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Liar . . . lies . . . the father of lies.Can you hear Satan's whispers? Which of his lies bind you?Robert Don Hughes writes,I know the voice within me well--I've heard it all my life. . . . It is sometimes patient-sounding, sometimes playful, sometimes naughty, sometimes devious, sometimes abusive--sometimes frightening. It seeks always to give me permission to do evil. It prompts me to harm myself in the name of fun. It taunts me, calling me names that hurt me names that have had power over me since my childhood, names that prompt me to lash out , to act in ways that I would really rather not. And it criticizes me--constantly--a never-ending stream of cynical, personally targeted satire that leaves me angry, defensive, and depressed. Oh, I know the voice well. I hear it daily. Do you?Satan did many things to block the writing of this book. He may be telling you that you don't need to read it. If you've heard Satan's whispers, you need this book learn of his lies and find the power to break the lies that bind you!Robert Don Hughes is professor of missions and evangelism at Clear Creek Baptist Bible College in Pineville, Kentucky. He is the author of fourteen books, as well as numerous articles and plays. Robert served as a missionary in Nigeria and Zambia and worked in close relationship with missions directors in the North East and for the North American Mission Board.

IN THIS CRITIQUE OF THE LEGACY OF THE Enlightenment for Christian theology, Colin Gunton focuses on the concepts of truth, freedom, and faith. He argues that in these areas the emphasis of Enlightenment thought on knowledge which is observable and objective has alienated us from understanding or believing in whatever cannot be seen or scientifically deduced, and cut us off from reality, form ourselves, and form God. But the trinitarian structure of Christian belief contains within itself the resources to overcome this alienation and achieve an integrated perspective. Gunton finds in the doctrine of the Trinity--especially in Jesus Christ, in whom the mysterious and divine joined the physical and observable--a way to give validity both to scientific frames of thought and to religious belief.Absorbing and illuminating. . . . [This book] deals in lucid fashion with the most fundamental issues which haunt us as human beings who are the heirs. . . of that movement which those who first participated in it called 'The Enlightenment'. . . . Colin Gunton gives us grounds for. . . the confidence that there can be enlightenment without the alienation and the skepticism which so easily tumbles into nihilism and despair. For this I am grateful.--Lesslie Newbigin from the forwardColin E. Gunton (1941-2003) was Professor of Christian doctrine at King's College London. He authored twelve books including 'The Christian Faith', 'Christ and Creation', and 'The Triune Creator'. He was also Associate Minister of the United Reformed Church at Brentwood in Essex for 28 years

Moral TheologyThis book is a systematic treatment of moral theology from the perspective of liberation theology. It not only surveys the evolution of Catholic moral theology but lays the foundations for a Christian ethic in a world of injustice.In a courageous, balanced, readable way, Moser and Leers examine moral theology--past and present--and explore liberation theology's central ethical principles. They show how moral theology led to dead ends, first by the scholastic morality, and then by the renewed morality of contemporary western Europe. The first, they argued, failed through concentration on the individual as the main subject.To move forward, Moser and Leers propose moving social, political, and community factors to the forefront of moral concern. They find the foundations of this approach first in the covenant of the Old Testament, and in the classic and enduring theme of New Testament spirituality: the following of Christ. They ask, tellingly, how this commitment can be carried out today by asking what sort of society Christ envisaged, and how he faced the powers of his time.A hard-hitting critique form a third world perspective . . . . The authors rightfully challenge the reigning 'idolatries' of power, money, technology, pleasure, and superiority. Pressing beyond Marxism and capitalism, Moser and Leers offer a nuanced and inspiring alternative, shaped around biblically-derived principles of incarnation, praxis, and solidarity. They argue very effectively that although Jesus was no social reformer in the modern sense, his ministry has radical social implications.--Lisa Sowle Cahill, Boston CollegeA powerful attempt to do moral theology from a liberation theology perspective. Moser and Leers integrate the perspective of the poor, contemporary scriptural reflection, and traditional Catholic moral theology in a compelling systematic proposal for a renewed moral theology accessible to all, based on universal participation in, and responsibility for, both church and society, and responsive to the concrete sins besetting our world . . . . Moral Theology is both creatively fresh and in continuity with our moral tradition.--Christine Gudorf, author of Catholic Social Teaching on Liberation ThemesAntonio Moser, a native of Brazil, has lectured for fifteen years in the Franciscan Theological Institute in Petropolis, where he also works with base communities.Bernardino Leers, born in Holland, has worked in Brazil since 1953 where he has taught theology and been engaged in pastoral work among the rural poor.

