Theology Books

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Book SynopsisReligious commitments can be a powerful engine for progressive social change, and in this new book, Raúl E. Zegarra examines the process of articulation of religious beliefs and political concerns that takes place in religious organizing and activism. Focusing on the example of Latin American liberation theology and the work of Peruvian theologian Gustavo Gutiérrez, Zegarra shows how liberation theology advocates have been able to produce a new balance between faith and politics that advances an agenda of progressive social change without reducing politics to faith or faith to politics. Drawing from theologian David Tracy's method of critical correlation, the book focuses on key historical, philosophical, and theological shifts that have allowed liberation theologians to produce a new interpretation of the relationship between faith and politics in the Christian tradition, especially when issues of social justice are at stake. The book further approaches liberation theology's contributions to theorizing social justice through an unconventional path: a critical dialogue with the work of philosopher John Rawls. This dialogue, as Zegarra contends, allows us to see more clearly the contributions of liberation theology to the cause of progressive social change. Ultimately the book stands between "public religion" and "public reason," offering something of a blueprint for theological innovation and for how to remain committed to one's faith while respecting and defending the core values of democracy. Trade Review"This is the best book on public theology I have read in a long time. A compelling read on every page, A Revolutionary Faith offers a highly original reflection on liberation theology and its relevance for our secular age."—José Casanova, Georgetown University"How do religious people articulate their theological commitments to social justice? A Revolutionary Faith offers a lucid and insightful account. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the convergence of faith and politics."—Mayra Rivera, Harvard University

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Book SynopsisThis book contributes to the literature on jurisprudence and theology by arguing for the role of a theoretically robust Christian theology in a legal community dominated by secular and liberal ideology. It is not a doctrinal or empirical analysis, but a theoretical exposition of the way in which modern law has contingently drifted from its theological origins. As a result, the legal system and the ideal of individual and communal relationship it envisages is characterised by antagonism and alienation, or more broadly, violence. The book contends that the way to restore a legal community of peace is to return to a Christian theology which is informed by Trinitarian thinking or the notion of unity in diversity, and reunites faith with reason. Returning reason to its ground in being allows peaceful persuasion by the revelation of God’s perfect being through the Trinity and Incarnation, which models and enables the peaceful coexistence of difference through self-sacrificing love. This in turn produces the law of love – to love your neighbour as yourself. Since love does no wrong to a neighbour, a legal community operating by the law of love can fulfil the obligations of law by going beyond merely what is required by law and love individuals as part of a community.Table of ContentsIntroduction I. From Violence to Peace II. The Nature of Violence III. Envisaging the Peaceful Legal Community IV. The Secular Challenge V. The Argument of this Book: From Violence to Peace 1. Milbank’s Milieu: Theorisations of Truth, Faith and Reason I. Introduction II. Milbank’s Theoretical Context III. Critiquing the Secular Genealogy IV. The Truth of Theology: Producing Peace through Trinitarian Correspondence V. Rejecting Secular Reason VI. Promoting Faith and the Reason of Theology 2. Secularising Science: The Divorce of Reason and Revelation I. Introduction II. The Theological Genesis and Subsequent Secularisation of Science III. (No) Salvation by Faith Alone: How the Reformation Further Divided Faith and Reason IV. Uniting Faith and Reason to Restore True Scientia: The Participation Model 3. Deconstructing Derrida: Law, Spirit, Logos I. The Postmodern and the Pagan II. Different Perspectives: The Metanarratives of Jacques Derrida III. The Pagan Differ(a)nce IV. Moving Perspectives: From Secular Reason to Christian Theology V. A Genuinely ‘Postmodern’ Theology VI. The Threshold of Ontological Peace: Constructing a Christian Theology of Legal Community 4. An Account of Secular(ised) Jurisprudence: Violence from Duns Scotus to Derrida I. Law and Postmodern Critical Augustinianism II. Faith, Reason and a Theological Natural Law III. ‘Creating’ the Secular: Duns Scotus, Univocity and Separating Philosophy from Theology IV. Machiavelli and Hobbes: Secular Legal Ontology and the Emergence of Governing Violence V. The Final Stage: Austin, Hart and the Violence of Secular Positivism VI. Diagnosing Legal Violence: Cover, Benjamin and Derrida VII. Escaping Legal Violence and the Possibility for Christian Peace 5. Violence, Attestation and Revelation: Reading Law and Truth in the Trial of Christ I. The Trial as a Narrative of Law and Truth II. Laws of Sin and Laws of Spirit: Paul, Faith and the Torah III. Christ Crucified: Conviction by the Law of Death IV. The Revelation of Christ: Faith, Mystery, Atonement V. Light in the Darkness: The Law of Love, Faith and Participation VI. Resurrecting the Peaceful Legal Community 6. The Paradox of Law and Truth in Christianity: On Materialism, the Sublime and Reading the Pauline Law of Love I. Žižek, Materialism and the Christian Legacy II. The Sublime Object: Defeating Death III. The Sublime Truth of Faith: Paradoxical Law, Love and Life through Resurrection IV. Manifesting the Peaceful Community: Faith and Practice 7. ‘Love Your (Legal) Neighbour as Yourself ’: Producing Peace through a Theological Jurisprudence of Truth I. ‘The End of Reason’: The Blind Faith of Secular Reason and Recovering Reason through the Incarnational Paradox II. ‘Faith in the Truth of Christianity’: Correspondence through Revelation and Rhetoric III. Revealing an Ontology of Peace: The Nature of Peace and Violence in Christianity IV. Christian Theology and the Modern Legal Community: Proposing the Law of Love V. The Law of Love, or Love beyond Law: Releasing the Spirit of the Good Samaritan VI. Fulfilling the Christian Vision of a Peaceful Legal Community

