Religion and beliefs Books

Book SynopsisClear and illuminating commentary on one of Bodhidharma?s most important texts?designed to help Chan practitioners apply timeless and essential advice to their practice Legend has it that more than a thousand years ago an Indian Buddhist monk named Bodhidharma arrived in China. His approach to teaching was unlike that of any of the Buddhist missionaries who had come to China before him. He confounded the emperor with cryptic dialogues, traveled the country, lived in a cave in the mountains, and eventually paved the way for a unique and illuminating approach to Buddhist teachings that would later spread across the whole of East Asia in the form of Chan?later to be known as Seon in Korean, Thien in Vietnamese, and Zen in Japanese. This book, a translation and commentary on one of Bodhidharma?s most important texts, explores Bodhidharma?s revolutionary teachings in English. Guo Gu weaves his commentary through modern and relatable contexts, showing that this centuries-old wisdom is just as crucial for life now as it was when it first came to be. Masterfully translated and accompanied by helpful insights to supplement daily practice, The Essence of Chan is the perfect guide for those new to Chan, those returning, or those who have been practicing for years.

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Book SynopsisThis groundbreaking book shares the evolution of Cynthia Bourgeault''s spiritual journey and offers a new map to understanding energy and our collective reality.In Eye of the Heart, Cynthia Bourgeault investigates the imaginal realm--an energetic realm well known to the mystical traditions but often forgotten in our own times. It is invisible to the physical eye, but clearly perceptible through the eye of the heart. The imaginal realm has long been associated with the personal world of dreams, prophecy, and oracles, and it also points toward a higher vision of our human purpose that is both evolutionary and collective. Bourgeault explores both aspects of imaginal reality and shows readers how we can cooperate more fully with its guidance in our lives.Expertly blending her own lived experiences with research on the imaginal realm, Bourgeault explores how her personal relationships have helped to bring these teachings into sharper focus and the role this realm plays in Christian and other mystical traditions. She delves into the connections between our inner consciousness and what happens in the world, exploring the transformative energy and governing conventions that make the manifestation of this realm possible. Eye of the Heart presents Bourgeault''s spiritual journey with the imaginal realm and encourages readers to attune their hearts for the well-being of the world.

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Book SynopsisThis sweeping collection of new translations paints a brilliant picture of the development of Ch?an (Zen) Buddhism, China?s most radical philosophical and meditative tradition.In this landmark anthology of some two dozen translations, celebrated translator David Hinton shows how Ch''an (Japanese: Zen)?too long considered a perplexing school of Chinese Buddhism?was in truth a Buddhist-inflected form of Taoism, China''s native system of spiritual philosophy. The texts in The Way of Ch?an build from seminal Taoism through the ?Dark-Enigma Learning? literature and on to the most important pieces from all stages of the classical Ch?an tradition. Guided by Hinton?s accessible introductions, readers will encounter texts and authors including: I Ching (c. 12th century BCE) Lao Tzu (c. 6th century BCE Bodhidharma (active c. 500-550 CE) Sixth Patriarch Prajna-Able (Hui Neng, 638-713) Cold Mountain (Han Shan: c. 8th-9th centuries) Yellow-Bitterroot Mountain (Huang Po, d. 850) Blue-Cliff Record (c. 1040) Through this steadily deepening and transformative reading experience, readers will see the profound and intricate connections between native Chinese philosophy, Taoism, and Ch?an. Contemporary Zen students and practitioners will never see their tradition in the same way again.

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Book SynopsisAccording to the Buddha’s teaching in the Anapanasati Sutra, maintaining awareness of our breathing is a means of awakening to the true nature of all things and arriving at spiritual liberation. Breathe, You Are Alive outlines 16 exercises of conscious breathing that were taught by the Buddha, together with commentaries and further exercises for practicing them every day and in any situation. Thich Nhat Hanh’s insights and explanation give the reader access to the profound nourishment available when we slow down and get in touch with our in-breath and out-breath. He walks the reader through the progression of exercises—from awareness of the physical plane, to the mental and spiritual planes—in a clear and concise manner that is easy to implement. This 20th anniversary edition includes Thich Nhat Hanh’s most recent commentaries and practices on the awareness of breathing meditation, as well as his “Breathing and Walking” Gatha (practice verse) set to music.

