Religious and spiritual figures Books

Book SynopsisThe authorized biography of John Habgood by one of the people who knew him best, that 'ecclesiastical version of Alan Bennett', Bishop David WilbourneTrade ReviewAn absolutely beautiful piece of work which well catches Archbishop Habgood, the last Anglican theologian I used to make the walk to the Lords’ chamber to hear speak. Lord Habgood would smile with pleasure and amusement to read it. -- Matthew ParrisFew are better placed than David Wilbourne to open up the life of one of the twentieth century's great Anglican figures. Scientist of precocious prodigy, shooter of silent looks, sincerely loved pastor and friend; all the sides of the astonishing man that was John Habgood are brought to life here with wit, poignancy, and affection. -- Fergus Butler-Gallie, author of A Field Guide to the English ClergyBeautiful, humorous, touching and revealing. -- Justin Welby, Archbishop of CanterburyWith all the wit and originality of his earlier books, David Wilbourne offers a warm, perceptive portrait of one of the great Anglican intellects of the last hundred years. Those who thought John Habgood only a cerebral and rather remote personality will find a very three-dimensional figure here; and we are given some sense of just what a rich – and sometimes even risky – contribution Archbishop Habgood made to the good of both society and Church. -- Lord Rowan Williams, Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge and Archbishop of Canterbury (2002-12)Lord Habgood was a towering presence, physically, intellectually, and spiritually, and David paints a wonderful picture of this sorely missed servant of God. -- John Sentamu, Archbishop of York (2005-20)‘In this excellent biography the true John Habgood emerges . . . I count it a huge privilege to have worked closely with John, a wise human being and clearly one of the outstanding Archbishops of the twentieth century.’ -- Lord Carey, Archbishop of Canterbury (1991–2002)John Habgood was a man of great intellectual and moral substance who played a key role at a difficult time for the Church of England. David Wilbourne, his former chaplain, catches the essence of the man with admiration, affection and humour in this highly readable and important biography. -- Lord Richard Harries, Bishop of Oxford (1987-2006)As Archbishop’s Chaplain the author was privileged to know and understand him. For those who stood in awe of Archbishop John and thought him aloof, this book portrays a man of prayer and personal simplicity, devoted to his family and a caring pastor. The author tells the story of John Habgood with admiration, affection and with humour which brings both tears of laughter and tears of sadness at the loss of a great and wise Archbishop. -- Dame Mary TannerThis biography is perceptive, sensitive, wide-ranging, intelligent and honest, qualities which John Habgood himself possessed in abundance. It captures him magnificently and shows how very fortunate the Church of England – and the wider Church – was to have this prayerful, thoughtful, highly articulate apologist as one of its leaders, even if it did not always appreciate the great gifts he put at its disposal. -- Barry Morgan, Archbishop of Wales (2003-17)David Wilbourne’s rooted biography has taught me much about John the human being, who delighted in the sacrament of the present moment, and who seems to go on teaching me how to be a Christian and a bishop. -- Graham Usher, Bishop of NorwichWith his perceptive insights and sometimes wry sense of humour, David Wilbourne brings ‘Just John’ to life as a towering intellect, a pastor, priest and bishop bearing the huge burdens and responsibilities of both Church and state, yet never succumbing to the pettiness of factions, disputes and differences - and always seeking to bring and hold people together. -- Lord David Hope, Archbishop of York (1995-2005)A sensitive, insightful and loving portrait of a great Archbishop of York. -- George Stack, RC Archbishop of CardiffWith his customary wit and nerve to tell it as it is, David Wilbourne well catches John Habgood, who despite his alleged coldness, was one of the most genuine and gentle of men. -- Gordon Bates, Bishop of Whitby (1983-99)John Habgood was a giant of the twentieth century and no-one is better placed to write his biography than David Wilbourne . . . David has poetry in his soul and writes beautifully as well as perceptively. -- John Inge, Bishop of WorcesterSomeone described a biography as a novel with an index! As John Habgood's last Episcopal appointment, I can vouch that this is no novel. Bishop David Wilbourne, once his Chaplain, captures faithfully the public face and the private thoughts of one of the greatest bishops of the twentieth century. David ministered with him and to him. He shows how John Habgood shaped the Church of England and defined its role and relationship to the State. In these pages you'll hear the Archbishop's wisdom, feel his pastoral touch and see his vision for a Church immersed and baptized into God's world. -- James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool (1998-2013)A beautifully-crafted and intimate portrait of one of the Church of England's most profound thinkers of recent times. -- Angela Tilby, Canon Emeritus of Christ Church, Oxford, BBC Radio Four Thought for the Day contributor, author and BBC producer. . . provides a rich pageant of the life of the Church of England in the latter half of the 20th century . . . warmly recommended. * Transforming Ministry *A valuable biography of an unusually influential priest, scientist, college principal, bishop, archbishop, husband and father. -- Malcolm Grundy * Rural Theology *

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Book SynopsisFocusing on real-life situations, including many case studies, this handbook offers guidance to: the responsibilities of a churchwarden; how to become a churchwarden; working with the minister; the duties of a churchwarden through the year; what a churchwarden should know; what a churchwarden should ask; and, what to do when problems arise.Trade ReviewA very clear, pastoral guide to survival for both churchwarden and minister. * Ministry Today *Packed full of useful facts and presented in a very readable way. * thegoodbookstall *

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Book SynopsisA series of dynamic interviews by Peter Kerridge, Chief Executive of Premier Christian Radio, with eight leading Christian Entrepreneurs who share their thoughts, feelings, ideas and insight about what changes they feel would benefit the church today.

