Search results for ""Inter-Varsity Press""

"At that time people began to call upon the name of the LORD" (Genesis 4:26 ESV). From this first mention of prayer in the Bible, right through to the end, when the church prays "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20), prayer is intimately linked with the gospel?God's promised and provided solution to the problem of human rebellion against him and its consequences. After defining prayer simply as "calling on the name of the Lord," Gary Millar follows the contours of the Bible's teaching on prayer. His conviction is that even careful readers can often overlook significant material because it is deeply embedded in narrative or poetic passages where the main emphases lie elsewhere. Millar's initial focus is on how "calling on the name of the Lord" to deliver on his covenantal promises is the foundation for all that the Old Testament says about prayer. Moving to the New Testament, he shows how this is redefined by Jesus himself, and how, after his death and resurrection, the apostles understood "praying in the name of Jesus" to be the equivalent new covenant expression. Throughout the Bible, prayer is to be primarily understood as asking God to deliver on what he has already promised?as Calvin expressed it, "through the gospel our hearts are trained to call on God's name" (Institutes 3.20.1). This New Studies in Biblical Theology volume concludes his valuable study with an afterword offering pointers to application to the life of the church today. Addressing key issues in biblical theology, the works comprising New Studies in Biblical Theology are creative attempts to help Christians better understand their Bibles. The NSBT series is edited by D. A. Carson, aiming to simultaneously instruct and to edify, to interact with current scholarship and to point the way ahead.

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We have more access to knowledge than ever before but, paradoxically, we are still searching for truth – for a way to make sense of our questions. The questions don't stop when we become Christians, and so the 2014 Keswick Convention addressed the theme: Really? Searching for Reality in a Confusing World. During the three weeks of Convention we looked at the truth the gospel offers, how the Bible addresses the big questions of life, and how we can grow as disciples in an uncertain world. This Year Book includes a selection of talks given during the 2014 Convention: Bible teaching from Roger Carswell, Ian Coffey, Jonathan Lamb, Ruth Padilla de Borst, Becky Manley Pippert, Ivor Poobalan, Vaughan Roberts, David Robertson and Chris Sinkinson to help ground your faith in the life-transforming reality found in Jesus.

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This new Pillar commentary devotes attention throughout to the vocabulary, historical background, special themes, and narrative purpose that make the book of Luke unique among the four Gospels. Though the Gentile focus of Luke is often held to be primary, James Edwards counterbalances that by citing numerous evidences of Luke's overarching interest in depicting Jesus as the fulfillment of the providential work of God in the history of Israel, and he considers the possibility that Luke himself was a Jew. Edwards also draws out other important thematic issues in excursuses scattered throughout the commentary, including discussion of Luke's infancy narrative, the mission of Jesus as the way of salvation, and Luke's depiction of the universal scope of the gospel. This readable, relevant commentary attends to the linguistic, historical, literary, and theological elements of Luke that are essential to its meaning and considers Luke's significance for the church and the life of faith today.

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Anyone who has been through Sunday school can tell you that Jesus walked on water, fed the 5,000 and told a parable about a sower. Is there really much more to it than that? Aren't the Gospels supposed to be the "easy" bits of the Bible? Using Mark as a worked example, Andrew and Tim follow 'the most important things that have ever happened in the history of the world'. They help us see "a diagnosis of the human condition more perceptive than that offered by any physician, politician, philosopher or psychiatrist". They point to a solution that touches in the same moment both the horrors of hell and the glory of heaven. We come face to face with the Jesus of the Bible and see how to follow him in a way that utterly transforms our lives. The conviction of the Dig Deeper books is that God wants us to work hard at reading the Bible in order to discover its true meaning, hence the use of 'tools' to dig and dig again. It's an interactive and enjoyable process. Indeed, the authors want to make finding Bible treasure a real possibility for everyone. And to do so with receptive hearts, listening to what the Holy Spirit is saying. 'What a splendid book! A great resource for Bible study leaders and preachers.' - Peter Adam 'This book is a gold mine, not just because of the many rich ideas it contains, but especially because it enables us to discover the treasures of the Gospels... The resulting engagement with the gospel - with Jesus himself - is compelling and life-changing.' - Jonathan Lamb

