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Seasoned pastor, Terry L. Johnson, shares practical wisdom for pastors to help them prioritise their public ministry. Ministers, in our age, are expected to be jacks-of-all-trades. However important administration, committee work, counselling, and relationship building may be, the pastor's public ministry in the preaching of the Word and leading of public worship and prayer are fundamental. The Bible lays out specific qualifications for elders and deacon. The gospel is guarded by requiring those who hold public office to have high standards of knowledge, character, and conduct. Terry Johnson lays out that, if this is true for "lay" leadership, how much more important for those called to ministry. With years of experience, and practical wisdom, Terry L. Johnson guides pastors to think through each of the key aspects of public worship. If you are just starting out in ministry, or have been serving the Lord for many years, a prayerful reading of this book will be of great benefit to your ministry, and your congregation. Contents: Leading in Worship First Priority Principles of Worship Leadership Services of Worship Public Services Well-ordered Reverent Well-paced Clergy-led Simple yet excellent Leading in Praise Is it singable? Is it biblically and theologically sound? Is it biblically and theologically mature? Is it emotionally balanced? Is it demographically comprehensive? Leading in Prayer Background Recent Times Personal Experience Recommendations for Public Prayer Scriptural Planned Brief Undiluted Appropriate Full diet of prayer Clear headings Example Preaching Lectio continua Textual Without Formulas Assume Ignorance Explain Context Review and Repeat Application Brevity Urgency Authentic Exhortation

Fascinating insight into life and faith of 18th century best-selling author, educationalist and abolitionist There has never been anyone quite like Hannah More... Her books were kept in the homes of presidents, and peers of the realm. They were a best-selling phenomenon, and she "the most successful British author of the romantic period,"--more successful, financially, than Sir Walter Scott, and more than Jane Austen. A gifted poet and playwright Hannah More was, by her early 30s, the toast of literary London. Samuel Johnson collaborated with her in writing verse, and David Garrick, one of the greatest Shakespearian actors in theatre history, was her mentor and devoted patron. Hannah, as a member of the Bluestocking circle of the late 1700s, was a pioneering artist and celebrity. Throughout the English-speaking world, she became a household name. In later years, after her passing in 1833, her legacy lived on. C.S. Lewis knew her story, and wrote about it--her good works, born of faith. As a philanthropist and reformer, she was a cherished colleague of William Wilberforce. Their friendship, and endeavours, were famous in their own right. Together, they were abolitionists, and together (with Wilberforce's backing) Hannah More and her sisters created nine schools, where there were none, and educated 1,000 poor students a year, for decades. Her own charities were legion, and supported by her great royalties as a writer. Yet there were broken moments in her life. She overcame tragedy, and debilitating pain. She knew what loss and failure were--and she learned the ways of grace, amid it all. And so, in a word... Hannah More is one of the most fascinating figures in the pages of history: and her faith was a benison for the time in which she lived. Her life was illumined by the sacred flame of Christian belief. It inspired books that speak to us now, with power and eloquence--charting the reasons for hope--lending timeless words it is our privilege to know, and return to. To purchase this book is to discover why.

A hidden room, a secret resistance network - and a call to witness for Christ in the darkest of places Corrie ten Boom and her family were watchmakers living in Haarlem, Holland in the early 20th Century. They loved God, and loved to help others where they could. But their happy lifestyle was shattered when the Nazis occupied their country. Corrie became involved in the Dutch resistance network, helping Jews, and others targeted by the Nazi regime, to find safe places to hide. But when they were found out one day, little did Corrie realise that the work God called them to was just beginning. God used Corrie to show his love, even amidst the suffering of a Nazi concentration camp. The faith and courage displayed by Corrie ten Boom and her family shine through in this short, narrative biography. Part of the Hall of Faith series, you will not be able to put this thrilling book down. Be encouraged and challenged in your own faith as you read this amazing story.

