Religious ministry and clergy Books

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 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 SynopsisProvides an overview of pastoral and practical theology in the form of articles and extracts with commentary. * Presents pastoral and practical theology within a theoretical framework* Contains classic readings together with newly commissioned articles* Engages with practical theologies from both sides of the Atlantic.Trade Review"This is a textbook to be recommended. The whole spectrum of practical theology, including the feminist perspective, is covered." Norbert Mette, International Journal of Practical Theology "An invaluable book for teachers and students of pastoral theology, this is a 'must' for any serious student of pastoral theology” Journal of Beliefs and Value “As a resource for students and teaches in the field, this is a Reader that is practically de rigueur for a theological library or personal bookshelf…The editors and Blackwell publishers should be congratulated on this very fine contribution to theological enquiry and practice.” Australasian Catholic RecordTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction: How to Use This Book. 1. An Introduction to Pastoral and Practical Theology: Stephen Pattison (Cardiff University) and James Woodward (Foundation of Lady Katherine Leveson). Part I: Modern Pastoral and Practical Theology in Historical Perspective:. Introduction to Part I. 2. The Meaning and Importance of Pastoral Theology: Seward Hiltner (Formerly Yale University). 3. Introduction to Pastoral Theology in the United States: John Patton (Columbia Theological Seminary). 4. The Emergence of Pastoral and Practical Theology in Britain: Paul Ballard (Cardiff University). Part II: Approaches and Methods in Pastoral and Practical Theology: . Introduction to Part II. 5. The Nature of Practical Theology: Alastair Campbell (University of Bristol). 6. Pastoral Theology in a Pluralistic Age: Don Browning (University of Chicago). 7. Practical Theology as Transforming Practice: Elaine Graham (University of Manchester). 8. Interpreting Situations: An Enquiry into the Nature of Practical Theology: Edward Farley (Vanderbilt University). 9. Practical Theology as a Theological Form: Emmanuel Lartey (University of Birmingham). 10. A Basic Introduction to Theological Reflection: Stephen Pattison (Cardiff University). Part III: Relating Theory and Practice to Perspectives and Issues in Pastoral and Practical Theology:. Introduction to Part III. 11. Pastoral Theology and Sociology: Michael Northcott (Edinburgh University). 12. Liberation Theology and Political Theory: Peter Sedgwick (Church of England's Board of Social Responsibility). 13. Ecclesiology and Pastoral Theology: Nicholas Bradbury (Diocese of Bristol). 14. Christian Morality and Pastoral Theology: Nicholas Peter Harvey. 15. Spirituality in a Post-modern Era: Marie McCarthy (Centre for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago). 16. Sketching the Contours of a Pastoral Theological Perspective: Suffering, Healing and Reconstructing Experiencing: Chris Schlauch (Boston University). 17. The Relationship between Pastoral Counselling and Pastoral Theology: Gordon Lynch. 18. How Sexuality and Relationships have Revolutionised Pastoral Theology: Bonnie J. Miller-McLemore (Vanderbilt Divinity School). 19. Culture Religious Faiths and Race: Martin Forward (Wesley House). 20. What is the Relevance of Congregational Studies for Pastoral Theology? Brynoff Lyon. 21. Towards Dialogue: An Exploration of the Relations between Psychiatry and Religion in Contemporary Mental Health: Mark Sutherland (Maudsley Hospital). 22. Management and Pastoral Theology: Stephen Pattison (Cardiff University). Part IV: Evaluating Pastoral and Practical Theology: . Introduction to Part IV. 23. An Introduction to an Evaluation in Pastoral Theology and Pastoral Care: Stephen Pattison (Cardiff University) and James Woodward (Foundation of Lady Katherine Leveson). 24. A Pastoral Carer's Performance: David Lyall. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisMany powerful voices are influencing our grandchildren, from those at home and in their schools to those in the world of entertainment and media. What can you as a grandparent do to speak wisdom and godliness into their lives?Biblical Grandparenting is a full-length leadership book that places grandparenting ministry on a firm scriptural foundation. It is ideal for pastors and church leaders as well as for use in the classroom at seminaries.

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Book SynopsisMany powerful voices are influencing our grandchildren, from those at home and in their schools to those in the world of entertainment and media. What can you as a grandparent do to speak wisdom and godliness into their lives? Equipping Grandparents is a brief book to teach pastors how to begin a grandparenting ministry in their church.