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Book SynopsisThis book will examine biblical perspectives on ambition and success, particularly from the point of view of Jesus and the gospels. It will affirm what is praiseworthy in the current emphasis on church growth, whilst challenging the creep of more secular assumptions about what it looks like to be successful.Trade ReviewBe encouraged by Bishop Emma's advice and inspired by her wisdom and humour. -- Justin Welby, Archbishop of CanterburyAn incisive, persuasive and refreshing take on leadership, Ambition reflects wide experience and scholarly depth yet is topical and accessible to all. Emma redefines the meaning of ambition in the life of a Christian, redeeming the concept from its associations of success measured in numbers. -- Archbishop Thabo MakgobaBishop Emma Ineson provides an antidote to current approaches to success, ambition and effectiveness . . . Leaders of all denominations will find her approach refreshing, performance anxiety reducing and deeply practical as she outlines how the "beatitudes for ambitious leaders" can keep us Kingdom focused and Christ-centric in the most demanding of roles. -- Simon Barrington, Founder and Director, Forge Leadership ConsultancyEmma writes with insight, honesty, passion and humour on big themes, such as ambition, power and authority, helping us look at them through the lens of faith. -- Kate Wharton, Assistant National Leader for New WineCourageous, witty and self-effacing . . . if you have ambition to live as if the kingdom is near – read this! -- Bishop Jill Duff

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Book SynopsisA celebration of the true diversity of the saints, addressing our white-washed church history.Trade ReviewMany will be moved and informed by this little book, which one hopes will be widely read thoughts the Christian communities of the world, reminds us as it does that diversity can be informed also by special kinds of devotion. -- Peter Costello * The Irish Catholic *

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Book SynopsisIn recent times, the term ‘spiritual abuse’ has become more widely used across the Christian community. But what exactly is spiritual abuse? How do we define it, recognise it, prevent it and respond to it effectively?Trade ReviewIf you are a survivor of spiritual abuse, you will recognize your pain in these pages and find help toward healing. If you are a leader, or anyone who wants to walk alongside those who are wounded in this way, here is an invaluable, practical resource for learning how to prevent, identify and respond to spiritual abuse and restore a safe Christian culture. -- Dr Wess Stafford, President Emeritus, Compassion InternationalAuthority and rigour ... great generosity and gentleness. The authors diagnose a critical problem in the church and offer practical advice on how to fix it. -- Andrew Graystone, theologian, broadcaster and communications consultantTimely and important. Lisa and Justin navigate a difficult and sensitive topic with grace, humility and strength. If you are serious about creating safer, healthier leadership cultures then read this book. -- Simon Barrington, founder and director, Forge Leadership ConsultancyLisa Oakley and Justin Humphreys have created a vital resource in this unique, timely, accessible book. It exposes the culture created by bullying leaders with clarity and compassion, and calls us towards health and freedom. Highly recommended. -- Jeff Lucas, author, speaker, broadcasterA great gift to the church, and beyond. -- Rt Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Durham

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Book SynopsisWhat is a church community without communication? This book will help you think about what we say and how we say it so that everyone can hear from the visitor to the member and those outside of the church.Trade Review'This is so helpful, practical and accessible from a master of the craft. For all those who would love tips on how we can communicate better to both the church and the world around us. Over the years I have watched Mark do this brilliantly with the minimum of fuss and the maximum of grace.' * Mike Pilavachi, Soul Survivor *I have been waiting for this book all my ministry. Every church pastor and leadership team should read this. Mark Crosby is a remarkable man and here his gifts are given away. This is a must for every leader. I have known Mark for a number of years and he is the best Communications Director I have ever met who also loves Jesus, the Church and is passionate to see the Kingdom grow. This is not a book on church media it is a manual for church mission. * Simon Ponsonby, St Aldate's Oxford *Mark Crosby is the real deal – a man with a passion for Jesus Christ and a gift for helping churches communicate it * Mark Elsdon-Dew, Director of Communications, HTB Church and Alpha International *As the Communications Director for Vineyard Churches (UK & Ireland), Mark has been hugely effective in shaping communication both within and beyond our movement across multiple platforms. His passion for Jesus and the Church, his strategic mind and his diligent study of current and emerging means of communication, combine to make what he has to say well worth listening to. In this book Mark demonstrates his ability to make the complex simple, providing practical tips which have the potential to transform the church’s ability to connect with those within and far beyond it. * John and Debby Wright, National Directors, Vineyard Churches UK & Ireland *Mark is one of those great disciples who quietly makes things happen and doesn't mind who gets the credit. He has been such an encouragement in helping his church and many others communicate to students and young adults and joins up conversations and people all the time. From my experience in working with churches looking to reach students, clear, relational communication and consistent, kind follow-up is mission critical. Mark does this in his own life and so I pray this book helps many others do the same in the hidden and public spaces of following Jesus and being his church. * Miriam Swaffield. Fusion *The work of community formation is progressed through reliable communication. My friend Mark Crosby excels in leading churches to communicate in healthy ways that help rewrite the story of their cities. So Everyone Can Hear will be an invaluable tool for every community seeking to grow in strength as they gather and scatter for the sake of their cities. * Alan Scott, Anaheim Vineyard *Church Communications is one of the vital ingredients that we need to learn how to master as church leaders. Mark is one of the leading thinkers and practitioners in church communications and having known him for a number of years it's a delight to now have his experience neatly packaged in a book. So Everyone Can Hear is a vital addition to the toolkit of every church leader. * Jay Pathak, Mile High Vineyard *A vital and practical resource for churches today. * John and Eleanor Mumford, Vineyard Churches Global *A clarion call for churches to leverage all the communication tools the 21st century has to offer in service of reaching the world with the gospel. Compellingly written, beautifully designed, and grounded in Mark Crosby’s extensive experience, ‘So Everyone Can Hear’ is a gift to all Christian communicators. * Jo Swinney, Director of Church Communications, CPO *Mark Crosby's well-researched and immensely helpful guide to modern church communications points the way forward for churches wanting to make a real impact in their local community. And it also echoes advice and warnings given five decades ago. * Christianity Today *

