Search results for ""send the light""

Too often the virgin birth of Christ serves merely as an evangelical shibboleth instead of a doctrine that affects our lives. The theological meaning of the virgin birth is rich in and of itself. The author argues that the doctrine has been too long ignored by the church. Collecting from disparate sources into one brief accessible volume, Richard Shenk encourages the church towards boldness, to understand the rich theological treasure that the virgin birth of Christ is for us, and to live out its significance in joy and practice.

Read more less

This book addresses the universal theological dimension of reconciliation in the context of the Israeli Messianic Jewish and Palestinian Christian divide. Palestinian Christians and Israeli Messianic Jews share a belief in Jesus as the son of God and Messiah. Often, though, that is all they have in common. This remarkable book, written in collaboration by a local Palestinian Christian and an Israeli Messianic Jew, seeks to bridge this gap by addressing head on, divisive theological issues (as well as their political implications) such as land, covenant, prophecy and eschatology which separate their two communities. The struggle for reconciliation is painful and often extremely difficult for all of us. This unique work seeks to show a way forward. COMMENDATIONS "In a world that wants to see only one side of every conflict (and this one especially), where people believe only their own propaganda, and where many Christians inhabit hard shells of theological, political and apocalyptic certainties, this book is a bravely different voice. Rather, it is two voices talking carefully, honestly, graciously, respectfully and truthfully to each other - as sisters and brothers in the Messiah should. This is a unique conversation in which each partner, Messianic Jewish Israeli and Palestinian Christian, gives full expression to all that they are and think and feel about themselves and the conflict in their land. We are treated to some stretching theological debate and some honest self-criticism. But above all we come to share the hope and courage that shines through the pain and struggle." - Christopher J. H. Wright, International Ministries Director, Langham Partnership, UK "The Palestinian-Israeli divide may be the most intractable conflict of our time. With great courage, honestly facing the turbulent political, historical, and theological landscape which authentic reconciliation must engage, Munayer and Loden open up fresh space. Given the divides between their communities, this book is a remarkable achievement, a cry of hope from the land where Jesus walked." - Chris Rice, Director of the Center for Reconciliation, Duke Divinity School, USA

Read more less

The third book in The Mission and Marginal Series looks at the lessons we can learn from the testimonies of people living and working on the margins of society. If you look hard enough you will find groups of Christians deeply embedded in the life of every city - serving faithfully, innovating in extraordinarily creative ways and living sacrificially. This book is the third in a six-volume series specifically exploring the theologies and practices that are arising as groups seek to follow Jesus in these challenging situations. At the heart of the series are the core convictions that such involvement must prioritise the marginalised and socially excluded; that theology must be liveable and practical; and that mission studies benefit from engagement with insights from contemporary social science.

Read more less

An 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 - Paternoster

Read more less

A practical guide for all those involved in planting churches. Explores the why, the where, the who, the when, the how, and what of church planting. Stuart Murray has worked as an advisor on church planting for many years. Here he discusses local and trans-local approaches to planting churches, training planters and building teams, the key role of research and preparation, diverse models of planting, the need for developing contextual, authentic and missional church plants, and the connections with the emerging church phenomena. This book is a fundamental new resource for practitioners unlike any other.

Read more less

A firm understanding of our faith is increasingly important in a world of differing beliefs and perspectives. If we do not have the knowledge to underpin our beliefs we are in danger of appearing shallow to unimpressed onlookers. What we really need is the building blocks of faith. We need a sense of how what we believe will work out in practice. This accessible yet thought-provoking book equips us with the key building blocks of the Christian faith. From these strong foundations, an authentic and robust Christian faith can thrive as we live and work in the secular arena. Discover solid biblical foundations to live out a confident faith in an ever-changing context.

Read more less

The Tortoise Usually Wins is a delightful exploration of the theory of quiet leadership. Written for reluctant leaders, it interacts with three key biblical images of leadership - the leader as servant, shepherd and steward - and links them with some of the key virtues of quiet leadership - modesty, restraint, tenacity, interdependence and other-centeredness. Exploding the myth that the good is the enemy of the best, it argues that the reverse is more often true, with images of unattainable perfection crippling competent people from getting on with the task of doing genuinely good things. The book strips leadership of some of its mystique, arguing that the bulk of leadership is about helping groups decide the right things to do and then getting on and doing them in an atmosphere that brings the best out of others. Brian Harris is the principal of a highly regarded theological seminary and also pastors a thriving local church, so the book carries the wisdom of both professor and pastor, satisfying the reader both intellectually and practically. These insights are supplemented by interviews with significant quiet leaders from around the world, ensuring a rich feast for prospective and current reluctant leaders. 'Books on leadership are today two a penny. Just occasionally, however, one of these books might stand head and shoulders above most of the others, and to my delight The Tortoise Usually Wins falls into that category. Furthermore, so many books on leadership are written for natural leaders; whereas, as the author makes clear, most churches are led by "quiet leaders" who know they are not great, but nonetheless, are "tenacious and committed to the task and willing to work co-operatively with others to achieve it". I can see many church leaders benefitting from this book. I warmly commend this unusual book.' Paul Beasley-Murray, Senior Minister, Central Baptist Church, Chelmsford; Chair of Ministry Today UK

Read more less

Gives clear guidance about biblical grounds for divorce and remarriage which are both practical and fair in today's imperfect world. To many people, the Bible appears to have nothing sensible or relevant to say about divorce and remarriage. Its teaching often seems harsh and in saying that the only ground for divorce is adultery, it appears to condemn the victims of marital abuse to a lifetime sentence with their partner. New research into the background literature of the Bible, the ancient Near East and ancient Judaism shows that the original hearers of these teachings would have understood them very differently. It has revealed that: * Jesus and Paul rejected no-fault divorces and emphasised that divorce should be avoided if at all possible. * 1st century Jewish men and women could get divorced for neglect or abuse as well as for adultery. Jesus did not reject these grounds and Paul specifically affirmed them. * In the 1st century, remarriage was the right of every divorcee and neither Jesus nor Paul taught otherwise. 288 pages, from Paternoster.

