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An Introduction to Ministry: A Primer for Renewed Life and Leadership in Mainline Protestant Congregations
by Ian S. Markham Oran E. WarderAn Introduction to Ministry is a comprehensive and ecumenical introduction to the craft of ministry for ministers, pastors, and priests that make up the mainline denominations in the United States. Ecumenically-focused, It offers a grounded account of ministry, covering areas such as vocation, congregational leadership, and cultivation of skills for an effective ministry. Covers the key components of the M.Div. curriculum, offering a map and guide to the central skills and issues in training Explores the areas of vocation, skills for ministry, and issues around congregational leadership Each topic ends with an annotated bibliography providing an indispensable gateway to further study Helps students understand both the distinctive approach of their denomination and the relationship of that approach to other mainline denominations Advocates and defends a generous understanding of the Christian tradition in its openness and commitment to broad conversation
Introduction to Moral Theology (Catholic Moral Thought #1)
by Romanus Cessario OPThe comprehensive introduction to Catholic moral theology by the leading theologian and author of The Moral Virtues and Theological Ethics. In Introduction to Moral Theology, Father Romanus Cessario, O.P. presents and expounds on the basic and central elements of Catholic moral theology written in the light of Veritatis splendor. Since its publication in 2001, this first book in the Catholic Moral Thought series has been widely recognized as an authoritative resource on such topics as moral theology and the good of the human person created in God&’s image; natural law; principles of human action; determination of the moral good through objects, ends, and circumstances; and the virtues, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and the Beatitudes. The Catholic Moral Thought series is designed to provide students with a comprehensive presentation of both the principles of Christian conduct and the specific teachings and precepts for fulfilling the requirements of the Christian life. Soundly based in the teaching of the Church, the volumes set out the basic principles of Catholic moral thought and the application of those principles within areas of ethical concern that are of paramount importance today.
Introduction to Mythology: Third Edition
by J. G. FarrowThe word myth is often misunderstood, to the point that some people can even be quite offended when it is used in the “wrong” context. If the term is so sensitive, then why study it or even acknowledge the validity of such a subject as mythology in our class-rooms? When we study the subject at college or university level, there is a lot more to it than just the adventures of gods or heroes who, in many cases, are not even believed in any more, at least in a literal sense. At this level of the subject we are far more concerned with the real people who actually did (or in some cases still do) believe in the gods and heroes of the systems we will be studying in the course. We are also concerned with the critics and theorists who have been contributing to the subject over the last two centuries. We cannot understand myths fully without having in our minds a complete “tool kit” of theories and interpretations, some of which are new, others which have stood the test of time for a century or more. If you are buying this book, you are probably a serious student who wants to know more about the subject, not just get a couple more credits (though we all know what a big incentive that can be). Mythology has grown as a subject in the past century, especially in the American higher education system. This is a great contrast from European countries, where students are expected to study the original languages of the sources first (especially Latin and Greek), then get to grips with the myths when they read the works of ancient poets such as Homer, Hesiod, Vergil, and Ovid. Even in our system we cannot avoid one basic fact: the word source is the most important word in mythology. Don’t panic the sources used in this book are all translated into plain English for you. Care has been taken to keep it simple. Where there are important issues arising from the use of a particular word or name in a written source, there are footnotes to explain those issues. The shorter examples given in chapters 9 to 12 of this book are each followed by discussion questions which are designed to get you, as a beginning student of mythology, used to knowing what kind of details to look for and how to recognize structures. It helps if you know some actual history and geography, too. At no point must we ever forget that our sources were real people, living in a real place and at a real time.
Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths (3rd Edition)
by Eva M. Thury Margaret K. DevinneyIntegrating original texts with explanations, interpretations, and theory, Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths, Third Edition, introduces students to a wide range of myths drawn from sources all around the world and approached from various critical perspectives. The third edition strengthens its global coverage with two new chapters: Chapter 11, "Mesoamerica: Popol Vuh," and Chapter 43, "The Vampire as Hero: Tales of the Undead in a Contemporary Context."
Introduction to The New Testament
by Raymond F. CollinsPublished to widespread critical acclaim, this is an impressive and sweeping study of the New Testament canon: the preeminent source of Christian doctrine and the center of scholarly discussion/controversy for decades. Introduction to the New Testament presents the full spectrum of thought regarding the New Testament with clarity and completeness, and is a welcome and prestigious entry to this most important field of study.
