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40 Days of Doubt: Devotions for the Skeptic
by Eric Huffman"Faith is permitting ourselves to be seized by the things we do not see." --Martin LutherDo you ever wonder whether you’re really a Christian and cling to what’s left of your faith when you feel like an outsider — even among other believers.Have you ever doubted your faith? Have you ever, deep down in your heart, doubted that God was really present in your life? Or wondered whether everything you believed in as a Christian was false?Call it existential doubt. Call it "the dark night of the soul," as one Christian saint famously did. Whatever you call it, it’s real. It is personal, it is painful, it is distressing, and it can last for years? maybe even a lifetime. But you are not alone.40 Days of Doubt: Devotions for the Skeptic is for all those sports-talk listening, eye-rolling, Game-of-Thrones-loving, abnormal believers out there. If you’ve ever felt that your mind and soul were fighting, you’ll find solace in these awe and wonder-filled reflections by pastor and author Eric Huffman. This devotional helps us understand how we can cope with our questions, and provides insightful answers during our times of doubt.Product Features: Shares 40 devotionals on life and faith. Explores questions readers may be asking about their faith. Offers guidance for those wanting candid insight about Christianity.Weekly Study Guides available at www.EricHuffman.org/books."Real. Bible. Wisdom. Eric Huffman’s 40 days (with a bonus 41st day!) of meditations on life’s problems, opportunities and meanings is real, honest, biblically sound and wise. His sometimes edgy and direct testimony is inspirational and connects with our best and worst experiences. Buy it, then read it."Scott Jones, co-author of Ask, Faith Questions in a Skeptical Age"40 Days of Doubt is a cleverly constructed book that gives doubters space to (re)consider the fundamental claims of God over their lives. Well written with a very readable style Eric charts a path to a well-considered faith." Alan and Debra Hirsch, Missional Leaders, Authors and Speakers."As a recovering pastor, I confess I went through my own season of eye-rolling cynicism about church, religion and Christians. 40 Days of Doubt provides space to consider real questions for agnostics, skeptics, and just burned-out Christians who are tired of trite answers." Tim Stevens, Author of Marked By Love: A Dare To Walk Away from Judgment and HypocrisyReading 40 Days of Doubt feels like I am having a frank and straightforward conversation about all the things that stand in the way of giving one’s whole heart and life to following Jesus. With each issue Huffman addresses, he chooses not to pull any punches about how the culture of "me" is often the real impediment to faith, and how the obstacles are often not the message, but the way the church fails to live it out. You may agree with him or disagree with him, but he will make you think as he peels back the layers of rhetoric and gets at the heart of the issue. If you are someone who wants to believe but can’t quite get there, 40 Days of Doubt may be just the ticket. Tom Pace, Senior Pastor, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Houston
Worshiping in the Small Membership Church (Ministry In The Small Membership Church Ser.)
by Robin Knowles WallaceOffers pastors new inspiration and fresh worship encounters with God.Worship is the most important time in the life of the gathered faithful. Inspirational and accessible, this book is will help pastors and worship leaders fully ground worship in scripture and tradition while being responsive to current times.Included: practical worship helps for the Christian year, tips to involve the congregation in leadership and participation, ways to incorporate music and other arts in worship, and select ideas for congregations of up to one hundred.A sample basic worship library
The Power of a Story: It Inspires, Surprises and Lifts Your Faith
by James W. MooreIn this book, popular author James W. Moore talks about the power of a story, such as those told by Jesus in the Bible. The author recalls, "I would be sitting there in the sanctuary of our church, doing what young boys do in church, drawing pictures on the back of the bulletin, working puzzles, looking constantly at Granny’s watch, wishing the seconds hand would move faster, daydreaming about sports, kicking my feet in the air impatiently, counting the organ pipes . . . And then, the preacher would start telling a story, and I was hooked. He had my full attention. I couldn’t wait to hear the story!" Jesus knew the importance of telling stories to convey a message or a Biblical truth and used this technique often when speaking or ministering to others throughout the Bible in the form of parables. Stories are a natural way to give detail and perspective while teaching an important point.