SEARCHING FOR ABSOLUTES IN A POSTMODERN WORLD. In this postmodern age, truth--especially religious or moral truth--is widely criticized and constantly challenged, yet perhaps more important than ever.It was this realization that led James Emery White to examine the concepts of truth as held by five twentieth -century theologians:- Cornelius Van Til - Millard J. Erickson- Francis A. Schaeffer - Donald G. Bloesch- Carl F. H. HenryWhite's study exhibits a comprehensive knowledge of these writers and their background. Its originality lies in the way that the five thinkers are brought together and subjected to minute inspection. As a secondary theme, White shows how their approaches to the question of truth relate to the question of the inspiration and authority of Scripture . . . I am delighted that this important study is now made available to a wider public. --from the Foreword by Colin Brown,Fuller Theological SeminaryJAMES EMERY WHITE is the president of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, with campuses in South Hamilton (Massachusetts), Boston, Charlotte and Jacksonville. He holds M.Div. and Ph.D. degrees in theology, history and biblical studies. He is the author of twelve books, including Embracing the Mysterious God, Serious Times and The Prayer God Longs For.

The Catholic Church in the United States has always been an immigrant church, from the earliest arrivals of the Spanish and English, to the influx of Irish, Germans, Italians, and other Europeans in the nineteenth century, to the most recent arrivals from the Philippines and Vietnam. Over two centuries countless laymen and laywomen worked with priests and religious to build and support churches and schools, laying the foundation for the Catholic Church in the United States. The wealth of original documents and photographs in Keeping Faith provides as no other source does a thorough and compelling portrait of these immigrants and their impact on the American Catholic institutions and American Catholic experience.A brilliant collection of primary sources. A goldmine of fascinating information for anyone interested in the history of Catholics in the U.S.--Jay P. Dolan, Professor of History, University of Notre DameSkillful selection and explanation of documents provide readers of Keeping Faith an opportunity to consider the words, review the experiences, and study the artistic expressions of immigrants who have been largely overlooked in American Catholic historiography. This view leads to appreciation for the diverse gifts that immigrants from Europe and Asia offer the church and gratitude to those responsible church leaders who support newcomers.-Dolores Liptak, RSM, Catholic Historical and Archival Consultant, West Hartford, ConnecticutJeffrey M. Burns is archivist at Chancery Archives, the Archdiocese of San Francisco, and is adjunct professor of history at four Bay area universities. Ellen Skerrett, editor of At the Crossroads, is an independent scholar specializing in the history of Irish Catholics in Chicago. Writer and historian Joseph M. White is author of The Diocesan Seminary in the United States and is working on the centennial history of the Holy Name Province of the Order of Friars Minor.

When we look at Michelangelo's David, we see a nakedness that expresses physical prowess, self-knowledge, and spiritual discipline. What do we see when we look at Hans Baldung's Eve, the Serpent, and Death or Master Francke's Martyrdom of Saint Barbara? Why should those naked female images symbolize wantonness and shame? How do ideas about nakedness formed at the dawn of Christianity continue to shape today's sexual values? What must women do to take their bodies back?This revolutionary study by Margaret R. Miles, formerly Bussey Professor of Historical Theology at the Harvard Divinity School and author of the acclaimed Images as Insight, sifts through centuries of Christian writing and religious ritual and, above all, Western art to reveal the origins of our attitudes toward women's bodies and their encoded meanings. Broad enough to encompass fourth-century descriptions of Christian baptism and contemporary theories of representation, Carnal Knowing is a brilliant, startling work of scholarship whose implications extend far beyond the academy to the way we live and see.This fascinating book is a searching analysis of the complex cultural meanings of naked male and female bodies in Christian art and literature and in contemporary society.- Emily Martin, author of The Woman in the BodyMargaret R. Miles was Bussey Professor of Historical Theology at the Harvard University Divinity School. She is the author of Augustine on the Body, Desire and Delight, Image as Insight, and Practicing Christianity.

Contents1 Precursors of Origen2 Life and Character of Origen3 Origen's View of Holy Scripture4 Religious Philosophy of Origen5 The Writings of Origen6 Origen's Theology: God and HIs Self-Manifestations7 Origen's Theology: Creation and the Fall8 Origen's Theology: Redemption and Restoration9 Successors of Origen10 Historical Services, General Characteristics, and Distinctive Doctrinal Complexion of the Greek Theology11 Reaction against Origenism12 Subsequent History of OrigenismWilliam Fairweather is the author of 'Among the Mystics,' 'The Background of the Gospels,' 'The Background of the Epistles,' 'The Pre-exilic Prophets,' and 'From the Exile to the Advent.'

