Zondervan

Book SynopsisSince forever altering the course of the youth ministry world with his best-selling, groundbreaking book, Purpose-Driven® Youth Ministry, Doug Fields’ mind—but especially his heart—has been focused on the many unique needs of new youth workers. Doug translated his passion, insight, and vision for his beloved “rookies” into what you’re now reading, Your Fist Two Years in Youth Ministry—hands-down the most comprehensive companion to not only surviving, but also thriving, during the most crucial phase of youth ministry. Employing his renowned wisdom and humor—as if you and Doug were chatting over a long, relaxing meal—the author disarmingly relates stories and principles from his own successes and failures over 20-plus years in youth ministry. In the end, he offers treasure troves of practical advice, all in the hope that new youth workers can travel a smoother path and achieve real longevity in a church culture that all too oftTable of Contentsacknowledgments essay writer profiles before you dig in [13] 1. where do i start? committing to the essentials [19] “In 1979 I was a rookie youth worker with no idea what I was doing. I took teenagers to R-rated movies; I had a Jacuzzi party in the baptismal because a 12-year-old thought it would be fun…Thankfully, a lot has changed...” 2. why do i feel this way? dealing with discouragement [41] “Discouragement may be the single most powerful feeling that entices great women and men to exit prematurely from youth ministry.” 3. how do i stay spiritually fresh? establishing a heart foundation [63] “Being connected to God on a daily basis is more important than any youth ministry semi-nar you attend or any book you read.” 4. what’s most important to students? being with them [81] “As you begin your youth ministry, please keep in mind that programs only exist to build and strengthen relationships with God and with one another! Relationships are key to a healthy ministry!” 5. how do i work with parents? becoming family friendly [103] “This is an important chapter conceived through struggle and pain. I’d love to save you from some of the hurt I’ve caused and experienced.” 6. why all the conflict? dealing with difficult people [127] “During my years of leadership, I’ve experienced enough tension to fill an entire book. I’ve shed tears, caused tears, avoided conflict, started conflict, confronted conflict, confronted loudly, made enemies, gained supporters. Sometimes I’ve been right, but often I’ve been wrong.” 7. who’s the leader? understanding submission and supervision [149] “When I struggle in my relationships with those in authority over me, it’s often because I’m criticizing others when I should be critical of myself. I need to consider the log in my own eye before I point out the speck in another person’s eye. (Have you read that somewhere?)” 8. where do i get help? working with a team of leaders [171] “My greatest joy and most difficult task is building a team of other adults who will love students and disciple them…If you find, develop, and empower leaders, you’ ll be a valuable asset to your church and set yourself up for success in future youth ministry.” 9. can students handle responsibility? investing in student leaders [195] “If you allow students to lead, you’ ll have the privilege of encouraging, validating, and shap-ing their faith.” 10. are we doing the right thing? evaluating youth ministry programs [213] “You may be thinking, ‘Why evaluate? I’ve barely started my ministry?’ The earlier you get in the habit of performing regular check-ups, the healthier your ministry will be. You don’t want to wait for major decay to appear in your ministry before you act.” 11. how do i make changes? navigating the phases of change [235] “Change has a way of making or breaking youth ministry leaders, especially within their first two years…You have no easy, magic-formula, works-every-time procedure to imple-ment change, but you can take some definitive actions to minimize conflict.” 12. what do i do now? defining a realistic job description for your first two years [255] “If you don’t know what’s expected, you’re doomed to fail. Expectations exist, whether spoken or not, and you need to discover them to be effective and stay healthy.” epilogue [277] appendix a - youth ministry staff commitment form [279] appendix b - 10 frequently asked questions [281]

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Book SynopsisGod Is Looking For A Church To Bless God wants to transform his church into a people of power, joy, and peace Jim Cymbala reminds us that Christianity is only as strong as the local church and that God wants to bless our churches in ways we can't possibly imagine. It doesn't matter whether a church is alive and growing or barely surviving on life support. God has a plan for it. It doesn't matter whether a church is facing financial challenges, internal divisions, or strife among its leaders. God has a plan for it. God is able to deal with any problem a church will ever face--as long as his people earnestly seek him. As the pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle, Cymbala knows that God's blessing and grace is available to us today just as much as it was in the early church, when thousands of people became believers despite the fact that the church lacked everything we consider vital: church buildings, seminaries, printed materials, sound systems, choirs, and money. None of these things matteTable of ContentsPrologue: The Search 7 One: The Man Who Wouldn’t Listen 13 Two: Imitating God 41 Three: When Blessing Becomes a Curse 65 Four: Looking Up 89 Five: The Power of Tenderness 111 Six: The Last Half Hour 133

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Book SynopsisAn illuminating example of friendship as a vital way God answers our need for guidance, encouragement, affirmation, and correction.Most of the time, what we need to help us through the struggles in our lives is not the advice of an expert but the wisdom of a friend. Through this series of eloquent letters written to a life-long friend, author Eugene Peterson demonstrates friendship as a means to Christian maturity.The topics covered in this warm and highly personal correspondence are broad and varied, but one thing comes through with constancy and clarity: there is great value in a wise, experienced friend to help us see more clearly and to strengthen our growth in faith and godliness.