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Book SynopsisIt was the first book to ever be printed. It remains one of the most popular of all time, with whole societies of people professing to live their lives according to its pages – but can the Bible actually be trusted? Does it have any substance or is it just some nice ideas? Isn’t it full of contradictions, and can it really have anything to say in the 21st century? The fourth title of the First Steps series by 9Marks explores these questions and more, showing that the Bible is not only still relevant, it is powerful!Trade ReviewChristian Focus Publications, 20Schemes and 9Marks are to be congratulated on their collaboration on the First Steps series as they take seriously the challenge of preparing materials designed to equip those from an unchurched background as they begin their Christian life. -- Hector Morrison (Principal, Highland Theological College, Dingwall)It is so refreshing to read such a practical book with such vivid illustrations on such a complex topic. This should be mandatory reading for all seminary students! -- Ed Moore (Head Pastor, North Shore Baptist Church Bayside, New York)… short and sweet. Profoundly simple, incredibly insightful, and comprehensively concise. I can’t think of a better starting point for anyone beginning their Christian journey (or refreshing the foundations) than this resource on trusting the Bible! I look forward to using this book for years to come. -- John Onwuchekwa (Lead Pastor, Cornerstone Church, Atlanta, Georgia)The most engaging discipleship material I have ever had the pleasure to read. It is written with theological precision and amazing clarity. The intertwining of propositional truth with an entertaining narrative enhances its readability. It will be a wonderful help for the sceptic, the seeker, and the believer. I hope that the authors have an eye to writing further volumes on equally essential topics of the Christian faith. They are most needed! -- Paul Washer (Founder and Missions Director, Heart Cry Ministry, Radford, Virginia)

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Book Synopsis'A movingly personal book ... the fruit of much deeply meditated sharing of the good news with people of all sorts. Reading it is a real discovery of the fresh waters of faith.' - from the foreword by Rowan Williams 'After this, when Jesus knew that all now was finished, he said, "I am thirsty."' Jesus' words from the cross - a picture of God sharing the world's suffering, experiencing our humanity - can be a window onto God's purposes, leading to a deeper appreciation of his overwhelming love. I Thirst, the Archbishop of Canterbury's Lent book for 2004, helps us explore what the death of Jesus means and how it relates to our lives today.Bishop Stephen Cottrell follows the passion story in John's Gospel, penetrating the deep mystery of a God who loves humanity no matter the cost. Each layer of meaning in the simple cry 'I thirst' is an invitation to consider our own lives and think again about what it means to be a follower of Christ in the modern world.

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Book Synopsis“There is always an atheism to be extracted from a religion,” Deleuze and Guattari write in their final collaboration, What Is Philosophy? Their claim that Christianity “secretes” atheism “more than any other religion,” however, reflects the limits of their archive. Theological projects seeking to engage Deleuze remain embedded within Christian theologies and intellectual histories; whether they embrace, resist, or negotiate with Deleuze’s atheism, the atheism in question remains one extracted from Christian theology, a Christian atheism. In Sufi Deleuze, Michael Muhammad Knight offers an intervention, engaging Deleuzian questions and themes from within Islamic tradition. Even if Deleuze did not think of himself as a theologian, Knight argues, to place Deleuze in conversation with Islam is a project of comparative theology and faces the challenge of any comparative theology: It seemingly demands that complex, internally diverse traditions can speak as coherent, monolithic wholes. To start from such a place would not only defy Islam’s historical multiplicity but also betray Deleuze’s model of the assemblage, which requires attention to not only the organizing and stabilizing tendencies within a structure but also the points at which a structure resists organization, its internal heterogeneity, and unpredictable “lines of flight.” A Deleuzian approach to Islamic theology would first have to affirm that there is no such thing as a universal “Islamic theology” that can speak for all Muslims in all historical settings, but rather a multiplicity of power struggles between major and minor forces that contest each other over authenticity, authority, and the making of “orthodoxy.” The discussions in Sufi Deleuze thus highlight Islam’s extraordinary range of possibilities, not only making use of canonically privileged materials such as the Qur’an and major hadith collections, but also exploring a variety of marginalized resources found throughout Islam that challenge the notion of a singular “mainstream” interpretive tradition. To say it in Deleuze’s vocabulary, Islam is a rhizome.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Secrets and Secretions | 1 1 Deleuze and Tafsir: Th e Rhizomatic Qur’an | 25 2 People of the Sunna and the Assemblage: Deleuzian Hadith Theory | 61 3 Beyond Theology: Sufism as Arrangement and Affect | 84 4 The Immanence of Baraka: Bodies and Territory | 104 5 Arm Leg Leg Arm Head: Five Percenter Theologies of Immanence | 119 Conclusion: The Seal of Muslim Pseudo | 144 Acknowledgments | 155 Notes | 157 Bibliography | 171 Index | 181