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'Here's a great resource which is well based in the Bible and contemporary counselling practice and yet is practical, manageable, and provides a step-by-step guide towards being set free from guilt, as Christ intends. 'Derek Tidball, Former Principal of London School of Theology * Have you been forgiven but you still feel guilty? * Does something from your past nag away despite all your best efforts to shrug it off? * Do mistakes loom large in your thinking and do your conversations start with an apology? Many people are paralysed with guilt. Guilt robs you of freedom, peace and joy. It can make you feel unacceptable or isolated. Jesus' forgiveness is the ultimate remedy for guilt, but even for those who believe, guilty feelings can still present a lingering problem. The Guilt Book combines biblical theology and modern psychology, offering a fresh perspective and helping us differentiate between our true guilt, for which forgiveness is needed, and false guilt, for which a psychological approach will help. Together, we will challenge entrenched cycles of guilt, with their associated feelings of hopelessness and despair. Freedom from persistent guilt is possible. Peace is worth fighting for.

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The Contemporary Christian is John Stott's definitive and passionate plea to the church. Before we attempt to teach or evangelise, he urges, we must listen to God's Word and God's world. Only then will we be able to communicate the authentic gospel effectively.John Stott himself models this 'double listening' as he tackles five key questions: * Amid scepticism inside the church as well as outside, what is the authentic gospel? * In a world torn by pain and need, what characterises the obedient disciple? * Now that the Bible is often set aside as culturally irrelevant, how can we relate it with integrity to contemporary society? * Given the church's general lack of credibility, what is her calling and how can she fulfil it? * In a pluralistic society and a hungry world, what is the church's mission?

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In recent years our knowledge of the individual parts of the Bible has increased greatly, but our understanding of how they fit together has not kept pace. In particular, the relationship between the Old and New Testaments has been a neglected field of study. The latest in IVP's developing family of New Dictionaries, the 'New Dictionary of Biblical Theology' is an essential tool for students, preachers and ministers, as well as for scholars and others seeking a better grasp of the Bible's teaching. The aim of this prestigious dictionary is to integrate the various biblical books and themes into the overarching story of the Scriptures. The volume embodies three perspectives on biblical theology, which are reflected in its structure.

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Surprisingly, in recent years evangelical exegetical commentaries on Isaiah have been few and far between. Now after over three decades of studying and teaching Isaiah, Alec Motyer presents a wealth of comment and perspective on this book. Although his emphasis is on the grammatical, historical, structural, literary and theological dimensions of the text, Motyer writes with an eye on its meaning for Christians today. Based on the author's knowledge of the Hebrew text, but utilizing the New International Version, the commentary easily accommodates readers without a working knowledge of biblical Hebrew. Preachers, teachers and serious Bible students of all types will find this commentary a wise, winsome and welcome guide to the prophecy of Isaiah. It may easily be the best one-volume evangelical commentary on Isaiah available today.

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Great privilege. Great pain. This is God's way: to take the privilege of faith and strengthen it with real trials so that we worship and witness with a greater passion for God. There is a certain irony to the fruit of affliction; John Bunyan's confinement taught him the pilgrim path of Christian freedom; William Cowper's mental illness yielded sweet music of the mind for troubled souls; David Brainerd's smouldering misery of isolation and disease exploded in global mission beyond all imagination. Irony and disproportion are all God's way. We think we know how to do something big, and God makes it little. We think that all we have is weak and small, and God makes it big. Barren Sarah gives birth to the child of promise. Gideon's three hundred men defeat a hundred thousand Midianites. A slingshot in the hand of a shepherd boy brings the giant down. A virgin bears the Son of God. A boy's five loaves feeds thousands. A breach of justice, grovelling political expediency, and criminal torture on a gruesome cross become the salvation of the world.

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Can Christian artists tough it out in the real world? Or can Christian art only survive when unchallenged, in the cordoned off enclave of the Christian subculture? If our music, writing, theatre, painting, artistic expression is insipid and uninspiring, how great is the God who allows it to represent him? How exciting is the life that seems to prefer drabness to colour, shallowness to complexity, security to risk? The world of the arts and media is where ideas are rehearsed and values are tested. And yet the Christian presence in that world is insignificant, and the church has not always been supportive. Are we fearful of opening ourselves to its influence, or are Christian artists too often swallowed up by the world where they seek to be salt and light? Steve Turner urges us to develop ways of being out there, of thinking rigorously but christianly, of finding a voice, of achieving an integrity in our artistic expression while maintaining a true spiritual integrity. Only then can our art naturally and inevitably speak of the hope that we have.

