Next Now is Bob's generous (and blunt) offer to help you accomplish your goals. It may not contain everything you need to know in order to succeed, but you need to know everything in it to have a fighting chance."--James J. Kragenbring, president and chief investment officer, Aquifer Capital, LLC"Start Next Now is full of sage advice from someone who practices what he preaches. Every HR department should have this resource available for their employees."--Matt Lucas, provost and executive vice president, Corban University"Just entering your career and need guidance? Stuck in your job and need direction? Doing ok but not moving forward? Start Next Now is for you! Biblical, balanced, witty, clear, honest, practical advice for getting the life you've always wanted."--Dr. Mark Futato, professor and author"It is truly a thrill to read Start Next Now, get in the head of Bob Pritchett, and learn that the joy in Bob's heart is not because of his success, it is the choice of doing it now--the act of being in action. As humans, we find many reasons and excuses to not get started or follow through on our dreams, but Bob points out many steps and pitfalls. He shows us his thoughts to help us gain courage, to give us the freedom to set aside our reasons that otherwise would have stopped us from moving forward with passion and filling our box of knowledge and courage as we grow. Never stop learning. Realize now that it is the 'courage' that you earn in the journey that is the success. The book is really an easy read and a pocket pal worthy of sharing."--Becky Raney, chief operating officer, Print & Copy Factory"I plan to have each of my six children read this book--but there is no one who cannot learn something from Start Next Now. This book gives each person an opportunity to fail at something and learn from it, so they can be ready for the next venture. When done with the attributes ofChrist, we can certainly use our vocation to further the cause of Christ, not only in others' lives, but in our own."--Dr. Mark Chavalas, professor and author"Start Next Now gives you the courage to pursue goals--along with massively practical tips to help you get started today." --Gabe Cooper, founder and CEO, Brushfire Interactive and Virtuous Software"Bob Pritchett offers a lot of insightful, timeless advice that you'll find valuable for you, your kids, employees, managers, or anyone wanting to get ahead. I'd strongly urge you to read and share Start Next Now."--Tony Larson, president, Whatcom Business Alliance "Start Next Now will breathe new life into your career and set new purpose to your personal and business goals. Start Next Now will help you consider the 'why' in your life and challenge you to succeed."--Troy Muljat, commercial real estate developer "I love this book, the perfect gift for friends and employees looking to get unstuck. I encounter so many friends who talk about making a change in their life but don't know how to start or where to go to get there. This quick and easy read is a practical resource to jump-start their journey and shift their thinking. Understanding and embracing Imposter Syndrome definitely shifts your mindset to take on huge challenges that can make a massive impact on your life. I will definitely be getting every one of my employees a copy of this book to encourage them on their path."--Todd Watson, CEO, Showit, Inc."Start Next Now includes good straight advice that anyone can pursue to achieve more of what they want."--Jeff Kochman, president and CEO, Barkley Company/Talbot Real Estate/TIC Holdings"Whether you have a giant goal or a modest one, Start Next Now will get you moving in the right direction and guide you along the path of success. Bob Pritchett has been there and done that in dramatic but humble fashion, and he can help you achieve your goals as well."--Mark Donnelly, 1 New York Times bestselling author of multiple Chicken Soup for the Soul books"Bob Pritchett has a knack for taking complicated concepts and presenting them in simple, memorable ways. In Start Next Now, he shares a wealth of practical wisdom on accomplishing life goals. This is a book I'm going to give to my children and to young entrepreneurs, to help them chart a meaningful course for their lives."--Brian Mackay, principal, Marketplace One"Bob Pritchett has outlined simple and highly effective strategies for taking your reality to the next level. Through compelling stories and practical advice, Start Next Now will help change your paradigm. It is blunt, real, and highly engaging--a must-read, chock-full of motivation to challenge your status quo and get you focused on reaching your goals. Bob's inspiring and in-your-face perspectives will become bullet points for leadership training experts for years to come. So, there is no time to lose. Stop reading this endorsement and start reading Start Next Now. You will be glad you did!"--John Bornschein, vice chairman, National Day of Prayer Task Force "Anyone looking for the final (or first) push toward realizing the life they have always wanted should stop what they are doing and read Bob Pritchett's book. We all strive for our 'Next Now,' but oftentimes fail to break it down into the pragmatic steps required for forward progress. As he says in the book, 'Ambition is a treadmill,' and Bob will help change the way you think about things just enough so that you can get on the treadmill tomorrow."