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Packed with practical help, Sharing Your Faith with Your Japanese Neighbour calls attention to cultural differences and will give you ideas for sharing the Gospel with the Japanese people in your life.  What is the best way to share the gospel with Japanese people we meet? OMF has been spreading the good news of Jesus in East Asia for over 150 years, and that knowledge and experience shine through in this helpful guide.  The book is split into three sections:A Brief Outline of Japan's HistoryBecoming a FriendWitnessing to Japanese People Each section highlights things to be aware of when speaking to someone from Japan and how cultural differences might impact how they relate to you. The book encourages you to form genuine friendships and to invite them into your life as well as into your faith. Hugely practical, this book will be invaluable to anyone who longs to tell their Japanese neighbour about Jesus.  There are several additional resources included,such as suggested further reading, where to find Japanese Bibles and Bible study materials, and useful contacts. The appendix includes:10 ways to build relationships10 ideas for helping Japanese practically10 key aspects of Japanese culture10obstacles to communicating the gospel10 ways to get involved where you are now10 issues to cover when discipling

The fundamentals of preaching are central to the life of the church. Revisit them in this crucial guide for beginner and veteran preachers alike. When a preacher stands in the pulpit or at the lectern, he aims to help God's people understand what God has said and how it applies to their lives so that they grow in their knowledge of God and are equipped to live for his glory. It's a job with eternal significance, so the process of getting to that point is crucial. Jonathon Woodyard and Chase Sears encourage us to go back to the basics. Returning to the fundamentals of preaching from time to time, reminding ourselves of our basic undertaking, is a wise strategy for faithfulness and helpful to both veteran and novice. Preaching flows from a man who has seen great things in the Bible, has savored what he has seen, and is eager to stand before God's people to say what he saw. This is the pattern we follow in The Simplicity of Preaching. The authors highlight some strategies you can employ to see what the text says; ways you can help yourself savor the glorious truths of the Bible; and good homiletical practices that inform how you can most effectively say things from the pulpit. This short book is helpfully divided into five sections: 1. What is Preaching and Why Do We Need It? 2. The Role of the Spirit in Preparing to Preach 3. Seeing: How We See Before We Say 4. Savoring What We See 5. How We Say What We Have Savored

A Truly Reformed Apologetics? Cornelius Van Til claimed that all traditional apologetic methodologies are flawed and that those Reformed Christians who use such methods are compromising their theology. His goal was to develop an apologetic method that is truly consistent with Reformed theology. Did he achieve that goal? For almost a century, Reformed theologians, especially in North America, have debated this topic. The debate has often been acrimonious, with serious charges and counter-charges coming from both sides. This book seeks to take the debate in a more constructive direction by clearing away as much misunderstanding as possible in order that we might add to discussions of apologetic methods the actual practice of apologetics. In Part One, Cornelius Van Til's own system of thought is set forth in a clear way in order that readers may know exactly what it entailed. His doctrine of God, creation, the fall, common grace, redemption, and the antithesis are explained in order that readers might understand the apologetic implications of these doctrines. Part Two is devoted to explaining why many Reformed Christians have not embraced Van Til's apologetics in spite of its popularity and influence. These chapters outline biblical, philosophical, theological, historical, and practical concerns with Van Til's system of thought. This book argues that Van Til's apologetic system of thought is consistent with neither Scripture nor Reformed theology.

'Right, that's it. Tomorrow I'm going to change.' Ebbie thought that student life in Europe would be an opportunity to escape the restrictions of his upbringing in India. But when he found himself alone in a strange city, he realised that drinking and partying didn't bring happiness. And he was shocked to discover he could not turn around his own life. 'I was bound by my sins. I couldn't get out. I needed a Saviour.' Read how Ebbie reached his turning point and how he experienced the power of God to save.

