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Book SynopsisThis book defends the fundamental place of the marital family in modern liberal societies. While applauding modern sexual freedoms, John Witte, Jr also defends the traditional Western teaching that the marital family is an essential cradle of conscience, chrysalis of care, and cornerstone of ordered liberty. He thus urges churches, states, and other social institutions to protect and promote the marital family. He encourages reticent churches to embrace the rights of women and children, as Christians have long taught, and encourages modern states to promote responsible sexual freedom and family relations, as liberals have long said. He counsels modern churches and states to share in family law governance, and to resist recent efforts to privatize, abolish, or radically expand the marital family sphere. Witte also invites fellow citizens to end their bitter battles over same-sex marriage and tend to the vast family field that urgently needs concerted attention and action.Trade Review'It is hard to imagine a better researched, better balanced, more clearly argued - but also more charitable - defense of what John Witte, Jr calls the traditional 'marital family'. Witte a legal scholar of unique historical insight, here spells out clearly why a culture of 'stable monogamous marriages' harmonizes contractual, spiritual, natural, social, communicative, and economic realities - while offering special protection for women, children, and the poor of whatever gender, race, or class. It is a compelling book of landmark dimensions.' Mark A. Noll, McAnaney Professor of History Emeritus, University of Notre Dame'The context of this engrossing, learned and far-ranging text is the way much of traditional family law has been elbowed aside in favor of new cultural and constitutional norms of sexual freedom, privacy and autonomy. For his encyclopedic knowledge and incisiveness, John Witte, Jr has no equal, and this is a fair-minded and wise attempt at the re-integration of state and faith-based institutions. I commend it unreservedly.' Iain R. Torrance, President Emeritus of Princeton Theological Seminary'Over many years, John Witte, Jr has made a profound contribution to global scholarship and debate on law and religion. He continues to do so, with great energy and insight, in this superb book. Written in the highest academic traditions of argument and counter-argument, this book justly deserves to become an enduring stimulus for debate on the importance of the marital family in human life.' Norman Doe, Cardiff University'Vintage Witte! Drawing on his deep wells of scholarship, and writing with characteristic clarity and charity, he offers church, state, and society a reasoned account and constructive model of the marital family as a continuing private and public good, worthy of voluntary commitment and legal support.' William Storrar, Center of Theological Inquiry in Princeton, New Jersey'I am convinced that John Witte, Jr's circumspect research, careful evaluations and well-balanced arguments will not only provoke lively and fruitful discussions, but will also encourage the support and development of good and joy-generating practices in religious and secular communities.' Michael Welker, University of Heidelberg'Church, State, and Family: Reconciling Traditional Teachings and Modern Liberties is an extraordinary work of meticulous scholarship and a part of the Cambridge Studies in Law and Christianity. While an exceptional and unreservedly recommended addition to seminary, college and university library Contemporary Christian Doctrinal Issues collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for students, academia, clergy, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject.' Jack Mason, Midwest Book Review'… attempts the impossible task of providing a valuable and nuanced perspective on the relationship between religious and secular law governing family in the United States and other common law counties … is a satisfying compromise and a worthy read.' Michael J. Broyde, Journal of Law and Religion'… remarkable rereading and prodigious reconstruction …' Mark D. Jordan, Journal of Law and Religion'John Witte offers a masterful overview of the history of religious and political thought about marriage in the West … Church, State, and Family offers a robust defense of (mostly) traditional ideas about marriage and family, grounded equally in theological doctrine, moral and political theory, and contemporary empirical research.' Brian H. Bix, Journal of Law and Religion'… impressively wide-ranging and admirably countercultural … he has in this book offered us a highly informative, thoroughly well-documented, and penetratingly searching analysis of an inescapably controversial case of contemporary state action.' Jonathan Chaplin, Journal of Law and Religion'Church, State, and Family provides an engaging argument for the importance of family to religion and to civil society … The book as a whole is an intellectual tour de force … will be an enduring book …' Frank S. Ravitch, Journal of Church and StateTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. The first integrative Christian theories of family life: John Chrysostom and Augustine of Hippo; 2. Marriage as an office of nature and a sacrament of the church: Thomas Aquinas and Francisco Vitoria; 3. The marital family as social estate and covenant community: Martin Luther and John Calvin; 4. The domestic market: the family as matrix of modern economics; 5. The nature of family in seventeenth-century Christian thought: Hugo Grotius and John Selde; 6. The surprising liberal defense of the traditional marital family by enlightenment liberals; 7. The multidimensional family sphere: reconstructing traditional family teachings for modern liberal societies; 8. Why suffer the children? Overcoming the modern church's opposition to children's rights; 9. Why same-sex marriage should not lead to polygamy; 10. By the power vested in whom? What place for faith-based family laws in a liberal democracy?; 11. The dangers of private ordering; Concluding reflections.

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Book SynopsisWin the War for Your Own IntegrityAfter Phil Robertson quoted Scripture in an interview with a national magazine, his hit show, Duck Dynasty, put him on “indefinite hiatus.” Phil immediately knew what had happened: he had become a target of cancel culture.Since that time, Phil has spoken out against public shaming, strategic campaigns to get Bible-believing employees fired, and other tactics that are wreaking havoc in our society. In a deeply divided country, with so many bent on condemning and silencing others, Phil calls for us to carry out the unifying message of Jesus Christ.In Uncanceled, Phil shares his own experiences with cancel culture as he encourages us to turn to Scripture as we navigate politics, personal conversations, and new cultural norms; helps us see the psychological and political motivations behind silencing conservative voices; reminds us that the goal is not

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Book SynopsisDrawn from extensive study on biblical ethics, Grudem helps readers stop overcomplicating God's will and instead embrace the different ways in which they acquire wisdom for various situations in their lives.

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Book SynopsisIn this concise booklet, Mark Collins demonstrates the essential role Christians play in furthering global missions, offering 9 helpful ways for Christians to participate in making disciples of all nations. Part of the Church Questions series.

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Book SynopsisRuth and Esther are two prophetic pictures of the same gospel. One speaks of a last–minute rescue from death, the other of a long–awaited filling of a terrible emptiness. One ends with a baby; the other concludes with an annual remembrance of an amazing escape. But neither really ends, until they find their fulfilment in Jesus Christ. Part of the Teaching series, this book is designed to help the pastor/preacher, small group leader, or youth worker in preparing and presenting studies.Trade ReviewFor those looking for help in preaching and teaching Ruth and Esther here it is. Ash informs, instructs, and inspires as he helps the reader understand the meaning and implications of these two biblical books. Ruth and Esther are a part of Holy Scripture and deserve to be preached and taught to Christian congregations. If you are looking for help in communicating the messages of these books, Ash provides it in a stellar form. -- William F. Cook (Professor of New Testament Interpretation, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky)The book begins with a brief, but very helpful, chapter on How to Read Old Testament Stories, and proceeds to exemplify this exquisitely as the reader is led through the contrastingly beautiful and disturbing dramas of Ruth and Esther. Christopher’s characteristic mastery of textual detail married with theological clarity and richness is always stimulating, and preachers who want to apply the wealth of God’s grace and comfort from these ancient Christian Scriptures will find much here to help them do so. -- William J. U. Philip (Minister, The Tron Church, Glasgow)

