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The Last Supper on the Moon Study Guide plus Streaming Video: The Ocean of Space, the Mystery of Grace, and the Life Jesus Died for You to Have
by Levi LuskoThis Study Guide includes:Individual access to five streaming video sessionsDiscussion and reflection questions with video notesPersonal study between sessionsLeader&’s GuideIn the summer of 1969, Buzz Aldrin had a mission. His goal was to fly 240 million miles from earth and, along with fellow astronaut Neil Armstrong, be the first to walk on the moon. But moments before that historic step, Aldrin poured a specially prepared drink into a cup and partook of a sacred celebration that had first occurred two thousand years before. The lunar Last Supper was full of meaning, just as it had been when Jesus himself took of the elements and acknowledged his calling and purpose. But the significance didn't end there. Today, as we remember the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, followed by his resurrection, we are reminded that what seemed to be an end became the genesis of everything—including the rescue and restoration of anyone who calls on Jesus' name. In this five-session study, bestselling author and pastor Levi Lusko journeys back in time and forward in hope, using the 1969 lunar mission as an analogy of the metamorphosis that was unleashed by the man from Galilee. Along the way, he uncovers the remarkable "seven statements" that Jesus made from the cross—words that provide us everything we need in the chaos of our world to conquer judgment, persecution, anxiety, and pain.Designed for use with The Last Supper on the Moon Video Study (sold separately).
Wild at Heart Field Guide Revised Edition: Discovering the Secret of a Man’s Soul
by John EldredgeIn Wild at Heart, bestselling author John Eldredge thrust a generation of men, young and old, toward a journey to recover true masculinity?the soul of a man as God designed him. He reminded men they needed adventure in their lives—in their work, in their love, and their spiritual lives—and showed how God designed them to be dangerous. Sadly, most men today have abandoned these dreams and desires—aided by a Christianity that feels like nothing more than pressure to be a "nice guy." It is no wonder that many men avoid church, and those who go are often passive and bored to death.The Wild at Heart Field Manual, which corresponds chapter-by-chapter with the book, helps men understand how God wants to heal these deep wounds from earlier years that take away their confidence and, in some case, their masculinity. Men will discover that deep within their heart is a longing for a battle to fight, an adventure to live, and a beauty to rescue—because that is how God created them. It is time for the church to reclaim these wounded warriors. It is time to give men permission to be what God designed them to be—dangerous, passionate, alive, and free!Packed with new information and insights, the Wild at Heart Field Manual guides men along "the road less traveled." Filled with probing questions, creative exercises, and space to record personal field notes, this companion volume is designed to transition men from reading about the wild heart to living from it.
Captivating Guided Journal Revised Edition: Exploring the Treasures of Your Heart and Soul
by John Eldredge Stasi EldredgeEvery woman was once a little girl. And every little girl holds in her heart her most precious dreams. She longs to be swept up into a romance, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, to be the beauty of the story. Those desires are far more than child's play. They are the secret to the feminine heart.And yet, how many women ever find that life? As the years pass by, the heart of a woman gets pushed aside, wounded, buried. She finds no romance except in novels, no adventure except on television, and she doubts very much that she will ever be the Beauty in any tale.Most women think they have to settle for a life of efficiency and duty, striving to be the women they "ought" to be but often feeling they have failed. Sadly, too many messages for Christian women add to the pressure. "Do these ten things, and you will be a godly woman." The effect has not been good on the feminine soul. But her heart is still there. Sometimes when she watches a movie, sometimes in the wee hours of the night, her heart begins to speak again. A thirst rises within her to find the life she was meant to live, the life she dreamed of as a little girl.The message of Captivating is that your heart matters more than anything else in all creation. The desires you had as a little girl and the longings you still feel are telling you of the life God created you to live. He offers to come now, as the Hero of your story—to rescue your heart and release you to live as a fully alive and feminine woman. A woman who is truly captivating.
Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple
by Scot McKnight Cody MatchettThe biblical Book of Revelation frustrates and fascinates many people with its imagery and apocalyptic tone. Most popular interpretations of the book rely on a perspective known as dispensationalism, popularized by the Scofield Bible and more recently the Left Behind series of novels. Yet there are many problems with this popular way of reading Revelation, and until now, few alternatives have been available that were easy to understand.In Revelation for the Rest of Us, Scot McKnight with Cody Matchett explore the timeless message of Revelation and how it speaks to us today with a courageous challenge to be faithful witnesses to Jesus while standing against the ever-present reality of worldly authorities. The writer, John, stimulates the imagination to see the world differently, through the eyes of God, presenting a "divine politic" that subverts the anti-god patterns of governments, empires, and those in power.McKnight addresses the popular misconceptions about the book, explaining what John means in his use of the images of dragons, lambs, and beasts, and how the symbolism of Revelation speaks powerfully to the present day--though not in the way most people think. Drawing from the latest scholarship, they present an understanding of Revelation for anyone interested in deepening their personal study of the Bible as well as preachers looking to communicate this timeless message today.McKnight offers in this book a discipleship manual for discerning the immoralities of political powers and how the church can be both an agent of resistance and transformation.John designed his Book of Revelation to disciple readers into dissidents of the ways of the world and empire. John describes that empire with the term "Babylon." Babylon is a timeless image of empire, militarism, economic exploitation, injustice, and oppression. The Book of Revelation disciples Christians through worship and the courageous challenge of faithful, or allegiant, witness to the slaughtered-Lamb. John's dissident disciples can discern the presence of "Babylon" in our world and learn to speak up, speak out, and walk in the way of the Lamb. He disciples us by stimulating our imaginations to see the world and "Babylon" through the eyes of God, and in so doing John presents a "divine politic," a view of government and power that subverts the anti-god patterns of "Babylon" today.
The Zondervan 2023 Pastor's Annual: An Idea and Resource Book
by T. T. CrabtreeCountless preachers have turned to the Zondervan Pastor's Annual to save them time in sermon and service preparation. This tried-and-true resource makes your demanding job as a pastor a lot easier. Use its contents as is, or tailor it to fit your unique approach.The Zondervan 2023 Pastor's Annual supplies you with:Morning and evening services for every Sunday of the yearSermon topics and texts fully indexedDefinitive and usable sermon outlinesDevotionals and Bible studies for midweek servicesFresh and applicable illustrationsAppropriate hymn selectionsSpecial-day services for church and civil calendarsMeditations on Lord's Supper observanceWedding ceremonies and themesFuneral messages and ScripturesBasic pastoral ministry helpsMessages for children and young peopleOffertory prayers
Bible Doctrine Workbook: Study Questions and Practical Exercises for Learning the Essential Teachings of the Christian Faith
by Brianna Smith Erik Thoennes Wayne A. GrudemA WORKBOOK to Help You Explore and Reflect on Life's Most Important Theological Questions.How do we know the Bible is God's Word? What is sin and where did it come from? How is Jesus fully God and fully man? What are spiritual gifts? When and how will Christ return?If you've asked questions like these, then systematic theology is no abstract term. It's an approach to finding answers every Christian needs to know. The Bible Doctrine WORKBOOK accompanies Wayne Grudem's highly regarded Bible Doctrine. Following the textbook's structure, the WORKBOOK features review material and exercises for every chapter, and all major areas of Christian doctrine are covered, including:The Word of GodGodHumanityChrist and the Holy SpiritThe Application of RedemptionThe ChurchThe FutureThe WORKBOOK maintains the clear writing, friendly tone, and frequent applications to life found in the textbook. Students will benefit from this hands-on engagement with the important teachings in Bible Doctrine.
