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Testing Fresh Expressions: Identity and Transformation (Routledge Contemporary Ecclesiology)
by John WalkerTesting Fresh Expressions investigates whether fresh expressions of church really do what is claimed for them by the fresh expressions movement and, in particular, whether their unique approach helps to reverse trends of decline experienced by traditional churches. Part 1 examines those claims and untangles their sociological and theological assumptions. From a careful study of factors underlying attendance decline and growth, Part 2 argues that long-term decline can be resisted only if churches are better able to attract children, the non-churched or both. Part 3 tests the comparative ability of a group of growing parish churches and a group of fresh expressions to resist trends of decline and discovers some intriguing social dynamics common to both groups. Part 4 argues that fresh expressions do not fulfil the unique role often claimed for them but that they do have the capacity to help reinvigorate the whole church.
Testing His Patience
by Lyn CoteThe Love Inspired line offers four brand-new monthly stories of faith, love and hope--perfect for bringing readers some relief from today's busy world! Since 1998 the NSR of the Love Inspired line has increased by 15 percentage points, attesting to its incredible demand and popularity. Being deemed responsible for a hung jury, teacher Patience Andrews finds herself at odds with D. A. Gil Montgomery. Determined to prove herself right, Patience gives Gil and all the townsfolk a lesson in friendship and forgiveness.
Testing Prayer
by Candy Gunther BrownWhen sickness strikes, people around the world pray for healing. Many of the faithful claim that prayer has cured them of blindness, deafness, and metastasized cancers, and some believe they have been resurrected from the dead. Can, and should, science test such claims? A number of scientists say no, concerned that empirical studies of prayer will be misused to advance religious agendas. And some religious practitioners agree with this restraint, worrying that scientific testing could undermine faith. In Candy Gunther Brownâs view, science cannot prove prayerâs healing power, but what scientists can and should do is study prayerâs measurable effects on health. If prayer produces benefits, even indirectly (and findings suggest that it does), then more careful attention to prayer practices could impact global health, particularly in places without access to conventional medicine. Drawing on data from Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians, Brown reverses a number of stereotypes about believers in faith-healing. Among them is the idea that poorer, less educated people are more likely to believe in the healing power of prayer and therefore less likely to see doctors. Brown finds instead that people across socioeconomic backgrounds use prayer alongside conventional medicine rather than as a substitute. Dissecting medical records from before and after prayer, surveys of prayer recipients, prospective clinical trials, and multiyear follow-up observations and interviews, she shows that the widespread perception of prayerâs healing power has demonstrable social effects, and that in some cases those effects produce improvements in health that can be scientifically verified.
Tethered to the Cross: The Life and Preaching of Charles H. Spurgeon
by Thomas Breimaier"Tethered to the cross" is how the renowned nineteenth-century English Baptist minister Charles H. Spurgeon (1834–1892) described the task of ministry and his approach to preaching. For nearly four decades, Spurgeon served as the pastor of the church at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. But what specifically guided the reading of Scripture by the man known as the "Prince of Preachers"? Tracing the development of Spurgeon's thought and his approach to biblical hermeneutics throughout his ministry, theologian and historian Thomas Breimaier argues that Spurgeon viewed the entire Bible through the lens of the cross of Christ. This method led Spurgeon to interpret texts in a consistent fashion, resulting in sermons, articles, and instruction that employed cross-centered language, which was aimed at the conversion of unbelievers. With Breimaier as our guide, better understanding of how Spurgeon approached the task of interpreting Scripture and preaching the gospel might enable us, too, to be tethered to the cross of Christ.
Tetsavveh: The JPS B'nai Mitzvah Torah Commentary (JPS Study Bible)
by Rabbi Jeffrey K. SalkinTetsavveh (Exodus 27:20-30:10) and Haftarah (Ezekiel 43:10-27): The JPS B’nai Mitzvah Torah Commentary shows teens in their own language how Torah addresses the issues in their world. The conversational tone is inviting and dignified, concise and substantial, direct and informative. Each pamphlet includes a general introduction, two model divrei Torah on the weekly Torah portion, and one model davar Torah on the weekly Haftarah portion. Jewish learning—for young people and adults—will never be the same. The complete set of weekly portions is available in Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin’s book The JPS B’nai Mitzvah Torah Commentary (JPS, 2017).
