Search results for ""Inter-Varsity Press""

Imagine Imagine someone with a mind so healthy that he doesn’t need to see a psychiatrist. Ever. Yet that person runs the gauntlet of taunting, mockery and false accusations. People turn against him. Friends disown and desert him. He stands alone. Amazingly, two thousand years after his death, the taunts still fly. Films and books appear with fresh accusations and oh-so-convincing arguments. How can this man be discredited and silenced for once and for all? More to the point, can he? As psychiatrists, we need to speak up. Enough is enough. Shadow us as we examine what we believe to be the most fascinating mind in all of history. Dare you imagine a different reality? And what will this mean in practice? Jesus had greater influence than any other person who ever lived. Yet atheistic detractors often portray him as insane or deranged. Claims gather momentum. Often they are left unchallenged. Is there any basis for such claims? The authors, respected psychiatrists, consider Jesus's words, actions and teaching, and use fascinating insights from psychiatry to make an assessment. We need confidence to weigh up the evidence and reach robust conclusions. The authors enable us to articulate a strong defence of Jesus's mental health. They help us dispel doubts, affirm our faith and present a captivating portrait of Jesus. 'An important contribution to the evidence that Jesus is, as he claims to be, the incarnate Son of God. I am sure it will help to open many readers’ eyes to the wonder of the person of Christ, and refresh and renew their faith and strengthen their confidence in him.’ Professor John Lennox, Professor of Mathematics Emeritus, University of Oxford, and Fellow in Mathematics & the Philosophy of Science, Green Templeton College, Oxford

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Given the foundational importance of circumcision in the OT and its prevalence in numerous debates in the NT, it is surprising that so little detailed work has been done on establishing a biblical theology of circumcision. This lack is even more surprising given that circumcision forms the background for some of the most hotly contested writings of the apostle Paul. The biblical material on circumcision seems to present vastly different and even apparently contradictory pictures of what circumcision means. The two key biblical concepts of righteousness and faith are closely linked to circumcision in debates carried on in Paul’s letters and the early church. Karl Deenick shows that these two concepts are central to both the NT understanding and the developing OT understanding of circumcision. They are held together by the unfolding promise of a blameless 'seed of Abraham' through whose sacrifice the promised righteousness will finally come — a righteousness which will be enjoyed by those who trust in God's promise. Physical circumcision signified the goal of walking blamelessly before Yahweh, but it also represented the hope that Yahweh would provide a blameless seed through whom he would bring about that blamelessness in those who were not blameless/righteous. Circumcision of the heart is the appropriation of that promise by faith. It is the willing allegiance to Yahweh and the trust that Yahweh both forgives and makes righteous through the promised seed of Abraham.

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Among the Gospels, John's is unique. Its structure incorporates long conversations and extended debates, and much of its content is not found elsewhere. Jesus' relationship to the Father and his teaching on the Holy Spirit are given special prominence. Ultimately, faith, believing in Jesus, is at the centre - with signs highlighted to provoke faith and stories of those who responded to Jesus as examples of faith. Colin Kruse shows how the Fourth Gospel weaves its themes of belief and unbelief into its rich Christology. This exegetical commentary on the Gospel of John is part of the Tyndale New Testament Commentaries series designed to help the reader of the Bible understand what the text says and what it means.

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We cannot choreograph our own death, but we can die well. This is a book for those who are facing death. It is also for their relatives, friends and carers. John Wyatt looks at recent trends in dying. He examines the 'art of dying', a Christian tradition from the past. We see opportunities for dying well and faithfully, real-world examples of personal growth and instances of reconciliation and personal healing in relationships. On the other hand, there are also challenges to face: the fears and temptations that dying can bring. We learn from Jesus' example as we focus on his words from the cross. The wonderful news is that we can look forward to 'a sure and steadfast hope', the amazing hope of resurrection and its implications for our lives today.

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Jesus sends us into the world just as God the Father sent him - and yet Christians continue to disagree on what this involves. Some believe that the focus of Christian mission is evangelizing and 'saving souls'. Others emphasize global justice issues or relief and development work. Is either view correct on its own? John Stott's classic volume, first published forty years ago, presents an enduring view of Christian mission that is just as needed today. Newly updated and expanded by Christopher J. H. Wright, Christian Mission in the Modern World provides a biblically based approach to mission that addresses both spiritual and physical needs. With his trademark clarity and conviction, Stott illuminates how the Great Commission itself not only assumes the proclamation that makes disciples, but also teaches obedience to the Great Commandment of love and service. Wright has expertly updated the original book and demonstrates the continuing relevance of Stott's prescient thinking. This balanced approach to mission encourages current and future Christians to embrace an unconflicted and holistic model of ministry.