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Book SynopsisKennon Callahan shares a new understanding of leadership, and helps missionary pastors grow their leadership by cultivating new understandings and practices in seven key areas. Callahan guides pastors and key leaders in building on their creativity and imagination in order to revitalize their local churches and advance their missions.Table of ContentsTHE DAY OF MISSION. The Missionary Pastor. The Mission Field. The Mission Outpost. THE NATURE OF LEADERSHIP. Life and Leadership. Life Is a Search. Leadership, Discovery, Fulfillment. FOUNDATIONAL SEARCHES, EMERGING TRENDS, AND CONSEQUENCES. The Search for Individuality. The Search for Community. The Search for Meaning. The Search for Hope. THE HEART OF THE MATTER. Leadership Values. The Leadership Environment. A Constructive Perspective. The Evaluation Process. Leadership Structures. Missional Structures. Church Development. CONCLUSION. The Way Forward.

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Book SynopsisA practical guide to the crucial role of visiting in the life of a church----a role that has grown even more important in an age when so many do not regularly attAnd church services. Presented here are 14 different forms of visiting, to reach both within the church congregation and in the community at large.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements ix Introduction xi Step One: The Persons 1 A Joyful Invitation 3 2 Choosing Whom to Visit 9 3 An Amazing Mission 15 Step Two: Ways of Visiting 4 Visiting Possibilities 25 5 Personal Visiting 31 6 Visiting in Gatherings 42 7 Special Ways of Visiting 47 Step Three: The Best Timing 8 A Simple Approach 59 9 Life Stages and Celebrative Events 68 Step Four: Your Gifts for Visiting 10 Gifts and Graces 79 11 Training and Praying 86 12 Suggestions for Visiting 92 13 Excellent Sprinters, Solid Marathon Runners 102 Step Five: Building Your Mission 14 Your Visiting Outreach 109 15 The Congregation’s Witness 118 16 The Pastor Visits 128 17 Sacrament and Cloud 135

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Book SynopsisThis step--by--step guide to healthy habits of church finances will help church leaders focus their best creativity, leadership, and energy on advancing their mission. Written for committee members, key leaders, pastors, and staffs, this is a detailed account of budgeting and fund--raising, complete with charts and questionnaires. .Table of ContentsDEVELOPING YOUR BUDGET. A Mission Budget. Major Priorities. Building an Investment Budget. RAISING YOUR GIVING. Giving Campaigns. Campaign Strategy Objectives. Campaign Organizations. Selecting Fund-Raisers. SETTING GIVING GOALS. Giving Patterns Fluctuate. Your Congregation's Giving Pattern. Projecting Your Budget. New Developments. GROWING YOUR GIVING. Easier to Raise. The Gift of Encouragement. Practices of Giving. Enduring Gifts. Conclusion. Advancing Your Mission.

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Book SynopsisAn essential guide for church leaders to help them incorporatethe Twelve Keys As a companion to Twelve Keys to an Effective Church, theLeader''s Guide provides ideas and suggestions on how to lead usingthe Twelve Keys model, how to handle congregational dynamics, plusguidelines on leading a Twelve Keys Planning Retreat to prepare forthe future. * Shows how to use the Twelve Keys model within acongregation * Offers helpful resources and suggestions for encouragingaction, implementation, and momentum * Includes guidelines on leading a Twelve Keys Planning Retreatto prepare for the future * Written by Kennon L. Callahan, the pastor who developed theTwelve Keys method This book will help church leaders implement the Twelve Keysmodel and handle the many other factors that make a churcheffective and successful.Trade Review"The church has had to wait too long for this indispensablematerial. Dr. Callahan's careful attention to detail and practicalchurch programming is balanced by a depth of theologicalunderstanding and an earnest desire to help the church move frommaintenance to mission. This book will give direction to the churchfor many years to come." (George Morris, Institute for WorldEvangelism) "[An] excellent book for churches that are contemplatingrenewal.... [Callahan] understands the need for objective,measurable, and workable methods." (The Presbyterian Survey) "Callahan has produced a book which should, for many years, be aneffective guide for local congregations.... The book is realisticand does not place upon a congregation impossible demands, butholds to realistic hopes.... This book is useful for pastors andemployed staff. It can be used by the various organizations withinthe church. Each organization would do well to read [it]." (PerkinsJournal) "This very readable book offers a step-by-step, how-to approach toits subject.... Clear, concise,...[it] must certainly be judged avaluable contribution to the task of congregational long-rangeplanning." (The Christian Century)Table of ContentsIntroduction: Leaders and Long-range Planning. Part One: Resources for Long-range Planning. 1. The Four Stages and Six Sessions. 2. Timelines, Objectives, and Long-range Planning. 3. The Major Qualitative Resources for Long-range Planning. 4. The Four Invitational Questions. 5. What to Listen For and Look For. 6. Principles for Participation. Part Two: Resources for Action, Implementation, and Momentum. 7. An Effective Long-range Plan. 8. Leaders and Key Objectives. 9. Motivational Resources. 10. Leadership Development: Focusing on the Middle Third. 11. Excellent Mistakes and Objectives Worth Not Doing. 12. Prayer: Vision and Hope. Part Three: Four Dynamics to Consider. 13. Memory, Change, Conflict, and Hope.