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Self-esteem is a problem for many people today, including Christians. Low self-esteem can hinder people from achieving their potential, and prevent even the most dedicated Christians from fulfilling God's purpose in their lives. Yet properly understood, the gospel provides an important answer to low self-esteem. In this important book, Joanna McGrath, a psychologist, and Alister McGrath, a theologian, explore a number of crucial questions, including; what is self-esteem?; are Christians allowed to have positive self-esteem?; what about sin and humility?; are psychological approaches to counselling anti-Christian?; how can I nurture self-esteem in myself and in other people? They demonstrate the centrality of the cross to a Christian understanding of self-esteem, and the importance of secure parental attachment to God in Christ for an authentic experience of self-worth. Their analysis also provides a sure-footed guide through current secular approaches in psychology and psychotherapy, revealing some of the strengths and weaknesses of these views.

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In a groundbreaking work Dan Estes produces a systematic theory of education in how to live. He describes and explains the rich tradition of education in living underlying Proverbs 1 - 9, a tradition based on that most important concept, 'The fear of the LORD'.

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Pastoral theology is theology seen from the shepherding perspective. Relating to every aspect of church life - from leading congregations to counselling individuals - it calls for pastors with a good grasp of Christian doctrine and a wide range of skills. After defining pastoral theology the author examines its biblical foundations. He then surveys the various ways in which it has been understood in the history of the church. In his final section Dr Tidball considers five major themes - belief, forgiveness, suffering, unity and ministry - as examples of pastoral theology at work in the church today.

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"Good preaching is the present Word of God to his people", argues J. I. Packer. And it is to communicate this that is our first calling. In this inspiring collection of essays, experienced preachers explore the different aspects of preaching.

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This is a journey through the Bible, which is an exploratory walk rather than a motorway dash. The large number and diversity of biblical passages dealing with the theme of creation underlines its central importance to the biblical message. As a theologian (whose focus is the Bible) and as an eminent astrophysicist (whose subject is the visible universe) David Wilkinson is well placed to try to capture some of the richness of the biblical portrayal of creation. The key to this portrait, believes David Wilkinson, is to see Father, Son, and Spirit in the beginning, the sustaining, and the new beginning of creation, giving life and love in a generosity beyond our imaginings.

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With characteristic insight, Dr D. Martyn Lloyd-jones here offers a detailed and comprehensive exposition of one of the best known but most frequently misunderstood passages of scripture – the Sermon on the Mount/ The Sermon on the Mount, says Lloyd-Jones, is not a code of ethics or morals; it is a description of what Christians are meant to be. With his eye always on both Scripture and life, he explains and applied Christ’s teaching for Christians struggling to live like Christ. Originally delivered as sermons, the sixty studies in this devotional classic provide a fine example of clear, consecutive expository preaching from one of the greatest preachers of our time.

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The developments in Old Testament studies during the past twenty-five years have created a mountain of scholarly data that challenges even the best-read researcher. From textual criticism to literary approaches, from historiography to social science, each discipline possesses unique patterns of development, scholarly personalities, and methodologies. The Face of Old Testament Studies tackles the challenge of organizing this wealth of data through a collection of essays on sixteen major areas of contemporary Old Testament research. Each contributor traces recent developments in his field of expertise, delineating new directions and crucial methodologies that have emerged in the mainstream academy. One distinctive of this compilation is that it also pays attention to conservative scholars who have made contributions of significance that have been recognized beyond their own camp. This reference work affords professors and students an overview of the salient issues and current approaches to Old Testament research. It is suitable as a textbook for Old Testament Introduction, Hebrew Exegesis, and Old Testament Theology courses, and will also be helpful for non-specialists who desire to keep up with developments in Old Testament studies.

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David Smith surveys the modern missionary movement, examines critical issues concerning the gospel and culture, reflects on mission in the context of violence and suffering, and explores the 145;translation146; of the gospel for today's globalized world. In his letter to the Romans, Paul makes striking use of the phrase 'the kindness of God' (11:22). The apostle to the Gentiles warns non-Jewish believers in the imperial city of Rome to beware of arrogance, counselling them to 'be afraid' that the kind of spiritual pride which led to the downfall of biblical Israel will also be their undoing. In the deeply troubled times in which we live, this text speaks powerfully to Christians throughout the world, summoning a global church to prioritize what really matters and to discover its unity in the service of the Christ whose life and death revealed in human form precisely the 'kindness of God'. Taking his starting point from Lesslie Newbigin's analysis of the contemporary historical and cultural context, David Smith explores issues in, and challenges to, the practice of Christian mission and witness today. He surveys the modern movement, starting with the World Missionary Conference in Edinburgh in 1910; examines critical issues concerning the gospel and culture; reflects on mission in the context of violence and suffering; and explores the 'translation' of the gospel for a globalized world. He also examines how Scripture was used to justify the political and economic expansion of European power at the dawn of the modern world, and argues that mission today demands both a new hermeneutic and a revised theology of mission, within which Paul's letter to the Romans will play a significant role.

