Must the gospel message include a call for people to repent of their sins? “No,” say Free Grace advocates. Is evidence of a changed life an important indication of whether a person is truly born again? “No, again,” these advocates say.

But in this book, Wayne Grudem shows how the Bible answers “Yes” to both of these questions, arguing that the Free Grace movement contradicts both historic Protestant teaching and the New Testament itself.

This important book explains the true nature of the Christian gospel and answers the question asked by so many people: “How can I know that I’m saved?”

“Credence without commitment and assurance without action are the hallmarks of the so-called Free Grace version of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is, however, unbiblical, anti-evangelical, and sub-Christian, as Grudem’s patient and well-informed analysis clearly shows.”
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

“The so-called ‘lordship controversy’ has been simmering for several decades now. I’m thankful for several fresh resources that deal with these matters accurately and succinctly. Wayne Grudem’s book in particular is an excellent and very useful digest of the main doctrinal and biblical issues under debate. He answers the questions with uncommon clarity and skill, always from Scripture.”
John MacArthur, Pastor, Grace Community Church, Sun Valley, California; President, The Master's College and Seminary

“Within evangelicalism, there is a kind of presentation of the Bible’s teaching on grace that actually diminishes what the Bible teaches about grace, while purporting to elaborate and emphasize it. Wayne Grudem carefully, charitably, wisely, and pastorally takes on that kind of teaching in this book. This is an issue that especially pastors and those preparing to be pastors need to think through clearly, because confusion in our teaching and preaching on this will harm the sheep and our witness.”
J. Ligon Duncan III, Chancellor and CEO, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi

“Ever so fair and irenic, New Testament scholar and trusted theologian Wayne Grudem gives no quarter to the purveyors of the so-called Free Grace gospel as he exposes their troubling pattern of selective reading of the standard Greek lexicons, as well as of famed theologians, to effect the illusion of support for their position. Grudem does more than demolish a house of cards as he pastorally lays out what the New Testament says about the nature of the gospel, repentance, faith, and assurance. Grudem’s critique is a gift of love to the church universal, and especially to those under the unfortunate thrall of errant teaching.”
R. Kent Hughes, Visiting Professor of Practical Theology, Westminster Theological Seminary

“With grace, patience, pastoral tenderness, and honesty, Wayne Grudem takes a careful look at biblical teaching on the gospel and evangelism as he critically examines the teaching of what is called ‘Free Grace.’ As well intentioned as this position is, Grudem argues it falls short in five areas. He is fair, citing Free Grace materials in full and engaging biblical texts with care. I commend this book as one who has had similar discussions on these topics with people who hold this position, people whom I also respect as Grudem does.”
Darrell L. Bock, Executive Director of Cultural Engagement, Howard G. Hendricks Center, and Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary    

“This book is charitable yet rock-solid in its penetrating insights regarding the Free Grace movement. The soteriology of this movement is thoroughly consistent—and deeply flawed. Grudem has addressed a number of the key issues and texts in a gracious and gentle manner. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in the Free Grace movement and its implications for the gospel.”
Daniel B. Wallace, Senior Professor of New Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

“Wayne Grudem’s book on Free Grace is the best I have read on the subject, and I commend it with enthusiasm for several reasons. First, it is biblically saturated, showing us again and again what the Scriptures say. Second, Grudem’s explanations are so clear that virtually any Christian can read and understand this book. Third, the book is amazingly kind, generous, and charitable. Grudem isn’t on the attack. He loves those with whom he disagrees, and that love shines through the book. Fourth, Grudem recognizes the issue is massively important since it has to do with the nature of the gospel we preach and proclaim. He argues convincingly that works are a necessary fruit of salvation, which doesn’t threaten free grace but upholds what the great Reformers taught about salvation.”
Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“This excellent and insightful book is much needed in the church today, especially in view of ever-increasing focus on the nature of the gospel. His analysis of the ill-named Free Grace movement is clear, thoroughly biblical, and entirely persuasive. He deals forthrightly yet charitably with the views of those who advocate this mistaken conception of the gospel of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. All Christians will benefit greatly from reading Grudem’s analysis. I cannot recommend this book too highly.”
Sam Storms, Lead Pastor for Preaching and Vision, Bridgeway Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

“With care and weighty biblical and historical argumentation, Grudem applies his clear-headed reasoning to show where the Free Grace view has gone wrong. Because this disagreement has to do with the very nature of the gospel, saving faith, and the basis of assurance, it is critical that Christians understand rightly what Scripture teaches on these matters. “Free Grace” Theology provides an excellent guide to understanding why the traditional Protestant and Reformed view of these matters accurately expresses biblical teaching and where the Free Grace view misleads. Every Christian can benefit from reading this book, to grow in clarity and conviction of understanding of what salvation by faith alone truly means.”
Bruce A. Ware, T. Rupert and Lucille Coleman Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Acknowledgments
Introduction

1. Not the 'Faith Alone' of the Reformation
2. No Call to Repent of Sins
3. False Assurance
4. Underemphasis on Trust in the Person of Christ
5. Unlikely Interpretations

Conclusion
Bibliography
General Index
Scripture Index

Specifications

The Old Testament book of 1 Samuel records the story of three important leaders in Israel’s history: Samuel, Saul, and David. The lives of these flawed men showcase God’s gracious response to ancient Israel’s leadership crisis, offering valuable lessons related to why leaders fail, the impact this failure can have on God's people, and what it means to model godly leadership—even today.

In this accessible commentary, John Woodhouse shows how 1 Samuel reveals the importance of true leadership and the character of the godly leader. More significantly, this volume points forward to Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s promises to his people and the only perfect leader the world has ever known.

Those who preach and teach God's Word will find this an invaluable resource as they seek to help others embrace 1 Samuel's timely message.

Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Part 1: Samuel: The Leader God Provided (1—7)

1. The Leadership Crisis (1:1, 2)
2. Does God Care? (1:3–28)
3. The God of Knowledge (2:1–10)
4. Corruption and Ineptitude (2:11–26)
5. God and Corruption (2:27–36)
6. When God Speaks (3)
7. The Problem of the Power of God, Part 1 (4:1–11)
8. Where Is the Glory? (4:12–22)
9. The Problem of the Power of God, Part 2 (5)
10. Knowing the Power of God (6)
11. Effective Leadership (7)

Part 2: Saul: The Leader the People Asked For (8—15)

12. The Leader Israel Wanted (8)
13. Lost Donkeys and the Word of God (9)
14. The Secret of the Kingdom (10:1–16)
15. The King and the Kingdom (10:17–27)
16. The Kingdom at War (11:1–11)
17. Kingdom Renewal, Part 1 (11:12–15)
18. Kingdom Renewal, Part 2 (12)
19. 19 The Fool (13)
20. A Leader Who Trusted God (14:1–23)
21. Disobedience and Foolishness (14:24–52)
22. The Leader Who Let Them Down (15:1–11
23. The Rejected King (15:12–35)

Part 3: David: The Leader “According to God’s Own Heart” (16—31)

24. Seeing as God Sees (16:1–13)
25. Two Kings: A Confusing World (16:14–23)
26. The Enemy (17:1–11)
27. The God of the Unexpected (17:12–30)
28. The Gospel of David (17:31–40)
29. David and Goliath (17:41–58)
30. Do You Love Him? (18:1–16)
31. Love Him or Fear Him (18:17–30)
32. “. . . Against the Lord and against His Anointed” (19:1–10)
33. “. . . The Lord Holds Them in Derision” (19:11–24)
34. What Do You Fear? (20:1–23)
35. “If Anyone Does Not Hate His Own Father . . .” (20:24–42)
36. “Have You Not Read What David Did?” (21:1–9)
37. Out of the Frying Pan . . . (21:10–15)
38. “God Chose What Was Low and Despised in the World” (22:1–5)
39. The Antichrist (22:6–23)
40. The Christ Must Suffer (23:1–14)
41. “Therefore We Do Not Lose Heart” (23:15–29)
42. “He Did Not Revile in Return” (24)
43. Vengeance Belongs to the Lord (25)
44. Righteousness and Faithfulness (26)
45. Clever and Cunning Success (27)
46. “Having No Hope and without God” (28)
47. The “Trial” of David (29)
48. A King Who Gives (30)
49. The King Is Dead (31)

Specifications

As soon as the smartphone was introduced, many of us adopted it into our lives—too quickly to stop and think about the future costs we were unboxing along with the device. Now blessed with this revolutionary piece of handheld technology, we try to wield it with wisdom, fending off anxieties about how our digital habits impact our spiritual health. Drawing on the insights of numerous thinkers, published studies, and his own research, writer Tony Reinke identifies twelve potent ways our smartphones have changed our lives—for good and ill. Reinke calls us to cultivate healthy habits for smartphone use in the digital age, encouraging us to be grateful for technological advance, develop skills aimed at maximizing the blessing that we (and others) can receive through our phones, and grow in the wisdom we need to avoid the many pitfalls that exist with such a powerful tool.

Foreword
Introduction
A Little Theology of Technology

1. We Are Addicted to Distraction
2. We Ignore Our Flesh and Blood
3. We Crave Immediate Approval
4. We Lost Our Literacy
5. We Feed on the Produced
6. We Become Like What We 'Like'
7. We Get Lonely
8. We Get Comfortable in Secret Vices
9. We Lost Meaning
10. We Fear Missing Out
11. We Become Harsh to One Another
12. We Lost Our Place in Time

Living Smartphone Smart
Epilogue
Acknowledgements

Specifications

King David stands as one of the most important figures of world history. From children’s storybooks to Michelangelo’s famous statue, ancient Israel’s most famous king is still remembered and recognized by people around the world three thousand years after he lived.

In this commentary on the book of 2 Samuel, professor and former pastor John Woodhouse helps readers deepen their understanding of David’s tumultuous reign by highlighting his place in salvation history—a history that began with Israel but now encompasses God’s plan for the whole world. What’s more, he shows that the concept of the kingdom of God is crucial to the whole storyline of the Bible . . . and for our lives today.

Designed as a trustworthy resource for pastors who preach and teach on a regular basis, this commentary makes the case that David’s story is relevant because it lays the crucial foundation for the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, “the Son of David.”

Part of the Preaching the Word series.

“Dr. Woodhouse’s customary rigor with the text, combined with acute observation and wide-ranging Biblical and theological reflection, makes this commentary a must-have for any preacher of the book. The commentary does far more than explain the text, it feeds the soul. I could not recommend it more highly.”
William Taylor, Rector, St. Helen's Bishopsgate, London; author, Understanding the Times and Partnership

“John Woodhouse’s commentaries on 1 and 2 Samuel are not written to gather dust on the shelf. They are the rare commentaries worthy of being read cover to cover and are destined to be thoroughly underlined and oft quoted. Again and again Woodhouse helps readers see through the shadows of King David into the rule and reign of his greater Son, King Jesus.”
Nancy Guthrie, Bible Teacher; author, Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament Bible study series

“Dr. Woodhouse is one of my favorite interpreters of Scripture. He has an uncanny ability to so carefully read a text, that you will see things you never noticed, only then to wonder why you had not seen them before. He does justice to a text in its own historical and literary contexts, while showing how it resonates with the whole story of the Bible. Finally, he is a master of conceiving preaching trajectories from the Old Testament for the edification of the church. These features, and more, characterize this outstanding volume on 2 Samuel. With its guidance, pastors will read, learn, and preach the message of 2 Samuel with greater depth of insight to the glory of the greater Davidic King.”
Constantine R. Campbell, Associate Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

“This book is the ideal commentary for a preacher. It summarizes wide and deep scholarship clearly and concisely, offers perceptive and persuasive judgments on matters of translation and interpretation, and contains thoughtful suggestions for hearing these narratives as a part of Christian Scripture fulfilled in great David’s greater Son. It is a marvelous resource.”
Christopher Ash, Former Director of the PT Cornhill Training Course, The Proclamation Trust; Writer in Residence, Tyndale House; author, The Priority of Preaching

“Dr. Woodhouse’s masterly exposition of 2 Samuel takes us through the life and story of King David in a gripping way, setting David within the whole story of God’s salvation, which culminates in the news about Jesus Christ, ‘the Son of David’ and ultimate King. Woodhouse writes with clarity and warmth that will not only excite preachers of God’s Word, but also challenge and encourage others who love the Scriptures. Highly recommended.”
Peter T. O'Brien, Former Vice-Principal and Senior Research Fellow and Emeritus Faculty Member, Moore Theological College, Australia

“John Woodhouse’s commentaries on 1 and 2 Samuel set a new benchmark for faithful, detailed engagement with the text of Scripture that warms the heart as it informs the mind. John explains each passage, not only in the context of the book but also in the grand sweep of Biblical theology, culminating in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Phillip D. Jensen, Evangelist and Bible Teacher, Two Ways Ministries

“This is not simply the best and sufficient commentary on 2 Samuel that explores every sentence in the light of the whole of Scripture, but is also a model of brilliant exposition for any preacher to adopt.”
Archie Poulos, Head of the Ministry Department and Director of the Centre for Ministry Development, Moore Theological College 

Introduction: Kingdom Matters (2 Samuel and Matthew 6:9, 10)

Part One: The King Is Dead (1)

1. A Dead King, a Victorious King, and a Time of Waiting (1:1)
2. Who Says Crime Doesn’t Pay? (1:2–10)
3. Crime Doesn’t Pay (1:11–16)
4. What the Victorious King Said about the Dead King (1:17–27)

Part Two: The Coming of the Kingdom (2:1—5:3)

5. Who Will Have This King? (2:1–11)
6. Human Politics and the Kingdom (2:12–32)
7. Ambitious Opportunism and the Kingdom (3:1–21)
8. Personal Vengeance and the Kingdom (3:22–39)
9. Wicked Violence and the Kingdom (4)
10. Coming to the King (5:1–3) 139

Part Three: The Kingdom of David (5:4—10:19)

11. “On Zion, My Holy Hill” (5:4–16)
12. “The Nations Rage and the Peoples Plot in Vain” (5:17–25)
13. “Rejoice with Trembling” (6:1–11)
14. The Joy of Humility and the Misery of Pride (6:12–23)
15. The Most Important Words in the World (7:1–7)
16. The Promise (7:8–16)
17. The King’s Prayer (7:17–29)
18. “I Will Make the Nations Your Heritage” (8:1–6)
19. A Kingdom of Justice and Righteousness (8:7–18)
20. The Kindness of the King (9)
21. Those Who Despise the Kindness of the King (10)

Part Four: The Failure of David (11—20)

22. The Disaster (11:1–5)
23. The Deceitful Heart (11:6–13)
24. The Murderer (11:14–27)
25. Shattered by the Word of God (12:1–15)
26. Restoration (12:16–31)
27. Like Father, Like Son (13:1–22)
28. Vengeance and the Kingdom (13:23–39)
29. Foolish Schemes (14)
30. Politics and Power (15:1–12)
31. The Darkest Day (15:13–31)
32. People Who Met David (15:19—16:14)
33. The Friend and the Traitor (16:15–23)
34. The Plan That Really Matters (17)
35. When Love and Justice Do Not Meet (18)
36. The Return of the King (19)
37. An Unstable Kingdom (20)

Epilogue: The Kingdom of David and the Kingdom of God (21—24)

38. A Problem in David’s Kingdom: God’s Wrath, Part 1 (21:1–14)
39. The Strength of David’s Kingdom: His Mighty Men, Part 1 (21:15–22)
40. The Hope of David’s Kingdom: The Lord’s Promise, Part 1 (22)
41. The Hope of David’s Kingdom: The Lord’s Promise, Part 2 (23:1–7)
42. The Strength of David’s Kingdom: His Mighty Men, Part 2 (23:8–39)
43. A Problem in David’s Kingdom: God’s Wrath, Part 2 (24)

Specifications

Read the New Testament from a biblical-theological perspective.