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Book SynopsisA Pulitzer Prize nominee and the bestselling author of Emotional Intelligence bridges modern science with the spiritual wisdom of the East This extraordinary series of encounters between the Dalai Lama and prominent Western psychologists, physicians, and meditation teachers sheds new light on the mind-body connectionCan the mind heal the body? The Buddhist tradition says yes—and now many Western scientists are beginning to agree. These discussions between the Dalai Lama and this group of prominent physicians, psychologists, philosophers, and behaviorists could not be more timely. The book is a record of the third Mind and Life Conference, a meeting that took place in Dharamsala, India, gathering Buddhist teachers and Western scholars to discuss questions that provide a framework for an ongoing dialogue between psychology and Buddhism. Edited with a new foreword by Daniel Goleman, this exploration of stress, death, meditation, self-compassion—and much more—underscores the timeliness and significance of working together, across scientific and religious aisles, for the greater benefit of humankind.

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Book SynopsisOffers a vision of how Islam first evolved. This title argues that the origins of Islam lie in what we may call the Believers' movement begun by the prophet Muhammad - a movement of religious reform emphasizing strict monotheism and righteous behavior in conformity with God's revealed law.Trade ReviewDonner is one of the leading scholars of early Islam in the world. No other book I know of distills the often highly arcane and dispersed stuff of scholarship on the first century of Islamic history into such an accessible narrative account that, in addition, offers a compelling new interpretation on the formation of Islamic confessional identity. A tremendous achievement. -- Ahmet Karamustafa, Washington University in St. LouisThis is an invaluable book. Not only does it provide a sane and lucid guide to the origins of Islam, a topic that is currently more mired in controversy than any other in the entire field of ancient history, but it is also a stimulating and original work of scholarship in its own right. -- Tom Holland, author of MillenniumDonner presents the intriguing view that the early Islamic movement, as presided over by Muhammad, actively included Jews and Christians in the flock as part of a general monotheistic community. It was only later, after Muhammad's death, that a new generation of Muslims began ritualizing Islam with its own distinctive practices, such as the hajj (pilgrimage) and the five daily prayers...He raises many original points, gleaning evidence from everything from coinage to original source documents. Questioning longstanding stereotypes, he argues (and proves) that Muslims are not, by nature, anti-Jewish and also that, based on archeological evidence, Muslims did not routinely tear down churches. The early Muslims, though brutal in war, created a sophisticated and organized civil system. For those curious about Islam's beginnings, no book is as original and as evenhanded as this succinct read. * Publishers Weekly *In Muhammad and the Believers: At the Origins of Islam, Donner takes a fresh look at the heart and soul of Islamic history. -- Joseph Richard Preville * Saudi Gazette *A learned and brilliantly original, yet concise and accessible study of Islam's formative first century...Donner's explanation of the process by which Muslims came to define themselves is both fascinating and enlightening. -- Max Rodenbeck * New York Times *It is an excellent introduction to how and why the faith was born, and explains its proliferation in the Middle East and beyond...Donner uses the original text of the Qur'an and other source materials dating from the same period to piece together the history of the faith. What quickly becomes clear is that Islam, and what it means to be a "Muslim," have both changed dramatically since the early days...Muhammad and the Believers is full...of intriguing questions and challenges readers to reconsider what they think they know about Islam...[It's] a rewarding read. -- Dan Sampson * culturemob.com *Donner is to be commended for posing questions that many mainstream scholars have chosen to leave aside. -- Malise Ruthven * New York Review of Books *Provocative and accessible...Donner's vision of an "ecumenical Islam" is thought-provoking...Donner's overarching thesis in Muhammad and the Believers is convincing. It sheds light on a world far more fluid and confused than the one we have come to expect from the usual storyline. -- Christian C. Sahner * Times Literary Supplement *

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Book SynopsisCompiled and translated in large part by St. Jerome, the Vulgate Bible influenced Western literature, art, music, education, theology, and political history through the Renaissance. Professors at Douay, then at Rheims, translated it into English to combat Protestant vernacular Bibles. Volume VI presents the entire New Testament.

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Book SynopsisThis book encourages and equips Bible teachers to answer the challenges and questions of skeptics, offering practical guidance and real-world examples related to engaging in apologetic conversations.