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Book SynopsisDiscover what it means to truly trust God, and how a deep relationship with him can bring life and joy into marriage. Renowned family counselor, seminar speaker, and author Gary Smalley gives insight into five truths that can transform marriage.Sharing openly from his own relationship with his wife, Norma, Gary shows why both husbands and wives need: An independent energy source to recharge their spiritual batteries Someone each can talk to about anything and at any time An understanding of their emotions and what they mean Reassurance that their trials have meaning A shared mission they can strive for together

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Book SynopsisWhat you need to know to control the emotion of anger and find healing for damaged relationships.Anger is something everyone struggles with--whether it''s our own emotion threatening to explode out of control or the anger of others that makes us feel intimidated and afraid. But when we understand where anger comes from, how it shows or doesn''t show, then we can do something about it. Either it will control us or we will control it, because Anger Is a Choice.Bestselling authors Tim LaHaye and Bob Phillips tell us what we need to know to control the emotion of anger. They not only examine it from beginning (its origins) to end (its effects), they also help us evaluate our own Irritability Quotient through the Anger Inventory and other exercises throughout the book.In learning how to handle conflicts and anger, we are enabled to heal damaged relationships and help others deal with their anger as well. We can make our lives more peaceful, rewarding, and meTable of ContentsAcknowledgments . . . .. . . . . .6 Introduction . . .. . . . . . .7 1. Anger---Everyone’s Problem . .. . . . . .11 2. Meet the Angry Family . . .. . . . .23 3. Anger and Body Language . .. . . . .30 4. Anger and Your Health . . .. . . . .40 5. Anger Inventory . . . . .. . . . .53 6. The Anatomy of Mental Problems . .. . . . . .57 7. Why Do I Get Angry? . . . .. . .74 8. Outside Help for Anger . . .. . . .85 9. Anger and Your Temperament . . . .. . . . .94 10. Is It Ever Right to Be Angry? . . . .. . . .107 11. Anger and Forgiveness . . . .. . . . .117 12. The Other Side of Forgiveness . . . . . .. . . . .133 13. How to Deal with Your Anger . . . .. . . .146 14. Help with Your Anger . . . . . . . . . . .171 Appendix 1.Anger in the Bible . . . . .. . . .175 Appendix 2.The Dynamic Life . . . .. . . . .187 Notes . . . .. . . . .193 Bibliography . . . .. . . . .196 Scripture Index . . . .. . . . .202 Subject Index . . . .. . .203

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Book SynopsisIn this fourth and final novel from Blackstock and LaHaye about the residents of Cedar Circle, Sylvia Bryan is diagnosed with breast cancer--and all the neighbors rally round to help her in fighting it.

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Book SynopsisThis is a touching chronicle of the loves, trials, and joys of a Michigan family in the first half of the 20th century.

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Book SynopsisA great Christian classic, this book describes the heroism and martyrdom of countless believers. It has been an unparalleled volume since its 16th-century origin.

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Book SynopsisFour views on God’s command to the Israelites to destroy the Canaanites and what that implies about continuity between the Old and New Testaments.

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Book SynopsisChurches have split and denominations have formed over the issue of church government. While many Christians can explain their church''s form of rule or defend it because of its tried and true traditions, few people understand their church''s administrative customs from a biblical perspective.Who Runs the Church? explores questions such as: What model for governing the church does the Bible provide, and is such a model given for practical or spiritual reasons? Is there room for different methods within Christianity? Or is there a right way of doing church? And, finally, how (and by whom) should the church be governed?Four predominant approaches to church government are presented by respected proponents: Episcopalianism - represented by Peter Toon Presbyterianism - represented by L. Roy Taylor Single-Elder Congregationalism - represented by Paige Patterson Plural-Elder Congregationalism - represented by Samue

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Book SynopsisThe Reformation restored the Scriptures to the people, but the job was only halfway finished. Today the church is awakening to the truth that ministry is not just the domain of clergy, but belongs to the entire body of Christ. God is moving her to complete her unfinished business of placing the ministry back in the hands of the people. Unfinished Business has played a pivotal part in helping the church reclaim ministry at the grassroots level. First published in 1990 as The New Reformation, it has become a classic resource for church life. Expanding on and updating the original material with fresh examples and references to eight key important movements, this new edition lays foundations for the church to move from: · Passive to active · Maintenance to mission · Clergy to people of God · Teacher/caregiver to equipping enabler Pointing us back to the church as an organism, not an institution, author Greg Ogden shows how each of us is called to help finish Trade Review'Ogden writes with clarity and passion....[he] makes a compelling case...[that] helps pastors shift ministry from passive to active, from maintenance to mission, from clergy to laypeople....' * enrichment *