Christian Beliefs Study Guide: Review and Reflection Exercises on Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know
by Wayne A. GrudemThis STUDY GUIDE is a companion resource to Wayne Grudem's Christian Beliefs, revised edition. Not every Christian needs to go to seminary, but there are certain teachings of the Bible that every Christian should know. Whether you're a relatively new believer in Jesus or a mature Christian looking for a better understanding of basics of the faith, the Christian Beliefs Study Guide can help you reflect on and deeply internalize the core teachings of Christianity, when used in conjunction with Christian Beliefs, revised edition (sold separately).This STUDY GUIDE will help you think through important topics like:The Bible and its authority for our livesThe characteristics of GodThe importance of prayerAngels and the reality of spiritual warfareWhat it means that we are created in the image of GodWhat God has done for us in ChristThe purpose of the churchWhat happens when Christ returnsThe biblical understanding of heavenAnd much moreChapter by chapter, this STUDY GUIDE will lead you to examine and reflect on Christian Beliefs, revised edition (sold separately), by providing:Summary: A short summary of the chapter to help remind readers what they read.Key terms: Definitions of important terminology introduced in the chapter.Key quotes: Selection of one or two key quotes from the chapter.Central Scripture Passage: An important biblical passage related to the chapter for reflection or memorization.Content Questions: Questions that reflect on the theological content of the chapter.Practical Application Questions: Questions that help tie the theological content of the chapter to real-life situations.For Further Reading: Lists where to find more information on theological topics in Systematic Theology, second edition, by Wayne Grudem so readers know where to go for a deeper dive into specific subjects they want to know more about.The Christian Beliefs Study Guide is the ideal resource for every Christian who wants a solid foundation for understanding the most basic and essential teachings of the Bible.
You Were Made for This Moment: How the Story of Esther Inspires Us to Step Up and Stand Out for God
by Max LucadoJoin Max Lucado on a journey through the book of Esther as he reminds us that God need not be loud to be strong, he need not cast a shadow to be present...and he is active even when he appears distant.This study was born in a hard season—a pandemic that locked down the world. Church doors closed. Students were stuck at home. Masks hid smiles. And as if this weren't enough, the ancient sin of racism and hatred seems to be trying to undo us. Many of us are left wondering if this season will ever pass.To all these things, God has a six-letter word of encouragement: E-S-T-H-E-R. The book that bears her name was written to be read in hard seasons. It was crafted for those who feel outnumbered by foes, outmaneuvered by fate, and outdone by fear.In the You Were Made for This Moment five-session video Bible study (streaming included), pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado presents the story of Esther in all its drama, urgency, and hope.This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including:The study guide itself--with discussion and personal reflection questions, video notes, and a leader's guide.An individual access code to stream all five video sessions online (you don't need to buy a DVD!).Esther's is a story that reaches out of the past to our present circumstances with a singular message: God is present, and he will act. It's a story that demands from us a singular response: what will we do when he does? Sessions and video run times:Cozy in the Culture - Esther 1:1–2:18 (17:30)A Moment of Decision - Esther 2:19–4:14 (17:00)Heaven Set in Motion - Esther 4:15–6:14 (16:30)The God of Great Turnarounds - Esther 7:1–8:17 (17:30)Remembering God's Faithfulness - Esther 9:1–10:3 (16:00)Streaming video access code included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2027. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.
Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church
by Michael J KrugerAre churches looking for the wrong kind of leaders? The last decade has witnessed a rising number of churches wrecked by spiritual abuse--harsh, heavy-handed, domineering behavior from those in a position of spiritual authority. And high-profile cases are only a small portion of this widespread problem. Behind the scenes are many more cases of spiritual abuse that we will never hear about. Victims suffer in silence, not knowing where to turn.Of course, most pastors and leaders are godly, wonderful people who don't abuse their sheep. They shepherd their flocks gently and patiently. But we can't ignore the growing number who do not. We have tolerated and even celebrated the kind of leaders Jesus warned us against.We need gentle shepherds now more than ever, and in Bully Pulpit, seminary president and biblical scholar Michael J. Kruger offers a unique perspective for both church leaders and church members on the problem of spiritual abuse, how to spot it, and how to handle it in the church."Every Christian from pulpit to pew needs to read this wise and timely work."- Karen Swallow Prior"Both urgent and timely."- Sam Storms"Thoughtful, wise, and biblical."- Mark Vroegop
Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God