Witness Billy Graham's journey from humble beginnings on a North Carolina farm to becoming one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century. At the age of sixteen, Billy Graham committed his life to Christ during a Christian revival meeting - and it wasn't long before it became clear that God had plans for his life. With the help of his wife, Ruth, and many other friends and colleagues Billy set out to preach to the world. Through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, he preached to over 80 million people in more than 185 countries. Millions more were reached through television, video, film, and radio ministries. He faced up to all of Christianity's major twentieth-century opponents: communism, apartheid, segregation and terrorism. From paying the bail money to get Martin Luther King out of jail to addressing the memorial service in Washington after the collapse of the World Trade Centre, Billy Graham was there for people with practical help and a timeless message of hope. This narrative-driven introductory biography from the Hall of Faith series offers a compelling glimpse into the heart and mind of a man who touched the lives of millions around the globe. Whether you're a longtime admirer or new to Graham's remarkable story, Catherine Mackenzie's book is sure to inspire and uplift.

Paul Tautges' compassionate, biblical guide to grief is an invaluable addition to the Track series for young adults The reality of death means that we all encounter grief at some point in our lives. But what does the Bible say about how we handle the aftermath of separation? Paul Tautges compassionately addresses the struggles we face when dealing with loss, all the while pointing to the hope and comfort that can be found in Christ. Biblical Comfort: Explore the timeless wisdom of scripture and find solace in knowing the God who grieves. Track: Grief gently guides you through biblical passages that provide strength, reassurance, and the promise of God's eternal love during times of sorrow. Practical Tools: Track: Grief equips you with practical tools to navigate the grieving process with grace. Engage with the thought-provoking questions in each chapter, and prayer through what you read, and learn to rely on God, even when navigating the challenging terrain of grief. Part of Track Series for Young Adults: Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is.

Joel Littlefield's short, highly practical book will inspire pastors to develop coalitions, for their own good, to strengthen the local church, and advance the Kingdom of God. Joel Littlefield wants to see God at work in his community, and invites other pastors to share the vision: for men, women and children to surrender to the lordship of Christ through the regenerating work of the Spirit; for new churches to be planted and declining churches revitalised; for congregations to be about the work of making disciples of Christ. Pastors with this gospel-minded mindset can be hugely helped in this way: by forming coalitions with other like-minded local pastors. Littlefield argues that in cultivating friendships and fellowship with one another, pastors will not only build one another up, but will benefit their own churches, and the work of the gospel in their local community. With very practical guidance on how to go about forming these alliances for joint action, Littlefield helps identify the important qualities to look for in coalition members, and inspires readers to see how leading by example is crucial, and being a disciple is as important as making disciples. A short read, filled with wisdom and encouragement for the pastor who feels alone, discouraged, or like ministry might be better shoulder to shoulder with their brothers. Chapter headings include: Something Needs to Change A Kingdom Vision Bringing People to the Table Healthy Leaders and Healthy Churches A Kingdom-Minded Mission Looking Back

Delve into the depths of Paul's experiential and godly wisdom in 2 Timothy and Titus, and find encouragement for your own ministry These are difficult days for those who pastor God's people. In many parts of the world, especially in the West, culture and society have turned away from their Christian past, as if from something both passé and repulsive. Churches are profoundly divided over how to cope with this disorientating situation, and there is much unseemly confrontation. It is no wonder then that many people who might previously have considered giving their lives to full-time ministry in the church are now uneasy and uncertain at the prospect. And yet it is at just such a time -- when huge swathes of the population are ignorant of even the basics of the faith, and churchgoers are often left confused and bewildered by the deep public rifts in the church -- that we need trustworthy spiritual guides. Paul, an apostle, missionary church planter, and a pastor of great experience, wrote to Timothy and Titus, his trusted younger colleagues in the ministry. They were facing huge challenges in serving the gospel, trying to keep their churches safe from charlatans and false teaching while doing the work of an evangelist in places famously full of idolatry, immorality, and entrenched opposition. Paul's letters gave them the guidance they needed in such a moment, to keep them on track. And his words contain vital instruction for those in the ministry today. Shamelessly Suffering for the Gospel (2 Timothy 1:1-10) Unashamedly Standing by Paul (2 Timothy 1:8-18) Soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:1-13) Protecting the Flock (2 Timothy 2:14-26) Keep Calm and Carry On (2 Timothy 3) Fulfil Your Ministry (2 Timothy 4) A Remedy for Plague (Titus 1) What Accords with Sound Doctrine (Titus 2) The Mercy and Grace of God (Titus 3) Whether you are considering going into gospel ministry of some kind, training for it, or already engaged in it, this is a book to help you "fulfil your ministry" (2 Timothy 4:5), discharging all its many difficult duties -- for the glory of God and the good of the world.