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Book SynopsisThis stunning biography reveals the heroic life of Yeshé Tsogyal—the mother of Buddhism in Tibet and a powerful female role model for spiritual accomplishment and perfection This secret life story of Yeshé Tsogyal presents a valuable and unique perspective that is quite a departure from any other account of this remarkable woman. Described as a "secret life story," its many layers include an outer account—detailing her birth, family, and societal constraints—an inner account that begins as she meets and escapes captivity with Guru Rinpoché, and a secret account as she enters twelve years of retreat at Chimpu only to miraculously journey to Oddiyana. The role of women and womanhood is notable throughout her life story. Her desire for independence is at odds with her desirability as a woman, leading to numerous tragic incidents early in life. Finally meeting Guru Rinpoché, she decries her status as a woman. This sort of gendered humility, a recurring theme, is juxtaposed with her assertion that despite being a woman, and low-born (skye ba dman), she has a high regard for herself anyway. It is a magical woman who guides her to Oddiyana, and her travels there are filled with primarily female companions. In the end, she remains Guru Rinpoché''s primary disciple and doctrinal custodian. Her experiences, while perhaps intense and fantastical, include the same elements of challenge, learning, and progress that all practitioners must experience. During her adventures in Oddiyana, Yeshé Tsogyal receives the same core teachings on faith, impermanence, and fortitude that are essential for anyone following this spiritual path. This accomplished translation is enriched by the refreshing insights of six contemporary scholars and teachers of Tibetan Buddhism, making this invaluable guide to the life of Yeshé Tsogyal a treasure for practitioners, scholars, and anyone intent on the possibility of awakening.

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Book SynopsisYoung focuses on the historical development and theological significance of parables in the Jewish and Christian traditions, examining parallels between the rabbinic and Gospel parables.

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Book SynopsisA respected teacher presents the core and essential wisdom of Tibet and shows us the possibilities of "enlightenment in this present life" through the meditative practice of Pure Awareness. Perhaps the most precious teaching Tibet has to offer the modern world is the practice of meditation. Reginald Ray presents the essence of this tradition through the somatic practice of Pure Awareness—a unique kind of meditation that is thoroughly grounded in the body and in ordinary experience. This fundamentally transformative practice offers the possibility of enlightenment in this present life and invites us into the immensely powerful journey that Tibetan tantric spirituality has to offer. Includes a link to a free download of audio meditations.

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Book SynopsisBased on Dr. Caroline Leaf's The Perfect You, this nine week curriculum helps participants discover and harness the unique, God-wired thinking pattern that shapes how they make choices--so they can live out their purpose and achieve true success.

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Book SynopsisBe Still is an immensely practical book from 24-7 Prayer's Brian Heasley that explores rhythms of prayer and devotion to help us spend quiet time with God in the midst of a full and fast-paced life.Trade ReviewWhether you are experienced in the daily habit of ‘Quiet Time’ with God, starting out or seeking refreshment, I wholeheartedly commend this beautiful book. A witty, vulnerable, utterly practical, rich and creative guide, it will assist every genuine seeker after God. * The Rt Revd Sophie Jelley, Bishop of Doncaster *