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Book SynopsisThrough their admirable energy, dedication, and leadership, religious board members sustain our world''s most invaluable organizations. This in-depth handbook offers essential insights from respected veterans of religious and nonprofit work on governing an organization with a religious mission. Drawing on years of research, consulting, and hands-on religious nonprofit work, the authors show how board members can clearly define their roles and mission, transform hierarchical structures into models of collaborative leadership, and organize for greater impact. From congregations and seminaries to soup kitchens, hospital chains, and social service agencies, Building Effective Boards for Religious Organizations examines both the nature and nurture of religious boards. Interfaith in scope and brimming with real-life examples, it skillfully demonstrates how a religious board can escape common problems, and how understanding the full depth of the organization''s missTrade Review"This book is truly masterful. It matches our situation so well it is uncanny. The book will act as the sailor's basic navigation tools for nonprofit managers and trustees. It is very learning-community oriented and has high value for everyone." --William Andersen, executive director, The Episcopal Church Foundation "Should be on the desk in every religious organization. Holland and Hester guide the reader through governance basics, from purpose to planning, with faithful attention to the special role of shared leadership." --Pat Murrell, professor, University of Memphis "This book is an excellent resource for boards of religious organizations. Each essay contains at least one model on which to reflect or a tool with which to strengthen a board." --Margaret M. Healy, president, Rosemont College "If you want to improve the governance of religious organizations, read this book. The assembled experts provide a roadmap for how a board can add value to the organization it serves." --Eugene R. Smoley, Jr., senior fellow, The Cheswick Center "This ought to be required reading for any member of a religious board and those who serve with them." --John M. Mulder, president, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary "A rare opportunity to encounter the experience of the most respected leaders in the governance of theological education. Presidents should not miss it." --Ansley Coe Throckmorton, president, Bangor Theological SeminaryTable of ContentsPreface. PRACTICING FAITHFUL GOVERNANCE. Stewards of Hope: The Work of Trustees (M. Warford). The Duties and Responsibilities of Boards of Religious Organizations (T. Holland). The Religious Mission of the Board (W. Sachs). Practicing Governance in the Light of Faith (D. Hester). IMPROVING THE BOARD'S PERFORMANCE. Developing a More Effective Board (T. Holland). Beyond Hierarchies: Transforming Power and Leadership (T. Savage). Boundary Spanning: Building Bridges Between an Organization and Its Environment (C. Klein). The Merger Challenge: Building a Cohesive Culture (D. Nygren, et al.). The Board's Role in Shaping Strategy (R. Chait). Providing Meaningful Information for Governance (L. Butler). Conclusion: Turning Toward the Future. Index.

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Book SynopsisHere for the first time is a truly spiritual way of looking atfundraising as an opportunity to nurture current and prospectivedonors and facilitate their growth in faith. Growing Givers'' Heartsexplores how development staff, executives, and board members fromacross the theological spectrum can make faith-buildingopportunities for donors their first priority; act on theirconfidence in God''s abundance; draw from their theologicaltradition in their approach to fundraising; involve a vitalcross-section of staff in planning; and cultivate spirituallymature leadership. With this innovative approach, Growing Givers'' Hearts empowersreaders to work in spiritually grounded, deeply creative, andprofessionally satisfying ways. Fundraisers in any Christianorganization will find extraordinary insights in this importantguide.Trade Review"Most Christians who raise money say they want to serve, love, andnurture their donors. Finally, here is a book which can turn thatdesire into reality." (Robert C. Andringa, president, Council forChristian Colleges and Universities) "Practical and inspirational. A book for organizational leaders andfundraisers of faith-based groups, large and small, as well as fordonors and people of faith." (Kara Newell, executive director,American FriAnds Service Committee) "This is not a how-to-do-it, but rather a why-to-do-it written for(church) leaders...and excellent resource..." (charityvillage.com,8/01)Table of ContentsAcknowledgments. Introduction: Fundraising and the Expression of Faith. WHAT IS CHRISTIAN FUNDRAISING? Creating Resources for God's Work. What the Bible Says About Giving and Asking. A Brief History of Christian Fundraising. SIX ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FUNDRAISING AS A MINISTRY. Confidence in God's Abundance. A Holistic Perspective on `Kingdom Work'. Clarity About Core Theological Beliefs. Giving Donors Opportunities for Participation. Integrated Organizational Planning. Spiritually Mature Leadership. THE FUNDRAISER'S MINISTRY. Fundraising As a Calling. Fundraising As an Invitation to Cooperate with God's Grace. References. The Authors. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis title is a practical, hands-on, supportive fundraising training programme specifically geared to religious organizations. It provides a practical, comprehensive training package to help the leaders and members of congregations and organizations learn new strategies for raising money.Trade Review"Ask and You Shall Receive is hands-on, practical, spiritual, andspeaks to all of us who are committed to promoting a progressivereligious voice. As a Jew, I particularly appreciate the range ofexamples and the commitment to ecumenism." --Marjorie Fine,cochair, Interfaith Funders Network "Good works rely on good work, and Kim Klein's careful guidance inbuilding support for good works really helps us in the religiouscommunity do the work we intend to do." --The Reverend Hugh Wire,fundraising consultant, and board chair for fundraising, Seeds ofLearning.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Who Is This Book For? How to Use This Guide: Notes for Participants. FUNDRAISING BASICS. Who Gives, and Why? What Do You Think About Money? What You Need Before You Begin Raising Money. Completing the Case Statement. The Role of Volunteers in Fundraising. CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE STRATEGY. Overview of Fundraising Strategies and Their Uses. Special Events. The Wide World of Mail. The Direct Mail Package. Judicious Use of the Telephone. Planning Major Gifts Campaigns. CREATING A FUNDRAISING PLAN. Approaching Prospects for a Major Gift. Creating a Budget. Putting It All Together in a Fundraising Plan. Bibliography. About the Author.