Featuring contributions from nine respected evangelical scholars, this volume introduces each New Testament book in the context of the whole canon of Scripture, helping anyone who teaches or studies the Bible to apply it to the church today.

“Seminary-level New Testament introductions are plentiful. But this one provides what others do not: a consistent hermeneutical orientation as articulated by a top-tier roster of nine different scholars associated with Reformed Theological Seminary throughout its history. In addition to chapters covering all the New Testament books, valuable appendices treat canon, text, the synoptic problem, and more. Addressing both spiritual and academic issues with a view to pastoral equipping and biblical exposition, this wide-ranging compendium will benefit readers in both classroom and personal settings.”
Robert W. Yarbrough, Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary

“With the right mix of academic integrity and purposeful accessibility, this New Testament introduction will serve time-crunched pastors, ministry-minded students, and church members looking to better understand their Bibles. What makes this new volume unique is the emphasis on examining the theological themes in each book of the New Testament, rather than focusing on arcane debates prompted by liberal scholarship. The result is an insightful and impressive resource, one I will use in my own studies and often recommend to others.”
Kevin DeYoung, Senior Pastor, University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Michigan

“While introductions to the New Testament abound, this volume is a rare gem. It admirably combines depth of scholarship and theological exegesis within a biblical-theological framework—all couched in highly readable prose, offered for the sake of the church. It will no doubt instruct and edify. Well done.”
Constantine R. Campbell, Associate Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

“This biblical-theological introduction walks readers through key biblical themes and issues concerning the backdrop to the 27 books of the New Testament. It is judicious, informative, and also quite accessible, making it profitable for students and pastors alike.”
Darrell L. Bock, Executive Director of Cultural Engagement, Howard G. Hendricks Center, and Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary    

“Aimed at pastors and interested Christian readers, this biblical-theological introduction to the New Testament is a welcome addition to the introductory literature on the New Testament. The volume, a collaborative effort by nine different authors, is written within a framework of biblical theology and based on a commitment to biblical inerrancy and Reformed theology. Highly recommended!”
Andreas J. Köstenberger, Senior Research Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Students and pastors, not to mention laypeople, usually find introductions to the New Testament writings to be rather dry and sterile. But this introduction by RTS authors has a different quality since it focuses on the theology and content of the New Testament. Those who study the New Testament want to gain a better understanding of its message, and thus this volume will prove to be an immense help for pastors, students, laypeople, and even scholars.”
Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Solid authors construct a biblical theology by providing thematic summaries of each book of the New Testament. While I would not agree with every point made by the authors, many readers will find this an extremely helpful and useful introduction to the teaching of the New Testament.”
Peter J. Gentry, Professor of Old Testament Interpretation, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; Director, the Hexapla Institute

Foreward
J. Ligon Duncan III
Acknowledgments
Abbreviations
Introduction
Michael J. Kruger

1. Matthew
   Reggie M. Kidd
2. Mark
   Benjamin Gladd
3. Luke
   Robert J. Cara
4. John
   Michael J. Kruger
5. Acts
   Robert J. Cara
6. Romans
   Guy Prentiss Waters
7. 1–2 Corinthians
   Guy Prentiss Waters
8. Galatians
   Guy Prentiss Waters
9. Ephesians
   Guy Prentiss Waters
10. Philippians
    Bruce A. Lowe
11. Colossians
    Benjamin Gladd
12. 1 Thessalonians
    Robert J. Cara
13. 2 Thessalonians
    Robert J. Cara
14. Introduction to the Pastoral Epistles
    William B. Barcley
15. 1 Timothy
    William B. Barcley
16. 2 Timothy
    William B. Barcley
17. Titus
    William B. Barcley
18. Philemon
    Benjamin Gladd
19. Hebrews
    Simon J. Kistemaker
20. James
    Bruce A. Lowe
21. 1 Peter
    William B. Barcley
22. 2 Peter
    Simon J. Kistemaker
23. 1–3 John
    Charles E. Hill
24. Jude
    Simon J. Kistemaker
25. Revelation
    Charles E. Hill

Appendix A: The New Testament Canon
Michael J. Kruger
Appendix B: The New Testament Text: An Introduction to New Testament Textual Criticism
Charles E. Hill
Appendix C: The Synoptic Problem
Guy Prentiss Waters
Appendix D: The Use of the Old Testament in the New Testament: Trusting the New Testament's Hermeneutics
Robert J. Cara
Appendix E: Scripture Versions Cited
Contributors
General Index
Scripture Index

Specifications

Read the Old Testament from a biblical-theological perspective.

Featuring contributions from thirteen respected evangelical scholars, this gospel-centered introduction to the Old Testament will help anyone who teaches or studies Scripture to better see the initial outworking of God’s plan to redeem the world through Jesus Christ.

“For expository preachers and teachers of the Bible, this is truly a gold mine. Present and past members of the Reformed Theological Seminary faculty have produced a volume that is long overdue. Sound biblical-theological treatments of each book of the Old Testament, linked with good historical and literary comments, all conclude by pointing to the fulfillment of the texts in the person and work of Jesus. With this volume, no preacher should ever feel that preaching Christ from the Old Testament is too hard or too speculative.”
Graeme Goldsworthy, Former Lecturer in Old Testament, Biblical Theology, and Hermeneutics, Moore Theological College

“For many Christians, the Old Testament is like a thousand pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Where do you start? It helps to look at the box top and see how it all fits together. That’s what these superb teachers of the church do in this insightful book.”
Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics, Westminster Seminary California; author, Core Christianity: Finding Yourself in God's Story

“In this volume, a number of capable biblical scholars faithfully explore the Old Testament writings with sensitivity and sensibility. They do an admirable job not simply in describing the main themes and theology of each book but also in artfully showing that the Old Testament has a covenantal framework, a kingdom perspective, and Christ at its center. In brief, this is a superb volume, which provides an understandable and informative overview of the Old Testament. A great antidote to an embarrassing ignorance of the Old Testament by Christians.”
Michael F. Bird, Lecturer in Theology, Ridley College, Melbourne, Australia; author, Evangelical Theology

“The purpose of this work, ‘to show how the vast, eclectic diversity of the Scriptures has been woven together by a single, divine Author over the course of a millennium as the covenantal testimony to the person and work of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit according to the eternal decree of God the Father,’ is grand in itself. Yet more noble still is the pursuit of that goal through the combined efforts of a great faculty who are honoring the fifty-year legacy of a blessed institution steadfastly committed to the inerrancy of God’s Word and the historic distinctives of the Christian faith.”
Bryan Chapell, President Emeritus, Covenant Theological Seminary; Senior Pastor, Grace Presbyterian Church, Peoria, Illinois

“A high regard for Scripture as the authoritative Word of God percolates through every chapter of this collection. Moreover, it repeatedly displays flashes of insight into the redemptive-historical outworking of God’s salvation plan for his people. You may not agree with the position of every author, but you will be challenged to seriously consider each carefully crafted essay, all of which are written at a very accessible level. The book achieves an excellent tone in its awareness of the many difficult questions that an honest reading of the Old Testament introduces. These contributors are also sensitive to canonical and literary concerns. Finally, this volume even includes teaching on the ‘prophetic idiom,’ and if you don’t know what that is, then take up and read! I’m so glad that Van Pelt has gathered such an able band of brothers to produce this fine book.”
Bryan D. Estelle, Professor of Old Testament, Westminster Seminary California; author, Salvation Through Judgment and Mercy: The Gospel According to Jonah

“Van Pelt and his colleagues offer every worshiper of Christ a means of drawing out the one story of the King and his kingdom as it runs through the Law and the Prophets. Their analyses of the individual books of the Old Testament reveal the beauty of the whole canon. A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the Old Testament is intellectually enriching and pastorally faithful, helping the church to grow in love for the Savior through reading the Hebrew Bible. Congregants and Bible students will find great joy in reading their Scriptures with the aid of this work!”
Eric C. Redmond, Assistant Professor of Bible, Moody Bible Institute; Pastor of Adult Ministries, Calvary Memorial Church, Oak Park, Illinois

Foreward
J. Ligon Duncan III
Preface
Acknowledgments
Abbreviations
Introduction
Miles V. Van Pelt

1. Genesis
   John D. Currid
2. Exodus
   John D. Currid
3. Leviticus
   Michael G. McKelvey
4. Numbers
   Michael J. Glodo
5. Deuteronomy
   John Scott Redd
6. Joshua
   Daniel C. Timmer
7. Judges
   Michael J. Glodo
8. 1–2 Samuel
   Michael G. McKelvey
9. 1–2 Kings
   William B. Fullilove
10. Isaiah
    Willem A. VanGemeren
11. Jeremiah
    Peter Y. Lee
12. Ezekiel
    Michael G. McKelvey
13. The Twelve
    Daniel C. Timmer
14. Psalms
    Mark D. Futato
15. Job
    Richard P. Belcher Jr.
16. Proverbs
    Willem A. VanGemeren
17. Ruth
    John J. Yeo
18. Song of Songs
    Miles V. Van Pelt
19. Ecclesiastes
    Richard P. Belcher Jr.
20. Lamentations
    Peter Y. Lee
21. Esther
    Peter Y. Lee
22. Daniel
    Richard P. Belcher Jr.
23. Ezra–Nehemiah
    Mark D. Futato
24. 1–2 Chronicles
    Richard L. Pratt Jr

Appendix A: The Seventy Weeks of Daniel 9
Richard P. Belcher Jr.
Appendix B: The Role of Heavenly Beings in Daniel
Richard P. Belcher Jr.
Contributors
General Index
Scripture Index

Specifications

In this explosive book, Francis Schaeffer shows why morality and freedom have crumbled in our society. He calls for a massive movement-in government, law, and all of life-to reestablish our Judeo-Christian foundation and turn the tide of moral decadence and loss of freedom.

A Christian Manifesto is literally a call for Christians to change the course of history-by returning to biblical Truth and by allowing Christ to be Lord in all of life.

'Schaeffer was right. Today, we need leaders who can show us how to operate . . . in a way that does not neglect or enshrine politics. We need to discern which behaviors by Christians are helpful . . . and which are not.'
Marvin Olasky, Editor in Chief, World Magazine

'When I went to L'Abri many years ago as an agnostic, it was the first time I encountered Christians who engaged with the cultural and intellectual world. A leader distinguished by his integrity and authenticity, Francis Schaeffer shows how the richness of biblical truth illuminates the course of history as well as our individual lives.'
Nancy Pearcey, Author, Total Truth: Liberating Christianity from Its Cultural Captivity

'I can think of no one who has had more impact on evangelical theology and social policy in the last three decades than Francis Schaeffer. Dr. Schaeffer had enormous influence on a whole generation of baby-boomer evangelicals, calling us to engagement with society and inspiring us to be the salt and light that Jesus commanded. The culmination of Schaeffer's call for the church to be the church were How Should We Then Live? and A Christian Manifesto. We all owe Dr. Schaeffer an incalculable debt.'
Richard Land, President, Southern Evangelical Seminary

'Go to any evangelical Christian gathering . . . and ask twenty people the simple question: 'What single person has most affected your thinking and your worldview?' If Francis Schaeffer doesn't lead the list of answers, and probably by a significant margin, I'd ask for a recount.'
Joel Belz, Founder, World magazine

Specifications

To truly understand God’s Word, we must know both what it says (content) and how it says it (form). This accessible guide features over 250 alphabetically arranged entries explaining common literary forms found in the Bible. Each entry contains a succinct definition, helpful illustrations, and a representative list of passages where that particular literary form is present.

More than merely a dictionary, this indispensable resource will help Bible readers better understand the underlying structure of Scripture—giving a clearer shape and deeper meaning to each and every page of God’s Word.

“Coming from a world-renowned expert in the literary forms of the Bible and drawing on the expertise that can come only from a lifetime of college teaching, this marvelous new book will take its place as an essential reference work that should be in the library of everyone who seeks to study or teach the Bible in greater depth. Highly recommended.”
Wayne Grudem, Research Professor of Theology and Biblical Studies, Phoenix Seminary

“Here is a book, indeed, to keep at hand: it will hold a permanent place by my Bible. Leland Ryken illustrates the interrelationship between meaning and form in a manner that is erudite, accessible, and illuminating. Learning about literary forms in the Bible deepens our understanding and appreciation of Scripture, and glorifies our God as Author of all.”
Carolyn Weber, speaker; teacher; author of the critically acclaimed memoirs Surprised by Oxford and Holy Is the Day: Living in the Gift of the Present 

“This extremely useful book will be warmly welcomed by teachers, not only within churches, but also in college and university settings. A highly practical vade mecum for any serious reader of the Bible, for students of the Bible in its literary dimension it will become practically indispensable. Leland Ryken has made yet another superb contribution to our textual resources for biblical learning.”
David Lyle Jeffrey, Distinguished Professor of Literature and the Humanities, Baylor University

“Here is a reader-friendly handbook that will significantly enhance one’s understanding of the Bible. What a wonderful tool for pastors, laypeople, and students alike, who will now be able to benefit from Leland Ryken’s wise insights and marvelous literary skills. I heartily recommend this volume.”
David S. Dockery, President, Trinity International University

“A ready reference for scholars and general readers who wish to understand the Bible better and in its own terms, Ryken’s handbook needs to be on every serious Bible reader’s shelf and used often. A profoundly helpful resource.”
Michael Travers, Associate Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oklahoma Baptist University

“In this essential handbook, Ryken guides us to a proper understanding of the many literary forms of Scripture. Pastors and all readers of the Bible will deepen their understanding of God’s Word if they read this book cover to cover and keep it nearby for future reference.”
Tremper Longman III, Robert H. Gundry Professor of Biblical Studies, Westmont College

“Our kind Father has gone to great lengths to speak to us, yet sometimes our finite minds struggle to comprehend the complexities of his Word. This book will greatly enhance your ability to understand confusing passages, as well as see deeper richness in the old, familiar stories. Ryken helps you become more skillful at interpreting the Bible and knowing how to apply it accurately. The result will be a great increase in your love and admiration for our heavenly Father, who shares his heart with us in profound poetry, striking stories, colorful dialogue, and vivid imagery. Those who love Scripture, or want to love Scripture more, should read this book!”
Barbara Duguid, author, Extravagant Grace

“This is a genuinely helpful resource for all readers of the Bible, but it is an especially excellent reference for teachers and students of the Bible as literature. Ryken’s volume will help readers experience, enjoy, and understand the Bible in new ways. The breadth of entries is thorough and truly impressive. Individual entries are concise but include enough explanation and examples to successfully illustrate each literary form discussed. This book is written by an expert in literature and the Bible, and it shows.”
David V. Urban, Associate Professor of English, Calvin College

“This uniquely useful and accessible handbook will be a favorite among the tools used by serious students of the Bible. In recent decades, attention to the literary structures of the Bible’s various genres has become prominent. With all of the distractions of the modern world, study tools like this will help Christians to be imbued with the mind of Christ through his Word. I highly recommend this superb contribution to biblical studies.”
Gregory Reynolds, Pastor, Amoskeag Presbyterian Church, Manchester, New Hampshire; author, The Word Is Worth a Thousand Pictures: Preaching in the Electronic Age; editor, Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers

“Leland Ryken’s handbook is a well-conceived, concisely written, hugely helpful resource for students and teachers alike. Far from turning the Bible into ‘mere’ literature, Ryken draws us deeper into the authoritative and inerrant truths of the Scriptures. Just as we cannot know Christ apart from his incarnation as Jesus of Nazareth, so we cannot fully know the Bible until we understand the literary forms in which it was written.”
Louis Markos, Professor of English, Scholar in Residence, and Robert H. Ray Chair of Humanities, Houston Baptist University; author, Restoring Beauty: The Good, the True, and the Beautiful in the Writings of C. S. Lewis

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Do you read The Chronicles of Narnia sensing that the stories are full of biblical parallels, even if you're not always sure what they are or where to find them? This user-friendly companion to The Chronicles of Narnia is written for C. S. Lewis readers like you who want to discover the books' biblical and Christian roots. Read it, and you'll find that this chapter-by-chapter, book-by-book examination of The Chronicles will widen your spiritual vision.