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Book Synopsis“There is always an atheism to be extracted from a religion,” Deleuze and Guattari write in their final collaboration, What Is Philosophy? Their claim that Christianity “secretes” atheism “more than any other religion,” however, reflects the limits of their archive. Theological projects seeking to engage Deleuze remain embedded within Christian theologies and intellectual histories; whether they embrace, resist, or negotiate with Deleuze’s atheism, the atheism in question remains one extracted from Christian theology, a Christian atheism. In Sufi Deleuze, Michael Muhammad Knight offers an intervention, engaging Deleuzian questions and themes from within Islamic tradition. Even if Deleuze did not think of himself as a theologian, Knight argues, to place Deleuze in conversation with Islam is a project of comparative theology and faces the challenge of any comparative theology: It seemingly demands that complex, internally diverse traditions can speak as coherent, monolithic wholes. To start from such a place would not only defy Islam’s historical multiplicity but also betray Deleuze’s model of the assemblage, which requires attention to not only the organizing and stabilizing tendencies within a structure but also the points at which a structure resists organization, its internal heterogeneity, and unpredictable “lines of flight.” A Deleuzian approach to Islamic theology would first have to affirm that there is no such thing as a universal “Islamic theology” that can speak for all Muslims in all historical settings, but rather a multiplicity of power struggles between major and minor forces that contest each other over authenticity, authority, and the making of “orthodoxy.” The discussions in Sufi Deleuze thus highlight Islam’s extraordinary range of possibilities, not only making use of canonically privileged materials such as the Qur’an and major hadith collections, but also exploring a variety of marginalized resources found throughout Islam that challenge the notion of a singular “mainstream” interpretive tradition. To say it in Deleuze’s vocabulary, Islam is a rhizome.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Secrets and Secretions | 1 1 Deleuze and Tafsir: Th e Rhizomatic Qur’an | 25 2 People of the Sunna and the Assemblage: Deleuzian Hadith Theory | 61 3 Beyond Theology: Sufism as Arrangement and Affect | 84 4 The Immanence of Baraka: Bodies and Territory | 104 5 Arm Leg Leg Arm Head: Five Percenter Theologies of Immanence | 119 Conclusion: The Seal of Muslim Pseudo | 144 Acknowledgments | 155 Notes | 157 Bibliography | 171 Index | 181

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Book SynopsisThe relationship between eternity and time is a common subject for theologians and philosophers. What difference does it make for this discussion that God became man and inhabited time in Jesus Christ? In God's Time for Us, James J. Cassidy examines the theology of Karl Barth to show that God is our Father who does not neglect us for lack of time; he is the God who has time to be with us. God also quite literally has time in his own being by virtue of the incarnation. Cassidy shows that Barth seeks a rapprochement between eternity and time, which is overcome by Jesus Christ.There is today a resurgence in interest in the theology of Barth, especially among evangelicals. Yet Barth is often read without discernment and discussed in churches without full understanding. Cassidy illuminates his thought so evangelicals can make a better, more well-informed appraisal of the man and his theology.Trade ReviewDr. Cassidy provides the reader with a highly consistent, indeed fully systematic, reading of Karl Barth's conception of eternity and time, drawing extensively upon the continuing flow of secondary literature. It thus reinforces the defining, indeed dominant role in twenty-first century Reformed theology of the master theologian of the past century. --Richard H. Roberts, PhD, Professor emeritus of religious studies, Lancaster University"Time and eternity are central concepts in Christian theology, yet they are routinely misunderstood. This is not surprising, since time and eternity are profoundly difficult aspects of reality to grasp. Karl Barth did more than most theologians to explore and explicate time and eternity, and in Jim Cassidy's work we have a useful and reliable guide to his thought. This work will prove stimulating and constructive for theologians working both with and beyond Barth."--Myk Habets, PhD, Head of Carey Graduate School, director of the R.J. Thompson Centre for Theological Studies"James Cassidy's study on time fills an important gap in contemporary Barth scholarship. Cassidy's work brings together important and varied motifs from Karl Barth's discussion of God's time for us in Jesus Christ. It also sheds light on some of the most significant debates in contemporary Barth studies. This book will certainly deepen our understanding of the issues it discusses."--Shao Kai Tseng, DPhil, Assistant professor of systematic theology, China Evangelical Seminary, Taipei, Taiwan"James Cassidy boldly states that, in Barth's theology, the concept of being is replaced with that of time. Actualistic ontology is only a penultimate word for Barth; the ultimate word is time. Cassidy firmly stands in Jüngel/McCormack's tradition of interpreting Barth: The election of Jesus Christ constitutes the triune being of God. But he, in a sense, goes beyond it and rereads the entire Church Dogmatics, taking time as the most basic ontological category of Barth's theology. It is also a relief to know that another scholar thinks that one of Barth's literary methods is equivocation."--Yaroslav Viazovski, Ph.D. (University of Aberdeen, UK), author of Image and Hope: John Calvin and Karl Barth on Body, Soul, and Life Everlasting."Cassidy's sympathetic but critical discussion of Barth's treatment of eternity and time is a valuable contribution to Barth studies. His careful and incisive probing of the complexities of Barth's thought, interacting with current debate, should provide a stimulus for further development."--Robert Letham, Professor of systematic and historical theology, Union School of Theology, Bridgend, Wales "In this creative and provocative work, James J. Cassidy offers an engagement with Karl Barth on the themes of time and eternity which will send diligent readers both back into the Church Dogmatics and forward into constructive theology. This volume demonstrates not only the way in which Barth's understanding of matters temporal and eternal is rooted in the person of Jesus Christ, but also the way in which this understanding is relevant across the entire array of doctrines which Barth explores. This generative interpretation of Barth's legacy is sure to provoke welcome interest and fierce debate."--Paul T. Nimmo, King's Chair of Systematic Theology, University of Aberdeen, Scotland