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Book SynopsisThrough personal stories, proven experience and a thorough analysis of the biblical text, Building a Healthy Multi-ethnic Church illustrates both the biblical mandate for the multi-ethnic church as well as the seven core commitments required to bring it about. Mark DeYmaz, pastor of one of the most proven multi-ethnic churches in the country, writes both from his experience and his extensive study of how to plant, grow, and encourage more ethnically diverse churches. He argues that the homogenous unit principle will soon become irrelevant and that the most effective way to spread the Gospel in an increasingly diverse world is through strong and vital multi-ethnic churches.Table of ContentsAbout Leadership Network xi Foreword by George Yancey xiii Preface by Mark L. Pryor xv Acknowledgments xvii Introduction xix Part One The Biblical Mandate 1. The Prayer of Christ 3 2. The Pattern at Antioch 13 3. The Pauline Mystery 27 Part Two The Seven Core Commitments of a Multi-Ethnic Church 4. Embrace Dependence 43 5. Take Intentional Steps 55 6. Empower Diverse Leadership 70 7. Develop Cross-Cultural Relationships 81 8. Pursue Cross-Cultural Competence 94 9. Promote a Spirit of Inclusion 108 10. Mobilize for Impact 119 Part Three On Planting, Revitalizing, and Transforming 11. For Those Planting a Multi-ethnic Church 135 12. For Those Revitalizing a Declining Church, by Rodney Woo 149 13. For Those Transforming a Homogeneous Church, by Kim Greenwood with John Jordan 164 Conclusion: All That We Should Be 183 Notes 185 About the Author 195 Index 197

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Book SynopsisWell-regarded Reformed thinker and author directs readers to a renewed biblical understanding and practice of the Great Commission.

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Book SynopsisMost seminary graduates will begin their ministries with plenty of important head knowledge to share--but with a deficit of some of the most practical aspects of doing ministry, such as- which ministry role most suits them- how to start out strong at a new church- persevering during difficult seasons of ministry- leading meetings and delegating tasks- safeguarding their family- fighting discouragement, pastor envy, and a lack of contentment- navigating special ministry needs, such as hospitals, weddings, and funerals- and much moreThrough his hard-won wisdom, Jason Helopoulos comes alongside new pastors as a trusted friend and mentor, ready to guide them through their first years of ministry with intelligence and compassion.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing analysis based on the latest sociological data from the Barna Group, pastor and influencer Glenn Packiam helps Christian leaders reflect on the rich theology of their calling and bring the bright hope that Jesus is alive to their congregants.

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Book SynopsisNo one can deny our culture is opposed to Christian values, and the influences bombarding our children''s moral development are difficult to contend with. But few parents and church leaders realize that a child''s moral development is set by the age of nine. It is therefore critical to start developing a child''s biblical worldview from the very earliest years of life.The problem is complex: parents who themselves did not receive early spiritual training leave their children''s training to the church. Yet the church often focuses on older children. The answer is for churches to come alongside parents to provide them biblical worldview training, parenting information, and counseling that will equip them to help their children become the spiritually mature church of tomorrow. This helpful and hopeful book unpacks just how to develop this kind of dynamic church/parent relationship and includes profiles of churches that are effectively ministering to children and winning the war

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Book SynopsisThere is often an unfortunate division between the technical work of biblical scholars and the practical work of preachers who construct sermons each week. These two fields of study, which ought to be mutually informed and supportive, are more often practically divided by divergent methods, interests, and goals. Narrative Reading, Narrative Preaching aims to bridge that divide. Using narrative as an organizing theme, the contributors work through the New Testament offering examples of how interpretation can rightly inform proclamation. Three pairs of chapters feature an exemplary reading by a New Testament scholar followed by a sermon informed by that reading. Introductory and concluding chapters provide guidance for application of the model. Pastors and seminarians will find here a uniquely practical work that will help them with both the reading and preaching of Scripture.