Revival history expert filters fact from fiction in the story of one of the best-known revivals. Scotland has played host to a vast array of religious revivals over the course of its history, but by far the best known of these is the Lewis Revival of 1949-52 (also known as the Hebrides revival). The stories around it are extraordinary, with the Spirit working in the lives of many people across this Scottish island. There have been, however, rumours and myths that have grown up around the stories of the Lewis Revival, that did not actually occur. Revival history expert, Tom Lennie, examines the eyewitness accounts and untangles the amazing true story from the exaggerations that it has been caught up in. With an evidence-based approach to the story, Lennie walks readers through the Revival in six sections: Revival island Barvas breakout Revival extended Revival in focus Revival controversy Post revival In essence, powerful preaching, based on God's word sparked a life changing event for hundreds of individuals, and that still has an impact today.

Follow the way of the Psalmist: direct your eyes to the God, and your heart will find its exceeding joy. For those who enjoyed Davis' previous works, this will not disappoint. Always accessible and relevant, anyone can join for this final leg of his pilgrimage with the Psalmist. Come ready to lift your eyes and leave with an uplifted heart. Filled with the characteristic warm humour and biblical clarity that readers have come to expect, Dale Ralph Davis' exposition of Psalms 38-51 will help readers to get to know God's Word better. Davis loves the Psalms but, most of all, he loves the Psalmist's God: so too will you. In this final instalment of his essential guide to the Psalms, trusted theologian Dale Ralph Davis leads readers through a careful study of Psalms 38-51 with clear application for daily life. Using his own translation, Davis sets out a verse-by-verse exposition and crystallises the Psalmist's message with cross-references to situate the passages in broader biblical context. With illustrations from history and personal experience, the truth comes alive. An indispensable accompaniment to the Psalms. Suitable for use as a personal study guide or as a reference and teaching guide for facilitating small group study. Read the rest of the series: The Way of the Righteous in the Muck of Life: Psalms 1-12 Slogging Along in the Paths of Righteousness: Psalms 13-24 In the Presence of my Enemies: Psalms 25-37

This collection of C. H. Spurgeon's travel letters offers a rare insight into a different side of the famed preacher. Of the many telling phrases C. H. Spurgeon gave the world, one speaks to the way he, and his contemporaries, greatly valued letters: what he called "gifts of the pen." He lived in a golden age of letter-writing, and played his part in making it so. The best letters, he knew, are written with thoughtful reflection, love of the written word, wit, and a vivid sense of place. His travel letters model these gifts; his love of nature, history, culture, and art live--and breathe--in these pages. Rest and recreation, during precious holiday time, let him follow these interests. Such times were meaningful, renewing gifts from God. More than a preacher, he was a man who needed rest and cherished the world God had given him to enjoy. With artistic flair, scenes and experiences from the English countryside and European continent are brough to life with vivid descriptions. Eloquent, and often moving, his "gifts of the pen" shine through Spurgeon's travel letters. With this insightful new collection, Spurgeon's letters finally have a well-deserved place f honour in a book of their own. Now, we ourselves may travel with Spurgeon - enjoying the world he knew and experienced through this privileged perspective.

Real answers about a real God. A story-based introduction to apologetics: tackling some of the big questions and encouraging kids to keep asking. 10-year-old Samantha and her brother, Joshua, have some big questions about God, and their parents are ready to help them explore the answers. Join them as they find out what the Bible has to say, and what it means for their lives. Each chapter in this book addresses a big question, including: Who is God? What is the Trinity? Is God for Real? How Did We Get the Bible? Did God Really Create Everything? Did Jesus Rise from the Dead? Why Does God Let Bad Things Happen? How Can I Be Saved? Why Don't My Friends Believe? Continue the conversation with scripture to refer to, verses to learn and discussion questions to explore more.

One of Scotland's most popular theologians traces the theological debates and disagreements of the eighteenth century The eighteenth century saw many changes within the Scottish church. The Kirk was divided by the Patronage Act of 1712 into Moderates (men favoured by the landed gentry) and Evangelicals (men favoured by the people). The Marrow Controversy highlighted theological strife within the Church. Ebenezer Erskine's Protest against patronage led to the first major rift in the Church of Scotland with the Secession of 1733. Through all these, Donald Macleod is our reliable guide. Drawing attention to the major characters of the period and gives a faithful account of the theological discussions, including the social, economic, ethnic, and personal factors involved. He also subjects these discussions to theological evaluation. A fascinating look at a crucial period for anyone with an interest in theological history.

