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Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross (Savior)
by Magrey deVegaThe cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith. But what exactly did Jesus do to save us from our sins? Why was the cross necessary, and what does it mean for us today?In Savior: What the Bible Says About the Cross, Magrey deVega faithfully describes the need for reconciliation between humankind and a holy God through Jesus’ death on the cross. The Bible uses many images to understand the meaning of Jesus' death and resurrection, and deVega guides us through these images to achieve a richer understanding of the Christian faith. By exploring the mystery of salvation through the cross, we can deepen our love for God and others and strengthen our commitment to follow JesusComponents for this six-session study will include a book, leader guide, and a DVD with videos featuring deVega presenting each chapter's main ideas and themes. The leader guide will include instructions for showing and discussing these videos as an option for the group leader.
I Love Growing Older, But I'll Never Grow Old
by J. Ellsworth KalasGrowing older is a process. Growing old is a conclusion. If you’re growing older you see some hope because you have perspective and you keep learning. If you’ve grown old, you may cynically think that times have never been as bad as they are now, and that they can only get worse." This book is about learning how to "make peace with where you are right now." It’s about learning from the past and then moving past it. It’s about growing—personally, spiritually, and in our relationships with God and with others. If we think properly about growing older we’ll never have to grow old.A discussion guide is included.
Making Room Leader Guide: Sharing the Love of Christmas (Making Room)
by Ed RobbOften our Advent preparations have an inward focus as we prepare for the significance of God breaking into our world through the birth of the Christ child. But in a closer examination of the Advent story, we quickly learn that the focus of the coming of the newborn king is outward.In this book and Advent study, Dr. Ed Robb explores the warmth of welcome at Christmas following interactions with Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi. Just as Jesus made room in God’s kingdom for a host of people that society wanted to leave on the margins, beginning with the appearance of the shepherds, we too should be asking ourselves who we can make room for this Christmas.Perhaps it is to the people in your community, or the newly immigrated family in town that doesn’t speak your language. Or maybe it’s the next-door neighbor who just settled in from yet another corporate move? The story of Christ’s birth encourages us to widen our borders and increase our sense of community—and make room for others.The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the four-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
An Evangelical Theology of Preaching
by Donald EnglishBy exploring the biblical basis for preaching, Donald English shows how fundamental theological issues pertain to the proclamation of the Word. He provides a theological basis for preaching, practical insights regarding the movement from text to sermon, and practical guidance in preparing for Sunday worship.
The United Methodist Music & Worship Planner 2019-2020 CEB Edition
by David L. Bone Mary ScifresAn all-in-one resource that helps both the music director and pastor plan the worship services for each Sunday and holy day of the year, The United Methodist Music and Worship Planner 2019-2020 is lectionary-based and places at your fingertips: Weekly pages in spiral-bound format that help you plan the entire worship year, from September through August. Eight or more suggested hymns for each service keyed to United Methodist worship resources: The United Methodist Hymnal, The Faith We Sing, Worship & Song, The United Methodist Book of Worship, and The Africana Hymnal. Complete lectionary text of the Old Testament, Psalm, Epistle, and Gospel readings using the Common English Bible translation. Reproducible worship planning forms. Resources for holidays and special days. Suggestions for prayers, solos, anthems, visuals, and much more. Also available with NRSV texts
Journeys with Celtic Christians Leader Guide
by Rodney Newman"The early Christians of Ireland developed an expression of the faith characterized by deep devotion and fascinating stories," Newman said. "It offers rich insights for modern issues such as promoting a caring society, relating to the natural world and welcoming strangers." Writers often use the metaphor of journey or pilgrimage to describe the Christian life. What distinguishes this book and its development of that theme is its invitation to readers to experience their personal faith journeys through Celtic lenses. Pilgrimage is part of the DNA of Celtic Christians. The faith spread and flourished in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Northern England between the 5th and 11th centuries because saints like Patrick, Brigid, and Columba traveled extensively, preaching, teaching, and founding monasteries. Soon small groups of Christians began to go out from these locations and begin new Christian communities. By connecting historical information with their current lives and concerns, readers will be encouraged to consider the many ways pilgrimage has shaped their personal faith. They will discover the value and contributions of fellow travelers on the faith journey and how they assist and shape that journey. By recalling how Celtic Christians celebrated and marked significant moments in their lives of faith, readers will discover ways they can develop this practice. They will affirm the importance of both offering and receiving hospitality on the faith journey, a discipline that was critical to the Celts. They will also have opportunities to deal with difficult life journeys such as transitions and opportunities for forgiveness, and the importance of blessing one another in a world that values polarization over cooperation and competition over community. With an introduction that sets the tone and introduces the theme and six chapters related to distinctives of Celtic Christianity, this book is ideal for small groups whose members want to grow together in their spiritual understandings and commitments. The Leader Guide is designed to help lead small groups. It includes questions for reflection and additional prompts aimed to guide both personal contemplation and group discussion.
Powerful Persuasion: Multimedia Witness in Christian Worship
by Prof. Tex SampleWhen it comes to communicating the gospel through new media and technologies, churches are often faced with one of two bad options. Either they can reject these new vehicles for sharing the faith as “not the way we’ve always done it”; or they can uncritically embrace them, failing to see that when not understood properly these media can obscure the gospel message just as much as they can communicate it. If they are going to reach the generations formed by electronic culture, churches must engage in a new evangelism, one that makes use of new technologies and cultural expressions. Sample explains how the electronic generations receive and process the information communicated by new media, and how the ways in which our consumerist culture makes use of those media are not good models for how the church can employ them to spread the message of Jesus Christ.Read the Introduction now!
Immersion Bible Studies: 1 And 2 Corinthians
by Rev James L. EvansJourney inside the pages of Scripture to meet a personal God who enters individual lives and begins a creative work from the inside out. Shaped with the individual in mind, Immersion encourages simultaneous engagement both with the Word of God and with the God of the Word to become a new creation in Christ. Immersion, inspired by a fresh translation--the Common English Bible--stands firmly on Scripture and helps readers explore the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs of their personal faith. More importantly, they’ll be able to discover God’s revelation through readings and reflections.
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.