William Philip encourages readers to use the Psalms as their own heart songs, in any circumstance Don't just admire the Psalms, use them. Psalms are Spirit-inspired prayers that help us to pray rightly and truly. They give us words we trust, and treasure as our own heart songs, as we engage with God through times of both darkness and light. William Philip shows us that in the Psalms we find a profound revelation of God, His nature, and His ways, as well as His relationship with His people. They help us deal with all aspects of our sojourning faith, both individually and in the corporate life of the church. They give us real 'working models' for living day by day as Christians. Heart Songs for Every Saint takes six of these psalms, and shows how they can be prayed in real life situations: When God Seems Absent: Psalms 10 - A Song of Protest Right Sacrifices for Real Sinners: Psalm 51 - A Song of Penitence When We in Darkness Walk: Psalm 88 - A Song of Pain Safe in the Shadow of the Almighty: Psalm 91 - A Song of Promise Where Does Your Help Come From?: Psalm 121 - A Song of Pilgrimage Joining the Choir of the King: Psalm 145 - A Song of Praise

The extraordinary story of the birth of the Scottish mission to the Jews In the middle of the nineteenth century, God began to lay on the hearts of his people in the Church of Scotland a concern for the evangelisation of the Jews. The response resulted in a quarter of a million eastern European Jews finding salvation in their Messiah in the second half of the same century. John Stuart Ross, author of The Power and the Glory: John Ross and the Evangelisation of Manchuria and Korea, brings his thorough research and engrossing writing style once more to this fascinating story. Time for Favour features some of the most remarkable figures in the history of missions - an archetypal eccentric absent-minded professor, a group of dedicated young ministers full of romantic ideas about the Holy Land and the Jews, head-strong and sometimes morally weak missionaries. Here you will read the story of fallible but heroic men and women who were prepared to forsake everything, even their lives, because they believed that God was far from finished with the Jewish people.

Get a better understanding of the whole structure of the Bible with this easy introduction to covenant theology The Bible is written in covenant language. The more you understand the structure of the Bible the better you will understand the major message of the Bible and see how everything fits together. There is a unity to the message of the Bible, centered around covenant theology, related to God's plan to restore broken human beings who have rebelled against him. Covenant theology explains how we became broken and how God plans to save us. The gospel itself is dependent on the covenantal framework of Scripture. Richard P. Belcher, Jr., John D. and Frances M. Gwin Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary, brings his extensive understanding of the way covenants underpin the whole Bible to this book, and introduces us to the concepts in such a way that no prior knowledge is required. Includes 'Points of Interest' sidebars Reading list for further study Chapter headings include: Preface: Why Study Covenant Theology? What is a Covenant? The Covenantal Structure of Scripture The Covenant of Works The Initiation of the Covenant of Grace The Covenant with Noah The Covenant with Abraham The Covenant with Moses The Covenant with David The New Covenant Christ Fulfills All the Covenant Promises