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What we know and what we do are crucial, but so too is who we are. God wants to shape our hearts. The gospel is God's means of transforming our hearts. It produces love, godly fear, joy, peace, humility, confidence, thankfulness, contentment and hope. With gospel surgery, we can 'cultivate life on the inside'. Yes, it's radical and often painful, but the author speaks with the heart of a pastor as well as the mind of a 'heart surgeon'. He speaks from a position of humility and personal experience. This is a liberating book that enables us to be all we are meant to be in Christ. Its teaching will change your life.

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Our world is multicultural, multi-religious, multi-philosophical. It ranges from fundamental monotheism to do-it-yourself spirituality to strident atheism. How can Christians authentically and effectively present the message of Jesus the Messiah in such a pluralistic and often relativistic context? When the apostle Paul visited Athens, he found an equally multicultural and multi-religious setting. Religious practices were wide and varied, with the Roman cult of emperor worship being the most prominent. Many also frequented the temples of the traditional Greek pantheon and participated in the secret rituals of the Mystery Religions. In this stimulating and accessible study, Paul Copan and Kenneth Litwak show how Paul's speech to the Athenians in Acts 17 provides a practical model for today. The authors encourage Christians to 'be more biblically informed, culturally astute, and creatively engaged to winsomely challenge the idols of our time and to point contemporary Athenians beyond "an unknown God" to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ'.

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'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.' 'Thy word is a lamp to my feet.' 'Search me, O God, and know my heart!' Such phrases leap to mind each time a Christian lifts his heart to God. For many, in fact, the Psalms are the richest part of the Old Testament. Derek Kidner provides a fresh and penetrating guide to Psalms 1 - 72. He analyses each psalm in depth, comments on interpretative questions and brings out the universal relevance of the texts. He also gives special help on the psalmists' cries for vengeance. Together with its companion volume (Psalms 73 - 150), both of which were formerly part of the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries series, this introduction and commentary will inspire and deepen personal worship.

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Today we have more information, more lifestyle choices, more options than ever before. But in spite of all this, people are still searching for truth â€" for a way to make sense of their questions, and of all the ups and downs of life. The questions don't stop when we become Christians. Yet we can find real truth in Jesus Christ, and real wisdom, security and hope. These seven studies help us go deeper into the truth we are offered in Jesus Christ, and to root our lives in it. Because Jesus offers us himself, a reality that satisfies not only our intellectual curiosity, but also the deepest longings of our hearts. He offers us true security and sure hope for the future. He reshapes our thoughts, our life, our identity and our purpose. Real truth is found in Jesus Christ, and knowing him changes everything. This title is brought to you by Keswick Ministries. Find out more at https://www.keswickministries.org

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For theology, religion and philosophy students. Would you like an evangelical overview of the influence of theological figures including Moltmann, Hick and Cupitt? After reading you'll have a clearer understanding of the works of such thinkers as Hick and Cupitt from an evangelic perspective. Getting Your Bearing' is a book in which students of theology, religion and philosophy soon encounter challenging and influential figures such as Moltmann, Pannenberg, Hick, Cupitt and Milbank. These essays offer keys for understanding and engaging with such thinkers from an evangelical perspective.

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Daily Bible study can be difficult to sustain, but it is essential to spiritual growth. God has given us his Word as a vital means of encountering him. Search the Scriptures offers guidance for daily Bible study and aims to make it a delight as well as a source of strength. Using a question-and-answer approach, it helps you discover God's truth for yourself. Its built-in flexibility and clear presentation allow you to adapt the course to your own needs. The studies are undated so you can set your own pace working through them. - Section-by-section coverage of the entire Bible - Concise introductions to each book of the Bible as you meet it - Meaning and application for each daily passage Search the Scriptures has been used and appreciated by many thousands of readers for over half a century. This new edition, based on the New International Version (NIV) Bible, has been completely reset in a fresh, accessible format. With its daily support, your own search of the Scriptures can become a delight and a source of strength.