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Book SynopsisA team of leading public intellectuals addresses the questions of who Jesus was, how he changed the world, and what he stands for 20 centuries later.Trade Review‘Jesus, a small-town Jewish teacher executed by Roman officials as a troublemaker, continues after two thousand years to vex our consciences, inspire actions of grace and mercy, and elude our categories. The diverse essays in this volume grapple thoughtfully with the perennial questions of who he was, how he has reshaped history, and why we can’t seem to stop thinking about him. No serious reader will come away from this book without being challenged and stirred to fresh reflection.’ * Richard B. Hays, Professor Emeritus of New Testament, The Divinity School, Duke University *‘Revolutionary shows that traditional interpretations of Jesus' significance remain credible. But no particular view is forced upon us. Another merit of this stimulating collection is the wealth of perspectives - revisionist, Islamic, secular - on view for readers to assess in an open spirit. A rich and compelling kaleidoscope.’ * Rupert Shortt, Religion Editor of the Times Literary Supplement *‘Leading intellectuals comment on Jesus Christ as the single most important figure in Western history. . . I highly recommend it.’ * Elisabeth Schussler Fiorenza, Professor of Divinity, Harvard Divinity School *

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Book SynopsisWritten by an authority on Martin Luther, this is the definitive biography of the central figure of the Protestant Reformation.Trade Review"This remarkable study, combining learning, realism, and literary adroitness, brings us close to Luther. Above all, it conveys Luther's power: the intensity of his faith, the coherence of his thought, the force of his personality."—New Yorker"This magnificent biography . . . is teeming with ideas and is altogether worthy of its great, gutsy subject."—Harry Reid, Glasgow Herald"If the world is to gain from Luther it must turn to the real Luther—furious, violent, foul-mouthed, passionately concerned. Him it will find in Oberman’s book, a labour of love."—G. R. Elton, Journal of Ecclesiastical History"Oberman rivets attention on Luther as he was. He prods the reader to set aside views mediated by tradition and prejudice. Yet, paradoxically, by locking Luther in the past and showing us our distance from him, he unlocks a truer Luther for the present; passionate commitment and dynamism are freshly provocative. Oberman's hallmark is to combine rigorous historical scholarship with theological sensitivity. The book is a milestone in Reformation studies."—Susan Moor, Scotsman"Oberman makes such good sense of the man that all other attempts to explain him, as a maniac, or a martyr to constipation, or as a saint, seem trivial by comparison."—Eric Christiansen, Spectator"The late Heiko Oberman was a formidable Reformation scholar and Luther’s biography, originally published 24 years ago, makes a welcome re-appearance in paperback. . . . This is a better account of the 16th-century Luther than of his legacy. The author presents us with a man who saw this world as a battlefield over which God and the devil fought. That is the arena we must enter if we want to understand the man who helped shape our modern world."—Derek Wilson, BBC History Magazine"When Martin Luther challenged the ruling powers of his time, the movement he initiated changed the social, political, intellectual and religious structures of western history. But what did Luther intend, and what did he actually accomplish? Heiko Oberman, internationally recognized as one of the most distinguished historians of the Reformation, addresses these questions in this readable book. Presenting a vivid portrait of a man too often portrayed as a saint or a devil, Oberman shows how Luther—passionate, courageous and stubborn—simultaneously aroused fierce loyalty in his admirers and violent antagonism among his enemies."—Elaine Pagels"This is the biography of Luther for our time by the world’s foremost authority."—Steven Ozment, Harvard University

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Book SynopsisA companion to the acclaimed Word Biblical Commentary, the Word Biblical Themes series helps readers discover the most important themes of a book of the Bible. This series distills the theological essence of a given book of Scripture and serves it up in ways that enrich the preaching, teaching, worship, and discipleship of God’s people.

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Book SynopsisIn this six-session video study, author Morgan Snyder draws on the example of Jesus to show men how to use the power the Lord has entrusted to them to care for others and build up God's kingdom.