Liberating Black Church History: Making It Plain
by Juan M. Floyd-ThomasNo serious scholar in biblical studies today can introduce students to his or her field without taking into account the contributions of African American scholarship. The long traditions of biblical interpretation in the Black Church, and the innovative research and writing performed by African American scholars in recent years are now essential components of a critical study of the Bible.Up to now, knowing how best to introduce the fruits of African American biblical scholarship to students has been difficult. Good resources exist, yet too often they are not written with the needs of introductory students in mind. This book meets that need by providing an overview of the most important developments in African American approaches to biblical scholarship. It offers insight into the particular ways that African American scholarship has shaped the world of biblical study.
Change the World: Daily Inspiration to Make a Difference
by Mike SlaughterEverybody wants to change the world, and it all starts with a changed heart. As we grow closer to the heart of Christ, we learn to love others the way he did. Passion for justice and desire to serve flows naturally from a faith centered on the message and mission of Jesus: to bring good news to the poor, release to the captive, and sight to the blind. Grow in world-changing faith with six weeks of inspiring, challenging meditations by Mike Slaughter. Weekly themes:1. Hearing Christ’s Call2. Loving God’s People3. Becoming a Disciple4. Living Simply5. Spreading the Word6. Serving Courageously
All Creation Sings: The Voice of God in Nature (Abingdon Press)
by J. Ellsworth KalasJ. Ellsworth Kalas, adapted from chapter 1:There’s an old hymn you may be familiar with that contains these words: “This is my Father’s world, / And to my listening ears, / All nature sings, and round me rings / The music of the spheres. / This is my Father’s world, / He shines in all that’s fair; / In the rustling grass, I hear him pass, / He speaks to me everywhere” (Maltbie D. Babcock, “This Is My Father’s World”; 1901). It is true still today that “all nature sings,” but it is increasingly difficult to catch the melody. Almost anywhere we go, nature’s voice is now muted by the sound of traffic and assorted electronic devices. Those who go out to walk or jog are likely to wear a device that keeps them in touch with news or music or speech—so that, intentionally or not, they have shut out nature’s sound and dulled its influence.Which brings me to the point of this book. I rejoice greatly in the “green” movement that has made new millions conscious of the wonder of our creation and the blessed necessity of caring for it passionately. This is a magnificent step in the right direction, and it puts quality content into what might otherwise be little more than sentimental feelings. But I want us to go farther than that. I want us not simply to see—and indeed, to be grateful for—the wonders of nature. I want us to go beyond nature’s exquisite beauty until we learn some of the lessons it would teach us, lessons about both life and God. When nature sings (as it does every moment) its melody draws us to God, if only we listen with our whole being. This book will contain a discussion guide.
Stepping Aside, Moving Ahead: Spiritual and Practical Wisdom for Clergy Retirement
by Steve HarperFor clergy, retirement is an opportunity—and a matter of the soul.The topic of retirement is critical for an increasing number of clergy, but it is often ignored—something many clergy would rather not think about. After decades of leadership, retirement can seem more like an obstacle—or even like oblivion—than an opportunity. Stepping Aside, Moving Ahead offers guidance for any clergyperson within a decade of retirement. Author Steve Harper writes in the form of letters to a fictitious "every-pastor." Through these compassionate and instructive letters, the author dialogues with clergy who are just beginning to think about what retirement might bring and with those who stand on the brink of it. He guides the reader through the entire process of planning for retirement: from the initial questions about timing, to financial and other practical concerns, to issues of call and legacy, and more. Steve Harper’s wise counsel and pastoral voice is just what clergy need."Retirement is a spiritual question for pastors. Having answered the call of God to lifetime ministry, how does a pastor assume the role of a retiree? Steve Harper answers the question with spiritual insights and practical suggestions that affirm retirement as a chapter in God’s call leading us to new depths of understanding in renewal and new heights of joy in redeployment." —David McKenna, President Emeritus, Asbury Theological Seminary, Wilmore, KY"Stepping Aside, Moving Ahead offers theological, personal, and practical advice for anyone who is considering or who is already in retirement. Harper includes a comprehensive spectrum of the issues around clergy retirement. His message is clear: there is abundant life after retirement. This book should be given to every clergy at preretirement seminars in order to prepare servant leaders for this fruitful chapter in their lives." —Peggy A. Johnson, Bishop, Philadelphia Area, UMC"This book is an excellent tool for boomers and clergy ... who see greatsignificance in living our legacy of love and faith as we mentorothers!" --Clayton L. Smith, Executive Pastor, United Methodist Churchof the Resurrection
Seven Things John Wesley Expected Us to Do for Kids