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Book SynopsisThis book, originally published in 1836 as Evidences of the Authenticity, Inspiration, and Canonical Authority of Holy Scripture, contains Archibald Alexander's defense of God's role in the inspiration of Scripture. Alexander devotes time to defending the truth of Scripture, the veracity of miracles, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the credibility of the Gospels, firmly supporting the view that the revelation of God in the Bible is neither improbable nor unreasonable.Lexham Classics are beautifully typeset new editions of classic works. Each book has been carefully transcribed from the original texts, ensuring an accurate representation of the writing as the author intended it to be read.

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Book SynopsisA noted evangelical scholar presents a serious treatment of the doctrine of the love of God in an honest, biblically sound handling of questions it raises, misconstrued sentimentalities, and difficult passages.

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Book SynopsisA unique interreligious dialogue provides needed context for deeper understanding of interfaith relations, from ancient to modern times Freedom is far from straightforward as a topic of comparative theology. While it is often identified with modernity and even postmodernity, freedom has long been an important topic for reflection by both Christians and Muslims, discussed in both the Bible and the Quran. Each faith has a different way of engaging with the idea of freedom shaped by the political context of their beginnings. The New Testament emerged in a region under occupation by the Roman Empire, whereas the Quran was first received in tribal Arabia, a stateless environment with political freedom. Freedom: Christian and Muslim Perspectives, edited by Lucinda Mosher, considers how Christian and Muslim faith communities have historically addressed many facets of freedom. The book presents essays, historical and scriptural texts, and reflections. Topics include God's freedom, human freedom to obey God, autonomy versus heteronomy, autonomy versus self-governance, freedom from incapacitating addiction and desire, hermeneutic or discursive freedom vis-à-vis scripture and tradition, religious and political freedom, and the relationship between personal conviction and public order. The rich insights expressed in this unique interfaith discussion will benefit readers—from students and scholars, to clerics and community leaders, to politicians and policymakers—who will gain a deeper understanding of how these two communities define freedom, how it is treated in both religious and secular texts, and how to make sense of it in the context of our contemporary lives.Table of ContentsParticipants Introduction Part One: Overviews Who Gets to Decide what Freedom Is? A Christian Perspective C. Rosalee Velloso Ewell God-Given Freedom: An Islamic Point of View Tuba Işik Freedom in the Contemporary Context: Trends in Intersections of Religion, Development, and Foreign Policy Azza Karam Part Two: Islamic Texts on Freedom Aspects of Human Freedom: Reflections on Selections from the Quran and Hadith Abdullah Saeed The Quran and Hadith on Freedom: Selections for Dialogue Freedom as a Theme in Islamic Thought: An Introduction to Selected Pre-Modern Texts Lejla Demiri Pre-Modern Islamic Writings on Freedom: Selected for Dialogue Modern Muslim Elucidations and Contentions on Freedom: An Introduction to Texts for Dialogue Martin Nguyen Islamic Thought from the Modern Period: Texts for Dialogue About Freedom Part Three: Christian Texts on Freedom Freedom in the Hebrew Bible: From Exodus to Ezekiel, by way of Reba McEntire and Rage against the Machine Christopher M. Hays Old Testament Texts About Freedom: Selections for Dialogue The Motif of Freedom in New Testament Texts: An Introduction Susan Eastman New Testament Texts About Freedom: Selections for Dialogue Thematic Dimensions of Freedom: Christian Texts from the Classical Period Jonathan Chaplin Christian Thought on Freedom in the Classical Period: Selected Texts for Dialogue Freedom in Modern Christian Thought: Introduction to Selected Texts Peniel Jesudason Rufus Rajkumar Christian Writings from the Modern Period: Selections for Dialogue About Freedom Part Four: Reflections Conversations on the Theme of Freedom: Reflections on the Building Bridges Seminar at le Château de Bossey Lucinda Mosher Subject Index Scriptural Citation Index About the Editor

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Book SynopsisWe live in a society that has little tolerance for suffering. Suffering is not only unpleasant. Profound, innocent suffering can upend our sense of identity. Yet, we push suffering people to the periphery to avoid an uncomfortable truth: We are all subject to suffering. In a time when Christian churches suffer the loss of authority, influence, and membership, Patterson challenges the idea that we need such power to live on earth as in heaven. Only God can transform suffering into joy. Drawing on her experience with cancer, Patterson claims Christians hold certain responsibilities while we wait for this transformation. Revisiting the story of Job, she confronts the problem of suffering and what it takes to suffer well. This sets the scene for what a fleshy, wounded Jesus Christ calls us to do: use suffering to build compassionate relationships with others who suffer.