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Book SynopsisA History of the Quests for the Historical Jesus, Volume 1 is an extensive survey and analysis of historical Jesus debates, assessing not only the quests' historical, exegetical, critical details but also their philosophical and theological underpinnings.Trade Review'. . . A fresh, lucid, and insightful history of life of Jesus research that will be a vital addition to any library where the subject is taught. Moving away from standard models, Brown creates a nuanced schematic history and also points to a new path ahead. Important too are his own erudite contributions to key topics.' * JOAN E. TAYLOR, professor of Christian origins and Second Temple Judaism, King’s College London *'[A] remarkable achievement that makes for a significant contribution to the field of historical Jesus research. Colin Brown provides an in-depth, detailed, and learned analysis of the study of the historical Jesus, taking the changing cultural context into regard as he skillfully guides the readers through the centuries. This is an important book that fills a definite gap in scholarship.' * CECILIA WASSÉN, Uppsala University *'A fascinating tour of our field's past and present. Given the scope of Brown's research, even long-time adepts will learn much.' * DALE C. ALLISON JR., Richard J. Dearborn Professor of New Testament, Princeton Theological Seminary *'Brown (with Craig A. Evans) offers a comprehensive, reliable, and insightful guide to the variety of original quests (beginning with the New Testament), the New Quest, the Third Quest, the Jewish Jesus, and ongoing phases of the movement, highlighting how the social circumstances of the individual participants influenced the discussion.' * CLARE K. ROTHSCHILD, professor of Scripture studies at Lewis University, professor extraordinary in the Department of Ancient Studies at Stellenbosch University *'Brown and Evans break the boundaries of the 'three-quest scenario' to move in multiple fresh directions. The result is a one-stop resource for historical Jesus research that uncovers historical, exegetical, and theological treasures.' * ELIZABETH E. SHIVELY, senior lecturer in New Testament, St. Mary’s College, University of St. Andrews, Scotland *'Brown here reconstitutes his topic away from the classic and still-dominant scholarly template for these quests, both by stressing the importance of Jesus research well before Schweitzer and by extending his purview to chronicle the exciting and far-reaching debates of the later twentieth century.' * MARKUS BOCKMUEHL, Dean Ireland’s Professor of the Exegesis of Holy Scripture, University of Oxford *'In this comprehensive two-volume study, the late Colin Brown brings together the rich fruits of his lifelong studies on Jesus in Christian theology. . . . A broad framework for the study of Jesus in Christian theology. For future Jesus research, this thorough study is an indispensable tool.' * JENS SCHRÖTER, Humboldt University *'Not since the grand survey of Albert Schweitzer at the beginning of the twentieth century have we seen--especially in English--such a vast review of academic (and at times popular) literature on the historical Jesus.' * JOHN P. MEIER, University of Notre Dame *'With characteristic lucidity, learning, and touches of humor, Colin Brown here examines what it means to think critically about Jesus. . . . Brown is a master at putting differing views into conversation with one another, sometimes across time, in his sweeping, socially sensitive account of what investigators have proposed and how scholarship might tool up to face present and future challenges. Evangelical theology in particular is the richer for this precise, creative, well-written account.' * BRUCE CHILTON, Bard College *

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Book SynopsisA History of the Quests for the Historical Jesus, Volume 2 is an extensive survey and analysis of historical Jesus debates, assessing not only the quests' historical, exegetical, critical details but also their philosophical and theological underpinnings.Trade Review'. . .A fresh, lucid, and insightful history of life of Jesus research that will be a vital addition to any library where the subject is taught. Moving away from standard models, Brown creates a nuanced schematic history and also points to a new path ahead. Important too are his own erudite contributions to key topics.' * JOAN E. TAYLOR, professor of Christian origins and Second Temple Judaism, King’s College London *'[A] remarkable achievement that makes for a significant contribution to the field of historical Jesus research. Colin Brown provides an in-depth, detailed, and learned analysis of the study of the historical Jesus, taking the changing cultural context into regard as he skillfully guides the readers through the centuries. This is an important book that fills a definite gap in scholarship.' * CECILIA WASSÉN, Uppsala University *'A fascinating tour of our field's past and present. Given the scope of Brown's research, even long-time adepts will learn much.' * DALE C. ALLISON JR., Richard J. Dearborn Professor of New Testament, Princeton Theological Seminary *'Brown (with Craig A. Evans) offers a comprehensive, reliable, and insightful guide to the variety of original quests (beginning with the New Testament), the New Quest, the Third Quest, the Jewish Jesus, and ongoing phases of the movement, highlighting how the social circumstances of the individual participants influenced the discussion.' * CLARE K. ROTHSCHILD, professor of Scripture studies at Lewis University, professor extraordinary in the Department of Ancient Studies at Stellenbosch University *'Brown and Evans break the boundaries of the 'three-quest scenario' to move in multiple fresh directions. The result is a one-stop resource for historical Jesus research that uncovers historical, exegetical, and theological treasures.' * ELIZABETH E. SHIVELY, senior lecturer in New Testament, St. Mary’s College, University of St. Andrews, Scotland *'Brown here reconstitutes his topic away from the classic and still-dominant scholarly template for these quests, both by stressing the importance of Jesus research well before Schweitzer and by extending his purview to chronicle the exciting and far-reaching debates of the later twentieth century.' * MARKUS BOCKMUEHL, Dean Ireland’s Professor of the Exegesis of Holy Scripture, University of Oxford *'In this comprehensive two-volume study, the late Colin Brown brings together the rich fruits of his lifelong studies on Jesus in Christian theology. . . . A broad framework for the study of Jesus in Christian theology. For future Jesus research, this thorough study is an indispensable tool.' * JENS SCHRÖTER, Humboldt University *'Not since the grand survey of Albert Schweitzer at the beginning of the twentieth century have we seen--especially in English--such a vast review of academic (and at times popular) literature on the historical Jesus.' * JOHN P. MEIER, University of Notre Dame *'With characteristic lucidity, learning, and touches of humor, Colin Brown here examines what it means to think critically about Jesus. . . . Brown is a master at putting differing views into conversation with one another, sometimes across time, in his sweeping, socially sensitive account of what investigators have proposed and how scholarship might tool up to face present and future challenges. Evangelical theology in particular is the richer for this precise, creative, well-written account.' * BRUCE CHILTON, Bard College *

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Book SynopsisIn this five-session video Bible study, Max Lucado explores the grace that God showed to Jacob in the Bible, revealing how the Lord sticks with the unworthy and the underachievers until they are safely home.