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Book SynopsisA TIMES AND SUNDAY TIMES SCIENCE BOOK OF THE YEAR Without our realising it, a single, slippery concept has become a secular deity throughout the modern industrial world. We make terrible sacrifices in its name: of our money, our health, and our planet. That deity is nature itself. From supermarket shoppers to evolutionary biologists, from atheists to pastors, from Alex Jones to Gwyneth Paltrow, we are all prone to the intuitive faith that life should be lived 'naturally'. But nature can't teach us how to live. If we try to stick to its imagined commands, eschewing human artifice in pursuit of Edenic purity, we jeopardise the environment, our health, and our society. (We also waste a lot of money on pots of weird slime). It is time to accept our profound responsibility to shape the world of which our technology and our selves are wholly a part.Trade ReviewAn indispensable read ... The romanticisation of the "natural" is, Levinovitz notes, rooted in privilege. Only those who enjoy a lifestyle sufficiently protected from the ravages of nature have the licence to romanticise it. -- Kenan Malik * Guardian *Remarkably wide-ranging ... Subtle and serious ... The section on Goop is almost painfully sharp -- James McConnachie * Sunday Times *Concise and imaginative ... A tour de force -- Daniel Akst * Wall Street Journal *Levinovitz's book is an important call for more nuance over simplicity, for compromise over dogmatism, and for embracing uncertainty over certainty. * Science *A useful corrective to lazy thinking * Guardian *Despite Levinovitz taking smart aim at the snake-oil salespeople of late capitalism - those selling expensive natural remedies, natural "cures" for cancer, or loudly advocating "wholly natural" childbirth, sex or sport - he concludes that there is something innately glorious about the non-human natural world. What Levinovitz critiques is what he sees as a religious attitude towards nature. An appeal to natural goodness - with "unnatural" as its evil twin - is among the most influential arguments in all human thought, ancient and modern, east and west. -- Patrick Barkham * Guardian *This is important stuff, as evidenced every time someone discusses the supposed naturalness and thus supposed inevitability of some appalling human behavior. [Natural] is a superb book­ - fascinating, accessible, elegantly written, and deeply thought-provoking. -- Robert M. Sapolsky * author of Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst *In a fascinating tour across time, cultures, and ideas, Alan Levinovitz shows us how the worship of an abstract idea of nature can lead us astray in everything from our health to the laws we pass and even how we structure our governments and our way of life. This book is required reading for anyone who wants to face the scientific and moral challenges of 21st century with a clear head. -- Tom Nichols * author of The Death of Expertise *Alan Levinovitz provides a bracing corrective to our often misplaced faith in all things derived from nature. Throughout its exploration of a fascinating range of issues, from vanilla to wolves, the book is both thoughtful and addictively readable. -- Deborah Blum * author of The Poison Squad *evocative, convincing ... this argument for removing "natural" from the altar of absolute good will certainly start conversations, particularly among naturalists and environmentalists. * Publisher's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisA modern guide to the transformative practice of silent illumination from Chan Buddhist teacher Rebecca Li.Silent illumination, a way of penetrating the mind through curious inquiry, is an especially potent, accessible, and portable meditation practice perfectly suited for a time when there is so much fear, upheaval, and sorrow in our world. It is a method of reconnecting with our true nature, which encompasses all that exists and where suffering cannot touch us.The practice of silent illumination is simple, allowing each moment to be experienced as it is in order to manifest our innate wisdom and natural capacity for compassion. It can be integrated into all aspects of daily life and is meaningful for secular and Buddhist audiences, new and seasoned meditators alike. After guiding readers through the history and practice of silent illumination, Rebecca Li shows us how we can recognize and unlearn our ?modes of operation??habits of mind that get in the way of being fully present and engaged with life. Cultivating clarity on the empty nature of these habits offers us a way to unlearn and free ourselves from unhelpful modes such as harshness to self, perfectionism, quietism, striving for spiritual attainment, and more.Illumination offers stories and real-life examples, references to classic Buddhist texts, and insights from Chan Master Sheng Yen to guide readers as they practice silent illumination not just on their cushions, but throughout their lives.

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Book SynopsisA Prophetic Call to Holy Living.

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Book SynopsisAn imaginative approach to spiritual practice in difficult times, through the Buddhist teaching of the six paramitas or "perfections"—qualities that lead to kindness, wisdom, and an awakened life.In frightening times, we wish the world could be otherwise. With a touch of imagination, it can be. Imagination helps us see what’s hidden, and it shape-shifts reality’s roiling twisting waves. In this inspiring reframe of a classic Buddhist teaching, Zen teacher Norman Fischer writes that the paramitas, or “six perfections”—generosity, ethical conduct, patience, joyful effort, meditation, and understanding—can help us reconfigure the world we live in. Ranging from our everyday concerns about relationships, ethics, and consumption to our artistic inspirations and broadest human yearnings, Fischer depicts imaginative spiritual practice as a necessary resource for our troubled times.

