Religious social and pastoral thought and activity Books

Book SynopsisDrawing from the Bible, Matt McCullough answers the questionDoes God love everyone?, explaining the difference between God's genuine love for all people and his specific love for those who trust in him.

Read more less

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

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn thishardcover edition, long-time author and teacher John Piper draws from the preaching ministry of Jonathan Edwards to encourage pastors and leaders to gladly preach the cross, for the glory of God, to a people hungry for God and his word.Includes four extra chaptersnot included in the original edition.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this addition to the Church Questions series, pastor Conrad Mbewe explains the Bible's teaching on God's sovereignty, addresses the common questions that it raises, and shows how it affects one's outlook on salvation, suffering, prayer, and worship in the Christian life.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this booklet, Dane Ortlund explains what Scripture has to say about the awful realities of hell and the wonderful grace of the gospel.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this addition to the Church Questions series, Samuel James addresses how doctrine influences every area of life, shaping how believers feel, think, and act.

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Go and Do Likewise, Amy DiMarcangelo explores how the gospel compels Christians to extend God's mercy in their everyday lifedisplaying his compassion, justice, generosity, and love to those who need it most.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis companion study guide covers all 12 chapters ofThe Compelling Community, featuring the main idea of each chapter, a Bible passage to study, questions for reflection and discussion, and more.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDoes God Care about Gender Identity? compares the core beliefs and practices of the transgender movement with the fundamental truths expressed in Scripture, encouraging readers to live out their God-given identity.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhy Do We Feel Lonely at Church? addresses the loneliness epidemic facing the church, encourages readers to pursue a life of fellowship, and urges church leaders to cultivate communities that reflect Jesus's mission, ministry, and care.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the early 1880s, proponents of what came to be called the social gospel founded what is now known as social ethics. This ambitious and magisterial book describes the tradition of social ethics: one that began with the distinctly modern idea that Christianity has a social-ethical mission to transform the structures of society in the direction of social justice. Charts the story of social ethics - the idea that Christianity has a social-ethical mission to transform society - from its roots in the nineteenth century through to the present day Discusses and analyzes how different traditions of social ethics evolved in the realms of the academy, church, and general public Looks at the wide variety of individuals who have been prominent exponents of social ethics from academics and self-styled public intellectuals through to pastors and activists Set to become the definitive reference guide to the history and development of social ethics RecipTrade ReviewA masterful, careful, and encyclopedic history of Christian social ethics--from the social gospel to Christian realism to liberationist theologies and beyond. It is simply the definitive history of Christian social ethics in the US--a must-read for scholars, students, and practitioners alike. (Choice) In this magnificent, sprawling and monumental book, Gary Dorrien maps the origins and development of Christian social ethics in the U.S. by making an insightful analysis of its three major traditions and numerous alternatives. Social Ethics in the Making will soon be recognized as a classic. It is a captivating, expertly written and exhaustively researched pilgrimage through the changing landscape of Christian social ethics. (The Christian Century)Table of ContentsPlates x Acknowledgments xiv Introduction 1 1. Inventing Social Ethics: Francis Greenwood Peabody, William Jewett Tucker, and Graham Taylor 6 Becoming Francis Greenwood Peabody 7 Philosophies of Moral Philosophy 10 Beyond Moral Philosophy: Social Ethics 15 The Social Question, William Jewett Tucker, and Liberal Theology 20 Jesus and the Social Question 25 Up from Slavery: The Race Problem in the Social Question 29 Retreating to the Seminaries 32 Getting Peabody Right 35 Christian Sociology: Graham Taylor 36 The Social Gospel in the Classroom and Public Square 44 2. The Social Gospel: Washington Gladden, Josiah Strong, Walter Rauschenbusch, and Harry F. Ward 60 Good Theology and the Social Good: Washington Gladden 61 The Social Gospel Difference and the Challenge of Darwinism 69 Manifest Destiny and the Crucible of Race: Fiske, Gladden, and Josiah Strong 73 The Great War and the Social Gospel 79 The Socialist Kingdom of God: Walter Rauschenbusch 83 Asking the Social Question 87 The Kingdom as Political Theology 89 German America and the Wider Kingdom 92 The Social Crisis and the Social Gospel 94 The Social Gospel Ascending 97 Christianizing the American Order 99 The Great War and the Social Gospel 104 Social Christianity and Radical Reconstruction: Harry F. Ward 109 Ward, Reinhold Niebuhr, and the Soviet Spirit 120 3. Lift Every Voice: Reverdy C. Ransom, Jane Addams, and John A. Ryan 146 Becoming Reverdy C. Ransom 147 Mainstreaming the Black Social Gospel 158 Fostering Democratic Citizenship: Jane Addams 168 Democracy, Social Ethics, and Pragmatism 175 Social Doctrine in Action: John A. Ryan 185 Mainstreaming the Catholic Social Gospel 199 4. Christian Realism: Reinhold Niebuhr, H. Richard Niebuhr, John C. Bennett, and Paul Ramsey 226 Becoming Reinhold Niebuhr 226 Rejecting Social Gospel Idealism 236 H. Richard Niebuhr, Liberal Religion, and Radical Monotheism 239 Christian Realism as Socialist Faith 244 Niebuhrian Realism, World War II, and the Cold War 259 The Niebuhrian Method and Legacy 271 Making Sense of Niebuhrian Realism: John C. Bennett and Paul Ramsey 276 A New Liberal Consensus? 287 5. Social Christianity as Public Theology: Walter G. Muelder, James Luther Adams, John Courtney Murray, and Dorothy Day 305 Socializing Personalist Theory: Walter G. Muelder 306 Moral Theory, Culture, and Christian Social Ethics 316 Personalism against the Current 320 James Luther Adams and Unitarian Christianity 324 Rethinking Religious Freedom and Pluralism: John Courtney Murray 334 The American Idea and the Catholic Presence 349 Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker Movement 361 6. Liberationist Disruptions: Martin Luther King Jr, James H. Cone, Mary Daly, and Beverly W. Harrison 390 Martin Luther King Jr and the Beloved Community 391 James H. Cone and Black Liberation Theology 396 Beyond Patriarchal Religion: Mary Daly and the Rebirth of Feminism 411 Christian Feminist Liberation Ethics: Beverly W. Harrison 421 7. Disputing and Expanding the Tradition: Carl F. H. Henry, John Howard Yoder, Stanley Hauerwas, Michael Novak, and Jim Wallis 447 Carl F. H. Henry and the New Evangelicalism 448 John Howard Yoder and the Politics of Jesus 460 Thinking Christian Pacifism Through: Stanley M. Hauerwas 474 Ideological Americanism: The Neoconservative Reaction 488 Michael Novak and Democratic Capitalism 489 Interrogating Liberation Theology and the Catholic Bishops 503 Progressive Evangelicalism: Jim Wallis 512 8. Dealing with Modernity and Postmodernity: Charles Curran, James M. Gustafson, Gibson Winter, Cornel West, Katie G. Cannon, and Victor Anderson 533 Moral Theology and the Curran Controversy 534 Naturalistic Theocentrism: James M. Gustafson 544 Elements for a Social Ethic: Gibson Winter 549 Prophetic Public Criticism: Cornel West 563 Womanist Ethics: Katie Geneva Cannon 584 Taking Postmodernity Seriously: Victor Anderson 592 9. Economy, Sexuality, Ecology, Difference: Max L. Stackhouse, Dennis P. McCann, Lisa Sowle Cahill, Marvin M. Ellison, John B. Cobb, Jr, Larry Rasmussen, Daniel C. Maguire, Sharon Welch, Emilie M. Townes, Ada María Isasi-Díaz, María Pilar Aquino, and David Hollenbach 611 Capitalist Apologetics as Public Theology: Max Stackhouse and Dennis McCann 612 Right Ordering and Sexual Difference 616 Lisa Sowle Cahill: Sources, Norms, and Moral Reasoning 618 Marvin M. Ellison: Sexual Justice 621 Debating Economic Democracy 624 Ecology as Political Economics and Theology 626 Eco-Justice for the Sake of Everything: Larry Rasmussen and Daniel C. Maguire 630 Sharon Welch: Toward an Ethic of Risk and Conflict 637 Emilie Townes: Womanism and the Cultural Production of Evil 640 Latina Feminisms: Ada María Isasi-Díaz and María Pilar Aquino 646 Human Rights and Catholic Social Ethics: David Hollenbach 657 10. Borders of Possibility: The Necessity of “Discredited” Social Gospel Ideas 674 Social Ethics and Racial Justice 677 Foreign Policy Realism and American Empire 680 Economic Democracy: The Future of a Discredited Vision 683 Index 692

