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Will You Pray with Me: A Guide for Those Who Pray in Public
by Anne Williams Steven LanghoferLearn to capably lead others in prayer, in any setting, on any occasion.Leading congregations and other groups in prayer is a significant challenge for many pastors and other ministry leaders. What to say, and how to say it? Most public pray-ers have received very little training and have not had the chance to develop deep skills. Some folks attack the task with little or no preparation, simply winging it, and usually sensing they have not quite hit the mark. Others furiously try to prepare but become frustrated or overwhelmed. No wonder there’s such anxiety about this topic.Will You Pray with Me is a short course, in book form, for all who lead others in prayer. The authors teach methods and techniques for writing and leading prayers in traditional church services, special services, for hospital visits, in impromptu situations, and in many other less conventional spaces and circumstances. They include multiple examples of different types of prayer, with analysis alongside the prayer texts to help the reader understand what the methods look like in ‘real life’.The book begins with a set of basic principles, the essential skills and strategies for leading prayer. Subsequent chapters cover writing techniques, tips and habits for effective delivery of prayers aloud, and guidance for specific challenges, including prayer during times of social distancing and pandemic. Also included is a rich selection of prayers for readers to use in their own church services or other settings, or for personal devotion. Will You Pray with Me is for pastors, chaplains, congregational care ministers, ministry leaders, and students in seminary or other ministry training courses.
7 Ways of Teaching the Bible to Children: Includes 25 Lessons, Plus Activities That Satisfy Different Learning Styles
by Barbara BruceThere are seven distinct ways of teaching and learning: verbal/linguistic, logical/mathematical, visual/spatial, body/kinesthetic, musical/rhythmic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal. In 7 Ways of Teaching the Bible to Children, Barbara Bruce uses these seven learning styles to show you how to meet the various learning needs of each child in your classroom. The 25 Old and New Testament lessons which are included feature warm-up exercises, scripture readings, activities, and options for tailoring the lesson to all your students' individual learning needs. Practical advice for discovering each child's learning preferences, reproducible patterns and handouts, and a teacher training session are also included. The Bible story lessons can be used independently or with existing class curriculum.
Covenant Bible Study: Trusting Participant Guide (Covenant Bible Study)
by Covenant Bible Study Christine A. Chakoian David A. DeSilva Prof. David L. Bartlett Dr Alejandro F. Botta Dr Michael Joseph Brown Dr Diane Chen Dr Stephanie Buckhanon Crowder Prof. Judy Fentress-Williams Prof. Francisco Garcia-Treto Roy Heller Prof. Matthew L. Skinner Dr Brent A. Strawn Prof. Monya Stubbs Dr Audrey West Prof. Christine R. Yoder Dr Jaime Clark-Soles Dr William P. Brown Dr Amy Erickson Prof. Linda M. Day Dr Patricia K. Tull Dr Melody Knowles Prof. Thomas B. Slater Dr Daniel L. Smith-Christopher Rev Shane StanfordThis Covenant experience will guide participants in a comprehensive, in-depth study of the Bible over twenty-four weeks. Unlike the learning participants may have experienced in other groups, this in-depth study of the whole Bible emphasizes the biblical concept of covenant as a unifying pattern through all the books in the Old and New Testaments. It underscores the unique relationship that God chooses to have with us as God’s people. This relationship is grounded in the faithfulness of God’s love and on our ongoing commitment to stay in love with God while we share signs of that love with others.Each episode connects to an aspect of this covenant relationship, which is summarized in the heading of each participant guide. LIFE, AS WE ALL KNOW TOO WELL, IS IMPERFECT. Difficulties are inevitable. That’s why the final eight-weeks, Trusting the Covenant, looks at the crises that sometimes call covenant life into question, and how we are restored to trust in God when troubling things happen.This module discusses the loss of hope, and how it is restored by faithfulness in the midst of suffering. From the story of Job, to the Hebrew exile, to the