--Todd Garland, founder and CEO, BuySellAds"Bob has written an inspirational book every leader should read on how to start the next thing now. The book is full of down-to-earth, practical, and timeless advice. I wished I had read this book years ago when I started out my career." --Paul Sohn, Leadership Coach, Author, Blogger"Start Now Next is an insightful book full of thought provoking and extremely practical ideas. I enjoyed Bob Pritchett's ability to make the content both funny and easy to understand."--Charlene Witt, PraiseCharts Publishing, Inc."As someone who has worked in ministry, corporate, and as an entrepreneur, this book really rang true with me. It is not only inspirational and practical, but very actionable. If you want to grow in your calling and passion, I highly recommend you read this and put it into action."--Wisdom Moon, Song Resources & Church Engagement Manager, Integrity Music"Knowing who you are, and where you are headed is an essential requirement for anyone, regardless if you hold a regular or leadership roll. When you align your goals, live purposefully and work with focus on all areas of your life, you will end up in the right spot. Bob has many years of leadership experience, and though it takes an entire team to build a successful company, it cannot happen without the purpose driven vision of a successful leader. From his years of experience, Bob offers great practical advice, and though at first it may seem familiar, I can assure you that those familiar truths are the ones that hold most value."--Hein van Wyk, CEO/President, Sharefaith"After "Fire Someone Today!", Bob Pritchett delivers more common sense advice in "Start Next Now" for business managers and owners about having those difficult conversations about pay, promotions and financial opportunity with employees and making sure they are on the right "bus" with you!"--Jim Sharpe, Entrepreneur in Residence, Harvard Business School

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Book SynopsisKenneth Ching lived a comfortable life--with a great job, a big house, and an easy faith. He went to church and believed in God's goodness. But when his son is born with a serious and rare genetic condition, his life is thrown into terrifying chaos.In this honest and raw memoir, Ching brings to life his experience of letting go while learning to truly trust the Savior he claims to know. Ching doesn't shy away from asking the hard questions: Why does God answer some prayers but not others? How does prayer work? Is God even listening?Shattered Prayers is ultimately a story about recognizing God's presence and faithfulness in the midst of brokenness. And how one man thought God ruined his life by giving his son a terrible disease, but eventually realized God was actually fighting to save his faith and his son's life.Trade ReviewShattered Prayers is an artful examination of faith in the face of suffering. In recounting his family's story, Ching allows the reader access to a father's inner dialogue with a candor that is at turns frightening, vulnerable, and beautiful--often at the same time. And while the book's primary preoccupations are questions of faith, the story is told with a sense of drama that keeps the reader rapt.--Gabriel Urza, author of All That Followed"Shattered Prayers is a very real and honest look at the struggles of parenting a child with special needs. Kenneth Ching writes with transparency, expressing his frustrations with God and despite losing hope at times, never losing faith. He reminds us that although God doesn't always work the way we expect him to, he still loves us and our children even more than we can imagine."--Claire Yorita Lee, author (with Shari Rigby) of Beautifully Flawed

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Book SynopsisLoneliness, fear, vulnerability, conflict, pain--these aren't experiences we typically seek out. And yet we all encounter them during our lives.Do you embrace these times, or do you raise your defenses, determined not to get hurt? What if it's possible to see God more clearly in the midst of these trials?In Undefended, Daniel Bush shows readers how to approach life's difficulties from a gospel-centered and grace-driven perspective, arguing that the experiences we avoid can actually bring us nearer to Christ. Drawing on examples from the Bible, history, popular culture, and the author's own life, Undefended seeks to personally acquaint readers with an experience of the inner heart, where true discovery of God takes place.Bush writes out of a deep passion for helping others find spiritual awakening, stemming from over 15 years in pastoral and counseling ministries. He guides readers through ten different experiences that can show us the authentic heart of God--if we approach him undefended.Trade ReviewReading a Daniel Bush book is always a delight! Undefended: Discovering God When Your Guard Is Down is not the exception. This book is incredibly refreshing and profound--and so practical. Here, you will find real-life "hard places" and the good news that Jesus shows. It's the kind of book one reads often to be reminded that one doesn't need any defense but Jesus because, in his love, grace, and acceptance, there is nothing to defend. In his presence (and thus the presence of others) one is free to laugh and dance with great joy and freedom. This is a book that could change your life.