Eric C. Redmond traces the servant ministry of Jesus in the gospel of Mark, revealing him as the authoritative Son of God in this Focus on the Bible layman's commentary. - Part of the Focus on the Bible series of commentaries for laypeople - Examines text passage by passage - Reveals overall themes and key points - Reflective questions with each chapter Although the shortest of the gospel accounts, the book of Mark is not lacking in rich content. Written to a largely non-Jewish audience, it arose from a need for a quickly written, simple account of the life of Christ that affirmed his deity. Eric C. Redmond, Professor of Bible at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, opens up this fast-moving book for us and highlights the key points about Jesus' life which Mark emphasises. Mark shows how the servant ministry of Jesus reveals him as the authoritative Son of God to those who have simple faith in him, granting them entrance into the kingdom of God, and calling them to like service in the way of God. The Focus on the Bible series commentaries are popular-level commentaries, especially helpful for pastors and small group leaders. They are useful for personal devotions and spiritual growth. Many of the authors of the commentaries are leading expositors of God's Word on their speciality subjects. The series holds to the inerrancy of scripture and the uniqueness of Christ in salvation. Whether you are preparing a Bible study or just seeking a deeper understanding of the gospel of Mark this book will be a great help to you.

See how the thread of orthodoxy runs throughout the history of the church - even in the thousand years known as the "Dark Ages". If you study church history closely, you will see that there is a continuous thread of faithful, glorifying theology that gives God due honour, that takes Scripture as the principal authority over life and faith, and that nourishes our wonder and worship. Despite its somewhat derogatory name, we can see that the light of the gospel was by no means extinguished in the millennium between 500 and 1500. Iain Wright and Yannick Imbert outline the story of this time through the lives of ten key figures of the Medieval Church: Leo the Great (400-461) Boethius (476-524) Alcuin (735-804) Gottschalk (814-868) Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109) Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) Peter Waldo (1140-1205) Bonaventure(1221-1274) John Wycliffe (1320-1384) Jan Hus(1372-1415) Chronicles 1,000 Years of Orthodox Theology see God's providence in the faithful teaching of truth throughout history Meet Key Historical Figures: some well-known, some less so, all in their place and time Written for a wide audience non-academic writing style makes this a great read for anyone interested in history

Journey alongside one of Christianity's most courageous pioneers in Vance Christie's biography for pre-teens. Born into humble beginnings in Scotland in 1813, Livingstone's faith and passion for exploration shaped his extraordinary life. Inspired by the Gospel's call to serve others, Livingstone pursued a path of missionary work and exploration, driven by a deep conviction to share the love of Christ with those in distant lands. Despite facing adversity and hardship, he remained steadfast in his belief that God had called him to Africa to spread the message of salvation. Livingstone encountered incredible challenges throughout his expeditions, from treacherous jungles to fierce wildlife, yet he persevered, trusting in God's guidance every step of the way. His adventures led him to discover breath-taking natural wonders and to forge friendships with African tribes. His legacy extends beyond his explorations: his unwavering commitment to ending the slave trade and uplifting the oppressed reflects his deep faith and compassion for humanity. Through his remarkable journey, Livingstone showed the power of God to transforming lives and shaping history. His story continues to inspire believers around the world to follow God's call with courage and conviction. The Trailblazer's series collects great stories from Christians of the past and delivers them to the young people of today. This gripping and astonishing story from Vance Christie will challenge young readers to trust God as Livingstone did. A well-known and long-standing series: Over 50 titles Great for ages 9 to 14 Published in 14 languages Half a million books sold Also available in box sets when one book is not enough! 7 themed box sets, each with 5 books Each biography follows the trailblazer's journey to faith, and on to the work that God had planned for them. With lots of dialogue, these engaging stories show how God uses normal individuals to bring about his purpose. Each book features: Thinking Further Topics for each chapter to help readers think about how what they've read applies to their life today Timeline of important events in the lifetime of each book's subject