Read more less

Book SynopsisIrreconcilable differences drive the division between progressive and conservative Christiansis there a divorce coming?Much attention has been paid to political polarization in America, but far less to the growing schism between progressive and conservative Christians. In this groundbreaking new book, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk offer the provocative contention that progressive and conservative Christianities have diverged so much in their core values that they ought to be thought of as two separate religions. The authors draw on both quantitative data and interviews to uncover how progressive and conservative Christians determine with whom they align themselves religiously, and how they distinguish themselves from each other. They find that progressive Christians emphasize political agreement relating to social justice issues as they determine who is part of their in-group, and focus less on theological agreement. Among conservative Christians, on the other hand, the major concerTrade ReviewYancey and Quosigk address what makes a distinct, separate religion, as opposed to a variation within a larger faith tradition ... They find that progressive Evangelicals were less comfortable with the descriptor “Evangelical,” and were more apt to make common cause with fellow progressives than conservative Evangelicals and to avoid collaboration even where interests converge. Yancey and Quosigk find that religious motivation also diverges: conservatives ground their actions in their desire to pattern their lives on a biblically derived imperative, while progressives look instead to humanitarian ideals. * Library Journal *One Faith No Longer upends the conventional wisdom that conservative Christians are uniquely prone to falling captive to unbiblical political ideologies, or that conservative Christians are filled with rage toward their theological opponents. Through research and interviews, Yancey and Quosigk demonstrate the opposite: it’s progressives who rarely defy political orthodoxy and who harbor disdain for conservatives. And the hardening lines between these two groups add weight to the thesis of J. Gresham Machen a century ago: when it comes to Christianity and theological liberalism, we really are talking about two different religions. * The Gospel Coalition *Traces the fault lines of an entrenched division in Christian identities between progressives and conservatives, explored in the light of divergent attitudes to Islam and Muslims. The bifurcation runs deep, cutting across long-established identities such as ‘Protestant,’ ‘Catholic,’ and ‘Evangelical,’ to the extent of calling into question the continued relevance of the term Christian as a shared label. The authors’ prophetic thesis anticipates a permanent parting of the ways—one religion becoming two—which will dramatically reshape the role of faith in America’s public life. -- Mark Durie, Senior Research Fellow, Melbourne School of TheologyIn this provocative new book, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk boldly argue that progressive and conservative Christians have diverged so much in their politics, theologies, and sources of meaning that we should now think of them as different religions. Bolstered with forensic quantitative analysis and refreshing, original qualitative work, their argument is as compelling as it will be controversial. . . . A must-read for those wishing to learn more about the United States’ ‘culture war’ and the role of religion in it. -- Gladys Ganiel, co-author of The Deconstructed Church: Understanding Emerging ChristianityIn their rigorous sociological account of Christianity in America today, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk provide many important insights, particularly in relation to progressive Christians, though overall the book simply confirms the enduring truth that Christians have always disagreed among themselves about faith and politics. -- Lee Trepainer * The Public Discourse *Their book’s central argument is that conservative and progressive Christians have become so different in the ways they determine social identity and moral values that they ought to be thought of as separate religions. This conclusion will ring true for anyone who pays attention to the news. -- The Christian Century * The Christian Century *Yancey (sociology, Baylor Univ.) and Quosigk (visiting scholar, religion, Univ. of Georgia) assert that… it is no longer meaningful to use the rubric Christian to describe both conservative and progressive churches. -- D. A. Brown, emeritus, California State University, Fullerton * CHOICE *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIrreconcilable differences drive the division between progressive and conservative Christiansis there a divorce coming?Much attention has been paid to political polarization in America, but far less to the growing schism between progressive and conservative Christians. In this groundbreaking new book, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk offer the provocative contention that progressive and conservative Christianities have diverged so much in their core values that they ought to be thought of as two separate religions. The authors draw on both quantitative data and interviews to uncover how progressive and conservative Christians determine with whom they align themselves religiously, and how they distinguish themselves from each other. They find that progressive Christians emphasize political agreement relating to social justice issues as they determine who is part of their in-group, and focus less on theological agreement. Among conservative Christians, on the other hand, the major concerTrade Review"Yancey and Quosigk address what makes a distinct, separate religion, as opposed to a variation within a larger faith tradition ... They find that progressive Evangelicals were less comfortable with the descriptor “Evangelical,” and were more apt to make common cause with fellow progressives than conservative Evangelicals and to avoid collaboration even where interests converge. Yancey and Quosigk find that religious motivation also diverges: conservatives ground their actions in their desire to pattern their lives on a biblically derived imperative, while progressives look instead to humanitarian ideals." * Library Journal *"One Faith No Longer upends the conventional wisdom that conservative Christians are uniquely prone to falling captive to unbiblical political ideologies, or that conservative Christians are filled with rage toward their theological opponents. Through research and interviews, Yancey and Quosigk demonstrate the opposite: it’s progressives who rarely defy political orthodoxy and who harbor disdain for conservatives. And the hardening lines between these two groups add weight to the thesis of J. Gresham Machen a century ago: when it comes to Christianity and theological liberalism, we really are talking about two different religions." * The Gospel Coalition *"Traces the fault lines of an entrenched division in Christian identities between progressives and conservatives, explored in the light of divergent attitudes to Islam and Muslims. The bifurcation runs deep, cutting across long-established identities such as ‘Protestant,’ ‘Catholic,’ and ‘Evangelical,’ to the extent of calling into question the continued relevance of the term Christian as a shared label. The authors’ prophetic thesis anticipates a permanent parting of the ways—one religion becoming two—which will dramatically reshape the role of faith in America’s public life." -- Mark Durie, Senior Research Fellow, Melbourne School of Theology"In this provocative new book, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk boldly argue that progressive and conservative Christians have diverged so much in their politics, theologies, and sources of meaning that we should now think of them as different religions. Bolstered with forensic quantitative analysis and refreshing, original qualitative work, their argument is as compelling as it will be controversial. . . . A must-read for those wishing to learn more about the United States’ ‘culture war’ and the role of religion in it." -- Gladys Ganiel, co-author of The Deconstructed Church: Understanding Emerging Christianity"In their rigorous sociological account of Christianity in America today, George Yancey and Ashlee Quosigk provide many important insights, particularly in relation to progressive Christians, though overall the book simply confirms the enduring truth that Christians have always disagreed among themselves about faith and politics." -- Lee Trepainer * The Public Discourse *"Their book’s central argument is that conservative and progressive Christians have become so different in the ways they determine social identity and moral values that they ought to be thought of as separate religions. This conclusion will ring true for anyone who pays attention to the news." -- The Christian Century * The Christian Century *"Yancey (sociology, Baylor Univ.) and Quosigk (visiting scholar, religion, Univ. of Georgia) assert that… it is no longer meaningful to use the rubric Christian to describe both conservative and progressive churches." -- D. A. Brown, emeritus, California State University, Fullerton * CHOICE *

