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The Message of Ephesians (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by John StottA common blind spot for evangelical Christians is to overlook the central importance of the church, emphasizing individual salvation more than the saved community. Yet no one can come away from a careful reading of Ephesians with a privatized gospel. Paul's letter to the Ephesians clearly sets forth God's eternal purpose to create the church—God's new society. In this revised Bible Speaks Today volume, John Stott expounds Paul's theme of uniting all things in Christ by uniting his church. Guiding readers passage by passage through Ephesians, he provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. Drawing from his many years of studying and teaching Ephesians, Stott lays out the book's compelling vision of what the church should be and its ongoing need for renewal. Christians are called to new life, new standards, and new relationships within the new society, where God breaks down all the barriers that have divided us from God and each other. This revised edition of a classic volume features a new interior design, updated Scripture quotations, and light updates throughout.
The Message of Exodus: The Days of Our Pilgrimage (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by J. A. MotyerWhen the Lord promised the land of Canaan to Abram and his descendants (Gen 15:7), every part of it was already occupied by other peoples. The long journey to possession of the Promised Land was prepared by God, yet it led through a path of adversity. We, the readers of the Old Testament, are left to wonder why. In this engaging Bible Speaks Today commentary on Exodus, J. Alec Motyer explores the character of God through his covenant promises and persistent faithfulness to the people of Israel. Through the story of Israel we are exposed to an unquenchable fire: God the Savior, the Companion and the Indweller, who will not fail those who so often fail him.
The Message of Ezra & Haggai (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Robert FyallFew sermons or Bible studies focus on Ezra or Haggai, two brief Old Testament books named for relatively unknown figures.
The Message of Galatians: Only One Way (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by John StottTo enclaves of young converts in the mountains of Asia Minor, Paul wrote what is perhaps the oldest document in the New Testament—the letter to the Galatians. Paul's readers were struggling with numerous issues: How were men and women to be put right with God? Among a variety of religious authorities espousing different teachings, how were they to know who was right? How could Christians in the midst of a pagan culture live lives truly pleasing to God? Only one way, answered Paul: through Jesus Christ. In this volume, John Stott helps us understand the message of Galatians and how it holds true in the face of current challenges to our faith. Guiding readers passage by passage through Galatians, he provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. This revised edition of a classic Bible Speaks Today volume features a new interior design, updated Scripture quotations, and light updates throughout.
The Message of Genesis 12–50: From Abraham To Joseph (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Joyce G. BaldwinAbraham—called out of Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan, there to found a great nation, a blessing to all peoples. Isaac—his son, taken to be sacrificed by his father, until God provided a substitute. Jacob—Isaac's son, the schemer who cheated his older brother of his birthright but whose thigh (and heart) was broken as he wrestled all night with God's messenger. Joseph—the dreamer sold into Egypt by his brothers, who meant it for evil while God meant it for good. These are the patriarchs whose stories are told in Genesis 12–50. Why have these accounts been preserved? What importance do they have in the development of Israel's understanding of God? What message from them does God have for us today? In this Bible Speaks Today volume, Joyce Baldwin skillfully weaves her answers to these questions, bringing the history of an ancient people to bear on our lives.
The Message of Genesis 1–11 (The Bible Speaks Today Series #Vol. 1)
by David J. AtkinsonGenesis shows us how and why we are. It uncovers the origins of evil. It illuminates the meaning of freedom. It expresses the harmony of creation. And it offers hope for the renewal of our natural world and for the healing of our broken relationships. "Genesis 1–11 is really an overture to the rest of the Bible." So writes David Atkinson in his introduction to this thoughtful and spiritual guide to the opening chapters of Genesis. Writing as a scientist and as a pastor, Atkinson avoides technicalities and speculation and provides a skillful guide to the text's theological significance. While many commentaries on these chapters become tangled in problems of dating, authorship and historicity, this Bible Speaks Today volume on the opening chapters of Genesis focuses on the issues that really matter. Atkinson's work will be a delight to all—seasoned expositors and novice readers alike.