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Book SynopsisThompson articulates Paul's pastoral vision for transformed communities, drawing pastoral insights from Paul's writings.

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Book SynopsisDean Borgman, a nationally known youth ministry expert, offers a new edition of his influential classic. Reaching a broadly ecumenical audience, this book challenges readers to think about the theological nature of youth ministry. Questions for discussion and reflection are included. This thoroughly updated edition was previously published as When Kumbaya Is Not Enough.Praise for the first edition'Writing with the lens of a theologian, the heart of a pastor, and welcome doctrinal breadth, Borgman has provided a ''field book'' of pastoral theologies that takes seriously the social systems shaping the lives of adolescents. This book is a significant step toward the long-awaited conversation about theology and youth ministry in postmodern culture.'--Kenda Creasy Dean, Princeton Theological Seminary; author of Almost Christian'In this excellent work Borgman brings theological integrity, depth, and years of wisdom like nothing else ITable of ContentsContentsPart 1: Practical Theological Foundations1. Introducing a Theology for Youth Ministry2. The Art of Interpretation3. The Practice of Interpretation4. Basic Theology for Youth Ministers5. From General Theology to Practical Theology for Youth MinistryPart 2: Theology of Persons6. Theology of Growth and Development7. Theology of Personhood and Community8. Theology of Family and Peers9. Theology of SexualityPart 3: Practical Theology Engaging Culture10. Theologizing about Culture and Cultures11. Relating to Christ in Culture12. Practical Theology in a Digital Age13. Theology and Ministry in a Consumerist Age14. Funny Theology?Part 4: Practical Theology for Holistic Youth Ministry15. Where Practical Theology Meets Holistic Ministry16. The High Calling of Ministry with YouthIndex

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Book SynopsisThis five-view work brings together leading voices to present major views on youth ministry, giving readers resources to develop their own approach.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: Why This Book?Introducing the AuthorsView One: Greg StierThe Gospel Advancing View of MinistryResponses to the Gospel Advancing View Brian Cosby Chap Clark Fernando Arzola Ron Hunter Greg Stier's ResponseView Two: Brian CosbyThe Reformed View of Youth MinistryResponses to the Reformed View Greg Stier Chap Clark Fernando Arzola Ron Hunter Brian Cosby's ResponseView Three: Chap ClarkThe Adoption View of Youth MinistryResponses to the Adoption View Greg Stier Brian Cosby Fernando Arzola Ron Hunter Chap Clark's ResponseView Four: Fernando ArzolaThe Ecclesial View of Youth MinistryResponses to the Ecclesial View Greg Stier Brian Cosby Chap Clark Ron Hunter Fernando Arzola's ResponseView Five: Ron HunterThe D6 View of Youth MinistryResponses to the D6 View Greg Stier Brian Cosby Chap Clark Fernando Arzola Ron Hunter's ResponseAfterword: Where from Here?

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Book SynopsisNew and seasoned pastors alike will find this a welcome source of inspiration and instruction on how they can relate and minister to people of all ages.

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Book SynopsisYoung adult ministry expert offers practical steps for ministering effectively to Millennials, including success stories and failures and transferable principles for mobilizing a generation toward Jesus.

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Book SynopsisThis is a classic that has stood the test of time. For forty-five years, seminary students and pastors have benefited from the principles found in this book. Two of Koller''s popular texts, Expository Preaching without Notes and Sermons Preached without Notes, are combined in a single volume that allows preachers to prepare and deliver sermons without being tied to a manuscript or even outlines or notes. Among the eighteen topics discussed are the biblical conception of preaching, the advantages of preaching without notes, homiletical devices, the importance of structure, and the systematic filing of materials. Now repackaged for the next generation of preachers, with a foreword by current Northern Seminary preaching professor Michael J. Quicke, How to Preach without Notes is poised to continue its history of strong and steady sales.