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Book SynopsisOur world is marked by unprecedented degrees of multiculturalism, ethnic diversity, social shifts, international collaboration, and technology-driven changes. The changes are profound, especially when you consider the unchecked decline in the influence, size, and social standing of the church. There is an undercurrent of anxiety in the evangelical world, and a hunger for something new. And we're sensing the urgency of it.We need fresh, creative counterintuitive ways of doing ministry and church and leading it in the 21st century. We need to adapt. Fast. Both in our practices and our thinking. The aim of this book is simple: When we understand the powerful forces at work in the world today, we'll learn how something called The Third Culture can yield perhaps the most critical missing ingredient in the church todayadaptabilityand help the church remain on the best side of history. A Third Culture Church and a Third Culture Leader looks at our new global village and the church's role in t

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Book SynopsisA new commentary for today's world, The Story of God Bible Commentary explains and illuminates each passage of Scripture in light of the Bible’s grand story. SGBC offers a clear and compelling exposition of biblical texts, guiding everyday readers in how to creatively and faithfully live out the Bible in their own contexts.Trade Review''I'm a storyteller. Through writing and speaking I talk and teach about understanding the Story of God throughout Scripture and about letting God reveal more of His story as I live it out. Thus I am thrilled to have a commentary series based on the Story of God--a commentary that helps me to Listen to the Story, that Explains the Story, and then encourages me to probe how to Live the Story. A perfect tool for helping every follower of Jesus to walk in the story that God is writing for them.' * Judy Douglass Director of Women’s Resources, Cru *'An extremely valuable and long overdue series that includes comment on the cultural context of the text, careful exegesis, and guidance on reading the whole Bible as a unity that testifies to Christ as our Savior and Lord.' * Graeme Goldsworthy author of According to Plan *'Getting a story is about more than merely enjoying it. It means hearing it, understanding it, and above all, being impacted by it. This commentary series hopes that its readers not only hear and understand the story, but are impacted by it to live in as Christian a way as possible. The editors and contributors set that table very well and open up the biblical story in ways that move us to act with sensitivity and understanding. That makes hearing the story as these authors tell it well worth the time. Well done.' * Darrell L. Bock Dallas Theological Seminary *'I love The Story of God Bible Commentary series. It makes the text sing, and helps us hear the story afresh.' * John Ortberg Senior Pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church *'In this promising new series of commentaries, believing biblical scholars bring not only their expertise but their own commitment to Jesus and insights into today's culture to the Scriptures. The result is a commentary series that is anchored in the text but lives and breathes in the world of today's church with its variegated pattern of socioeconomic, ethnic, and national diversity. Pastors, Bible study leaders, and Christians of all types who are looking for a substantive and practical guide through the Scriptures will find these volumes helpful.' * Frank Thielman Beeson Divinity School *'Pastors and lay people will welcome this new series, which seeks to make the message of the Scriptures clear and to guide readers in appropriating biblical texts for life today.' * Daniel I. Block Wheaton College and Graduate School *'The Bible is the story of God and his dealings with humanity from creation to new creation. The Bible is made up more of stories than of any other literary genre. Even the psalms, proverbs, prophecies, letters, and the Apocalypse make complete sense only when set in the context of the grand narrative of the entire Bible. This commentary series breaks new ground by taking all these observations seriously. It asks commentators to listen to the text, to explain the text, and to live the text. Some of the material in these sections overlaps with introduction, detailed textual analysis and application, respectively, but only some. The most riveting and valuable part of the commentaries are the stories that can appear in any of these sections, from any part of the globe and any part of church history, illustrating the text in any of these areas. Ideal for preaching and teaching.' * Craig L. Blomberg Denver Seminary *'The Story of God Bible Commentary series invites readers to probe how the message of the text relates to our situations today. Engagingly readable, it not only explores the biblical text but offers a range of applications and interesting illustrations.' * Craig S. Keener Asbury Theological Seminary *'The Story of God Bible Commentary series is unique in its approach to exploring the Bible. Its easy-to-use format and practical guidance brings God's grand story to modern-day life so anyone can understand how it applies today.' * Andy Stanley North Point Ministries *

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Book SynopsisMany ministry leaders serving in churches find themselves overwhelmed, disillusioned, and depressed by the enormous and challenging task of leading and serving others. When leaders aren’t healthy, the result is often an unhealthy church. Leaders need someone to shepherd their soul so that they can then lead others to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Every church leader—from fulltime ministers to volunteer leaders—needs a Gospel Coach who will come alongside them with words drawn from Scripture and godly wisdom, grounded in the gracious saving work of Jesus Christ, and presented in the context of a trusting relationship. Gospel coaching is an intentional relationship of skillful caring for others based on four ancient shepherding principles: 1) Know the sheep 2) Feed the sheep 3) Lead the sheep 4) Protect the sheep Gospel coaches inquire about the personal, spiritual, and missional aspects of a leader’s life in a loving yet focused manner, probing the heart f

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Book SynopsisTaking a stand over the gender-issue divide Author and New Testament scholar Michael Bird was formerly in favor of distinct gender roles in ministry, a viewpoint commonly called complementarianism. But inconsistencies in practice and careful biblical study convinced him to rethink his position.Originally published as a short ebook, Bourgeois Babes, Bossy Wives, and Bobby Haircuts offers an engaging, incisive perspective on biblical gender equality and the egalitarian viewa preference for allowing women to hold teaching and leadership positions in ministry.While Bird is now egalitarian, he nevertheless strikes a respectful tone toward those in his previous camp, seeking to craft a perspective that both values women and upholds biblical differences between the sexes. Humorous and hard-hitting, Bird will challenge readers on both sides of the gender-issue divide.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Fretting over Phoebe 2. Who is Who in the Zoo? 3. Women in Pauline Churches Conclusion Epilogue: Who the Heck Was Ilse Fredrichsdorff?