by Christopher Miles RitterAn encouraging gift book that reinforces the Wesleyan DNA of being passionate and purposeful in ministry with children. It uses John Wesley’s instructions to Methodist preachers found in the "Large Minutes" as an outline of what he expected Methodists to do for kids: Teach Them Intentionally Know Them Personally Pray for Them Intentionally Mentor Families Meaningfully Challenge Ourselves Continually Shape Our Ministries Appropriately Care for Them Practically
Flow: The Ancient Way to Do Contemporary Worship
by Lester RuthIs there a way to do the prescribed or suggested orders of worship from denominational worship resources—such as the United Methodist Book of Worship, Evangelical Lutheran Book of Worship, the Book of Common Worship of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), or the Book of Common Prayer—in a way that feels legitimately and authentically contemporary?This practical, how-to book will help churches plan and implement passionate and invigorating worship. Step by step, author Lester Ruth and contributors Zachary Barnes, Andrew Eastes, Jonathan Ottaway, Adam Perez, Glenn Stallsmith and Deborah Wong break down the process of re-thinking what the official or recommended order of worship is truly suggesting, so pastors and worship leaders can plan and lead a service of Word and Table that feels genuinely relevant and attuned to the congregation’s culture. With this goal, Flow casts a new, but classic, understanding of traditional worship as well as spurs a reconsideration of how contemporary worship can be done by honoring the traditions of denominational congregations.
Lovin' on Jesus: A Concise History of Contemporary Worship
by Lester Ruth Lim Swee HongSwee Hong Lim and Lester Ruth have filled an important gap in the study of worship. Lovin’ on Jesus: A Concise History of Contemporary Worship is the first scholarly work of its kind on this topic. Lim and Ruth trace the origins and development of what we commonly call contemporary Christian worship, exploring it thoroughly and methodically. Their research includes early recordings and interviews with many who were directly involved in the early stages. The authors were students of James White, and their book is, in a sense, a much-needed addition to White’s classic Introduction to Christian Worship. The thematic structure of Lovin’ on Jesus mirrors that of White’s Introduction, making this book exceedingly useful for students and practitioners in the study of Christian worship as a whole. This is an essential resource for all students, scholars, worship leaders, and pastors who are serious about understanding the worship they lead. "Meticulously researched, accessibly written, generous in its praise, and balanced in its critiques—this is the book for which many of us have long been waiting." —Melanie C. Ross, Assistant Professor of Liturgical Studies, Yale Divinity School, New Haven, CT "Particularly useful for teaching is the way Lim and Ruth organize their account by practices of time, space, music, prayer, technology, and scripture. This will immediately become a required textbook for the courses I teach on Christian worship." —Ed Phillips, Associate Professor of Worship and Liturgical Theology and Coordinator of the Initiative in Religious Practices and Practical Theology, Candler School of Theology, Atlanta, GA"Readers will find Lim and Ruth’s one-of-a-kind history convincing and rigorous. The authors show how a modern genre of Christian worship claimed its place, what it all means, and where it is heading." —Gerald Liu, Assistant Professor of Worship and Preaching, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ "Lovin’ on Jesus is an important book for every pastor, worship leader, and worshipper. This wonderfully prepared study will help you keep your worship experience biblically centered, dynamic, and growing." —Rick Muchow, Founding Worship Pastor, Saddleback Church, worship leader and coach
We Pray with Her: Encouragement for All Women Who Lead
by Shannon Sullivan Emily Peck-McClain Danyelle Trexler J. Paige Boyer Jen TylerLeading while female—whether in business, politics, the home, local communities, or the church—can be incredibly life-giving and spiritually fulfilling, yet lonely and difficult. "We Pray with Her" means supporting all the hers, both established and just starting up the ladder, who are leading the charge in today’s culture. It is a commitment to let them know that they are not alone, and that we are praying with along with them.In a world of glass ceilings, harassment, and "boy’s clubs," women often encounter obstacles when they seek to forge ahead in their work to leave a positive mark through their labor, personal efforts, and causes. Women business leaders, political candidates, clergy, and trailblazers of all kinds need the support and encouragement of their fellow women. We are not intended to walk through life alone, and by raising each other up in prayer we will in-turn be inspired in our own efforts, grow in our faith, be understanding of shortfalls, and celebrate successes along with our fellow women.This inspiring devotional is a collection of 100 entries written by the women of WePrayWithHer, a grassroots movement turned online collective of women faith leaders, explores themes such as call, vocation, persistence, resistance, and struggle. Whether you’re a woman leader looking for personal inspiration, in a supportive role to a leader, an aspiring leader, or a woman who wants to support her sisters in Christ, you’ll find a home within these pages. Join the movement with your prayers, by mentoring, and through daily acts of solidarity with the women in your life and community. In these readings you’ll be emboldened to support one another as we strive to live the life to which God has called us.