The Message of John: Here Is Your King! (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Bruce MilneJohn's Gospel has long been a favorite among Christians.The Message of John
The Message of Joshua: Promise And People (The Bible Speaks Today Series #Available December)
by David G. FirthPreaching's
The Message of Kings: God Is Present (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by John W. OlleyAt the beginning of 1 and 2 Kings, Solomon's reign brought peace, prosperity, dynamic international trade and a magnificent center of worship. At the end, by contrast, the people faced a complete reversal: they and their king were in exile; Jerusalem and the temple lay in ruins. How can this story of reversal, told by the very people who suffered the defeat, be of value today and equip us "for every good work"? In this Bible speaks Today volume, John Olley shows how the two books of Kings retell the past as preached history, addressing the exilic situation of the original readers. This in turn helps as we ask how they speak to us today. Within the account of paths leading to short-term success but ultimate failure, there are pointers of hope, of God's continuing purposes and promises, and of the people's response in the present. In rich and often surprising ways, the narrative in Kings is part of the history that has shaped, and will continue to shape, the faith and life of Christian believers. Everyday life, along with the turmoil of national and global events, is the arena in which God's people are called to worship, trust and obey him, and it is on aspects of this life that 1 and 2 Kings can throw light.
The Message of Luke: Saviour Of The World (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockLuke the physician was fascinated by people—rich and poor, Jews and Gentiles, men and women, rulers and slaves.
The Message of Malachi: 'i Have Loved You,' Says The Lord (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Peter AdamThe book of Malachi fittingly sits in Christian Bibles as the last book of the Old Testament, which it assumes, summarizes and applies. Yet it also looks forward to the New Testament with its promises of the coming reign of God. A striking feature of the book is the way in which every word of God is contradicted or questioned by his people. God's persistence in speaking to them is a clear picture of sin and grace in close proximity. Furthermore, God's people neither served him wholeheartedly nor turned entirely away in blatant disobedience. This was not neutral territory but a dangerous whirlpool of self-deception. Peter Adam's thorough exposition shows how Malachi is God's effective remedy for such a situation. The greatest sin of God's people is the sin against God—the source of all sin against ourselves and others. At the heart of God's people, the church, must lie a deep, overwhelming conviction that God loves them—just as he reminds Israel in his first words to them in this book.
The Message of Mark (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Donald EnglishThe fast-paced vitality of Mark's narrative wins the hearts of today's readers on its own terms.The Message of Mark
The Message of Matthew: The Kingdom of Heaven (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by E. Michael GreenMatthew's Gospel is the first--and perhaps the most important--single document of the New Testament. In it you will find the fullest and most systematic account of the birth, life, teaching, death and resurrection of the founder of Christianity, Jesus the Messiah. In this Bible Speaks Today volume, Michael Green shows how this very Jewish Gospel portrays the power and purpose of Jesus' life and work, which was to bring light to all nations. Matthew records Jesus as Messiah, Son of God, Son of David, Son of Man and supremely as God returning to Jerusalem as judge and redeemer. The consequences of this steady focus are as relevant now as then. Now more than ever we need to hear Matthew's emphasis on the unity of God's revelation old and new, its teaching on the life of discipleship, its exploration of the meaning of the kingdom of heaven, and its insights into the people of the Messiah, the end of the world and the universality of the Good News. Green offers introductory material on the author of Matthew, the readers to whom the Gospel was originally written, the popularity of the Gospel, its structure and themes, and recent scholarship focused on Matthew. He then provides a passage-by-passage exposition of Matthew, paying attention to the application of the text as well as its interpretation. A study guide follows the exposition and will help you to further ponder and practice what this Gospel teaches you about Jesus and your place in the kingdom of Heaven.