'This cohesive and easy-to-follow guide serves as a fantastic parental teaching tool on a subject that kids love. . . . Every child who loves Narnia needs to have a copy of this guide to help the stories of Aslan come alive in a biblically relevant way.'
Ellie Kay, best-selling author of Heroes at Home

'This is a wonderful exploration of the biblical themes woven into The Chronicles of Narnia, with lively and helpful introductions and an uncontrived use of Scripture throughout.'
Paul McCusker, dramatist of The Chronicles of Narnia Radio Theatre

'Christin Ditchfield's love for children and reverence for the role of parents is evident in A Family Guide to Narnia. She gently, yet effectively, shines a light on God's truth, so we can all be better teachers to our children.'
Vicki Caruana, America's Teacher™, author of Apples & Chalkdust and The Homeschooler's Guide to…

'This is an important book that will help families learn more from the Bible and The Chronicles of Narnia.'
Lyle W. Dorsett, Billy Graham Professor of Evangelism, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

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Few Christians have had a greater impact during the last half of the twentieth century than Dr. Francis A. Schaeffer. A man with a remarkable breadth of cultural interest, with penetrating insight into modern life, and with a clear sense of spiritual reality, Schaeffer was also a man who cared deeply about people and their search for truth and reality in their lives.

With the publication of this Trilogy, Dr. Schaeffer's three foundational books are available for the first time in one volume. Schaeffer himself considered these three books to be essential to everything he wrote (twenty-three books in all), and it is here especially that we see his ability to understand the deep need of modern man for truth, beauty, and meaning in life.

In the first book, The God Who Is There, Schaeffer shows how modern thought has abandoned the idea of truth with tragic consequences in every area of culture–from philosophy, to art, to music, to theology, and within culture as a whole.

Escape from Reason, the second book, explains especially how the disintegration of modern life and culture grows from corrupted roots that reach far into the past.

In the last book, He Is There and He Is Not Silent, Schaeffer contrasts the silence and despair of modern life with the Christian answer that God can indeed be known because He is there and He is not silent. In addition to the convenience of having Schaeffer's three foundational books in one volume, the Trilogy is especially valuable in that it uses the text revised and updated by Schaeffer shortly before his death.

Why was Schaeffer able to understand and communicate so effectively to a generation? The best way to know is to find out firsthand, by reading his essential works as found in this Trilogy. Few who begin this journey will come to the end without having their life profoundly changed.

'What is the long-term significance of Francis Schaeffer? I am sure... that I shall not be at all wrong when I hail Francis Schaeffer--who saw so much more... and agonized over it so much more tenderly than the rest of us do--as one of the truly great Christians of my time.'
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

'There is no other important Christian thinker of our era who has tackled as many fundamental intellectual, philosophical, and theological issues as Schaeffer did, and no one else has so revealed their relevance to us.'
Harold O. J. Brown, Professor Emeritus of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

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'Useful men are some of the greatest blessings of a people. To have many such is more for a people's happiness than almost anything, unless it be God's own gracious, spiritual presence amongst them; they are precious gifts of heaven.'

Certainly one of the most useful men in evangelical history was the man who preached those words, pastor and theologian Jonathan Edwards. Commemorating his 300th birthday, general editors John Piper and Justin Taylor chose ten essays that highlight different aspects of Edwards's life and legacy and show how his teachings are just as relevant today as they were three centuries ago.

Even within the church, many people know little more about Edwards than what is printed in American history textbooks-most often, excerpts from his best-known sermon, 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.' They unjustly envision Edwards preaching only fire and brimstone to frightened listeners. But he knew and preached God's heaven as much as Satan's hell. He was a humble and joyful servant, striving to glorify God in his personal life and public ministry.

This book's contributors investigate the character and teachings of the man who preached from a deep concern for the unsaved and a passionate desire for God. Studying the life and works of this dynamic Great Awakening figure will rouse slumbering Christians, prompting them to view the world through Edwards's God-centered lens.

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Their love story is not one of fairy tales. It is one of faithfulness from the beginning through to its tragic ending.

Richard and Margaret Baxter had been married only nineteen years before she died at age forty-five. A prominent pastor and prolific author, Baxter sought consolation and relief the only true way he knew- in Scripture with his discipline of writing. Within days he produced a lover's tribute to his mate and a pastor's celebration of God's grace. It is spiritual storytelling at its best, made all the more poignant by the author's unveiling of his grief.

J. I. Packer has added his own astute reflections along with his edited version of this exquisite memoir that considers six of life's realities-love, faith, death, grief, hope, and patience. He guides you in comparing and contrasting the world's and the Bible's ideals on coping with these tides of life. The powerful combination of Packer's insights and Baxter's grief gives you a beacon if you are searching for God, a pathfinder for your relationships, and a lifeline if you are grieving.

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The meals of Jesus represent something bigger. They represent a new world, a new kingdom, a new outlook.

Tim Chester brings to light God’s purposes in the seemingly ordinary act of sharing a meal—how this everyday experience is really an opportunity for grace, community, and mission. Chester challenges contemporary understandings of hospitality as he urges us to evaluate why and who we invite to our table. Learn how you can foster grace and bless others through the rich fare being served in A Meal with Jesus.

“We all know fasting can be a spiritual exercise, but eating is really more like Jesus. In this book, Chester points out that Christianity was meant to be conducted at a table with the intimacy of a shared meal. Church was never meant to be holy services held in sacred buildings conducted by saintly men in long robes passing thin wafers and a thimble of juice—removed from real life. Chester rightly puts us back where we belong...at the table in front of a meal—a feast actually. This is an outstanding treatise on an important subject that was long ago lost in the mire of sacred rituals. It is time we come back to the table and enjoy the life given to us.”
Neil Cole, founder and director, Church Multiplication Associates; author, Organic Church

'I'm not sure I could name all the titles of the books Tim has now written. I've even written one or two with him. But this is the best so far, by far! It fed my soul and through it I enjoyed grace in a new way. In fact, the book is a sumptuous meal in its own right. Buy it, not just to read it, but to feast on it.'
Steve Timmis, Executive Director, Acts 29 Church Planting Network

“I have always told the congregations I've served that if you take the mountains and meals out of the Bible, it's a very short book. In a world of competing church models and strategies, Tim shows us that Jesus employed one practice over all others: Sharing a meal with people. This book serves as a poignant reminder that grace, mission, and community are never enacted best through programs and propaganda, but rather through the equality and acceptance experienced at the common table. May our lives never be too busy to live this out.”
Mike Breen, Global Leader, 3DM; author, Building a Discipleship Culture

“Tim Chester has a keen ability to reflect on gospel, community, and mission, making them accessible to the common person through the mess and movement of everyday life. Tim certainly accomplished this again in A Meal with Jesus. With each meal, my convictions about how the gospel informs all of life and relationships went deeper, and my affections for Jesus grew stronger. I want everyone in my church to read this book.”
Jeff Vanderstelt, Visionary Leader, Soma; Pastor, Doxa Church, Bellevue, Washington; author, Saturate

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He was one of the Bible's greatest leaders. A man of action who took on the incredible task of rebuilding ancient Jerusalem. He was dedicated. Wise. A zealous man who saturated himself with prayer. In all of this he helped set the standard for godly leadership. And yet you probably know nothing about him. He was Nehemiah.

Indeed, his Old Testament book reads like the memoirs of a pastoral leader and politician par excellence. In it Nehemiah tells how, with God's help and blessing, he went about rebuilding the city of Jerusalem and renewing her people. It is a spirited, first-person account of spiritual renewal. Yet Nehemiah can equally be read as a testimony to God's involvement with man. Using a Bible-study approach J. I. Packer looks at how Nehemiah led the people and how God led Nehemiah—all to ultimately build up His Kingdom. Through this book you will discover a model for revival in your own church.

A Passion for Faithfulness should be read by church and business leaders for its in-depth look at Nehemiah's example in these particular arenas. But anyone who thirsts for God and a sense of His presence in their everyday responsibilities will also be inspired by this book. Whether you're a stay-at-home mom trying to raise godly children or an employee who longs for God to make Himself real in even the most mundane task, this book will be a trusted help and a welcome reminder of God's desire to be involved in every facet of your life.

Part of the Living Insights Bible Study series.

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Paul's affection for the Corinthian church and his endurance through hardship for their joy testifies to his deep devotion to Christ. His example and instruction in this letter inspires us to find our joy in Jesus.

In both volumes of A Sincere and Pure Devotion to Christ, Storms provides readers with fifty daily meditations on this great epistle that are both accessible and substantive. His analysis and application of the biblical text make these meditations suitable for private devotions or small group studies, or as a commentary for Bible study, Sunday School lessons, or sermon preparation.

'There are few people on the planet who embody in life and in teaching the radically biblical and Edwardsian message of Christian Hedonism better than Sam Storms.'
John Piper, Founder, desiringGod.org; Chancellor, Bethlehem College & Seminary

'Sam Storms has served a splendid reflection on 2 Corinthians that will benefit readers at all levels. Those with no theological training will profit from an accessible and clear style, learning not only the rich content of 2 Corinthians, but also how to study the Bible and apply it to life. Those with questions about what happens after someone dies, or how to handle discouragement, or how we can be more confident in sharing our faith with others will find biblical answers. Pastors preparing for sermons on 2 Corinthians will appreciate Storms' interaction with commentators, his careful exegetical decisions, and the pastoral application of 2 Corinthians. This book is exegetically responsible, theologically profound, and pastorally relevant. I highly recommend it.'
Chris Brauns, Pastor, The Red Brick Church, Stillman Valley, Illinois; author, Unpacking Forgiveness, Bound Together, and When the Word Leads Your Pastoral Search

Storms in his usual clear, engaging, heartwarming style unlocks perhaps 'Paul's most personal and Christ-centered letter. You will be reminded afresh that everything really is all about Jesus. Release the life-changing power of this much neglected letter as Storms demonstrates that its message can change you in every way.'
Adrian Warnock, author, Hope Reborn and Raised with Christ

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Sex. Race. Scripture. Sovereignty. The book of Ruth entails them all. So readers shouldn't be fooled by its age, says Pastor John Piper. Though its events happened over 3,000 years ago, the story holds astounding relevance for Christians in the twenty-first century.

The sovereignty of God, the sexual nature of humanity, and the gospel of God's mercy for the undeserving-these massive realities never change. And since God is still sovereign, and we are male or female, and Jesus is alive and powerful, A Sweet and Bitter Providence bears a message for readers from all walks of life. But be warned, Piper tells his audience: This ancient love affair between Boaz and Ruth could be dangerous, inspiring all of us to great risks in the cause of love.

“This book surprised me at how it both comforted and convicted me. And in the midst of a difficult circumstance it inspired me to look for God's hand of providence. I can't think of anyone who wouldn't benefit from its call to purity, faith and Christ-centered hope. John Piper's God-given gifts as a teacher and pastor are on full display in these pages. Reading this book will serve your soul.”
Joshua Harris, Former Senior Pastor, Covenant Life Church, Gaithersburg, Maryland; author, Dug Down Deep

“We live in a relativistic culture, where people are more concerned with being liked than being truthful. In A Sweet and Bitter Providence, John Piper does an outstanding job of biblically defending key truths that the church often ignores. He gives us an example of how to take a bold and educated stand on issues of race, purity, and God’s sovereignty.”
Francis Chan, New York Times best-selling author, Crazy Love and Forgotten God

“With his usual clarity, candor, and insight, John Piper masterfully guides us through the short but powerful book of Ruth. More than a ‘little romance,’ Piper unpacks the book’s teaching on sovereignty, providence, grace, and glory. As we follow the account of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz, our own lives are enriched and transformed. I recommend this book to all who desire to know God better through his Word.”
Tremper Longman III, Robert H. Gundry Professor of Biblical Studies, Westmont College

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Advice books are no short-lived trend, even though much of the advice parading as “wisdom” proves shallow in the long run. What we need is biblical wisdom, and even more than that we need hearts set on the One who governs all our practicalities. The book of Proverbs unlocks the key to both, helping us to face very real challenges such as:

• handling our freedom, independence, and material resources wisely
• keeping ourselves sexually pure
• practicing biblical femininity in a world that scorns us for it
• sustaining God-glorifying marriages
• elevating biblical priorities ahead of day-to-day pressures

Exploring the timeless counsel in the book of Proverbs, A Woman’s Wisdom teaches us to know the very Author of wisdom and to apply his relevant, how-to riches.

“The book of Proverbs is a gold mine of divine wisdom, and Lydia Brownback applies that wisdom in very practical ways to the issues women face. This is one of those books that should be studied more than simply read, and I can see it as a valuable resource for women’s Bible studies.”
Jerry Bridges, author, The Pursuit of Holiness

“If only we could pull up a chair across from the purple-linen-wearing Proverbs 31 woman to observe her inner strength, listen to her confident laughter, admire her reverent fear, and absorb her wise ways. That’s what readers get to do through the pages of A Woman’s Wisdom as we’re invited to saturate ourselves in the source of true wisdom—the Scriptures—where we find what we need for living in a world full of distractions, decisions, dilemmas, disappointments, and delights. This book lends itself to quiet mornings of reflection on your own as well as vigorous discussions with a group of good friends.”
Nancy Guthrie, Bible Teacher; author, Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament Bible study series

“In a day when we’re often inclined to settle for helpful hints or pious platitudes, this book points us to the source of that rare commodity, true wisdom. Lydia Brownback has the depth of insight and the lightness of touch needed to make the book of Proverbs come alive for her readers. If your heart yearns for a solid place to stand in the shifting currents of your everyday life, you will find a sure guide and refreshing stream of truth here.”
Liam Goligher, Senior Minister, Tenth Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; author, The Jesus Gospel

“Halfway through the first chapter, I thought, ‘My wife would love this book.’ Halfway through the book, I thought, ‘I love this book!’ My reasons are manifold: Lydia Brownback’s study of Proverbs is biblical, practical, straight-forward, convicting, instructive, transformative, and Christ-centered. With wisdom, wit, and carefully crafted sentences, Lydia Brownback’s study of Proverbs helps women (and men!) to rest in the source of all wisdom, Jesus. See if you might ‘love’ the book as well.”
Douglas Sean O'Donnell, Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies and Practical Theology, Queensland Theological College; author, The Beginning and End of Wisdom

“The beauty of proverbs is that, by their very nature, they are timeless and ageless. The smallest child can memorize and apply them on a surface level while the oldest adult can meditate on them and apply them over a lifetime. In this wonderful book, Lydia Brownback applies the proverbs to today’s Christian woman. With equal parts sound interpretation and heartfelt application, this book offers that same timeless, ageless wisdom to a new generation of women.”
Aileen and Tim Challies, author, The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment; blogger, challies.com

“From the wisdom of Proverbs, Lydia Brownback draws wise and ever so practical applications for women. Her clear and consistent call is to embrace the full wisdom of God given to us in Christ.”
Kathleen B. Nielson, Director of Women’s Initiatives, The Gospel Coalition

“Lydia Brownback has provided women with an excellent resource for unlocking the wisdom of Proverbs.”
Josh Moody, Senior Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois; author, Journey to Joy: The Psalms of Ascent 

“It is so refreshing to read a book that handles the kinds of things that every woman will face from one single perspective; the stunning wisdom of God. Too often books like this start with cultural assumptions that only serve to weaken their effectiveness in the end. It is only God’s wisdom that can help us navigate the pressures and insanities of the surrounding culture and teach us the freedom of being what we were created to be and living as we were created to live. Read and experience how God’s wisdom is eloquent and transcendent while being concrete and practical at the same time.”
Paul David Tripp, President, Paul Tripp Ministries; author, What Did You Expect?