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Are you tired of being all things to all people?Are you overwhelmed by busyness, guilt, and stress? Women Who Do Too Much has already helped thousands of high-pressured women depressurize. This new edition, streamlined and updated to address the needs of women today, shows you the women who does too much how to do less, live better, and accomplish what truly matters.By tackling the larger issues of goals and commitments first, Patricia Sprinkle helps you determine what God created you to do and helps you focus on doing just that. In addition, she gives tips to help you handle the demands of everyday life, plus quick, simple exercises to help you apply what you learn.

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Book SynopsisStories of fourteen outstanding Christians whose words and deeds set an example for believers today.This book recounts the life stories of outstanding Christians who inspire and challenge readers to live more godly lives. These fourteen men and womensome well known and others notcome from many parts of the world and from the 14th to the 20th centuries. These brief biographies highlight the events and special contributions each person has made to the church. Figures presented are Francis Asbury, Duncan Campbell, Oswald Chambers, Jonathan Goforth, Madame Guyon, Frances Ridly Havergal, John Hyde, Adoniram Judson, Dwight L. Moody, Evan Roberts, Girolamo Savonarola, Amanda Smith, John Smith, and Bishop William Taylor.

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Book SynopsisWhy does God feel so distant so often, and how do I bridge the gap? Does your hunger for God often seem more frustrating than satisfying? Have you sensed a disturbing disparity between God''s promises and life''s realities? Have you seen God''s promises work, but you''ve stumbled and want to believe again? Award-winning author Philip Yancey articulates the fundamental questions that confront us all: How do I relate to a God who is invisible when I''m never quite sure he''s there?Reaching for the Invisible God?offers deep, satisfying insights to the questions you’re sometimes afraid to ask. Honest and deeply personal, here is straight talk on Christian living for the reader who wants more than pat answers to life''s imponderables.Ultimately, Yancey shifts the focus from your questions to the One who offers himself in answer.A brilliant book. It is both profound and simple, the

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Book SynopsisA unique approach featuring fun-filled dates to help seriously dating and engaged couples strengthen their relationship. Couples will soon discover whether or not to go to the next level of commitment, and will spend quality time together now while preparing for a great marriage in the future.

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Book SynopsisWhen the diagnosis is serious, what makes the difference between hope and despair?As a practicing oncologist, Dr. Al Weir works daily with patients who receive bad news. A medical doctor with a pastor's heart, Dr. Weir knows from experience that it's the patient's focus, not the diagnosis, that indicates whether one will slip into despair and hopelessness or have the courage to live each day fully. Resilience of spirit can powerfully influence recovery and healing, and within our crisis, the choices we make are important. When Your Doctor Has Bad News offers no easy answers, no quick outs. But it does equip you to weather the storm you are facing and emerge whole again. Practical tips provide questions for you to ask your doctor and choices you can make to achieve your best chances for healing. Real-life stories show how others have coped with life-threatening illness, walked with God, and won. You can deepen communion with God in the midst of medical crisis. When Your Doctor Has Bad N

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Book SynopsisHe failed his family only once, long ago, but they never knew about it. Now pilot Connor Evans's life and marriage are going great, until Connor finds himself face-to-face with his past in the form of a seven-year-old boy.

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Book SynopsisAn exploration of what worship looks like from a biblical standpoint and why the topic of worship can be so contentious among Christians. Because worship is inherently theological--because it''s a manifestation of humanity''s response to God''s holiness--it''s important to take seriously how we worship and the roles it serves in personal displays of adoration and in community with other believers. Exploring the Worship Spectrum provides an overview, critique, and celebration of six prominent worship styles: Formal-Liturgical – represented by Paul Zahl Traditional Hymn-Based – represented by Harold Best Contemporary Music-Driven – represented by Joe Horness Charismatic – represented by Don Williams Blended – represented by Robert Webber Emerging – represented by Sally Morgenthaler This unique format allows those with a heart for worship to compareTrade ReviewSix different writers each present a chapter on their particular worship -- running the gamut from formal liturgical, to charismatic, to emerging worship. Each chapter is followed by short commentaries by the other writers providing a variety of perspectives on each worship style. What emerges is a fascinating conversation that doesn't try to convert you to one particular style of worship, but broadens your mind to the inherent worth of different types of worship. A good read. * YouthWorker Journal *

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Book SynopsisA brief, non-technical introduction, Understanding the Koran covers the Koran’s writing, its contents, how it’s used and viewed by Muslims, and differences and similarities between it and the Bible. Suggestions on how the Koran should or should not be used in conversations with Muslims are also included.