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In The Work of Christ Robert Letham shapes his discussion around the threefold office of Christ as prophet, priest and king. Within this framework he explores the issues of Christ and the Word of God, the nature and theories of the atonement, and the cosmic and corporate dimensions of the mediatorial kingship of Christ. At crucial points the viewpoints of significant Christian thinkers, from the church fathers to contemporary theologians and biblical scholars, are introduced and brought into the conversation. Lucidly written and clearly presented, this is a soundly orthodox and engaging presentation of what Christ has done. It is a welcome starting point for students of theology.

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Since the time of the Reformation, considerable attention has been given to the theme of justification in the thought of the apostle Paul. The ground breaking work of E. P. Sanders in 'Paul and Palestinian Judaism' (1977) introduced the 'new perspective on Paul', provoking an ongoing debate which is now dominated by major protagonists. Foundational theological issues are at stake. In this new study, Mark Seifrid offers a comprehensive analysis of Paul's understanding of justification, in the light of important themes including the righteousness of God, the Old Testament law, faith and the destiny of Israel. A detailed examination of the theme in the epistle to the Romans is followed by a survey of the entire Pauline corpus. The analysis incorporates a critical assessment of the 'new perspective', challenging its most basic assumptions; an evaluation of the contribution of recent German scholarship; and a reaffirmation of the 'Christ-centred' theology of the Reformers. In this wide-ranging exposition of the biblical message of justification, Dr Seifrid provides a fresh, balanced reworking of Pauline theology.

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A well-researched and scholarly examination of the relationship between Protestant missions and imperialism in the past 200 years.

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Is it really possible to talk to God? Does he listen to us? How do we know what to say? Will it make any difference if we pray? Prayer is central to Christian faith and life, and such questions are fundamental. While much teaching on prayer addresses practical issues and is experience-orientated, Graeme Goldsworthy's conviction is that good practice comes from a foundation of good biblical understanding. Using a biblical-theological approach, he examines the principles that lie behind particular texts in Scripture, and maps out the 'progress' of prayer from Genesis to Revelation. He explains the basis for prayer, its role in our fellowship with God, and what is involved in Christian prayer. Above all, his desire is to encourage Christians in their praying, through a better understanding of, and reflection on, the 'big story' of the whole Bible.

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An appeal for lay people, students and ministers to engage in theological reflection, with practical advice provided.

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When death breaks into our lives, the great questions of human existence and destiny confront us. What is life? What is death? Is there an afterlife? Often it is only in the midst of tragedy that these issues are given much attention - but the basic orientation of Christianity is towards heavenly hope. Bruce Milne takes us on a journey through the biblical teaching about the awesome realities of heaven and hell - destinies central to our understanding of God and humanity. He begins with an examination of some key Old Testament texts, then moves on to the teaching of Jesus, and finally surveys other relevant New Testament passages. Debate continues about this area of Christian belief, but the life to come is a biblical 'fact of life', and the eternal God assures us, repeatedly and clearly, that he will meet us all in eternity.

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Dewi Hughes' conviction is that the suffering through poverty of such a vast number of people in our day is overwhelmingly the result of the misuse of power by others. Hence, the underlying theme of this wide-ranging, challenging study is that poverty has to do with the way in which we human beings use and abuse the power God gave us when he created us.

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The book of Proverbs is the Bible's how-to manual. The proverbs teach us how to be successful and prosperous in our work, our dealings with family and friends, and our relationship with God. The direction and guidance they give us is practical, concrete, reasonable and fruitful. By reading Proverbs we discover the vital importance of learning to live wisely. 10 studies for individuals or groups. This revised Lifebuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra "Now or Later" section in each study.

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A web of criss-crossing influences covers our planet, producing hybrids like Tandoori pizzas and ninja ballets, Silicon valleys in Bangalore and Zen monasteries in California. This mixing of cultures is also fraught with tension and conflict. Far from blending and mingling together, new barriers are emerging between peoples. And at the heart of this conflict is religious belief. In this fascinating and ground-breaking study, Vinoth Ramachandra examines the complex interaction of four major world faiths. He looks at the distinctiveness of the Christian message in a world of many faiths, and asks if a truly tolerant and pluralistic society can ever emerge from a rejection of universal truth claims.