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Think of the thriving evangelical churches in your area. Chances are they will be in the 'nice' areas of town and their leaders will be middle class. Tim Chester once attended a lecture where the speaker showed a map of Sheffield. The council wards were coloured different shades, according to social indicators: educational achievement, household income, benefit recipients, social housing, criminal activity, and so on. Slide after slide showed that the east side of the city was the needy, socially deprived half, compared to the more prosperous west. Where are the churches? Counting all the various tribes of evangelicalism, the large churches are on the west side. The working-class and deprived areas of our cities are not being reached with the gospel. There are many exciting exceptions, but the pattern is clear. According to Mez McConnell from Niddrie Community Church in Edinburgh, of the fifty worst housing schemes in Scotland, half have no church, and most of the others only have a dying church. Very few have an evangelical witness. This book is about reaching deprived, urban, working-class areas, often estates or schemes. It offers us the combined experience of the Reaching the Unreached working group, an informal network of Christian leaders from different parts of the UK. This book doesn't claim to be the final word. But it presents us with a vision of what can be done. We pray that it will capture imaginations and start a vital process in our hearts and minds.

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God is Trinity. This is foundational and life-changing. Yet, bizarrely, for many believers, this is one of the least-examined aspects of the Christian life. Sam Allberry takes us right to the heart of who God is, something which has radical implications for who we are as beings made in his image. 'Connected' unpacks the practical implications of the truth that God is Father, Son and Spirit. This transforms how we think of God and provides a vital perspective on key topics like: - identity - gender - church life - discipleship - prayer Could any issue be more important than this? The Trinity should never be shrouded in mystery - or jargon. Follow in Sam's footsteps and you will soon find yourself, like him, praising this awesome God who is Trinity.

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How can sixty-six books of the Bible have a single message for us today? What unites the vastly different accounts of God's work in the world? How do various genres of the Bible work together? Vaughan Roberts believes that the Bible tells a single story for all time. He draws out the Bible's message of Jesus Christ, and God's redemption through him, in six big questions. This companion volume to 'God's Big Picture' will not only help you to answer the questions listed above, but will give you tools to transform your own Bible study in the light of the whole story of God.

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The Minister's Wife' will show you how to make perfect cupcakes, turn out well-groomed children every Sunday morning and rise to the lofty heights where criticism cannot reach. In short, you will quickly become the model minister's wife. Unfortunately not. However, what this book will do for you is help you to look honestly at the privileges and problems of the manse and the rectory. It will free you up to become the best you can be, unencumbered by nagging concerns about issues that don t really matter. You are first and foremost a minister's wife before God. What a privilege! This book looks also at the minister's wife's responsibility to her husband and children, as well as to her wider family. It looks at the often-overlooked perks of the job, as well as at thorny issues such as boundaries, forgiveness and forbearance. This book contains wisdom from eight women, distilled for a wider audience. It will be an honest friend to the minister s wife, whether experienced or starting out.

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The apostle Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians is often regarded as his makeshift response to random problems in a messy church. This stimulating volume argues for, and undertakes, a more coherent reading of the letter, in the hope of providing a more compelling and theologically rich interpretation and a clearer apprehension of its relevance to the church today. Brian Rosner begins by putting the case for a holistic approach to studying the theology and ethics of 1 Corinthians. The following nine chapters cover, first, Karl Barth’s classic treatment, which underscores the letter’s coherence (Keith Condie); next, the major topics of holiness (Bill Salier), the cross (Philip Kern), sexual ethics (Roy Ciampa), spiritual gifts (David Peterson), eschatology (Bruce Winter), ethics (Michael Jensen), and the glory of God (Matthew Malcolm); and, finally, preaching 1 Corinthians (Brian Rosner). The chapters cohere around the themes of Paul’s pastoral practice and the wisdom of the cross of Jesus. The volume, based on the 2010 Moore College School of Theology, reflects the contributors’ common interest in theological interpretation that acknowledges the text as the word of God and seeks to serve the interests of the contemporary church.