Specifications

Sanc●ti●fi●ca●tion | noun | ˌsaŋ(k)-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən
: a big word for the little-by-little progress of the everyday Christian life

Fighting sin is not easy. No one ever coasted into greater godliness. Christian growth takes effort. But we are not left alone. God loves to work the miracle of sanctification within us as we struggle for daily progress in holiness. With contributions from Kevin DeYoung, John Piper, Ed Welch, Russell Moore, David Mathis, and Jarvis Williams, this invigorating book will help you say no to the deception of sin and yes to true joy in Jesus.

“I love this book. One meets real holiness here and it has real drawing power. C. S. Lewis said it well when he quipped, ‘How little people know who think holiness is dull. When one meets the real thing, it is irresistible.’ The content in these chapters awakened within me a deeper hungering and thirsting for righteousness. I pray it will cause those same hunger pangs to spread so that many more will taste and see that the Holy One Himself is an irresistible treasure.”
Jason C. Meyer, Pastor for Preaching and Vision, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota

“The Reformed view of sanctification has resonated with me for a long time. More importantly, it is biblically rooted, realistic, hopeful, and doesn’t fall into the error of perfectionism. Now we have a wonderfully accessible presentation of the reformed view of sanctification. The scriptural support for a progressive view of sanctification is persuasively made. The realistic struggle that characterizes our lives is set forth, and the hope we have in Christ Jesus is proclaimed. I was encouraged and convicted in reading this work.”
Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“A great combination of theological insight and practical advice on one of the most important of all Christian doctrines.”
Douglas J. Moo, Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies, Wheaton College

“The Reformed and evangelical mind has recently concentrated much attention on the doctrines of justification and adoption, with many salutary effects. In some instances, however, concentration has degenerated into myopia, resulting in the distortion of the doctrine of sanctification. The present collection of essays is a helpful remedy to this situation. With chapters that are richly biblical, Christ-centered, and humane, Acting the Miracle refocuses our attention on the place and purpose of sanctification among the manifold works of the triune God. Readers will find this book both theologically and pastorally satisfying.”
Scott R. Swain, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology and Academic Dean, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, Florida

“This book is theologically informed and pastorally wise. It helpfully distinguishes and defines definitive and progressive sanctification, and it shrewdly shows how to approach Christian living without being reductionistic.”
Andy Naselli, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology, Bethlehem College and Seminary, Minneapolis, Minnesota

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The book of Acts records some of the most important events in the New Testament: the birth of the church, the coming of the Holy Spirit, bold preaching and dramatic missionary journeys. In addition to providing incredible insights into the growth of the apostolic church, Acts also encourages and challenges Christians today, spurring readers on to wholehearted devotion to Christ. In this newly revised, three-volume collection of sermons, famed preacher Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains the message of the first eight chapters of Acts with clear language and pastoral warmth. From Peter’s bold preaching to the dramatic stoning of Stephen, Lloyd-Jones points readers back to the foundational figures and key events of the Christian faith, emphasizing the basic truths undergirding genuine belief.

Part 1: Acts 1:1-5:14 (partial)
1. Christianity—The Only Hope (1:1–3)
2. The God Who Acts (2:1–2)
3. The Great Fact of Prophecy (2:14–36)
4. Becoming a Christian (2:37–40)
5. Mind, Heart, and Will (2:37–47)
6. Separation (2:37–42)
Part 2: Acts 5:17-7:29 (partial)
1. The Irrationality of Unbelief (5:17–32)
2. “All the Words of This Life” (5:19–20, 29)
3. The Content of the Message (5:29–32)
4. Man’s Great Problem (5:29–32)
5. Repentance—the Door to Forgiveness (5:29–32)
6. The Savior (5:29–32)
Part 3: Acts 7:29-8:30 (partial)
1. The God Who Intervenes (7:29–30)
2. The Miracle of Salvation (7:30–33)
3. God Has Come Down (7:30–35)
4. Complete Victory (7:35–36)
5. God Has Spoken (7:37–38)
6. The Word of God (7:37–38)

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God’s grand plan for the redemption of creation has been in motion since before time began. The book of Ephesians lays out this glorious vision, highlighting the coming of Christ’s kingdom on earth—a kingdom that will soon arrive in full. In Alive in Him, Gloria Furman leads us deep into the biblical text, exploring the main themes in Ephesians and showing us how the blessings we have received in Christ empower us to walk in a new way. Designed to be read alongside the biblical text, Alive in Him draws us into the plotline of Scripture, directing our gaze to the love of Jesus Christ—a love that has the power to transform how we live.

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Are you really a Christian?

You may think you are, but you may not be. After all, Jesus himself said that some people will do seemingly “Christian” things in his name but will not truly know him. Or maybe you know you are not a Christian and you wonder what it really means to be one.

To be sure, however, there is clarity from God’s perspective. He is not confused about who does and does not know him. And though our self-awareness is certainly limited, we have been given biblical criteria to help us evaluate whether we are indeed followers of Christ.

Mike McKinley shows us the importance of examining our standing with God and helps us to fearlessly ask the hard questions, ultimately allowing us to see whether we are in the faith and what exactly that entails.

Part of the 9Marks series.

“This is a truly important book in the most urgent sense—a book that serves the cause of Christ by raising the most important question human beings face, and helping to answer it, no less. I am thankful to McKinley for his faithfulness and for the pastoral concern that prompted him to write such an important work.”
R. Albert Mohler Jr., President and Joseph Emerson Brown Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“There can be no more important question than ‘Am I really a Christian?’ and Mike McKinley helps us answer it with great skill. He manages to challenge nominal Christians while comforting genuine believers. McKinley’s writing is accessible, engaging, and simple without ever being simplistic. I particularly appreciate the way he encourages us to explore this crucial question in the context of a Christian community. If you’re not sure where you stand before God, or you know someone who’s not sure, then this is the book for you.”
Tim Chester, pastor, Grace Church, Boroughbridge; Curriculum Director, Acts 29-Oak Hill Academy; author, You Can Change, A Meal With Jesus, and Good News to the Poor

“Can any question in life be as important as knowing whether you are right with God, whether you are going to Heaven or Hell? I’m quite sure that every person now in eternity—with not a single exception among the billions there—would affirm the urgency and priority of pursuing the answer to such a question. That’s why, if you have any uncertainties about the answer for your own situation, you should read this book. Some day, on a day as real as the one in which you entered the world, as real as the one in which you are reading these words, you will enter another world. There you will remain forever. Are you ready? If not, this book will help you understand how the Bible says to prepare.”
Donald S. Whitney, Associate Professor of Biblical Spirituality, Senior Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; author, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life

“Simple, piercing, winsome, practical, honest, direct and pastoral. If you know anyone questioning their conversion (or who should be questioning!), get this book!”
Dave Harvey, Pastor of Preaching, Four Oaks Community Church, Tallahassee, Florida; author, When Sinners Say I Do and Am I Called?

“Really, is there anything more important to know about ourselves than whether or not we are actually Christians? People have come up with a lot of different ways of thinking about that question—ranging from your ability to remember ‘praying the prayer,’ to possessing a signed card in your Bible from a revival meeting, to ensuring your ‘letter’ is safely tucked away in some church's filing cabinet. Examining ourselves to make sure we are in the faith is about a whole lot more than that, and McKinley offers good help for that kind of heart evaluation. This is good devotional material, good small group material; And I expect that for some, it will probably even turn out to be the first time they’ve truly understood the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Greg Gilbert, Senior Pastor, Third Avenue Baptist Church, Louisville, Kentucky; author, What Is the Gospel?

“Mike has always had the ability to talk about the mundane and serious aspects of life with both passion and depth in an endearing way. That is such a great and rare combination. Using those skills in his newest book, he references everyday experiences to explain much deeper and more important spiritual truths around the question of how do I know I am a Christian or not?”
Jackson Crum, Lead Pastor, Park Community Church, Chicago, Illinois

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The doctrine of God’s grace has sparked some heated controversies in the history of the Christian church. What are dispensations of grace? Is grace really irresistible? In Amazing Grace noted theologian Timothy George looks at some of these debated questions. Grounded in Scripture, his insights continually draw the reader back to the fundamental truth of God’s free and sovereign favor to ill-deserving sinners.

Originally written to address the “Calvinism controversy” brewing within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), this study was used in thousands of churches and study groups throughout the SBC and beyond. Now this popular primer on the basic themes of Reformed theology has been updated and expanded. Though written from George's Southern Baptist perspective, the book’s irenic tone appeals to a wide audience and shows how sound Reformed theology has taken root within several Reformation traditions.

“Reading this wonderful book resembles exploring a spiritual treasure trove. You encounter one sparkling insight after another regarding God’s marvelous grace. In accessible prose Timothy George helps us to understand better just how amazing God’s sovereign grace actually is. The book’s message will instruct, encourage, and refresh your Christian life. After all, God’s sovereign grace is a worthy subject for our daily reflection and most profound meditation.”
John D. Woodbridge, Research Professor, Church History and History of Christian Thought, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

“Amazing Grace by Timothy George is an amazing little book! It is biblical and practical, theological and missional. It delves into the mystery of divine sovereignty and human responsibility, providing wonderful insight while also allowing the tensions of Scripture to remain. I was blessed by the book the first time I read it. I enjoyed this edition even more.”
Daniel L. Akin, President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

“It is hard to be simultaneously boring and polarizing, but the Calvinism/Arminianism debates typically are both. The arguments are often filled with the kind of ‘bitter jealousy’ and ‘selfish ambition,’ the Scriptures identify as ‘demonic.’ Timothy George’s Amazing Grace is different. In this book, a world-renowned Christian scholar walks through the biblical texts about God’s purpose of grace in a way that is honest, easy to understand, and charitable to those who disagree. Whether you are a Calvinist, an Arminian, or somewhere in between, you’ll learn something from this book. You’ll also see modeled how to converse with those who disagree with you. And, more than all that, you’ll put the book down at the end and worship our love-driven, grace-filled God. This is the best book on God’s grace in print today.”
Russell D. Moore, President, The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission; author, Onward

“Biblically faithful, historically well informed, and irenic in tone, this wise work from the pen of Timothy George is a sure guide for anyone perplexed about questions of divine sovereignty, grace, and human responsibility. Highly recommended!”
Graham A. Cole, Dean and Vice President of Education and Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School   

“Historically informed, timely in its application, and gracious in spirit, George has given us a biblically-based and theologically-formed treatment of the amazing grace of God in the salvation of men and women. This lucid and readable work will be beneficial for many, especially those who struggle with the tensions involved in God’s initiative in our salvation and our response to God’s abounding grace for sinners. I am pleased to recommend this insightful treatment of this important theme, which will be particularly helpful to pastors, church leaders, and church study groups.”
David S. Dockery, President, Trinity International University

“Amazing Grace is a gracious and graceful defense of the doctrines of grace. Although this book began its life as a piece dedicated to helping Southern Baptists understand the dispute between Calvinists and non-Calvinists in their denomination, it should help anyone appreciate why the apprehension of God’s grace must be absolutely central to Christian life and worship. May many, by God’s grace, read it and adopt its wise and irenic posture to the various controversies that a biblically faithful affirmation of grace can arouse.”
Mark Talbot, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Wheaton College

Specifications

The vibrant and persuasive arguments of C. S. Lewis brought about a shift in the discipline of apologetics, moving the conversation from the ivory tower to the public square. The resulting strain of popular apologetics—which weaves through Lewis into twentieth-century writers like Francis Schaeffer and modern apologists like William Lane Craig, Josh McDowell, and Lee Strobel—has equipped countless believers to defend their faith against its detractors.

Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century uses Lewis’s work as the starting point for an absorbing survey of the key apologists and major arguments that inform apologetics today. Like apologists before him, Markos writes to engage Christians of all denominations as well as seekers and skeptics. His narrative, “man of letters” style and short chapters make Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century easily accessible for the general reader. But an extensive and heavily annotated bibliography, detailed timeline, list of prominent apologists, and glossary of common terms will satisfy the curiosity of the seasoned academic, as the book prepares all readers to meet the particular challenges of defending the faith today.