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Book Synopsis“Doing” theology ought to be deep, creative, and awe-inspiring. Big theological questions should be asked in the most genuinely helpful manner. Often, and inevitably from a human perspective, we ask questions such as “Why doesn’t God…?” or “Why does God allow…?” or, perhaps more appropriately, “What is the best way to conceive of God through His engagement with creation?” In Real Divine Insight and Human Consciousness, Andrew Bigg considers the logical and eschatological consequences of the pivotal union of “perspectives” in the Christian concept of Incarnation. The systematic approach proceeds as “according to a whole,” or both theologically and scientifically relevant.We are aware, not least through Biblical texts, that there is a divine viewpoint of creation. The Bible says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways…For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). Furthermore, “the Lord does not see as mortals see” (1 Samuel 16:7), and we even hear the charge “you thought that I was one just like yourself” (Psalm 50:21).Humanity, however, asks questions about God’s “perspective,” while God asks rhetorical questions about human perspectives. In the Incarnation, however, these conflicting perspectives are somehow established in union with one another. From this divine-human perspective, Christ asks His disciples the incisive opening question “What are you looking for?,” followed by the invitation “come and see” (John 1:37-39). Engaging theologically, learning what best to ask and how best to ask it, is inseparable from a journey of formation, preparation, and growth towards that ultimately shared self-knowledge to which Christ’s invitation directs us, pointing towards a nuanced way of “seeing” and, eventually, “seeing together.”

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Book SynopsisHenry Scougal died in 1657 at the age of 27 but by then he was already Professor of Divinity at Aberdeen University.This timeless classic was originally written to encourage a friend and stimulate his spiritual life. It was so appreciated that it was later published as a book for a wider readership.A hundred years later a copy was sent to George Whitefield by his friend, Charles Wesley – it was instrumental in Whitefield’s conversion. This book provided much of the stimulation behind the Methodist Revival of Britain and the Great Awakening in America. In it Scougal explains the four essential characteristics of divine life, their excellence, their advantages and the practical steps that you can take in realising them as your personal experience.Trade Review"Henry's Scougal's exposition of 'true religion', his phrase echoed by Whitefield, meaning genuine Christianity was from one standpoint the seed out of which the English side of the revival first sprouted; for the book was favourite reading in Oxford's Holy club, where the Wesleys and Whitefield first came together." -- J. I. Packer ((1926–2020), Board of Governors’ Professor of Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, Canada)"I never knew what true religion was till God sent me this excellent treatise." -- George Whitefield (18th Century Evangelist)I appeal to all, whatever age, to read this book and cry to God for true heart-felt religion and so to begin to LIVE! What an impact this may have under God's blessing. Let us all pray to this end. -- Joseph Hewitt, Pastor Emeritus, College Park Baptist Church, Lewisham"There are some books whose vision is so deep and clear that truth rings from the page like a large bell, perfectly obvious but rare and precious. They unfold the heart of man and God with such forceful illumination that the truth is not shwon to my mind but created in my heart...so it went as i grazed in the green pasture of this remarkable book." -- John Piper (Founder of Desiring God Ministries, Chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary, Minneapolis, Minnesota)

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Book SynopsisGrace is the heart of God to do you good when you deserve it least. But do we really know how deeply we don’t deserve it? Only God can reveal that to us. He does it through the Bible. And when he does, the wonders of his grace explode with brightness as never before. These Five Points are about how Christians come into being, and how we are kept forever. It reaches back into times past when we were freely chosen. It reaches forward into the future when we will be safe and happy forever. It reaches down into the mysteries of the work of Christ, purchasing the gift of faith for all God’s children. And it reaches into the human soul, glimpsing the mysteries of the Spirit’s work as he conquers all our rebellion and makes us willing captives of King Jesus. Piper believes that our experience of grace grows with our grasp of God’s gracious work. He invites us to come with him on this quest.Trade ReviewImagine being able to chat over a meal with John Piper about the five points of Calvinism. That's pretty much what you get in this book: a clear statement of these life-changing truths delivered with warm pastoral sensitivity in a conversational style. You won't find yourself being browbeaten. Instead, you'll find yourself invited to marvel at God's wonderful grace. The only thing missing is the meal. -- Tim Chester (Author and senior faculty member, Crosslands Training)I love this new book by John Piper. I don't know of any other brief book on this subject that so manifestly takes us down into the Scriptures and then so wonderfully lifts us up to see the glory of God. Many people will be encouraged, and not a few will have their faith jolted in the best way possible. -- Kevin DeYoung (Senior Pastor, Christ Covenant Church, Matthews, North Carolina)... buzzing with sound doctrine. This book is short, readable and highly recommended. -- The Monthly Record- Free Church of Scotland Magazine (Magazine of the Free Church of Scotland)This is a great introduction to a biblical theology of the sovereignty of God in salvation. It is not simply an apologetic for the traditional five points of Calvinism but outlines the simple and nourishing doctrines from a biblical foundation. It is simple, and communicated with the same heartfelt passion that accompanies all Pipers books. There is no historical background given but the five Calvinistic doctrines are clearly explained and their implications are worked out, with each chapter making the grace of God shine brightly. It reminded me gently but convincingly why these doctrines matter greatly to Christians today. It reminded me that what is commonly called Calvinism is at the heart of the gospel for it's origin is Scripture (not Calvin).The last two chapters (personal testimony and concluding testimonies) are a wonderful place to start reading this book, and provide motivation to read the preceding chapters. -- Theology 150 - Rutherford House