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Is 'newer' really 'better'? We often assume so, but if we do treat the past as inferior we will ignore the legacy of history, and thus will find ourselves stranded on the tiny desert island of our own moment in time. In particular, this applies to Christian theology, which should be thought, and lived, corporately by the church down through the ages. The remedy to 'chronological snobbery' is, as C. S. Lewis put it, 'to keep the clean sea breeze of the centuries blowing through our minds'. Such is the motivation behind Michael Reeves' introduction to a selection of influential or significant Christian theologians. Furthermore, by 'sitting on the shoulders of giants ... our glance can take in more things and reach farther than theirs' (Bernard of Chartres). This accessible and informative companion volume to The Breeze of the Centuries covers Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Owen, Jonathan Edwards, Friedrich Schleiermacher and Karl Barth. Each chapter begins with a brief biography and some background, then surveys each theologian's major work or works, gives a timeline for historical context, and ends with guidance for further reading.

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The doctrine of the Trinity is widely taught and believed by evangelical Christians, but is rarely fully understood or celebrated. In this accessible and stimulating book, Fred Sanders shows why we ought to embrace the doctrine of the Trinity wholeheartedly and without reserve, as a central concern of evangelical theology. With passion and conviction, Sanders demonstrates that the doctrine of the Trinity is grounded in the gospel itself. He examines the centrality of the Trinity in our salvation and the Trinity’s presence in the reading of the Bible and in prayer. Readers will understand that a robust doctrine of the Trinity has massive implications for their lives. Indeed, recognizing the work of the Trinity in the gospel changes everything, restoring depth to prayer, worship, Bible study, missions, tradition, and our understanding of Christianity's fundamental doctrines.

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As the Olympic athletes discovered this summer, the secret to winning a gold medal is not just starting well, it's finishing well. We usually start our Christian race with great enthusiasm, but the challenge is to finish faithfully. How can we keep motivated for service, maintain our commitment to mission, persevere under pressure and grow in our spiritual lives? The theme for the 2012 Keswick Convention was 'Going the Distance: Living in the Light of the Future'. During the three weeks of convention we looked at the Bible's promises of Christ's return and our future glory, and considered how these Bible truths equip us for discipleship and encourage us to keep running the Christian race well. This yearbook includes a selection of talks given during the 2012 Convention: Bible teaching from Simon Manchester, Christopher Ash, Mike Raiter, Chris Sinkinson, Dominic Smart, Calisto Odede and Ian Coffey to help you run your race and keep 'Going the Distance'.

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Few individual books of the Bible have changed the course of church history the way Paul's letter to the Romans has. Whether one thinks of Augustine's conversion in the fourth century, Luther's recovery of justification by faith in the sixteenth or Barth's challenge to recover theological exegesis of the Bible in the twentieth, Romans has been the catalyst to personal spiritual renewal and the recapturing of gospel basics. Paul, in seeking to bring unity and understanding between Jews and Gentiles in Rome, sets forth in Romans his most profound explication of the gospel and its meaning for the church. The letter's relevance is as great today as it was in the first century. Throughout this commentary, Grant R. Osborne explains what the letter meant to its original hearers and its application for us today.

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Many of us have felt the temptation to opt for a domesticated version of the gospel. We want enough to make us happy and secure, but not so much that it really affects our lives. We want ecstasy not repentance, security not selfless love and service. We may not like to admit it, but the temptation is there. It is nothing new, but perhaps it is especially strong today. Many changes in society and increasing self-indulgence all put pressure on believers to water down the gospel and its impact on our lives. The apostle Paul saw the insidious evil of similar influences in the Roman Empire of his day, and recognized that these pressures could harm the fledgling Christian community in Philippi. He couldn't visit them, but he wrote to encourage them to maintain basic Christian commitments and to be on guard against an array of dangers: temptations from within and seduction and opposition from without. In 'Basics for Believers', Don Carson opens up the life-transforming lessons of Philippians, showing us how we can put the whole gospel first, learn to live as disciples of Christ, and never give up the Christian walk.