We are busy and constantly bombarded. Notifications, pings, alerts: we carry in our pockets devices that are designed to capture and keep our attention. We are never fully present, always thinking ahead to the next thing, distracted by an email, playing worries over in our minds. But what effect is this having on our lives,relationships and, most importantly, our spiritual health?We need rest ‿the rest that only Christ can give. But this book is not simply meant to get you off your phone, make more time to stop, or help you simplify and digitally detox. Instead, you are invited into the greatest life imaginable, where we have the openness to be interrupted by God and used in a way that will bring Him glory. At the end of each chapter, Thomas encourages us to take time to ponder and pray ‿ or Selah ‿and gives us guiding questions to consider. A challenging read for anyone who feels overwhelmed by all that calls on their attention and for those who long for peace.

Polycarp was Bishop of Smyrna (a city in modern‿day Turkey) in the days of the early church. He was a disciple of the apostle John. He was martyred in his eighties for refusing to burn incense to the Roman emperor. David Luckman‿s new biography in the Trail Blazer series shows readers how this brave man‿s faith was the most important thing to him.

Atheists often level charges at the God of the Bible as being angry and hateful. They claim that God condones genocide, that He is a cruel and oppressive megalomaniac, but this doesn't seem to match what Christians claim about Him being a God of love. How can a God who provides and saves also wipe out entire nations? Richard Belcher's addition to the Big Ten series addresses these commonly asked questions. He begins by laying out how God created humanity in His own image, but we chose to reject Him. Our very sense that things are not fair points to the perfect justice of God. Belcher shows that God's justice, including expressions of anger against wrongdoing, is compatible with His love and goodness. Belcher then tackles specific texts in the Bible that seem to promote genocide and oppression and shows how the God of the Old Testament is the same loving, generous, gracious God that we meet in the person of Jesus Christ. An excellent read for any who struggle to answer questions about the character of God and for those looking to bolster their faith in the God of the Bible.

Eryl Davies‿ short guide to mentoring answers all the most common questions people have about being a mentor. Including the biblical examples of Jesus and Paul, Davies shows how a mentoring relationship is a close, real‿life relationship that can supply us with the wisdom and encouragement we need. A mentor helps to apply biblical wisdom to family and work tensions, suffering, disappointments, difficult choices, bereavement,personal development, spiritual growth.  Davies also includes testimonies from a number of people who have been mentored and are mentoring others, application questions to consider at the end of each chapter, as well as a reading list to examine how other Christians have actively mentored others.

Dementia is experienced in different forms, in different ways and is coped with differently by different people, but with nearly 10 million new cases every year, it is something many people face. It‿s tough on those with the disease, but it is also incredibly hard for the loved ones around them. Karen Martin‿s story about her friend Kathleen, however, is overwhelmingly one of love and persistence. Despite their nearly half‿century age difference, their commonality drew them to each other, and their genuine friendship uplifted them both. Charting the story from pre‿diagnosis to Kathleen‿s eventual passing, this moving tale highlights the difficulties and joys of facing dementia, through the lens of friendship.

"This ... follow-up to the popular A.S.K. takes 52 new questions from real teenagers. Covering issues from society, education, the Bible, theology, God, each short chapter contains a question, a Bible passage, a verse, a discussion, something to consider, further reading and a prayer."--Provided by publisher.