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Book SynopsisWhen Christians reflect on the gospel, their attention is rightly drawn to the cross and empty tomb. But is this it? Or is there much more to the story? In a ground–breaking work, J. V. Fesko reminds us that the great news of this gospel message is rooted in eternity, whereby a covenant was made between the persons of the Trinity in order to redeem sinners like you and me. J. V. Fesko, in the first of a three part series on covenant theology featuring Redemption, Grace and Works, aims to retrieve and recover classic Reformed covenant theology for the church.Trade ReviewThough it has sometimes been a forgotten doctrine of the Reformed faith, Fesko breaks the silence, retrieving the covenant of redemption afresh for a new generation. -- Matthew Barrett (Associate Professor of Christian Theology, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Missouri )Some books today exegete the shining truths of the Holy Scriptures, others mine the treasures of Reformed orthodoxy, and yet others interact with influential theologians of the modern era. This book is one of the few that does all three, and does them well. -- Joel R. Beeke (Chancellor, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan)... displays the vitality and richness of the covenant of redemption for other doctrines-not least, the Trinity. In both method and substance, this is an exemplary work that will edify as well as inform. -- Michael HortonAs pastors we desperately need to deepen our understanding of scriptural doctrines that may seldom be of any great use in our pastoral visitation and counselling but that will stretch our minds and sharpen our reasoning, so increasing our overall usefulness in the ministry. It is in these areas that this book will be of great benefit to any careful reader. The interaction with current theological trends and writers makes this book essential reading for pastors keen to have an able and trustworthy guide through these debates. I heartily commend the book and thank the author for a most helpful addition to the literature on the covenant of redemption -- Affinity - Gospel Churches in Partnership... shows historical care, exegetical soundness, and doctrinal wisdom. I commend it heartily as a wonderful entryway to considering this most profound facet of the Christian confession. -- Michael Allen... by engaging in Scripture exegesis, historical reflection, and interaction with modern trends in theology, Fesko admirably puts the covenant of redemption back in its rightful place in Reformed theology. -- Ryan M. McGraw

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Book SynopsisOur human consciousness and individuality -- and our potential for freedom of choice -- is possible because we have a physical body, separate from the spiritual realm. But for human beings to continue to develop, we need to reconnect to the divine world. The incarnation, death and resurrection of Christ is what makes this reconnection possible. This profound book, a collection of lectures by Christian Community priest Michael Kientzler, discusses this central mystery of Christianity. He explores the nature of resurrection, and how it ultimately leads to human redemption or salvation. This is a thoughtful, insightful book for those interested in spiritual and inner development.Trade Review'The author portrays the three aspects of the self and their functions in a vivid and lively manner[...] The narratives of the birth of Jesus given by Matthew and Luke is looked at with a fresh eye and originality. It is a joy to find these questions addressed in a straightforward, original and lively manner[...]. It makes a valuable contribution to these matters, demonstrating how taking a comprehensive view of the subject gives enhanced credence to its separate parts[...] Down-to-earth yet profound.'-- Perspectives'An inspiring work and would be a helpful book for those coming new to Christology as well as for others welcoming clarification and research into Christ's "reappearance", thus deepening their understanding.'-- Anthroposophical Society in Great BritainTable of Contents1. Evolution and the Development of the Self 2. The Striving for the Higher Self 3. The Incarnation of Christ 4. The Redemption of the Self

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Book SynopsisThe stories of Samuel, Saul and David are among the most memorable in the Old Testament. Yet the lives of these individuals are bound up in the larger story of God's purpose for his people. V. Philips Long explores the meaning of the biblical history of Israel's vital transition from a confederation of tribes to nationhood under a king. He shows how attending to the books of Samuel repays their readers richly in terms of literary appreciation, historical knowledge and theological grounding.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the 2021 France Jones Prize for Welsh History. The first of a two-volume analysis of theology in Wales, this volume begins with the publication of Bishop William Morgan’s Bible in 1588 and concludes with the first phase of the Evangelical Revival in 1760. It assesses the development of Puritanism and of doctrine within the Church of England, Dissenting theology including Calvinism and Arminianism, the doctrinal vision of Griffith Jones Llanddowror, and the way in which an evangelistically vibrant moderate Calvinism contributed to the rise of the Methodist movement. As well as evaluating thought and ideas, it assesses the contribution of such vivid personalities as Morgan Llwyd, Charles Edwards, James and Jeremy Owen, Daniel Rowland and William Williams Pantycelyn.Table of ContentsIntroduction: The Bible in Welsh Chapter 1 1588–1642 Chapter 2 1642–1660 Chapter 3 1660–1689 Chapter 4 1689–1760 (i) Chapter 5 1689–1760 (ii) Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisRadiantand Resolutelooks at what the church will be like before Christ's second coming and callsus to be committed and obedient Jesus followers who are ready for thechallenges ahead.