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Book SynopsisA leading psychologist, seminary professor, and pastor offers a comprehensive textbook on twelve areas of pastoral ministry, articulating a biblical model for shepherding God's people.Table of ContentsContents Foreword by John Ortberg Part 1: Biblical and Theological Foundations of Pastoral Ministry 1. A Biblical Perspective on Pastoral and Church Ministry 2. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit as Crucial and Essential for Pastoral Ministry 3. The Spiritual Life of the Pastor 4. The Personal and Family Life of the Pastor Part 2: Areas of Pastoral Ministry 5. Preaching and Teaching 6. Corporate Worship 7. Intentional Disciplemaking and Spiritual Formation 8. Evangelism, Missions, and Social Concern 9. Leadership 10. Mentoring of Church Staff and Lay Volunteer Coworkers 11. Pastoral Care and Counseling 12. Church Boards, Budgets, and Buildings 13. Weddings and Funerals 14. Small Groups and Fellowships 15. Integrity and Ethics 16. Leaving and Retiring Epilogue Indexes

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Book SynopsisBased on an integrated and robust vision of preaching, this clearly written book moves preachers from the biblical text to an effective sermon.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction1. Getting Ready2. Discerning Theology3. Deriving Application4. Creating Maps5. Fleshing Moves6. Illustrating Ideas7. Crafting Introductions and Conclusions8. Producing Manuscripts9. Delivering SermonsConclusionAppendix A: Big Idea versus Theological FocusAppendix B: Preaching--Argumentation versus DemonstrationAppendix C: Annotated Sermon Manuscript--Ephesians 1:1-14Appendix D: Annotated Sermon Manuscript--Genesis 26:1-33Index

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Book SynopsisOutreach 2019 Recommended Resource of the Year (Youth and Children)Teens and emerging adults don''t feel at home in the church because they are not fully included in the church body. How can congregations nurture young adults, welcome them as siblings into God''s household, and empower them to become fully embedded contributors within and to their faith community?Integrating the latest research on adolescent faith and young adult ministry for the local church, this book presents a new way of thinking about youth ministry. Chap Clark offers today''s youth leaders highly practical principles based on his extensive experience, showing how they can implement a sustainable youth ministry program in their local church. He presents the adoptive youth ministry model as a way to help congregations see youth ministry as a bridge to inclusion, participation, and contribution in the body of Christ. Clark''s comprehensive plan for designTable of ContentsContentsForeword Steven ArgueWelcome to the Adoptive Church1. Creating an Adoptive Youth MinistryPart 1: The Goal of an Adoptive Church2. Adoptive Youth Ministry: From Me to Us3. Creating Environments Where Faith Families Flourish4. Making Disciples among Siblings: The Adoptive Process of Christian Formation5. The Goal of Ministry in an Adoptive ChurchPart 2: The Structure of Adoptive Youth Ministry6. Implementing Adoptive Youth Ministry7. The Power of Partners8. Building Your Ministry TeamPart 3: The Fundamental Practices of Adoptive Churches9. Nurture and the Ministry of Going10. Beyond Participation: The Power of Empowerment11. Adoptive Youth Ministry and the Challenge of ChangeAppendix: Adoptive Church 101Index

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Book SynopsisThe intellectual ferment of the Victorian era posed a substantial challenge to religious institutions. In Canada as elsewhere the focus of religious belief, epecially in the Protestant sects, shifted perceptibly away from spiritual concerns. David B. Marshall explores the ways in which the clergy responded to these changes.Faced with war, depression, and the absence of religious revival in the twentieth century, a crisis in theology emerged: the church and religion seemed 'marginal.' Ministers strained to find a 'preachable gospel.' Sensing that their congregations were growing indifferent to spiritual homilies and references to the supernatural, ministers spoke of the Christian mission in the world with growing reference to morality and the obligation to create social justice. God ceased to be transcendant being and Jesus became a historial man actively engaged in the concerns of the world rather than the son of God showing the way to personal salvation. Clergymen no longer

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Book SynopsisClaire M. Waters offers an original examination of the preacher's unique role as an intermediary-standing between heaven and earth, between God and people, participating in and responsible to both sides of that divide.Trade Review"Waters's book is remarkable in the range of sources employed and the attention paid to each genre and work in its cultural context. . . . Her book makes a significant new contribution to the growing field of sermon studies and should also be taken seriously by students of intellectual history who seek to understand the complex roles preachers and preaching played in the later Middle Ages." * Journal of Religion *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Chapter 1 The Golden Chains of Citation Chapter 2 Holy Duplicity: The Preacher's Two Faces Chapter 3 A Manner of Speaking: Access and the Vernacular Chapter 4 "Mere Words": Gendered Eloquence and Christian Preaching Chapter 5 Transparent Bodies and the Redemption of Rhetoric Chapter 6 The Alibi of Female Authority Chapter 7 Sermones ad Status and Old Wives' Tales; or, The Audience Talks Back List of Abbreviations Notes Bibliography Index

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisExplores the theological understanding of the homily, lessons from classical and contemporary rhetoric, the relevance of preaching for the life of the Church, highlighting recent teachings of the Magisterium, and it presents the incarnation as the foundation for preaching, understood as an essential aspect of the priestly life and mission.