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Book SynopsisIf God rescues us to be his people, then how can our lives demonstrate our love for him? Luke Davis takes us on a journey through some of the big questions in the arena of Christian ethics, highlighting why our ideas matter. He helps us to have a firm grasp of what the issue is, what God’s Word has to say about it, and what practical impact that has on our lives. Trade ReviewLuke Davis has the incredible ability to engage his readers in productive thought and dialogue about issues that matter. -- Mickey Bowdon (Lead Partner, Bowdon Miller Shepherding Group)My 11th–grade Bible teacher knew how to teach apologetics and ethics. His lively, compelling lectures helped open my eyes to the importance of ideas for articulating, and living out, a robust faith. You’re holding his book in your hands. Written for teens and adults alike, this wide–ranging resource will orient you to the waterfront of ethical conundrums—none of which is hypothetical anymore. -- Matt Smethurst (Editor, The Gospel Coalition)Davis offers a road map to well–informed opinions about the critical issues of the day. He invites dialogue around matters that are sometimes muddled and often avoided in the midst of the ethical chaos which marks our current cultural moment. Peppered with anecdotes and soaked in Scripture, the reader learns to think carefully and live wisely. And all along the way, he makes room around the table for those who may not accept the Bible as authoritative. -- Tony Giles (Assistant Pastor, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, Franklin, Tennessee)This work will provide a valuable resource to teacher and student alike as they consider the ethical issues of today. More importantly, this work provides the tools to develop a framework for critical thought on issues yet to be considered. -- Thomas L. Foley (Founder, Christian Educators Outreach; Pastor, Mt. Shiloh Baptist Church, Faber, Virgina)… an invaluable resource for teachers, parents, youth leaders, and anyone involved in educating and discipling young people. The complex issues and conflicting messages of a secular, social media driven, and divisive culture make discernment of truth, beauty, and right from wrong extremely challenging. -- Jim Marsh (Head of School Emeritus, Westminster Christian Academy, St. Louis, Missouri)

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Book SynopsisThis book provides a theologically rich commentary on the challenge of addiction and the long road to recovery. Written by a minister with extensive experience working with people who struggle with addictions, this book helps pastors understand the roots and realities of our universal human struggle with addictions and attachments while showing that together we have great hope for freedom, wholeness, and recovery. Readers will learn how to create and foster a Beatitude Community, the kind of environment Jesus prescribed for his people, to help addicts and those who love them heal from brokenness. Foreword by Bob Ekblad. 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 PrefaceForeword by Bob EkbladIntroductionPart 1: Broken and Blessed1. Broken2. BlessedPart 2: The Beatitude Community3. Surrendered Community: The Poor in Spirit4. Lamenting Community: Those Who Mourn5. Contented Community: The Meek6. Ordered Community: Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness7. Compassionate Community: The Merciful8. Contemplative Community: The Pure in Heart9. Reconciling Community: The Peacemakers10. Co-suffering Community: The PersecutedResourcesIndex

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Book SynopsisPreaching 2022 Book of the Year Haddon Robinson's widely used and influential text, Biblical Preaching, has influenced generations of students and preachers. In The Big Idea Companion for Preaching and Teaching, trusted leading evangelical homileticians, teachers of preaching, and experienced pastors demonstrate that Robinson's "big idea" approach to expository preaching still works in today's diverse cultures and fast-paced world. This accessible resource offers an insider's view on figuring out the big idea of each book of the Bible, helping preachers and teachers check their interpretation of particular biblical books and passages. The contributors offer tips on how to divide each book of the Bible into preaching and teaching passages, guidance on difficult passages and verses, cultural perspectives for faithful application, and suggested resources for interpreting, preaching, and teaching. Pastors, teachers, Bible study leaders, small groups, and college and seminary students and professors will find a wealth of valuable information in this resource.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction Matthew D. KimThe Old TestamentGenesis Casey C. BartonExodus Nathaniel M. WrightLeviticus Bruce W. FongNumbers Sid BuzzellDeuteronomy Patricia M. BattenJoshua Chris RappaziniJudges Gregory K. HollifieldRuth Patricia M. Batten1 Samuel J. Kent Edwards2 Samuel J. Kent Edwards1 Kings Steven D. Mathewson2 Kings Steven D. Mathewson1 Chronicles Gregory K. Hollifield2 Chronicles Paul A. HoffmanEzra Timothy BushfieldNehemiah Matthew D. KimEsther Scott M. GibsonJob Ken ShigematsuPsalms Kenneth LangleyProverbs Steven D. MathewsonEcclesiastes Calvin W. ChoiSong of Songs Pablo A. JiménezIsaiah Andrew C. ThompsonJeremiah Julian R. GotobedLamentations Casey C. BartonEzekiel Andrew C. ThompsonDaniel Scott A. WenigHosea Chris RappaziniJoel Andrew C. ThompsonAmos Joel C. GregoryObadiah Matthew D. KimJonah Matthew D. KimMicah Brandon R. CashNahum France B. Brown Jr.Habakkuk Heather Joy ZimmermanZephaniah France B. Brown Jr.Haggai Kenneth LangleyZechariah Gregory K. HollifieldMalachi Timothy BushfieldThe New TestamentMatthew Scott A. WenigMark Patricia M. BattenLuke Julian R. GotobedJohn Mary S. HulstActs Brandon R. CashRomans Calvin W. Choi1 Corinthians Joel C. Gregory2 Corinthians Casey C. BartonGalatians Paul A. HoffmanEphesians Sid BuzzellPhilippians Scott M. GibsonColossians France B. Brown Jr.1 Thessalonians Heather Joy Zimmerman2 Thessalonians Heather Joy Zimmerman1 Timothy Chris Rappazini2 Timothy Chris RappaziniTitus Scott M. GibsonPhilemon Paul A. HoffmanHebrews Pablo A. JiménezJames Joel C. Gregory1 Peter Alison Gerber2 Peter Gregory K. Hollifield1 John Joel C. Gregory2 John David A. Currie3 John David A. CurrieJude Kenneth LangleyRevelation David L. MathewsonConclusion Scott M. GibsonIndex