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Does believing in the Trinity make any difference in real life? These seven studies will help you grow in your understanding of the inexhaustible riches of the Trinity. Find out why the Trinity is central to our beliefs and fundamental to the working out of our faith. Learn to worship him more fully, reflect his image more clearly, and experience his transforming power in your life. Learn to better know the Father, follow the Son, and walk in the Spirit. Because the Trinity is at the heart of Christian faith and life. This title is brought to you by Keswick Ministries. Find out more at https://www.keswickministries.org

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Let's be honest: there are gaps everywhere in life - the gap between who we are and who we would like to be; the gap between the Christianity we profess and the Christianity we practise; the gap between us and those we love; the gap between the world as it is and the world as it should be. We feel disconnected from God, from one another and from ourselves. How do we close those gaps? How is God working to make us whole? This book brings the gospel to bear on the gaps in our lives. Drawing on a highly unusual lifetime's experience living out the Christian faith in more than twenty countries, Graham Hooper shows how we can be made whole in the struggles and joys of everyday life - work and relationships, success and failure, service and weakness.

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Veteran scholar-missionaries Robert L. Plummer and John Mark Terry edit this collection of entry points into the missionary methods of the Apostle Paul. With contributions from Michael Bird, Eckhard Schnabel and Craig Keener, this volume examines Paul's missionary methods from the perspective of Paul's activities in the first century and the perspective of his ongoing impact on missions today. The first part of the book examines Paul's environment, activity and teaching. The second portion investigates the application of Paul's methods and principles to modern missionary work. The occasion for this book is the centennial of Roland Allen's Missionary Methods: Saint Paul's or Ours? a classic in the field which Paul's Missionary Methods enthusiastically engages with.

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* What does the Bible say about the future?* What evidence do I have that this is true?* If my beliefs influence my actions, then what difference does the Bible’s teaching make in my life? There is something wrong with our world. Everyone knows that - clearly, things shouldn’t be the way they are. The Bible makes many claims about the future, a future in which we can have real hope. Michael Ots helps us unpack these claims, showing why real and radical hope doesn’t have to be beyond our grasp.

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Too often, valuable New Testament scholarship never finds its way to the preacher's or pastor's study because it is presented in a form that is not practically digestible in the time available for sermon preparation. The motivation for this volume is the desire to bridge the gap between the work of evangelical scholars in universities and colleges and the world of the busy preacher and Bible teacher. Specifically, it offers a theological introduction to the New Testament book of Hebrews, by way of a set of expositions of some significant themes and difficult questions, by some well-known scholars. Topics covered are: the new covenant (Peter O'Brien); the word of God (Jonathan Griffiths); the priesthood of Christ (Richard Gaffin, Jr); the tabernacle (David Gooding); warning and assurance (Thomas Schreiner); access and arrival (Peter Walker); perfection (David Peterson); and suffering (Bruce Winter). These studies are accessible to all serious students of the Bible. The contributors share the conviction that theological research is ultimately only valuable insofar as it aids the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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The face of anorexia is not a glossy model in a perfume ad. It's a starving animal, circling the empty cupboards, blank-eyed and vacant. It's a face frozen in a rictus grin, mouthing lies. 'I'm fine,' it says. 'Everything is under control.' 'I have always felt hungry,’ says Emma Scrivener. ‘Not just for food, but for everything: from money to recognition. I’m a human chasm, a vortex of insatiable longing.’ Rescued from a disorder that nearly killed her, Emma is now passionate about warning others about the dark and hidden world she inhabited for too long. Harrowing, heart-breaking, human and humourous, this book will grip you from start to finish.

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In recent years, the publication of best-selling books by Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Sam Harris and Christopher Hitchens has given rise to the New Atheism. For the New Atheists, belief in God is a delusion because it is based on faith rather than evidence, and because science has removed the need for God; and it is a dangerous delusion because it is responsible for much of the suffering throughout the world. These characteristics distinguish New Atheism from other forms of atheism. Drawing on recent work in the philosophy of religion, David Glass addresses the issues raised by the New Atheists, responds to their objections, and presents a positive case for Christian theism. He shows that the New Atheists fail to engage seriously with the best theistic arguments, and that science, far from undermining belief in God, provides some of the best reasons for such belief. His valuable analysis also explores how faith and reason interact; miracles; the relationship between religion, morality and evil; the possibility of revelation from God; and the historical value of the Gospels and the reality of the resurrection of Jesus.