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Book SynopsisA look at the nature of myth as a carrier of deep truth and that we all have our own internal myths about ourselves and life. Exploring what was and is meant by the term Messiah, both in the 1st century and now. "Here is a book bursting with common sense and inspiration, written by someone who has known life in all its rich complexity... It's a book that has to be read by all those who dare to ask for more" Revd Dr Terry Biddington FRSA, Dean of Spiritual Life, Winchester University.

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Book SynopsisChurch planting is in vogue, yet there is a paucity of sustained biblical and theological reflection on the topic. Key voices are practitioners and planters themselves - here is the biblical theology that the missiological practice of our day has been crying out for. John Valentine explores the Bible's 'how' and 'why' for starting new churches and revitalizing old ones - in this robust and comprehensive biblical theological look at one aspect of the mission of God.Trade Review'Church planting has received a lot of attention in recent years, which has caused some people to think it is a new phenomenon. The result is that many of the books on church planting are shallow and lack a robust biblical theology. John Valentine has written a timely book that offers a biblical and theological foundation for church planting in today's complex and challenging world. If you are looking for a fresh introduction to church planting for today's world that is theologically sound, while at the same time practical, this book is for you!' -- Revd Dr Winfield Bevins, author of Liturgical Mission'Anchored in biblical and theological truth, and reflections on John's many years of practical experience, this book underpins the inter- twined nature of mission and church planting while infusing a fuel of encouragement and inspiration to the existing fire. A vital companion for the contemporary church leader and church planter. It is a must-read.' -- Revd Dr Girma Bishaw, Director and founder at Gratitude initiative, City Catalyst for the London Project and part of the pastoral team at Reality Church London'I was privileged to attend the church planting course that John helped lead in 2017, so I am delighted to see that he has set out here the fundamentals for those who are setting out on, reflecting on, or seeking to understand the church-planting journey. Church planting is without a doubt the most exciting and challenging thing I have been involved in, and John brings theological depth and sound biblical knowledge to the task, as well as being a sure and experienced guide. I wholeheartedly commend this book.' -- Fran Carabott, pioneer minister and leader of St Margaret's Community Church plant in Southsea, Portsmouth'I am delighted that John has written this full and robust theology of church planting. It will give confidence to both trainers and practitioners to continue this much-needed movement in the church.' -- Archie Coates, vicar, Holy Trinity Brompton'Church planting has been perceived as a missional strategy that prioritizes numerical growth over theological rigour. Valentine responds to this criticism with scholarly conviction and the passion of an experienced practitioner. Through careful analysis and thorough research, he locates the impulse of church replication in the very warp and weft of the biblical narrative, not to mention some of the core concerns of Christian ecclesiology. This book will be an indispensable resource for any church planter or student of the discipline.' -- Fr Justin Dodd, church planter and vicar of St Barnabas Ealing'John Valentine's theological gifts and his personal experience as a church planter make him uniquely qualified to write this book. John knows what he is writing about.' -- Nicky Gumbel, former vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton'For centuries the church was so wedded to Christendom that church planting was rarely considered - and, if it was, it was often misunderstood or even seen as illegitimate. As John so wonderfully shows, this view has been largely turned over by a wonderful wave of new and varied new church-planting activity. This book gives us exactly what is now needed - a significant contribution to the theological underpinnings of this most biblical and missional expression of the gospel.' -- Paul Harcourt, National Leader, New Wine England'John Valentine has given us a wonderful gift! Church planting is all the rage these days, but few books anchor the practice within sound biblical theology. Jesus, the Church and the Mission of God offers us precisely that. Written in a highly accessible prose, Valentine situates church planting firmly within God's mission, with timely reflections for what this means for the church of Jesus Christ in our contemporary day. The book reads as if talking with John Valentine: kind, wise and filled with poignant insights. It's a must-read for anyone involved in church planting.' -- Gregg Okesson, Provost, Asbury Theological Seminary, and author of A Public Missiology: How Local Churches Witness to a Complex World (2020)

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Book SynopsisIn 2020 Britain marked the 25th anniversary of Racial Justice Sunday. This movement was established at a time when the UK was having to face up to both overt and subversive forms of racism, epitomised by the tragic killing of black teenager, Stephen Lawrence, in Eltham in 1993. This murder, and other racist attacks, gave mainstream visibility to the struggle of many Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people to obtain full equality and justice. Race for Justice brings together a collection of voices on this vital issue from a wide variety of Christian denominations. Each contributor to this volume serves as a racial justice, equalities, diversity, or inclusion officer. Equipped with extensive frontline experience, they each give their perspective on the successes and failures of race relations in the church over the last quarter of a century, as well as addressing contemporary challenges and their hopes for the future.