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Book Synopsis"Socialists Don't Sleep is one of those timely books that just points out the roots of what's gone wrong in America, how we can get our country back on track to what founders envisioned and the Judeo-Christian community that holds the key to America's long-term successes." — Gov. Mike Huckabee, New York Times Bestselling author & Host of HuckabeeSocialists Don't Sleep: Christians Must Rise or America Will Fall is about all the sneaky ways the secular left has pressed Socialism into American politics and life – AND WHY CHRISTIANS ARE THE ONLY ONES WHO CAN STOP IT!Socialists Don't Sleep tells how America has gone from a country of rights coming from God – NOT government – to a country that embraces Socialism – where the US government is now expected to pretty much provide from cradle to the grave. Cheryl K. Chumley, an award-winning journalist and contributing editor to The Washington Times, explains how to return the country to its glory days of God-given, and why Christians, more than any other group, are best equipped to lead the way.“Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — when it comes to socialism in America, these two aren't the problem. Per se. They're simply symptoms of the real problems that usher in Socialism: a dysfunctional entitlement-minded society, a propaganda-pushing school system, a decayed culture, a sieve-like border. As Cheryl Chumley points out in Socialists Don't Sleep, we can't root out socialism unless we first address the real problems.” — Michael Savage, New York Times Bestselling author & host of The Savage NationTrade ReviewPraise for Socialists Don't Sleep: Christians Must Rise or America Will Fall by Cheryl K. Chumley "Socialists Don't Sleep is one of those timely books that just points out the roots of what's gone wrong in America, how we can get our country back on track to what founders envisioned and the Judeo-Christian community that holds the key to America's long-term successes." — Gov. Mike Huckabee, New York Times Bestselling author & Host of Huckabee “Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — when it comes to socialism in America, these two aren't the problem. Per se. They're simply symptoms of the real problems that usher in Socialism: a dysfunctional entitlement-minded society, a propaganda-pushing school system, a decayed culture, a sieve-like border. As Cheryl Chumley points out in Socialists Don't Sleep, we can't root out socialism unless we first address the real problems.” — Michael Savage, New York Times Bestselling author & host of The Savage Nation “What is it about the founding principles of America that the secular progressive left would make better? The answer is: Nothing. In her new book, Cheryl Chumley reminds us of those principles and calls on those who still believe in them to engage the failed policies and ideology of Socialism and atheism and to fight back.” — Cal Thomas, Nationally-syndicated Conservative Columnist “If you think socialism will inevitably lose at the polls, think again! As Cheryl shows in Socialists Don't Sleep, the far Left — in both political parties — has been eroding our freedoms for decades. The long-term solution must come from the Judeo-Christian community. If the churches don't rise, America is sunk.” — Sam & Kevin Sorbo, Writer-Producer-Director Team for Let There Be Light “An important book that shows just how close our country is from losing its freedoms — and why the younger generations need to learn truthful history about capitalism, freedom, and socialism.” — Will Witt, PragerU Personality “Socialists Don’t Sleep exposes the flawed thinking of the socialist left.” — Phil Robertson, New York Times Bestselling author & Star of Duck Dynasty "Cheryl Chumley’s book, Socialists Don’t Sleep: Why Christians Must Rise, Or America Will Fall, is a masterpiece. Unlike most politicians and academicians, she keenly understands the true greatness of America, and unequivocally sounds an alarm of caution if our nation continues down its current path of blindness toward our founding principles and values. There are few books that I believe should be read by everyone, this is one of them. The message Chumley lays forth is clear, profound, disturbing, and hopeful. It’s time for America to have a reality check, a deep, soul-searching reality check. This is a great place to start." — Representative Jody B. Hice, R-GATable of ContentsSocialists Don't Sleep: Christians Must Rise or America Will Fall Table of Contents 1. Why America is GREAT in the first place America was founded on a principle that rights come from God, not government. And this, simply put, is what makes us great. Atheists, secularists, humanists, progressives, the far left, socialists and the like would have it believed otherwise; they scoff at any notion that framers and founders would want any mention or influence of God at all in the public arena. But fact is: Take God out of America’s society, and first the culture, then the politics, fall. The concept that “we are endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights” isn’t just a guarantee – it’s a responsibility. If we want America the free to stay free, then we have to make sure government doesn’t grow so big as to supplant God and squelch our individual rights. This chapter looks at some of the key principles that make America great in the first place, including the bedrock idea of individual rights coming from God, not government, and makes the case that without this core idea, without preserving the principle of the God-given, not the government granted, the country will crumble from within – America the Free, America the Great, will exist no more. 2. What’s Happened to the Democrats? Once upon a time, Democrats used to stand for the little guy, the oppressed woman, the blue-collar worker, the union member – or did they? This chapter looks at the morphing of the Democrat Party through the years, from one of an “ask not what you your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” kind of attitude, to one of becoming the protector of the illegal immigrant, the voice of the abortion-on-demand crowd. This chapter also separates the truths from fiction, and shows how some misconceptions over the years about what this party has actually represented have hardened into rather ridiculous beliefs. (Democrats, for instance, have been able to lay claim to being the party of minorities despite the fact that in 1964, a greater percentage of Republicans than Democrats voted for the Civil Rights Act – despite the fact the Democrat Sen. Robert Byrd, a former Ku Klux Klan leader, filibustered the measure for more than 14 hours). Regardless, the lurch left of the Democrat Party in the most recent years has not only divided the party and set the stage for in-fighting for years to come, but also ushered in a brash brand of “democrat” politics that is nothing like the Democrats of John F. Kennedy days. The overall effect to the nation has been dramatic as its portrayed conservativism as radicals, shifted moderate Democrats to the side and seemingly embraced the most socialistic of ideas as practical. As the country moves ever farther left, another question looms: Can today’s Democrats simultaneously serve both party and God? This is a grave matter of importance that goes to the ability of our nation to keep its republic – to preserve this form of government that demands a virtuous and principled people. This chapter challenges the reader to take a hard look at the party, its platforms and politics, its rhetoric and leanings – and decide. 3. Republicans Have Some Explaining to Do, Too It’s not as if an Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sprung into socialist being in the House overnight. Or, a self-declared Democratic-Socialist like Sen. Bernie Sanders, for that matter. For decades, a committed, well-funded, organized and determined left has been pressing forward an agenda that, as President Donald Trump might say, puts America second, not first. But while Democrats have walked rather rapidly in recent years down the path toward socialism, Republicans haven’t exactly been keepers of the freedom flame. Plenty of Republicans protecting their big business interests and payrolls and profits have gone silent when it comes to clamping the borders, or arresting illegals at work, or fining companies that hire illegals. Too many Republicans have turned blind eyes and deaf ears on the encroaching Big Government designs, and put personal finances or private interests before those of the people. One way to look at it: If Democrats have become the party of the give-away to illegals and minorities, Republicans have become the party of the give-away to big business – and either way, it’s the individual whose rights are being trounced. It’s the notion of God-given rights that’s being crushed, in favor of government-granted. Republicans have also bent backwards, post-September 11, especially, to make sure police and law enforcement have all the tools they need to keep communities safe – even when those tools come with questionable civil rights and privacy dings, and give negligible results. This chapter looks at the damage Republicans have done to America’s sovereignty in recent years, all in the name of “for the people,” “for the children,” or “for the safety and security of the nation,” and provides the reader with an understanding of how the socialist mindset can travel just as quickly on wings of fear, which Republicans often float, as on wings of entitlement. 4. Education or Propaganda? Selling Socialism Through the Schools For the longest of time, America’s public school systems were routinely tops in world rankings. Now? The most recent Pew Research Center findings from 2018 show that the United States places 38th of 70 countries when it comes to math scores, and 24th on science. Curiously, this fall has taken place most dramatically in the last few years. In 1990, for example, America was ranked in this same Pew poll as sixth in the world for education and for health care. What’s going on? Schools have forgotten their primary jobs: to educate. Today’s schools are now more interested in making sure diversity and tolerance are their priorities for teaching; math, English, science, social studies, the second-tier concerns. America’s public schools have become less places of reading, writing and arithmetic and more places for filling the minds of youth with propaganda, where the likes of Founding Fathers are presented as racist white men who, by logical extension, created for America some racist governing documents – and therefore, that means America is inherently racist. The propaganda persists at the places of higher learning. America’s colleges and universities, many of which were founded on the principles of advancing Christian evangelism and Judeo-Christian virtues – think Harvard, Yale, Princeton – have become breeding grounds for leftist professors and administrators, who bring forth the next generation of leaders and movers and shakers in this country. So what to do? How to deal? Radical solutions are necessary. Parents who can afford to take their children from public schools and teach them at home, or place them in private schools, ought to do so. Immediately. Public schools receive funding in part based on head-counts of students; one surefire way of grabbing administrators’ attention to talk about necessary reforms is to hit them in the pocketbooks. Another way to push the schools in the direction of teaching actual core course, not just social justice? Have more Christian conservatives and constitutionally-minded, limited government types run for School Board. Their voices will help balance the board discussions. These are but a couple of solutions this chapter explores. 5. Jesus the Socialist, Jesus the Capitalist Progressives in the 1920s insisted their giveaways of government entitlements were rooted clearly in Christian teachings, backed by biblical verses. Today’s Christian conservative camp would say otherwise – that the Bible unequivocally states that only those who work should eat, and that government handouts are hardly the way of Jesus. So who’s right? Who’s wrong? Fact is, there has been a movement of late in certain church circles and in some spiritual denominations to cite Bible verses as justification for opening America’s borders wide; for sheltering illegals from the deportation storm; for providing free – that is, tax payer funded – healthcare to all, including those in-country illegally; for providing all with free college, low-cost housing, free prescription pills, and more. And while some in this church-based movement might very well believe America’s government must do all it can to help the less fortunate, even if it means losing borders, or prosperity, or security, fact is, many in these denominations are false teachers of biblical principles of convenience. They’re leaders of LGBTQ rights’ movements, for instance, or gay pastors pushing same-sex marriage onto the next generation of believers, or simply open border zealots and social justice warriors masquerading as clerical servants of the faith. Whatever their calling, it’s not so much one for Jesus as for personal ambition or political gain. This chapter looks at some of these church-tied organizations and at the backgrounds of the leaders and members, to show how they’re pressing into society a socialist vision that tears down traditional norms and subs in radicalized notions of identity, family and even faith. The message is simple: Before joining these ranks, at least know their true intents. At root, the question becomes: Is the Bible a living breathing document – or not? This chapter challenges the reader to decide. The larger point, as it pertains to American politics, is this: If the Bible is living and breathing, open to interpretation, subject to whims of mankind, then a nation that’s built on Judeo-Christian principles is certainly changeable. If the Bible can mean what we want, certainly the Constitution, the framers’ limited government views, the founders’ free market ideals, can just as easily be shifted and tossed. 6. Children and Guns and Chaos in the Streets Twenty-five million children are being raised in homes without fathers, according to statistics from the Center for Children and Families. Meanwhile, other stats show 90 percent of welfare recipients are single mothers; 70 percent of gang members, teen suicides, teen pregnancies and teen drug and alcohol abusers come from home without fathers. And statistically speaking, children raised in single-parent households are more likely to live in poverty, drop out of school, commit crimes, and land in jail. No wonder our nation’s youth are fighting in the streets. No wonder the media world is filled with stories of mass shootings and horrific murders in our schools. No wonder we have Black Lives Matter and antifa violence, rebelling against everything from police to Confederate monuments with violence. These are the natural consequences of removing God from all-things-public – from taking a secular path and walking a godless road. Not only individuals and families, but communities and societies – culture and politics – become poisoned in an atmosphere that doesn’t teach rights versus wrongs, and therefore disdains morals and absolutes, and ultimately, loses all sense of proper humanity. But it’s into this chaos that big government and socialism step. After all, if there’s chaos in the streets, who better to come in to control it, than government? And when government fails to control – as it will, because problems of drugs and crime and murder cannot be solved by regulation and law, but only by changes of heart, only by God – well then, the call from the political world is to bring in even bigger government, even more rules and regulations and laws. Even more socialist-style solutions, like higher taxes and more entitlement spending and larger social justice outreach using larger pots of tax dollars. This is futile fighting. The solution is not more government, bigger government, socialist “spread the wealth” government. The solution is the private sector and the Christian heart. Joe Gibbs, former Washington Redskins football coach, had a heart for troubled youth and a spirit of Christian love – so he started Youth for Tomorrow, a non-profit that takes in children from broken homes and teaches them the godly principles they need to lead lives of fulfilment and purpose. That’s just one guy, one organization. Think of the lives that can be redirected if more money was directed to groups like Big Brothers and Big Sisters and YMCAs and any number of other organizations with similar life-changing missions. Now add the church missions to the mix. With direction, organization and motivation, much can be done through the private sector, through the church sector, to help America’s struggling youth – and it can all be accomplished without expanding government and adding to the socialist entitlement mindsets that only serve to destroy our great nation. 