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Volatile. Cowardly. Slow on the uptake. As a follower of Jesus, Peter didn't have a lot going for him. Yet he became a passionate preacher and an extraordinary leader, and the rock on which Christ built his church. Bishop Ken Clarke believes that Jesus works the same kind of transformation in his followers today. In this warm-hearted and deeply encouraging book, he draws out lessons from Peter's life for us today. He equips enthusiastic disciples and growing leaders to keep their focus, handle failure and fulfil their potential in God's service.

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Rhonda Watson models how to remember God during times of physical suffering. Packed full of poetry, songs and Bible quotes, this beautiful devotional guide helps readers face failing physical powers with honesty, and focus on the character of God, the source of our hope. 'My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you.' Diagnosed in 2008 with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Rhonda Watson is rapidly losing her speech, mobility and other physical functions. In desperation she turned to the only true source of hope and comfort - God. This honest and powerful book helps fellow-sufferers recall in times of trouble the character of God - who walks with us along the path of suffering and holds us in our pain. Choosing not to focus on her own debilitating condition, Rhonda provides devotions and reflections which have helped her, and will encourage the reader to hold on to trust in Jesus. With space for journaling, this book is ideal for anyone coping with disability and failing physical powers.

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What makes some preaching gripping - unforgettable even? What can we learn from the best preachers? How can we appreciate great preaching, often at the click of a mouse, without devaluing the role of the local church minister? 'Without creating a guru mentality, I focus on one positive aspect from each preacher and offer hints on how other preachers might emulate them.' says author Simon Vibert. He also looks at the Bible's own take on good preaching, and focuses on the exemplary models of Jesus and Paul. This is not a how-to manual, nor a biblical theology of preaching, nor even a critique of the subjects. Rather, it is a focus on modern-day practitioners, from whom all preachers can form a composite picture of excellence, and from whom all preachers would do well to learn.

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After this, I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no-one could count ... And they cried out in a loud voice: "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb"' (Revelation 7:10). Christopher Wright uses this verse as a lens through which he surveys the Bible's teaching on 'salvation'. Every phrase in the verse resonates with significant themes in the Old and New Testaments, all of which combine to show that the Bible tells the story of God's salvation very broadly indeed, in relation to the character and purposes of God, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the redemption of all creation, the joy of Christian experience and the responsibility of Christian mission. This clear, deep and warm-hearted exposition enriches our grasp of the Bible's multi-faceted teaching about salvation.

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As a firefighter, Mitch (Keith Mitchell) is trained to snatch people from flames. As a Christian, he sees sin as a real fire to be fought in people's lives - hence the title: snatched from the fire. Don't read this book if you want religion, answers to life's great mysteries or the secret of winning the lottery. Do read it if you are willing to lose your prejudice and meet someone more important than the three above put together - Jesus. Meeting Jesus results in real living, life with freedom and purpose. And you'll find a happy eternity thrown in as well.

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If asked how Matthew's Gospel differs from Luke's, or what aspects of Jesus' personhood and ministry the Gospel of Mark focuses on compared with those of John, how would you answer? In Discovering Jesus, T. Desmond Alexander helps readers understand how each Gospel account is uniquely written and why all four Gospels are important in their different, but complementary pictures of the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Alexander shows how the Gospels display Jesus as the Son of David who establishes the kingdom of God, the Son of God who suffers to ransom others, the Saviour of the world who seeks the lost, and the Lamb of God who brings eternal life through a new exodus. Each chapter ends with discussion questions for individual or group study.

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Guidance and wisdom for maintaining good practice and avoiding temptation in preaching. With insight and wisdom, Derek Tidball reviews a selection of idols to which preachers are particularly vulnerable, under four headings: the self, the age, the task and the ministry. His aim is not to condemn, but to alert.

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When someone uses the word 'church', what comes into your mind - A building where a congregation meets - A room inside such a building - The main Sunday meeting - A denomination? Graham Beynon shows that when the Bible talks about 'church', it is always only referring to people, and a particular sort of people at that. From a range of key passages in the New Testament, he explains what church is, what it is for, how it is to work, how it is to be led, and what it means to belong to God's new community in Christ. Many Christians are hard-pushed to give good answers to these questions. This clear, simple, biblical and practical guide will deepen your understanding and enrich your experience of church. Few things could be more important for Christians than that.'