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Book SynopsisA fresh approach to the hot-button topic of women in ministryBased on his study of a key word for teaching in the New Testamentan activity often thought to be prohibited to womenand on various other kinds of public speaking in which women in Scripture clearly participated, scholar John Dickson builds a case for women preachers.This expanded edition of Hearing Her Voice, published originally as a short ebook, presents an entirely new and convincing biblical argument. Focused and purposefully limited in its conclusions, Dickson's case has the potential to change minds and merits careful consideration by complementarians and egalitarians alike.This book will be useful for pastors, Bible teachers, college and seminary students, professors, and lay leaders who wrestle with the topic of women's roles in ministry, and it will appeal to many with its fresh approach to this hot-button topic.

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Book SynopsisChristology in Mark's Gospel: Four Views brings together some of today’s best scholars to address the topic of Mark's Christology, its presentation of Jesus ranging from “perfectly human” to “uniquely divine.” Contributors include: Sandra Huebenthal, Larry W. Hurtado (with Chris Keith), J. R. Daniel Kirk, and Adam Winn.

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Book SynopsisGiven the significance of spiritual direction in modern Christianity, surprisingly little attention has been given to the tradition upon which today s spiritual direction is built.Trade Review'A Woman's Way promises to make a valuable contribution to these continuing debates, contesting accepted understandings of gender hierarchies in the past and providing detailed evidence of the contribution women have made to the universal search for meaning.' - Shurlee Swain, Journal of Religious HistoryTable of ContentsDirection in the Desert Direction Comes West The Age of Spiritual Advice The Visionary and the Confessor-Interrogator The Dawn of the Golden Age The Golden Age Continued Direction and Revolution Contemporary Spiritual Direction

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Book SynopsisA companion volume to The Mind of Jesus and Crucified and Crowned. Jesus as They Saw Him has been Unavailable for a number of years, and now makes a welcome reappearance.

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Book SynopsisA stimulating look at the rise of the cult of the saints, weaving it within its social and cultural context. A beautifully written book' (Catholic Herald).

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Book SynopsisThese studies develop further the investigation carried out in Dr Vermes' books Jesus the Jew and The Dead Sea Scrolls and shed light on many important and controversial issues from that period.

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Book SynopsisIn his Preface, Professor Maurice Wiles writes: 'Augustine has been well served by his recent commentators... But Origen has remained a much more shadowy figure, largely unknown except to the specialist scholar. Joseph Trigg's book should go a long way to remedy that state of affairs.

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Book SynopsisFreed from the weight and onus of Christian doctrine or Jewish animus, Jesus here appears as a vividly human, yet profoundly misunderstood, figure, thoroughly grounded and contextualized within the intellectual and cultural cross-currents of his day.

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Book SynopsisA much-needed mentoring guide for women in leadership, from popular speaker and author Jo Saxton.Trade ReviewJust like its author, INFLUENTIAL is very human, very biblical, very passionate and very practical... If you want to be a person of influence, this is the book to help you on your journey. * Mike Pilavachi *This book is stunning. Jo gives fresh insights on biblical characters and situations, which she then powerfully applies to the reader's everyday life. It is full of practical application, with brilliantly insightful questions to help unpack and digest all the amazing truth contained in this book. INFLUENTIAL is a must-read for any woman who wants to reach her full potential and play her part in God's kingdom. I loved it and can't recommend it highly enough. * Ali Martin *

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Book SynopsisFor untold centuries, the shaman was the tribe's most revered and respected member, possessing the unique ability to tap into the universal source of wisdom by journeying deep within the self -- seeking, and finding, answers to pressing questions, achieving profound understanding by avoiding the stumbling blocks of the outer material world. Developing techniques for communicating with the innermost world of the spirit can be a valuable boon in these modern times with their contemporary problems and concerns. Through a series of easy-to-follow exercises, lessons, and rituals, psychologist Jose Stevens and wife, Lena, can show you how to identify your inner spiritual guides -- and how, through a unique and powerful communication with them, you can achieve undreamed-of professional success, psychological enlightenment, and personal fulfillment ... and completely change the way you live your life

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Book SynopsisA design-thinking book for planting or redesigning churches and incubating a new generation of leaders. Written by Linda Bergquist and Allan Karr, two experienced church planters and mentors, the book is full of wisdom, practical advice, and creative counsel. Instead of a business-model-as-usual approach, the authors challenge readers to begin with the raw materials of beliefs, values, individuals, teams, and culture, and to then move outwards to draw from a rich palette of real and potential church paradigms. This book is meant to provoke church leaders to think outside of the box and to imagine how their churches might better reflect the image and the mission of God in the world. Contains a wealth of illustrative examples, charts, and other visual aides Offers a creative practical perspective and a multi-disciplinary approach to establishing a new church or leading an existing one Shows how to honor a church''s purpose while embracing its uniqTable of ContentsFigures and Tables ix About Leadership Network xi Foreword by Alan Hirsch xiii Preface xvii 1 The Once and Future Church 1 2 Acknowledging Self 17 3 Cultivating Community 33 4 Patterns That Honor God 51 5 Designing Around Beliefs 67 6 Releasing Communitas 79 7 Designing in Culture 95 8 Embracing Culture 113 9 A Palette of Models 125 10 Discovering Congruency 145 11 Organizing by Design 159 12 A New Way of Organizing 177 Notes 191 Acknowledgments 201 About the Authors 205 Index 207