Introduction to Old Order and Conservative Mennonite Groups: People's Place Book No. 12 (People's Place Bks.)
by Stephen ScottThis book tells a story which until now has not been available in such an interesting and comprehensive form. What holds these people together? Why are they growing in number? Where do they live? The Old Order Mennonites are less well known than the Amish, but are similar in many beliefs and practices. Some Old Order Mennonites drive horses and buggies. Others use cars for transportation. Conservative Mennonite groups vary a great deal, but in general espouse strong faith and family life and believe that how they live should distinguish them from the larger society around them. The author details courtship and wedding practices, methods of worship, dress, transportation, and vocation. Never before has there been such an inside account of these people and their lives. The author spent years conferring and interviewing members of the various groups, trying to portray their history and their story in a fair and accurate manner. An enjoyable, educational, inspiring book.
Introduction To The Old Testament: Sacred Texts And Imperial Contexts Of The Hebrew Bible
by David M. CarrThis comprehensive, introductory textbook is unique in exploring the emergence of the Hebrew Bible in the broader context of world history. It particularly focuses on the influence of pre-Roman empires, empowering students with a richer understanding of Old Testament historiography. <P><P>Provides a historical context for students learning about the development and changing interpretations of biblical texts <P><P>Examines how these early stories were variously shaped by interaction with the Mesopotamian and Egyptian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, and Hellenistic empires <P><P>Incorporates recent research on the formation of the Pentateuch <P><P>Reveals how key biblical texts came to be interpreted by Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths Includes numerous student-friendly features, such as study questions, review sections, bibliographies, timelines, and illustrations and photos
Introduction to Old Testament Theology: A Canonical Approach
by John H. SailhamerThe author's purpose for Introduction to Old Testament Theology is to show how different approaches to the Old Testament can be brought together into a single theology. The author develops his own distinctive approach which he calls canonical theology.
Introduction to Pastoral Counseling
by Loren TownsendGrounded in empirical research and richly illustrated with case studies, this introduction continues the theoretical, practical, and theological expansion of Pastoral Care and Counseling. Because of increasing cultural diversity and the fact that more training is done outside of seminaries in non-seminary related colleges and universities, there is fragmentation in the discipline. This makes a coherent orientation to pastoral care and counseling as a ministry increasingly difficult. To address this confusion, author, Loren Townsend, calls us to readdress basic understandings. He also makes the case that pastoral identity can function as a unifying concept.
Introduction to Pastoral Counseling
by Loren TownsendAn in-depth look at who pastoral caregivers are, what they do, and how and why they do it
Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine
by Zenas BicketIntroduction To Pentecostal Doctrine an independent study textbook by Global University's Berean School of the Bible
An Introduction to Pentecostalism
by Allan Heaton AndersonPentecostalism has become the fastest growing Christian movement, particularly outside Europe, and Allan Heaton Anderson is one of the foremost scholars of this phenomenon. His innovative interpretation of Pentecostalism focuses on the serious contribution made by both western and Majority World participants in its development. In this second edition of his leading introductory course book, Anderson presents an updated global history of the movement, which addresses significant events and changes in recent years, and surveys important theoretical issues such as gender and society, as well as politics and economics. The book also offers a comprehensive explanation of the significance of Charismatic Christianity throughout the world, plus its effect upon the globalisation of religion and its transformation in the present century. This new edition will be an important resource for those studying Pentecostalism, Charismatic Christianity, theology and sociology of religion.
Introduction to Philosophy: Christianity and the Big Questions
by Steve Wilkens Alan G. PadgettAsking "big questions" is fundamental to our humanity. What is the meaning and purpose of life? What is truth? How do we know what we claim to know? What is justice? What happens after death? Veteran teachers Steve Wilkens and Alan Padgett guide readers to wrestle with twelve of the most foundational, philosophical questions facing humanity, and they reflect on these big questions with a lens rooted in faith. Christians, according to Wilkens and Padgett, should embrace their ability to probe these questions that have occupied some of the most brilliant minds in history. Instead of avoiding hard questions, a Christian approach to philosophy begins with the conviction that God invested humanity with a restless mind. From an early age, we are riddled with curiosity about the world, our place in it, and how the whole of it fits together. <p><p>As Wilkens and Padgett show, questions about the inner world of our being are tied to the outer world which includes the entire created cosmos and God. Like all good gifts, the gift of questions comes with a challenge--of responsibility and hard thinking. We have a spiritual duty to pursue life's deepest queries with virtue, fairness, reason, and, above all, a sense of worship and gratitude. Introduction to Philosophy: Christianity and the Big Questions is a perfect primer for students of philosophy and anyone interested in a Christian perspective on the timeless and universal perplexities of human existence.