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Book SynopsisAfter almost twenty-seven years of his pontificate, what was John Paul II's legacy regarding the ministerial priesthood? What answers did he give to the questions still surrounding this reality today? Nilson Leal de Sa CB, examines the pontiff's twenty-seven letters of Holy Thursday addressed annually to the priests.

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Book SynopsisThe Word made flesh is manifested in the lives of those dedicated to his proclamation. The Power of Patristic Preaching presents seven early preachers who show, by life and speech, the divine Word's power at work in weak human life.

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Book SynopsisExamines themes associated with episcopal unity. By surveying the Christian tradition, beginning with the scriptures and then through various periods (Apostolic generation, patristic, scholastic, Vatican II, recent post Vatican II developments such as synodality) a coherent picture of episcopal togetherness is presented.Trade ReviewA great deal of learning and experience is distilled into its brief but substantial chapters. At a time when bishops themselves have been very much under scrutiny, both in the US and elsewhere, Unity in Christ offers a valuable and revealing window into episcopal life, and into the relationships and self-understanding of bishops themselves."" - Rev. Paul McPartlan, Carl J. Peter Professor of Systematic Theology and Ecumenism at The Catholic University of America

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Book SynopsisEvery Sunday in Lambarene, Gabon, Albert Schweitzer delivered an outdoor sermon in French. Although never intended for publication, the sermons were transcribed by some of Schweitzer's listeners. This text includes works that characterize Schweitzer's simplicity of language.

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Book SynopsisJessica Johnson draws on a decade of fieldwork at Pastor Mark Driscoll's Mars Hill Church in Seattle to show how congregants became entangled in a process of religious conviction through which they embodied Driscoll's teaching on gender and sexuality in ways that supported the church's growth.Trade Review"The enthralling story of the rise and fall of Mark Driscoll, former pastor of the defunct evangelical megachurch Mars Hill in Seattle. . . . Johnson is a talented storyteller. . . ." * Publishers Weekly *"The saga of Mars Hill Church and its founder/pastor/charlatan Mark Driscoll . . . is treated to a thoughtful, scholarly dissection in this essential book by UW lecturer Jessica Johnson. It’s almost impossible to discuss Driscoll’s ignominious legacy without letting one’s language be infected by ideological zeal (guilty). That’s why Johnson’s ethnographic approach, which focuses on the shrewd process by which Mars Hill recruited, flattered, and manipulated its herd, with special attention paid to issues of class, race, gender, and socialization." -- Sean Nelson * The Stranger *"With deep insight and an absence of judgment, Johnson interprets the driving forces behind Driscoll’s rhetoric, and the toxic effect it had on the believers who followed him." -- Claire Foster * Foreword Reviews *"Johnson’s book reminds us that Driscoll was real, that Mars Hill did loom large over the Seattle skyline, and that Driscoll’s liturgy was just as creepy and harmful as we remember it to be, if not more." -- Paul Constant * Seattle Review of Books *"This fascinating ethnographic study of Mars Hill, a 13,000-member megachurch led by Mark Driscoll, provides a thorough explanation of how toxic masculinity and militarism were turned into tools for growing an evangelical empire." * WATER *"Biblical Porn is useful not only to scholars of congregations, but also to anyone who needs help understanding how shame, fear, and bullying, as well as hope, can co-exist and invest people into institutions that, to an outsider, look clearly harmful to them." -- Rebecca Barrett-Fox * Reading Religion *"Jessica Johnson’s Biblical Porn is a magnificent contribution to the field of anthropology, especially given anthropology’s affective turn in recent years. Moreover, it is a meaningful contribution to both religious studies and gender studies given its attention to evangelicalism in the America and masculinist studies. . . . Her attention to affect and affect theory, though, is what makes Biblical Porn stand out as an original contribution to all of these fields." -- Alejandro Stephano Escalante * Religion and Gender *“Johnson draws from fields such as continental philosophy, critical theory, affect theory, feminist theory, media studies, cinema studies, and pornography studies in her work, and does so frequently and adeptly. Indeed, thanks to the skill of the author and the breadth of her readings, this book could almost be used as a survey of these fields.” -- Jon Bialecki * Current Anthropology *“Based on a decade-long study..., Johnson offers a theoretically rich and emotionally moving account of how sex served as a lynchpin in the church’s militarized theology, establishment of spiritual authority, and affective sense of belonging in the community.” -- Courtney Ann Irby * Journal of the American Academy of Religion *“Johnson’s candid reflection on the personal impact of her research demonstrates the affective impact of Mars Hill and Mark Driscoll, which she has captured and communicated disturbingly well. Her personal reflection is a welcome strand of this complex work which gives the reader a unique viewpoint. . . . Johnson’s work provides valuable insights, particularly in relation to the use of media technologies in recruiting affective labor.” -- Amy White * Journal of Religion, Media and Digital Culture *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments vii Introduction 1 1. Arousing Empire 44 2. Under Conviction 76 3. Porn Again Christian? 111 4. The Porn Path 136 5. Campaigning for Empire 163 Conclusion. Godly Sorrow, Worldly Sorrow 185 Notes 195 Bibliography 229 Index 235