Read more less

Book SynopsisUncovers why Catholic organizations fail to foster civic activismThe American Catholic Church boasts a long history of teaching and activism on issues of social justice. In the face of declining religious and community involvement in the twenty-first century, many modern-day Catholic groups aspire to revive the faith as well as their connections to the larger world. Yet while thousands attend weekly meetings designed to instill religiosity and a commitment to civic engagement, these programs often fail to achieve their more large-scale goals.In Catholic Activism Today, Maureen K. Day sheds light on the impediments to successfully enacting social change. She argues that popular organizations such as JustFaith Ministries have embraced an approach to civic engagement that focuses on mobilizing Catholics as individuals rather than as collectives. There is reason to think this approach is effectivethese organizations experience robust participation in their progTrade ReviewAn illuminating case for anyone interested in civic engagement, religious or not, especially in the tensions between justice and charity. For sociologists and theologians alike, Day also offers thought-provoking discussion about the role of the Catholic Church in the American public square. * Sociology of Religion *With empathic sensitivity to the twists and turns in individuals’ lives and their spiritual journeys, Maureen Day illuminates the centrality of Catholic faith and purposeful community in cultivating impactful civic engagement notwithstanding the structural forces that foster economic and social inequality. Using thoughtful interview and observation data, her gentle, yet rigorous, narrative persuades us that individuals’ everyday decisions and actions have a ripple effect in the crafting of a better, more morally authoritative, society. -- Michele Dillon, Dean, College of Liberal Arts, University of New HampshireMasterfully captures the contemporary relocation of Catholic activism from institution-building to personal transformation. Catholic Activism Today offers vital lessons for modern religious practice, the public role of Catholicism, and the dilemmas of individualism for enacting justice. -- Tricia C. Bruce, author of Parish and Place: Making Room for Diversity in the American Catholic ChurchCatholic Activism Today provides an enlightening study of how Catholic organizations, like JustFaith Ministries, are transforming individuals to engage American public life in creative new ways. * Studies in Religion/Sciences Religieuses *Day’s analysis of Catholic activism is valuable ... sheds light on how religious actors can have unique impacts on their own local contexts * Catholic Books Review *An excellent book that contributes to a great legacy of Catholic sociology of religion ... Catholic Activism Today could be helpful not just for sociologists, but for pastoral programs, church planning offices, seminaries, and schools of theology and ministry across the country. * Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion *The hope among the leadership at JustFaith Ministries is that the caring and activism learned therein will ’ripple outward’ amid the everyday lives of its participants. Interestingly, it is just this sort of rippling that is so abundantly evident in Maureen Day’s thoughtful and engaging study. Flowing from her analysis of this discipleship-style organization come ever-widening insights regarding contemporary American Catholicism, the strategies and dilemmas associated with grassroots activism, and, undulating still further, the prospects of living meaningful, generative lives at a time when possibilities for doing so seem to be constricting. I hope this important book will find a readership proportionate to the impressively broad scope of its concerns. -- Jerome P. Baggett, author of Sense of the Faithful: How American Catholics Live Their FaithThis readable, professional treatment of JustFaith Ministries puts the organization in the context of a larger social movement within American Catholicism. * Choice *

Read more less

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

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn Preaching and Theology in Anglo-Saxon England, Professor Gatch deals with two aspects of the writings of Ælfric and Wulfstan that have been hitherto ignored by scholars of the period.First, he investigates the uses for which the two homilists prepared their sermons, analysing the homiliaries of the Carolingian church and its legislation concerning preaching and teaching, and showing that one should look not to the model of patristic preaching but to the development, in the place of exegetical preaching, of a vernacular catechetical office, the Prone. He also considers the evidence from England in the time of Ælfric and Wulfstan, distinguishing a number of uses which Ælfric intended for his homiletic materials, but questioning whether users of Ælfric's work (Wulfstan perhaps among them) understood or accepted the basic homiletic practices that the abbot had in mind.Second, Gatch investigates the eschatological teaching of the homilists as specimen of the ove

Read more less

Book SynopsisEvery ministry needs capable and reliable volunteers, but so often it feels like no one is coming forward to fill your church's needs. In reality, the people around us do want to volunteer their time and talents, but we often fail to connect potential volunteers to ministry opportunities or lose them somewhere along the way. The Volunteer Effect is your start-to-finish guide to recruiting, leading, and retaining volunteers for your ministry. Based on solid management theory delivered in an engaging narrative form, this book shows you how to - recruit people to a mission, not just a role - create low-risk entry points - build a team that evokes pride - train them for the bigger picture - and much more Your most effective volunteers are already in your church! Let this resource show you how to find--and keep--them.