7. Pressures Within, Pressures Without: Global Go-Gooders Who Actually Do No Good Americans have been bombarded with pleas from the global communities, particularly from the United Nations, to contribute more to overseas’ aid to help eradicate poverty, feed children, educate women and girls, bring about world peace. But there’s a warning in the Bible that aptly applies – the one where Jesus tells his disciples, “Children, be not deceived – I send you out as sheep among wolves.” And before committing any more dollars to the global parties, Americans should be aware of what these non-governmental groups, led in large part by the United Nations, actually advance both around the world, and in the United States. It’s not as it seems. These groups speak a good game; they promote their missions as charitable and focused on the regions with most need. But there are stark differences between programs run by the United Nations and, say, the International Committee of the Red Cross. This chapter looks at the politics behind many of these supposed charitably minded global nonprofits, many operating under the umbrella of the United Nations, and reveals to the reader where the money actually goes, how contributions from the U.S. taxpayer are actually spent -- and how most of these groups actually further big government, corruption, socialist principles and reliance on hand-outs rather than foster independence, sovereignty and self-rule. What’s worse, many of the socialist principles furthered by the global groups actually wind their way into America’s political world, beginning at the federal level and seeping, eventually, into local governments. (Think the U.N.’s sustainable development program, for example, which uses U.S. tax dollars to control human development around the world – and in America’s own back yards). This is top-down socialism being pressed into America’s supposed sovereign system of governance. There are much better ways to help eradicate poverty around the world that won’t involve socialist – even anti-American – U.N. and global-minded non-governmental groups’ missions. This chapter exposes the socialist-advancing dangers of seeing the United Nations and other NGOs in positive lights, as well as provides the charitable minded in America numerous other ways of helping the needy around the world via the private sector, the business world and the churches. America, land of the free, land of the limited government, should not be playing into that socialist lie that only government can provide for the needy. Christians, in particular, know better – and Christians, in particular, are well-positioned to show how to provide for the less fortunate without turning to government. 8. The Politics of Pagans, The Socialism of Secularists One of socialism’s favored ways of advancing a spread the wealth vision is via environmental regulation, the kind pushed by the United Nations (sustainable development), the kind favored by hard-left Green groups in America (Smart Growth), the kind that basically controls any human activity at all on lands, in oceans and other bodies of water, and in the air space above the lands and bodies of water. Not all environmentalism is socialist; not all environmentalists are socialists. But the overall environmental mindset that’s been pushed these past few years has been one of elevating nature to the level of God – and making it seem as if those who oppose the radical agenda are evil capitalists, bent of razing the earth for personal, greedy profit. Big Green is just one indirect way socialism has stolen into the policies of America’s government, though. Just look at some of the programs and systems we have in place that are largely unquestioned, largely embraced and accepted – yet just as largely socialist. The Department of Education? That’s simply the government’s way of taking over the education of youth. The whole Social Security system – the whole Medicare for All conversation that creeps into political talk now and again? Socialist; nothing in the Constitution, nothing in the Bible, nothing in America’s limited government system allows for any sort of rightful use of tax dollars to pay for retirement, or health care, or prescription pills for citizens. There are more, many more. This is what you get when secularists dominate government – a government that treads where it really doesn’t belong and expands where it really shouldn’t be. But let’s start by calling out these programs for what they are – socialist. Then, we can decide whether they’re worthy of keeping, of reforming or of outright abolishing. Putting the government in charge of the education of our youth, for example, has proven alarmingly disastrous; Christians and conservatives could make a solid case for getting rid of the Education Department entirely, and reeling in the teachers’ unions that advance so much of the propaganda training of our youth. But perhaps Social Security could be salvaged, at least until a phase-out plan that doesn’t unfairly punish the contributors is devised – or, perhaps it could be kept untouched, as a tradeoff for doing away with some of the government’s entitlement spending. The point of this chapter is mostly to raise awareness of how Americans have come to accept programs that are inherently socialists – which only opens the door to creating the mindset of the next generation that socialism, in some forms, is not so bad after all. But Christians, instead of advocating for more government, more socialist programs, more entitlement spending, ought to take a stand and show how churches, through tithes, and local charities, through heartfelt donations, can provide many of the socialist services currently offered by our own government. 9. The War on Words – A Very Socialist Battle Control the press, control the messaging, and you control the people. That’s been a guiding principle of tyrants since the dawn of time. Mainstream media bias in favor of Democrats and social media censorship of conservative and Christian views – such as has been happening in recent years -- aren’t just annoying offenses. They’re targeted attacks by the left aimed at shuttering and stifling any views that counter and reject Big Government and oppose socialist principles. This chapter takes a look at the polls and surveys that show the decided left-leaning slants of those in the press – the decided anti-Christian slants, as well -- and then reveals how these leftist viewpoints seep into coverage, regardless of claims to the contrary. This chapter also takes a particularly hard look at social media, and chronicles the rising censorship of specifically conservative and Christian viewpoints. Lila Rose, for example, was recently booted from one social media site because her pro-life views on abortion were deemed hate speech. The Christian Post, for another example, which is a newspaper with a religious worldview, was just blacklisted by Google for its supposed hateful reporting, according to one tech world whistleblower. It was bad enough when conservatives and Christians just had to fight, say, The New York Times for fair and balanced coverage. But now, it’s social media and search engines – a whole online force. So how can conservatives and Christians fight this censorship? First off, by recognizing the extent of the bias and realizing that while some journalists aren’t purposely attacking the ideological right, or purposely using the media to tear down traditional and Christian views, there are enough high-placed, high-ranking editors and executives with influence who are purposely doing just that – and they’re able to sway the coverage on a wide scale. And second off? Conservatives and Christians must use their voices and counter leftist media punch with media punches of their own. Writing letters to the editors; visiting online news sites and adding comments to the comments’ sections; calling broadcast stations and supporting or opposing the editorial direction and content of news stories; starting blogs and even newspapers or newsletters that counter the liberal/socialist lines and offer a conservative, even Christian, view – these are all viable ways of making it clear: the Christian conservative voice will not be stifled. If the left-leaning, largely secular media is allowed to control the messaging and dominate the online social media world, the only voices allowed to exist will be those that advance the far left, socialist, Big Government ideas. 10. Artificial intelligence, and How Emerging Technology Feeds the Socialist Beast According to various polls and surveys, most scientists are not only liberals in their politics, but secular in their beliefs. Yet these are the same people who are leading the technological charge in America, across the world? No wonder, then, social media’s artificial intelligence systems lean left and label conservative and Christian views as hateful or discriminatory; the programs, the models, the software are all designed by those with either far leftist or globalist views. But that’s only part of what makes today’s emerging technologies a real threat to freedom-loving Americans in general, and Christian, conservative voices in particular. Some of A.I.’s applications outright flip the Constitution on its head by tossing presumption of innocence standards to the side and treating innocent Americans as if they’re guilty; by giving police the technological power to arrest “criminals” who’ve not yet committed crimes; by allowing government to place surveillance and identification technology in all places public; and more. As if that’s not bad enough, there’s this, from Feng Xiang, a professor of law at Tsinghua University: “More than anything else, the inevitability of mass unemployment [from emerging technologies] and the demand for universal welfare will drive the idea of socializing or nationalizing A.I.,” he said, back in May of 2018. His idea? To use A.I. to reallocate resources – or, as socialists might put it, to spread the wealth. He’s not alone in looking to use A.I. to create social justice on a global scale. Others in this vein of socialist thinking see the need to establish a universal basic income standard for workers who are displaced by technology. The Socialist Party itself sees A.I. as death knell for capitalism. Meanwhile, there’s that whole A.I. movement dedicated to creating its own god – or, at the least, a better breed of humans with godlike technological powers. This is one of the biggest fights Christians and constitutionalists face in the coming years – and it’s going to be the most challenging one to win. In the long-term, Christians need to encourage more of the faithful to enter the fields of science and technology, so that tomorrow’s A.I. experts will be schooled in Bible truths. In the short-term? Christians and conservatives need to first educate themselves on the A.I. threats to faith, individual freedoms and American sovereignty. And second, Christians and conservatives need to stop letting technology take over their own lives – to stop trading the convenience of certain cell phone apps, say, for personal privacies that track geographical movements. With technology, Christians have become just as secular as the world they’re supposed to live in but not of, and if we want to put a stop to runaway technologies that threaten to steal freedoms and bring about a more socialist existence, then it’s the Christian community that has to raise up and raise questions (because the secular world isn’t going to do it). 11. If Malachi Were Here, What Would He Say? In 2016, one Morning Consult poll found that 60 percent of Americans believed America was great and 68 percent said they were proud to be an American. In July 2019, a Gallup poll found that American pride had hit an all-time low – that only 45 percent said they were proud to be American, versus 47 percent in Gallup’s poll of the previous year. And in April 2019, Rasmussen found that Americans, by and large, were feeling better about the future than they had in the previous 12 years of asking that same survey question. The point it: Ask Americans what they feel about America, and the answers will be as different as the polling companies. The only “survey” that really matters is the one from above – the one that rates how a nation and how a nation’s people stand with God. And on that score, maybe it’s arguable: America’s lost its Judeo-Christian way because God has removed His blessings from the country. It’s possible. Surely, this socialism that’s taken root in a nation that was supposed to be dedicated to individual rights first, collectivism second – if at all – hasn’t come by way of chance, or absent God’s knowledge. Or, perhaps, absent God’s influence. Look to Malachi for mulling. Consider these biblical passages: “If you will not lay it to heart to give glory to my name, says the Lord of hosts, then I will send the curse upon you and I will curse your blessings; indeed I have already cursed them.” Or this: “You have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet you say, ‘How have we wearied him?’ By saying ‘Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delights in them.’ Or by asking, ‘Where is the God of justice?’” Isn’t this what just what we do when things don’t go our way – pretend as if our intents were good and that God, in His injustice, is ignoring our plights or imposing an unfair outcome? Perhaps it’s as Malachi suggests – the curse has already come upon our nation. That would certainly explain how we could move from a nation built by Judeo-Christian principles, fast-tracked to great heights of globally ranked exceptionalism, to a country torn by political and cultural fighting, being pulled ever farther from God, ever closer to Big Government. This chapter looks at the cultural decay we embrace, and the political corruption we accept – from abortion to rated-R sexualized entertainment – from the perspective of biblical teachings, and raises the all-important question: Are we now experiencing, with all this loss of freedom and expansion of socialist governance, the removal of God’s blessings on America? It seems a crucial point to consider, given the obvious solution would lie in its answer. As the Bible also teaches: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will hear their land.” What better way for God to heal a country founded on principles of limited government – than to return the government to a system of limited reach and authority? 12. The Answer is Christianity, and ONLY Christianity There’s a temptation in First Amendment-friendly America for some to embrace religious freedom to the point where Christianity is Islam is Hinduism is Wiccan – where one religion is just as good as another, and that praying to the Christian God is the same as praying to any other god. But here in America, the foundation has always been Judeo-Christian beliefs, as illustrated in the Bible. Treating Christianity as if it’s just another religion, on par with any other is the type of thinking that brings about Satanic Temple statues on government properties, or Satanist “prayers’ to open City Council meetings – or, strict Islamic and sharia principles pushed into our culture and politics. America wasn’t built to be a Christian nation, with a state-run church that dictated Christian principles through the government. But America was indeed built from the bottom up by Europeans fleeing their homes for the pursuit of religious freedom – for the pursuit of Christian religious freedom. America was indeed built by framers who may not have worshipped similarly, or at all, but who nonetheless forged a government based on biblical moral truths, including the idea that humans are fallible (born in Original Sin) – not only Muslim beliefs, or Hindu teachings. The 1993 book, “One Nation Under God: Religion in Contemporary American Society,” reports that in 1776, an estimated 98 percent of colonists were Protestants; the other 2 percent claimed Roman Catholicism as their faith. To the extent that religion influenced our framers, it was Christianity, not any other faith, held in the highest regard. Why it matters is simple: When we speak of America’s greatness coming from the notion that individual rights come from God, not government, it’s important to understand we’re not talking about God, in a general and generic any-religion-goes sense, or the god of Muslims, Allah. We’re talking about the God of the Bible. If this is the God who gave us a country of rights coming from God, not government – this is the only God who can keep our moral compass and political world in the proper places. The solution for a country that’s stretched into socialism and lost its concept of God-given rights is to reel back government and return God – the proper God – to the helm. Only Christianity can win this war against socialism in America; only Christians can effectively fight to return the nation to its moral, virtuous, principled society of limited governance and individual freedom. 13. Inspiring Acts of Courage, Both Big and Small This chapter looks at real life examples of people who’ve stood strong for America, for God, for Judeo-Christian principles, for the Constitution and limited government and capitalism – and in so doing, have won. The fight to control America’s moral compass and reel in an ever-expanding and corrupt government has been long and wearying, often futile and overwhelming. And no matter who wins the White House, regardless of which political party takes control of the House and Senate – or of which political party holds the leadership positions in state and local governments – fact is, the fight is far from finished. The sneaky socialist seepage into America’s culture and politics will continue far into the future. So, as motivation for the long haul, this chapter looks at instances where Christians and conservatives and other patriotic Americans with love of the Constitution and limits on government have stood against strong secular, socialist, Big Government forces in recent times – and won. An example? When far-left anti-gun politicians in Washington passed sweeping new restrictions on semi-automatic rifles – despite clear court guidance that called such restrictions unconstitutional – sheriffs in a dozen counties around the state rose up and said: We’re not enforcing that. As Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones explained: “I swore an oath to defend our citizens and their constitutionally protected rights. I do not believe the popular vote overrules that.” Another example? When a Satanic Temple member won the court right to open a Kenai Peninsula Borough meeting in Alaska with a “Hail, Satan” invocation, a dozen of the region’s governing officials walked out, while dozens in the community rallied outside the building, holding signs that said, “reject Satan and his works” and “know Jesus and his love” – showing in the process that court rulings cannot compel hearts to obey. Sometimes, even the smallest of gestures, the tiniest of principled stands, can nevertheless pack big punches. As Ecclesiastes teaches, the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong. This chapter wraps on a positive note, giving readers the sense that yes, America may be in the throes of determining its government of the future, and debating the idea of more socialism versus a return to democratic-republicanism – but that if Christians in particular and patriots in general keep plugging away and fighting effectively, the country can and will see a widespread return to the God-given.