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Book Synopsis''A powerful corrective'' Guardian ''This should be compulsory reading'' Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk RoadsFor anyone interested in the future of Islam, both in Britain and the Islamic world, this is an important book' The Times The gulf between Islam and the West is widening. A faith rich with strong values and traditions, observed by nearly two billion people is seen by the West as something to be feared rather than understood. Sensational headlines and hard-line policies spark enmity, while ignoring the feelings, narratives and perceptions that preoccupy Muslims today. The House of Islam seeks to provide entry to the minds and hearts of Muslims the world over. It introduces us to the kindness of Mohammed, the beauty of Islamic art and the permeation of the divine in public spaces; and the tension between mysticism and literalism that still threatens the religion. Ed Husain expertly and compassionately guides us through tTrade ReviewA powerful and impassioned polemic ... This is strong stuff. And it is a compelling thesis from a British Muslim writer whose relationship with Islam has evolved dramatically over time -- Justin Marozzi * Sunday Times *Not just timely but important too ... This should be compulsory reading -- Peter Frankopan, author of 'The Silk Roads'The House of Islam is a plea for the renewal of classical, traditional Islam against its extreme and politicised versions … For anyone interested in the future of Islam, both in Britain and the Islamic world, this is an important book -- David Goodhart * The Times *The House of Islam is a long awaited and desperately needed book from one of our foremost thinkers at the nexus of civil society and theology ... Incisive and thought-provoking -- Bruce Hoffman, author of 'Inside Terrorism'Husain's account is not sensationalist, tending more to understatement than to hyperbole ... A complete eye-opener -- Praise for 'The Islamist' * The Times *Captivating, and terrifyingly honest ... a wake-up call to monocultural Britain, it takes you into the mind of young fundamentalists, exposing places in which the old notion of being British is defunct -- Praise for 'The Islamist' * Observer *Persuasive and stimulating -- Praise for 'The Islamist', Martin AmisAll who glibly generalise about the no-man's-land between terrorism and multiculturalism should read this articulate and impassioned book -- Simon Jenkins * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisA LOS ANGELES TIMES BESTSELLER In the face of systemic racism and state-sanctioned violence, how can we metabolize our anger into a force for liberation?White supremacy in the United States has long necessitated that Black rage be suppressed, repressed, or denied, often as a means of survival, a literal matter of life and death. In Love and Rage, Lama Rod Owens, coauthor of Radical Dharma, shows how this unmetabolized anger--and the grief, hurt, and transhistorical trauma beneath it--needs to be explored, respected, and fully embodied to heal from heartbreak and walk the path of liberation. This is not a book about bypassing anger to focus on happiness, or a road map for using spirituality to transform the nature of rage into something else. Instead, it is one that offers a potent vision of anger that acknowledges and honors its power as a vehicle for radical social change and enduring spiritual transformation.Love and Rage weaves the inimitable wisdom and lived experience of Lama Rod Owens with Buddhist philosophy, practical meditation exercises, mindfulness, tantra, pranayama, ancestor practices, energy work, and classical yoga. The result is a book that serves as both a balm and a blueprint for those seeking justice who can feel overwhelmed with anger--and yet who refuse to relent. It is a necessary text for these times.

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Book SynopsisThe enemy uses fear as a tactic to torment and attack us--but Jesus came to destroy fear and set captives free. Using real-life examples, John Ramirez, once a satanic high priest, helps you find peace and purpose so you can walk fearlessly into your destiny, dismantling every stronghold, to repel the Enemy's attacks for a life of freedom!

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Book SynopsisDiscover hidden practices, secretly transmitted in authentic Zen lineages, of using body, speech, and mind to remove obstructions to awakening.Though Zen is best known for the practices of koan introspection and "just sitting" or shikantaza, there are in fact many other practices transmitted in Zen lineages. In modern practice settings, students will find that Bodhidharma''s words "direct pointing at the human mind" are little mentioned, or else taken to be simply a general descriptor of Zen rather than a crucial activity within Zen practice. Reversing this trend toward homogeneous and superficial understandings of Zen technique, Hidden Zen presents a diverse collection of practice instructions that are transmitted orally from teacher to student, unlocking a comprehensive path of awakening.This book reveals and details, for the first time, a treasury of "direct pointing" and internal energy cultivation practices preserved in the Rinzai Zen tradition. The twenty-eight practices of direct pointing offered here illuminate one''s innate clarity and, ultimately, the nature of mind itself. Over a dozen practices of internal energetic cultivation galvanize dramatic effects on the depth of one''s meditative attainment. Hidden Zen affords a small taste of the richness of authentic Zen, helping readers grow beyond the bounds of introspection and sitting to find awakening itself.

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Book SynopsisNewell explores the way Celtic spirituality is characterised by listening for God within ourselves, others and the whole of creation. He illustrates his book with writings such as the Carmina Gadelica, a collection of traditional folk poetry.