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisPublishers Weekly starred review Seasoned pastor and church leader Will Willimon excels at creating thought-provoking, accessible books for working pastors and seminarians. In Aging, he takes a theologically rich look at numerous aspects of growing old. Drawing on Scripture, literature, current research, and his experiences as an aging adult, Willimon reflects on aging as a spiritual journey. He explores the challenging realties as well as the rewarding joys of growing old and shows pastors how to help their congregants grow old gracefully and in good Christian hope. Willimon also offers practical advice on helping church members as they encounter retirement, aging, caring for the aging, loss, bereavement, and finding faith in the last quarter of life. This eloquent, delightfully Christian perspective on aging will be of interest to all who care for aging souls--not only pastors but also chaplains and other ministers in hospitals, hospices, and extended care facilities. About the Series Pastors are called to help people navigate the profound mysteries of being human, from birth to death and everything in between. This series, edited by leading pastoral theologian Jason Byassee, provides pastors and pastors-in-training with rich theological reflection on the various seasons that make up a human life, helping them minister with greater wisdom and joy.Table of ContentsContents Series Preface Introduction 1. Aging with Scripture 2. The Storm of Aging 3. Retiring with God 4. Successful Aging 5. With God in the Last Quarter of Life 6. Growing Old in Church 7. Ending in God Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis volume explores the connections between our own birth, the experience of having children, and the new birth of the Christian life. Seasoned pastor James Howell offers theological perspectives on a variety of themes associated with birth, such as who we are in light of having once lived in utero, why people might have children, infertility, adoption, baptism, and how to make sense of it all in light of God coming to us first in Mary's womb and then as an infant. The book includes paintings, photos, and drawings. About the Series Pastors are called to help people navigate the profound mysteries of being human, from birth to death and everything in between. This series, edited by leading pastoral theologian Jason Byassee, provides pastors and pastors-in-training with rich theological reflection on the various seasons that make up a human life, helping them minister with greater wisdom and joy.Table of ContentsContents Series Preface Introduction Part 1: Our Mysterious Beginning 1. In My Mother's Womb 2. My Birthday 3. Unchosenness and Being Chosen Part 2: Jesus's Birth and Early Life 4. Mary, Mother of Our Lord 5. The Birth of Jesus 6. Jesus's First Days Part 3: The Complexities of Conception and Raising Children 7. Why Have Children? 8. Having Children 9. The First Days after Birth 10. Infertility and Medicine 11. When Medicine Fails Part 4: Our New Birth 12. Adoption 13. Remember Your Baptism 14. You Must Be Born Again Epilogue Index

Read more less

Book Synopsis"A rare and wonderful theological book that turns something ordinary--being a friend--into an expression of God's greatness."--Jeremiah Rood, Foreword (starred review) In this vibrant theological reflection on the meaning of friendship, experienced pastor and leading Christian ethicist Victor Lee Austin argues that friendship is the medium through which God shares grace with his creatures. Mixing personal reflection and theological commentary, Austin provides a fresh reading of classical writers and biblical texts; shows how a robust theology of friendship addresses contemporary controversies in the areas of marriage, celibacy, and homosexuality; and draws on cultural examples of the desire for true friendship. Ultimately, Austin helps readers understand the strange yet real possibility of friendship with God. About the Series Pastors are called to help people navigate the profound mysteries of being human, from birth to death and everything in between. This series, edited by leading pastoral theologian Jason Byassee, provides pastors and pastors-in-training with rich theological reflection on the various seasons that make up a human life, helping them minister with greater wisdom and joy.Table of ContentsContentsSeries PrefaceInvocationIntroduction: An Invitation to Friendship1. The Limits of Marriage2. The Confusions of Friendship3. Friendship as Success at Being Human4. Friendship and Beauty5. The Weirdness of Divine Love6. Biblical Friendships7. Christian Friendship and Christian Love8. Unapologetic Celibacy9. Is There Friendship in the Trinity?10. Examples of Friendship11. All Together NowPostscript: Concrete Practices

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat is the role of culture in human experience? This concise yet solid introduction to cultural anthropology helps readers explore and understand this crucial issue from a Christian perspective. Now revised and updated throughout, this new edition of a successful textbook covers standard cultural anthropology topics with special attention given to cultural relativism, evolution, and missions. It also includes a new chapter on medical anthropology. Plentiful figures, photos, and sidebars are sprinkled throughout the text, and updated ancillary support materials and teaching aids are available through Baker Academic's Textbook eSources.Table of ContentsContents 1. The Discipline of Anthropology 2. Culture 3. Language 4. Social Structure and Inequality in Race, Ethnicity, and Class 5. Sex, Gender, and Sexuality 6. Economics 7. Authority and Power 8. Kinship and Marriage 9. Religion and Ritual 10. Medical Anthropology 11. Theory in Cultural Anthropology 12. Anthropology in Action Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisA veteran Baptist pastor and ministry professor offers a distinctive free church vision for pastoral leadership, attending to voices from the past four centuries as they speak about the practice of ministry. The book contains theological reflection on current ministry issues among Baptists based on biblical and historical foundations and reflects a diversity of Baptist life across time and around the world, including many different voices. Each chapter contains reflection questions to help readers consider the implications of Baptist thinking.Table of ContentsContentsIntroductionPart 1: Becoming a Pastor1. Pastoral Identity: The Shepherd and the Flock2. The Call to Ministry: More Than a Job3. Ordination: Set Apart to Serve4. Women in Ministry: Your Daughters Shall ProphesyPart 2: Proclamation: Pastor as Prophet5. The Preaching Ministry: Fire in My Bones6. Witness to the World: Sent to ProclaimPart 3: Care: Pastor as Priest7. Worship and the Ordinances: Directing Attention to God8. Pastoral Care: Tending the Flock9. Spiritual Formation: Teaching Them to Obey All That I Have CommandedPart 4: Leadership: Pastor as Servant10. Pastoral Authority: Serving Something Larger11. The Equipping Leader: Sharing Ministry12. Dreaming of the Future: Offering HopeConclusionAppendix: A Baptist Who's WhoIndexes