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Book SynopsisA guide to communicating the power and significance of baptism.Although the sacrament of baptism is central to Christian experience, it is usually only discussed in many churches when a baptism happens to be occurring. In Preaching Baptism, priest and noted preacher James Bradley Shumard identifies ways to reinforce baptismal values in the weekly liturgy, from the pulpit in sermons, as well as from other teaching moments in the liturgy. Including chapters on preaching about baptism across the church year, connecting the lectionary to baptism, baptismal vows, and more, this volume offers guidance to clergy in keeping baptismal vocation at the core in every Sunday's sermon.Trade Review"As promised, Shumard focuses on preaching, reviewing the Revised Common Lectionary through the lens of baptism. This valuable resource overflows with opportunities for preaching baptismal themes." – Dr. Fredrica Harris Thompsett, author of We Are Theologians and Living with History"Preaching Baptism is an engaging invitation to live as followers of Christ infused with the sacred waters of baptism. Accessible to clergy and laity alike, Preaching Baptism is perfect for a retreat setting, adult forums, and personal enrichment. Full of practical and creative suggestions on incorporating the importance of baptism into weekly worship, Rev. Shumard illustrates the life-giving relevance of our baptismal vows. His is a timely book with transformative power." – The Rt. Rev. Paul-Gordon Chandler, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Wyoming and Founder of CARAVAN Arts"Shumard challenges us to live and preach baptism beyond those Sundays we perform the sacrament. Prepare to dust off the font and adjust the church bulletin for a more embodied experience of living into our baptismal vows each week. This practical guide is helpful for anyone who desires a fresh, reimagined approach to worship." – The Rev. Canon Dr. Dennis G. Campbell, retired Canon to the Ordinary of the Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas"An extremely well-written and informative book that will hold your attention from the first page. I learned of the deeper meanings of baptism and experienced revelations throughout each chapter. This is an important and fascinating read. As a layperson, I would recommend this book to anyone seeking clarification about the meaning and ritual of baptism, whether you are a casual reader or a member of the clergy." – Jeanne Miller, Congregant"As a parishioner at St. Mark’s during Father Shumard’s time here, I have had a baptismal epiphany. Repeated recitation has let me come to understand that the still valid two millennia old Nicene Creed lets us express what we believe, while the Baptismal Vows have such deep meaning that they are a prescription for Christian living. The Vows are what we commit to actively do with our lives." – Steve Kurtz, CongregantTable of ContentsIntroduction: Why This Book and Why Baptism?Baptism Is a Lifelong JourneyBaptismal Preaching: Themes from the Catechumenate, Confirmation, and the Reaffirmation of the Baptismal Vows Baptismal VowsA Quick Guide for Ordinary Sundays with Baptismal Themes as Found in Readings from the Revised Common LectionarySeasonal Preaching and Preaching for Special OccasionsThe Service of Holy BaptismArchitecture and AccoutrementsPreaching and Teaching MomentsThe History of BaptismConclusionAppendix A: The Question of Open CommmunionAppendix B: Sample Baptismal SermonsBibliographyAcknowledgements