Earn. Save. Give. Youth Study Book: Wesley's Simple Rules for Money (Earn. Save. Give.)
by James A. HarnishJohn Wesley believed money was important as a way of expressing andliving out Christian faith. To Wesley, the task was simple: earn all youcan, save all you can, give all you can. In this essential little book,pastor and author James A. Harnish presents Wesley’s concepts andbeliefs in plain, useful language, suitable for individuals to grapplewith and groups to discuss and act upon. The four chapters of this book form the basis for a four-week churchwidestewardship program, along with the DVD, Leader Guide, DevotionalReadings for Home, Youth Study Book, Children’s Leader Guide, and theProgram Guide on flash drive.Everything needed to conduct a 4-week youth study for ages 13-18, aspart of the churchwide stewardship program. The Youth Study Bookincludes participant content as well as leader helps.
God Is With Us: An Advent Study Based on the Revised Common Lectionary (Scriptures for the Church Seasons)
by Robin WilsonMake this year's Advent even more special than usual. Prepare your heart and life for the celebration of God's presence in this season of waiting with God Is With Us, a study of the lectionary Bible readings for Advent and Christmas. By following the lectionary, your study of the Bible and your prayers will be in tune with your pastor's sermon. You'll have a better understanding of the flow of the Scripture readings chosen for the season. Be ready to claim and celebrate the new hope we have in Jesus Christ!God Is With Us is based on the Revised Common Lectionary scriptures for church Year A, the first of a three-year cycle of Bible readings. The study includes commentary and reflection on readings from the Old Testament, the Epistles, and the Gospels. It offers the opportunity to explore these Bible readings in a five-session study.
Gifts of the Dark Wood: Seven Blessings for Soulful Skeptics (and Other Wanderers)
by Eric ElnesHave you left the faith you used to have but don’t know what to move toward? When you can’t see the road ahead, do you feel lost and alone? Do you wish you had a group of companions willing to wander with you?Welcome to the Dark Wood.As you journey through the unknown, you may feel tempted, lost, and uncertain. Though commonly feared and avoided, these feelings of uncertainty can be your greatest assets on this journey because it is in uncertainty that we probe, question, and discover. According to the ancients, you don’t need to be a saint or spiritual master to experience profound awakening and live with God’s presence and guidance. You need only to wander.In clear and lucid prose that combines the heart of a mystic, the soul of a poet, and the mind of a biblical scholar, Dr. Eric Elnes demystifies the seven gifts bestowed in the Dark Wood: the gifts of uncertainty, emptiness, being thunderstruck, getting lost, temptation, disappearing, and the gift of misfits.This is a book for anyone who feels awkward in their search for God, anyone who seeks to find holiness amid their holy mess, and anyone who prefers practicality to piety when it comes to finding their place in this world.
Letters to Karen: A Father's Advice On Keeping Love in Marriage
by Charlie W.SheddEvery bride wants her father's blessing and to have the wisdom that comes from more than forty years of happy marriage.In this classic book, a father writes letters of love, encouragement, and advice to his newly engaged daughter. In his letters are the hopes and dreams that all parents share for their children as they begin a new chapter of their lives.Beloved for its thoughtfulness and insight, the advice found in Letters to Karen is a sound and relevant today as when it was originally written in 1965.
Half Truths Leader Guide: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves and Other Things the Bible Doesn't Say (Half Truths)
by Adam HamiltonThey are simple phrases. They sound Christian—like something youmight find in the Bible. We’ve all heard these words. Maybe we’ve saidthem. They capture some element of truth, yet they miss the point inimportant ways.Join Adam Hamilton in this 5-week Bible study to search for the wholetruth by comparing common Christian clichés with the wisdom found inScripture. The clichés include: Everything happens for a reason. God helps those who help themselves. God won’t give you more than you can handle. God said it, I believe it, that settles it. Love the sinner, hate the sin.The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the5-week study, including session plans and discussion questions, as wellas multiple format options. The guide centers around the book, videos,and Scripture.