by Tim ChalliesAn honest look at grief and fears, faith and hope. Combining personal narrative, sound theology, and beautiful writing, this is a book for anyone who has loved and lost.On November 3, 2020, Tim and Aileen Challies received the shocking news that their son Nick had died. A twenty-year-old student at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, he had been participating in a school activity with his fiancée, sister, and friends, when he fell unconscious and collapsed to the ground.Neither students nor a passing doctor nor paramedics were able to revive him. His parents received the news at their home in Toronto and immediately departed for Louisville to be together as a family. While on the plane, Tim, an author and blogger, began to process his loss through writing. In Seasons of Sorrow, Tim shares real-time reflections from the first year of grief—through the seasons from fall to summer—introducing readers to what he describes as the &“ministry of sorrow.&”Seasons of Sorrow will benefit both those that are working through sorrow or those comforting others:• See how God is sovereign over loss and that he is good in loss • Discover how you can pass through times of grief while keeping your faith • Learn how biblical doctrine can work itself out even in life&’s most difficult situations• Understand how it is possible to love God more after loss than you loved him before
Winning the War in Your Mind Workbook: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life
by Craig GroeschelAre your thoughts out of control—just like your life? Do you long to break free from the spiral of destructive thinking? If so, God's truth can become your battle plan to win the war in your mind!In this twelve-lesson workbook, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Craig Groeschel reveals that our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts. What we think shapes who we are. Both the Bible and modern science provide evidence that this is true.For example, in Philippians 4:8–9, the apostle Paul writes, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." In these three sentences, Paul moves from thought ("think about such things") to action ("put it into practice") to experience ("the God of peace will be with you").In recent years, an entire discipline of modern psychology has developed called cognitive behavioral therapy. This breakthrough teaching reveals that many problems, from eating disorders to relational challenges, addictions, and even some forms of depression and anxiety, are rooted in faulty and negative patterns of thinking. Treating those problems begins with changing that thinking. When the Bible and modern psychology say the same thing, we should all pay attention!In this workbook, Craig goes deeper into the principles outlined in his book to reveal the strategies he has discovered will change your mind and your life for the long-term. Each lesson includes biblical exploration, reflection and application questions, and practical exercises to help you determine any destructive thought patterns that have and eliminate them from your life.God has something better for your life than your old ways of thinking. It's time to change your mind so God can change your life.
God and Race Study Guide plus Streaming Video: A Guide for Moving Beyond Black Fists and White Knuckles
by John Siebeling Wayne FrancisThis Study Guide includes:Individual access to 5 streaming video sessionsDiscussion and reflection questions with video notesPersonal study between sessionsLeader&’s GuideA recent Pew Research study discovered that 6 out of 10 adults in America believe racial tension is a major problem in this country—and one that is only growing worse. Today, people across the nation are dealing with tensions between blacks and whites, and often this tension breaks out into violence. People are talking about the issue; but sadly, the church has been reluctant to engage in the discussion.In God and Race, pastors Wayne Francis and John Siebling seek to provide a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to start to dialogue about this important issue. Wayne Francis, lead pastor of The Life Church in New York, speaks to the "Black Fist" part, showing how the racism that blacks have faced have led to many solidarity movements that have served to increase racial tensions in our country. John Siebling, lead pastor of The Life Church in Memphis, Tennessee, speaks to the "White Knuckles" part, showing how many whites today are "white-knuckling" it to try and hold on to old (and wrong) ways of thinking . . . or are just tensing up when approached with the issue and hoping that it will just go away.In this study, Wayne and John show how neither black fists or white knuckles are the answer to the problem, but that what is needed are open hands, open hearts, and open minds. They do this by discussing seven key statements that they believe the church needs to acknowledge today:Racism is a problemThe gospel is the solutionIt's more than just a spiritual problemIt's complicatedWhite people must understand and acknowledge the sin of slavery and mistreatment of black peopleBlack people in turn have to forgive white people of previous and present injustices, while also not harboring hatred and racism toward white peopleUnless we make a solid intentional choice to connect, understand, reach, and love one another, we will remain dividedIn the Gospels, we see how the crowds came to Jesus because he talked about real issues and was not afraid to engage in the important issues of his day. In the church of today, we need to be doing the same, for it is only by recognizing, addressing, and openly dialoguing about the racial tension in America that we can together begin to work toward real solutions. Wayne and John have no presumption in this series that they are going to solve the issue. Rather, their goal is to have churches follow their example and start the conversion in their congregations.