Director of Training and Resources for Biblical Counselling UK, Helen Thorne-Allenson gives us this essential guide for young women to what the Bible says about pornography. We live in a world where pornography is easy to access. At the click of a button, it tempts us to use our devices and bodies to get a cheap hit of excitement, devoid of any real human interaction or care. But God calls us to a life which is the opposite of that. Helen Thorne-Allenson shares not only a convincing explanation as to why looking at porn is unhelpful but also some practical tips for breaking the habit. Contents: Section 1: Understanding Porn Purpose Value Section 2: Understanding Why We Use Porn Curiosity Comfort Control Section 3: Pursuing Christ Strategies Hope Community Beauty Each chapter ends with questions for reflection and discussion, and there is a list of helpful resources at the back of the book. This book contains no graphic detail about the contents of porn. There is no manipulating you to feel guilty for decisions you may have made in the past. And there is no pretending that living for Jesus is always easy. There is, however, an honest look at who we are, what pornography is, why we are here, and how God is calling us to live - and an invitation to follow him into a future that is beautiful beyond compare. Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is. With the intention of the content being absorbed, examined and applied, each chapter includes a summary of the main point, and reflection questions that can be used individually, in 1-2-1 mentoring or in a group setting.

Discover the inspiring story of John and Charles Wesley, two brothers who left an indelible mark on Christian history. Step into the 18th century and meet John and Charles Wesley, brothers whose unwavering faith sparked a spiritual revolution. Witness their transformative journey from the humble English countryside to the heart of a movement that changed the course of Christianity. A Tapestry of Faith and Adventure Marvel at the thrilling tales of faith, courage, and resilience as the Wesley brothers navigate challenges, triumphs, and divine encounters. From the vibrant Oxford University to the bustling streets of London, this biography paints a vibrant tapestry of their lives, making history come alive for young readers. Faith in Action As you explore the pages, you will be inspired by the Wesley brothers' commitment to social justice, their passion for community service, and their unyielding dedication to spreading the message of love and grace, but most of all you will see how God worked in and through their lives. The Trailblazer series collects great stories from Christians of the past and delivers them to the young people of today. This gripping and astonishing story from David Luckman will challenge young readers to serve God as the Wesley brothers did. A well-known and long-standing series: Over 50 titles Great for ages 9 to 14 Published in 14 languages Half a million books sold Also available in box sets when one book is not enough! 7 themed box sets, each with 5 books Each biography follows the trailblazer's journey to faith, and on to the work that God had planned for them. With lots of dialogue, these engaging stories show how God uses normal individuals to bring about his purpose. Each book features: Thinking Further Topics for each chapter to help readers think about how what they've read applies to their life today Timeline of important events in the lifetime of each book's subject

A fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the Early Church Fathers, his defence of orthodox theology, and how his Christ-centredness has shaped the faith of the Church. Cyril of Alexandria (c. 376 - 444 AD) was a towering figure in early Christianity, renowned for his theological prowess and leadership as the Patriarch of Alexandria. Born into a prominent Christian family, Cyril received a comprehensive education in theology and philosophy, which equipped him for his future role as a defender of orthodox Christian doctrine. Daniel Hames unpacks Cyril's tenure as Patriarch, marked by significant theological controversies, notably his fierce defense of the divinity of Christ against the teachings of Nestorius, culminating in the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD. Cyril played a pivotal role in condemning Nestorianism and affirming the doctrine of the hypostatic union - the belief in the union of Christ's divine and human natures in one person. Cyril's legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in the development of the doctrine of Christ, shaping the theological landscape of Christianity for centuries to come. Contents: Series Preface A Chronology of Cyril's Life Foreword 1. The Man, the Myth, the Legend 2. The Nestorian Controversy 3. Who is Jesus? 4. Who is God? 5. What is Salvation? 6. Chalcedon and Beyond Afterword Hames begins with some history and biography of Cyril before setting up the dynamics of the controversy with Nestorius. The chapters on Jesus, God and salvation are a look into Cyril's theology, especially in the light of the battle he was fighting. The final chapter and afterword survey his influence on the church immediately after his lifetime and highlight some of the ways we might turn to Cyril today as we navigate the question and debates of our own time. Early Church Fathers series edited by Michael A. G. Haykin and Shawn J. Wilhite, this series relates the magnificent impact that those fathers of the early church had on our world today Extra Features: a chronology of Cyril's life, including key councils held in the years following his death Theologically Instructive: helps us understand the importance of applying correct Christology