The post liberal, cultural-linguistic theology of the Yale School has been one of the most important theological developments in the United States during the latter twentieth century. In this unique book, which combines theological analysis and homiletical reflection,Charles Campbell examines post liberal theology as it is embodied in the work of Hans Frei and develops the implications of this theological position for the theory and practice of preaching. Arguing that the trouble with homiletics today is fundamentally theological, Campbell offers Frei's theological position as a means for enriching the Christian pulpit and renewing the church.Charles Campbell has given us a helpful book on preaching and the best study available of Hans Frei's theology. This is a book that anyone interested in Frei's thought needs to read, and it will lead many preachers who begin it with no interest in Frei to discover how much his way thinking about theology can help them in their task.--William C. Placher, Wabash CollegeThis book maps out an important intersection between the theology of the so-called Yale School and the life of mainstream Protestant churches. Campbell's book offers both an accessible guide to Hans Frei's theology and an approach to narrative preaching that has promise in addressing the challenge of building Christian community in contemporary Protestantism.--Amy Plantinga Pauw, Louisville Presbyterian Theological SeminaryFinally! A book that moves us beyond 'storytelling' in preaching. In Preaching Jesus Campbell takes the church's story seriously and discloses the revolutionary potential of preaching in a post liberal age. This is the most honest and helpful appraisal of narrative preaching that I know of. We have been waiting for this book and Campbell's exciting new proposals for many years.--Richard Lischer, Duke Divinity SchoolIn a crowded supermarket of junk food and homiletic 'lite' fare, Charles Campbell has brought us a nourishing gift--the solid meat of profound theological reflection on the task of preaching. . . . A rare and welcome book.--Thomas G. Long, Brandy Professor of Preaching at Candler School of TheologyCharles L. Campbell is Peter Marshall Professor of Homiletics, Columbia Theological Seminary.

(A DISTANT GRIEF... . . . is about the persecuted Christians in Uganda and is a compelling witness to the Western Church. It confirms the truth that in suffering is the glory, richness and power of Jesus Christ known fully. The force of the underworld is expressed as the book recounts the diabolical mind and actions of Idi Amin. But Christ is sufficient and wipes the tears from the eyes of His martyred saints and the burgeoning Body of believers in East Africa.My brother Kefa's story is dreadful . . . but absolutely necessary, as non-Third World Christians need to be awakened to the 'principalities and powers' which are loose in our sophisticated society. Recent events remind us that darkness lurks just below the surface in all of us. But the ringing testimony of A DISTANT GRIEF is that we are called to that Light which the darkness cannot extinguish.This is an essential book for those who desire to be people through whom the Light shines.--Senator Mark HatfieldKefa Sempangi founded and pastored the 14,000 member Redeemeed Church of Uganda, which became a target of Idi Amin's persecution in 1973. Kefa and his family escaped death by the narrowest of margins and fled to Kenya, then Europe, and finally to America where he completed a seminary degree and became director of the Africa Foundation, Inc., an organization pledged to help Ugandan refugees fleeing Amin's terrorist regime.

In this insightful work, the author explores the fundamental Christian virtue of 'agape.' Spicq's genius is the way he combines fine linguistic analysis, exegesis, and theological insight. The three volumes cover most of the New Testament books: Volume 1: 'Agape in the Synoptic Gospels' Volume 2: 'Agape in the Epistles of St. Paul, the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles of St. James, St. Peter, and St. Jude' Volume 3: 'Agape in the Gospel, Epistles and Apocalypse of St. John'In the writings of St. John there is one aspect of 'agape' which is brought out in singular relief--the aspect of manifestation and proof. Most of St. John's uses of the word should be translated 'manifest love,' 'love which proves itself,' or 'the economy, the development of the divine love.' --from the IntroductionCeslas Spicq, O.P., was an internationally recognized biblical scholar. He is also the author of 'Theological Lexicon of the New Testament' (3 vols.), 'The Trinity and Our Moral Life according the St. Paul,' and 'The Mystery of Godliness.'