The Message of Matthew: The Kingdom of Heaven (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by E. Michael GreenMatthew's Gospel is the first—and perhaps the most important—single document of the New Testament.
The Message of Numbers: Journey to the Promised Land (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Raymond BrownNumbers is one of the "lost" books of the Bible—lost because it is neglected by many Christians. Named for its two "numberings," or censuses, of Israel—the generation that left Egypt and the generation that entered the land of promise—Numbers frames a fascinating account of the pilgrim people Israel learning to trust God. Readers are frequently puzzled by the dazzling variety of literature that makes up this book and wonder how to make sense of the whole. But in this thorough exposition of Numbers, Raymond Brown discloses the careful design and message of Numbers. He shows how God provides for the basic needs of the ideal life: to be loved, to be free, to be certain. Further, Brown highlights the rich theological themes of Numbers, untangles its meaning for today's readers and shows its enduring relevance for God's people.
The Message of Obadiah, Nahum and Zephaniah: The Kindness And Severity Of God (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Gordon BridgerObadiah, Nahum and Zephaniah are probably among the least-read books of the Bible, and rarely preached. However, Gordon Bridger encourages us to study and apply these three Old Testament prophets for several compelling reasons. As part of Scripture, endorsed by Jesus, they claim to bring a message from God, and teach us some major truths: the importance of focusing on God, who is personal, sovereign, righteous and loving; of facing up to sin and judgment; of responding in repentance and faith; and of the hope of future salvation and restoration. They also relate to the real world, in touch with the social and political issues of their day (the seventh century BC), as well as spiritual and moral issues: sleaze amongst political leaders, unfaithfulness of religious leaders, national and personal pride, crimes against humanity and persecution of God's people. Hence, these challenging books tackle themes and issues, expounded here with clarity and conviction, which are especially relevant to today's church and world.
The Message of Philippians: Jesucristo, Nuestro Regocijo (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by J. Alec MotyerPaul wrote his letter to the Philippians while he was in prison, but it contains no hint of self-pity. Instead, the letter radiates joy—joy that Christ was proclaimed, joy in fellowship with the Philippian Christians, and above all, joy in Jesus himself. In this Bible Speaks Today volume, J. A. Motyer identifies three major themes that filled Paul's heart and mind as he wrote: the unity of the church, the person of Jesus and what he has achieved, and the call to live a life worthy of the gospel. Guiding readers passage by passage through Philippians, Motyer provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. This new edition of a classic BST volume includes a new interior design, lightly updated language, and updated Scripture quotations throughout.
The Message of Proverbs: Wisdom for Life (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by David J. AtkinsonThe book of Proverbs is the most practical book in the Bible. Its instruction in the art of living has been long tried and long proven. Its proverbial seeds of discernment are ready to be planted and rooted in the receptive soil of wisdom's hearers today. As much as we glean from the surface of Proverbs, there remains still more in its depths. David Atkinson's commentary wonderfully illumines the ancient cultural and religious background of the discourses and sayings of Proverbs. More important, Atkinson brings the wisdom of Proverbs into conversation with the wisdom of God now more fully displayed in Christ, clarifying the place of Proverbs in the pattern of God's Word. Part of the beloved Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Proverbs offers an insightful, readable exposition of the biblical text and thought-provoking discussion of how its meaning relates to contemporary life. Used by students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for those studying or preaching the Bible and anyone who wants to delve deeper into the text. This revised edition of a classic volume features lightly updated language and a new interior design.