--Steve Brown, radio broadcaster and founder, Key Life Network; professor emeritus of preaching and pastoral ministry, Reformed Theological Seminary; author of Hidden Agendas and Three Free SinsAre we willing to let ourselves need God? In Undefended we are let in behind the scenes of one man's wrestling with this question and invited to ask it ourselves. As we do we may just find it's what we've wanted all along.--Mandy Smith, author of The Vulnerable PastorUndefended: Discovering God When Your Guard Is Down is not a book that you will want to read cover to cover in one sitting. Instead, this is a book that you will want to walk through chapter by chapter, and let God speak to you in the depths of your heart, mind, and soul. By weaving together scriptural truths with relevant stories and illustrations that open us to see how we are not Undefended, Daniel Bush has provided us a guide to facilitate a release from the barriers in our lives that keep us from experiencing the full depth and breadth of God's grace.--James F. Kirkley, associate professor, religion and ethics, Shaw UniversityForged in the fires of dryness, discouragement, and pain, Daniel Bush writes from experience: his defenses burned down, his soul exposed to his own weakness and vulnerability. He writes broken by an acute awareness of unfulfilled needs and the struggle to surrender to his heavenly Father. Although intellectual and astute, Undefended is no academic perusal. It's a story of spiritual awakening, the journey from personal competency and self-determination to broken dependency we all must make.If you're looking for a book of principles for spiritual maturity or steps to Christian joy, look elsewhere. Undefended stubbornly refuses to reduce the Christian life to a set of disciplines or propagate the notion that faith means denying the pains of this life and donning a veneer of niceness and joy. Again and again we're shown that Jesus came to save the sick, broken, and needy, that he meets us in our pain, our fear, our need, our loneliness--and even in our doubt. Christian growth isn't a byproduct of discipline or striving, but surrender to the inevitable reality of our own sinfulness and dependence upon the love and grace of the Father. For those wounded and wearied by life, here is hope that God is present in our life and may be discovered even now if we will only seek Him. An opportunity for a deeper acquaintance with His love is near.--Dr. Jeffrey Pipe, licensed psychologist, Tapestry Associates, Marietta, GeorgiaUndefended strikes truth after beautiful truth at the bull's-eye of what it means to be human. In an age when vulnerability has arguably become glib, author Daniel Bush provides a refreshing reminder that when we guard our hearts in the love of Christ first, we are then freed to let down our guard to love others more fully. Informed yet accessible, with humor and humility, Bush offers poignant wisdom relevant to any life season, but especially to those times in which we are laid most bare. To me, this book will always be a timely, needed, and reorienting read. In other words, Bush indeed gives a blood transfusion to the anemic advice: "Just trust in God."--Dr. Carolyn Weber, professor, speaker, and author of Surprised by Oxford and Holy Is the DayWeary of defending a false self that proves over and over again to be indefensible? Ready to entertain the notion that the real you is on offer in the person of the only "True Self" ever to have lived, who lives even now to live in you, freeing you more and more from "pretense, people-pleasing, playacting, pomposity, self-protection, and phony, pharisaical righteousness"? If so, you are ready for this beguiling read from Daniel Bush. --The Very Rev'd. Dr. Reggie M. Kidd, dean, Cathedral Church of Saint Luke, Orlando, Florida, and professor of New Testament emeritus, Reformed Theological Seminary Orlando

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Book SynopsisThe late Pope John Paul II's words and life have inspired millions of people. Here, in one handy and easy-to-use guide, are some of the most memorable and inspiring quotes encompassing all of John Paul's long life, grouped around principal categories such as human love, creation, suffering, human life/Gospel of life, the person, time and eternity, faith and reason, love of country, and many more, plus a careful, detailed subject index and quotable-line index. Many people who follow the Pope as an inspiring speaker do not know of his philosophical writings, and many who know him mainly through the reading of his wide-ranging and crystalline encyclicals do not know of any of his personal writings and poetry. Here gathered for all his admirers is a collection that will inspire and provoke, encourage and comfort. St. Augustine's Press's new LifeGuide Series will offer collections of the most memorable thoughts from some of the most inspiring authors in history. Some will be new translations (and, if so, will feature the original languages as well as English), some will be English-only, but all will present the thoughts and words that have changed the lives of millions. Bound in a small, convenient size, LifeGuides will all be very reasonably priced to make them attractive, enduring gifts.