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Book SynopsisA Congolese refugee turned Christian humanitarian shares his inspiring story of survival, faith, and finding your purpose.Emmanuel Ntibonera's quiet life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was shattered when the Great War of Africa plunged his homeland into chaos. Only a boy, Emmanuel's childhood gave way to a daily fight for survival as a refugee. But when miracle-after-miracle pulled his family from the brink of death, Emmanuel devoted his life to God’s work, whatever that may be.Fifteen years after escaping the Congo, Emmanuel decided to leave the safe borders of America and trace his footsteps back to the life he left behind. What he discovered in the Congo—disease, extreme poverty, deficient infrastructure, and, worst of all, a prevalent spirit of hopelessness—changed his life forever, setting him on an ambitious mission. As Emmanuel started collecting gently used footwear to bring hope to his people, his work united thousands across the country.Trade Review"Ntibonera, cofounder of the Christian aid nonprofit Ntibonera Foundation, makes a captivating debut with this heart-wrenching account of living through the Congolese civil wars of the late 1990s... Christians and those interested in international aid will enjoy this harrowing yet hopeful tale." -- Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive and engaging manual aids preachers in keeping the transformative meaning and impact of the biblical text intact through all hermeneutical and homiletical processes. While this approach applies to all sermon structures, the book focuses on the less familiar one-point expository message rather than the more common three-point sermon, or verse-by-verse approach. Drawing upon the strengths of their backgrounds as homiletic and biblical studies professors, the authors help the reader identify which biblical texts fit the one-point expository sermon structure, explain how to develop the sermons, and provide sermon samples that illustrate the approach. The authors explore the features of each major literary genre and how it helps to shape the sermon. With their shared expertise in biblical studies and homiletics, they offer a book brimming with insights and usefulness.