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Based on real questions from real people in the real world. I would recommend this book to anyone investigating what Christianity is all about, and, as ever from Michael Green, it's brilliant stuff!' Andy Hawthorne, Director of The Message Trust 'Religious people are too intolerant.' 'You can't trust what is in the Bible.' 'Science has disproved Christianity.' 'There's too much suffering in the world.' 'Something 2,000 years ago can't be relevant to me today.' Michael Green has responded to each of these statements in a direct and informal way, giving his Christian perspective on the opinions expressed. His easy style engages readers and shows how the Bible and Christian beliefs can provide a real faith for life. This book may even help you believe in spite of your buts...

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When we become new creations in Christ Jesus, our primary identity is in Christ,' observes Owen Hylton. Born into a black West Indian family, but living primarily in a white British world, he never felt entirely accepted in either place. 'Realizing that my identity was first and foremost in Christ was incredibly releasing,' he admits. Crossing the divide and embracing diversity is at the very heart of God's plan and purpose for his church. But in order to do this, we need to be aware of some of the reasons why people have stayed apart: our histories and prejudices, our lack of awareness and appreciation of one another. Owen defines sin as the greatest problem of humankind, separating us from God and setting us at odds with one another. The cross is ultimately a place of forgiveness and reconciliation. As new creations in Christ Jesus, forgiven and restored, we can confidently and joyfully celebrate our oneness, whatever our colour, status, gender or nationality.

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Jesus came to bring life in all its fullness and yet often Christians behave as if he is only really interested in the so-called 'spiritual' bits, like church, Bible study and evangelism. Everything else - work, leisure, culture and so on - are relegated to second place. But God did not intend us to live with this artificial separation. In this book Julian Hardyman reclaims all of life for God's glory and helps us discover where that sports skill, passion for politics or flair with fashion might fit into God's plans for an abundant life. Previously published as 'Glory Days', this second edition has been updated throughout and contains two brand new chapters on glorifying God during dark days and the environment.

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The Christian life is like a marathon race set out before us. There is a reward in running well, but particularly in finishing. Christians agree that this is a consistent pattern of New Testament teaching. However, is the prize a reward for having finished well? Or is the prize salvation itself - and can it be lost? Is everyone who started the race guaranteed a share in the prize? Do the warnings in Scripture tell believers that it is up to them to succeed or fail in the race? If so, is there no assurance of salvation? Or can we affirm that 'once saved, always saved', and that only a difference in rewards awaits us? Thomas R. Schreiner's study, based on his lectures at the Twelfth Oak Hill Annual School of Theology, explores the nature of admonitions and warnings in New Testament theology, their role in relation to perseverance and assurance in practical Christian living, and their pastoral implications. He offers clarification of some controversial issues, and responds to misunderstandings

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The New Testament writers set before us a number of models of ministry, each of which is shaped by the particular needs of the churches they were serving. Their own backgrounds, ambitions and passions also contribute to what they have to say about ministry. The contours of New Testament pastoral leadership, inspired by the Holy Spirit, exhibit a genuine diversity that finds its unity in Christ and his gospel. Derek Tidball provides a comprehensive survey of these models and patterns. By 'ministry', he has in mind primarily 'full-time' or 'professional' ministry, although his analysis is relevant to others who exercise ministry on a more occasional basis. For Tidball, the terms 'ministry' and 'leadership', or 'pastoral leadership', are interchangeable. His main focus in this volume is on pastoral leadership within local churches or groups of churches. Tidball's survey offers 'models of permission' that enable a freer approach to ministry and the way it is conducted, challenges the stunted understanding of ministry that can often characterize our churches today, and gives encouragement to those who do not fit a 'ministry by numbers' approach. Well-grounded in the relevant scholarship, Tidball's fresh engagement with the biblical texts, stimulating analysis and wise application will be of value to all who are established in pastoral leadership, or training for it.

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Many books have been written on the person and work of the Holy Spirit, and his ministry continues to be a vital and fascinating area for further exploration. Graham Cole's study, based on his lectures at the Tenth Oak Hill Annual School of Theology, focuses on important questions of practical relevance. Each one confronts us with challenges about our relationship with the Spirit, whether as Christian believers or unbelievers. Professor Cole demonstrates the value of having a clearly defined and articulated theological method, that takes the biblical text seriously, learns from others in the process of interpretation, and works hard at application to the contemporary context.