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Book SynopsisA freshand perhaps controversiallook at Jesus by one of Britain's most respected Christian authors. Who is the real Jesus? Do we remake him in our own image and then wonder why our spirituality is less than life-changing and exciting? Steve Chalkea high-profile visionary in the United Kingdom and an evangelical recognized not only by Christians but by the general public as wellbelieves that the real Jesus is deeply challenging. And each new generation must grapple with the question of who he is, because only through a constant study of Jesus are we able to discover God himself. The Lost Message of Jesus is written to stir thoughtful debate and pose fresh questions that will help create a deeper understanding of Jesus and his message. It is an encounter with the real Jesus of his worldnot the Jesus we try to mold to ours. Themes include: The Kingdom of Godshalomis available to everyone now, through Jesus The world outside your own church needs to hear of the depth of God's love and s

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Book SynopsisThis book provides small-group leaders with everything they need to know to help their small group of any kind. It's an operating system for small groups. You'll get the most out of your group, no matter your topic, from divorce recovery to marriage enrichment, from grief recovery to spiritual formation---grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.

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Book SynopsisSix Ways to Improve Your Balance as a Group Leader Leading a successful small group is like walking a tightrope. You traverse a taut, exciting line, balancing the dynamic tensions characteristic of every group. Drawing from the concept of “polarity management,” Bill Donahue and Russ Robinson help you understand and deal with six dynamic areas every group leader must manage in order to create genuine, transforming small group community. Your group is in for unprecedented connection and growth when you harness the interplay between • Truth and Life • Care and Discipleship • Friendship and Accountability • Kindness and Confrontation • Task and People • Openness and Intimacy Effective, life-giving small groups learn how to embrace both ends of each continuum. Walking the Small Group Tightrope will strengthen your sense of balance, help you gain confidence as a leader, and show you how to release the untapped creative and relational energy in you

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Book SynopsisThis book is for students of biblical Greek whose trouble understanding English grammar hampers their ability to learn Greek.Table of ContentsContents Acknowledgments 9 Introduction 11 1. Nouns: You Ain’t Nothing but a Noun Dog! (BBG ch. 5) 15 2. Inflection: Trouble Understanding Yoda You Have, Yes? Tne Nature of Inflected Languages. (BBG ch. 6) 21 3. The Article: The Rosetta Stone of the Greek Language, or The Article Is Your Friend, The Other One Is a Relative. (BBG ch. 7) 26 4. Adjective: What Color Is an Adjective? The Carnival Talkers of theGreek World. (BBG ch. 9) 31 5. Pronoun: A Noun That Has Lost Its Amateur Status. (BBG ch. 11) 37 6. Verbs:Verbs Have Things to Do. (BBG ch. 15) 41 7. Present: Keep Reading This: The Present Tense (BBG ch. 16) 47 8. Contraction: Contract Verbs Kill No One. (BBG ch. 17) 50 9. Passive Verbs: They Don’t Just Sit There. (BBG ch. 18) 54 10. Deponents: Verbs That Have a Memory Problem. (BBG ch. 18) 58 11. Future: When Are You Going to Read This? (BBG ch. 19) 62 12. Verbs Again: Principal Parts and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. (BBG ch. 20) 66 13. Aorist: You Have Already Read This Chapter, Haven’t You? (BBG ch. 22) 71 14. Perfect: That Which Is Perfect Has Come (But It Is Not This Chapter). (BBG ch. 25) 75 15. Participles: The Fiji Mermaid of the Greek World, or Why Adverbial Participles Don’t Wear a Watch. (BBG ch. 26) 79 16. Conditional Sentences: If I Were You, I Would Read This Chapter. (BBG ch. 31) 85 17. Infinitives: To Boldly Go Where No Man Has Gone Before: The World’s Most Famous Split Infinitive. (BBG ch. 32) 90 18. Imperatives: Read This Chapter! The Bosses of the Greek World. (BBG ch. 33) 96 Appendix 1: Glossary of Terms 100 Appendix 2: Tips for Remembering Vocabulary 107 Appendix 3: Sentence Diagramming for Greek Fun and Profit 109