Tetsugaku Companion to Nishida Kitarō (Tetsugaku Companions to Japanese Philosophy #4)
by Hisao Matsumaru Yoko Arisaka Lucy Christine SchultzThis book offers the first comprehensive collection of essays on the key concepts of Kitaro Nishida (1870-1945), the father of modern Japanese philosophy and founder of the Kyoto School. The essays analyze several of the major philosophical concepts in Nishida, including pure experience, absolute will, place, and acting intuition. They examine the meaning and positioning of Nishida’s philosophy in the history of philosophy, as well as in the contemporary world, and discuss the relevance of his philosophy in the present context. The book next looks at the significance of Nishida’s philosophy in the wider contexts of science, arts, and religion. The book includes a glossary of key terms that have been translated in a unified manner throughout the volume.
Tetsugaku Companion to Ogyu Sorai (Tetsugaku Companions to Japanese Philosophy #2)
by W. J. Boot Daiki TakayamaThis book contains short analyses (kaidai) of Ogyū Sorai’s (1666-1728) most important works, as well as a biography and a number of essays. The essays explore various aspects of his teachings, of the origins of his thought, and of the reception of his ideas in Japan, China, and Korea before and after "modernization" struck in the second half of the nineteenth century. Ogyū Sorai has come to be considered the pivotal thinker in the intellectual history of Early Modern Japan. More research has been done on Sorai than on any other Confucian thinker of this period. This book disentangles the modern reception from the way in which Sorai's ideas were understood and evaluated in Japan and China in the century following his death. The joint conclusion of the research of a number of the foremost specialists in Japan, Taiwan, and the West is that Sorai was and remains an original, innovative, and important thinker, but that his position within East-Asian thought should be redefined in terms of the East-Asian tradition to which he belonged, and not in the paradigms of European History of Philosophy or Intellectual History. The book represents up-to-date scholarship and allows both the young scholar to acquaint himself with Sorai, and the intellectual historian to compare Sorai with other thinkers of other times and of other philosophical traditions.
Tetsugaku Companion to Ueda Shizuteru: Language, Experience, and Zen (Tetsugaku Companions to Japanese Philosophy #5)
by Ralf Müller Raquel Bouso Adam LoughnaneThis book presents the first collection of essays on the philosophy of Ueda Shizuteru in a Western language. Ueda, the last living member of the Kyoto school, has fostered the East-West dialogue in all his works and has helped to open up the Western image of philosophy by engaging the Zen tradition. The book reflects this particular trait of Ueda’s philosophy, but it also covers all thematic fields of his writings. Contributions from both young and established scholars and experts from Japan, Europe and the U.S. make this a unique introduction to and reception of Ueda’s philosophy. Readers will discover discussions of mysticism in the East and West, and consideration of modern philosophy topics including self-awareness, nature and poetic language. The book also presents a focussed look at language and nothingness, considering silence and nihilism. Chapters allow the reader to understand the timeliness of a thinking that mediates and transcends the dichotomy of East and West. This volume will appeal not only to scholars of Nishida, Japanese philosophy, mysticism and religious experience in Japan, but also to scholars of Western philosophy, especially those interested in Meister Eckhart, Martin Heidegger and Martin Buber. It makes an ideal introduction to Zen philosophy and presents important contributions to scholarship on language and experience.
A Texan's Choice (The Heart of a Hero Series #3)
by Shelley GrayTexas, 1874. Long ago, Scout Proffitt gave up on ever being a man of honor like his Civil War hero brother Clayton. But when Scout steps foot on the rundown remnants of the Circle C ranch, he wonders if maybe—just maybe—the Lord has something different intended for him. Rosemarie has lived most of her life doubting her worth and shouldering the blame for her brother's death. But when a stranger rides onto her ranch, claiming he owns it, she suddenly is given a choice: either keep looking at the dark side of life . . . or dare to dream.
A Texan's Choice
by Shelley GrayTexas, 1874. Long ago, Scout Proffitt gave up on ever being a man of honor like his Civil War hero brother Clayton. But when Scout steps foot on the rundown remnants of the Circle C ranch, he wonders if maybe--just maybe--the Lord has something different intended for him. Rosemarie has lived most of her life doubting her worth and shouldering the blame for her brother's death. But when a stranger rides onto her ranch, claiming he owns it, she suddenly is given a choice: either keep looking at the dark side of life . . . or dare to dream.
The Texan's Courtship Lessons
by Noelle MarchandThe Groom Apprentice Courtship lessons are all Isabelle Bradley can offer when one of her sister's former suitors suddenly comes calling. Unwilling to be someone's backup choice, Isabelle will help the clumsy-yet handsome-blacksmith find and woo his true match. But it certainly won't be her. Rhett Granger's awkwardness around women may be a joke to most of the town, but Rhett isn't laughing. How can he find love when Isabelle, the only woman who doesn't turn him into a tongue-tied fool, won't accept his courtship? Perhaps her "lessons" can give them both the chance to learn about the surprises love can bring... Bachelor List Matches: A hand-picked bride for every bachelor in small-town Texas.