In this insightful work, the author explores the fundamental Christian virtue of 'agape.' Spicq's genius is the way he combines fine linguistic analysis, exegesis, and theological insight. The three volumes cover most of the New Testament books: Volume 1: 'Agape in the Synoptic Gospels' Volume 2: 'Agape in the Epistles of St. Paul, the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles of St. James, St. Peter, and St. Jude' Volume 3: 'Agape in the Gospel, Epistles and Apocalypse of St. John' Agape is an active and effective love operating with a singular tenderness. The Sermon on the Mount stressed its heroic forms of patience and of gentleness. The parable of the Good Samaritan shows it to be attentive and tender, truly compassionate. . . . In the Gospel, to love means to give, to give oneself, to belong to another--to belong to God in obedience and consecration, to belong to neighbor in service and compassion. --from the ConclusionCeslas Spicq, O.P., was an internationally recognized biblical scholar. He is also the author of 'Theological Lexicon of the New Testament' (3 vols.), 'The Trinity and Our Moral Life according the St. Paul,' and 'The Mystery of Godliness.'

He is regarded today as one of the most influential figures in the history of the world. But to those who knew him intimately, Martin Luther was more than just the leader of an important historical revolt; he was a man of vision, commitment, and passion, determined to serve his Lord and purify the degenerate world church. From the outset, Luther's enemies--the corrupt ecclesiastical and political rulers of his day--joined forces to stop the spread of his radical ideas, ideas that would shake the church and the world's greatest political powers to their core. But God mercifully allowed Luther to resist the armies of the world, armed only with the sword of His Word. Now you can witness Luther's stand against Charles V and his surprising romance with former nun Kate von Bora, view the societal changes that led to the Reformation, and see how God equipped one extraordinary man to stand strong--though it often meant standing conspicuously alone--in the midst of the raging Storm.The best novels are not to be read, but met. When I picked up Storm, the cover swung open on a rich era. Germany was all about me, and I was lost for hours in an exciting world of faith and courage.--Dr. Calvin Miller, best-selling authorReg Grant is Professor of Pastoral Ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary. He has authored and coauthored several books and articles and has written, produced, and acted for radio, television, theater, and film. Several of his films have won major festival awards and two have been honored with Emmy awards. He and his wife, Lauren, are the parents of three children.

Following his father's classic work CHURCH DOGMATICS, Markus Barth considered the doctrine of the Lord's Supper, which, had not received a full treatment. His work resulted in an exegesis of the Lord's Supper texts in the Synoptics, the Fourth Gospel, and the Pauline letters.His perspective sees the Lord's supper and its accomanying Agape meal as a symbolic event that allows God's people to commune in an atmosphere that remains open to all, including the Jews, whose Passover continues to shed light on this sacrament.His presentation covers the Lord's Supper, Passover, the relationship of Christians and Jews, and the participation of children in communion. He challenges the definitions of Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry as expressed in the Lima Document, offering one of the most sharply stated alternatives available. His discussion provides a reexamination of the Lord's Supper as a symbol of ecumenism--the opportunity for all God's people to celebrate together. This approach makes an important ecumenical contribution to understanding the Lord's Supper from a New Testament perspective.Markus Barth (1915-1994) studied Protestant theology in Bern Basel, Berlin, and Edinburgh, and received his Th.D.from the University of Goettingen in 1947. He served as pastor in Bubendorf, Switzerland, from 1940-1953. Thereafter, he taught New Testament at theological schools in Dubuque, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Basel. His books include Israel and the Church, Justification, The People of God, and Jesus the Jew.

'Faith and Ideologies' continues to develop the key concepts that Segundo had previously analyzed in 'The Liberation of Theology'. He does this with great incisiveness and profundity both on the anthropological and the theological levels, while dialoguing with such partners as Bateson, Pannenberg, and Tracy in the West and Marx, Machovec, and Lukacs in the East. The book . . . is must reading for those exploring the frontiers of contemporary theology.--Alfred T. Hennellyauthor of 'Theologies in Conflict: The Challenge of Juan Luis Segundo'Juan Luis Segundo, a Jesuit theologian from Uruguay, is author of Liberation of Theology, Liberation of Dogma, and The Sacraments Today.

Here is an essential handbook for all those who would ""do theology today, written by one of America's most distinguished theologians.The book is divided into four parts:-- ""Theology of Theology, which extends, deepens, and renders more persuasive the author's lines of thought on theological prolegomena-- ""Theology and Christology, which argues that to do theology today one must be concerned above all with the fundamental questions of God and Jesus-- ""Theology of Religions, which implies that to do theology today is to do it in a truly global context, in the presence of the plurality of ways of being human, including those represented by non-Christian religions-- ""Theology in Conversation, which claims that to do theology today is to enter into close and sustained conversation with others who either are or have been engaged in the same task of critical reflectionSchubert Ogden is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Theology at Southern Methodist University. His other books include 'The Reality of God and Other Essays' and 'Christ Without Myth: A Study Based on the Theology of Rudolf Bultmann'.