Read more less

Book SynopsisWe live in a world of oppositional relationships and increasing in-group/out-group divisions. Christian sociologist Matthew Vos explains how the problem of the stranger lies at the root of many problems humanity faces, such as racism, sexism, and nationalism. He applies classic sociological theory on "the stranger" to matters of faith and social justice, showing that an identity in Christ frees us to love strangers as neighbors and friends. The book also includes two guest chapters, one on intersex persons and the church and one on stranger-making in the "correctional" system.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction: Strangers among UsPart 1: Strangers and Scapegoats in Sociological Perspective1. Constructing Identity: The Self, the Social, and the Stranger2. A Stranger World: In-groups, Out-groups, and the Space Between 3. No More Scapegoats: A Stranger TheologyPart 2: Strangers on the Margins4. Strangers in the Pew: Girls and Symbolic Exclusion5. From Stranger to Neighbor: Intersex Persons and the Churchby Val Hiebert, Providence University College6. Strangers at the Borders: Immigrants and the Heart of the Gospel Message 7. Strangers behind Bars: Examining the System of Mass Incarcerationby Scott Monsma, Northwestern College8. Competing in Cedar: Nike, Superstar Athletes, and the Unseen Strangers Who Make Our ShoesPart 3: Inviting Strangers9. Challenging the Normal: The Strange(r) Reality of the Gospel10. Pursuing the Common Good: Three Stories of the NeighborIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisAlthough our planet faces numerous ecological crises, including climate change, many Christians continue to view their faith as primarily a "spiritual" matter that has little relationship to the world in which we live. But Steven Bouma-Prediger contends that protecting and restoring our planet is part and parcel of what it means to be a Christian. Making his case from Scripture, theology, and ethics and including insights from the global church, Bouma-Prediger explains why Christians must acknowledge their identity as earthkeepers and therefore embrace their calling to serve and protect their home planet and fellow creatures. To help readers put an "earthkeeping faith" into practice, he also suggests numerous practical steps that concerned believers can take to care for the planet. Bouma-Prediger unfolds a biblical vision of earthkeeping and challenges Christians to view care for the earth as an integral part of Christian discipleship.Table of Contents1. Overture: Why Read This BookBiblical Meditation: Water, Water Everywhere2. Beginning and Ending with Rivers and Trees: The Biblical Vision of EarthkeepingBiblical Meditation: God Remembers and the Earth Re-membered3. Humble Humans in a Holy World: Learning from Theology and EthicsBiblical Meditation: Lightning and Wind, Hawk and Vulture, Behemoth and Leviathan4. Ecumenical Insights: Wisdom from the Global ChurchBiblical Meditation: I Am the Good Shepherd5. Christian Faith in Action: Living What We BelieveBiblical Meditation: Peace Be with You6. Yearning for Shalom: Becoming Aching VisionariesIndexes

Read more less

Book SynopsisA must-read for every concerned American--and especially for every Christian who weeps at the graveside of his culture. --R.C. SproulA cataclysmic change has occurred as our culture has shifted toward belief in "Oneism."Every religion and philosophy fits into one of two basic worldviews: "Oneism" asserts that everything is essentially one, while "Twoism" affirms an irreducible distinction between creation and Creator. The Other Worldview exposes the pagan roots of Oneism, traces its spread throughout Western culture, and demonstrates its inability to save."For bodily holiness and transformed thinking . . . we depend entirely on one amazing thing: the incredibly powerful message of the Gospel to a sinful world, which is the ultimate expression and goal of Twoism. The only hope is in Christ alone."Trade ReviewThis is a key book for understanding the profound worldview shift in all the West (not just North America, but Latin America included). Peter Jones carefully analyzes its religious underpinnings and, in light of the Scriptures, demonstrates that there are only two choices. I highly recommend this work as the mature reflections of a scholar who has dedicated the last 20 years to this topic.--Rev. Bill Green, Executive Secretary, Confraternidad Latinoamericana de Iglesias Reformadas (CLIR), Costa RicaI have worked as a legal campaigner in Great Britain for two decades and witnessed the devastation of a politico-legal system that embraces Oneism and denies Twoism. There is a suppression of Christianity in the public sphere, robbing our nation of what is good for all. Peter Jones brilliantly explains how and why we are in such chaos, equipping us to speak and act relevantly in a culture steeped in old paganism.--Andrea Williams, Chief Executive, Christian Concern and Christian Legal Centre, London, EnglandDr. Peter Jones' new book is spot on! His historical, theological, and cultural analysis is of the highest caliber, inspiring both great concern for the Church of the 21st century and great hope. The Other Worldview is a must read for all Christian leaders who recognize and proclaim that God is the creator and we are his creation!--The Rt. Rev. Dr. Eric Vawter Menees, Anglican Diocese of San Joaquin, Fresno, CaliforniaMy good friend Peter Jones argues that the ills of modern culture stem from its denial of the biblical creator-creature distinction. Peter has made this case before, but here he presents his most substantial, detailed, and illuminating account of this modern consciousness, from ancient paganism and Gnosticism to such modern thinkers as Carl Jung. In the end Peter shows how the biblical gospel of salvation from sin in Christ provides the only adequate challenge to neo-pagan "Oneism," and the only way for us to know God as he really is.--Dr. John M. Frame, J. D. Trimble Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, FloridaFor over two decades, Peter Jones's work has proven indispensable for any Christian who wants to understand how to reach the pagan West with the gospel of Jesus Christ. In The Other Worldview, he helps readers see that there really are only two options available for how we view reality: Christianity and everything else. With the rare and enviable gift of being able to make complex ideas accessible, Dr. Jones shows that the other worldview, in its varied expressions, cannot withstand intellectual scrutiny.--Rev. Dr. Gabriel N.E. Fluhrer, Senior Minister, Shiloh Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Raleigh, North CarolinaThe velocity and intensity of the cultural death spiral is overwhelming, yet its inevitable trajectory is affirmed in Scripture. In The Other Worldview, Peter Jones, with careful Biblical analysis, unfolds the inevitable embrace of paganism and its assured dissipation--unless arrested by a God-exalting, Gospel proclamation of both common grace and redeeming grace displayed in word and deed.--Harry L. Reeder, Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, AlabamaThe Christian faith's battles are sometimes described as "culture wars," but Peter Jones' new book shows them to be nothing less than a war of worldviews. Peter is spot on when he identifies the philosophia perennis as underlying the seductive paganisms, ancient and modern, Eastern and Western. The monism and pantheism inherent in such views fail to distinguish between the Creator and the creature, the One and the many.The Bible's worldview is quite distinct from the rest of the ancient East, and the contemporary West's entanglement with "Eastern spirituality" arises out of its rejection of the biblical paradigm. Atheistic secularism is under pressure from the innate human need for the spiritual--and this provides the opportunity for myriad spiritualities that justify any and every promiscuity under the guise of being "non-judgmental." Peter is absolutely right in his trenchant criticism of the desire to reconcile opposites and thus to obscure the difference between good and evil, right and wrong--even, perhaps especially, when this is done in the name of science.Today, we need both a critique of the unexamined assumptions of Western culture and a competent apologetic for the Christian analysis of the human condition in a universe continually dependent on its Creator, who cannot simply be identified with it. We are in Peter's debt for providing such a critique and apologetic in this book.--Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali, President of the Oxford Centre for Training, Research, Advocacy and Dialogue (OXTRAD), and formerly Bishop of Rochester, EnglandIf the 21st century is looking more and more like the gnostic world of the first two centuries, we should be grateful that God has also provided another Irenaeus to go with it. Peter Jones has for decades been a prophetic voice, and here he puts his wealth of wisdom and insight into something of a magnum opus, an Against Heresies for our time--although he would rightly insist on the singular, "heresy," instead of its plural. The Other Worldview is a must-read that brilliantly explains why.--Dr. Brian Mattson, Senior Scholar of Public Theology, Center For Cultural Leadership, Coulterville, CaliforniaWhat Francis Schaeffer did for so many in the second half of the 20th century--that is, opening eyes to issues behind the issues, the deep worldview undercurrents that dehumanize and wreak havoc on culture--Peter Jones has done for us in the first half of the 21st century. The Other Worldview offers probing analysis of how Romans 1--the exchange of Creator for creation worship--has taken tragic shape in Western culture. Where many books focus on symptom-treating, Jones takes us to the disease and points us to the only possible remedy--the Gospel of Twoism.--Dr. Thaddeus Williams, Assistant Professor of Theology, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, La Mirada, California

