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A Concise History of the Christian World Mission: A Panoramic View of Missions from Pentecost to the Present
by Herbert J. KaneAn excellent introductory survey of Christian missions from A.D. 30 to the twentieth century.
A Concise History of the Middle East
by Lawrence Davidson Arthur Goldschmidt Jr.The ninth edition of this widely acclaimed text by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. and Lawrence Davidson has been extensively revised to reflect the latest scholarship and the most recent events in the Middle East.<P><P> As an introduction to the history of this turbulent region from the beginnings of Islam to the present day, the book is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. It focuses on the evolution of Islamic institutions and culture, the influence of the West, the modernization efforts of Middle Eastern governments, the struggle of various peoples for political independence, the course of the Arab-Israeli conflict, the reassertion of Islamic values and power, the issues surrounding the Palestinian Question, and the roles of Iraq and Iran in the post-9/11 Middle East. Nine maps newly commissioned for the ninth edition highlight key aspects of Middle East history. Two popular study aids, the chronology and the glossary, have been extensively revised, and the superlative bibliographic essay, an essential guide to further reading, has been thoroughly rewritten to reflect current scholarship.
A Concise Introduction To World Religions
by Alan Segal Amir Hussain Willard Oxtoby Roy AmoreBased on the bestselling two-volume World Religions: Eastern and Western Traditions, A Concise Introduction to World Religions, Third Edition, is ideal for single-semester courses. Renowned contributors trace the origins and evolution of the major traditions, explain their essential teachings, outline their practices, and examine their interactions with modern culture and society, while insightful introductory and concluding essays suggest countless avenues for further reflection and study.
A Concise Reader of Chinese Culture (China Insights)
by Chunsong GanThis book uses the mutual interactions between Chinese and Western culture as a point of departure in order to concisely introduce the origins and evolution of Chinese culture at the aspects of constitution, thinking, values and atheistic. This book also analyzes utensil culture, constitution culture and ideology culture, which were perfected by absorbing classic arguments from academia. As such, the book offers an essential guide to understanding the development, civilization and key ideologies in Chinese history, and will thus help to promote Chinese culture and increase cultural awareness.
A Concise guide to Adult Faith Formation (The Concise Guide Series)
by Neil A. ParentParent articulates his view that learning about the faith in adulthood is not merely an extension of basic childhood religious education, but is rather a continuous, lifelong process. Drawing from years of experience leading the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership, Parent combines Church teaching and adult learning theory to make this a must-read for pastors, catechists, and students in faith formation ministries.
A Confession (Hesperus Classics Ser.)
by Leo Tolstoy Aylmer MaudeDespite having written War and Peace and Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy, at the age of 51, looked back on his life and considered it a meaningless, regrettable failure. A Confession provides insight into the great Russian writer's movement from the pursuit of aesthetic ideals toward matters of religious and philosophical consequence.Authentic and genuinely moving, this memoir of midlife spiritual crisis was first distributed in 1872 and marked a turning point in the author's career as a writer: in subsequent years, Tolstoy would write almost exclusively about religious life, especially devotion among the peasantry.Generations of readers have been inspired by this heartfelt reexamination of Christian orthodoxy and subsequent spiritual awakening. Ranked among the best books on the subject, this timeless work is for anyone who has ever worried about the fleeting nature of life and speculated about the value of existence.
A Confession (Penguin Great Ideas)
by Leo TolstoyDescribing Tolstoy's crisis of depression and estrangement from the world, A Confession is an autobiographical work of exceptional emotional honesty. It describes his search for 'a practical religion not promising future bliss but giving bliss on earth'. Although the Confession led to his excommunication, it also resulted in a large following of Tolstoyan Christians springing up throughout Russia and Europe. Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have transformed the way we see ourselves – and each other. They have inspired debate, dissent, war and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged, provoked and comforted. They have enriched lives – and destroyed them. Now Penguin brings you the works of the great thinkers, pioneers, radicals and visionaries whose ideas shook civilization and helped make us who we are.
A Confession and Other Religious Writings
by Leo Tolstoy Jane KentishDescribing Tolstoy's crisis of depression and estrangement from the world, A Confession(1879) is an autobiographical work of exceptional emotional honesty. By the time he was fifty, Tolstoy had already written the novels that would assure him of literary immortality; he had a wife, a large estate and numerous children; he was 'a happy man' and in good health - yet life had lost its meaning. In this poignant confessional fragment, he records a period of his life when he began to turn away from fiction and aesthetics, and to search instead for 'a practical religion not promising future bliss but giving bliss on earth'. His searingly honest search for spiritual fulfilment also inspires the three other works collected here: Religion and Morality(1893), What is Religionand of What Does Its Essence Consist?(1902) and The Law of Love and the Law of Violence(1908).