Previously published under the title Alive to God through Prayer, this book has been thoroughly revised and updated to reflect the current prayer needs of Christians. Demaray offers an enlightening study of how prayer works and explains how any Christian can develop a richer prayer life. Here you will learn how to establish a personal pattern of prayer, how to pray for specific needs (growth, healing, revival, etc.), how to lead a prayer group, how to pray with your family, and much more. One chapter entitled Especially for Ministers and Prayer Group Leaders gives a wealth of practical suggestions to help Christian leaders enrich the prayer life of their congregations. A section of discussion questions at the end of each chapter will prompt you to think further and try some of the prayer methods Demaray describes. These questions also can serve as a springboard for group discussions.HOW ARE YOU PRAYING? . . . presents a reverent approach to the practical aspects of a life of prayerful communion with God. It is an excellent guide for group study and for training courses, as well as for individual instruction and inspiration. Frank Bateman Stanger President Emeritus Asbury Theological SeminaryDon Demaray, longtime professor of preaching and spiritual formation at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore,Kentucky, has published WESLEY'S DAILY PRAYERS, EXPERIENCING HEALING: A JOURNEY IN FAITH, and other works onChristian living. He and Kathleen have three children and four grandchildren. Don collects books, does gardening, walks and swims.

Must religion and science conflict?Can a man of science find a spiritual path?Meet Tim, a chemical engineer, who gradually finds his exclusive reliance on science being called into question by the events of his life, by his dreams, and by discussions with his coworker Matt and Matt's wife June. Their conversations probe, debate, and explore whether science alone is sufficient to explain everything, how science and religion might coexist, whether science might lead toward a spiritual path, and what sort of spirituality might be both life-transforming and congruent with modern science. Tim struggles, resists, and, in spite of himself, finds his viewpoint slowly changing. Tim's story illustrates the finding of a spiritual path in a scientific age, not through a drastic crisis but rather through a gradual process of becoming open to new experiences and rethinking old assumptions.James W. Jones, PsyD, PhD, ThD, has earned doctorates in both religious studies and clinical psychology, as well as an honorary doctorate from the University of Uppsala in Sweden. He is a professor of religion and adjunct professor of clinical psychology at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey; a lecturer in psychiatry and religion at Union Theological Seminary in New York; an adjunct professor of medical humanities at Drew University; and a visiting professor at the University of Uppsala in Sweden. His other books include Contemporary Psychoanalysis and Religion (1991), Religion and Psychology in Transition (1996), and Terror and Transformation: The Ambiguity of Religion (2002).

Fr. Jake Empereur, S.J., vicar and liturgist at the San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio, Texas, was for many years a professor of systematic and liturgical theology at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley and the Graduate Theological Union. During that time he founded the Institute for Spirituality and Worship, a nine-month renewal program which has trained people from all around the world. He was also the founding editor of Modern Liturgy Magazine that still continues today under the name of Ministry and Liturgy. At Berkeley he was very much involved in the area of theology and the arts. He also taught courses in the enneagram and spiritual direction. In 1994 he moved to San Antonio, Texas, to work in Hispanic ministry at the San Fernando Cathedral and to be the cathedral liturgist. There he continues his work in teaching and writing while being engaged as a full time parish priest. He is the author of several books and articles in the field of liturgy and sacraments. His latest books are The Enneagram and Spiritual Direction and Spiritual Direction and the Gay Person. His latest book with the title of La Vida Sacra: Hispanic Sacramental Theology should appear in 2006.Christopher G. Kiesling is also the author of _The Spirit and Practice of the Liturgy_, _The Future of the Christian Sunday_, and _Celibacy, Prayer, and Friendship_.

Margaret Miles here explores Christianity's understandings of the human body in the past and presents new concepts for the future. An enlightening investigation into how the body has been perceived through the ages, Fullness of Life offers surprising conclusions that historic Christian authors from Ignatius of Antioch to Thomas Aquinas, far from viewing the body in a negative way, have been overwhelmingly affirmative. Providing the basis for a greater appreciation of the human body as the focus of life and salvation, this unique work sheds a new light on what it means to be fully alive and fully human in the Christian tradition.Margart R. Miles was formerly Bussey Professor of Historical Theology at the Harvard University Divinity School. She is the author of Augustine on the Body, Image as Insight, and Carnal Knowing.