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Book SynopsisTom Wright has completed a tremendous task: to provide comprehensive guides to all the books of the New Testament, and to furnish them with his own fresh translation of the entire text. Each short passage is followed by a highly readable commentary with helpful background information. The format makes it appropriate also for daily study.Trade Review'Each book is written in Wright's familiar, accessible language and can be used for either individual or group study to enhance reader understanding of the Bible.' Life and Work 'This enterprise is probably the most exciting thing to have happened in Christian education for many years.' Expository Times

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Book SynopsisThe aim of this little book is simple: to help you to see more clearly, love more dearly and follow more nearly the way of Jesus Christ.Trade ReviewHere is quite the most beautiful writing on discipleship I know. I am grateful for the inspiration that I find in these pages. I commend it to those who have been on this journey a long time, as well as to anyone who wonders what on earth following Jesus is all about. * Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury *Whether you are just starting to explore the Christian faith, or have been a follower of Jesus for years, here is an essential guide for the journey. Drawing deeply on scripture and on inspiring stories of fellow travellers, Rowan Williams writes with a gentle strength that witnesses to the joy to be found in being disciples of Jesus. * Kate Bottley, Gogglebox vicar, writer, broadcaster and parish priest *In this gentle and challenging book, Rowan Williams gives us both a clear explanation of what discipleship is and a stirring vision of what our discipleship can do. It is a beautifully crafted book that gives the reader real food for thought and sustenance for the journey . . . Each chapter would make for wonderful house group discussion material. * Jude Levermore, Head of Discipleship & Ministries, The Methodist Church *Rowan Williams is one of the great theologians of our time. He is also an inspiring teacher whose godly wisdom helps us understand profound truths. * Nicky Gumbel, Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton and pioneer of the Alpha Course *A wonderful book. . . It perfectly encapsulates the well-worn phrase "simplicity on the other side of complexity", which makes it accessible as well as heart-warming. . . This gem of a book is clearly born of the authors own deep love for Jesus Himself. * Eleanor Mumford, founder of Vineyard Churches, UK and Ireland *If discipleship is a journey, this book belongs in the rucksack. . . Like the scriptures on which it is based, it deserves repeated reading. * Stephen Cherry, Dean of Kings College, Cambridge *I finished the book with slight surprise: being disciples seems do-able, even with the challenges! I hope this book will be read and shared so that others may be encouraged in being disciples. -- Dr Anne Spalding a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis * Church Times *A rich treasure trove. * Theology *Table of Contents1. Being disciples;2. Faith, hope and love;3. Forgiveness;4. Holiness;5. Faith in Society;6. Life in the Spirit

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Book SynopsisFirst paperback edition of Tom Wright's hugely popular translation of the New Testament, now with fresh introductions to each book plus a helpful glossary of key words and phrases.Trade Review'A remarkable achievement. . . Tom Wright has a very attractive feel for English; and the mere fact of producing a fresh translation that is both scholarly and written in non-repellent language makes this work a major triumph.' * Expository Times *'Fresh, insightful and accessible. . . this translation directs the reader to new lines of thought and reflection, especially helpful with some of the best known and perhaps over-familiar passages. . . An excellent resource.' * The Reader *'I love the easy flow of the narrative, and the way it is broken down into bite-sized chunks. . . This truly is a book for Everyone.' * The Good Bookstall *

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Book SynopsisThe Robot Will See You Now by John Wyatt and Stephen N. Williams explores developments in artificial intelligence and robotics, and considers how Christians can prepare for the challenges they pose.Trade ReviewOffers an array of insights from some of the world’s leaders in healthcare, employment, security, and the arts [in] a beautifully written, concise treatise . . . perfect for the casual reader. * Christianity on THE ROBOT WILL SEE YOU NOW *A real treasure: encouraging, heart-warming, informative and sensible. It answers the concern of many Christian doctors that the will o’ the wisp of medical imperialism has led the Christian community astray into excessive medicalisation of the process of dying, to the detriment of spiritual and family matters. This is a book for everyone, which will change souls for the better. -- Andrew Sims, Past President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Professor of Psychiatry Emeritus of the University of Leeds on DYING WELL (IVP, 2018)The book's brilliance lies in the effortless way John blends deep biblical insight, long experience of compassionately accompanying the old, middle-aged, young and very young through their death, world-class medical expertise, and clear-eyed cultural critique of the way over-medicalisation has worked to strip dying of its potential to nourish spiritual growth, relational healing and enriching leave-taking. Full of careful, wise practical advice for the dying, and for all those involved, what emerges is a gentle, unsentimental, moving and liberating gift to us all. -- Mark Greene is Executive Director at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity on DYING WELL (IVP, 2018)We can ask for no wiser nor honest, practical and compassionate guide. -- Timothy Dudley-Smith on DYING WELL (IVP, 2018)

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Book Synopsis“What is heaven?” wonders Sister Bear. Follow along in The Berenstain Bears Learn About Heaven, as Sister searches for an answer to this very good and sometimes complicated question. This welcome addition to The Berenstain Bears collection can be used as a tool for conversation for families, churches, schools and more!