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Book SynopsisJessica Johnson draws on a decade of fieldwork at Pastor Mark Driscoll's Mars Hill Church in Seattle to show how congregants became entangled in a process of religious conviction through which they embodied Driscoll's teaching on gender and sexuality in ways that supported the church's growth.Trade Review"The enthralling story of the rise and fall of Mark Driscoll, former pastor of the defunct evangelical megachurch Mars Hill in Seattle. . . . Johnson is a talented storyteller. . . ." * Publishers Weekly *"The saga of Mars Hill Church and its founder/pastor/charlatan Mark Driscoll . . . is treated to a thoughtful, scholarly dissection in this essential book by UW lecturer Jessica Johnson. It’s almost impossible to discuss Driscoll’s ignominious legacy without letting one’s language be infected by ideological zeal (guilty). That’s why Johnson’s ethnographic approach, which focuses on the shrewd process by which Mars Hill recruited, flattered, and manipulated its herd, with special attention paid to issues of class, race, gender, and socialization." -- Sean Nelson * The Stranger *"With deep insight and an absence of judgment, Johnson interprets the driving forces behind Driscoll’s rhetoric, and the toxic effect it had on the believers who followed him." -- Claire Foster * Foreword Reviews *"Johnson’s book reminds us that Driscoll was real, that Mars Hill did loom large over the Seattle skyline, and that Driscoll’s liturgy was just as creepy and harmful as we remember it to be, if not more." -- Paul Constant * Seattle Review of Books *"This fascinating ethnographic study of Mars Hill, a 13,000-member megachurch led by Mark Driscoll, provides a thorough explanation of how toxic masculinity and militarism were turned into tools for growing an evangelical empire." * WATER *"Biblical Porn is useful not only to scholars of congregations, but also to anyone who needs help understanding how shame, fear, and bullying, as well as hope, can co-exist and invest people into institutions that, to an outsider, look clearly harmful to them." -- Rebecca Barrett-Fox * Reading Religion *"Jessica Johnson’s Biblical Porn is a magnificent contribution to the field of anthropology, especially given anthropology’s affective turn in recent years. Moreover, it is a meaningful contribution to both religious studies and gender studies given its attention to evangelicalism in the America and masculinist studies. . . . Her attention to affect and affect theory, though, is what makes Biblical Porn stand out as an original contribution to all of these fields." -- Alejandro Stephano Escalante * Religion and Gender *“Johnson draws from fields such as continental philosophy, critical theory, affect theory, feminist theory, media studies, cinema studies, and pornography studies in her work, and does so frequently and adeptly. Indeed, thanks to the skill of the author and the breadth of her readings, this book could almost be used as a survey of these fields.” -- Jon Bialecki * Current Anthropology *“Based on a decade-long study..., Johnson offers a theoretically rich and emotionally moving account of how sex served as a lynchpin in the church’s militarized theology, establishment of spiritual authority, and affective sense of belonging in the community.” -- Courtney Ann Irby * Journal of the American Academy of Religion *“Johnson’s candid reflection on the personal impact of her research demonstrates the affective impact of Mars Hill and Mark Driscoll, which she has captured and communicated disturbingly well. Her personal reflection is a welcome strand of this complex work which gives the reader a unique viewpoint. . . . Johnson’s work provides valuable insights, particularly in relation to the use of media technologies in recruiting affective labor.” -- Amy White * Journal of Religion, Media and Digital Culture *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments vii Introduction 1 1. Arousing Empire 44 2. Under Conviction 76 3. Porn Again Christian? 111 4. The Porn Path 136 5. Campaigning for Empire 163 Conclusion. Godly Sorrow, Worldly Sorrow 185 Notes 195 Bibliography 229 Index 235

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Book SynopsisTracing the lives of some two hundred Native Hawaiian teachers, preachers, pastors, and missionaries, Na Kahu provides new historical perspectives of the indigenous ministry in Hawaiâi.

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