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Book SynopsisAn insightful and practical guide for developing relational leadership skills and engaging new paradigms of influence Relational Intelligence reveals how leaders can become smarter in the way they conduct their relationships, and as a result, catalyze their impact.Table of ContentsAbout Leadership Network ix Foreword by Erwin Raphael McManus xi Heroes to Acknowledge xv Part One The Origins of Relational Intelligence 1. The Human Economy 7 2. The Michael Scott Syndrome 25 Part Two The Hidden Power of a Relational Genius 3. The Story Collector 55 4. The Energy Carrier 79 5. The Compelling Relator 103 6. The Conversational Futurist 127 7. The Likeable Hero 149 8. The Disproportionate Investor 169 9. The Last Word 187 Notes 189 Bibliography 191 The Author 195 Index 197

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Book SynopsisA practical approach for leaders to guide their congregations tobecome more externally focused The Externally Focused Quest: Becoming the Best Church forthe Community is designed for church leaders who want totransform their churches to become less internally focused and moreoriented to the world around them.Table of ContentsAbout Leadership Network. Acknowledgments Foreword (Alan Hirsch). Introduction. Chapter 1: What Kind of Day Is Today? Chapter 2: Focus: They Choose the Window Seat, Not the Aisle Seat. Chapter 3: Purpose: They Practice Weight Training, Not Bodybuilding. Chapter 4: Story: They Live in the Kingdom Story, Not a Church Story. Chapter 5: Missions: The Few Send the Many, Not the Many Send the Few. Chapter 6: Partnering: They Build Wells, Not Walls. Chapter 7: Systems: They Create Paradigms, Not Programs. Chapter 8: Evangelism: They Deploy Kingdom Laborers, Not Social Workers. Chapter 9: Creativity: They Innovate, Not Replicate. Chapter 10: Outcomes: It's About the Game, Not the Pregame Talk. Notes. The Authors.

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Book SynopsisAn expert practitioner answers to questions about the burgeoning organic church movement Neil Cole's best-selling book Organic Church described the fastest growing segment of contemporary Christianity-the so-called organic church.Table of ContentsAbout Leadership Network ix Foreword xi Preface xiii Acknowledgments xvii Introduction What About This Book? Shifting from Church 2.0 to 3.0 1 Part One Global Changes Demand a Better Church 13 1 What About the World We Live In? From a Village Church to a Global Village 15 2 What About Our Changing Culture? From Ministry in a Modern World to Postmodern 23 Part Two Structural Issues 43 3 What About the Church's Mission? From Coming to Going 45 4 What About Church Growth? From Incremental to Exponential 66 5 What About Church Models? Part One: From Congregations to Networks 92 6 What About Church Models? Part Two: From Centralized to Decentralized 116 7 What About Larger Gatherings? From One-Size-Fits-All to Tailored Groups for Effective Function 137 Part Three Pragmatic Concerns 163 8 What About Evangelism? From Drawing Converts to Catalyzing Movements 165 9 What About Baptism and Communion? From Sacerdotal Rituals to Apostolic Genius 189 10 What About Kids? From a Scholastic Model to a Spiritual Family 209 11 What About Heresy? From Better-Trained Pastors to Better-Trained People 222 12 What About Finances? From Ten Percent to the Whole Enchilada 241 Conclusion What About My Church? From Being Educated to Being Empowered 253 Notes 257 The Author 265 Index 267

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Book SynopsisA groundbreaking guide for multiplying the impact of church plants Based on a study that was commissioned by the Leadership Network, this book reveals the best practices in church planting and uncovers the common threads among them. A much-needed resource, this book will inform, guide, and even catalyze today''s many church planting leaders. The authors clearly show leaders how to plant churches that create a multiplication movement and offer inspiration for them to do so. The book addresses their questions about what to do next in their church planting strategies, in light of research on what''s actually working best. Author Ed Stetzer heads up LifeWay Research Provides reliable, credible information about what church planting strategies work best A volume in the Leadership Network Series Offers a definitive guide for church planting and the burgeoning movement it is part of.Table of ContentsAbout Leadership Network ix Foreword xiRick Warren 1 Introduction 1 2 Church Planting: The New Evangelism 11 3 Growth by Multiplication: Big Contrast to Addition 31 4 New Players: Aggressive Local Churches and Church Planting Networks 49 5 Kingdom Cooperation: Church Planters Learning Together 67 6 Predictors of Success: Recruitment, Assessment, and Deployment 83 7 Thriving: New Church Survival Rates 101 8 House Churches: Separating Reality from Fiction 115 9 Multisite Strategy: A Fast-Growing Trend That Affects Planting 129 10 Rapid Growth: Still Not Reproduction 139 11 Funding: Partnerships Matter 149 12 The New Scorecard: Measuring a Church Multiplication Movement 161 13 Obstacles to Missional Replication: What Holds Us Back 185 14 Conclusion: Solving the Toughest Challenges 195 Acknowledgments 209 Appendix: List of Churches and Networks Cited 211 Notes 215 Annotated Bibliography for Church Multiplication 225 The Authors 233 Index 237 Scripture Index 244