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The book of Joshua presents a number of interpretative problems. On the basis of literary studies and archaeology, some have claimed that the book is a product of a much later age than the one it portrays and does not reflect actual events. Another important issue is how it should be read as Christian Scripture, given that it describes at least a partial annihilation of indigenous people groups. Related to this today is the ongoing struggle over essentially the same piece of land that is described in Joshua. To address these and other issues, Pekka Pitkänen reads Joshua in its Ancient Near Eastern context. He makes extensive comparisons with relevant contemporary literature and includes an archaeological survey of all places mentioned in the Masoretic text. He argues that Joshua helps conclude the pentateuchal tradition and is best understood as a conquest document originating from the Late Bronze-Early Iron Age that helps define Israelite identity in Yahwistic terms and promulgates Yahwism in Israel as the exclusive religious ideology. In application, he engages with genocide studies and reflects on theodicy and the use and abuse of power.

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The Gospel of Mark is widely regarded today as the first Gospel to be written. Until recent decades, its fast-paced, seemingly straightforward presentation led most readers to overlook its subtle theological sophistication. Probing its depths, Ronald Kernaghan invites readers into a fascinating exploration of Mark's Gospel as a parable, an open-ended story that invites us on a lifelong journey of discipleship. Throughout, Kernaghan explains what the gospel meant to its original hearers and its application for us today.

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Diversity of life. Water resources. Global climate change. Cities and global environmental issues. We all know being a Christian involves ethical responsibility. But what exactly are our environmental obligations? This unique volume edited by Wheaton professors Noah J. Toly and Daniel I. Block teams up scientists with biblical scholars to help us discern just that question. What does the Lord require of us? Here you'll find informed essays from Christian teachers in a variety of fields, ranging from New Testament, Old Testament, Christian theology and ethics to geology, biology, atmospheric physics and environmental science. Their biblical insight combined with scientific expertise will provide you with a deeper understanding and clear guidance on the most important environmental issues facing us today. Contributors: M. Daniel Carroll R., Fred van Dyke, Michael Guebert, David Gushee, Sir John Houghton, Douglas J. Moo, David Toshio Tsumura and Christopher J. H. Wright

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For many the resurrection is a nice thing to believe, the 'happy' ending to the gospel, as though after the darkness of the cross Spielberg was brought in to do the finish. But 'Lifted' shows that it's far more. The resurrection has overwhelmingly positive implications for our daily lives. Through it we can have real assurance of forgiveness and salvation. We are raised and empowered to live new, transformed lives. We have hope after death for our bodies and this physical world. We see the urgency of reaching all nations with the message of the risen Jesus. Life is now different: we have been lifted. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just for Easter. It's for all of life.

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Why think about the future? After all, 'what will happen will happen', it only leads to controversy and argument, and it's irrelevant to life now. However, Graham Beynon shows that the real danger is that we don't think about the future. God in his Word puts last things first - the whole gospel is shaped around what is to come. God has a plan for where he is taking this world, and his people are called to live in the light of that future. Christians are to be those who look back - to the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. All that happened then shapes our life now. However, they are also to look forward - at what God will do in finishing his plans for his creation through Jesus. The Bible teaches Christians to store up treasure in heaven; to wait faithfully for the return of their Master; to think of this world as temporary and passing; and to think of the world to come as their inheritance. Graham Beynon takes a fresh look at this teaching and shows how what is to come should shape practical Christian living now, with regard to godliness, handling of money, service of others, speaking about Jesus, faithfulness to him, response to hardship, and more.

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Integrity matters. We expect it of leaders in all walks of life. But why is integrity so rare? Jonathan Lamb looks at the example of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians and offers us a model of integrity in leadership that spans the centuries.