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Book SynopsisIn a day when church planting is back in fashion, here is Paul speaking to a newly planted fellowship. In a day when Christians in the West are finding themselves under growing pressure from the surrounding culture, here is Paul encouraging a church facing strong opposition. This book enables the leader to apply practical theology to specific situations that still affect the church today. This is the latest addition to the Teaching the Bible series.Trade ReviewThe task of moving from the text of Scripture to clear and faithful exposition is challenging. This series of excellent guides aims to help the Bible teacher to observe what is there in the text, and prepare to convey its significance to contemporary hearers. In this way these volumes often do more than the weightier technical commentaries. It is like having the guidance of an experienced coach in the wonderful work of rightly handling the word of truth. -- John Woodhouse (Retired Principal and Lecturer in Doctrine and Old Testament, Moore College, Sydney, Australia)The Teaching series is a great resource for Bible study leaders and pastors, indeed for any Christian who wants to understand their Bible better. -- Mark Dever (Senior Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church and President, 9Marks.org, Washington, DC)The need of the hour is Bible knowledge. When knowledge fails, faith fails, and we are shaped instead by cultural forces alien to God. This teaching series, written by skilled and trustworthy students of God's word, helps us to understand the Bible, believe it and obey it. I commend it to all Bible readers, but especially those whose task it is to teach the inspired word of God. -- Peter Jensen (Retired Archbishop of Sydney, Sydney, Australia)... a five star, must-buy book. From the highly concise introductions to the general themes of the books and the well-crafted choice of sermon series outlines, this handbook to your future sermon series provides preachers with an excellent tool kit to get them started. -- Churchman JournalNorth India desperately needs men and women who will preach and teach the Bible faithfully and PT's Teaching series is of great value in encouraging them to do just that. -- Isaac Shaw (Executive Director, Delhi Bible Institute, New Delhi, India)