apocalyptic visions in Daniel and Revelation, we learn how faithful love is at work in everything—to restore hope, freedom, and wholeness to our lives. Each participant in the group needs the Participant Guides and a Bible. The CEB Study Bible is preferred.The Trusting Participant Guide is 8 weeks long, and has a lay flat binding making it easy to take notes in the generous space provided on each page. The Trusting Participant Guide contains the following episodes: Episode 17: John; 1, 2, and 3 JohnFor John the God we meet in Jesus is the one who keeps coming into the world, going out of the way to be in relationship with us. Jesus meets his followers in whatever ways they need with new and abundant life. Jesus draws people back into community and promises the Holy Spirit to those who follow him.Episode 18: PsalmsPsalms are songs, poems, and prayers to and about God. There is diversity of authorship across the Psalms. Three major types of psalms are laments, thanksgiving psalms, and psalms of praise. The psalms are user-friendly and give voice to our conflicts, confessions, and cries for God’s rescuing help. The Psalms teach us how to pray and that God’s primary character trait is faithful love. Episode 19: JobLike the Bible as a whole, the book of Job offers a number of voices or perspectives. Job stages difficult human questions such as, “Why do human beings worship God?” or “Why do people suffer?” and even, “what is God’s role in suffering?” The book of Job also asks, “Does good behavior bring blessing?” and “Does bad behavior bring curse and suffering?”Episode 20: Jeremiah, Lamentations, EzekielJeremiah, Lamentations, and Ezekiel offer three different perspectives on the same catastrophic event: the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 587 CE and the exile of God’s people to a foreign land.These books affirm the power of lingering with sorrow so we can hear the voices of those who are suffering. Any hope found in these books remains in the promise that God will bring life to dry bones or write a new covenant on hearts in a blessed but distant future.Episode 21: Isaiah 40-66The story of how Israel gained and lost the land becomes a treasure that they carry with them into exile. The poetry in these passages is written to inspire and invite God’s homesick people in Babylon to become pioneers and return home to Israel. The God of Israel is no regional deity but is the one and only God of all, everywhere and all the time. Through fire and water, chaos and captivity, the people called by God and redeemed by God also belong to God.Episode 22: 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra, NehemiahThe people returning home from exile in successive waves must rebuild their whole way of life. Ezra and Nehemiah look at the practical need for city walls and a center for worship. The Chronicler stresses the importance of “re-remembering” our story in the right way in order to understand who we are in this new
Through Mark's Eyes: A Portrait of Jesus Based on the Gospel of Mark
by Puck PurnellIncludes Study Guide Through Mark’s Eyes invites you into the Jesus story—to walk the dusty roads, to row the boats on the Sea of Galilee, to witness healings, to stand in the Temple, and to weep at the cross. This dramatic, colorful, moving version of the Gospel of Mark is not a new translation; instead, Puck Purnell augments the New Revised Standard Version of Mark with vivid language and descriptions to reimagine the Gospel story and breathe fresh life into it. “I was spellbound by Through Mark’s Eyes. I doubt I have ever read a gospel account from start to finish without interruption or desire for one.” -Barbara Howe, Harford, CT “I very much enjoyed reading Through Mark’s Eyes. I loved that the story was easy to follow. As for my plain, honest opinion, I can see people of my age reading, enjoying, and understanding this book.” -Allison Swayne, 8th grade, Henry James Middle School, Simsbury, CT “You have managed to convey the roughness and immediacy of Mark in a more contemporary narrative mode….Your work will offer people some new points of entry into the story and will stimulate reflection and discussion.” -L. William Countryman, Sherman E. Johnson Professor in Biblical Studies, Church Divinity School of the Pacific Puck Purnell, an Episcopal priest, serves as Rector at Old St. Andrew’s Church in Bloomfield, CT. A graduate of Berkeley Divinity School at Yale, he is a talented preacher and teacher. Mr. Purnell lives with his wife, Joanne Kimball, in Simsbury, CT.