Have You Faith in Christ?: A Bishops Insight into the Historic Questions Asked of Those Seeking Admission into Full Connection in The United Methodist Church.
by Ernest S. LyghtJohn Wesley taught his followers to ask questions. New Christians were placed in small classes where they were queried weekly about their progress in the Christian journey: how it is with your soul, are you making progress, are you going on to a perfection of love in the walk with Christ? Christian spirituality can only be understood and experienced within community. And within that community, those designated to lead have a profound responsibility to clarify with believers the nature and purpose God has for them in life.In this book, Bishop Lyght draws attention to another set of questions originating in John Wesley's Historic Examination for Admission into Full Connection. These 19 questions are asked of candidates desiring to be ordained into the ministry of the church and must be answered to the satisfaction of the bishop prior to the bishop laying on hands and bestowing the spiritual gift of ordination.
The Medieval Church: From the Dawn of the Middle Ages to the Eve of the Reformation
by Carl A. VolzWhy does one's concept of the medieval church have a direct bearing on one's attitude toward ecumenism? How was Europe evangelized? Why is it essential to understand the different relationships of church-to-state between the West and Byzantium in order to understand the church's role in Eastern culture today? What common practices of public worship and personal piety have their roots in the medieval church? The Medieval Church: From the Dawn of the Middle Ages to the Eve of the Reformation addresses these questions and many more to demonstrate the pervasive influence of the past on modern piety, practice, and beliefs. For many years the Medieval period of church history has been ignored or denigrated as being the "dark ages," an attitude fostered by Enlightenment assumptions. Yet not only does this millennium provide a bridge to the early church, it created modern Europe and its nations, institutions, and the concept of Christendom as well. The Medieval Church, written in an easily accessible style, introduces the reader to the fascinating interplay of authority and dissent, the birth and development of doctrinal beliefs, the spirituality of the common person, and the enduring allure of Christian mysticism. The Medieval Church is a companion to The Early Church: Origins to the Dawn of the Middle Ages by E. Glenn Hinson and The Modern Church: From the Dawn of the Reformation to the Eve of the Third Millennium by Glenn Miller.
You Are My People: An Introduction to Prophetic Literature
by Louis Stulman Hyun Chul KimBuilding on recent developments in biblical studies, this book introduces the prophetic literature of the Old Testament against the background of today's postmodern context and crisis of meaning. Pulsating with anxiety over the empire--Assyrian, Babylonian, and Persian--the prophet corpus is a disturbing cultural expression of lament and chaos. Danger, disjunction, and disaster bubble beneath the surface of virtually every prophetic text. Sometimes in denial, sometimes in despair, and sometimes in defiance, the readers of this literature find themselves living at the edge of time, immediately before, during, or after the collapse of longstanding symbolic, cultural, and geo-political structures. These written prophecies not only reflect the social location of trauma, but are also a complex response. More specifically, prophetic texts are thick meaning-making maps, tapestries of hope that help at-risk communities survive.
The Best of Will Willimon: Acting Up in Jesus' Name
by William H. WillimonTake the best preacher you’ve ever heard; add in the teacher who first opened your eyes to the excitement and meaning of your favorite subject in school; combine these with that member of the family to whom you could always turn for the best advice; stir them all together, and you’ll get a flavor of the writing of Ellsworth Kalas. And now the very best thoughts and reflections of this wise teacher and guide are available together in one volume.Across his career Ellsworth Kalas has worn many hats: pastor, professor, seminary president. Through all of them, however, he has remained first and foremost an interpreter of God’s Word. His most potent skill is to open up new insights and meanings in even the most familiar biblical stories. Gathered here are some Kalas’s most humorous, touching, and enlightening writings, drawn from his own experience of finding God in Scripture.