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From the footpaths of our cities to the chat rooms of the Internet, people are connecting today as never before. As the planet shrinks through the multiple forces of immigration, travel, electronic communication and more fluid employment patterns, we will find ourselves increasingly forced into contact with those who are significantly different from ourselves. Sadly however, the stranger is often a threat to be resisted rather than a friend to be embraced. In this context of in-your-face diversity, it is time to revisit the heart of the New Testament, with its claim that in Jesus Christ a new quality of human relationship is possible. In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul claims that Christians are a new kind of people, part of a new community: a 'new humanity' in Christ (Ephesians 2:15). We exist not in isolation, but in relationship. 'Dynamic Diversity' contends that all Christian congregations everywhere are called to be bridging places, centres of reconciliation, where the major diversities separating human beings are overcome through the presence of God's Holy Spirit. Bruce Milne presents a biblical model for today and tomorrow where the diversities of gender, generation, ethnicity, colour and socio-economic status present exciting and challenging opportunities to demonstrate practical oneness. When this happens, churches become wonderfully alive. In Christ we can be one people, one new humanity, one life.

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This major reference work is offered as a resource for today's church in its life, worship, and mission to the world. It aims to enable readers not merely to defend the gospel of Jesus Christ against attack, but also to commend it positively. The Dictionary addresses the main intellectual objections to the Christian faith, and puts the case in its favour from a wide variety of perspectives. But since apologetics is the task of the whole person, the contributors also consider how the truth of the church's message can be demonstrated within the diverse elements of contemporary culture. Christian students and scholars in all major disciplines, pastors and lay leaders of local churches, and anyone actively involved in evangelism or social outreach will be empowered by this dictionary to witness more effectively to Christ, in word and deed.

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The Book of Psalms has been precious to countless Jewish and Christian believers in many different languages and countries over many centuries. It has expressed their hopes and fears, inspired their faith, and renewed their trust in God. In this way, the spiritual insight and religious heritage of a small number of ancient Israelites has had a profound and lasting impact on humanity. The Book of Psalms is also of great importance in biblical scholarship. In the twentieth century, Psalms study was dominated by two approaches, but now it is in the midst of a sea change, and the older perspectives jostle for attention alongside newer interests. This volume aims to bridge the gap between basic introductions and specialized literature. Part 1 present overviews of current scholarly approaches and Ancient Near Eastern prayer. Part 2 covers central themes of distress, praise, king and cult. Part 3 gives an interesting sample of approaches concerned with the Psalter's content and final form. Part 4 considers interpretative traditions, seen in the shaping of the canonical Psalter and in later Christian and Jewish texts. The authors are Craig Broyles, Dale Brueggemann, Jerome Creach, Timothy Edwards, David Firth, Jamie Grant, David Howard, James Hely Hutchinson, Philip Johnston, Michael LeFebvre, Tremper Longman, Dwight Swanson, Any Warren-Rothlin, Gordon Wenham and Gerald Wilson. They have already published many books and articles, and made significant contributions to Old Testament scholarship.

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Being a Christian is the most exciting, creative, stretching, fulfilling and amazing thing we could ever experience. Yet we don't always find it like that. Sometimes we find it boring. Sometimes we find it frustrating. And many times we feel we're stuck in a rut. Peter Hicks knows all too well the joys and difficulties of living the Christian life. With the goal of becoming more like Jesus, he offers guidance on all aspects of growing as a Christian, from being your real self to being transformed, from being a servant to being free. Most of all he will help you discover, as a follower of Jesus, what you could be.

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How do we respond to the silent appeal in the dark eyes of the child in the charity catalogue, or the blanketed figure in the cold shop-doorway? Should we share the gospel with them, or a bowl of soup? Throughout history, men and women such as Wilberforce, Shaftesbury, Carey and Booth have recognized a call to help the needy. Others have argued that our first task is evangelism, that Christians should not meddle in politics, that social action is a distraction. Do we serve Christ through preaching his Word, or should we use words only when necessary? Tim Chester argues passionately that evangelism and social action are inseparable as two arms of the church's mission. He presents a biblical case for truly evangelical social action that is shaped and inspired by the gospel. He urges conservatives not to marginalize those who uphold the cause of the oppressed, and those involved in social action not to neglect the preaching of the Word.