Introduction to Philosophy of Religion: Readings
by James KellenbergerUsing various and competing religious sensibilities, Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion helps students work through the traditional material and their own religious questions.
Introduction to Political Science: A Christian Perspective
by Fred Van GeestIntroduction to Political Science: A Christian Perspective IVP Instructor Resources forthcoming.
Introduction To Religious Studies
by Paul Myhre Bernadette McNary-Zak Dianne Oliver S. Brent Plate David C. Ratke S. Brian Stratton A. K. M. Adam Swasti Bhattacharyya Daniel Deffenbaugh Darlene Fozard Weaver Jack Hill Kendra G. Hotz Karl Jacobson Debra MajeedFilling the need for a clear, solid overview to introduction to religious studies courses, this text is neither too broad nor too narrow. Chapters explore what religion is and how it is formed and studied; religious experience; truth claims; ethics and moral theology; violence and religion; social involvement; religion and the environment; asceticism and mysticism; religion, technology, and science; religions and their words, stories, writings, and books; and more. The text respects cultural considerations and the contemporary global climate in showing religious studies in action and exploring questions of theory, method, and research. The contributing authors are in tune with college students' interests and are well suited to address the issues and methods of religious studies. Designed for college students taking their first course in the study of religion, such as introduction to religious studies and world religions.
Introduction to Russian Mennonites: A Story Of Flights And Resettlements-- To Homelands In The Ukraine, The Chaco, T
by Wally KroekerMennonites in Russia? Invited by Catherine the Great to farm the Russian steppes -- in exchange for exemption from military service -- Mennonite emigrants from Polish Prussia and The Netherlands made their home in Russia. Some remain today; many more eventually left for North and South Americas and Europe. Nearly all retain memories and stories from that place -- unbelievable prosperity for some; unspeakable terror for many; church tensions; struggles between the landed and the landless; exquisite clockmaking, storytelling, musicmaking, and food. Himself a Russian Mennonite, Kroeker heads into the history, but also the later movement of these people to the U.S. and Canada. Are they at all distinctive today? What has drawn some to the cities and professions, and others to the rural prairies? What about those in Europe, and those still in the former Soviet Union? Kroeker tells it all with vibrancy -- the overview and the memorable details. Includes dozens of historic and contemporary photographs.Skyhorse Publishing, as well as our Arcade imprint, are proud to publish a broad range of books for readers interested in history--books about World War II, the Third Reich, Hitler and his henchmen, the JFK assassination, conspiracies, the American Civil War, the American Revolution, gladiators, Vikings, ancient Rome, medieval times, the old West, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.
An Introduction to Said Nursi: Life, Thought, and Writings
by Ian S. Markham Suendam Birinci PirimContemporary Islamic thinkers are often studied sociologically rather than as theologians. There are many accessible introductions to Christian theologians, but very few such studies of Islamic thinkers. This book, and this series, seeks to change this situation: offering new introductions to influential Islamic thinkers and engaging, at the level of ideas, with the rich depths of contemporary Islamic theology. This book introduces to the English-speaking world the leading modern Islamic thinker Said Nursi (1878-1960) - who has some nine million followers in modern day Turkey and around the world. After an opening chapter that provides an overview of his life, the next four chapters outline the theology of Nursi on God, the Qur'an, the West and Politics. The final section provides an invaluable resource of readings from Nursi's most important writings. Providing an introduction to a major form of Islam which is committed to non-violence, dialogue and constructive relationships with the West, this is the first student textbook to introduce a contemporary Islamic theologian in a systematic way.