Follow You, Follow Me: Why Social Networking is Essential to Ministry
by John VoelzEthical business: Subprime mortgage lendersA healthy meal: Stadium nachosWords of wisdom: TwitterWe don’t often associate social networking with good things. The conventional wisdom, as it were, is that Twitter, Facebook and the like are engaging and fun, maybe dangerous, and definitely a big, shallow waste of time.When it comes to faith, is there any value? Some point to horror stories of illicit behavior simplified by the connections it creates. Others point to its effectiveness as a tool for networking Christians with prayer chains and referrals. But what is really going on here? By now we can acknowledge that social networking is not going away.Maybe you have resisted all social networking, you consider tweeting a frivolous fad and your Facebook account is dusty. Maybe you post several times a day. In either case, do you understand the power and depth of this new medium—in community building, spiritual formation, and yes, even evangelism?
God's Promises That Keep Us
by J. Ellsworth Kalas"In the case of this book, I can tell you not only when it came to birth but also where. It was in a quite modest kitchen at 1506 Center Street in Sioux City, Iowa, over a period of years in the late 1930s. On a shelf in that kitchen, just above the stove, was a box of cards, each measuring roughly one by three inches, each one containing a verse from the Bible. The box was popularly referred to as “precious promises.” I don’t know if that was the name the publisher gave to the collection or if it was the title earnest Christians had given to such verses long before an enterprising publisher organized a specific collection into printed form; I only know how sacred and beloved the box was to my mother and to untold thousands of other persons at that time. The verses covered a wide area of biblical teaching. Many had a quality of admonition and instruction, but the overall mood was one of encouragement. Those who kept such a box in easy reach were sustained by the contents. Some verses took on such personal significance that they were laid aside on top of the box or beside it, to be looked at more often. Mind you, the owner of the box knew such verses by heart, but there was a peculiar strength in looking at the printed form and holding it in one’s hand. And I might add that by the time she took her “promise for the day” she would already have prayed on her knees and have read a longer portion from the Bible. I revered those promises because they meant so much to my parents, especially my mother, and because on several occasions I had seen how uniquely appropriate a particular verse proved to be at a particular time. That Center Street box has now been lost for half a century or more, so I can’t promise that the verses I embrace in this book were all in that box. The Bible verses I’ve included in this book are verses that have blessed me over the years, and I dare to believe that some or all of them will give a lift or a thought to you. Some have become significant to me in times of pain, some in joy. When you read this book, I’m very sure you will think of a verse that is priceless to you, and you’ll wonder why it’s not in this book. The verse may mean so much to you that perhaps you will reprimand me, even if kindly, for not including it. If you do, I’ll understand. I’ll just know that, whether or not you’ve ever seen a box of precious promises, you have discovered that there are promises that keep us. And I will thank God with you that you have found it to be so." (J. Ellsworth Kalas, adapted from the foreword) This book will contain a discussion guide.
Married for Real: Building a Loving, Powerful Life Together
by Tamara George Eddie GeorgeEddie and Tamara George are living the American dream—together. From humble backgrounds, Eddie and Tamara have each risen to national prominence—for Eddie, an award-winning football and broadcasting career, and for Tamara, a rewarding singing and television career—and they believe that their marriage deserves much of the credit. In Married For Real: Building a Loving, Powerful Life Together, Eddie and Tamara draw on their personal stories to guide you to a more successful marriage. Throughout the book, they speak honestly and openly about issues that all couples face—money, sex, power, quality time, faithfulness, and emotional baggage from former relationships. For each situation discussed, Eddie and Tamara give their individual perspective and then, together, address how to deepen your relationship through those obstacles to help you grow as a couple. These are the principles that helped them build a strong, fulfilling relationship—and they can help you, too."Jerome and I thoroughly enjoyed Married for Real. The more we read, the more we appreciated it—and them. In the book, Taj and Eddie allow themselves to be transparent by openly revealing their pasts and showing us what it took to have the happy, healthy marriage they have now. Married For Real is a must read for any individual or couple who wants a fresh relatable perspective on having a meaningful relationship with a strong foundation."—Jerome and Trameka Bettis"Eddie and Taj George are living the American Dream. They are talented and have worked hard. But their staying power comes from the strength of their marriage. Married for Real will help you create a successful partnership as well."—Jeff Fisher, Former Tennessee Titans Head Coach
What Makes a Hero? Youth Study Book: The Death-Defying Ministry of Jesus
by Matt RawleWhat Makes a Hero? offers us an image of what it looks like to be victorious over trials and temptations. Looking at pop culture heroes and others through the lens of faith, Matt Rawle shows how Jesus turned the concept of hero on its head. In keeping with his theme "Pop in Culture," the book examines how good vs. evil, right vs. wrong, and overcoming adversity are fundamental to how Christians understand salvation. Heroes help us discern the good, fight for what’s right, define identity, execute justice, spark revolution, and save lives.Rawle enters the Gospel story to tell quite a different victory story—one obtained through humility, obedience to the cross, and an empty tomb. How does Jesus redefine what it means to be a hero?This Youth Study Book takes the ideas presented in Matt Rawle’s book and interprets them for young people grades 6-12.