An investigation of the term pneuma in Paul's letter to the Galations is needed from the side of NT scholarship, because debate continues over the question about the nature of the crisis in the churches of Galatia and, therefore, about the historical occasion of Paul's statements about the Spirit. The focus of this debate is the character of Paul's opponents in the Galatian churches. Currently, the consensus is limited to a single point: that someone was engaging in a circumcizing campaign in the Galatian churches. But on the other points no agreement exists.The two parts of this study are distinguished in that the first part deals with the historical context of Paul's statements about the Spirit in Galatians: that is, the events because of which Paul wrote the letter, and the nature and social setting of expriences of the Spirit in the life of the Galatian churches. The second part deals with the theology of the Spirit in Paul's message to the Galatians, which has three aspects-soteriology, christology, and eschatology.-from the IntroductionThis important and closely argued study of the experience of the Spirit marks a real advance in the discussion of Galatians. Lull's work, a dissertation directed by H. D. Betz, follows many of the lines laid out by Betz in his commentary and elsewhere, but Lull is an independent scholar who makes his own judgments and carries the discussion forward at several key points. . . . Lull shows how the Spirit can be seen as more than an existentialist understanding of existence on the one hand, and more than a universal creative Spirit on the other.-William A. BeardsleeJournal of Biblical LiteratureThe study is a welcome contribution to a neglected area of research. It will prove useful to pastors since it treats responsibly a topic on which so much nonsense is written. . . . The treatment of the Spirit in Galatia is timely, and the link that is forged with ethics is suggestive.-Calvin J. RoetzelInterpretationDavid J. Lull is Associate Professor of New Testament at the Wartburg Theological Seminary. He is co-author (with John B. Cobb, Jr.) of Romans (Chalice Press, 2005) and is currently working on Galatians, Philippians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, Philemon, Chalace Press Commentaries for Today.

In 'Spiritual Connections: The Journey of Discipleship and Christian Values', psychologist-priest Brian P. Hall shares his own discernment of God's will in order to instruct others about their own personal discernment of Jesus' call to discipleship. In easily read, though highly focused form, he instructs the reader on practical skills basic to making faith, hope, and love vital. Here is a map of the landscape of discipleship as mediated by the values which energize our lives. The thoughtful reader will come away with a deeper sense of his or her own values, how these reflect and express one's personal relationship with Jesus, and from an empirical research point of view, how elegantly these values make sense of our being called forth into all that God intend us to become. -- James B. Ashbrookauthor of 'Minding the Soul: Pastoral Counseling As Remembering'Dr. Brian P. Hall is Professor Emeritus of Pastoral Counseling at Santa Clara University and an ordained Episcopal priest. He is also chairman of Values Technology, an organization committed to training religious and corporate leaders in values theory and its application in order to bring about changes that result in a more caring, interdependent society worldwide.

Vital . . . pertaining to life; essential; of critical importance. Christology . . . the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ. Issues . . . a point or matter, the decision of which is of special or public importance. A dictionary can define the terms, but tackling the tough texts and difficult issues of church leadership requires skillful study and balanced reflection upon the whole of Scripture. Vital Christology Issues draws upon the insights and study of numerous evangelical scholars and writers to address crucial issues in Christology. Some of the chapters included are: The Ministry of Christ in His Life on Earth by John F. Walvoord The Temptation of Christ by S. Lewis Johnson Jr. The Savior's Sufferings in Life by Robert P. LightnerChristian readers, church leaders, and pastors will appreciate the helpful guidance of Vital Christology Issues. Roy B. Zuck is Senior Professor Emeritus of Bible Exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary, where he taught for twenty-three years, including seven years as Vice President for Academic Affairs. He is editor of 'Bibliotheca Sacra' and coeditor of the widely acclaimed two-volume 'Bible Knowledge Commentary'. He has written or edited more than seventy books on Christian education and biblical and theological topics. His books include 'Teaching as Paul Taught', 'Spirit-Filled Teaching', and 'Basic Bible Interpretation'.