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Book Synopsis"Years ago I exposed myself to the possibility that Judaism might have great truths to offer, and Chever Torah (Jewish Bible study) rewarded my open mind with radical improvements in the way I live and view my Christian faith." -from the Introduction After he spent five years attending Chever Torah, Athol Dickson found his faith radically changed-the result being a deeper relationship with God. In beautiful and simple language, The Gospel according to Moses illustrates Dickson's journey of faith exploring some of the primary theological differences and similarities between Christianity and Judaism. He draws generously on both Old and New Testament scriptures, looking at Christian and Jewish perspectives on topics such as suffering, grace vs. works, and the place of Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures.Table of Contents1. God on the Spot: Dealing with Doubts 2. Our Mutual God: Finding Meaning in Monotheism 3. God in Chains: Why God Lets Me Suffer 4. Yes and Yes: Understanding Scriptural Paradox 5. The Beautiful Terror: Approaching the God of "Fire and Brimstone" 6. Spiritual Suicide: Why It Is So Easy to Be Bad 7. Pitching Tabernacles: Finding Connections between Obedience and God's Grace 8. The Small Print: Christians and the Laws of Moses 9. Up From the Well: Reconciliation with God 10. Skeletons in My Closet: Evil Christians in Spite of Jesus 11. One and All: The Trinity and monotheism 12. The Word in the Word: Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures 13. One Way: Are Jews Going to Hell?

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Book SynopsisThis engaging book guides readers through one of the most colorful books of the Bible, illuminating passages from Acts that show the Christian gospel expressing itself through the lives, speech, struggles, and adventures of Jesus's followers. The book emphasizes the disruptive character of the Christian gospel and shows how Acts repeatedly describes God as upsetting the status quo by changing people's lives, society's conventions, and our basic expectations of what's possible. Suited for individual and group study, this book by a New Testament scholar with a gift for popular communication asks serious questions and eschews pat answers, bringing Acts alive for contemporary reflection on the character of God, the challenges of faith, and the church.Table of ContentsContentsIntroductionRoad Map: As You Read This BookActs 1:1-11: Waiting to GoActs 2:1-21: Making Sense of ThingsActs 2:22-41: Keeping an Old PromiseRoad Map: Emerging RealitiesActs 3:11-26 and 4:5-12: The Ultimate DisruptionActs 4:32-5:11: Communal Harmony as a Matter of Life or DeathActs 6:1-7: Growth Brings Change--and SurpriseActs 7:54-60: Using Violence to Keep God under ControlRoad Map: ExpansionsActs 8:4-25: Spiritual Power, Spiritual Gift, and Spiritual GreedActs 8:26-40: Absurdly Good NewsActs 9:1-30: Seeing a Different RealityActs 9:32-43: The Work, Pain, and Tenderness of Christian ServiceActs 10:1-11:18: Old Boundaries ObliteratedActs 12:1-19: Coming to Our SensesRoad Map: God Is Still SpeakingActs 13:1-4: Called and CommissionedActs 14:8-20: Learning to Recognize GodActs 15:1-35: Discerning GodRoad Map: Very Public DisturbancesActs 16:9-40: Battle of the GodsActs 17:16-34: The Gospel in the FleshActs 18:1-17: When the Good News Escapes AttentionActs 18:24-19:20: There's Power in the NameActs 19:21-41: Far-Reaching DisruptionsRoad Map: The Witness Goes to RomeActs 21:1-6: Spirit-Led DisagreementActs 22:30-23:11: How to Be a HeroActs 25:1-12: The Gospel and the EmpireActs 27-28: Open HorizonsConclusionFor Further ReadingIndexes

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Book Synopsis"Readers looking for ways to get involved in their communities will find plenty to motivate them in Krinks's personal testament." --Publishers Weekly At age twenty, Lindsey Krinks thought she had her life figured out. But a devastating injury and an unexpected encounter with a homeless organizing group disrupted her plans and opened her eyes to the immense suffering and injustice around her. Awakened to a fierce pursuit of justice and a faith that called her to "pray with her feet," Krinks plunged into the underside of American society, where she found both staggering loss and astounding love. As a street chaplain, activist, and cofounder of Open Table Nashville, Krinks takes us on an unforgettable spiritual journey to tent cities, alleys, slums, and the front lines of movements for justice. Praying with Our Feet challenges preconceptions about people who live on the streets, calling us to move from charity to justice and to get our hands dirty in the struggle for a better world. Readers who are dismayed by the world's suffering but don't know where to start will find much inspiration in this intimate and moving book. Includes end-of-book discussion questions for each chapter.Table of ContentsContentsAuthor's NotePrologue1. Upstream2. Descent3. Broken Soil4. Downhill5. Burning Hearts6. Wilderness7. Emergence8. Accompaniment9. Wick10. Tending Wounds11. Another WorldEpilogueDiscussion Guide