The Message of Psalms 1–72: Songs for the People of God (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockThe Message of Psalms 73–150,
The Message of Psalms 1–72: Songs for the People of God (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockThe book of Psalms is a favorite of Christians, even though we frequently read it in portions and pieces, hopscotching through the familiar and avoiding the odd, the unpleasant, and the difficult. But though the individual psalms arose from an assortment of times, experiences, and settings, the book is composed in a deliberate pattern, not as a random anthology. The meaning of the Psalms is discovered in this pattern and order. Michael Wilcock has written a travel guide to the Psalms. In this first volume, he invites us to begin our journey through the gateway of Psalms 1 and 2, with their summons to obedience. In the second volume, The Message of Psalms 73–150, he ends with Psalm 150 and its song of praise. In between we pass through all the complexities of faith—the conflicts, burdens, mysteries, and sufferings of life. In these laments and praises, hymns and liturgies, the Bible continues to speak clearly today. Part of the beloved Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Psalms 1–72 offers an insightful, readable exposition of the biblical text and thought-provoking discussion of how it relates to contemporary life. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for anyone studying or preaching Scripture and those who want to delve deeper into the text. This edition features lightly updated language, the current NIV Bible text, and a new interior design.
The Message of Romans: God's Good News For The World (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by John StottWhen Paul first penned his letter to the house churches of Rome, his purpose was to gain prayerful support for his coming mission to the western Mediterranean. Little did he know that for two millennia this finely tuned exposition of the gospel would echo through church and academy, market and home, around the world. In this revised Bible Speaks Today volume, John Stott clearly expounds Paul's words, themes, and arguments in Romans and offers applications for today's readers. He explores the epistle's rich harmonies and broad vision, highlighting the power of the gospel. Deeply acquainted with the text and context of Romans and Pauline scholarship, Stott also views Romans from his own pastoral and missionary perspective. This revised edition of a classic Bible Speaks Today volume features lightly updated language, current NIV Scripture quotations and a new interior design. A study guide at the end of the book will help you more deeply ponder the message of Romans and how it speaks to your life.
The Message of Samuel: Personalities, Potential, Politics and Power (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Mary J. EvansReading the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, we witness the transition of Israel from tribal confederacy to established monarchy. And, as Mary Evans shows in this passage-by-passage BST commentary, during such a transition questions of identity and power are unavoidable. In the aftermath of the decline of the judges, priests abuse their priestly privileges; a people covets the centralized authority of its impious neighbors; and a throne is won, forsaken, redeemed, lost and found again. But in the key characters in this dawning era of Israelite history we see, hidden behind the faults and failings of Israel's best and brightest, the faithfulness of a God who looks on the heart and directs the path of every king and every kingdom.
The Message of the Church: Assemble The People Before Me (The\bible Speaks Today Bible Themes Ser.)
by Christopher GreenPreaching's Preacher's Guide to the Best Bible Reference for 2014 (Theology)
The Message of the Gita
by M. K. GandhiThe Gita is not an aphoristic work; it is a great religious poem. The deeper you dive into it, the richer the meanings you get. It being meant for the people at large, there is pleasing repetition. With every age the important words will carry new and expanding meanings. But its central teaching will never vary. The seeker is at liberty to extract from this treasure any meaning he likes so as to enable him to enforce in his life the central teaching.
The Message of the Prophets: A Survey of the Prophetic and Apocalyptic Books of the Old Testament
by Tremper Longman III J. Daniel HaysChristians sometimes approach the Old Testament with a mixture of awe and bewilderment, knowing that it contains pearls of wisdom, but unsure how to dive for them ... especially when it comes to the Prophets. In The Message of the Prophets, author J. Daniel Hays offers a scholarly, yet readable and student-friendly survey of the Old Testament prophetic literature that presents the message of each prophet in its historical and its biblical context and then tracks that message through the New Testament to challenge readers with what it means for them today. Hays focuses on synthesizing the message of the prophets, which enables students to grasp the major contours of the prophetic books clearly and concisely. Hundreds of colorful pictures help to illustrate the historical and cultural background of the prophets. After identifying what the message meant for ancient Israel, Hays helps the readers to move toward theological application today, helping readers to gain a better understanding of God and the relationship between God and his people. The Message of the Prophets is essential for professors, students, and others seeking to understand the role that the OT prophets play in the Christian faith.