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Book SynopsisA biblical and practical summary of the three main views among evangelicals on remarriage after divorce, including some of the practical implications for church life, author interactive responses to each chapter, and group discussion questions.Table of ContentsContents Abbreviations 7 Introduction: Are Cindy and Bob in Your Church? 11 Mark L. Strauss 1. No Remarriage after Divorce 19 Gordon J. Wenham Responses Wiliam A. Heth 43 Craig S. Keener 49 2. Remarriage for Adultery or Desertion 59 Wiliam A. Heth Responses Gordon J. Wenham 85 Craig S. Keener 91 3. Remarriage for Circumstances beyond Adultery or Desertion 103 Craig S. Keener Responses Gordon J. Wenham 121 Wiliam A. Heth 127 Conclusion: Three Key Questions for You to Answer 137 Mark L. Strauss Resources for Further Study 143 About the Contributors 145 Discussion and Reflection Questions 147 Scripture Index 151 Subject Index 157

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Book SynopsisIt’s just the two of you again and it’s time to renew your relationship. You can reconnect and reclaim that same spark, excitement, and creativity you experienced before you had kids through ten innovative, fun dates guaranteed to spice up your marriage.Trade Review'If you are drifting into the empty nest phase with little thought or planning, this may be the book to read. The authors provide guidance to help reestablish the friendship and oneness that characterized your relationship before heading down the parenting.' * Life Lines Magazine *

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Book SynopsisLibby Blue ran from her past--a ruthless father and a privileged life--and never looked back until Remington Walker came into her life. With a wall of lies between them, is the one great Truth they shared enough to unite them forever?

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Book SynopsisHow to make the thorns in your marriage come up roses.The big and little annoyances in your marriage are actually opportunities to deepen your love for each other. Relationship experts and award-winning authors Les and Leslie Parrott believe that your personal quirks and differences--where you squeeze the toothpaste tube, how you handle money--can actually help draw you together provided you handle them correctly.Turn your marriage''s prickly issues into opportunities to love each other more as you learn how to: build intimacy while respecting personal space tap the power of a positive marriage attitude replace boredom with fun, irritability with patience, busyness with time together, debt with a team approach to your finances . . . and much, much more. Plus--get an inside look at the very soul of your marriage, and how connecting with God can connect you to each other in ways you never dreamed.Table of ContentsContents Real-Life Problem Solvers 9 Workbook Exercises 11 Acknowledgments 13 Introduction: More Today Than Yesterday 17 1. Love Is Not Enough 21 A marriage survives and thrives when a couple learns to use problems to their advantage. 2. Why Every Marriage Has Everyday Problems 31 All your difficulties can be traced to one of five sources and knowing the source makes all the difference. 3. Tackle This Problem First and All Others Get Easier 53 A fine line separates an obstacle from an opportunity and it's discovered the instant a couple sees it with new eyes. 4. Who Said Sex Was a Problem? 71 The magic of marriage inevitably wanes if you don't recognize and accept the two sides of intimacy and sex (not to mention having a baby). 5. The Six Subtle Saboteurs of Every Marriage 93 Learn to defend your marriage against these sneak attacks and you will have built an impenetrable fortress of love. 6. How to Solve Any Problem in Five (Not-So-Easy) Steps 115 Discover the slumbering powers" of your marriage and use this proven plan for revolutionizing your love life. 7. Joining Your Spirits Like Never Before 139 Deep down in the soul of your marriage is a thirst for connection that can only be quenched when you drink from the ultimate source of love. 8. The Good That Comes from a Problem-Solving Marriage 167 Every day your love expands when you clearly see you've become more richly yourselves together than you could have ever managed alone. Appendix: Practical Help for a Marriage in Crisis 175 Notes 201 About the Authors 205

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Book SynopsisThis is a small booklet containing five assessments in the areas of traits, observation, experience, conviction, and ministry fit to help people understand their spiritual giftedness.Table of ContentsContents Overview 11 Introduction 13 Windows to Your Giftedness 15 Spiritual Gifts Assessments Experience Assessment 19 Traits Assessment 33 Convictions Assessment 47 Observation Assessment 51 Your Spiritual Gifts Summary 53 Ministry Assessment 55 Spiritual Gifts Descriptions and Contributions 59 Resources 63 Appendix: Observation Assessment Forms 67

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Book SynopsisJoin investigative journalist and bestselling author Lee Strobel as he embarks on his life-changing quest to solve the riddle of grace. Along the way, you''ll find the undeniable evidence of grace in the true stories of racists, addicts, and even murderers who have found new hope and purpose--all through the redemptive power of God''s amazing grace.In The Case for Grace, Lee offers an accessible explanation of the theology of God''s grace, shown through the incredible, dramatic, can''t-put-it-down stories of people whose lives were changed by the gift of grace--true accounts of people whose transformation and renewal are so radical that they seem to be best explained as the work of a gracious God.Lee draws upon his own journey from atheism to Christianity to explore the depth and breadth of God''s redeeming love for spiritually wayward people, traveling thousands of miles to capture the inspiring stories of everyday people whose valu