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Book SynopsisBruno Latour s long term project is to compare the felicity and infelicity conditions of the different values dearest to the heart of those who have never been modern . According to him, this is the only way to develop an anthropology of the Moderns.Trade Review"In a book both informative and transformative, Latour may well have succeeded in his aim to ‘reboot the teeniest hint of a beginning of a religious sentiment’" Southern Semiotic Review "Rejoicing is a kind of meditation: Latour has composed, in Yeats’ phrase, a dialogue of self and soul.” Chicago Tribune "In this honest , profound yet accessible book, a distinguished French scholar and public intellectual carries on an agonized dialog with himself as he faces the obstacles to religious faith today - and then points toward a resolution. As I read, I felt he had climbed into my soul." John O’Malley, Georgetown University "Rejoicing constitutes a creative, thought-provoking and impressive blend of, and reflection upon, learning and traditions." Rebecca Catto, Coventry University

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Book SynopsisIn this age of limitless digital connections, we are somehow lonelier than ever. This isn''t just bad news--it''s dangerous news. Loneliness puts us at greater health risk than smoking or obesity, but we would sooner label ourselves overweight than admit we are lonely. It is a secret that is killing us.Contrary to all our efforts, the answer is not found in more connections, but deeper ones that mirror God himself as the originator of friendship and the original Friend. The Art of Friendship walks with you into a greater understanding of how God has equipped you to be a friend and to have meaningful friendships. With step-by-step guidance, you will begin to strategize how to fulfill your divine calling as a friend. And through God''s Word, as you come to understand the depth and width and breadth of God as Friend, you will discover that the spiritual discipline of friendship is both life-changing and life-giving.

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Book SynopsisA highly regarded New Testament scholar offers a substantive evangelical commentary on James in the award-winning BECNT series.Table of ContentsSeries PrefaceAuthor's PrefaceAbbreviationsTransliterationMapIntroduction to JamesI. Salutation (1:1)II. Overview of the Life of Faith (1:2-27)A. Faith and Wisdom (1:2-8)B. Pride and Wealth (1:9-12)C. Faith and Testing (1:13-18)D. Doing the Word of God (1:19-25)E. True Religion (1:26-27)III. First Discourse: Faith and Behavior (2:1-26)A. Part 1: Faith, Favoritism, and Law (2:1-13)B. Part 2: Faith and Works (2:14-26)IV. Second Discourse: Faith, Wisdom, and Speech Ethics (3:1-18)A. Part 1: Teachers, Tongues, and Turmoil (3:1-12)B. Part 2: Wisdom from Above (3:13-18)V. Third Discourse: Strife in the Church as Lack of Faith (4:1-12)A. Part 1: Lusts and Repentance (4:1-10)B. Part 2: Defamation and Censure (4:11-12)VI. Interjection: Two Oracles of Warning (4:13-5:6)A. Oracle 1: Warning to Merchants (4:13-17)B. Oracle 2: Warning to Landlords (5:1-6)VII. Fourth Discourse: Looking to God (5:7-18)A. Part 1: Faith and Patience (5:7-11)B. Bridge Verse: Prohibition of Oaths (5:12)C. Part 2: Faith and Prayer (5:13-18)VIII. Closing Exhortation: Mutual Responsibility and Blessing (5:19-20)Excursus 1: Faith as the Central Concern of JamesExcursus 2: Faith, Works, and Justification in James and PaulExcursus 3: James and WisdomExcursus 4: James and SufferingWorks CitedIndex of SubjectsIndex of AuthorsIndex of Greek WordsIndex of Scripture and Other Ancient Writings

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Book SynopsisAt the beginning of his gospel, John refers to Jesus Christ as the Logos--the "Word." Ronning makes a case that the Jewish Targums--interpretive translations of the Old Testament into Aramaic that were read in synagogues--hold the key to understanding John's Logos title.

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