A Confession and Other Religious Writings
by Leo TolstoyDescribing Tolstoy's crisis of depression and estrangement from the world, A Confession (1879) is an autobiographical work of exceptional emotional honesty. By the time he was fifty, Tolstoy had already written the novels that would assure him of literary immortality; he had a wife, a large estate and numerous children; he was 'a happy man' and in good health - yet life had lost its meaning. In this poignant confessional fragment, he records a period of his life when he began to turn away from fiction and aesthetics, and to search instead for 'a practical religion not promising future bliss, but giving bliss on earth'.
A Conflict of Visions: Ideological Origins of Political Struggles
by Thomas SowellIn this classic work, Thomas Sowell analyzes the two competing visions that shape our debates about the nature of reason, justice, equality, and power. The "constrained" vision, which sees human nature as unchanging and selfish, and the "unconstrained" vision, in which human nature is malleable and perfectible. He describes how these two radically opposed views have manifested themselves in the political controversies of the past two centuries, including such contemporary issues as welfare reform, social justice, and crime. Updated to include sweeping political changes since its first publication in 1987, this revised edition of A Conflict of Visions offers a convincing case that ethical and policy disputes circle around the disparity between both outlooks.
A Confucian Constitutional Order: How China's Ancient Past Can Shape Its Political Future (The Princeton-China Series #4)
by Jiang QingWhat a Confucian constitutional government might look like in China's political futureAs China continues to transform itself, many assume that the nation will eventually move beyond communism and adopt a Western-style democracy. But could China develop a unique form of government based on its own distinct traditions? Jiang Qing—China's most original, provocative, and controversial Confucian political thinker—says yes. In this book, he sets out a vision for a Confucian constitutional order that offers a compelling alternative to both the status quo in China and to a Western-style liberal democracy. A Confucian Constitutional Order is the most detailed and systematic work on Confucian constitutionalism to date.Jiang argues against the democratic view that the consent of the people is the main source of political legitimacy. Instead, he presents a comprehensive way to achieve humane authority based on three sources of political legitimacy, and he derives and defends a proposal for a tricameral legislature that would best represent the Confucian political ideal. He also puts forward proposals for an institution that would curb the power of parliamentarians and for a symbolic monarch who would embody the historical and transgenerational identity of the state. In the latter section of the book, four leading liberal and socialist Chinese critics—Joseph Chan, Chenyang Li, Wang Shaoguang, and Bai Tongdong—critically evaluate Jiang's theories and Jiang gives detailed responses to their views.A Confucian Constitutional Order provides a new standard for evaluating political progress in China and enriches the dialogue of possibilities available to this rapidly evolving nation. This book will fascinate students and scholars of Chinese politics, and is essential reading for anyone concerned about China's political future.
A Conspiracy Of Goodness: Contemporary Images Of Christian Mission
by Donald E. MesserDescribes the biblical mandates for the mission of ministry and calls church leaders to understand the world as God's body.
A Constellation of Authority: Castilian Bishops and the Secular Church During the Reign of Alfonso VIII (Iberian Encounter and Exchange, 475–1755)
by Kyle C. LincolnDuring the long reign of Alfonso VIII, Castilian bishops were crusaders, castellans, cathedral canons, and collegiate officers, and they served as powerful intermediaries between the pope and the king of Castile. In A Constellation of Authority, Kyle C. Lincoln traces the careers of a septet of these bishops and uses this history to fill in much of what really happened in thirteenth-century Castile.The relationships that local prelates cultivated with Alfonso VIII and the Castilian royal family existed in tension with how they related to the reigning pope. Drawing on diocesan archives, monastic collections, and chronicles, Lincoln reconstructs the complex negotiations and navigations these bishops undertook to maintain the balance among the papal and royal agendas and their own interests. Lincoln examines the bishops' ties to crusades and political influence, the growth of canon and Roman law, religious and church reform, and the canonization of local leaders. In the process, he makes the case that the medieval past is best illuminated by the combined luminescence of a “constellation of authority” represented, at least in part, by a conglomerate of bishops.Through seven case studies, each examining a prelate in his individual historical context, A Constellation of Authority improves our understanding of the politics of thirteenth-century Castile and provides an important foundation for further consideration of the ties between Castile and the broader European medieval world. It will appeal to medieval Hispanists and historians of the medieval church and episcopacy.