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe goal of preaching is to let the powerful message of the Bible penetrate the lives of your congregation. A well-crafted sermon can help to bridge the gap between biblical context and contemporary application.In Excellent Preaching, Craig Bartholomew explains why we need to be acquainted with both the context of Scripture and the context in which we preach. Good contextualization is hard work, but Bartholomew shows that it can be done.Practical, accessible, and rooted in years of preaching experience, this short book helps preachers connect the message of the text to everyday life.Trade ReviewIn this masterful little book, Craig Bartholomew provides a view of preaching in which the preacher proclaims God's living and authoritative word in a manner appropriate to a specific cultural context. Along the way he teaches the reader how to view a biblical text within the context of the whole biblical narrative, preach it in a way that draws hearers closer to God and at the same time sends them out into the world, and apply it to the prevalent idolatries of our time.--Bruce Riley AshfordBartholomew's thoughts on preaching should be read by every preacher. Our congregation is richly blessed when he opens God's word to us. His singular focus on the glory of Christ in all of scripture has been inspiring to me in our friendship and partnership in preaching the gospel. This book challenges us to take our task seriously, offering practical guidance and instruction for every preacher from the recently ordained and to the seasoned pastor.--The Rev R.D. Glenn, Rector (Senior Pastor) St. George's Anglican Church, BurlingtonIn this serious and, at times, deeply challenging book Craig Bartholomew brings together many of his passions: the Bible as the story of the world, the richness of Christian spirituality, the best of Reformed theology, hermeneutics and Christian philosophy. All these are put to work on the place of preaching in the life of the Church. Flying a plane works as a powerful metaphor for this foundational task and reminds us of the most important thing in the life of a believer: arriving at the destination of God himself ... an awesome, intimate, personal and transforming encounter. Such is the accumulated Christian wisdom of Bartholomew's own life of discipleship that almost every page of this small book is full of good things, things that invite us into deeper fellowship with the Trinity. I recommend this carefully distilled wisdom without hesitation to every person who is engaged in the preaching ministry.--Rev Dr William Olhausen, Church of Ireland priest and theological adviser to the Archbishop of DublinStanding in the tradition of John Stott, with his passion for preaching that was both faithful to the biblical text and relevantly applied to the contemporary context, Craig Bartholomew argues persuasively and passionately for a revival of exactly that quality of preaching in today's church. In a short space he combines deep biblical scholarship with acute cultural analysis. Pastors who long to be effective in their primary calling - to preach the Word of God - will find encouragement, vindication and ongoing challenge in this book.--Christopher J.H. Wright, Langham Partnership

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis provocative and timely primer on the just war tradition connects just war to the concrete practices and challenges of the Christian life. Daniel Bell explains that the point is not simply to know the just war tradition but to live it even in the face of the tremendous difficulties associated with war. He shows how just war practice, if it is to be understood as a faithful form of Christian discipleship, must be rooted in and shaped by the fundamental convictions and confessions of the faith. The book includes a foreword by an Army chaplain who has served in Iraq and study questions for group use.Table of ContentsForeword: Chaplain Lt. Col. Scott A. SterlingIntroduction: Living Faithfully in a Time of War 1. Love and Evil in the Christian Life: The Emergence of Just War2. Can War Be Just? A Brief History of Just War3. Two Just War Traditions: Presuppositions and Presumptions4: Who's in Charge? Legitimate Authority5. Why Fight? Just Cause6. Why Fight? Right Intent7. When Fight? Last Resort and Reasonable Chance of Success8. How Fight? Discrimination and ProportionalityConclusion: Spirituality and Just War Appendix: Two Just War Traditions