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Book SynopsisA careful and informed assessment of the emerging church by a respected author and scholarThe emerging church movement has generated a lot of excitement and exerts an astonishingly broad influence. Is it the wave of the future or a passing fancy? Who are the leaders and what are they saying? The time has come for a mature assessment. D. A. Carson not only gives those who may be unfamiliar with it a perceptive introduction to the emerging church movement, but also includes a skillful assessment of its theological views. Carson addresses some troubling weaknesses of the movement frankly and thoughtfully, while at the same time recognizing that it has important things to say to the rest of Christianity. The author strives to provide a perspective that is both honest and fair.Anyone interested in the future of the church in a rapidly changing world will find this an informative and stimulating read.D. A. Carson (Ph.D., University of Cambridge) is research professor of New Testament at TrinTable of ContentsCONTENTS Preface…9 1. The Emerging Church Profile…11 2. Emerging Church Strengths in Reading the Times…45 3. Emerging Church Analysis of Contemporary Culture…57 4. Personal Reflections on Postmodernism’s Contribution and Challenges…87 5. Emerging Church Critique of Postmodernism…125 6. Emerging Church Weakness Illustrated in Two Significant Books…157 7. Some Biblical Passages to Help Us in Our Evaluation…188 8. A Biblical Meditation on Truth and Experience…218 Scripture Index…237 Index of Names…241 Subject Index…245

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Book SynopsisDo you sometimes feel you have to check your intellect at the church door, leaving reason behind to embrace the Christian faith? Do you hunger for a full gospel that includes the mind as well as heart and Spirit? Full Gospel, Fractured Minds? challenges charismatic and Pentecostal believers to discover the power of a well-maintained minda mind on fireto match a heart on fire and to create a life that operates within the full counsel of God .Nañez shows how human reason helps us understand and interpret God's Word as well as defend the gospel. He shows what the Bible teaches about the mind, and explores the backgrounds of nineteenth-century and modern culture, anti-intellectualism, Pentecostal history and beliefs, and popular misconceptions about human intellect in relation to the Christian faith. Full Gospel, Fractured Minds? helps men and women practice a Christian faith that reflects the whole person and the full gospel. Rick Nañez calls Pentecostals and charismatics to seek a balaTable of ContentsContents Foreword by Stanley M. Horton 7 Acknowledgments 9 Introduction 13 PART 1 ANATOMY OF THE FRACTURED MIND 1. The Heart and the Head: What the Bible Teaches about the Mind 19 2. The Life of God in the Minds of Human Beings 28 3. The Apostle Paul and His Anti-Intellectual Verses 37 4. Matthew, Luke, and John on Matters of the Intellect 47 5. Early Pentecostals and the Life of the Mind 58 6. The Spirit-Filled Mind in Modern Times 73 7. Anti-Intellectual Roots in the Nineteenth Century 89 8. Four Giants of Nineteenth-Century Evangelicalism 99 9. Modern Culture, Anti-Intellectualism, and Pentecostal – Charismatic Beliefs 112 10. The Anatomy of Anti-Intellectualism 124 PART 2 AMMUNITION FOR THE FULL-GOSPEL MIND 11. The Fine Art of Thinking: Reason and Logic 135 12. The Molding of the Human Mind: Education 144 13. Defi ning the Faith: Theology 154 14. Defending the Truth: Apologetics 163 15. Thinking about Reality: Philosophy 172 16. Discovering the Realities of Nature: Science 184 17. Enlarging the Mind: Reading 196 18. Pondering the Great Minds of God 208 19. Challenges and Caveats 220 20. Conclusion and Practical Helps 227 Selected Bibliography 237 Scripture Index 253 Subject Index 257 Name Index 263

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Book SynopsisThis second edition of An Introduction to the Old Testament has been revised and updated to reflect recent advances in Old Testament scholarship. An upper-level introduction that includes callouts, charts, and graphs, it offers a solid understanding of three key issues: historical background, literary analysis, and theological message.

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Book SynopsisFrom #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes an emotional story of forgiveness and healing. In between a checkered past and a fairytale future, three people must find a way forward.Brad Cutler is a 28-year-old rising star at his New York ad agency, about to marry Laura James, the girl of his dreams. Anyone would agree he has it all: a great career, a beautiful and loving fiancée, and a fairy tale life ahead of him—until memories of his high school girlfriend, Emma, begin to torment him.Lost innocence and one very difficult choice flood his conscience, and he is no longer sure what the future will bring except for this: he must find his old love and make amends.Friends since childhood, Brad and Emma became a couple in high school—before their relationship was forever altered by a single decision. Haunted by the past and confused about the future, Brad turns to God seeking forgiveness and redemption f

