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The Message of Judges: Grace Abounding (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockThe book of Judges bustles with colorful characters. Ehud, a left-handed political assassin who cleverly dispatches a corpulent king. Deborah, a bold prophet and matriarch of Israel who musters tribes to war. Samson, a Rambo-like warrior who dallies with women and annihilates Philistines in a temple of doom. To Christian readers Judges is interesting, sometimes inspiring, but also puzzling. What message should we take from it? How are we to understand the ambiguous spirituality of the judges themselves? What was God doing during this wayward period between Joshua and Samuel? With wit, insight and sensitivity to the narrator's art, Michael Wilcock answers these and other questions. God himself is the Judge, he argues, who transcends the uncertain record of human judges. He is the principal actor in this drama. Always ready to respond to those who call on him, he takes the initiative and uses raw human resources to preserve Israel from her enemies and shape the nation for his purpose. In exposing the twists and turns and nuances of this story, Wilcock sends us back to Judges with a renewed quest, not only to rediscover the story of God and Israel, but to find fresh perspective on the ways of God and his church in a post-Christian world.
The Message of Judges: Grace Abounding (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockThe book of Judges contains some of the most famous of the Bible's stories, as well as some of the least known. They show us the deepest sins of humanity but reveal them in the light of God's abundant grace. Behind human leaders such as Deborah, Jephthah, and Samson stands the principal actor in this drama: God as Judge, discerning and deciding. Michael Wilcock astutely explores the message of Judges to show that God never abandons his people—then or now. In this Bible Speaks Today commentary, Wilcock illuminates the meaning that Judges still holds for us today as a story of God's grace. The Judge of all ensures that his people will never manage to destroy themselves, even though it may look as if they are on course for disaster. Part of the loved and trusted Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Judges 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 beautifully redesigned edition has also been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NRSV Bible text.
The Message of Kings (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by John W. OlleyAt the beginning of 1 Kings, Solomon's reign brought peace, prosperity, dynamic international trade, and a magnificent center of worship. By the end of 2 Kings, the people faced a complete reversal: they and their king were in exile, and Jerusalem and the temple lay in ruins.
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 Lamentations: Honest To God (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Christopher J. H. WrightThe destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 587 BC is the likely setting for the book of Lamentations. This was the most traumatic event in the whole of Old Testament history, with its extreme human suffering, devastation of the ancient city, national humiliation, and the undermining of all that was thought to be theologically guaranteed like the Davidic monarchy, the city of Zion, and the temple of the God of Israel. It is out of that unspeakable pain that Lamentations speaks, in poetry of astonishing beauty and intricacy, though soaked in tears. If we neglect this book, says Chris Wright, we miss the challenge and reward of wrestling with the massive theological issues that permeate it. How can suffering be endured alongside faith in an all-loving, good God? Even if these events are recognized and accepted as God's judgment, has not the flood of brutality and evil gone beyond all bounds? If anarchy, death and destruction stalk the land, can the center of Israel?s faith in the covenant God of faithfulness and mercy hold? In this Bible Speaks Today volume, Wright shows that as Christian readers we must not, and cannot, isolate Lamentations from the rest of the Bible; and equally, that we should not read the rest of the Bible without Lamentations. We must still let it speak for itself, as a book for today.
The Message of Leviticus: Free to Be Holy (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Derek TidballFor most Christians today, there is no message of Leviticus, for Leviticus goes unread. Yet Leviticus was the first priority in Jewish instruction of the law of Moses. Jesus and his hearers knew Leviticus well and took its teachings to heart. The documentary hypothesis that reigned supreme over Pentateuchal studies for most of the twentieth century undercut the internal coherence of Leviticus that swayed the Jews of the New Testament period, speculating that rather than originating with Moses, Leviticus was the nostalgic revisionist history of Judaic reformers in exile. But more recently, such theories have fallen from favor, and Leviticus is being reconsidered for its historical representation of the ancient and foundational era of the Jews. Derek Tidball explores the picture in Leviticus of Israel being brought together under the law of Moses. Here is a definitive presentation of what life as the people of God was to be like: the civic, cultic, religious, moral, legal, family and ritual expectations of the covenant community. In accessible prose, Tidball reveals the message brought to the Jews by Leviticus in their day, making room for us to grasp its message to us in our day.