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Book SynopsisAn accessible introduction explaining the person and divinity of Jesus from Mike Reeves, author of the acclaimed bestseller The Good God. How can we know who God is? We look to Jesus. How can we live a godly life? We look to Jesus. How do we know we can be saved? We look to Jesus. In this lively and refreshing book, we find an accessible introduction to the profound glory and wonder of Christ. With wit and clarity, Michael Reeves, author of bestselling The Good God, draws from notable teachers from church history to the present to reveal a deeper and richer understanding of who Jesus is, his life on earth, his death and resurrection and his anticipated return. Rather than just merely adding to our knowledge about Jesus, this book is a call to consider Christ more deeply so that he might become more central for you, that you might know him better, treasure him more, and enter into his joy. Be encouraged to look upon Jesus and see how he is indeed our life, our righteousness, our holiness and our hope. Content Benefits: This accessible and engaging book will help you understand Jesus Christ in a deeper and richer way and draw you into a deeper relationship with God. Unpacks the glorious person of Jesus within the Trinity Expands our view of Christ Explores the idea that only does Jesus bring good news, he is the good news Shows how knowledge of Jesus should impact the way we live out our faith An accessible but theological introduction to Christology A perfect book for anyone who has read Mike Reeve's The Good God Ideal for any students studying theology or Christology Suitable for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of faith Published as Rejoicing in Christ in the USA Binding - Paperback Pages - 170 Publisher - PaternosterTrade Review‘Mike Reeves has done it again. This is another rich, deep, simple, joyful, thrilling book: theology that does what theology should, in pointing us to Jesus, marvelling, and celebrating.’ Andrew Wilson, elder at King’s Church, Eastbourne, and author

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Book SynopsisMankind has a choice: either to accept the power of the God the creator or the power of Satan the created. Living with a natural power must definitely be influenced by the evil one; but God''s power transforms the natural to the supernatural, which combats and defeats the power of Satan. How, then, can we acquire the former and escape the latter?Instructive and inspiring, this book provides the answers. The author reflects on how the power of God came to earth and how Jesus Christ came, recovering the power and the blessings lost by man. Your acceptance of Jesus Christ and the work He has done will bring in God''s power with the authority to perform more than Jesus Christ did on earth.This is a truly reliable handbook for Christians who seek to safeguard their spiritual strength and put the gifts they receive to work in the ministry of Christ.

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Book SynopsisThings that divide Christians act as a poor witness to the world. On such major schism is that of Baptism. However if we can't agree, the next best witness to the world is the manner of how we disagree. The two views explored here, paedo (or infant) baptism and adult (or believer's) baptism are often so entrenched that discussions can be based around prejudice rather than understanding. This classic book aims to eradicate the former and promote the latter. Do you know why Anglicans, Presbyterians and Methodists baptise babies? Do you know why Baptists find it impossible to understand why they do it? Do you know why most Baptists find it difficult to allow Paedobaptists to take communion or become church members? We owe it to the future health of the church, and its witness, to work out our differences in love before the world. This book looks at the biblical arguments for both views on baptism, show how these have been practised in church history and the place that baptism has in the church today. This book is based on the 1998 extended version of the 1977 classic.Donald Bridge and David Phypers approach this book from two different directions - respectively that of Baptist and Anglican. The common approach they bring is their respect of the others position as regards fidelity to scripture and faith.Trade Review"This revised and updated version (of The Water that Divides) is a model of the informed, respectful and irenic dialogue of which Evangelicalism stands in continual need. The final chapter, which sensitively sets baptismal practice within today's context, is a particularly valuable survey, whatever our stance on the cluster of issues which gather under the canopy of 'post-modernism'. This is an invaluable text for all involved, at every level, with Christian initiation and local church membership." -- Bruce Milne (Author and Conference Speaker)This volume would go some way to help people rethink what are true Gospel vitals and what are secondary, and hence non-divisive, issues. I commend this book to get Christians thinking and seeking a mutual way forward - we cannot afford the luxury of glasshouses, whichever side of the debate we stand. -- Rev J. F. Dunn

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1737 this book holds a special place among the tremendous amount of Puritan literature that was produced during that time. Thomas Boston was renowned for his clearly understood English and the manner in which he maintained that clarity while conveying messages of great depth. The Crook in the Lot is introduced to us by J. I. Packer. In an extensive prologue he shows how Boston’s advice remains deeply relevant today. Boston was not preaching merely from his theological understanding, he was speaking from direct personal experience. Boston had real “thorns” to deal with himself, ranging from his wife’s paralyzing depression to his own experiences living for years with what were probably kidney stones. He brings his own unique combination of wonderfully profound and yet immensely practical advice to bear to give us a work of lasting impact.Trade Review"..The pure Biblical wisdom of The Crook in the Lot is badly need by many of us, and so I am delighted that is being made available in this handy form." -- J. I. Packer ((1926–2020), Board of Governors’ Professor of Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, Canada)

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