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Book SynopsisA gentle new way for church leader's to survive stress and burnout Bruce Miller debunks the idea of balancebasically trying to have it all, all the time. Most churches and their pastors try to do everything at once and feel guilty if any one aspect (worship, ministries, outreach, etc.) is neglected. He replaces the exhausting concept of balance with the idea of rhythm: churches, like people, need to give attention to different programs and ministries at different times, basically by attending to their seasons and cycles. Offers an innovative new model for church leaders Miller has been influential in the formation and promotion of Church-Based Training as in international movement Offers a proven method for avoiding burnout for church leaders and members by doing the right things at the right time The author offers much-need help to overwhelmed leaders and shows them how to apply Miller's seasonal/cyclical approach to church life.Table of ContentsAbout the Jossey-Bass Leadership Network Series ix Foreword by Will Mancini xi Preface xiii Acknowledgments xv Introduction Time: The Forgotten Dimension xvii Part One Identifying What Time It Is in Your Church 1 1 Why Do Church in Rhythm? 3 2 Kairos and Chronos Rhythms 17 3 Discerning Your Organizational Stage 27 4 Recognizing Your Ministry Seasons 45 Part Two Kairos Rhythm Strategies 57 5 Release Expectations 59 6 Seize Opportunities 73 7 Anticipate What’s Next 91 Part Three Chronos Rhythm Strategies 107 8 Pace Your Church 109 9 Build Mission-Enhancing Rituals 123 10 Oscillate Intensity and Renewal 139 Conclusion Rhythm Solution Process for Your Church 155 Discussion Questions 165 Rhythm Overview 169 Notes 171 References 177 The Author 181

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Book SynopsisA guide for applying the best of business insight for church leadership In Pursuit of Great AND Godly Leadership explores the issues involved in bringing secular leadership knowledge into the world of church leadership.Table of ContentsAbout the Jossey-Bass Leadership Network Series ix Preface xi 1 Is Great the Enemy of Godly? 1 2 Where Should You Begin? 20 Part One: Tools for Great and Godly Leadership 33 3 Is God in Your Plans? 37 4 Are Your Plans Fruitful? 59 5 Who Is on the Bus? 74 6 Do You Measure What Matters? 97 7 How Will You Finance the Dream? 117 8 Are “All Systems Go”? 135 Part Two: Beyond the Tools 147 9 Is Everyone on the Same Page? 149 10 Why Is Culture Important? 168 11 Are You Prepared to Change? 184 12 Are You Guarding Your Heart? 205 Appendix A: The People Behind the Stories 221 Appendix B: Practical Tips for Managing People 231 Appendix C: Practical Ideas for Measurement 235 Notes 241 Annotated Bibliography 249 Acknowledgments 253 The Author 257 Index 259

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisThis 2002 book describes power and politics in Rome and the role of the papacy in early modern European politics. It attempts to overcome the traditional historiographical approach to the papacy during this period by focusing on the actual mechanisms of power in the papal court - political, personal, spiritual and ceremonial.Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: ' … this [is an] important collection of articles … together they present a new and intriguing view of the early modern state apparatus.' The Historical JournalTable of ContentsIntroduction Gianvittorio Signorotto and Maria Antonietta Visceglia; 1. A turning-point in the history of the factional system in the Sacred College: the power of the pope and cardinals in the age of Alexander VI Marco Pellegrini; 2. The court and the city in the ceremony of the possesso in the sixteenth century Irene Fosi; 3. 'Rome, workshop of all the practice of the world': from the letters of cardinal Ferdinando de' Medici to Cosimo I and Francesco I Elena Fasano Guarini; 4. The 'world's theatre': the court of Rome and politics in the first half of the seventeenth century Mario Rosa; 5. Factions in the Sacred College in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries Maria Antonietta Visceglia; 6. The Secretariat of State as the pope's special ministry Antonio Menniti Ippolito; 7. The cardinal protectors of the crowns in the Roman curia during the first half of the seventeenth century: the case of France Olivier Poncet; 8. The squadrone volante: 'independent' cardinals and European politics in the second half of the seventeenth century Gianvittorio Signorotto; 9. Roman avvisi: information and politics in the seventeenth century Mario Infelise; 10. Hegemony of the social scene and zealous popes, 1676–1700 Renata Ago.

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Book SynopsisJohn Man is a historian and travel writer with a special interest in Mongolia. After reading German and French at Oxford he did two postgraduate courses, one in the history of science at Oxford, the other in Mongolian at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London.John has written acclaimed and highly successful biographies of Genghis Khan, Attila the Hun and Kublai Khan as well as Alpha Beta, on the history of the alphabet, and The Gutenberg Revolution, on the invention of printing.Trade ReviewFast-paced ... thrilling. -- Ben Wilson * The Times *One could not wish for a better storyteller or analyst than John Man. * Simon Sebag Montefiore *His ability to put us in the picture, to feel, smell and almost touch the surroundings he describes, is matched by his ability to tell a good story. * Michael Palin *

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Book SynopsisIan Wilson is a prolific, internationally published author specialising in historical and religious mysteries. Born in south London, he graduated from Magdalen College, Oxford University, in 1963 with honours in Modern History. The TV documentary that he co-scripted to accompany his 1978 Shroud book won a BAFTA award, and his later book Jesus: The Evidence was a best-seller on both sides of the Atlantic. Accompanied by his wife Judith, Wilson emigrated from England to Queensland, Australia, in 1995, where he enthusiastically continues wide-ranging research projects both at home and around the world.Trade ReviewThe godfather of the bestselling genre of historical quests that seek for the 'truth' behind ancient myths and faiths. * The Independent *Really a completely new book, which I had not quite anticipated. The updated content [and] the enhanced pictorial program (including the many colour plates) ... greatly add to its impact. * Professor John Beldon Scott *In 1978 Ian Wilson first put forward the idea that the Shroud was the same as the Mandylion of Edessa...The [latest] evidence presented...is such that the burden of proof is now on those who think that the two relics are not related... This would take the Shroud back to the seventh century at least... -- John Ray * TLS *

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