Introduction to St. Thomas Aquinas
by Anton C. Pegis St. Thomas AquinasThe comparatively short life of St. Thomas Aquinas covers the second and third quarters of the thirteenth century. At the beginning of his life, Greek and Arabian philosophy was just entering the Latin world; three years after his death, the large-scale condemnation of Aristotelianism in Paris by Bishop Stephen Tempier signalized what turned out to be a defeat for Christian thinkers in the presence of Greek and Arabian philosophers, Platonists and Aristotelians
Introduction to Sufi Doctrine
by Titus BurckhardtTitus Burckhardt's masterpiece, Introduction to Sufi Doctrine, explores the essence of Islamic mysticism, or Sufism, presenting its central doctrines and methods to a Western audience in a highly intelligible form.
An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hindu Theology (Introduction to Religion)
by Swami ParamtattvadasSince its inception over two hundred years ago, Swaminarayan Hinduism has flourished into a transnational movement described as one of the fastest growing Hindu groups in the world. Despite being one of the largest and most visible Hindu traditions both in India and the West, surprisingly little is known about what the Swaminarayan fellowship believes. An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hindu Theology provides a comprehensive doctrinal account of the Swaminarayan tradition's belief system, drawing on its rich corpus of theological literature, including the teachings of Swaminarayan himself and classical commentaries on canonical Vedāntic texts. Part I delineates the sources and tools of Swaminarayan Hindu theology, while Part II systematically expounds upon its distinctive five eternal entities - Parabrahman, Akṣarabrahman, māyā, īśvara and jīva - and mukti (spiritual liberation). In presenting these key themes theologically and lucidly, Swami Paramtattvadas makes the Swaminarayan Hindu belief system intelligible to scholars, students and serious readers.
An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism (Introduction to Religion)
by Raymond Brady WilliamsAn Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism, third edition, offers a comprehensive study of a contemporary form of Hinduism. Begun as a revival and reform movement in India 200 years ago, it has now become one of the fastest growing and most prominent forms of Hinduism. The Swaminarayan Hindu transnational network of temples and institutions is expanding in India, East Africa, the UK, USA, Australasia, and in other African and Asian cities. The devotion, rituals, and discipline taught by its founder, Sahajanand Swami (1781–1830) and elaborated by current leaders in major festivals, diverse media, and over the Internet, help preserve ethnic and religious identity in many modern cultural and political contexts. Swaminarayan Hinduism, here described through its history, divisions, leaders, theology and practices, provides valuable case studies of contemporary Hinduism, religion, migrants, and transnationalism. This new edition includes up-to-date information about growth, geographic expansion, leadership transitions, and impact of Swaminarayan institutions in India and abroad.
Introduction to Symbolic Logic and Its Applications
by Rudolf CarnapA clear, comprehensive, and rigorous treatment develops the subject from elementary concepts to the construction and analysis of relatively complex logical languages. It then considers the application of symbolic logic to the clarification and axiomatization of theories in mathematics, physics, and biology. Hundreds of problems, examples, and exercises. 1958 edition.
Introduction to Takaful: Theory and Practice
by Adnan Malik Karim UllahThis book provides a comprehensive account of the theory and practice of takaful, which is an Islamic alternative to insurance. The concepts are explained using real-life case studies, calculations, and exhibits to aid in reader learning and reflection. Takaful, both as an academic subject and as well as practice, is growing particularly in the world leading financial and learning hubs such as in the UK and the USA and countries with large Muslim populations in Asia, Africa, and Middle East.
Introduction to Tantra
by Lama Thubten YesheWhat is tantra? Who is qualified to practice it? How should it be practiced? What are the results? According to Buddhism, every human being has the potential to achieve profound and lasting happiness. And according to the tantric teachings of Buddhism, this remarkable transformation can be realized very quickly if we utilize all aspects of our human energy - especially the energy of our desires. Introduction to Tantra is the best available clarification of a subject that is often misunderstood. This new edition of this classic text includes a new foreword by Philip Glass and a new cover design, but leaves untouched Lama Yeshe's excellent original text, edited by Jonathan Landaw. Tantra recognizes that the powerful energy aroused by our desire is an indispensable resource for the spiritual path. It is precisely because our lives are so inseparably linked with desire that we must make use of desire's tremendous energy not just for pleasure, but to transform our lives. Lama Yeshe presents tantra as a practice leading to joy and self-discovery, with a vision of reality that is simple, clear, and extremely relevant to twenty-first century life.