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This Advent, join a daily journey from Genesis to Revelation to rediscover some of the magic of Christmas

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Tending to My Thoughts continues the story of Sharon Hastings, a medical doctor and Christian living with severe mental illness. Her personal experience of recovery offers a starting point to help readers think through what recovery could look like for them or their loved ones. Peppered with personal anecdotes, shot through with medical knowledge and chock-full of helpful explanation, this book inspires hope and provides evidence that life with mental illness can improve. Sharon Hastings writes to encourage those who walk alongside people who are suffering, as well as to equip individual Christians and churches to effectively support those in recovery, particularly from severe mental illness. 'Wise and real.' Emma Scrivener 'A book that needs to be read by every pastor.' Rachael Newham 'I recommend it unreservedly.' Revd Will van der Hart 'Threaded with realism, practicality and hope.' Mark Meynell

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Chris Wright's The Message of Ezekiel has been redesigned and sensitively updated to help you follow, study and teach the Bible in today's world.

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Did you know that the Bible has a great deal to say about ethnicity? Through the Bible, God shapes the way we engage with ethnicity. A biblical perspective on ethnicity gives us confidence to explore our own ethnic identities. In this eight-session LifeBuilder Bible Study, Steve Tamayo takes us through passages that open us up to difficult yet important conversations about race, culture, and ethnicity. If ethnicity is a gift from God, engaging this material may deeply transform the way we interact with family, friends, and enemies.

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The Book of Ruth is a tale of charm and delight, providing a contrast to the concurrent anarchy depicted in the book of Judges. Telling the simple story of a family who are struck by tragedy, but experience love and acceptance in unexpected ways, in Ruth’s narrative we are clearly shown God’s guiding hand as everything endured leads to the births of both King David and, finally, Jesus Christ. David Atkinson illuminates The Message of Ruth in this encouraging and thoughtful commentary, showing us how theologically the story of Ruth is a story about God’s providence. From Naomi and Ruth herself to Boaz, he guides us through the narrative and explores how each character fits into God’s purposes for history and what that means for us living as Christians today. A revised edition in the much-loved Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Ruth offers a thorough, readable exposition of both the Biblical text and what it can teach modern Christians. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for students and preachers who are looking to broaden their knowledge and understanding of Scripture and its continued relevance in the twenty-first century. This beautifully redesigned edition has been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NIV Bible text. The Message of Ruth will be helpful for anyone looking for accessible commentaries on Ruth that explore it more deeply, considering its meaning both for its original audience and for Christians reading it today.

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The Cross is the universal symbol of the Christian faith. But what does the Cross mean? Why did Jesus have to die? In this magisterial and best-selling book, John Stott explains the significance of Christ's cross and answers objections commonly brought against biblical teaching on the atonement. Stott will help you discover how Jesus himself understood the cross, and how 'Christ in our place' is at the heart of its meaning. Understand what the cross achieved, and learn what it means to live under the cross. This modern classic combines excellent biblical exposition, and a characteristically thoughtful study of Christian belief, with a searching call to the church to live under the cross.

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What does the bible say about persecution of Christians? Many New Testament studies focus on persevering in faith to the end and responding even to perpetrators of persecution with love and forgiveness. Yet while there are unifying principles, the New Testament is filled with a range of experiences of and reflections on Christian persecution – texts that it is crucial to engage with in order to fully appreciate the bewildering array of experience and strongly held viewpoints amongst believers today. In When Christians Face Persecution, Chee-Chiew Lee explores the New Testament authors’ theological understanding of persecution. She offers a thorough look at the biblical foundations, covering their responses to early Christian persecution, their evaluation of these responses, and how they encourage or persuade their recipients to persevere in their faith. Lee also brings these writings together to offer an integrated theology of facing persecution, reflecting on how the understanding of early Christian writers can be applied to the persecution of Christians today. When Christians Face Persecution is a valuable study that will enrich your knowledge of biblical teaching on persecution, and its continued relevance in the twenty-first century. It offers engaging theological synthesis as well as contextual reflection, and it invites you to a deeper understanding of the breadth of theological perspectives contained with the New Testament.

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How should Christians be faithful disciples in the political turbulence of Trump and Brexit? Christopher J H Wright unpacks the Biblical theme of idolatry and connects it to discipleship in today’s world. As Christians, we desperately need to name and expose the false gods and idols that we are tempted to bow down to – ‘Here are your gods!’ The Bible challenges the idols of political power and nationalism. The Biblical story is filled with hope that the kingdom of God will ultimately triumph over all human empires. How then should we live as followers of Jesus, the Messiah, Saviour, Lord and King? Part One is adapted from chapter 5 of Wright’s The Mission of God, ‘The Living God Confronts Idolatry’. Parts Two and Three bring the Bible to bear on contemporary politics in the UK and USA, and for all Christians seeking to make sense of the changing world we live in.

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