Michael A. Milton uncovers the treasures of one of the Bible's regularly overlooked books in this pastoral treatment of Leviticus. God's call changed everything for the Israelites. Amid the vast, severe wilderness landscape of the Sinai region, in sun-scorched sorrow and disappointment over a recent national sin - the creation and worship of an idol of smelted jewelry - life abruptly changes. With the first line of Leviticus, "And the Lord called," God interrupts time and space, regret and reason, futility and hope. He reveals the pattern of the gospel: the holiness of God, the problem of human sin, God's plan of salvation, His call to holiness through His gracious provision. He shows a way for sinful humans to live in the presence of a holy God. Leviticus for modern-day Christians This call doesn't just affect the ancient Israelites - Milton shows how Leviticus still speaks to Christ's followers today. This book of the law points consistently to Jesus, the fullness and fulfilment of every antitype. It reveals to us in stark terms the abhorrence of sin, and the barrier it creates between mankind and God. Beginning with a helpful overview of Leviticus, and after providing some beneficial information about its title, authorship, time and biblical context, Milton tackles the book in four sections: Called to Worship (chapters 1-7) Called to Ministry (chapters 8-10) Called to Purity (chapters 11-16) Called to Holiness (chapters 17-27) Throughout, we see how this call applies not only to the ancient Israelites, but also to us. Get into this fascinating book Approaching God will be excellent for personal bible study, or for a pastor or small group leader working through the book.

Huh? What exactly do you mean by that... Harrison Perkins, a senior research fellow for the Craig Centre for the Study of the Westminster Standards, introduces us to some of the main themes of Reformed theology in this addition to the Track series. Starting with its principal foundations - the grace and love of God - Harrison goes on to tackle some of the trickier aspects of Reformed theology, such as predestination. With a clear and comprehendible explanation, he demonstrates how these doctrines apply to the life of the believer. Contents: Why Study Reformed Theology? The Grace of God The Sovereign Love of God The Word of God The People of God The Experience of God's Grace Appendix A: Next Steps Appendix B: Further Reading Appendix C Glossary of Terms Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is. With the intention of the content being absorbed, examined and applied, each chapter includes a summary of the main point, and reflection questions that can be used individually, in 1-2-1 mentoring or in a group setting.

A narrative-driven, engagingly-written history of the church. Meet some of the key people who God used to shape His Church and see how He has been at work throughout history. The Risen Hope series is a narrative-driven journey through the history of the Church. Introducing key people and events from the last two thousand years, readers will be captivated by the fascinating stories and engaging style. Continuing the legacy of its predecessor, the History Lives series, the Risen Hope series is a breath of fresh air on the church history scene. This five-volume box set contains all the books in the Risen Hope series - and covers all of church history. Included in the box are: Redemption: The Church in Ancient Times (3 BC-476 AD) Reign: The Church in the Middle Ages (476-1485) Reform: The Church at the Birth of Protestantism (1485-1600) Renewal: The Church that Expands Outward (1600-1890) Resolve: The Church that Endures Onward (1890-2023) An incredible story to educate and inspire young readers with the knowledge of where they've come from and where they're headed. A new generation are growing up: what will come next in the life of the Church?

Christians are called to visibly live out our faith, but we also need to be able to reasonably explain what we believe and why. Graham Nicholls' practical book will help us do just that. It's easy to think that our faith is personal, something which should be expressed behind closed doors or with other Christians. But we are called to be a light to the world, to be able to give a reason for our faith. Graham Nicholls' practical book helps us to think through not only why we should do that, but how we can do it. The world needs to hear the gospel, and there are a whole host of ways we can publicly proclaim our faith. From identifying the key battle lines where there is friction between Christianity and modern Western society, to engaging with mainstream media; from street preaching to an evangelistic online presence, Nicholls exhorts Christians to be salt and light wherever God gives them opportunities. As a pastor, and as Director of Affinity, an organisation which helps equip Christians to effectively engage with society, Graham Nicholls brings valuable experience with traditional and new media, local church outreach, community projects and one-to-one evangelism.