Wonder of Christmas
by Peg AugustineA look at the Christmas story with the emphasis on the “wonder” of the season. Each page begins with “I wonder…” and journeys chronologically from Mary and Joseph’s trip to Bethlehem through the Wise Men’s return home. A short prayer and biblical text follow this on each page. Each facing page has the Spanish translation of the story.
Standing on the Promises or Sitting on the Premises?
by James W. MooreAre you standing on the promises or just sitting on the premises? Do you claim and embrace and celebrate the great promises of God that are underscored again and again in the Bible? Or do you sit lifelessly and listlessly on the remote edges of the church, responding halfheartedly to its message?In this new edition of his inspiring book, James W. Moore awakens us with these questions and reminds us of the awesome promises of God that are found in the Bible. On page after page of the Scriptures, God gives us generous and gracious promises that we can claim and rely on. The author shows that when we fail to lean on God and trust in these promises, we open ourselves to many frustrating, embarrassing, even painful experiences. Yet when we truly “stand on the promises,” we discover the richness and fullness that God intended for our lives.This new edition of the book includes a study guide.
The Love of a Dad: Spiritual Thoughts for Fathers
by James W. MoorePopular author James W. Moore says, "Joseph must have been a good father because Jesus called God ‘Father,’ and that was obviously a good image in his mind." In this book the author shares inspiring thoughts and stories about fathers and how they can look to God as the best example of a loving parent, one filled with grace and compassion, mercy and kindness. Chapters include "A Father’s Great Faith," "What Are You Going to Do with the Rest of Your Life?" "Teaching Our Children to Love," and others.
What Every Christian Needs to Know About Judaism: Exploring the Ever-Connected World of Christians & Jews
by Evan MofficExplore the wisdom and traditions of the Jewish faith and examine what they mean for Christians."In this extraordinary book, Rabbi Evan Moffic takes Christians on a journey through the roots of our faith, by giving insight into the history and tradition that Jesus would have observed. In this way, Rabbi Moffic provides the backstory to the main story. If you want to get more from your faith, this book is a must-read!" —Dave Adamson, Pastor, North Pointe Church "Rabbi Moffic is an engaging teacher who excels at communicating ancient truths for modern audiences. His insights into Hebrew scriptures and the Jewish heritage of the Christian faith will be a blessing to all who want to learn." —Steve Gillen, Pastor, Willow Creek Community ChurchWhen Christians learn about Jewish tradition and history, they see the Bible and the life of Jesus with a new and enriched perspective. Knowing more about Judaism brings them closer to Jesus because Jesus lived and died as a Jew and consistently quoted the Jewish scripture and stories. In this book Evan Moffic, popular rabbi, author, and guide to Jewish wisdom for people of all faiths, continues the What Every Christian Needs to Know About series with an exploration of the wisdom and traditions of Judaism. Rabbi Moffic provides answers to hundreds of questions he receives about Judaism to provide a deeper understanding of the roots shared by Christians and Jews. Through this book’s explorations, readers will learn insights of the great Jewish sages to live a richer and more meaningful life, soak up the wisdom and traditions of Judaism, and a develop closer relationship with God. "My hope is that these teachings can serve as a way of fostering bonds focused not on the past and the troubled history between Jews and Christians, but rather one looking forward to a future in which we share wisdom with one another." – Rabbi Evan MofficProduct Features: A popular rabbi explores Jewish wisdom and traditions for Christian readers. Topics explored include: Jewish texts, spiritual life, holidays and events, and others. Highlights intersections of the Jewish and Christian faith that give deeper meaning to reading the Bible.