A practical guide for church leaders looking to prevent, or navigate accusations of,pastoral malpractice.  Good spiritual leadership is vital to the health of a church. When leaders misuse their position and are controlling, egotistical and proud, they abuse the trust they have been given by the Lord. Abuse of power is not a new phenomenon however, it is an ancient biblical category, and must be addressed.  There are delicate situations to be navigated. Drawing lines between abuse and normal,appropriate pastoral care, including warning, admonition and discipline is crucial,as is discovering when accusations are false.  The author team behind this book bring many years of pastoral experience, as well as wisdom and training in the area of abuse within the church.    This book is forâEUR"       Those struggling to navigate this hazardous landscapeâEUR"       Church leaders working through these issuesâEUR"       Churches seeking to create a healthy Christian community Contents includeSpiritual Abuse and ScriptureHealthy Church CultureAbusive Church CultureTrauma and those who SufferDeveloping Healthy ProceduresMedia and Abuse

All of the Bible is teachable. However some sections of The Word are easier to preach than others. Bob FyallâEUR(TM)s Why Are We So Often Boring? sets forth a clear discussion around the issues around expositional preaching to pastors, church leaders and students. With social, economic, political and health concerns inherent in many congregations, writing a sermon can be an exercise in balancing a tough equation; how to rely on the truth and relate it to peopleâEUR(TM)s lives. The purpose of this book is to enthuse, encourage and stimulate those who teach the Bible.  Fyall encourages teachers to rely less on behavioural and attitude centred questions, and more on GodâEUR(TM)s omnipotent work in the congregationâEUR(TM)s hearts.

Can work be worship?A Good Return does not provide maxims to get you through the day. Instead, it is a book that encourages Christians to view their workspace as an avenue of worship.  The world of work is expanding. New technologies, industries and means of communication, have presided in the transition of the workplace into a fast, digital and busier-than-ever era.  With increasing demands and declining rewards, in whichever sector you care to name, work can become all-consuming, overwhelming,burdensome, dissatisfying, and more. It becomes easy to complain, drag one's feet while getting out of the door, and face daily tasks with an apathetic attitude.  When battling external pressures and internal conflicts, the workplace is a challenging environment. We need equipped to tackle so many aspects of working life:SalariesWealthTime managementMotivationRest and Sabbath The secular sacred divideEternal rewardsOur digital technological eraGospel supportHow should the Christian navigate these areas? John C. Lennox has crafted a book with thoughtful, biblical and evangelical deliberation on our behaviour in, and towards, our work. With his trademark clarity, faithfulness and wisdom, Lennox invites us into a wider discussion on Christian approaches to lots of areas of working life.  "It will provide great help, encouragement and joyful inspiration to all who are seeking to apply the Lordship of Christ in all these vital areas of life" - Lindsay Brown (Former General Secretary of IFES and International Director, Lausanne Movement)

1600‿1890 The Protestant Reformation had redrawn the map of the Christian world. Now the Church sought to take the hope of the Christian Gospel where it had not been before.  The nearly three centuries covered in this volume give us a picture of the incredible energy and great expansion of the Church throughout the world, and the people who led the way through a variety of abilities that God gave them. Harry Hosier, William Wilberforce, Emilie Mallet, and Sojourner Truth took bold stands against wrongdoing and injustice. Cyril Lucaris, John Owen, John Bunyan,and David Brainerd suffered well as they faithfully shared the goodness of Christ. Great preachers arose in the form of Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, and Charles Spurgeon, all of whom communicated the Gospel with clarity and passion. And God stirred the hearts of missionaries like Robert Moffat, Hudson Taylor, and Dwight Moody to offer hope in Christ to those who were walking in spiritual darkness.  The result was a Church that, by the end of this era, had expanded to lands previously unreached, bringing glory to the Lord who continued to guide His Church.

The Gurvsy family arrived in China during 2017. Two years later they were back home, reeling from the experience and asking, 'What happened?'. After being sent out to missional work, the Gurvsys look back at newsletters, diaries, examining memories and their culture shocks; all with the prayer-fuelled awareness of God, His ways, His Word and His promises. This book is a narrative made possible by reflection. It's a story of waiting, action and benching. It's less an account of missional life in Asia. Rather, a story which reflects the complexities, challenges, choices and changes humanity experiences while here on earth. It's a letter to all who are called to go, be it at home,in work or overseas.