“Providing an overview of almost a century of Christian apologetics, Lou Markos’s volume Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century moves all the way from G. K. Chesterton and C. S. Lewis to postmodernism, the New Atheists, and former atheist Antony Flew’s newly found belief in the existence of God. Covering the relevant authors as well as their ideas and works, Markos writes in a popular, highly readable style that could be viewed as a conversational journey through each of these topics. Those interested in apologetics will find several major items of significance in this far-reaching and fast-paced text.”
Gary R. Habermas, Distinguished Research Professor and Chair, Philosophy Department, Liberty University

“This is a terrific book. I’ve read hundreds of books on the defense of the faith in recent years, and this is a stand out. Professor Markos uniquely weaves together theology, literature, history, science, and philosophy to produce a work of apologetics that is both erudite and thoroughly accessible. I enjoyed every page of it.”
Craig J. Hazen, Professor of Comparative Religion, Biola University

“It is in some ways shocking that every generation of Christians has to remind the broader culture that we in fact have arguments and reasons for our faith. But given the cultural hegemony and intellectual ubiquity of atheistic materialism and the way it has shaped our understanding of the good, the true, and the beautiful, it should not surprise us that our antagonists want to maintain that faith and reason are adversaries rather than, as John Paul II put it, ‘like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth.’ Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century is a readable antidote to a conventional wisdom that is indeed conventional but not wise.”
Francis J. Beckwith, Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies, Baylor University; author of Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice

“Lou Markos has joined the top rank of commentators on the work of C. S. Lewis and is a powerful apologist for the Christian faith in his own right. His command of the two great streams of Western thought—Christianity and classics—has enabled him to develop a winsome, sophisticated, and convincing body of work.”
Robert B. Sloan Jr., President, Houston Baptist University

“Happily, the discipline of apologetics is having something of a renaissance today. In the mix, it would make no sense to neglect the considerable significance of C. S. Lewis. He brought about a great resurgence of interest in the defense of the faith. Louis Markos has done us a great service by posting Lewis’s work in dialogue with the issues of the day, some which were surely contemporaneous with the Oxford pundit and some coming to prominence a bit later, though still issues he would have enjoyed engaging. This volume will help readers see how Lewis would have dealt with the issues of our day. In the end, it will remind readers of the vitality of the claim that the Christian faith is true.”
William Edgar, Professor of Apologetics, Westminster Theological Seminary

“Louis Markos is the Platonic form of the Christian college professor. His love of the Scriptures and his broad mastery of the Western tradition of the humanities makes him the model for a new generation of apologists rising from the universities. His lectures have been a great success with students young and old at the university and with the global audience of The Teaching Company. Readers will discover he is just as delightful in print as he is when roaming the front of a classroom.”
Hunter Baker, Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences, Union University; author, The End of Secularism

“Louis Markos has proved once again that he is one of today's foremost Christian apologists. Writing with the eloquence and accessibility that characterizes the work of his mentor, C. S. Lewis, he makes the rational case for faith with potency and aplomb. Mirroring the Bible in its structure, Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century begins with an “old testament” (part 1) in which the works of those latter-day prophets, Chesterton, Lewis, and Sayers, lay the foundation for the “new testament” (part 2) in which today's apologists defy and defeat the “new atheists” and other fashionable dragons. Apologetics for the Twenty-first Century shows Markos to be a twenty-first century apologist of the first and highest order.”
Joseph Pearce, Writer in Residence and Associate Professor of Literature, Ave Maria University; author, Through Shakespeare's Eyes and Literary Converts

“Drawing on the rich resources of leading twentieth-century apologists, Louis Markos has crafted a brilliant work of Christian defense. Like Lewis and Chesterton before him, Markos uses his literary wit and scholarly precision to capture both heart and mind as he presents Christian arguments and evidences. Whether you are a skeptic, seeker, or solid believer, your faith will grow as you read this book!”
Chad V. Meister, Professor of Philosophy and Theology, Bethel College; author, Evil: A Guide for the Perplexed    

Specifications

Humans are hardwired for awe.

Our hearts are always captured by something—that’s how God made us. But sin threatens to distract us from the glory of our Creator. All too often, we stand in awe of everything but God.

Uncovering the lies we believe about all the earthly things that promise us peace, life, and contentment, Paul Tripp redirects our gaze to God’s awe-inducing glory—showing how such a vision has the potential to impact our every thought, word, and deed.

“I still remember the first time I was in awe of God. It came after years of attending churches and calling myself ‘Christian.’ It was a major turning point in my life. It is an awe of God that inspires my major life decisions as well as my daily actions. Thank you, Paul, for getting beyond symptoms and getting at the heart of the matter. This book is brilliant, and I wish every believer would read it carefully. We live in a crazy time. We need books like this to help lay healthy foundations for our lives, so that we don’t spend our days overreacting to unpredictable events.”
Francis Chan, New York Times best-selling author, Crazy Love and Forgotten God

“Paul Tripp has a way of helping us to get beyond the surface. It is clear that Paul has thought through this subject deeply. Read this book and find yourself challenged and encouraged to stand in awe of the reality of God and to take him seriously because of it!”
Eric M. Mason, Lead Pastor, Epiphany Fellowship, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; President, Thriving; author, Manhood Restored

“Paul Tripp’s books always challenge me and draw me closer to Christ. This book is no exception. As followers of Jesus, we can sometimes get too comfortable with God. It’s easy to forget that part of knowing and loving God is revering him. If you will read this book with a hungry and humble heart, God will use it to deepen your passion for Christ as you rediscover just who God is and why we’re invited to revel in his awesome glory.”
Craig Groeschel, Senior Pastor, LifeChurch.tv; author, WEIRD: Because Normal Isn't Working

“Simply put, I read everything that Paul Tripp writes. I can’t afford to miss one word.”
Ann Voskamp, New York Times best-selling author, One Thousand Gifts

“Deep in the soul of every human being is a longing for transcendence, created by God himself. Yet all too often, our pursuits and passions fixate on things that will never satisfy. What we need most desperately is to fall to our knees in renewed awe of our Creator. In Awe, my good friend Paul Tripp motivates us to find that posture and delight in staying there.”
James MacDonald, Pastor, Harvest Bible Chapel, Rolling Meadows, Illinois; author, Vertical Church

“When you find yourself in awe of something, you never forget it. It changes you. I just finished reading this book, and I’m writing this at 2:45 a.m. in tears. Convicted—not of my sin but of my righteousness in Christ! In awe of who Jesus is and who I am in him! Tripp has tapped into something that I hope is like a defibrillator to the flatlined believer. We were made to live in awe; may we never forget this!”
Bart Millard, Lead Singer, MercyMe

1. Humanity
2. War
3. Ministry
4. Replacement
5. Amnesia
6. Transgression
7. Complaint
8. Materialism
9. Growth
10. Worldview
11. Church
12. Parenting
13. Work

Specifications

Herman Bavinck looms large as one of the nineteenth century's greatest Christian thinkers, contributing much to modern Reformed theology. Yet, despite his theological prowess, Bavinck was first and foremost concerned with being “a worthy follower of Jesus.” In this book, John Bolt—editor of the English edition of Bavinck’s four-volume masterpiece, Reformed Dogmatics—brings the great Dutch theologian’s life and work to bear on following Jesus in the twenty-first century, helping us see the direct connection between robust theology, practical holiness, and personal joy.

Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life series.

“To use the word timely for a book about a nineteenth-century Dutch theologian may seem inappropriate. But in this case the adjective is exactly right. Many of us have wanted to spread the word that Herman Bavinck’s theological perspective can contribute much to a renewal of the church’s life and mission today. Now in this book John Bolt has made the case in a concise and convincing manner!”
Richard J. Mouw, President, Professor of Christian Philosophy, Fuller Theological Seminary

“This obvious labor of love explores an important but insufficiently highlighted aspect of Bavinck’s thought. Leaving virtually no pertinent stone unturned throughout his life and published works, Bolt provides both a full presentation of Bavinck’s views and his own understanding of their continuing relevance for Christian discipleship today. Here is valuable instruction in Bavinck’s thought presented in a way that will also stimulate the reader’s own thinking on the issues raised.”
Richard B. Gaffin Jr., Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus, Westminster Theological Seminary

“Trinitarian, Christ-centered, and culturally engaged, Herman Bavinck immerses us into a vivid vision of the gospel of Jesus Christ. His rich theological imagination provides a compelling alternative to the many vapid, pragmatic approaches to faith today. John Bolt provides an accessible and illuminating guide to Bavinck’s theology of the Christian life in the most expansive sense: the Christian life of fellowship with God and others, in family, work, and politics. Bolt skillfully navigates these waters in order to open up the treasures of Bavinck for today’s church.”
J. Todd Billings, Gordon H. Girod Research Professor of Reformed Theology, Western Theological Seminary, Holland, Michigan

“Perhaps every generation in the church age could claim a need for Bavinck’s perspective on the Christian life. We can’t let our salt lose its saltiness and our light lose its brilliance—not now. Bavinck encourages us in this regard even as we are in the world, not of the world, and sent into the world. In one seamless volume, Bolt shows how Bavinck’s contributions help correct our nearsightedness as we become tethered to his conviction that the Word of God is ever living and ever active in every day.”
Gloria Furman, pastor’s wife, Redeemer Church of Dubai; author, The Pastor's Wife and Missional Motherhood      

“Not one square inch of nature, work, culture, or history escaped the reach of Herman Bavinck’s expansive Christ-centered worldview. Of the great Reformed theologians, Bavinck is the generous giant, with a heart as wide as his axiom ‘grace restores nature.’ Bavinck’s vision of a sovereign Savior at work in the world, carefully grounded in the gospel, suits him to speak authoritatively on the Christian’s place in this world. This book is a masterpiece from John Bolt, a man who knows Bavinck’s mind as well as anyone.”
Tony Reinke, Staff Writer and Researcher, desiringGod.org; author, Lit!: A Christian Guide to Reading Books

“Never before have I read such a fine and stimulating overview of Herman Bavinck’s life and theology. John Bolt shows clearly why the study of Bavinck is growing worldwide and why this theology is a great help for today’s Christians. Bavinck and Bolt are a great team!”
Herman Selderhuis, Professor of Church History, Theological University of Apeldoorn; Director, Refo500, The Netherlands

“Bolt’s portrait of Bavinck and his theology captures the man himself: clear, elegant, biblically saturated, theologically rich, philosophically nuanced, irenic, and aimed at the Christian life. Drawing on a diversity of sources, Bolt not only brings the riches of Bavinck’s mature theology into conversation with current theological concerns, but also applies it to the most practical elements of faith, marriage, family, work, and culture. He ably introduces readers to Bavinck’s vision of the Christian life as part of God’s movement of grace restoring nature and a cosmic redemption aimed at restoring and elevating creation to its intended goal. Most of all, it is a vision of following Jesus out into the world as the Father conforms his children into the image of the Son in the power of the Spirit for the sake of his glorious name.”
Derek Rishmawy, Director of College and Young Adult Ministries, Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Santa Ana, California

1. Introducing Bavinck: “A Worthy Follower of Jesus”

Part 1: Foundations for Christian Living

2. Created in God’s Image
3. The Law and the Duty of Christian Obedience
4. Union with Christ 69

Part 2: The Shape of Christian Discipleship

5. Following Jesus
6. A Christian Worldview

Part 3: The Practice of Christian Discipleship

7. Marriage and Family
8. Work and Vocation
9. Culture and Education
10. Civil Society

Concluding Sermon: “The World-Conquering Power of Faith”

Specifications

A long time ago a wise man named Shaddai built a wonderful village for children to live in. He talked to them and sang for them and told them stories. He gave them everything they needed. And with his own hands Shaddai built a protective wall around their village, rock by rock.

He did all of this for just one reason—because he loved them.

One day Paladin, the village's most curious child, discovers something troubling about the wall. Something that makes him wonder about Shaddai's love. Could there be a mistake?

Young Paladin is about to discover the answer. And when he does, he will come to understand just how deeply he is loved.

And so will you.

Everything God does for your children, He does because of love. He protects them. He listens to their prayers. He provides for their needs. He even gives warnings and sets boundaries—for no other reason than love.

As an adult you already know this. Now your children can know it too through this captivating tale, which was first published in the award-winning children's bestseller Tell Me the Story.

Let this timeless story of a curious boy's choice and a caring man's sacrificial response help you make the infinite love of their Heavenly Father as real to your kids as your own love. Because they need to understand about Him what you have already learned—that everything God does throughout our lives, He does for one reason only, and for the best reason of all: 'Because I Love You.'

Specifications

Enter into the greatest story ever told.

In this carefully researched retelling of the story of Jesus, Russ Ramsey invites us to rediscover our wonder at Christ's sinless life, brutal death, and glorious resurrection.

Featuring forty short chapters recounting key episodes from Jesus’s time on earth, this book expands on the biblical narrative in a fresh and creative way—giving us a taste of what it would have been like to walk next to Jesus and experience his earthly ministry firsthand.

“With a writer’s imagination and skill, a theologian’s backbone, and a disciple’s devotion, Ramsey weds knowledge to emotional resonance and information to immanence in this moving account of Jesus’s life. You will grow and delight as you travel with him.”
Dan Doriani, Vice President of Strategic Academic Projects and Professor of Theology, Covenant Seminary

“Russ Ramsey’s solid biblical teaching and storytelling are treasures that have deeply impacted my journey as a Christian working in Hollywood. His writing creates a deep hunger for God’s Word. This is a book I will give friends to help them understand what I believe about the meaning of the cross.”
Korey Scott Pollard, TV Producer and Assistant Director, A to Z, Grey’s Anatomy, House M.D., CSI, Monk, Rizoli & Isles, Nashville, Lie to Me

“I don’t know anyone who can make the stories—and the Story—in Scripture feel as present, as alive, and as sweeping as Russ Ramsey. His prose, his grasp of history and theology, not to mention his love of Jesus, does more than merely draw me into his book—it makes me want to read the Bible.”
Andrew Peterson, singer/songwriter; author, The Wingfeather Saga series

“Many of us have wondered at some point, ‘What would it be like to live when Jesus did?’ With purity to biblical truth and perceptive insight into how the human heart works, Russ Ramsey answers that question. He tells the story of Jesus dwelling among us—a story filled with political intrigue, baffling miracles, relational complexities, and heartbreaking suffering—by presenting old truths in engagingly fresh ways. Read this book! And then share it with others who need to witness Jesus anew.”
Jani Ortlund, Executive Vice President, Renewal Ministries; author, Fearlessly Feminine and His Loving Law, Our Lasting Legacy

“‘Behold’ means see with fresh understanding. Read this book to be renewed in your hopes—for today, for tomorrow, forever. Share this book with others, or read it to your children, so they may behold Christ too. Ramsey has succeeded at capturing and displaying the drama of Jesus—incarnate, dead, and risen—with memorable force.”
Robert W. Yarbrough, Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary

“It gives me great pleasure to endorse the life and writing of Russ Ramsey. We have been in the trenches together caring for the ‘called out ones.’ Russ gave us gospel immersion and fruits of deep care with Behold the Lamb of God. He continues this life-giving pattern of grace and service with this new, beautifully written book pointing to the Hero King Jesus.”
Charlie Peacock, author; teacher; Composer/Producer, AMC Drama, TURN; record producer for The Civil Wars, Switchfoot, and The Lone Bellow

“Ramsey has written a captivating narrative of the life of Jesus in a biographical style that captures the life of Jesus so vividly, at times you’ll wonder if Ramsey sat down and spoke with all the people involved in the story. It’s the story of a real man who walked this earth and died on a cross bearing the wrath we deserve. Historical and faithful to Scripture, Behold the King of Glory is a wonderful Bible-reading companion for the Lenten season.”
Trillia Newbell, author, Enjoy, Fear and Faith, and United

“There is a graceful simplicity to Ramsey’s prose—and to his retelling of the old familiar story—that enables him to truly move his readers with the potency of gospel. Here is a quiet voice that can shake stone.”
N. D. Wilson, author, Death by Living and Boys of Blur; Managing Editor, Credenda/Agenda Magazine; Fellow of Literature, New Saint Andrews College

“Ramsey’s ability to knit the accounts of the gospels into a highly readable, easily accessible, and grace-saturated narrative is a blessing for all. Telling the story of Jesus in bite-sized readings that can easily accord with anticipation and celebration of the Easter season makes this book a special gift.”
Bryan Chapell, President Emeritus, Covenant Theological Seminary; Senior Pastor, Grace Presbyterian Church, Peoria, Illinois

“This book throws open the curtains on Jesus and invites us to taste and see the only love that is better than life. This isn’t a great book just for the season of Lent, but for every season of life.”
Scotty Smith, Teacher in Residence, West End Community Church, Nashville, Tennessee