The Message of Leviticus: Free to Be Holy (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Derek TidballFor many Christians, the book of Leviticus is largely unknown and unread. Yet this book is crucial for understanding the rest of the Bible and the nature of the gospel. In this Bible Speaks Today volume, Derek Tidball shows how this vital part of Scripture is of foundational importance for our view of God and Christian living. Revealing the original message to the people of Israel in their day, he makes room for us to grasp its message to us in our day. Tidball demonstrates how Leviticus serves as a preliminary sketch of the masterpiece that was to be unveiled in Christ, testifying to a faith of grace, love, and gratitude—and one that sets God's people free to be holy. Part of the beloved Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Exodus 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, current NIV Scripture quotations, and a new interior design.
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. In his Gospel he delights to portray Jesus as the Saviour not of an elite group but of anyone, in any condition, who turns to him. Jesus is indeed the Saviour of the world. Luke knew exactly what he was doing when he wrote his Gospel. He tells us his goal in the opening verses: to set forth an orderly and accurate account of what had been accomplished by the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. In this up-to-date exposition, Michael Wilcock gives special attention to these opening words. Then, as he examines the individual deeds and sayings of Jesus, he shows how the structure of Luke's narrative brings out their meaning. The good news of Luke is still true today. No one is beyond redemption unless he chooses to put himself there. This message has implications not only for our personal lives but for our churches and for society as a whole.
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 Nehemiah (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Raymond BrownThe book of Nehemiah is about starting over again. Nehemiah, one of Israel's great leaders, tells firsthand the powerful story of rebuilding ancient Jerusalem's walls after the exile.In this volume, Raymond Brown vividly sketches Nehemiah's historical and social setting and demonstrates the book's striking relevance for today. He explores the dominant themes of Nehemiah's doctrine of God, passion for Scripture, experience of prayer, and example of leadership. In describing Nehemiah the man, Brown concludes, "He must surely be regarded as one of the most inventive and resilient personalities in the rich tapestry of Old Testament biography."The Message of NehemiahThis revised edition of a classic volume features lightly updated language and Scripture quotations with a new interior design.
The Message of Nehemiah: God's Servant In A Time Of Change (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Raymond BrownThe book of Nehemiah is about starting over again. Nehemiah, one of Israel's great leaders, tells firsthand the powerful story of the rebuilding of ancient Jerusalem's walls after the exile. This rebuilding, in the face of great odds, represented the people's renewal of faith, their overcoming of national shame and the reforming of their conduct. In sizing up Nehemiah the man, Raymond Brown surmises: "He must surely be regarded as one of the most inventive and resilient personalities in the rich tapestry of Old Testament biography." Brown vividly sketches Nehemiah's historical and social setting and demonstrates the striking relevance for today of his dominant themes: Nehemiah's doctrine of God, his passion for Scripture, his experience of prayer and his example of leadership.
The Message of Numbers: Journey to the Promised Land (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Raymond BrownWhat does it mean to be pilgrims in a confusing world? What vision of the good life drives us? In this Bible Speaks Today volume, Raymond Brown explores how the book of Numbers offers a picture of a better life. He shows how its message is eminently suited to our world today, a world without firm spiritual and moral foundations. Numbers pictures life as an accompanied journey, and not a meaningless maze. We see how God provides for the basic needs of life: to be loved, to be free, to be certain. Part of the beloved Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Numbers 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, current NIV Scripture quotations, and a new interior design.
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 MotyerIf you were in jail, what sort of letter would you write to your Christian friends? Would it focus on the difficulties--the poor food, cramped quarters and lonely isolation? Paul's letter to the Philippians, written from prison, has no hint of self-pity. 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 volume of the Bible Speaks Today series, Alec 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.
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 (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 sons and daughters today. In The Message of Proverbs the ancient voice of Lady Wisdom cries out again. She summons us to the life skills of godliness and helps us say no to the foolish and destructive enticements that inhabit the malls, campuses, housing divisions and office buildings of the postmodern world. But 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. Wisdom's values are brought into sharp relief. More important, Atkinson brings the wisdom of Proverbs into conversation with the wisdom of God now more fully displayed in Christ. In this way the place of Proverbs in the pattern of God's Word is clearly accented.
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 Psalms 73-150: Songs for the People of God (The Bible Speaks Today Series)
by Michael WilcockThe Message of Psalms 1-72,