Vital New Testament Issues Vital . . . pertaining to life; essential; of critical importance. New Testament . . . the covenant of God with man embodied in the coming of Christ, his teachings, and that of his followers as set forth in the Bible. Issues . . . a point or matter, the decision of which is of special or public importance. A dicitionary can define the terms, but tackling the tough texts and difficult issues of Old Testament studies requires skillful study and balanced reflection upon the whole of Scripture. Vital New Testament Issues: Examining New Testament Passages and Problems draws upon the insights and study of numerous evangelical scholars and writers to address crucial interpretative questions. Some of the chapters included are The End of the Law by Charles C. Ryrie Tongues and the Mystery Religions of Corinth by H. Wayne House Do the Synoptics Depend on Each Other? by Charles H. DyerChristian readers, church leaders, and pastors will appreciate the helpful scholarship of Vital New Testament Issues.Roy B. Zuck is Senior Professor Emeritus of Bible Exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary, where he taught for twenty-three years, including seven years as Vice President for Academic Affairs. He is editor of 'Bibliotheca Sacra' and coeditor of the widely acclaimed two-volume 'Bible Knowledge Commentary'. He has written or edited more than seventy books on Christian education and biblical and theological topics. His books include 'Teaching as Paul Taught', 'Spirit-Filled Teaching', and 'Basic Bible Interpretation'.

John Bale (1495 - 1563) made a strong impact on the growth of English Protestant self-consciousness in the sixteenth century. He spent twenty years as a Carmelite friar, and then converted to Protestantism in the mid-1530s. Henry VIII's government enlisted Bale to write and produce plays against the Papacy; he had a decisive influence on John Foxe, and Foxe's 'Book of Martyrs' (1563); and Bale's drama 'Kynge Johan' was an important link between the medieval mystery plays and the age of Shakespeare. His greatest achievement, however, was his re-telling of English history in light of the Reformation. Bale argued that England had a divine vocation to protect and defend Protestantism against Roman political subversion and non-Biblical religion. Bale's story of England as the ""new Israel shaped the self-consciousness of the Elizabethan age, and via John Winthrop and New England in 1630 bequeathed a sense of national vocation to America as well.Leslie P. Fairfield studied at Princeton and Harvard, taught at Purdue University, and served for thirty years as Professor of Church History at Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry.

The Complete Guide for Senior Adult MinistryOver one quarter of Americans are age fifty or older. This sizable group has unique needs and requires specialized ministry. In this resource, pastor to senior adults Dr. David Gallagher offers invaluable insights, practical ideas, and successful strategies for ministering effectively to people over 50. In this book you'll find:- THE BIG PICTURE AND NUTS AND BOLTS OF SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY. This book offers a fresh framework of ministry goals and vision, as well as the practical insights to accomplish them. It includes steps for effective senior adult ministry, characteristics of senior adults, ways to involve senior adults in ministry, and more!- 150 SOLID GOLD MINISTRY TIPS, TIME-SAVERS, AND LIFE-SAVERS. This priceless help will be useful to both those new and experienced at senior adult ministry. - POWERFUL OUTREACH ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS. These tested and proven-effective ideas help meet the social, emotional and spiritual needs of seniors!- REPRODUCIBLE WORKSHEETS AND HANDOUTS. Found in most chapters, you'll find these reproducible helps invaluable for sparking creativity for all areas of senior adult ministry. A must-have, fresh, new resource for churches who truly desire to effectively reach everyone in their community.,Dr. Dave Gallagher is a nationally known author, speaker and pastor emeritus who also serves on the staff at Green lake Conference Center in Green Lake, Wisconsin and partners with Church Growth, Inc., Monrovia, California. He is a widely respected authority who has written extensively in the field of pastoral and adult ministry. Gallagher's most recent book is Healing Takes Time (Liturgical Press, 2005).

A Christian scholar of Buddhism, Paul Ingram here develops a primordial theology that deals with the key religious issues of our times, including religious ways of knowing, the character of the Sacred, our relation with nature, and the various forms of liberation--of the self, of others, and the final liberation from death--with which all religious Ways must deal.This elegantly written, wide-ranging discussion of core topics in religion is filled with provocative insights on many topics. --Rita M. Grossauthor of 'Buddhism after Patriarchy'Paul Ingram is exploring a new genre of religious writing, one that is based on long study and teaching of the writings of another tradition but which approaches these, openly and intentionally, with the questions that arise in our own Western, Christian experience. Readers learn much about Buddhism, but they do so in a way that responds ot their own existential questions and thereby teaches them still more about themselves. History of religions here becomes a theological discipline in the sense that it is put to use to help Christians advance in their own faith journey. --John B. Cobb, Jr.author of Beyond DialogueOne of the most novel, creative, and accessible takes on the question of what to make of the many religions. Ingram tests his model out within the practical world and its cries for ecological, social, and gender liberation. And all this with a casual, colorful, down-to-earth style.--Paul Knitterauthor of Introducing Theologies of ReligionsPaul O. Ingram is Professor of Religion Emeritus at Pacific Lutheran University (Tacoma, Washington). He is the author of 'Wrestling with the Ox', 'The Modern Buddhist-Christian Dialogue', and 'The Dharma of Faith'.