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Book SynopsisThe Above the Line Series follows two dedicated Hollywood producers as they seek to transform the culture through the power of film. In Take Four, after Chase Ryan returns to his family and a job in his hometown, filmmakers Keith Ellison and Dayne Matthews finally ink a deal to have the nation''s top young actor star in their current film. But at the same time, the actor takes a very public fall that threatens his reputation among his fan base. Meanwhile, healing happens for Andi Ellison in her relationship with God, her family, and those she loves, but is it too late? The new producers find they must truly act as missionaries in order to help save the film, their families, and the young movie star. Breakthroughs take place that the public will never know about, as the possibility of saving the world through film is finally a very real possibility.Part of New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury''s beloved Baxter series that begins with Redemption, Trade ReviewAndi Ellison is struggling with the choice of whether or not to keep her baby. She thought God was telling her to give it up for adoption. But ever since the ultrasound, when she finds out it’s a boy, he seems more of a reality, and it’s harder to imagine giving him up. Bailey Flanigan is trying out for a lead role in Keth Ellison’s (Andi’s father) newest Hollywood film, Unlocked, opposite teen star Brandon Paul. Andi continues her internal battle, while Bailey tries to concentrate on her movie role despite the way Cody Coleman has been increasingly avoiding her. This fourth book in the “Above the Line” series concludes this chapter in the lives of the Ellison family and is a great look into the emotional journey of pregnant teens and what it takes to give up a baby for adoption, as well as to trust in God that one is doing the right thing. * CBA Retailers & Retailing *Concluding Kingsbury's series featuring former missionaries–turned–film producers Chase Ryan and Keith Ellison (Take Three), this entry finds Chase returning to his hometown, while Keith hooks up with filmmaker Dayne Matthews. The two are ready to celebrate their success after signing one of Hollywood's top stars for their next project when their leading man is involved in a public scandal. Suddenly it is up to Keith and Dayne to save their own reputations and that of their star. VERDICT Kingsbury has been dubbed the 'Queen of CF' by Time magazine for good reason. Her emotionally charged novels often contain a strong romantic component and feature Christians at odds with their everyday world. This title is no exception. Recommend this one to readers who enjoy well-drawn characters and contemporary settings. * Library Journal *

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Book SynopsisArguing from Scripture and history, Dr. Boyd makes a compelling case that whenever the church gets too close to any political or national ideology, it is disastrous for the church and harmful to society.

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Book SynopsisFOR DISTRIBUTION OUTSIDE THE USA. A winsome engagement with three aspects of Jesus that draws on biblical reference, personal experience and people’s needs.

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Book Synopsis51 Creative Ideas for Marriage Mentors offers an idea box of activities and innovative ways to deepen relationships between mentoring couples.It can be used in any of the three areas of the marriage mentoring triad: Preparing--mentoring engaged and newlywed couples Maximizing--mentoring couples from good to great Restoring--mentoring couples in distress Creative ideas for marriage mentors are grouped into these three areas. There is also an entire section of ideas appropriate for mentoring any couple. With activities that vary from quickly implemented suggestions to more involved interactions, this easy-to-use reference will help alleviate the stress of couples overwhelmed by mentoring . . . and take experienced mentors to a whole new level.Designed to work on its own or in tandem with the Parrotts'' other marriage mentoring resources, 51 Creative Ideas for Marriage Mentors will inspire fresh ideas, incTable of ContentsContents Acknowledgments 11 Introduction: Getting Big Results from This Little Book 13 Part One Ideas for Mentoring Any Couple 1. Practice the Thirty-Second Rule..... 21 2. Curb Marriage Gossip..... 22 3. Place a Photo of Your Mentoree Couple in Your Home..... 24 4. Keep Contact Information Handy..... 25 5. Send a Word of Encouragement..... 26 6. Ask the One Question That Could Change Their Marriage..... 27 7. Pass Along a Helpful Article or Email..... 29 8. Teach the Single Most Powerful Marriage Principle..... 30 9. Let Them Know about a Local Marriage Seminar..... 32 10. Be Aware of “What’s On”..... 34 11. Open the Church Doors..... 35 12. Practice Old-Fashioned Hospitality..... 36 13. Be One of the First to Send a Christmas Greeting..... 37 14. Double Your Serve..... 38 15. Remember Their Anniversary..... 40 Your Additional Ideas for Mentoring Any Couple . 41 Part Two Ideas for Mentoring Engaged and Newlywed Couples 16. Identify Their Top Ten Needs..... 45 17. Help Them Sink Their Roots Down Deep..... 47 18. Cautiously Connect with Your Mentorees’ Parents..... 49 19. Do Some Coupon Cutting..... 51 20. Consider a Babysitting Opportunity..... 52 21. Give the In-Law Inventory..... 53 22. Make a Splash with a Low-Cost Gift..... 55 23. Chart Their Spiritual Journey..... 56 24. Make Their First Noel One to Remember..... 58 25. Explore Their Roles..... 59 26. Note the Little Things..... 60 27. Envision Their Golden Anniversary..... 62 Your Additional Ideas for Mentoring Engaged and Newlywed Couples..... 63 Part Three Ideas for Mentoring Couples Moving from Good to Great 28. Dream Big..... 67 29. Find Inspiration Around You..... 69 30. Turn the Tables..... 71 31. More Time or More Money?..... 73 32. The Most Influential Person..... 75 33. Homeward Bound..... 76 34. “I Love You More Than.....”..... 77 35. Decisions, Decisions!..... 78 36. Monkey See, Monkey Do..... 79 37. Start a Date Club..... 80 38. Pay Now, Play Later..... 82 39. The Big Question..... 84 Your Additional Ideas for Mentoring Couples Moving from Good to Great..... 85 Part Four Ideas for Mentoring Couples in Distress 40. Take Inventory..... 89 41. Steer Clear of the Number-One Marriage Problem..... 91 42. Turn Murphy’s Law on Its Ear..... 93 43. What Would You Miss?..... 95 44. Reveal the Two Most Overlooked “Romantic” Phrases..... 97 45. Give Them a Reputation to Uphold..... 98 46. The Couples- Communication Strengths Finder..... 99 47. Explore the Lesson of an Old Farm Couple ...... 101 48. Avoid the Blame Game..... 103 49. Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda..... 105 50. What’s Your Favorite?..... 107 51. What Have You Been Looking For?..... 109 Your Additional Ideas for Mentoring Couples in Distress..... 112 Conclusion: Where Do We Go from Here?..... 115 Notes..... 117