The Hard Good Study Guide plus Streaming Video: Showing Up When You Want to Shut Down
by Lisa WhittleThe Hard Good shows why the divine road that leads to God's perfect plan for our lives is often paved with difficulties.This Study Guide includes:Individual access to 6 streaming video sessionsDiscussion and reflection questions with video notesPersonal study between sessionsLeader&’s GuideAt our very core is the desire to be God's woman or man—faithful, having fulfilled the potential God created in us. To reach that point, sometimes we have to endure hard things, things God has designed for good, to supernaturally shape us into the people he wants us to be. When we choose to accept the "hard good," we discover our life's purpose, and he promises to give us the joy and passion as our deepest longing is fulfilled.The hard good is a powerful path to growth, as you learn toaccept things you wish were differentapologize and forgive firstcome clean (repentance)give up the now for the beststay in the journeycheer for someone who has what you wantopen your heart, even when it's been hurttell yourself noThe Hard Good Study Guide is a six-session video Bible study based in 1 Samuel. It will help you discover a practical roadmap to help you find God's true purpose for your life—a study in becoming the person God uniquely created you to be. With counsel from Scripture, which speaks into relevant and universal issues that touch each one of us, The Hard Good inspires and motivates you to discover the growth you have long desired as you search for your purpose in God's perfect plan.
The Book of Romans (The Smart Guide to the Bible Series)
by Gib MartinHow can we stand firm in our beliefs in a culture that screams, "It's all relative."?Inform and protect yourself by understanding Christianity's greatest truths. The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Romans breaks difficult concepts into easy-to-comprehend bites of knowledge. You'll go verse by verse through the Apostle Paul's overview of theology and reap the eternal rewards of truly knowing-and applying-the cornerstones of the Christian faith.The Smart Guide to the Bible series contains user-friendly guides for everyday Bible readers, designed to faithfully lead you through the Bible using an easy-to-understand approach.Every page contains handy features or learning aids like these:cross-references to other Scripturesbrief commentaries from expertspoints to ponderthe big picture of how passages fit with the entire Biblepractical tips for applying biblical truths to lifesimple definitions of key words and conceptsinteresting maps, charts, and illustrationswrap-ups of each biblical passagestudy questionsWhether you're new to the Bible, a long-time student of Scripture, or somewhere in between, you'll appreciate the many ways The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Romans goes far beyond your typical Bible study tool. The practical, relevant helps on each page lead you to get the most out of God's word.
Not in It to Win It: Why Choosing Sides Sidelines The Church
by Andy StanleyIs it possible to disagree politically and love unconditionally? The reaction of evangelicals to political and cultural shifts in recent years revealed what they value most. Lurking beneath our Bible-laced rhetoric, faith claims, books, and sermons is a relentless drive to WIN!But the church is not here to win. By every human measure, our Savior lost. On purpose. With a purpose. And we are his body. We are not in it to win anything. We are in it for something else entirely. That something else is what this book is about.You'll discover:How to take a stand the right way. You'll learn how to make your case with a posture of humility and understanding, rather than being fueled by the fear of losing something.How to view politics through the lens of faith. Learn curiously, listen intentionally, and love unconditionally.How the life of Jesus and his teaching applies to modern-day challenges in a fresh way. The "biblical" stand may not be what we've been taught.Jesus never asked his followers to agree on everything. But he did call his followers to obey a new command: to love others in the same way he has loved us. Instead of asserting our rights or fighting for power, we need to begin asking ourselves: what does love require of me?
Church History in Plain Language Workbook
by Bruce Shelley Stacey Shelley LingleThis workbook is designed to accompany the fifth edition of Bruce Shelley's Church History in Plain Language.Following the textbook's structure, this workbook offers discussion questions for group and personal reflection, assessments, activities, and resources for further study, all of which reinforce the textbook's teaching and support the students' learning experience.The newest edition of Bruce Shelley's Church History in Plain Language brings the story of global Christianity into the twenty-first century. In this fifth edition, Marshall Shelley assembled a team of historians, historical theologians, and editors to revise and update his father's classic text. As a result, it now includes important stories of the development of Christianity in Asia, India, and Africa, both in the early church as well as in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. It also highlights the stories of women and non-Europeans who significantly influenced the development of Christianity but whose contributions are often overlooked in overviews of church history.Covering recent events, this book also:Details the rapid growth of Christianity in the southern hemisphereExamines the influence of technology on the spread of the gospelDiscusses how Christianity intersects with other religions in countries all over the worldTogether with this workbook companion, the new edition of Church History in Plain Language provides an easy-to-read guide to global Christianity and promises to set a new standard for readable church history.