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In the midst of a troubled world, Christians believe in a good God who, as the Creator, has never lost interest in his broken creation. The key evidence for, and the chief symbol of, this divine commitment is the cross of Christ. This God, revealed Scripture, has a project; and central to the divine strategy is Christ, his coming and his cross. The troubles and calamities will end. The cross â€" which has been scandalous from the start â€" touches the individual, the church and the wider creation. The cross makes peace, and brings shalom. The canon of Scripture presents a 'divine comedy', where the story of Jesus, his cross and empty tomb are set in the framework of God's grand plan to restore the created order. Graham Cole's excellent study takes the broad approach, but not in a way that masks 'the cruciality of the cross'. He examines who God is and what humanity has become, then focuses on the divine provision for humanity in its plight. He explores how the 'peace dividend' of the cross works itself out at the personal, corporate and cosmic levels, and asks how we are to live if these things are really so. Finally, he discusses God's grand purpose, reviews the journey, and addresses the question of how God the peacemaker brings shalom through atonement in both the broad and narrow senses of the term. An appendix deals with a range of controversial aspects of the cross.

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The Lord Jesus Christ has won the victory: this is the objective reality that should inform Christian thinking about every aspect of human life. Even as we contemplate the presence of evil and the demonic in our world, the gospel whispers in our ears the greatest victory this world has ever seen, and ever will: 'Christ is risen!' However, the presence of evil, or our fear of the demonic, can stifle the gospel whisper. Throughout Christian history, the relationship between Christians and the forces of evil has been examined from a variety of perspectives; and recent missional studies and pastoral practices have stimulated further discussion. This volume, based on the 2008 Moore College School of Theology, seeks to listen below the present clamour drawing attention to the demonic, in order to hear the whisper of the gospel message more clearly, and to explore the power and victory it promises - even in the face of evil powers. The contributors are Tony Payne, Peter Bolt, Bill Salier, Matthew Jensen, Mark Thompson, Constantine Campbell, Greg Anderson, Jonathan Lilley and Donald West.

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John's affection for the recipients of his letters is clear: 'They are his "dear children", his "dear friends",' as John Stott points out. He continues, '[John] longs to protect them from both error and evil, and to see them firmly established in faith, love and holiness. He has no new doctrine for them. On the contrary, he appeals to them to remember what they already know, have and are. Whenever innovators trouble the church, and ridicule whatever is old or traditional, we need to hear and heed John's exhortation, to continue in what we have learnt and received, and to let it continue in us.'

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In today's postmodern culture, people come to Jesus in a wide variety of ways. If conversion ever was a mechanical, linear process, it is so no longer. Yet neither is it a nebulous spiritual wandering that never culminates in decision and commitment. Don Everts and Doug Schaupp have listened to the stories of two thousand postmodern people who have come to follow Jesus. While their stories are very different, certain common themes emerge. Postmodern evangelism may be a mysterious and organic process, but it also goes through common and discernible phases, as people cross thresholds from distrust to trust, from complacency to curiosity and from meandering to seeking. The authors describe the factors that influence how people change their perspectives and become open to the gospel. They provide practical tools for helping people enter the kingdom, and guidelines for how new believers can live out their Christian faith.

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Pop music, piercings and peers. The familiar issues that create conflict between parents and children belie the rapid rate of cultural change surrounding family life. As society alters beyond recognition, the gap between young and old threatens to become a deep fracture in the heart of families, communities - and churches. Urgent surgery is required to mend the gap. Resisting simplistic solutions, Jason Gardner deftly analyses the reasons for the growing generation gap, including the role of the church. He provides practical steps forward for church leaders, youthworkers and parents. Underpinning this hopeful book is an unshaking belief in Christ's burning ability to inspire a 'whole big bad beautiful mix of people to follow him, regardless of their age'.

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The Chronicler addressed an Israel separated from its former days of blessing by a season of judgment. The books of 1 and 2 Chronicles bring a divine word of healing and reaffirm the hope of restoration. The Chronicler's theme is straightforward - the promises of God revealed in the Davidic covenant are as trustworthy and as effective as the God who first uttered them.

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As Christians, we all know the apostle Paul, don't we? He is our theological master, our pastoral mentor, our spiritual advisor and our missionary hero. Yet just when we think we have him in our grasp, we find he slips through our fingers. At the point where we suppose we have finally understood him, Paul again confounds us and stirs our hearts and minds further. So how well do we really know him? If the Paul we claim to know looks and sounds a lot like us, then that is probably a good indication that we don't know him as well as we think we do. However, all is not lost. If we let Paul be Paul, letting him speak for himself in his language, on his terms and for his purposes, then we stand a chance of meeting him anew. Mike Bird offers a lively, accessible new survey of the apostle Paul's life and teaching. His aim is to get us excited about reading Paul's letters, preaching his gospel, and living the Christian life.

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