El ministerio del cuidado congregacional: The Caring Congregation Minsitry Implementation Guide
by Karen Lampe Melissa Collier GepfordAprenda a desarrollar, implementar y sostener un ministerio de cuidado congregacional en su iglesia, sin importar el tamaño, su forma o a la denominación a la cual pertenezca.Los pastores y líderes de la iglesia realmente quieren cuidar a las personas en sus congregaciones y comunidades. No obstante, ellos no pueden cuidar a una iglesia por sí solos. Además, la mayoría del liderato laico no tiene la capacitación requerida para ejercer este ministerio de cuidado. El Ministerio del Cuidado Congregacional es un modelo del cuidado de persona a persona, el cual su efectividad ha sido comprobada en iglesias pequeñas y grandes en los EE. UU. Es un ministerio centrado en el servicio del laicado. Estos líderes reciben una capacitación rigurosa, y luego son comisionados para servir como ministros del cuidado congregacional (MCC), para brindar el cuidado en sus congregaciones y comunidades extendidas.Este notable enfoque del cuidado congregacional fue primeramente desarrollado, por la autora, Karen Lampe, junto con su equipo, en la Iglesia Metodista Unida de la Resurrección, en Kansas City. El mismo ha sido probado, refinado y fortalecido, y ahora se está adaptando a todo tipo de contextos congregacionales. Una de las primeras adaptadoras de este modelo fue la coautora, Melissa Gepford, quien desarrolló un Ministerio del Cuidado Congregacional en su iglesia rural. Juntas han creado esta guía, inmensamente práctica, para cualquier pastor/pastora o líder que busque desarrollar un Ministerio del Cuidado Congregacional.Este libro presenta el modelo de ministerio, y explica los cinco pasos esenciales que establecen el fundamento para el ministerio. Es extremadamente práctico, lleno de listas de verificación y otras herramientas para ayudar a los pastores y a otros líderes a comprender (y explicar) esta forma de brindar el cuidado congregacional. El libro también incluye una sección enfocada en el componente vital de este ministerio: el ministro/la ministra del cuidado congregacional, o el/la MCC. Esta sección describe completamente las características de los MCC, tales como: reclutar personas para este ministerio; cómo discernir quiénes son los candidatos idóneos para el ministerio, y cómo llevar a cabo la capacitación de los MCC durante un período de varias semanas. Detalla, además, información importante que los MCC deben saber y los comportamientos y hábitos que deben practicar para ser efectivos en el desempeño del ministerio.Learn to build, launch, and sustain a congregational care ministry in your church–no matter the size, type, or denomination.Pastors and church leaders genuinely want to care for people in their congregations and communities. But pastors cannot care for an entire church, and most laypersons don't have the training to do it. The Caring Congregation Ministry is a model for person-to-person care that's been proven to work in small and large churches across the U.S. It is a laity-centered ministry, where laypersons receive rigorous training and then are commissioned to serve as Congregational Care Ministers, caring for others in their own congregation and their extended community.This remarkable approach to congregational care was first developed by author Karen Lampe and her team at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City. It has been tested, refined, and strengthened, and is now being adapted in all sorts of congregational settings. One early adapter was co-author Melissa Gepford, who launched a Caring Congregation Ministry in her own rural church. Together, they have created this immensely practical guide for any pastor or leader seeking to create a congregational care ministry.This book introduces the ministry model and explains the Five Essentials that form the ministry's foundation. It is extremely practical, full of checklists and other tools to help pastors and other leaders understand (and explain) this way of providing congregational care.The book also includes a section focused on the crucial component of this ministry–the Congregational Care Minister, or CCM. This section fully des