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Book Synopsis"A lighthearted yet high-minded exploration of failure's ability to serve as a gateway to grace. Readers will find this a balm."--Publishers Weekly Many of us spend our days feeling like we're the only one with problems, while everyone else has their act together. But the sooner we realize that everyone struggles like we do, the sooner we can show grace to ourselves and others. In Low Anthropology, popular author and theologian David Zahl explores how our ideas about human nature influence our expectations in friendship, work, marriage, and politics. We all go through life with an "anthropology"--an idea about what humans are like, our potentials and our limitations. A high anthropology--thinking optimistically about human nature--can breed perfectionism, anxiety, burnout, loneliness, and resentment. Meanwhile, Zahl invites readers into a biblically rooted and surprisingly life-giving low anthropology, which fosters hope, deep connection with others, lasting love, vulnerability, compassion, and happiness. Zahl offers a liberating view of human nature, sin, and grace, showing why the good news of Christianity is both urgent and appealing. By embracing a more accurate view of human beings, readers will discover a true and lasting hope.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction1. The Problem of High AnthropologyPart 1: The Shape of Low Anthropology2. Limitation: Or, Modesty Is the Best Policy3. Doubleness: Or, Can't Stop Won't Stop4. Self-centeredness: Or, Control Freaks AnonymousPart 2: The Mechanics of Low Anthropology5. How We Avoid Low Anthropology6. The Fruit of Low AnthropologyPart 3: The Life of Low Anthropology7. Low Anthropology and the Self8. Low Anthropology in Relationships9. Low Anthropology in Politics10. Low Anthropology in ReligionConclusion

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Book SynopsisThe world of work is changing rapidly. As a Christian trying to discern the right career path, you might perceive the marketplace as a bewildering and anxiety-provoking place. You might even worry you’ll have to sacrifice your values to have a successful career. How can you hope to find work that is informed by faith and that serves God’s will? Redeeming Work was written to answer just this question. The author, Bryan Dik, PhD, is one of the leading psychologists in the world who specializes in vocation. A professor, entrepreneur, and follower of Christ, Dik wrote this book as a labor of love after devoting his career to research and development of practical strategies for helping others find purposeful work. His message: there are abundant opportunities for Christians to forge careers that answer God’s calling for their lives. In Redeeming Work, he shares the tools you need to find these opportunities and pursue them successfully. Your purchase of Redeeming Work comes with a special bonus: free access to an evidence-based online career assessment system called PathwayU. By taking this assessment, you’ll learn about what makes you unique, including what you enjoy (interests), what matters to you (values), your general tendencies (personality), and what you most need from an organization (workplace preferences). Then, you’ll be able to explore career paths (and current job openings) that fit the pattern of gifts God has given you. Trade Review“In a day when we are inundated with trivial information, it is delightfully refreshing to stumble upon a rich repository of practical wisdom. Redeeming Work is a surprisingly rare and priceless find for anyone who desires to pursue a life well lived. Integrating timeless wisdom as well as the latest social science research, Bryan Dik brings a welcome and much needed voice to the crucially important matter of discerning and living into one’s calling. I highly recommend it!”—Tom Nelson, DMin, president of Made to Flourish and author of Work Matters: Connecting Sunday Worship to Monday Work “For years I’ve been waiting for this book to be written. In the Christian community we needed someone who could weave Biblical and theological frameworks with on-the-ground research about work and calling. Now Bryan Dik has cultivated this intersection. With great clarity, he describes social science findings about gift assessments, occupational connections, job search processes, and changing work dynamics. But, most importantly, this book provides a big frame through which to understand our Christian callings, as people created, challenged, redeemed, and contributing within God’s story. Bryan’s scholarship, examples, and commentary are powerful tools for guiding our lives and finding Christian joy in the process. I will recommend this book to my friends, fellow church members, professional colleagues, and adult children.”—Shirley J. Roels, PhD, executive director, International Network for Christian Higher Education “Do you have eyes that see? One of the most ancient of questions, it is still one of the most important questions, running through the meaning of everyone’s life and labor. In Redeeming Work, the seamless character of our work in the world is set forth with unusual clarity. Thinking across the disciplines, especially the richness of theological vision and the rigor of scientific insight, Bryan Dik brings years of thoughtful reflection on why work matters, and how we find our way into work that matters— yes, developing eyes to see why our work is integral to the very work of God. University students anywhere and everywhere, on their way into the rest of life, will be graced by a careful reading of this good book.”