Hebrews Leader Guide: Grace and Gratitude (Hebrews)
by David A. deSilvaThe Book of Hebrews helps us see the connection between God’s grace in our lives and the call to invest ourselves in God’s mission in the world. In doing so, we express gratitude for the salvation we have received and respond to God’s grace by being faithful to the One who delivers us.In Hebrews: Grace and Gratitude, author and New Testament scholar David deSilva takes you through a study of Hebrews, tracing the themes of grace and gratitude through this unique New Testament book. In the Book of Hebrews, you will discover a bold perspective on who Jesus is and what he has done, as well as a powerful reflection on the meaning and significance of his death and resurrection in light of the Old Testament. As you read and study this letter, you will receive a deeper appreciation for the salvation we have received through Christ and hear afresh God’s call to a life of gratitude and faithfulness.The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the six-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1 (The Psalm 23 Mysteries)
by Debbie ViguieCindy’s church is getting ready to celebrate Easter, and Jeremiah’s Temple is preparing for Passover when Cindy literally stumbles over the body of an unknown man lying dead in the sanctuary. The church was locked, and a bloody cross necklace on the floor seems to be the only clue. The killer is likely a member of the congregation, but there are hints that similar deaths have happened in the past. Are Cindy and Jeremiah dealing with a serial killer? They have to unravel the clues before Easter Sunday arrives and more people die. Cindy and Jeremiah come from two different worlds, even though they work right next door to each other. Cindy is a strong Christian who lives a normal but somewhat dull life, working as a church secretary. Jeremiah is a Reformed rabbi with a mysterious past full of danger and excitement. But one eventful Easter/Passover week, the two find themselves working together to solve a murder and stop a serial killer from striking again. Solving the mystery should put an end to their alliance, but the church secretary and the rabbi quickly find themselves enmeshed in another mystery. Soon the two form a friendly alliance and friendship, exploring personal history and faith and growing closer with each passing adventure. Despite their differences Cindy and Jeremiah find a lot of common ground.
Christianity and World Religions Revised Edition: Questions We Ask About Other Faiths (Christianity and World Religions)
by Adam HamiltonIn Christianity and World Religions, Pastor and best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores four major world religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism—and the beliefs of each with those of Christianity. He deals openly and honestly with questions people ask about other religions like: Why are there so many different religions? How should Christians view other religions? How is God at work in other religions? What is the fate of those who earnestly pursue God through other religions?In examining these major world religions and the beliefs of their followers, Hamilton urges us as Christians to build bridges with others so that we might grow in our faith, seek peace in our world, love our neighbor, and find positive ways to share the gospel.Additional components for a six-week study include a Leader Guide to help facilitate each weekly session and a DVD featuring Hamilton in 10-15 minute segments interviewing religious leader from each tradition.
Date with Destiny: Find the Love You Need
by Joseph W. Walker IIIFind your purpose for living through loving. Finding the love you need will only happen when you discover your true purpose for living. Bishop Joseph Walker's Date with Destiny will help you help you fit your plans into the deeper and richer plan God has for you. Only then will you be able to get your relationships right. Bishop Walker gives you the tools you need to fit the pieces of the relationship puzzle together. He shows how to embrace the concept that God means for all of us to have satisfying relationships. "This book sheds light on the power of purpose in relationships for couples. Why does God bring us together? Is there a purpose bigger than us? To these questions, I would argue, YES! When two people understand their purpose in life, it becomes a qualifier for healthy relationships. God merges their individual purposes so that they compliment, not compete with each other." from the book
Jesus Apprentice: Doing What Jesus Did
by Jeff KirbyWhen Jesus taught the disciples, his message was simple and clear. In this illuminating study, Jeff Kirby sweeps aside the clutter of our daily lives and takes us to the heart of Jesus’s message. With Jesus as our teacher and mentor, we explore Christian belief through Christian action, following in the footsteps of our Lord. Jesus’s message is explored in four chapters:1. The Day I Met Jesus2. Announcing Good News 3. The Ministry of Healing 4. Praying for Self and Others
The Evangelistic Love of God & Neighbor: A Theology of Witness & Discipleship
by Scott J. JonesThere are, it seems, as many definitions of the term "evangelism" as there are people doing the defining. For some, it means proclaiming the gospel to those who have not heard it. To others, it means making disciples of Jesus Christ. To others, it means working for the transformation of the world into the kingdom of God. For still others, it has principally to do with building vibrant, healthy congregations. Underlying this confusion is a fundamental inability to locate the practice of evangelism within one's overall theological convictions. We will never understand the part that proclamation, disciple making, kingdom building, and church growth play in evangelism until we first ask a more important question: What does evangelism have to do with who God is? What is it we know about God that makes evangelism a central part of what it means to be Christian? In this comprehensive theology of evangelism, Scott J. Jones proposes to ground the practice of evangelism in an understanding of God's love for the world, specifically as seen in the incarnation of God in Christ. In Jesus, God took on all of what it means to be human. Because of this, evangelism must be a ministry to the whole person. The typical distinctions between soul-winning, social action, and church growth evaporate; individual conversion and acts of mercy are part of the same ministry of bringing persons more fully into the reign of a loving God.