A Contemporary Handbook for Weddings & Funerals and Other Occasions: Revised and Updated
by Aubrey MalphursGuidance, advice, and ready-to-use sermons and services for the busy pastorWeddings and funerals are some of the most meaningful events in people's lives, and also some of the most challenging for the pastor to perform. Written with the needs of the busy pastor in mind, this popular and newly updated handbook includes everything necessary to conduct a variety of weddings and funerals, along with other common events such as Communion, baptisms, dedications, and ordinations.Helpful aids for weddings include services, vow renewals, messages, prayers, guidelines for vows, information on marriage laws, and, new in this edition, a service and message for second marriages. Guidance for funerals covers orders of service, quotations and reflections, and eulogies for a variety of circumstances, incorporating those with evangelistic appeal, untimely deaths, and suicide. New to this edition are funerals for service members, victims of violence, accidental deaths, cancer, and community tragedies.Additional new resources include blessing services for a home or special event and guidance for speaking at fraternal organizations.Pastors of all denominations will benefit from the services, advice, and resources in this sought-after handbook.
A Contemporary Introduction to the Bible: Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts
by David M. Carr Colleen M. ConwayExplore a timely introduction to the formation of the Bible in its historical and modern contexts In the newly revised Second Edition of A Contemporary Introduction to the Bible: Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts, accomplished scholars and authors Colleen M. Conway and David M. Carr deliver a rigorous, accessible, and up-to-date introduction to the Bible. The textbook places the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and New Testament in the broader context of world history, with a special focus on the empires that influenced the Bible’s formation. Readers are introduced to the academic study of the Bible through a range of scholarly approaches. Readers benefit from the inclusion of: A thorough introduction to the Bible in its ancient contexts, from the emergence of Israel’s earliest traditions to the writing and reshaping of the Bible amidst Assyrian Babylonian, Persian, Hellenistic and Roman empires. The most up-to-date work in the field, seamlessly integrated into every chapter A wealth of pedagogical features including study questions, bibliographies, timelines, and illustrations An unparalleled coverage of both fundamental topics and cutting-edge issues, resulting in a truly outstanding textbook. Perfect for undergraduate and graduate students studying religion, history, sociology, and philosophy, A Contemporary Introduction to the Bible: Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts, Second Edition will also earn a place in the libraries of religious scholars and researchers seeking a one-stop reference to the Bible in its ancient and modern context.
A Contemporary Introduction to the Bible: Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts
by Colleen M. Conway and David M. CarrExplore a timely introduction to the formation of the Bible in its historical and modern contexts In the newly revised Second Edition of A Contemporary Introduction to the Bible: Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts, accomplished scholars and authors Colleen M. Conway and David M. Carr deliver a rigorous, accessible, and up-to-date introduction to the Bible. The textbook places the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and New Testament in the broader context of world history, with a special focus on the empires that influenced the Bible’s formation. Readers are introduced to the academic study of the Bible through a range of scholarly approaches.
A Contemporary Renaissance: Gulen's Philosophy for a Global Revival of Civilization
by Sulayman AshratiAshrati's book is a study of intellectual framework laid out by Fethullah Gulen in his call for the revival of humanity's changing power. Gulen, a prominent scholar of Islam and a social activist, is the inspiration behind the global network of education, charity and interfaith dialogue. This book is an attempt to show how significant Gulen's layout for reconstruction is to Islam and to the rest of the world.In his analysis of Gulen's thought of reconstruction, Ashrati looks at concepts including the strategy of nonviolence, spiritual dimension of revival, foundations of humanism in Islam, intellectual and spiritual leadership, men of service, and integration of science and religion. His analogy of construction and architectural work comes handy in understanding both the complexity and openness of the call for revival by Gulen.
A Contemporary Theology for Ecumenical Peace
by James E. WillA biblical, theological, and ethical discussion of the Abrahamic religions commitment to universal peace from a primarily Christian perspective to sustain contemporary praxis.
A Contemporary Turkish Prison Diary: Reflections on the Writings of Said Nursi and Aleksander Solzhenitsyn
by Ismail AlbayrakThis book explores the religious experiences of two notable figures who endured severe trials under authoritarian regimes: Bediuzzaman Said Nursi (1877–1960) within the Islamic tradition, and Aleksander Solzhenitsyn (1918–2008) within the Russian Orthodox Christian tradition. Against the tumultuous backdrop of the twentieth century’s spiritual, social, political, and intellectual upheavals, both Nursi and Solzhenitsyn grappled with immense hardships because of their beliefs. Despite immense tribulations, both individuals demonstrated unwavering faith and resilience in the face of adversity, continuing their scholarly and literary activities. The current study centers on the dichotomy of spiritual confinement and expansiveness, illustrating how people can experience spiritual distress even without physical restraints. It explores the historical and conceptual aspects of imprisonment within Christian and Muslim perspectives, explores the reasons for Nursi and Solzhenitsyn's incarceration, examines their coping mechanisms in the face of hardship, and underscores the role of faith and spirituality. The author integrates personal experiences, particularly his own incarceration during the aftermath of the 2016 Turkish staged coup attempt, within the context of the narratives of Nursi and Solzhenitsyn. The book addresses court proceedings, release, departure from Turkey, and resettlement in Australia. Throughout, the author draws parallels between their own observations and those of Nursi and Solzhenitsyn, contributing to the broader discourse on individual spirituality and collective consciousness. The book offers insights into spiritual resilience in the face of adversity, utilizing the lives of these figures to illuminate shared human experiences. A unique collation of personal narration and scholarly reflection, it is relevant to academics and students in history, political science, sociology, Islamic and Middle Eastern studies, and to social scientists researchingthe phenomenon of exile and prison in different countries across the world. It also speaks to the work of activists and policymakers in human rights.