—Steven Garber, PhD, professor of marketplace theology, Regent College, and author of Visions of Vocation: Common Grace for the Common Good “Redeeming Work offers a fresh, research-informed, and practical roadmap to help Christians discern their callings in the workplace. Drawing on timeless wisdom from Scripture and modern insights from vocational psychology, Dik wisely reminds the reader to start their discernment journey by locating one’s own particular story within God’s larger story.”—David W. Miller, PhD, director of Princeton University’s Faith Work Initiative “Redeeming Work is an evidence-based book full of practical, actionable advice to Christians seeking to flourish in their work and their faith. To live your calling is a choice: Bryan Dik explains the research and provides the tools to help make that choice a reality in your life…today.”—Christine B. Whelan, PhD, clinical professor, School of Human Ecology, University of Wisconsin, and author of The Big Picture: A Guide to Finding Your Purpose in Life “Redeeming Work gives actionable advice to Christians seeking to discern their calling. Dr. Dik exquisitely positions his expertise in vocational psychology in the broader context of God’s story—creation, fall, redemption, and renewal—helping people see the bigger picture of God’s purpose for their work. Readers will find proven tools to both sharpen their hearing of God’s call and to steward their gifts for the common good and for His glory.”—Bill Peel, DMin, executive director of the Center for Faith Work at LeTourneau University “As followers of Jesus, we’ve been given redemption, and one way we give thanks is to respond to this gift in our life and work. Redeeming Work merges sound theological reasoning, solid research from vocational psychology, and practical guidance from the frontline of the workplace to guide readers through a process of discovery. This process of self-discovery and reflection equips the reader with the insight needed for full participation in Christ’s ongoing work of redemption. Redeeming Work is a trustworthy and essential guide for any person of faith on a journey to discover his or her place of flourishing in this world.”—Michael K. Le Roy, PhD, president, Calvin University “Redeeming Work happens when God’s truth in the Bible meets God’s truth in vocational psychology. If you want practical advice for discerning your call, this book is for you. Dr. Bryan Dik has spent much of his life pursuing the integration of faith and work. His deep faith and his expertise in vocational psychology bring new evidence-based wisdom to the vocational discernment process. Terrific book.”—John Van Sloten, author of Every Job a Parable and The Day Metallica Came to Church “Bryan Dik offers an excellent resource for Christians who worry about whether their careers ‘line up’ with God’s plan for their lives. The author takes his readers’ theological commitments seriously, but coaxes them away from certain ‘half-truths’ that tend to become obstacles to discerning a call (‘I should just pray and wait’ or ‘I’m not good at this work, but God still wants me to do it’). Dik’s step-by-step suggestions make this book useful not only for young people who are discerning their future vocations, but for anyone interested in setting out in a new direction—as well as those who simply want to understand how their current career paths reflect their deeper callings.”—David S. Cunningham, PhD, director, Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education, Council of Independent Colleges, and professor of religion, Hope College

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Book SynopsisA chronicle of the historically rich spiritual gatherings so vital to rural African American life.Camp meetings—also called revivals—originated with circuit-riding Methodist preachers who gathered congregations in open fields and town squares. However, the sermons had messages that were not always welcomed by mainstream Protestant churches in the colonial and antebellum South. With the help of white itinerant preachers, enslaved African Americans organized their own camp meetings in conjunction with the white revivals. These celebratory events were predominantly spiritual, with preaching, worship, and communion, but also provided opportunities for family reunions. After the Civil War, independent African American congregations built on this antebellum heritage by establishing permanent camps that continue to welcome meetings today.In A Place to Worship, Minuette Floyd shares an intimate portrait of the culture, traditions, and long history of the camp meeting as one of the most vital institutions in the lives of rural African Americans in North and South Carolina. As a child Floyd attended camp meetings each year in North Carolina, and she renewed her interest in them as an adult. For the past eighteen years Floyd has travelled to campgrounds throughout the Carolinas, documenting the annual tradition through photographs and interviews. Floyd has sought to record not only a visual record of the places and practices of each, but also the rich and inspiring stories of the people who make them thrive.Terry K. Hunter, executive director of the Fine Arts Cultural Enrichment Teaching Studios, provides a foreword, and Tom Stanley, Department of Fine Arts chair emeritus at Winthrop University, offers an introduction.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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