Read more less

An exciting new series written with the aim of equipping churches and church-planting teams with the theory and practical knowledge needed to develop significantly new approaches to mission. This first book in the series presents a thought-provoking foundation for contemporary mission. Drawing on key theological, missiological and social scientific ideas it discusses the fundamentals that provide a basis for place-dependent, reflexive praxis amongst people occupying social margins. This fascinating work re-energises debate around questions of why and how mission in marginal places should be planned and implemented.

Read more less

Tim Grass outlines the life of F. F. Bruce, one of the most significant Evangelical scholars of the 20th century. He does so with originality, insight and a grasp of the implications for the church today. Evangelicals have often wrestled with two problems: the relation between academic theology and church life, and the quest for recognition of their status as credible interpreters of the Bible. Frederick Fyvie Bruce (19101990) was one of the most influential British biblical scholars of the twentieth century, and his career offers valuable insights into these issues, as well as shedding light on the ways in which Evangelicalism was changing from the 1950s onwards.

Read more less

During the past century the advance of secularism, the growth of other religious communities and the decline of the churches have combined to reduce the size and influence of the Christian community. Christians are now members of a minority religious community in a plural society. How is this diminished status to be understood in a global and historical context, within the purposes of God? What institutional changes are required? What psychological and emotional adjustments are needed in communities that have a corporate memory of majority status, privilege and influence? What hopes and expectations should be encouraged? What strategies should be adopted? A Vast Minority explores the challenges and opportunities we face. - Publisher

Read more less

This excellent work asks the important question: Is it right to describe Jesus as 'God'? Bringing together all the major biblical evidence as well as drawing on other early Jewish and Christian sources, this straightforward book provides a comprehensive view on the subject that is both accessible and authoritative, presenting both evidence in favour and some of the principal objections against the idea. While it will be of interest to anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of Scripture, it will have particular relevance for those with responsibility for leadership, teaching or evangelism in the church, as well as those in home groups. COMMENDATIONS "Anyone wishing to enlarge their view of Jesus or share their faith with others will unearth rich treasure in this book." - R.T. Kendall, Christian writer, speaker, and teacher; former Pastor of Westminster Chapel. "There is no shortage of exceptional books on Jesus, but David Lambourn's book offers a very readable and exciting examination of the greatest figure in human history." - Lord Carey, 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury

Read more less

The second book in the series focuses on participation and practice, and discusses a range of ways in which Kingdom-centred mission can be embedded in the actually existing realms of activity and need in marginal places. The book explores five different realms of practice, each presenting opportunities for innovative expressions of incarnational attentiveness to marginalized communities and people. It seeks to inspire prayerful and discerning activity that tunes into what Jesus is doing in local places, rather than providing any kind of "off-the-shelf" checklist of prefigured mission tactics. It challenges readers to take their faith-praxis beyond orthodox congregational settings and out into the everyday realms of life in marginal places.

Read more less

What motivated the apostle Paul from his Damascus road experience through to the end of his life? That is the question driving this powerfully argued work by leading New Testament scholar Paul Barnett. Dr Barnett proposes that an understanding of Paul's years in Syria-Cilicia is critical for understanding his visit to Jerusalem, the mission to Galatia, the counter-mission of the 'agitators', the dispute with Cephas in Antioch and the implied dispute with James. Read this work and see Galatians in a different light. COMMENDATIONS "If you are remotely interested in New Testament Studies, especially the writings of Paul, this is an outstanding book to read. Paul Barnett does an excellent job in casting light on the lengthy period of time the Apostle spent in Syria and Cicilia. While in Syria, Paul formed his theology, which Barnett brings out extremely informatively. Barnett reflects on how Paul would have influenced the writings of Peter and James. This book is stimulating, informative and an invaluable resource. For anyone who takes the New Testament writings of Paul seriously, this book brings it all together and is a must-read." - Peter Christofides, Dean of Students, Lecturer in New Testament, Vose Seminary, Perth, Western Australia

Read more less

Exploring the question 'Where is God when we suffer?" through biblical, theological and personal narratives. Why suffering? Why pain? Why? Are there any answers to that question? Where is God in the middle of this? This is the question at the heart of scripture and key to the identity of the people of God throughout the ages. This unique, biblically-rooted and pastorally-focused book explores these questions, engaging both the biblical narratives as well as our personal experience. "This poignant work, based in part on the author's own loss and grief, doesn't just provide a study of the issue; it speaks words of genuine hope. This is first-rate pastoral counselling direct from a broken heart. With a searing vulnerability the reader is drawn into a raw edged story of ongoing suffering." - David Coffey OBE, Global Ambassador, BMS World Mission "Andy Percey has written a most moving lament for a beloved sister. The answers he comes up with, if we can call them answers, are theologically robust and pastorally heart-warming. I am really glad this book is now out there." - Ian Stackhouse, Minister of Millmead, Guildford Baptist Church, UK

Read more less

Why is God love? Because God is a Trinity. Why can we be saved? Because God is a Trinity. How are we able to live the Christian life? Through the Trinity. In this lively and refreshing book, we find an accessible introduction to the profound beauty of the Trinity. With wit and clarity, Reeves draws from notable teachers from church history to the present to reveal how the Christian life is rooted in the triune God – Father, Son and Spirit. Be encouraged to grow in enjoyment of God and see how God's triune being makes all his ways beautiful.

Read more less