Organic Disciples Study Guide: Seven Ways to Grow Spiritually and Naturally Share Jesus
by Kevin G. Harney Sherry HarneyCould sharing your faith be the secret to unlocking your spiritual growth?For many followers of Jesus, spiritual growth involves a series of spiritual practices that promise to deepen our connection with God and train us in the ways of Jesus. Unfortunately, these practices are often disconnected from the mission and purposes of God in reaching a lost world with the gospel message. But what if the secret to unlocking spiritual growth was as simple as infusing our spiritual practices with an outward focus?In the Organic Disciples Study Guide, Kevin and Sherry Harney walk ordinary followers of Jesus through seven markers of spiritual maturity, showing how simple shifts in our prayers, Bible reading, giving, and other practices can connect us with God's work of reaching people with his love. Taking a holistic approach that unites evangelism and discipleship, Kevin and Sherry explain how God's plan for our own spiritual growth is intimately connected to his purposes for the church, unleashing God's power in our lives as we engage God's mission to the world.True spiritual growth and maturity will always lead believers outward to engage the world with the good news and truth of Jesus. And in a surprising twist, our own spiritual growth will often remain stunted and limited until we take the step of joining God in his mission to love others. This book will help you see how Jesus modelled a lifestyle of loving others, overcome the common roadblocks and false narratives that stand in the way of spiritual maturity, and design a personal pathway of growth to be more like Jesus in character and mission.Used together with the Organic Disciples book and the free video study and online assessment available at OrganicOutreach.com, churches and individuals can better identify where they are in their growth journey and what the next steps are in becoming more like Jesus.
Divine Action in Hebrews: And the Ongoing Priesthood of Jesus (The Scripture Collective Series)
by ZondervanRecent years have seen renewed interest in divine action, but much of the literature tends to focus on the science-theology discussion. Resulting from multi-year work of the Scripture and Doctrine Seminar, part of KLC's Scripture Collective, this book attends to the portrayal of divine action in one major biblical text, namely Hebrews. In the New Testament, Hebrews is on par with Romans in terms of importance but has too often been overlooked. Contributors to this volume explore the many different ways in which divine action is foregrounded and portrayed in Hebrews. As its name indicates, Hebrews overflows with Old Testament intertextuality, which also makes it a fertile ground for analysis of divine action stretching back into the Old Testament and opening out into different parts of the NT. The essays in this volume:rigorously work the interface of theology and exegesis, all related to Hebrews;offer an overview of the current state of discussion of divine action and the importance of exploring divine action in specific biblical texts, with special reference to William Abraham's recent 4 volume work with OUP;provide an overview of the reception history of Hebrews in theologies of divine action;explore how this has this played out in historical theology and what a retrieval of Hebrews for a theology of divine action might mean today;explore the relationship between the doctrine of God and divine action in Hebrews, including an engagement with classical theism;provocatively explore divine action in the OT, creation, and eschatology in Hebrews;explore the major theme in Hebrews of divine action through the ongoing priesthood of Jesus as portrayed in Hebrews;relate this all to preaching Hebrews today and to spiritual formation.The book's conclusion reflects on the primary action of God speaking in Hebrews.
Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges
by Gregory KouklStreet Smarts by Gregory Koukl helps Christians better engage in productive conversations with those who challenge their convictions on a variety of issues. A follow-up to Koukl's best-selling Tactics, this book focuses on revealing the fundamental flaws in common, current challenges to Christian beliefs and values. It then provides individual strategies to exploit those shortcomings by offering model questions and sample dialogues to help guide believers in genial, yet persuasive, conversations.Koukl begins by explaining the important difference in evangelism between a harvest approach (reaping) and a gardening approach (sowing). He then provides an overview of the tactical game plan he uses to have fruitful "gardening" conversations with those who are not yet Christians. Subsequent chapters tackle specific areas of challenge that Christians frequently face in discussions "on the street," as it were--in those conversations with friends, family, or critics that believers often avoid because they feel out of their element, vulnerable, or exposed.With the specific challenges he addresses, Koukl shows precisely how and why each falters. instructing the reader in a lucid, well-organized, and easy-to-follow fashion. He then provides a specific set of questions--the same questions Koukl uses in his own encounters--that are embedded in sample mini-dialogues the Christian can use to exploit those flaws in an amicable, yet incisive, way.Some questions are used to get the discussion moving forward in a disarming fashion. Others are aimed more directly at the flaws or liabilities of the typical challenges people raise. Questions encourage challengers to think more carefully about their objections or consider problems with their own views that they may not have considered or even have been aware of.Street Smarts equips Christians to handle tough challenges in a straightforward and user-friendly way. It provides the practical tools they need to keep them in the driver's seat of otherwise difficult and discomfiting conversations. It enables them to stand up for Christ in a safe, genial, yet effective way.
Street Smarts Study Guide: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges
by Gregory KouklBuilding on Street Smarts, this study guide by Gregory Koukl will take you deeper, teaching you the strategies for productive conversations with those who challenge your convictions on a variety of issues. The focus is on revealing the fundamental flaws in common, current challenges to Christian beliefs and values. It then provides individual strategies to exploit those shortcomings by offering model questions and sample dialogues to help guide believers in genial, yet persuasive, conversations. Lessons are coordinated with the available Street Smarts Video Study, and both make an ideal resources for groups use.
A Burning House: Redeeming American Evangelicalism by Examining Its History, Mission, and Message
by Brandon WashingtonDespite the civil rights progress he fought for and saw on the horizon in the 1950s and '60s, Martin Luther King Jr.—increasingly concerned by America's moral vision, admitted—"I've come to believe that we are integrating into a burning house."In A Burning House, Brandon Washington contends that American Evangelicalism is a house ablaze: burning in the destructive fires of discrimination and injustice. The stain of segregation remains prevalent, not only in our national institutions, but also in our churches, and this has long tarnished the witness of Christianity and hampered our progress toward a Christ-like vision of Shalom—peace, justice, and wholeness—in the world. Common doctrine may unite black and white evangelicals, but rifts such as social ethics and cultural influences still separate us.Throughout this challenging but reconciliatory book, Washington gives a historical and theological appraisal of American evangelicalism to understand how we came to be where we are and what our response should be. Instead of calling the movement to become something new, he challenges it to live into what it has always been in Christ and strive for deliberate and sacrificial integration—the unity of believers of all ethnicities.A Burning House is a rallying call to a waning movement whose most public leaders have often turned a blind eye to, or even justified, the sin of racism—a movement whose theology is sometimes compromised by a secular anthropology. This is a call to both white and black evangelicals to better understand our past so that we can better embrace the unifying and comprehensive message of the gospel we preach.