1. Life for the Dying (John 4:43–54)
2. Wild with the Hope (Matthew 4:1–11)
3. Behold the Lamb of God (John 1:19–51)
4. One Hundred and Fifty Gallons (John 2:1–12)
5. Destroy This Temple (John 2:13–25)
6. Zeus and the Pharisees (John 3:1–21)
7. Herod’s Half Brother’s Wife (John 3:22–4:3)
8. Famous (Luke 5:1–26)
9. Lord of the Sabbath (Luke 6:1–11)
10. Only Say the Word (Matthew 8–9)
11. The Death of John (Mark 6:14–29; Luke 7:18–35)
12. The Storm Treader (Matthew 14:22–33; Mark 6:45–56)
13. Bread of Life (Matthew 14:34–16:12; John 6:22–7:1)
14. You Are the Christ (Luke 9:18–36)
15. Before Abraham Was Born (John 7–8)
16. Born Blind (John 9–10)
17. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:1–37)
18. The Leaven of the Pharisees (Luke 11:29–13:35)
19. Lost Things Found (Luke 14–15)
20. Lazarus of Bethany (John 11:1–44)
21. A World Upside Down (Mark 10:35–45)
22. The Living Legend (Mark 10:46–52; John 12:9–11)
23. The King’s Coronation (1 Kings 1; Luke 19:28–36)
24. Hosanna (Luke 19:36–40)
25. The Vinedresser’s Tree (Matthew 21:18–22; Luke 13:6–9)
26. Indignation (Matthew 21:12–17)
27. John’s Baptism (Mark 11:27–12:44)
28. The Scent of Opulence (Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 13:3–13; John 12:1–8)
29. Thirteen Men (John 13:1–35)
30. The Last Cup (Mark 14:22–42, John 14)
31. Trial at Night (Matthew 26:47–68)
32. The Reckoning (Matthew 26:69–27:2; Mark 10:17–31)
33. What Is Truth? (John 18:28–19:16)
34. Crucifixion (Luke 23:26–46)
35. The Forgotten Day (Matthew 27:51–66)
36. He Is Not Here (Matthew 28:1–10; John 20:1–10)
37. Flesh and Bone (Matthew 28:11–15; John 20:11–29)
38. Do You Love Me? (John 21:1–23)
39. Behold the Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53; Luke 24:1–35)
40. Behold the King of Glory (Philippians 2:5–11; 1 Corinthians 15:3–49; 1 Peter 1:3–9; Romans 8; Revelation 21)

Specifications

Bess Stovall is famous for being famous. 'When it comes to Wemmicks, she's the best,' they say. Who wouldn't want to join her Wonderful Wemmicks Club? The catch is this: only Wemmicks made of maple can join–the best wood from the best forest.

But Punchinello can't join since he is made of willow. 'Willow is weak wood,' says Bess. 'No one wants to be a willow.' And Punchinello is the only willow in Wemmicksville. Everyone looks down on him, even his friend Lucia.

Punchinello learns a valuable lesson when Eli the woodcarver helps him see that he is special because the Maker made him–the Maker even chose his wood. This latest tale from Wemmicksville will surprise you as Punchinello himself shocks the town with how special he really is.

Part of the Max Lucado's Wemmicks series.

Specifications

'Everyone who believes in God at all believes that He knows what you and I are going to do tomorrow.'
–C. S. Lewis

This understanding of God's foreknowledge has united the church for twenty centuries. But advocates of 'open theism' are presenting a different vision of God and a different view of the future.

The rise of open theism within evangelicalism has raised a host of questions. Was classical theism decisively tainted by Greek philosophy? How should we understand passages that tell us that God repents? Are essentials of biblical Christianity–like the inerrancy of Scripture, the trustworthiness of God, and the Gospel of Christ–at stake in this debate? Where, when, and why should we draw new boundaries–and is open theism beyond them? Beyond the Bounds brings together a respected team of scholars to examine the latest literature, address these questions, and give guidance to the church in this time of controversy.

Contributors include:

• John Piper
• Wayne Grudem
• Michael S. Horton
• Bruce A. Ware
• Mark R. Talbot
• A. B. Caneday
• Stephen J. Wellum
• Justin Taylor
• Paul Kjoss Helseth
• Chad Brand
• William C. Davis
• Russell Fuller

'We have prepared this book to address the issue of boundaries and, we pray, bring some remedy to the present and impending pain of embracing open theism as a legitimate Christian vision of God. . . . As a pastor, who longs to be biblical and God-centered and Christ-exalting and eternally helpful to my people, I see open theism as theologically ruinous, dishonoring to God, belittling to Christ, and pastorally hurtful. My prayer is that Christian leaders will come to see it this way, and thus love the church by counting open theism beyond the bounds of orthodox Christian teaching.'
–From the Foreword by John Piper

'The downsized deity of open theism is a poor substitute for the real God of historic Christianity-as taught by Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox theologians through the centuries. This book offers an important analysis and critique of this sub-Christian view of God. Well researched and fairly presented.'
Timothy George, Founding Dean, Beeson Divinity School; General Editor, Reformation Commentary on Scripture

'Here is a weighty tract for the times, in which a dozen Reformed scholars survey the 'open theism' of Pinnock, Sanders, Boyd, and colleagues, and find it a confused, confusing, and unedifying hypothesis that ought to be declared off limits. Some pages are heavy sledding, but the arguing is clear and strong, and the book is essential reading for all who are caught up in this discussion.'
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

Specifications

Current Biblical interpretation is in a muddle state. Can the historicity of Scripture be placed in question but its authority and significance still be upheld? Can we be truly Christian while calling the reliability of biblical revelation into doubt? Gerhard Maier provides a Christian understanding of the science of biblical hermeneutics: the inspiration and authority of Scripture, the role of the canon, the historical nature of Scripture, current discussion of revelation and criticism, etc.

Citing the importance of the subject Maier says, 'Against long-standing and still virulent tendencies of modernity we must speak confidently of the history of God's dealings with mankind.' He adds, 'A communicative hermeneutic, a hermeneutic of encounter, seems essential at the present time. Yet this encounter with God will flourish only where the Bible is permitted to be no less than what God intends: namely, the Word of God.'

An outstanding work of biblical scholarship that will prove invaluable for all who desire a better grasp of the Bible in the modern world and especially for those in classes on biblical interpretation.

Specifications

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Deuteronomy 6:6-7a

Your children are a blessing from God. A gift that brings an abundance of joy and the privilege of teaching them God's ways. When they're young their potential to learn is amazing. And because actions and beliefs go hand in hand, the lessons they learn from you now will shape their lives forever.

This wonderful book, with its easy-to-use story format, can help you teach the basic truths of the Christian faith to your children. They'll learn right along with Caleb and Cassie that God's ways are the best—and that even as kids, they can live for His glory every day.

Specifications

Equips parents to guide their young children through all major doctrines in an understandable, chapter-a-day format.

Sure, it's easy to teach your children the essentials of Christian theology when you're a theology professor. But what about the rest of us?

With Big Truths for Young Hearts, Bruce Ware, (you guessed it!) a theology professor, encourages and enables parents of children 6-14 years of age to teach through the whole of systematic theology at a level their children can understand. Parents can teach their children the great truths of the faith and shape their worldviews early, based on these truths.

The book covers ten topics of systematic theology, devoting several brief chapters to each subject, making it possible for parents to read one chapter per day with their children. With this non-intimidating format, parents will be emboldened to be their children's primary faith trainers-and perhaps learn a few things themselves along the way.

'This is a great book for children and their parents on the classic doctrines of the faith. I heartily recommend it to every parent!'
Dennis Rainey, President and CEO, FamilyLife; host, FamilyLife Today; author, Stepping Up

'My conversion and discipleship as a young girl were significantly influenced by my parents reading to our family a book that taught biblical doctrine to children in a systematic way. The church today must be intentional in passing on to the next generation the core and precious beliefs on which our Christian faith rests. To neglect that responsibility is to leave those who come behind us vulnerable to every wind of (false) doctrine and to risk their rejecting our faith altogether. Big Truths for Young Hearts is a rich resource for parents, teachers, and others who care about helping the next generation know and love God and his ways. In addition to being a theology course for children and young people, it is also a great refresher course for adults.'
Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, author; radio host, Revive Our Hearts

'Imagine a respected theologian devoting himself to training a new generation of pastors and scholars in the seminary classroom. Now imagine him driving home at night to teach that profound theology in simple terms to his children at their bedsides. Now imagine this father compiling those bedside conversations into a book available to all pastors, parents, and children alike. Imagine no more. My friend Dr. Bruce Ware has done it.'
C. J. Mahaney, Senior Pastor, Sovereign Grace Church of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky

'I praise God that this book has been written and that a person of Bruce Ware's theological stature has taken seriously the potential of theological training in the first two decades of life. Although this tool can serve different instructional venues, I cannot help but see the gift this is to Christian parents and to dads in particular who are charged with the spiritual instruction of their children. The foreword alone is worth the price of this book and more than enough inspiration to follow Bruce's example in the faithful instruction of his two daughters. What Christian father would not want to be remembered by his adult children as a man who loved the gospel and who faithfully imparted the truth on which they now firmly stand. Dear brothers, imagine the impact on future generations if our children could grasp what has taken some of us decades to understand. Take this beautifully written, Bible-saturated, God-centered, theologically comprehensive summary of the truth and teach it diligently to your children, and until your children leave your home talk of it when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.'
David Michael, founder of Children Desiring God, Minneapolis, MN

Specifications

Just about everyone will face a difficult bioethics decision at some point. In this book a theologian, ethicist, and lawyer equips Christians to make such decisions based on biblical truth, wisdom, and virtue.

Though a relatively new discipline, bioethics has generated extraordinary interest due to a number of socially pressing issues. Bioethics and the Christian Life places bioethics within the holistic context of the Christian life, both developing a general Christian approach to making bioethics decisions and addressing a number of specific, controversial areas of bioethics.

Clear, concise, and well-organized, the book is divided into three sections. The first lays the theological foundation for bioethics decision-making and discusses the importance of wisdom and virtue in working through these issues. The second section addresses beginning-of-life issues, such as abortion, stem-cell research, and infertility treatments. The third section covers end-of-life issues, such as living wills, accepting and refusing medical treatment, and treatment of patients in permanent vegetative states.

Specifications

Winner of the 2012 Outreach Cross-Cultural Ministry Resource of the Year

Genocide. Terrorism. Hate crimes. In a world where racism is far from dead, is unity amidst diversities even remotely possible?

Sharing from his own experiences growing up in the segregated South, pastor John Piper thoughtfully exposes the unremitting problem of racism. Instead of turning finally to organizations, education, famous personalities, or government programs to address racial strife, Piper reveals the definitive source of hope—teaching how the good news about Jesus Christ actively undermines the sins that feed racial strife, and leads to a many-colored and many-cultured kingdom of God.

Learn to pursue ethnic harmony from a biblical perspective, and to relate to real people different from yourself, as you take part in the bloodline of Jesus that is comprised of “every tongue, tribe, and nation.”

“John Piper has given us an exquisite work on the matter of race. He addresses the issue with biblical and theological soundness coupled with personal sensitivity and practical advice. This is a must read for those who wish to pursue unity God’s way.”
Tony Evans, Co-founder and Senior Pastor, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship

“Americans have been turning to organizations, education, famous personalities, and ultimately government in an effort to address the on-going racial strife in our nation. In 2008 many hoped that the election of an African-American president would finally bridge this ongoing racial divide. Today, we are left wondering why racial tensions have not abated. John Piper argues from specific biblical texts that the only solution powerful enough to overcome racial strife and bring about racial reconciliation and harmony is the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is this gospel that announces that, through his blood, Jesus has demolished the dividing wall that separates humanity along racial lines and has brought all ethnicities together as brothers and sisters into one body—the church. Yet Piper does not end there. He carefully shepherds us through the various implications of gospel thinking in relation to race and ethnicity. In this sense, the book you hold in your hands is so much more than a book about race and ethnicity. Bloodlines is a prime example of how we Christians are to do the hard work of renewing our minds by replacing old ways of thinking with gospel ways of thinking. Read this book and let it serve as a model of how to prepare your mind for action and think soberly about God, your sin, Christ, the gospel, and one another for the sake of your soul, Christ’s church, and God’s glory.”
Juan R. Sanchez, Jr., Senior Pastor, High Pointe Baptist Church, Austin, Texas

“For years, I have yearned for a biblically sound, theologically anchored resource on race. God has answered that prayer. Leaping off the pages of Bloodlines is the power of the gospel to overcome and defeat racism and a call to cross-centered, holy justice in our attitudes and actions toward those who are not like us. This is an important, foundational work and I am sure it will be used of God to remind all of us of the power and precious, priceless dignity of the gospel.”
Crawford W. Loritts Jr., Senior Pastor, Fellowship Bible Church, Roswell, Georgia; author, A Passionate Commitment

“Piper bequeaths an outstanding—and at times, risky—work on race and ethnicity, thoroughly soaked in the biblical Christian Hedonism worldview. I found that Piper’s personal testimony from the 1960s until now and his exploration of critical thinking of African American writers past and present demonstrate the complexity of dealing honestly with the topic for the evangelical who seeks to honor the Savior. He is right: on race, ‘we have fallen together.’ The only question that remains is whether or not individual members of the evangelical church in America will take deeply to heart this sincere analysis of the cross of Christ and race and then become a steadfast holy force for undoing the problems of racism in North America and the world.”
Eric C. Redmond, Assistant Professor of Bible, Moody Bible Institute; Pastor of Adult Ministries, Calvary Memorial Church, Oak Park, Illinois

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Dietrich Bonhoeffer died a martyr’s death at the age of 39 but remains one of the most influential and challenging theologians of our time. His writings teach us the value of cross-centered theology, and his courageous actions against the Nazi regime compel us to consider the cost of discipleship. From Bonhoeffer we learn that the Christian life is lived both alone and together, and that there is a stark difference between cheap and costly grace. With insight, clarity, and wisdom, Stephen Nichols guides us through the words and deeds of this humble yet heroic pastor, whose example shows us that the Christian’s life flows from the cross, for the world.

Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life series.

“How I rejoice to see thinkers of Stephen Nichols's caliber applying their fine minds to the life and thought of the inimitable Dietrich Bonhoeffer. There’s so much yet to be written about this great man. A hungry readership awaits!”
Eric Metaxas, New York Times best-selling author, Miracles and Bonhoeffer

“This book will quicken your pulse as you are drawn into the story and the example of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Stephen Nichols brings a long and complex life to a point of ongoing personal application. This book prompted me to pray for the kind of courage that comes only after intense communion with the living God. Read and be strengthened.”
Russell D. Moore, President, The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission; author, Onward

“‘Human weakness paves the way for God’s grace.’ So writes Stephen Nichols, using Dietrich Bonhoeffer as a guide to the Christian life. But how could a man who stood up to Hitler be considered weak? That’s what makes Bonhoeffer so fascinating, and why he deserves your attention. Nichols helpfully brings Bonhoeffer’s Christ-centered insights to bear on issues where we need to grow in grace, such as confession, freedom, and love.”
Collin Hansen, Editorial Director, The Gospel Coalition; author, Blind Spots

“Bonhoeffer was a unique man who understood the power of both conviction and compassion, clarity and ambiguity, narrative and poetry. Through this man the church is powerfully reminded that all theology is lived theology. In this book, Steve Nichols takes us into Bonhoeffer’s complex world and offers a rich set of reflections on such crucial themes as cross, community, and the living Word. Here the reader discovers a wonderful mixture of fair-minded historical reconstruction and wise pastoral counsel.”
Kelly M. Kapic, Professor of Theological Studies, Covenant College

“Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life illustrates the truth that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. His courageous stand against the Nazi regime is a powerful testament to his cross-centered theology and belief that weakness is the starting point for Christian spirituality. With insight, clarity, and wisdom, Stephen Nichols guides us through the life and work of this humble yet heroic pastor, whose example shows that all Christian living flows from God’s grace in the cross of Christ.”
Justin S. Holcomb, Episcopal Priest; Professor of Christian Thought, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary; coauthor, Rid of My Disgrace and Is It My Fault?  