The Texan's Engagement Agreement
by Noelle MarchandSECOND CHANCE REUNION It's been five years since Adelaide Harper broke Chris Johansen's heart-and their long-distance engagement. But when she steps off a train in Peppin, Texas, and strolls back into Chris's life, he can't help but panic. Because to avoid his parents' plan to arrange a marriage for him, he's let his family believe he and Adelaide are still engaged. Adelaide is facing her own troubles with a matchmaking mama and a parade of aggravating suitors. So pretending to let Chris court her could help them both. And after five years, there's no need to worry that the time together will reignite their long-buried love...is there? Bachelor List Matches: A handpicked bride for every bachelor in small-town Texas
A Texan's Honor
by Shelley GrayTexas, 1874. Years ago, Will McMillan had fought in the open, next to his Captain, Clayton Proffitt. Now he's waging another war undercover, pretending to be a member of the notorious Walton Gang. But when a hostage situation goes awry and an innocent woman is in the middle of the fray, Will knows he must protect her no matter what happens. Even if his cover is blown. Even if they risk being killed by his gang or by the lawmen on their trail. Even if the woman he's risking everything for will never love him back.
A Texan's Honor
by Shelley GrayTexas, 1874. Years ago, Will McMillan had fought in the open, next to his Captain, Clayton Proffitt. Now he's waging another war undercover, pretending to be a member of the notorious Walton Gang. But when a hostage situation goes awry and an innocent woman is in the middle of the fray, Will knows he must protect her no matter what happens. Even if his cover is blown. Even if they risk being killed by his gang or by the lawmen on their trail. Even if the woman he's risking everything for will never love him back.
The Texan's Inherited Family
by Noelle MarchandA Father in the Making Busy Texas farmer Quinn Tucker is used to raising crops, not children. So when four nieces and nephews are left in his care, it's not long before he realizes they need a mother. But his search for a wife leads to the least likely woman for illiterate Quinn-schoolmarm Helen McKenna. City girl Helen has been told she'll never have children-and, it seems, a husband. So she jumps at the chance to be a mother to Quinn's little family. Though he is far from her image of an ideal husband, maybe a marriage in name will blossom into something more... Bachelor List Matches: A hand-picked bride for every bachelor in small-town Texas
The Texan's Inherited Family and A Home for His Family
by Noelle Marchand Jan DrexlerA ready-made familyThe Texan's Inherited Family by Noelle Marchand Busy Texas farmer Quinn Tucker is used to raising crops, not children. So when four nieces and nephews are left in his care, it's not long before he realizes they need a mother. But his search for a wife leads to the least likely woman for illiterate Quinn—schoolmarm Helen McKenna. Could a marriage in name only blossom into something more?A Home for His Family by Jan Drexler Nate Colby came to the Dakota Territory to start over, not to look for a wife. He'll raise his orphaned nieces and nephew without schoolteacher Sarah MacFarland's help. Sarah deserves better than a man who only brings trouble to those around him. Yet helping this ready-made family set up their ranch only makes Sarah long to be a part of it—whatever the risk.
The Texan's Journey Home: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance (Lone Star Heritage)
by Jolene NavarroA surprise homecoming… Could give him a second chance. Working as a ranch hand isn&’t Reno Espinoza&’s dream job, but it lets him keep his lifelong secret hidden. Until an accident on the ranch leads him to unintentionally reveal his learning disability to his childhood crush, Lyrissa Martinez. Teaching Reno to read is no trouble for the special ed teacher, but his carefree attitude reminds her of a past she&’s trying to move on from. As the two spend more time together, can they help each other heal old wounds for a chance at forever?From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.Lone Star Heritage
A Texan's Promise
by Shelley GrayWhen Clayton Proffitt, foreman of the Circle Z Ranch in Texas, discovers Vanessa Grant is the victim of her stepfather's advances, Clayton knows he must protect her honor and move her far away from the ranch--and from the man she fears.? As they make their way West, an unexpected, deep bond develops between Vanessa and Clayton--far more powerful than a mere friendship or his sense of duty to her. But Vanessa's stepfather won't let her go so easily. As Clayton and Vanessa place their faith in God and their trust in each other, will they find healing and hope for the future together?