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Book SynopsisWhen disaster strikes, when grief shatters us---what are we to make of prayer? Many of us have experienced some amazing answers, but what about when God seems to turn a deaf ear? Drawing from his own crushing experience, Jerry Sittser affirms the greatness of God’s love in the face of unanswered prayer.

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Book SynopsisMy six-year-old fusses with her hair for hours. Is this normal? Yesterday my seventh grader was all sunshine. Today she''s wearing black and won''t leave her room. I''m worried my teenager may have an eating disorder.In today''s complex world, parenting a girl is harder than ever. It takes more than love. It takes insight into the things that make your daughter tick as she grows from childhood to young adulthood.Drawing on the authors'' fifty-plus years of combined counseling experience, Raising Girls takes you inside the mind and soul of your girl. You''ll obtain seasoned, expert insights on Your daughter''s different stages of development from ages zero to nineteen How you can effectively relate to her at each stage What is normal behavior, what isn''t, and when and how to intervene How to deal with self-destructive behavior such as eating disorders, cutting, or experimentation with alcohol . . . and much more<

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Book SynopsisThree approaches to questions about the theological connection between the Old and New Testaments.The relationship between the Testaments is not as simple and straightforward as it sometimes appears. When New Testament authors appeal to Old Testament texts to support their arguments, what is the relationship between their meanings and what was originally intended by their Old Testament forebears? Leading biblical scholars Walter Kaiser, Darrel Bock, and Peter Enns present their answers to questions about the use of the Old Testament in the New Testament, addressing elements such as: Divine and human authorial intent. Context of passages. Historical and cultural considerations. The theological grounds for different interpretive methods. Each author applies his framework to specific texts so that readers can see how their methods work out in practice. Each contributor also receives a thorough critique from

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Book SynopsisJesus is the most influential person who ever lived. But for many of us, he has ceased to be a real person. We’ve sanitised him with pious jargon, framed him in stained glass, and reduced him to a religious puppet who floats through biblical landscapes dispensing Christian cliches and nice advice. It’s time for a fresh look at the man this book describes as “a square peg in a society of round holes.” Whether you’re new to Jesus or just want to rediscover him with fresh eyes, this is the book for you. No dry theological treatise, it’s written in an engaging, sometimes even humorous, style. In short, readable chapters, you’ll get a tour of important background info and fascinating history that will bring to life the era in which Jesus lived. Then you’ll read about his birth, his adult ministry and teaching, and the crucial last week of his life on earth. You’ll catch a glimpse of the impact and excitement as news of Jesus spread arTrade Review'...Peter Downey and Ben Shaw bring Jesus to life in a way we seldom encounter. With an engaging -- and sometimes humorous -- delivery, they will take the reader on a tour of places as well as a journey of events that build a framework from which one can catch a glimpse of who Jesus was and is. Featuring short chapters, the book could easily be adapted for use in a group setting...' * Youthworker Journal *

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