Top 10 United Methodist Beliefs
by Don AdamsThere can be no doubt about what Jesus thought was "the main thing," the Great Commandments to love God with our heart, soul, and mind and to love neighbor as yourself.What were the non-negotiables for the founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley? Wesley’s first priority was to grow Christian disciples who loved God and neighbor with a holy love that keeps those Commandments.Using John Wesley as guide, Top 10 United Methodist Beliefs describes the 10 most important United Methodist beliefs, so that we are equipped for every good work. It also describes how a passionate Wesley can still inspire us to travel the road to perfection using these basic beliefs as signposts, not hitching posts, so that we can more fully follow Jesus.But discipleship can be arduous and God’s grace is not cheap. We must be prepared to walk and walk and not just talk. The Christian life is action packed with surprises at every turn. "Are you able?" as the old hymn asks. Yes, Lord, we are able through the power and love of God to be accountable to Jesus and each other. Each chapter includes study questions suitable for personal reflection and group conversation.
Holding Faith: A Practical Introduction to Christian Doctrine
by Cynthia L. RigbyMartin Luther wrote: "Faith takes hold of Christ and has Him present, enclosing Him as a ring encloses a gem." We hold faith as we seek to know Christ better, exploring Christian doctrines and deepening our understanding of their relevance to our day-to-day lives. Faith holds us as we respond to Christ’s calling, negotiate life’s challenges, and join in the work of bringing in God’s kingdom.This introduction to Christian theology shows how various understandings of particular doctrines play out in relation to the way we live our lives. It explores the content of core Christian doctrines and celebrates the "so what?" of each. Using theological literature and Scripture, but also current events, sociology, fiction, and movies, Rigby shows that theology is key to how we come to understand and negotiate our world. Holding Faith contends that some approaches to Christian doctrine are preferable to others, making persuasive arguments for creative ways of believing that can enliven our lives, and the life of the world. Theology has relevance because it can stymie or transform. How will we hold our faith?"Cynthia Rigby has written an accessible and lucid book of theological reflection for today’s believers, seekers, and doubters. This is no small feat. The book succeeds in the daunting challenges of presenting Christian theology with clarity and completeness, with commitment and generosity. It is an admirable text for theology students, pastors, and all those interested in understanding more deeply their faith and life."Leanne Van Dyk, President and Professor of Theology, Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, GA"This is an extraordinary book. Cynthia Rigby is a Reformed theologian, a minister, and a teacher. All of these gifts are evident in Holding Faith, as Rigby offers an eloquent introduction to Christian theology that is academically rich, pastorally sensitive, and profoundly accessible. She does not make theology accessible by watering it down, but rather by explaining it with compelling clarity. Holding Faith is perfect for seminarians, pastors, church groups, and curious souls; for those who are new to Christianity and those who have been studying and living Christian faith their entire lives. It will be an enormous blessing to those who teach theology and those who preach the gospel."Shannon Craigo-Snell, Professor of Theology, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY"Cindy Rigby's is a timely, necessary, and accessible voice in theological discourse, not only for those who together comprise Christendom but also for those who are curious enough about what Christian doctrines offer by way of challenge, critique, and comfort in our increasingly distracted, fractious world. Holding Faith is a prophetic, priestly, and pastoral defense of a faith tradition that historically contributed to this oppressive state of affairs - yet undoubtedly remains rife with redemptive possibility - for individuals, communities, nations, the cosmos. In its pages, Rigby provides church folks, people of other faiths, seminarians, and inquisitive "nones" with a "thoughtful place" to search out our private and corporate relationships to the God whom the doctrines signify, however imperfectly." JoAnne Marie Terrell, Associate Professor of Theology, Ethics, and the Arts, Chicago Theological Seminary"For those of us who teach theology, it’s rare to find a text that is accessible to those with no previous exposure to theology while also introducing readers in deep and expansive ways to major doctrinal teachings. But Rigby has managed to accomplish both here. This is a profoundly personal and invitational approach to thinking theologically in ways that demonstrate the relevance of ancient teachings for our world today. And it is also a serious engagement with the biblical text, a vast array of historical and contemporary theological voices, poetry, literature, film, and more—this introduction to theology will empower readers to hold onto faith in new and exciting ways."Deanna A. Thompson, Professor of