'Organic Spirituality' helps readers recover the sense of awe, vitality, and wonder that they had as children. Nicki Verploegen enables us to see that the contemplative life does not mean retreating from the world but discovering joy in the everday. Her sixfold path shows us how to find our way organically throughslowing down, sharing stories, stillness, solitude, surrender, and solidarity.If you want to experience God's love in the ordinary things in your life, read and apply this book. -- Joseph G. Donders, author of 'Jesus the Stranger'Sometimes the hardest step is knowing where and how to begin. Organic Spirituality provides a resounding answer, a jumping off place for living with more balance and conscious awareness of our solidarity with all the earth. -- Megan McKenna, author of Not Counting Women and ChildrenNicki Verploegen holds a doctorate in spirituality and has been giving retreats and spiritual direction for over twenty years. A Montana rancher's daughter, she has spent time in Japan, Indonesia, Tanzania, and Liberia exploring approaches to contemplative living. She is author of 'Planning and Implementing Retreats: A Parish Handbook' and 'Meditations With Merton'. Currently, she resides at St. Joseph Dwelling Place in Vermont.

In competitive sports we prize teamwork. We know that a mature team will usually beat an astounding collection of individual players. The burden of creating such esprit de corps falls to the coach and the team of leaders he has assembled. After all, a team without a coach cannot win. But what happens when the coach himself does not understand the dynamics of teamwork?In a similar manner, every leader of every church is a coach of sorts, with a ministry team responsible for the life of the church. The question put to you as a pastor is this: Are you a team player? Even more to the point: Whose team are you building?""Too many church leaders,"" writes author Kenn Gangel, ""have fallen into the trap of personal kingdom-building, a focused concern on one's own and present ministry without a wider recognition of kingdom participation.""The net effect of this condition has led to narrow vision, stunted church growth, and frustrated relationships within the body of Christ. In contrast, Gangel explores broad and penetrating support throughout the Word of God for team-based, inclusive, cooperative leadership. From Jethro's advice to Moses all the way to Jesus's approach to discipleship, biblical leadership is viewed as a tool to be shared--a model of servanthood, mentoring, and the mutual interdependence of gifts.Along the way Gangel explores the character attributes of successful biblical leadership--common things like humility, patience, and quiet dignity. From there he reveals how these qualities open an authentic leader up to the wide and thrilling possibilities of working hand-in-hand with others in the Lord's work...together.""I've made a lifelong study of leadership. There are many names for the leader: shepherd, pastor, president, chairman, coach. All these are leaders who gather individuals around them to form a team. My longtime friend and colleague, Dr. Kenneth O. Gangel, has been doing this for years. Therefore he knows much about teamwork. In several different ministry positions he has built teams that functioned smoothly and effectively. What are the keys to team building? Dr. Gangel has insightfully answered that question in this volume."" --Dr. Charles Swindoll ""Credibility in a book on leadership is a special gift. Coaching Ministry Teams is clearly rooted in experience, not theory. It bristles with successful stories and successful practice.""--Max De PreeKenneth O. Gangel (1935 - 2009) was Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Dallas Seminary, the Scholar-in-Residence at Toccoa Falls College, and a senior consultant with Timothy Partners. He held a BA in business administration, three master's degrees from accredited seminaries, and a PhD in educational administration from the University of Missouri. The author or editor of 55 books, Dr. Gangel lectured in over forty educational institutions worldwide.

Richard L. Morgan has produced a welcome resource for those of us who have been divorced and felt we were beyond the pale of the Christian community. It is true that Jesus speaks against divorce, but it is also true that some New Testament scholars believe he was speaking to protect the rights of the oppressed under ancient law -- the oppressed being women. On the other hand, divorce is a painful experience that impacts over half of those who married. It cannot be ignored by religious leaders (some of whom themselves may be divorced). If we believe in acknowledging sin without casting the sinner out, we need to find ways of healing in churches. I always reminded myself in giving sermons that if national statistics were right, half of my listeners had been impacted by divorce. -- Rev. Dr. John C. Morgan, minister, teacher, and author of 'Awakening the Soul'.Richard Lyon Morgan is a retired Presbyterian minister and pastoral counselor, now living at Redstone Highlands, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. In addition to his doctorate in church history, he has a master's degree in counseling from Wake Forest University. A former pastoral counselor with School of Pastoral Care, he has led divorce support groups and counseled many persons, yound and old, going through the process of divorce. Dr. Morgan is divorced and married again with ten grandchildren.