Read more less

Book SynopsisCelebrated Theologian Offers Wisdom for Civic Engagement Christian citizens have a responsibility to make political and ethical judgments in light of their faith and to participate in the public lives of their communities--from their local neighborhoods to the national scene. But it can be difficult to discern who to vote for, which policies to support, and how to respond to the social and cultural trends of our time. This nonpartisan handbook offers Christians practical guidance for thinking through complicated public issues and faithfully following Jesus as citizens of their countries. The book focuses on enduring Christian commitments that should guide readers in their judgments and encourages legitimate debate among Christians over how to live out core values. The book also includes lists of resources for further reflection in each chapter and "room for debate" questions to consider.Table of ContentsContentsIntroductionPart 1: Commitments1. Christ the Center and Norm2. Christ, the Spirit, and Flourishing3. Reading in ContextsPart 2: Convictions4. Wealth5. The Environment6. Education7. Work and Rest8. Poverty9. Borrowing and Lending10. Marriage and Family11. New Life12. Health and Sickness13. Aging Life14. Ending Life15. Migration16. Policing17. Punishment18. War19. Torture20. Freedom of Religion (and Irreligion)Part 3: Character21. Courage22. Humility23. Justice24. Respect25. CompassionAfterwordIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith so many people around the globe migrating, how should Christians and the church respond? Leading Latino-American biblical scholar M. Daniel Carroll R. (Rodas) helps readers understand what the Bible says about immigration, offering accessible, nuanced, and sympathetic guidance for the church. After two successful editions of Christians at the Border, and having talked and written about immigration over the past decade, Carroll has sharpened his focus and refined his argument to make sure we hear clearly what the Bible says about one of the most pressing issues of our day. He has reworked the biblical material, adding insights and broadening the frame of reference beyond the US. As Carroll explores the surprising amount of material in the Old and New Testaments that deals with migration, he shows how this topic is fundamental to the message of the Bible and how it affects our understanding of God and the mission of the church.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction1. "My Father Was a Wandering Aramean": Stories of Migration in the Old TestamentThe Image of GodExperiences of the People of GodConclusion2. "You Are to Love Those Who Are Foreigners": Old Testament Law and the SojournerHospitality in the Ancient WorldLegislation concerning the SojournerConclusion3. Entertaining Angels Unawares: Hospitality for the Stranger in the New TestamentLearning from JesusChristians as SojournersThe Call to HospitalityWhat about Romans 13?ConclusionEpilogue: The Scriptures and the FutureIndexes

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisChristianity Today 2022 Book Award Winner (Politics & Public Life) Outreach 2022 Resource of the Year (Social Issues and Justice) Foreword INDIES 2021 Finalist for Religion "Kwon and Thompson's eloquent reasoning will help Christians broaden their understanding of the contemporary conversation over reparations."--Publishers Weekly "A thoughtful approach to a vital topic."--Library Journal Christians are awakening to the legacy of racism in America like never before. While public conversations regarding the realities of racial division and inequalities have surged in recent years, so has the public outcry to work toward the long-awaited healing of these wounds. But American Christianity, with its tendency to view the ministry of reconciliation as its sole response to racial injustice, and its isolation from those who labor most diligently to address these things, is underequipped to offer solutions. Because of this, the church needs a new perspective on its responsibility for the deep racial brokenness at the heart of American culture and on what it can do to repair that brokenness. This book makes a compelling historical and theological case for the church's obligation to provide reparations for the oppression of African Americans. Duke Kwon and Gregory Thompson articulate the church's responsibility for its promotion and preservation of white supremacy throughout history, investigate the Bible's call to repair our racial brokenness, and offer a vision for the work of reparation at the local level. They lead readers toward a moral imagination that views reparations as a long-overdue and necessary step in our collective journey toward healing and wholeness. Christians are awakening to the legacy of racism in America like never before. Reparations explores the church's responsibility for the deep racial brokenness at the heart of American culture, investigates the Bible's call to repair it, and offers a vision for the work of reparation at the local level. The authors lead readers toward a moral imagination that views reparations as a long-overdue and necessary step in our collective journey toward healing and wholeness. This book won a Christianity Today 2022 Book Award (Politics & Public Life) and an Outreach 2022 Resource of the Year Award (Social Issues and Justice). It was also a Foreword INDIES 2021 Finalist for Religion. "Kwon and Thompson's eloquent reasoning will help Christians broaden their understanding of the contemporary conversation over reparations."--Publishers WeeklyTable of ContentsContentsIntroduction: Generations without Recompense 1. The Call to See2. Seeing the Reality of White Supremacy3. Seeing the Effect of White Supremacy4. The Call to Own5. Owning the Ethic of Restitution6. Owning the Ethic of Restoration7. The Call to RepairEpilogueIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisResearch tells us that when most people suffer from a mental health crisis, the first person they turn to for help is not a physician, a psychiatrist, or a social worker, but a pastor, a priest, or a minister. In other words, a leader in their church. Unfortunately, many church leaders are not trained to recognize mental illness and don’t know when to refer someone to a mental health professional. The consequence—unintended yet tragic—is continued and unnecessary suffering.Madness and Grace is a comprehensive guide for church ministry to alleviate this situation. Written by Dr. Matthew Stanford, the book is carefully constructed to help build competency in detecting a wide spectrum of mental disorders, such as knowing when a person is contemplating suicide based on telltale patterns of speech. It also explodes common discriminatory myths that stigmatize people with mental illness, such as the myth that they are more prone to violence than others. Dr. Stanford has treated clients throughout his career who were afflicted with all manner of mental disorders. In Madness and Grace, he takes the full extent of his experience and makes it accessible and actionable for the lay reader. He begins by explaining what constitutes a mental illness and how these disorders are classified according to science. He next teaches how to notice the presence of a mental illness by listening carefully to phraseology, observing behavior, and asking discerning questions. He goes on to discuss methods of treatment, common religious concerns about mental health, and ways church communities can support people on the road to recovery. As a Christian, Dr. Stanford wants his fellow believers to know that acknowledging and seeking help for a mental illness is not a sign of weak faith. That’s why, in addition to sharing his medical expertise with church leaders, he commends pertinent biblical passages that underscore God’s concern for our mental wellbeing. These passages provide strength and comfort as complements to clinically-derived treatment and are essential to Dr. Stanford’s approach. “When working with those in severe psychological distress,” he writes, “compassion and grace are always the first line of pastoral care.”Trade Review“This book is recommended for all who are involved in providing pastoral care. Those already familiar with issues of behavioral health will still find information to glean. Those without previous exposure or education in behavioral health will gain a treasure-trove of knowledge. Finally, all readers will further appreciate their role in being part of the care network for those suffering at any point in the mental health spectrum.”—Sharing the Practice "Practical and balanced, Madness Grace is one that should be of considerable value to anyone involved in ministry or pastoral care who's looking for some guidance on how to respond to the issue of mental health."—Sight Magazine “In Madness and Grace, Dr. Stanford brings together the richness of his academic career and his commitment to the Christian faith to give us a thorough presentation of the mental health issues encountered by women and men in church ministries. With clarity and compassion, he guides us in how to respond to those who suffer with mental illness, as well as their families. This book should be a ‘must read’ for women and men preparing for ministry.” —Nancy C. Kehoe, RSCJ, PhD, author of Wrestling with Our Inner Angels: Faith, Mental Illness and the Journey to Wholeness"Upon finishing Dr. Stanford's outstanding work, Madness and Grace, one of the first words that came to mind was 'FINALLY!' For years, like many of my clergy friends, I have sought a comprehensive and thorough resource to deal with those who walk in my door seeking help, release, and support for various forms of behavioral, emotional, and mental illness. Dr. Stanford's book provides the end to that search. He shows faith leaders how they can, in fact, be the open arms of God, by revealing how faith communities can work with trained professionals in a way that puts flesh on the welcoming words, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’ Within these pages, the reader will gain the knowledge and know-how to provide a framework of care and treatment for the one in five who suffer with some form of mental illness.” —The Reverend Dr. Russell Jones Levenson, Jr., MStJ., Rector, Saint Martin's Episcopal Church, and Sub-Prelate, the Priory of the USA of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem“Mental illness continues to escalate in North America at alarming rates. For pastors and other Christ-followers who want to help mentally ill family, friends, and neighbors—and ‘to do no harm’— allow me to commend this book by my friend Dr. Matthew S. Stanford. Madness and Grace is a rich resource for clergy and congregations who wish to serve the mentally ill looking to the Church for help and hope. One’s training for ministry to the mentally ill may not end here, but I do not know of a better place to begin. I am grateful for and have benefited from this timely work and firmly believe that it will do much good for many.” —Todd D. Still, PhD, The Charles J. and Eleanor McLerran DeLancey Dean The William M. Hinson Professor of Christian Scriptures, George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University“When it comes to mental illness in America, too many people fail to get the help they need too much of the time. In Madness and Grace, Dr. Matthew Stanford notes how this is a divine opportunity for the church. There’s a problem, however, in that clergy lack the training to help with mental illness. When do I refer someone? How can I tell if this person is mentally ill? What should I do if someone seems suicidal? These are the kinds of questions pastors and others in local churches ask. In this fine book, Dr. Stanford addresses these issues and teaches church leadership how to work with professionals to care for those with mental health issues. With biblical content, real-life examples, and accessible resources, Dr. Stanford offers the church a vital contribution. We can do more; Madness and Grace shows a way forward.” —Ed Stetzer, professor and dean, Wheaton College“As mental health finally gains in people’s awareness as a serious area of concern, here is a book that every Christian leader across the country ought to have close at hand. With a combination of clinical expertise, Christian mercy, and clear prose, Dr. Matthew Stanford walks us through the various ways that mental illness can afflict the people in our spiritual care. Not only does he present the nature of the most common disorders, we also learn to notice the red flag behaviors and indicative speech patterns that tell us when to refer to a mental health professional. Madness and Grace is a wise and compassionate resource that can help bring healing to countless numbers of people within the church. I highly recommend it to you!” —Dr. Tim Clinton, president of the American Association of Christian Counselors