More Welcome Speeches: Responses for All Occasions
by Abingdon PressA handy, inexpensive resource, More Welcome Speeches can be used by persons frequently or rarely asked to make welcome speeches. Sample speeches and responses are included which can also be used as a prototype for creating a welcome speech.More Welcome Speeches provides a quality resource for laypersons in the church. This volume will appeal especially to members of African American churches.In the African American community, welcoming speeches are important part of each program and service.)More Welcome Speeches:- Includes poetry, prayers, recitations, tributes, and installation services- Offers appropriate Scripture verses for special days- Provide samples speeches and responses that help the user create his or her own personal talks- Addresses many different occasions
The Path of Compassion: Living with Heart, Soul, and Mind
by Ronald J. GreerWritten by a seasoned pastoral counselor, The Path of Compassion explores engaging our heartfelt empathy effectively into an attitude of love and acts of kindness. The books helps persons of faith to learn the dynamics of compassion as they grow into their deepest and most caring selves. It is based on the foundational truths of the scriptures to love God "with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" – and to love "your neighbor as yourself." In three sections, Greer explores the loving compassion of the heart, soul, and mind. The Path of Compassion delves into how we mature into ever-deepening levels of grace, making us more available with spiritual and emotional intimacy.
A Doubter's Guide to the Bible
by Terry GilesIs the Bible still an authoritative guide? Television documentaries regularly explore the "mysteries of the Bible" and question whether its stories can be supported by historical facts. A multitude of people claim the Bible's authority for their own, often competing, agendas. And for many, the church has lost credibility in light of various scandals and failures. Is it any wonder, then, that a growing number of folks doubt whether the Bible is a legitimate source of religious authority, much less the word of God? In A Doubter's Guide to the Bible, Terry Giles asks the hard questions that skeptics have about the Bible. Affirming the legitimacy of doubt in light of such questions, Giles invites us to walk with him as he explores issues such as the Bible's origins, violence in the Bible and in the modern world, and the degree to which the Bible has been used as propaganda to justify particular ends. Never ignoring the doubts that may still remain, Giles suggests that the Bible's power arises from its ability to open up a space where we can meet God, who confronts us amidst all the messiness of our humanity. Whether we've never considered these questions before--and especially if we have--A Doubter's Guide to the Bible is an essential companion on our spiritual journey.
Groove: The Basics Leader Guide (Groove)
by Michael AdkinsToday’s faith and biblical illiteracy in general and among those who attend church and claim to be Christian is staggering. Some alarmists are claiming that the Christian faith is in danger of becoming extinct. We can no longer rely on culture to support the passing on of faith in Jesus Christ to the coming generations. The Basics study is not a quick fix to this situation. It is a handcrafted tool that when used by compassionate, caring, and committed adults, will ignite their imagination for God, the Scripture, the faith community, and living a transformed life.The Basics will likely raise more questions than it answers, and that’s intentional. Don’t feel the need to make sure all the loose ends are tied up at the conclusion of your youth gathering. Allow your teens the opportunity to leave with ideas and truths on which to reflect and wrestle as they use the daily devotionals provided in the Groove: The Basics Student Journal.The Groove Bible study series invites teens to learn the essentials of their faith, own their story, and engage the world in serving Jesus. Each topical study consists of four weekly sessions that are easy to lead and relate to life issues teens face. With up to 48 weeks available, Groove is great for Sunday and mid-week gatherings for both large and small groups as well as retreats. The leader guide contains everything needed to lead teens through a Groove study, including teaching outlines, leader notes, Bible background, reflections, and parent communication.