A Texan's Promise
by Shelley GrayPast promises will be tested as new ones are given... When Clayton Proffitt, foreman of the Circle Z Ranch in Texas, discovers Vanessa Grant is the victim of her stepfather's advances, Clayton knows he must protect her honor and move her far away from the ranch--and from the man she fears.? As they make their way West, an unexpected, deep bond develops between Vanessa and Clayton--far more powerful than a mere friendship or his sense of duty to her. But Vanessa's stepfather won't let her go so easily. As Clayton and Vanessa place their faith in God and their trust in each other, will they find healing and hope for the future together? "Shelley Gray is a wonderful storyteller, and A Texan's Promise captured me from the first page. This endearing love story is so rich with detail, I felt like I was traveling alongside Vanessa and Clayton throughout their incredible journey. Clayton is the hero every woman dreams of, and I loved watching Vanessa grow from a scared girl into a strong woman. This is a wonderful start to this new series. Highly recommended." - Beth Wiseman Best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series "Shelley Gray's fans will enjoy riding along with her characters down a new trail of romance in A Texan's Promise, the first in The Heart of a Hero series. Readers will be rooting for Clayton and Vanessa to find their way to a true and lasting love." - Ann H. Gabhart, author of The Outsider, Summer of Joy, and Angel Sister
The Texan's Promise (Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch #3)
by Jolene NavarroSometimes finding common ground is easier said than done…He’s in town on a mission…Will she change his mind?When a lightning storm lands Quinn Sinclair on single mom Belle De La Rosa’s ranch, she finds herself drawn to the handsome conservationist and his children. Belle isn’t looking for love—not while she’s trying to sell part of her ranch to developers to stay afloat. But when she discovers that Quinn’s purpose in town is to stop the sale, can she trust him…with her heart?Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch
The Texan's Secret Daughter: A Fresh-Start Family Romance (Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch)
by Jolene NavarroCan this rancher make up for his past?A Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch romanceTurning his life around was the hardest thing Elijah De La Rosa ever had to do—until his ex-wife, Jazmine Daniels, returns with their young daughter he didn’t know existed. Now this successful rancher will do anything to be a good father. But can he forgive himself for the past…and turn their second chance into a family for always?
The Texan's Surprise Return (Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch)
by Jolene NavarroHis greatest Christmas gifts…“Is that you? You’re…you’re alive.”An unforgettable family reunion for the holidays.For three years, Xavier De La Rosa’s family thought he was dead. Now Xavier is back home in Texas for Christmas, and finds a wife he can’t remember and adorable triplets he never knew existed. Can Xavier reclaim his memories and the love he left behind…before he returns to the job that nearly killed him?Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch
The Texan's Truth (Cowboys of Diamondback Ranch #5)
by Jolene NavarroIs he ready to be a family man?He’s always been a loner,but coming home could change everything… Returning to his hometown, Bridges Espinoza’s surprised to find his cousin’s widow, Lilianna—the woman he once secretly loved—there as well. But even more stunning is the child who shows up claiming to be his son. Certain he can’t be a father, Bridges works with Lilianna to find the truth. But a shocking discovery about Cooper’s parentage could tear their makeshift family apart…From Harlequin Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.Cowboys of Diamondback RanchBook 1: The Texan’s Secret DaughterBook 2: The Texan’s Surprise ReturnBook 3: The Texan’s PromiseBook 4: The Texan’s Unexpected HolidayBook 5: The Texan’s Truth
The Texan's Twin Blessings
by Rhonda GibsonStand-In Father As temporary guardian to his twin baby nieces, William Barns barely knows a diaper from a burp cloth. The well-meaning but meddling neighbor ladies suggest a wife-namely Emily Jane Rodgers. Although William isn't in the market for a bride, he needs a loving woman to watch over the children, and Emily Jane fits the bill nicely. Emily Jane agrees to care for William's nieces-not become his betrothed. Fully determined to find her own way in life and to open her own bakery, Emily Jane isn't looking for a husband. But no matter how hard she resists, Emily Jane is roped in by the twins' little hugs and William's tender regard. And soon she longs to be a permanent part of this ready-made family...
The Texan's Twins
by Jolene NavarroBig Texan ReunionBetween providing for her five-year-old twins and achieving her dream of running a wildlife sanctuary, Danica Bergmann has no room for anything—or anyone—else. So when the wildlife volunteer she’s taken on turns out to be Reid McAllister, her secret husband, who disappeared before she got a chance to reveal she was pregnant, it flips her world upside down. Six years ago he wasn’t worth chasing down, but Danica can tell Reid’s a changed man—and he’s still the only man she’s ever loved. It’s a long road to redemption, but can Danica learn to trust Reid with their children…and their future?