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Book SynopsisAffection is often a neglected theme in our generation of Bible believing Christians. It has not always been so. Previous generations thought a great deal about the centrality of the heart in the Christian life and the need to preach to it. This book will prove a valuable resource as we learn about the place of the affections in our walk with Christ and in preaching Him to ourselves and others.Trade ReviewFor some, this little book will be a healthy reminder; for others, it will revolutionize their preaching. -- D. A. Carson (Emeritus Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, Illinois)It has not only convinced me of the importance of preaching to the affections, but has also inspired me to think that I must and can do this better. -- Vaughan Roberts (Rector of St Ebbe's, Oxford and Director of Proclamation Trust)Messrs Moody & Weekes, with plenty of good sense, would encourage us preachers to reach the hearts of our listeners... Are they making a timely point? I think they are. -- Dick Lucas (Formerly Rector of St Helen's Bishopsgate, London)...offers a wise reminder that the truth of a sermon - no matter how logically and accurately it reflects Scripture - denies the power of the Word if there is no intention to affect the heart of the listener. -- Bryan ChapellThis book turns on the lights, helping preachers understand how hearts and lives can be affected by truth. I'm thrilled to see this book, handling such an important subject so well. -- Michael Reeves

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Book SynopsisAre you ever disappointed in your spouse? Do you fight? Do you disagree about money, sex, or in-laws? What if the very struggles you are facing were addressed by thoughtful Christians hundreds of years ago?In Held in Honor, you will find 50 devotional reflections on marriage carefully selected from 2,000 years of church history. Alongside each inspiring historical quote is a brief introduction to the person quoted and an accompanying biblical reflection.You are not alone in your marriage. The Lord has provided encouragement, correction, and hope in his Word. Held in Honor aims to strengthen you by pointing you to the promises of God's Word and by showing you how past generations have applied this life-giving message to their own marriages.Trade Review... This is historical theology at its best. Biblical, practical, wonderfully helpful and really enjoyable. -- Alistair Begg (Senior Pastor, Parkside Church, Chagrin Falls, Ohio)Plummer and Haste's Held in Honor: Wisdom for Your Marriage from Voices of the Past is a collection of writings on marriage from Christian theologians, pastors, and authors. The work is a delight to read on many levels. Those who value church history will appreciate the profound reflections on marriage from some of the greatest Christian minds of the past. Those who seek to understand Scripture's teaching on marriage will be rewarded and those who wish to be challenged to live with greater devotion toward God and his or her spouse will find many practical insights. The authors present a realistic understanding of marriage, highlighting its joys and sorrows, as well as its triumphs and trials. I highly recommend this book. -- Michael L. Bryant (Dean, School of Christian Studies, Charleston Southern University, Charleston, South Carolina)If you're looking for something to read on marriage, whether alone as a husband or a wife, as a single person preparing for marriage, or as a couple reading together, I think that this devotion would be a great choice for you. Rather than seeking out modern wisdom on marriage, you're turning back to 2,000 years of church history and gaining wisdom and insight from two millennia of Christian thinkers.With that historical focus, coupled with the short nature of the devotions (2 pages each), I believe that this will be a great resource to any man or woman, single or married, to gain a better understanding of what a biblical marriage looks like, and what it means for marriage to be "held in honor by all" (Heb. 13:4). -- Zack Ford, Youth Pastor at Grace Bible Church, Mountain City, GeorgiaAs a woman engaged to be married for the first time (in my mid-50s), who loves classic Christian writings and devotional literature, I have found this book to be a treasure trove. A sweet and timely source of wisdom as I seek to honor Christ in a new season and station of life. -- Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth (Author and founder & host of Revive Our Hearts)What a delightful mix of historical wisdom, biblical truth, and real-world application. In these pages you'll hear the early church martyr Ignatius tell you, "Marriage is God's good gift." Keep reading and you'll see how good and glorious of a gift it is. -- Stephen J. Nichols (President, Reformation Bible College, CAO Ligonier Ministries, Sanford, Florida)Held in Honor is an easy to read devotional drawing on the wisdom of the past concerning the many issues related to marriage and how scripture speaks to them. This is an enjoyable read and proves that Christians of the past have as much to teach us about marriage as those in the present. This book will help you gain a greater appreciation for voices of the past in regards to the churches teaching on marriage. -- The Journal for Biblical Manhood and WomanhoodGood books on marriage are hard to find, but in Held in Honor, Robert Plummer and Matt Haste have taken an expedition through church history to bring back the finest gems of biblical teaching on marriage. Accompanied by biographical sketches and the authors' own commentary, this book will challenge, encourage, convict, and inspire every wife to cherish her marriage and prize her husband. -- Carolyn Mahaney (Author of Feminine Appeal, Blogger at www.girltalkhome.com)... a wonderful resource for Christians as they seek to live out their marriages in a way that glorifies God and exalts the Gospel. -- R. Albert Mohler (President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky)... Theologically informative and instructive and yet devotional in approach, it makes a fine contribution to contemporary Christian reflection on a most important institution. -- Carl R. Trueman (Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies, Grove City College, Pennsylvania)In my eight years of marriage I have found great joy in reading to Shannon Deane before we go to bed each night. I think I just found my favorite book to read to her! We are half way through reading HELD IN HONOR by Dr. Robert Plummer and Matt Haste and we have already been tremendously blessed because of it. Each chapter is only two pages long which makes it easy reading each night, even when you are tired. You are presented with a short bio from someone in church history along with a quote they have made about marriage. The quotes themselves have been amazing and helpful to see that people have struggled with the same difficulties in marriage for 2,000 years! It actually makes you feel quite sane.The authors then present you with a devotional follow up that brings clarity to the quote by directing your eyes to the Scriptures. There are challenging questions posed that if asked to your spouse will lead to deep conversations that bring edification and change in your marriage. This book is fun to read! -- Andy Deane, Dean, Calvary Chapel Bible College, CaliforniaThis inspiring collection of excerpts on marriage with accompanying devotionals will make stimulating reading for engaged and married couples and even singles... Highly recommended! -- Andreas Köstenberger (Founder of Biblical Foundations and co–author of ‘Equipping for Life’ and ‘God’s Design for Man & Woman’)I do not know of a more interesting and scholarly book to recommend for a marriage-focused devotional... Buy this book, treasure it on your nightstand, and don't forget to pass it to your sons and daughters as their marriage date approaches. -- Daniel Montgomery (Founder and CEO of Leadership Reality and author of ‘Leadership Mosaic’ and ‘How to be Present in an Absent World’)

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Book SynopsisWhat is the biggest threat facing churches today? Not enough young people? Too little mission and evangelism? Unsustainable buildings? Unappealing styles of worship? Not enough diversity? Whatever the reasons, the church today seems to exist in a state of anxiety, concerned with its self-preservation. In this bold and hopeful book, Martyn Percy argues that a being a broken church is in fact good news, as it is only through the cracks that the overwhelming abundance of God can shine through. This collection of essays and reflections considers what it means to be a precarious church. The term suggests uncertainty and peril, yet it is rooted in the Latin precatio, meaning prayer. It argues that the Church’s vocation is not to be successful or even to survive but to be precarious, liminal, unpredictable and mysterious – a place of encounter with the holy. The questions that should consume us are not, “how shall we remove the risks and alleviate our anxieties?”, but rather “how shall we live in this age of uncertainty?” Every age has had its uncertainties and this inspiring volume explores what faithfulness to each other and to God looks like in an age of anxiety.

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Book SynopsisWhen an older person is living on their own or in a nursing home, loneliness and a feeling of loss, especially the loss of independence and familiar company, as well as reduced choices, can be keenly felt. The joy of a visit from a familiar person can mean such a lot to them. In this very practical resource, Sr Mary provides guidelines and practical resources for those visiting older people in nursing homes, or their own homes on a long term basis. As well as information for visiting those who are mentally alert, there are also sections about visiting those in the later stages of dementia, those coming towards the end of life and when visiting restrictions are in place, such as in a pandemic. Part 1 is for general use, while Part 2 is for those for whom spirituality is particularly valued.Trade Review‘...presents the essence of the experience of many years that Sr Mary Threadgold has worked with patients of all kinds, especially the elderly... her ideas are very supportive, and will be immensely helpful to those faced with the passing of a parent, a friend or neighbour.’ * The Irish Catholioc *

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Book SynopsisThere are commentaries and there are books on preaching – but very few books that combine elements of both to enable the preacher or Bible teacher to prepare a series on specific sections of scripture.This series gives the Bible teacher suitable tools to understand the context of Biblical books; doctrinal themes; the methods of interpretation; the key interpretation points and how to communicate that message for the hearer.Whilst very useful for preachers, this book is also aimed at equipping small group study leaders, youth workers and other Bible teachers.Trade Review... This series of excellent guides aims to help the Bible teacher to observe what is there in the text, and prepare to convey its significance to contemporary hearers... It is like having the guidance of an experienced coach in the wonderful work of rightly handling the word of truth. -- John Woodhouse (Retired Principal and Lecturer in Doctrine and Old Testament, Moore College, Sydney, Australia)... This teaching series, written by skilled and trustworthy students of God's word, helps us to understand the Bible, believe it and obey it. I commend it to all Bible readers, but especially those whose task it is to teach the inspired word of God. -- Peter Jensen (Retired Archbishop of Sydney, Sydney, Australia)... the structure of each chapter is extremely helpful. After analysing and explaining the meaning of the text, the author moves from text to teaching. In this section the basic theme and aim are clarified and pointers to application made. This is perhaps what lifts these volumes beyond the limits of a normal commentary. It is also what Bible teachers and study leaders will find most attractive about them. -- Evangelicals NowNorth India desperately needs men and women who will preach and teach the Bible faithfully and PT's Teaching series is of great value in encouraging them to do just that. -- Isaac Shaw (Executive Director, Delhi Bible Institute, New Delhi, India)The Teaching series is a great resource for Bible study leaders and pastors, indeed for any Christian who wants to understand their Bible better. -- Mark Dever (Senior Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church and President, 9Marks.org, Washington, DC)

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Book SynopsisOur current neoliberal capitalist economic system is based on unethical values. The twentieth century economist John Maynard Keynes recognized this and wrote of a time in the future when we could transcend those values. Unfortunately Keynes believed that this would somehow happen automatically, and did not grasp the necessity of the need now to directly challenge the values on which our society is based, instead of simply waiting for them to fade away. The Buddha identified the vital importance of working to uproot the poisons of greed and hatred in the human psyche and in human society, and to replace them with their counterparts of generosity and loving kindness, in order to allow a different society to come into being.

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