Read more less

Book SynopsisCan we know anything about God apart from the Bible? Many Protestant Christians are suspicious of natural theology, which claims that we can learn about God through revelation outside the Bible. How can we know anything about God apart from Scripture? In Nature's Case for God, distinguished theologian John Frame argues that Christians are not forbidden from seeking to learn about God from his creation. In fact, the Bible itself shows this to be possible. In nine short and lucid chapters that include questions for discussion, Frame shows us what we can learn about God and how we relate to him from the world outside the Bible. If the heavens really do declare the glory of God, as the psalmist claims, it makes a huge difference for how we understand God and how we introduce him to those who don't yet know Christ.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe foundation of discipleship is sound, scriptural doctrine. The value of sound doctrine is often misunderstood by the modern church. While it can be dry and dull, when it flows from the story of Scripture, it can be full of life and love. This kind of doctrine, steeped in Scripture, is critical for disciple-making. And it's often overlooked by modern pastors. In Hearers and Doers, Kevin Vanhoozer makes the case that pastors, as pastor-theologians, ought to interpret Scripture theologically to articulate doctrine and help cultivate disciples. scriptural doctrine is vital to the life of the church, and local pastor-theologians should be the ones delivering it to their communities. With arresting prose and striking metaphors, Vanhoozer addresses the most pressing problems in the modern church with one answer: teach sound, scriptural doctrine to make disciples.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA field guide for teaching homiletics. There is a difference between knowing how to preach and knowing how to communicate that knowledge to others. Drawing from the wells of pedagogy and theology, Training Preachers shows teachers of homiletics how to educate preachers to skillfully and effectively present God's word to their congregations. Training Preachers presents the classroom-tested insights of several seasoned homiletics professors whose goal is to share their knowledge with preaching instructors ranging from novices to veterans. Expertly edited by Scott M. Gibson, this is a textbook on teaching preaching that is informed by Christian theology as well as cutting-edge pedagogical practices. The book enables those who teach preaching to holistically prepare to teach this subject to groups, conference gatherings, and classes in Bible colleges and seminaries.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis volume is a collection of some of the best of the hundreds of Preaching Points that the Haddon W. Robinson Center for Preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary has produced. Preaching Points is a weekly podcast on iTunes U that features conversations on preaching by Haddon Robinson, Jeffrey Arthurs, Matthew Kim, and Patricia Batten—all members of the preaching faculty of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, South Hamilton campus. This book offers diverse topics based upon on how they relate to preaching—the preacher's spiritual life, the way to preach, the way to live life as preachers, their role as a preacher, considerations for listeners, and so forth.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat can the Church learn from the business world? You're a leader of a ministry, nonprofit, or church. You trained to be a faithful counselor, preacher, interpreter of God's Word—so why do you find yourself spending so much energy on administration tasks that threaten to drain your time, energy, and joy? Look to this book for the coaching you needed, yesterday. Written from years of ministry and business experience, Business for Ministry is built on a solid foundation of business principles but—unlike many business books—in a straightforward style that anyone can grasp. You'll learn how to: Communicate vision and strategize with a team Steward resources well (yes, including budgeting) Prioritize goals, wisely make decisions, and evaluate outcomes based on vision and data Leverage the existing talents of men and women at your church, many of whom don't fit in "traditional" ministry roles This field guide to building a holistic, sustainable system for your church will both help you address the business needs of your church and free your leaders to serve, fully and joyfully.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less