The Gift of the Nutcracker Leader Guide (The Gift of the Nutcracker)
by Matt RawleThe Nutcracker is a delightful and whimsical Christmas classic that children and adults look forward to every year. First performed in 1892, the music, dance, and story of this classic hold a special place in our cultural Christmas celebrations.Matt Rawle, author of The Redemption of Scrooge, explores the story to help us understand God’s greatest gift of the Christ child, and the kingdom he came to establish.The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the four-week study, including session plans and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Moses Leader Guide: In the Footsteps of the Reluctant Prophet (Moses Series)
by Adam HamiltonRetrace the life of Moses from his modest birth and rescue as a baby to the courts of Pharaoh, from herding flocks in Midian to leading his people out of Egypt.Join Adam Hamilton as he travels from Egypt to Mt. Sinai, the Nile, the Red Sea and the wilderness exploring the sites of Moses' life. Using historical information, archaeological data, and biblical text, Hamilton guides us in the footsteps of this reluctant prophet who grew in his relationship with God and by the end of life had successfully fulfilled the role he was given.Turn your own reluctance into boldness as you examine the significant challenges facing Moses and how God shaped his character and life in powerful ways.The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the six-week study, including session plans and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Immersion Bible Studies: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah
by Bruce G. EpperlyJourney inside the pages of Scripture to meet a personal God who enters individual lives and begins a creative work from the inside out. Shaped with the individual in mind, Immersion encourages simultaneous engagement both with the Word of God and with the God of the Word to become a new creation in Christ. Immersion, inspired by a fresh translation—the Common English Bible—stands firmly on Scripture and helps readers explore the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs of their personal faith. More importantly, they’ll be able to discover God’s revelation through readings and reflections. Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah has eight sessions.
Sent Leader Guide: Delivering the Gift of Hope at Christmas (Sent Advent series)
by Jorge Acevedo Jacob Armstrong Lanecia Rouse Rachel Billups Justin LaRosaAs you sent me into the world, so I have sent them . . . —John 17:18 God sent Christ at Christmas. In turn, Christ sends us into the world to be his hands and feet, head and heart. Dynamic pastor Jorge Acevedo leads us on a 5-week Advent journey to discover how, where, and why we are sent. Joining him on the journey are four young clergy including Jacob Armstrong, Rachel Billups, Justin LaRosa, and Lanecia Rouse, who challenge us through story, art, and Bible study. This 64-page Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the study program. Includes session plans and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options. This guide centers around the book, the videos, and Scripture.
Inked: Choosing God's Mark to Transform Your Life
by Janet E. Kusiak Kim GoadA tattoo can tell a lot about a person. Some reflect a rebellious season, like the demons that cover Josh Hamilton of the Texas Rangers. Some express religious ties, like actor Mark Wahlberg’s once tattooed rosary. Some are symbols of love and loyalty; Some serve as remembrances, like rapper Lil Wayne’s teardrops, representing deaths of loved ones. Inked by Janet E. Kusiak and Kimberly D. Goad uses the language of tattoos to explore the question: what has marked your life? Is it a deep well of pain? Is it emotional baggage? Is it depression? In spite of events that are so deeply etched into our hearts, we have the power to change the marks that life makes on us.An estimated quarter of Americans ages 18-50 have a tattoo. What better way to show how one of the most polarizing of cultural icons can, in fact, be a metaphor for what people have in common? Using stories and slang from tattoo culture, the authors look at the new way Christ desires that we be inked by Him, as the authors explore the marks that have been made on our hearts.