Specifications

Dietrich Bonhoeffer is best known for his role in a plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler and his subsequent execution at the hands of the Nazis. However, most of us are less familiar with his tireless work educating seminary students for a life of pastoral ministry—a role that occupied him for most of his adult life.

Anchored in a variety of influential lectures, personal letters, and major works such as The Cost of Discipleship and Life Together, this book attempts to recover a largely unexamined part of Bonhoeffer’s life, exploring his philosophy and practice of theological education in his original context. It then builds on this foundation to address the drift toward increasingly impersonal educational models in our own day, affirming the value of personal, face-to-face seminary education for the health of pastors and churches.

“This is the best book I have read on Dietrich Bonhoeffer the theological educator. Against great odds in the time of Nazi terror, Bonhoeffer forged a distinctive pattern of preparing faithful ministers of the gospel for the service of the church. Paul House argues convincingly that those engaged in the same work today have much to learn from Bonhoeffer’s model.”
Timothy George, Founding Dean, Beeson Divinity School; General Editor, Reformation Commentary on Scripture

“In all the writing about Bonhoeffer, few scholars focus on his work as a seminary leader. As a result, we forget that one of his most famous works, Life Together, emerged from such a community. Paul House dares to apply this and other Bonhoeffer works to the challenges facing contemporary seminaries. Even those who ultimately disagree with House’s argument for life-on-life education will benefit from reading his countercultural critique.”
Collin Hansen, Editorial Director, The Gospel Coalition; author, Blind Spots

“While the circumstances Bonhoeffer and his students faced are very different from the challenges facing seminaries today, Paul House illustrates why Bonhoeffer’s approach to theological education and the ministry remains a model for today’s seminary leaders and their students. This is a fine, thoughtful study of Bonhoeffer’s approach to theological education and its implications for the complex, changing world of seminary education today.”
Victoria J. Barnett, General Editor, Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works, English Edition

“Paul House not only offers a primer on an often-neglected role of Bonhoeffer’s life, but also insightfully critiques much of contemporary American higher education—theological or otherwise. Reading this splendid book might not alleviate all the ills of modern higher education, but House certainly leaves educators and administrators with fewer excuses.”
Richard A. Bailey, Associate Professor of History, Canisius College; author, Race and Redemption in Puritan New England

“The church in North America just passed the sign announcing dangerous rapids ahead. We need strong pulpits. What’s more, we need faithful theological training. Paul House draws our attention to the courageous wisdom found in Dietrich Bonhoeffer. We know Bonhoeffer for his classic texts and for his resistance to Hitler. But he also directed a seminary. Listen to Bonhoeffer. He will help us navigate what lies ahead.”
Stephen J. Nichols, President, Reformation Bible College; Chief Academic Officer, Ligonier Ministries

“With clarity and verve, Paul House ably demonstrates, synthesizes, and applies Bonhoeffer’s historic insights into theological education. The result is a timely and fresh reclamation of our life together for the church and for colleges and seminaries seeking to come alongside the church in discipling future pastors. A must read for professors, pastors, administrators, and students who want to know the what, why, and how of theological education.”
Christopher W. Morgan, Dean and Professor of Theology, California Baptist University

“Bonhoeffer’s prescription for seminary training should only be followed if we want to see a generation of ministers characterized by faithfulness, courage, and community. Otherwise, we can continue in the same path we’re on, where pastors learn to be entertainers, life-coaches, and pop-psychologists. Thank God that during this current revival of interest in Bonhoeffer, Paul House had the wisdom to focus on what Bonhoeffer knew best and did so very well.”
C. Ben Mitchell, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs and Graves Professor of Moral Philosophy, Union University

1. Bonhoeffer’s Path to Seminary Ministry
2. Bonhoeffer and His Seminaries
3. Ministers for the Visible Body of Christ: The Seminary and The Cost of Discipleship
4. A Visible Community of the Body of Christ: The Seminary and Life Together
5. Visible Faithful Witnesses: The Seminary and Perseverance
6. Life Together Today: Some Possibilities for Incarnational Seminaries

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A love for reading is one of the most precious gifts that we can give children. It nurtures their imagination and creativity, lets them explore other worlds, and opens their minds to new truths and knowledge in appealing, inspiring ways. But how can we sort through thousands of children's books to discover the really worthwhile ones?

Elizabeth Wilson offers us a newly revised, comprehensive guide to the very best in children's literature. Just as in the original volume, she comments on the tone and content of excellently written, captivating books in over two dozen subject areas. Hundreds of new titles have been added while retaining timeless classics and modern favorites-all of which respect traditional values. So that no matter what the children's ages are or whether they love fact or fiction, you can trust these books to share things that you can believe in and kids will delight in.

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John Calvin, a man adored by some and maligned by others, stands as a legendary figure in Christian history. In Calvin on the Christian Life, professor Michael Horton offers us fresh insights into the Reformer’s personal piety and practical theology by allowing Calvin to speak in his own words.

Drawing not only from his Institutes and biblical commentaries, but also from lesser-known tracts, treatises, and letters, this book will deepen your understanding of Calvin’s theology and ministry by exploring the heart of his spiritual life: confident trust and unwavering joy in the sovereign grace of God.

Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life series.

“Be warned. This looks like a book on how Calvin thought about living the Christian life. But open it and you will discover that Mike Horton is driving you on a grand Calvin tour of the whole of theology. And that, of course, is Professor Horton’s (and John Calvin’s) point: it takes the whole biblical gospel to make a whole Christian life. By employing the classical formulation of the two natures of Christ (‘distinct but not separate’), Dr. Horton provides readers with a key to help unlock Calvin’s teaching. But more than that, he shows why the Genevan Reformer’s vision of the Christian life remains unsurpassed. Thoroughly satisfying, thoroughly enjoyable, and thoroughly recommended.”
Sinclair B. Ferguson, Professor of Systematic Theology, Redeemer Seminary, Dallas, Texas

“Learned and lucid, masterfully organized, and vigorously expressed, this full, solid, and exact study of Geneva’s reforming pastor is an outstanding piece of work. In all four sections Calvin comes to vigorous life. Calvin’s reputation for godly wisdom, and Horton’s for vivid writing, will certainly be enhanced.”
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

“Calvin on the Christian Life provides an amazingly personal and comprehensive portrait of the Reformer’s passions and positions, constantly connecting them to issues of belief and practice in our day. Far more than a synthesis of Calvin’s thought and practice, this book provides readers with an intimate glimpse into his private piety.”
Nancy Guthrie, Bible Teacher; author, Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament Bible study series

“Scholar and pastor Michael Horton has provided us with a well-researched introduction to John Calvin’s doctrine of piety—Calvin’s word for the reverence and love that the gospel produces in all our relationships. One of the most intriguing aspects of Horton’s book is the way he traces the theme of ‘distinction without separation’ through the Christian life, whether with respect to the two natures of Christ, grace and the sacraments, or church and state. This book will enlighten beginners and refresh and challenge veterans in the field.”
Joel R. Beeke, President, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary

“Making use of the most recent in Reformation research, as well as letting the sources speak for themselves, Michael Horton gives us a wonderful overview of how John Calvin saw the life of the Christian. The book demonstrates the open attitude Calvin had toward living in this world and does away with the caricatures that still surround this Reformer. Horton’s book is both academic and practical—a rare but very welcome combination.”
Herman Selderhuis, Professor of Church History, Theological University of Apeldoorn; Director, Refo500, The Netherlands

1. John Calvin on the Christian Life: An Introduction
2. Calvin on the Christian Life: In Context
Part 1: Living before God3. Knowing God and Ourselves
4. Actors and Plot
Part 2 Living in God
5. Christ the Mediator
6. Gifts of Union with Christ
Part 3: Living in the Body
7. How God Delivers His Grace
8. The Public Service as a “Celestial Theater” of Grace
9. Bold Access: Prayer as “The Chief Exercise of Faith”
10. Law and Liberty in the Christian Life
11. God’s New Society
Part 4: Living in the World
12. Christ and Caesar: The Two Kingdoms
13. Vocation: Where Good Works Go
14. Living Today from the Future: The Hope of Glory

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Attacks on the historical reliability of the Gospels—especially their portrayal of Jesus Christ—are nothing new. But are these attacks legitimate? Is there reason to doubt the accuracy of the Gospels? By examining and refuting some of the most common criticisms of the Gospels, author Mark D. Roberts explains why we can indeed trust the Gospels, nearly two millennia after they were written.

Lay readers and scholars alike will benefit from this accessible book, and will walk away confident in the reliability of the Gospels.

'Can We Trust the Gospels? is quite simply the best effort I have ever read by a serious scholar to communicate what scholars know about the Gospels and why that should indeed encourage us to trust them and thus to trust Jesus Christ.'
Hugh Hewitt, nationally syndicated radio talk show host; Professor of Law, Chapman University

'There is a crisis of confidence about the Gospels, fueled by sensational claims about supposedly new Gnostic Gospels with a 'revised standard' view of Jesus. As Mark Roberts makes clear, the earliest and best evidence we have for the real Jesus is the canonical Gospels, not the much later Gnostic ones.'
Ben Witherington III, Professor of New Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary, author of What Have They Done with Jesus?

'This book not only makes a compelling case for trusting the Gospels, it illuminates the creative ways in which God worked to bring us His Word. Roberts's brilliant little book deserves to be widely read by both skeptics and believers.'
Joe Carter, Senior Editor, Acton Institute; co-author, How to Argue Like Jesus

'What F. F. Bruce did for my generation of students, Mark Roberts has done for the current generation. Any student who asks me if our Gospels are reliable will be given this book, and then I'll buy another copy for the next student!'
Scot McKnight, Karl A. Olsson Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies, North Park University

Specifications

This study of the New Testament canon and its authority looks deeper than the traditional surveys of councils and creeds, mining the biblical text itself for direction in understanding what the original authors and audiences believed the canon to be. Canon Revisited distinguishes itself by placing a substantial focus on the theology of canon as the context within which the historical evidence is evaluated and assessed. In effect, this work successfully unites both the theology and the historical development of the canon, ultimately serving as a practical defense for the authority of the New Testament books.

“This book fills a lacuna in evangelical scholarship. Rarely does academic specialization in canon studies converge with thorough commitment to biblical authority. In this work, close evaluation of the history of approaches to the canon is matched by a richly theological interpretation of what it means to call Scripture our ‘canon.’ Careful, accessible, and wise in his explorations, Michael Kruger has given us a gift that will keep on giving for generations to come.”
Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics, Westminster Seminary California; author, Core Christianity: Finding Yourself in God's Story

“The Christian canon of Scripture is under fire now more than ever. Sadly, even as so much of this fire has been issuing from academic quarters, we are left with more smoke than light. Stepping into the gap with a fresh synthesis is Michael Kruger’s Canon Revisited. Gracefully uniting theology and history, Kruger invokes the chief Reformed argument for canon and gives it fresh wings.”
Nicholas Perrin, Dean, Wheaton College Graduate School

“Of all the recent books and articles on the canon of Scripture, this is the one I recommend most. It deals with the critical literature thoroughly and effectively while presenting a cogent alternative grounded in the teaching of Scripture itself. Michael Kruger develops the historic Reformed model of Scripture as self-authenticating and integrates it with a balanced appreciation for the history of the canon and the role of the community in recognizing it. This is the definitive work on the subject for our time.”
John M. Frame, J. D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando

“Michael Kruger has written the book on the canon of Scripture that has been much needed for a long time. His focus is not on the process, but on the vitally important question of how Christians can know that they have the right books in their canon of Scripture. The question is an excellent one and needs to be addressed honestly and competently. Kruger does just that. This excellent book goes a long way toward clearing up confusion and misguided theories. I highly recommend it.”
Craig A. Evans, Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Acadia Divinity College and Acadia University

“Here, finally, is what so many pastors, seminary professors, and students have long been waiting for: a clear, well-informed, and scripturally faithful answer to the question of how Christians should account for the New Testament canon. Perhaps not since Ridderbos’s Redemptive History and the New Testament Scriptures has there appeared such a valuable single source on the New Testament canon that is both historically responsible and theologically satisfying (and this book improves on Ridderbos in many ways). Michael Kruger’s work will help readers get a handle on what may seem like a myriad of current approaches to canon, whether ecclesiastical or critical. This book will foster clearer thinking on the subject of the New Testament canon and will be a much referenced guide for a long time to come.”
Charles E. Hill, Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary

“Michael Kruger has written an important and comprehensive treatment of the New Testament canon. As an advocate of the self-authenticating view, he goes to great lengths to argue his case, but he also delves deeply into the variety of historical and community-based positions. He provides an insightful treatment of epistemological grounds for belief, and debates the positions in a rigorous way not often found in such discussions. I am sure friend and foe alike will learn from this valuable volume.”
Stanley E. Porter, President, Dean, and Professor of New Testament, McMaster Divinity College; author, Verbal Aspect in the Greek of the New Testament

“Canon Revisited is a well-written, carefully documented, and helpful examination of the many historical approaches that have been written to explain when and how the books of the New Testament were canonized. The author’s interest, however, is to move beyond the historical to the theological, concluding that the concepts of a self-authenticating canon and its corporate reception by the church are ultimately how we know that these twenty-seven books belong in the New Testament.”
Arthur G. Patzia, Senior Professor of New Testament, Fuller Theological Seminary; author, The Making of the New Testament

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We’re all searching for contentment. Whether it's in relationships, families, jobs, finances, or something else entirely, we all want to be happy and fulfilled. And yet, all too often we find ourselves disappointed with what God has given us. But the apostle Paul says that he learned the “secret” of being content in any and every situation. Is this level of contentment possible for believers today? In this immensely practical book, Erik Raymond teaches us what contentment is (the inward gracious spirit that joyfully rests in God's providence) and how we can learn it through the same Holy Spirit who was in Paul. Wisely and winsomely, this book helps us discover the key to contentment, encouraging us to trust in God rather than our circumstances—no matter what life brings our way.

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The Complete Chiveis Trilogy

Four hundred years from now a deadly virus and nuclear war have destroyed the modern world. Those who survived have returned to a medieval-like age of swords, horses, and feudal kingdoms. Yet the breathtaking mountain realm of Chiveis lives in peace, protected from the outside empires and obedient to its own gods.

But when Teo, an army scout, and Ana, the beautiful daughter of a farmer, discover an ancient book, everything begins to change in Chiveis—old beliefs give way to new faith, persecution rises, and the kingdom’s darkest secrets begin to surface.

Journey with Teo and Ana as they discover a faith that was all-but forgotten—and see for yourself how the truth can set you free.

“Theologian and scholar Bryan Litfin has accomplished a rare feat—he has fashioned a land and time unique to any reader’s experience.”