Former Principal of London Seminary, Philip Eveson, shows the unchanging relevance of the book of Chronicles for us today. In today's world, when Old Testament books like Chronicles are denied as being historically inaccurate, Eveson constantly shows us that the opposite is true. Throughout the commentary, he not only argues that it is free from historical error, but God-breathed, and therefore able to make us wise for salvation. Far from being irrelevant to the modern reader, Eveson brings helpful, insightful application from the Biblical narrative. Eveson's commentary is split over two volumes: Volume one containing 1 Chronicles and Volume two containing 2 Chronicles. However, he reminds us that 1 and 2 Chronicles are one undivided book and they should be read as such. The genealogical line that the chronicler wrote of all looked to the Messiah. In reading Chronicles, so should we. The commentary is appropriate for all Christians who desire to see their Lord in all the scriptures. Eveson helpfully includes an application section with each passage that shows how it points to Jesus. This book will be helpful to any readers who are seeking to find a deeper understanding of the books of Chronicles.

Beloved children's author Carine Mackenzie unfolds the parables of Jesus for families to enjoy together. Carine Mackenzie, whose children's books have sold millions of copies worldwide, takes the stories that Jesus used to teach his listeners about God's way, and unpacks them in a way that the whole family can enjoy together. The short stories teach about things like prayer, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God, and Carine's knowledge of how to help children understand the meaning behind the story shines through. With beautiful colour illustrations, this book will be a great addition to your family's library.

Tired? Frustrated? Confused? Almost a third of new churches don't survive 4 years: What's the problem? What's gone wrong? External opposition, character qualms, practical barriers, disunity dilemmas, lack of support: these are the struggles reported by those on the front lines of church planting ministry. Stories, scripture, and self-examination shed light on twelve common pitfalls and inspire strategies for planting churches that last. Gathering real experiences and tackling the challenges headfirst, Steel encourages us to step out of the pressured drive for short-term gains and resist the allure of superficial successes. As our gaze shifts from making converts to making disciples, we are equipped and energised to persevere in establishing the roots that will cultivate thriving churches. In the midst discouragement, there is hope for struggling church plants and struggling planters: God has promised to build his church

Why the Bible's call to contentment will bring more satisfaction than the world's desire for more - and practical steps to finding it. While the Bible not only encourages contentment, but commands it, it can feel like a vague, fleeting, unachievable goal. David Kaywood's helpful book begins by moulding our understanding of what it means to be content. Do you find yourself worrying, coveting, grumbling, giving way to unrighteous anger, or dwelling unhealthily on the past or the future? You might be discontent - and it might be leading you into all sorts of other sins. He tackles three common areas of discontentment - money and possessions; pain and suffering; success and work - and digs into the reality of our desires. Ultimately, Kaywood invites readers to focus on Jesus: the God who became poor for us and suffered for us, and who calls us to work for him. The final chapter includes eight rules for contentment. These are practical steps you can take to increase the godly satisfaction in your life. The book also includes discussion questions to guide conversations on these issues with friends. If you are looking to live a life of contentment, start by reading this book.

Esteemed scholar, Alec Motyer, presents a salvation pledge on display in this introduction to Old Testament covenant theology. Signs, laws, sacrifices, kings, priests: How do they all fit together? Alec Motyer answers with five lectures that intricately trace God's covenant from its origins in the narrative of Noah and Abraham, through the establishment of the law, towards its climax in Christ. From the beginning of time, God has been making his ways and nature known to his people. Unpack the purpose of signs, make sense of Passover and look beyond the insufficient sacrifices and failing monarchy. Through approaching the Old Testament with a fresh appreciation of the covenant meta-narrative, the lines of covenant theology are seen to converge with salvation as their ultimate focal point. Join Motyer on a journey that connects the dots across God's carefully orchestrated redemptive history to glimpse a greater vision of the salvation masterplan brought to fulfilment by the promise-making, promise-keeping God