A Continual Feast: Words of comfort and celebration, Collected by Father Tim
by Jan KaronA collection of Father Tim's favorite words of wisdom and spiritual inspiration--from the bestselling author of At Home in Mitford and Somebody Safe with Somebody Good For years, Mitford's Father Tim Kavanagh has transcribed into his dog-eared journals words of wisdom, faith, and encouragement. Written in his own hand or typed on his idiosyncratic Royal typewriter, A Continual Feast contains the lively ideas, common sense, profound wisdom, and plain good humor he has gleaned from the likes of C. S. Lewis, Emily Dickinson, William Blake, Helen Keller, G. K. Chesterton, and Will Rogers, to name just a few. Together with its successful companion volume, Patches of Godlight, Father Tim's latest quote journal is sure proof of the truth of an entry from Lord Byron: "A small drop of ink produces that which makes thousands think."
A Convenient Amish Bride: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
by Lucy BayerTwo girls need a mother… And she&’s ready for the job. After the loss of her perfect match, Amish waitress Ruby Kaufmann resigns herself to a solitary life—until she meets widower David Weiss and his young daughters. Ruby has always wanted a family, and David is desperate for help because his aging parents can no longer assist with the girls. Will a marriage of convenience be the perfect solution…or a second chance at love neither expects?From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
A Convenient Bride
by Angela WellsTwo weeks to find a wife!Getting married was the last thing Luc Benchard wanted to do. But if he didn't marry before his thirty-third birthday, just two weeks away, he stood to lose a fortune....Aphra Grantly was single, and already living in Luc's family home! She would make a perfect convenient bride-and, in theory, the idea wasn't altogether unattractive to Aphra. After all, it would allow her to stay in the house she loved. But when Aphra found herself on honeymoon with the most desirable man she'd ever met, she knew she was in real danger of falling in love with her own temporary husband. Which wasn't very convenient at all!
A Convenient Christmas Bride
by Rhonda GibsonHitched for the Holidays After a pupil's prank forces Anna Mae Leland to take shelter with a widowed sheriff during a blizzard, she loses her teaching job-but gains a fiancé. Josiah Miller needs a mother for his twin daughters and Anna Mae needs to protect her reputation. This business-only arrangement means the recently jilted Anna Mae need never risk the folly of love again. Josiah has long admired the town's spirited schoolteacher from afar. In close quarters, she's an ideal friend and helpmate. Yet Christmas's arrival brings a gift neither dared hope for-a second chance at love and happiness...but only if they'll forego what's practical and follow their hearts.
A Convenient Christmas Bride and The Rancher's Christmas Proposal
by Rhonda Gibson Sherri ShackelfordHitched for the holidays A Convenient Christmas Bride by Rhonda Gibson After a pupil's prank forces Anna Mae Leland to take shelter with a widowed sheriff during a blizzard, she loses her teaching job—but gains a fiancé. Josiah Miller needs a mother for his twin daughters and Anna Mae needs to protect her reputation. Soon Christmas's arrival brings a gift neither dared hope for—a second chance at love and happiness…but only if they'll forego what's practical and follow their hearts.The Rancher's Christmas Proposal by Sherri Shackelford Single father and rancher Shane McCoy needs help raising his two-year-old twins. An encounter with a lovely stranger offers an unconventional answer to his predicament when she suggests a marriage of convenience. Tessa Spencer needs a fresh start and protection from a vengeful outlaw. Shane's ranch provides refuge, and his children easily win Tessa's affections. But as her past resurfaces, only honesty and trust will make this family Christmas the first of many…
A Convenient Christmas Wedding
by Regina ScottThe Marriage Agreement Proposing a marriage of convenience to a rugged logger is the boldest move of Nora Underhill's sheltered life. In return for Simon Wallin's protection from her overbearing family, the unassuming seamstress offers prime frontier farmland. But their paper marriage changes when Nora's greedy brother tries to draw her back into a life of drudgery. Her only option: move to Simon's farm, and into the center of his loving, unruly family. Years of shouldering responsibility have left Simon cynical and reserved. But little by little, Nora's warmth opens his shuttered heart to joy. With their marriage claim under threat, can this practical arrangement blossom over the holidays...and become a love for all seasons?