Jerry B. Jenkins, author, The Left Behind series

“Ever wonder about a world with an ‘almost-absence’ of God? Theologian turned ‘futurist’ Bryan Litfin provides us a compelling tale of the endurance of God’s amazing love—even to a distant remnant.”
Mark Elfstrand, Executive Producer/Host, Morning Ride, Moody Radio, Chicago, Illinois

“Litfin draws readers into an evocative post-apocalyptic world, where the true faith is emerging from the ashes of the past—a faith the enemy is intent on destroying. A suspenseful story, skillfully woven with characters who risk their lives for loyalty, honor, and truth.”
C. S. Lakin, author, Someone to Blame and The Wolf of Tebron

“A captivating narrative that journeys into the discovery of a living religion that seems lost and unrecoverable, this tale imagines how a sovereign God might reveal its mysteries anew. Any lover of theology and Western history would enjoy watching believers uncover lost symbols and writings, piecing together the greatest paradoxes of the faith in the drama of a fictional narrative. Action, conspiracy, romance, and faith combine in a tale depicting how the treasured beliefs of Christianity might first appear to a generation that had never seen its wonders.”
W. Brian Shelton, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Toccoa Falls College

“Few authors touch my heart so deeply that all of their books make my favorites list, but Bryan Litfin has done it with this series.”
Michelle Sutton, author, Letting Go and It's Not About Me

“Pulling us into the future to reveal the past, Bryan Litfin’s great what-if story discovers instead what is, laying bare the tendencies of the human soul, the strategies of our adversary, and the gentle sovereignty of the eternal God. In the Chiveis Trilogy, discovering truth is as exciting as discovering love, for, as Litfin skillfully portrays, they are one and the same.”
Amy Rachel Peterson, author, Perpetua: A Bride, A Martyr, A Passion

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Amid a revival of apologetics, “few things could be more useful than an acquaintance with how Christian faith was defended down through the ages,” say the editors in their introduction to this two-part anthology. “Access to both historical and contemporary texts gives us fresh insight into how our fathers in the faith responded to the questions facing them.”

Volume 2 in this one-of-a-kind resource takes a sweeping look at apologetics from the Reformation to the present. Readings from twenty-six apologists, including Martin Luther, John Calvin, Blaise Pascal, Jonathan Edwards, Søren Kierkegaard, Francis Schaeffer, Alvin Plantinga, and William Lane Craig are included. With editorial commentary and questions for reflection, Christian Apologetics Past and Present will prove a valuable text for students as well as a unique resource for those interested in defending the faith.

“The texts here assembled are ‘classics’—not in the sense that they answer all legitimate questions about Christianity, but that, when they were written, they made their readers think hard about the faith, and that they continue to do so today. This is a most worthy collection.”
Mark A. Noll, Francis A. McAnaney Professor of History, University of Notre Dame; editor, Protestantism after 500 Years  

“Bill Edgar, one of evangelicalism’s most valued scholars and apologists, has given us in this work with Scott Oliphint a classic destined to be used for generations. I highly recommend it to all who are called to defend the faith.”
Charles Colson, founder, Prison Fellowship and the Colson Center for Christian Worldview

“This collection is superbly done and will bring much needed wisdom to our own times.”
David F. Wells, Distinguished Senior Research Professor, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

“For years I have wanted a book of primary sources in apologetics to use in my classes. Now we have an excellent one in this volume.”
John M. Frame, J. D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando

“Edgar and Oliphint have skillfully selected the best pre-Reformation sources. Their volume, the first of two, fills a gap in scholarly resources and highlights the strength, wisdom, and solidity of defenders of the faith in earlier times.”
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

“This reader on the classical traditions of Christian apologetics is, to my knowledge, unmatched in basic compendia. It will equip and encourage thoughtful Christians to develop equally compelling defenses of the faith.”
Max L. Stackhouse, De Vries Professor of Theology and Public Life Emeritus, Princeton Theological Seminary

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The True Meaning of Christmas

No other time of the year is filled with as much excitement and gleeful expectancy as Christmas, and no one seems to enjoy the season more than children. Christmas is a time for making memories. And musical memories are one of the most precious gifts we can give the children we love.

Authors Joni Eareckson Tada and Bobbie Wolgemuth offer some of their favorite Christmas carols in this collection for children to cherish. This treasure book will give your children a special vision of the true meaning of Christmas.

Let the children you love celebrate the joy and warmth of Christmas with heartwarming stories and singing along with Joni, Bobbie, and the children on the enclosed richly orchestrated CD.

Passing along a favorite Christmas tradition has never been easier or more fun. This yuletide collection features twelve timeless and traditional Christmas carols with delightful stories from the Bible, devotionals, simple piano music, guitar chords, and beautiful original illustrations by Sergio Martinez.

'Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!'
-2 Corinthians 9:15 (ESV)

In this third volume of Hymns for a Kid's Heart, Joni Eareckson Tada and Bobbie Wolgemuth collaborate to help you teach twelve classic Christmas carols to the children you love. With richly orchestrated music, true stories, prayers, and Scripture, Christmas Carols for a Kid's Heart will feed your child's soul during the Christmas season.

KIDS WILL:

• Be inspired by the true stories of the songwriters.
• Connect with tenderly written devotionals.
• Learn to sing twelve classic Christmas carols.
• Practice piano and guitar with printed music.
• Understand more about God's character and grace.
• Memorize a Bible verse with each hymn.
• Learn to pray along with their singing.

ADULTS WILL:

• Give children a lasting musical treasure.
• Experience the pleasure of filling young hearts with joy.
• Be equipped with the tools to teach children twelve classic Christmas carols.
• Enlighten young people with an understandable theology.
• Enjoy prayer and Bible memorization along with kids.

Includes a fully orchestrated CD with children's voices singing along with Joni and Bobbie, and simple piano music with guitar chords.

Listen to Excerpts from the CD

1. Angels We Have Heard on High
2. Joy to the World
3. Hark the Herald Angels Sing
4. O Little Town of Bethlehem
5. The First Noël
6. Away in a Manger
7. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night
8. Silent Night
9. Once in Royal David's City
10. While By My Sheep
11. God Rest You Merry Gentlemen (full song)
12. O Come, All Ye Faithful (full song)

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Part of the Hymns for a Kid's Heart series.

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What does effective church leadership look like?

In this conversational book, pastor Jeramie Rinne sets forth an easy-to-understand “job description” for elders drawn from the Bible’s teaching on church leadership.

Offering practical guidance for new elders and helping church members better understand and support their spiritual leaders, this succinct volume will encourage elders to embrace their calling with grace, wisdom, and clarity of vision.

Part of the 9Marks: Building Healthy Churches series.

“Leadership, like the other gifts of the Spirit, is for the edifying of the body of Christ. Paul made it plain to Titus that things were not in order in a church until proper leadership was established. Most unsolved problems in church life can be traced back to defective leadership. Jeramie Rinne unpacks what the Bible has to say about the identity and activity of the local church elder with a freshness and clarity that is profoundly helpful. This is a book that elders can read together to their profit and one that will help a congregation to pray for and support its leaders so that their work will be a joy and not a burden.”
Alistair Begg, Senior Pastor, Parkside Church, Chagrin Falls, Ohio

“Jeramie Rinne proves it’s possible to write both comprehensively and concisely about the office and ministry of church elders. And what a valuable book this is! I found it not simply informative but devotional, helpful to me as a pastor in my love for Jesus and, by extension, his church. I am hard-pressed to think of another book on this subject that is so readily shareable.”
Jared C. Wilson, Director of Content Strategy, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Do you long to see a growing, godly group of mature men in your church who work alongside the full-time pastors to shepherd, teach, and train the congregation for disciple-making? Biblically sharp, wise and, warmly written, this little book is about the essentially collegial nature of church ministry and leadership. Regardless of your view as to how 'elders' should be appointed, organized, or named, you will find much here to challenge, encourage, and guide.”
Tony Payne, Publishing Director, Matthias Media; co-author, The Trellis and the Vine

Introduction: “I’m an elder. Now what?”
1. Don’t Assume
2. Smell Like Sheep
3. Serve Up the Word
4. Track Down the Strays
5. Lead without Lording
6. Shepherd Together
7. Model Maturity
8. Plead for the Flock
Conclusion: The Eternal Weight of Shepherding

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In this concise, accessible guide, author Christopher Catherwood takes his readers through the history of the faith, educating them about the uniqueness of Christianity from its birth to the diverse, global Evangelical Church we know today. Church History is the perfect place to start for anyone who wants to know where to begin this quest for knowledge.

Enjoy discovering more about the lives of men and women from various times and places, not only to better understand the church, but also to know how to live wisely in this age. These are some of the many reasons why history is so important.

From those who desire to learn more about their fellow followers of Jesus Christ throughout history to those who want to learn more about church for themselves, this book will test you to dig deeper in your faith.

'Honest historian Christopher Catherwood informs us straightaway that he views the Christian story through the lenses of Protestant, Reformed, evangelical, baptistic, free-church spectacles. His telling of the tale, journalistic in style while scholarly in substance, then proves his point. You will find this book clarifying and invigorating.'
J. I. Packer, Board of Governors' Professor of Theology, Regent College

'Christopher Catherwood provides an enriching, plain-language, big-picture overview of divine Providence as it unfolds in redemptive history from the close of the apostolic era until today. Church History is both wonderfully readable and carefully, clearly presented. It digs beneath the obvious and soars above the trite. This is a superb summary of the story of gospel history.'
John MacArthur, Pastor, Grace Community Church, Sun Valley, California; President, The Master's College and Seminary

Specifications

Most churches in the United States have less than 75 members. Many of these congregations barely have enough money to pay their pastor’s salary, let alone launch a movement or host a conference. How can they hope to make an impact beyond their own walls?

In Churches Partnering Together, Chris Bruno and Matt Dirks show how all churches—big and small—can do more together than they can do apart. Looking to the New Testament for guidance, this practical book will help pastors, church leaders, and laypeople alike think creatively about gospel-driven church partnerships in their own communities and around the world.

“One of the most important lessons from the New Testament is that gospel churches naturally cooperate in gospel ministries. That’s why I welcome this new book by Chris Bruno and Matt Dirks. The rising generation of young evangelicals needs to embrace once again a fully biblical understanding of cooperation so churches united in faith can cooperate together to share the gospel with the world.”
R. Albert Mohler Jr., President and Joseph Emerson Brown Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“God’s mission is too big for any one church to accomplish. We know that. Yet we often act as if our church must do it all—alone. How freeing to discover what can happen when churches join forces. Chris Bruno and Matt Dirks are scholars with pastors’ hearts, and they tackle the topic with theological depth and practical wisdom. Their strategies for kingdom partnerships will leave readers inspired to seek out partner congregations and well equipped to make the partnerships flourish. For church leaders more excited about building God’s kingdom than their own, this is the book to read.”
Drew Dyck, Managing Editor, Leadership Journal; author, Yawning at Tigers: You Can’t Tame God, So Stop Trying

“The world has become too complex and challenging, and gospel opportunities too numerous, for Christ’s followers to work in isolation from one another, much less compete with each other. The twenty-first century must be a century of partnerships; as long as the Lord tarries, we need to work together to advance the gospel. That’s why I’m delighted to commend this thoroughly biblical and eminently practical book.”
Todd Wilson, Senior Pastor, Calvary Memorial Church, Oak Park, Illinois; author, Real Christian and The Pastor Theologian

'God can and does work miracles through local churches linked together by the gospel for the sake of loving their communities by introducing them to Jesus. I love the vision Chris and Matt live out and lay out in this book. May their tribe increase!”
Collin Hansen, Editorial Director, The Gospel Coalition; author, Blind Spots

“Unfortunately, smaller churches are too often deemed to be less faithful or significant. Bruno and Dirks cast a biblical vision for how such churches can partner together, providing a biblical foundation and practical strategies for such endeavors. The book makes a fresh and important contribution, and should be read widely.”
Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Associate Dean of the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“When gospel renewal grips our communities, it will be the fruit of churches collaborating in kingdom partnerships. Churches Partnering Together provides the requisite instruction and inspiration to make this vision a reality.”
Chris Castaldo, Director, Ministry of Gospel Renewal, Wheaton College; author, Talking with Catholics about the Gospel

“Gospel partnership, rightly understood, always extends beyond individuals to churches. This book is an outstanding resource. It lays out, compellingly, the biblical rationale for churches partnering together with the aim of gospel advance. It is full of useful examples and practical advice about partnership in action. I recommend it wholeheartedly.”
William Taylor, Rector, St. Helen's Bishopsgate, London; author, Understanding the Times and Partnership

“Having recently begun to benefit from this very kind of relationship with four other local churches, I find myself very excited about Churches Partnering Together. I trust God will use this book to expose many more to the beauty and strength of these partnerships of mutual encouragement, shared resources, and shared labor. The work that Jesus has called his church to do will be greatly empowered as more of us follow the course that Chris and Matt lay out here. They give us not just a compelling vision but also the practicalities of pursuing these partnerships, with due attention to important things such as a solid relational foundation and prayer.”
Mike Bullmore, Senior Pastor, CrossWay Community Church, Bristol, Wisconsin

“Can even a small congregation play a large part in the Great Commission? This book answers the question with a resounding yes—as they develop kingdom partnerships where they don’t own anything, control anything, or count anything as their own. If you want to make a difference in the expansion of the gospel, read this book! It provides simple advice that can yield profound results.”
William J. Hamel, President, Evangelical Free Church of America

“Partnerships make the most important things in life happen. What none of us can do alone can often be done in collaboration with others. Many pastors and church planters will benefit enormously from the wisdom, biblical insight, and practical experience that Chris Bruno and Matt Dirks provide for us here. May God be pleased to spread the vision, and share the work, for the growth of kingdom churches that advance the gospel of Christ.”
Bruce A. Ware, T. Rupert and Lucille Coleman Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Chris and Matt illustrate the power and multiplication factor of partnerships to see the kingdom of God expand. Out of their own experiences, they provide a road map for congregations of any size to partner together with others for powerful results. They write with kingdom hearts and gospel-centered focus. I highly recommend this book to any who are involved in the Great Commission.”
T. J. Addington, Senior Vice President, Evangelical Free Church of America; Leader, ReachGlobal; author, High-Impact Church Boards and Leading from the Sandbox

“Ever since the apostle Paul thanked the church at Philippi for their partnership in the gospel, churches with a vision bigger than themselves have joined together to establish kingdom partnerships. Chris Bruno and Matt Dirks help us to see how local fellowships willing to walk humbly and depend together on the power of God can become catalysts for gospel-centered outreach to their communities and to the nations. How might we multiply the seed God has entrusted to us and extend the reign of Christ with one another to the glory of God? You will be both challenged and encouraged as you read this strong exhortation to kingdom building through church partnerships.”
Bill Mills, Founder, Leadership Resources International

1. Catching the Vision: Understanding Kingdom Partnership
2. Laying the Foundation: Building on the Gospel
3. Clarifying the Mission: Identifying Roles and Resources
4. Leading the Charge: Catalytic Leaders and Churches
5. Staying the Course: Patience and Perseverance
6. Giving and Receiving: Interdependence in Partnership
7. Expanding Ownership: Building Engagement, Enthusiasm, and Dedication
8. Launching a Movement: Multiplying Ministries for God’s Glory
9. Putting It All Together: Kingdom Church Partnership Step by Step

Specifications