New Testament professor Robert J. Cara's addition to the Mentor Commentary series highlights the timely message of Hebrews to persevere in Christ. Bringing a particularly Reformed viewpoint, Robert J. Cara underscores the presentation of Jesus as the Son and high priest. In a letter written to encourage and exhort the believers, Cara uncovers how the superior person and superior work of Jesus is broadcast loud and clear to draw back hearts tempted to drift from this glorious reality. Cara's love for studying God's word shines through this comprehensive and clarifying commentary. He connects God's word to God's world and brings each section to a close by culminating with a personal reflection that encourages us to delight in and absorb the glorious truth on display. An essential guide to understanding, enjoying and applying Hebrews; rediscover the supremacy of Christ and respond with rekindled affection.

"Hurt people hurt people. But those who have been called by grace become new creations." Emotional and raw, Sean DeMars tells his story of a life turned around. It is a tale of two families: one scarred by brokenness, another renewed by grace. In his storytelling, the tragedy and horror of his early years are punctuated with the beauty of restoration evident in the life he now leads. Abandoned by a father and abused by a mother, his search for a father finds a home with the King of heaven who graces him with love and sonship. Follow his journey through abuse, drugs and prison, across the battlefield and mission field and into marriage, family, and ministry in this personal, engaging, and honest testament to God's grace. As his life and his church are turned around, their stories become a platform to display how God chooses the nothings of the world. His story is the story of every sinner saved by grace: once a victim and rebel, now redeemed and reconciled.

The Bible calls us to be good citizens who love God and love our neighbour - how does that affect how we vote? People say that religion and politics shouldn't mix, but God has a lot to say about how we live together. Politics touches many things in our lives, and so, as Christians, we should examine our political beliefs in the light of what God says. Challenging us not to bury our heads in the sand, Joshua Wester encourages young adults to view politics through the lens of their Christian faith, and to test their beliefs against the Bible. This short guide tackles crucial topics that young adults should be thinking about as they think about politics, get involved in conversations and play their part as a member of society. Equipping young people with biblical perspectives and practicalities, Wester enables and equips young people to actively engage with the political process and make a difference. Contents: Introduction: Breaking all the Rules What is Politics Anyway? Why Should Christians Care? Politics and the Kingdom Politics and the Kingdom Political, not Partisan Christians in the Public Square Straight Lines and Jagged Lines Legislating Morality Governing Authorities Is Politics Bad for the Church? Politics as Penultimate Conclusion: Politics as Public Witness Appendix 1: Further Reading Appendix 2: What's Next? Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is. With the intention of the content being absorbed, examined and applied, each chapter includes a summary of the main point, and reflection questions

"Mirror, Mirror on the wall..." Most of us have a complicated relationship with what we see in the mirror. Julie Lowe's short, helpful guide encourages us to look to Scripture to find out where our true value and worth lie. She shows how we were created in God's image, designed to worship Him. This truth transforms our primary concern and directs us to a better question: how can we best use our bodies to honour Him? Contents: Our Battle with the Mirror Does Scripture Speak to This? It Touches Us All Mirrors Lie and Mirrors Isolate The Illusion Is the Answer More Self-Esteem? Where Does Real Beauty Come From? How Do We Change? Is it Wrong to Care About Appearance? This Also Changes our Relationships Appendix A: Next Steps Appendix B: Further Reading Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is. With the intention of the content being absorbed, examined and applied, each chapter includes a summary of the main point, and reflection questions that can be used individually, in 1-2-1 mentoring or in a group setting.

Respected pastor and author, Sinclair Ferguson, uses the words of the popular children's song to help kids understand that they can always run to Jesus in this beautifully illustrated book. Using the words from the popular children's song by CityAlight and Colin Buchanan, and stories from the Bible, Sinclair Ferguson shows children how they can turn to Jesus when they feel afraid, lost, thirsty or weak. He shows that God is powerful and merciful, good and faithful. The beautiful colour illustrations by Angelo Ruta bring this hardback to life. An essential addition to any family's library.