'Twas the Season of Lent: Devotions and Stories for the Lenten and Easter Seasons ('Twas Series)
by Glenys Nellist&‘Twas the Season of Lent is a 40-day devotional and storybook that explores the life, words, and works of Jesus and encourages families to draw closer to God during the Lenten Season. From beloved author Glenys Nellist, this book focused on Jesus&’s mission to the least, the lost, and the lonely, with each story and accompanying prayer prompt encouraging children to try to be more like Jesus and to do what God calls them to.Written in both prose and poetry, this gorgeous picture book shares the true story of the days leading up to Christ&’s death and resurrection. The read-aloud rhymes and stunning illustrations by Elena Selivanova make this a perfect read for the whole family during the Lenten season. With an eye-catching cover decorated in shining foil and embossing, this book is designed to be a treasured tradition for families and church ministries for the Lenten season for years to come.&‘Twas the season of Lent, when for forty whole daysThe people were trying to think of new waysTo be more like Jesus—to love, care, and give,In hopes that they&’d choose the right way to live. &’Twas the Season of Lent:Is written by Glenys Nellist, author of the beloved The Wonder That Is You, and the Snuggle Time and Love Letters from God seriesIs told in the lyrical style of Clement Moore&’s iconic poem—&“&’Twas the Night before Christmas&”Explores what the season of Lent is all about and how we can draw closer to God during this timeFeatures a familiar rhythm and rhyme that children ages 4-8 will loveBrings to life the story of Jesus&’s ministry and the days leading up to his death and resurrection through Elena Selivanova&’s beautiful, rich illustrationsIs the perfect way for adults to share the powerful meaning of the Lenten season with the little ones in their lives leading up to the Easter holiday
What You Do Best: Unleashing the Power of Your Spiritual Gifts, Relational Style, and Life Passion
by Bruce L. BugbeeHave you found fulfillment in life?When you look at a plate, cup, or fork, you realize each has been designed and created for a different purpose. What if you could look into the mind and heart of God and see just how you have been designed and created? If you truly knew you were a "plate, cup, or fork," you would be freed from trying to be someone you are not, and free to live your life with greater faithfulness, fruitfulness, and fulfillment...making God famous!God created you to be fruitful by discovering your God-given design and the role he created for you. What You Do Best equips you to identify and express your unique contribution to this world as an integral part of your relationships, life, and ministry. The biblical principles in these pages can free you to pursue your life's calling with enthusiasm and confidence as you gain a better understanding of who God made you to be. Bruce Bugbee provides proven tools and a conversational approach that will guide you with confidence and competence toward a greater fulfillment of God's will for your life.What You Do Best provides reflection questions for each chapter that help you journal or discuss what you are learning with others, as well as Scripture passages for further study. You'll learn about the importance and use of spiritual gifts and how to identify the gifts God has given to you. You'll discover your unique relational style and uncover your life passion. What You Do Best helps you to closely examine yourself, assess your relationship with God, and reflect on what you need in order to thrive as the person you were created to be. You'll emerge from the process with a greater understanding of God, his purposes, your calling, and your role in this world. Each copy of the book includes access to three online self-assessments that help you to identify your unique spiritual gifts, relational style, and life passion.
Against Liberal Theology: Putting the Brakes on Progressive Christianity
by Roger E. OlsonLiberal Christian theology permeates mainlines denominations and progressive circles of the church to this day. But what is liberal theology? What are progressive Christians progressing toward, and what are they leaving behind?In Against Liberal Theology, professor and theologian Roger E. Olson warns progressive and mainline Christians against passively accepting the ideas of liberal theology without thinking through the consequences. In doing so, he examines the basic beliefs of the Christian faith, the main ideas of liberal theology, the way today's mainline and progressive Christianity relates to classic liberalism, and how classic Christian faith and liberal Christianity connect and contradict. Following in the footsteps of Gresham Machen's now-classic Christianity and Liberalism 100 years ago, Olson worries that liberal Christianity may not be Christianity but a different religion altogether.After examining the origins of liberal theology in the nineteenth century, Olson examines how liberal theology views:Sources of truthThe BibleGodJesus ChristSalvationThe FutureGentle but direct, Olson provides an even-handed assessment and critique of the ideas of liberal theology and worries that liberal Christianity has strayed too far from the classic Christian orthodoxy of the fathers and creeds to be considered "Christian" at all.
The Secret Place of Thunder: Trading Our Need to Be Noticed for a Hidden Life with Christ
by John StarkeWhy do we feel like we are always performing? Where does this impulse come from?As John Starke shows in The Secret Place of Thunder, our modern world has internalized the idea that the markers of having an admirable and successful life are primarily visible. It leads us to believe that a sense of self-worth and identity are metrics to be displayed. The performance of the self has become more important than the reality. We live as if the most important things about us are to be performed before others; that our deepest happiness will come from being who others think we ought to be.But when Jesus says, "Do not practice your righteousness before others," he is leading us to believe that the most important things about us are hidden. How does the Bible lead us to live primarily before God? How does Jesus lead us to wholeness?Jesus teaches us to live, not for the eyes of others or even for ourselves, but in the secret place where our Father in heaven sees and rewards.