John Knox ranks among the great leaders of the Reformed tradition. In particular, he made significant contributions to this movement as it unfolded in Scotland. In doing so, Knox wore many hats–prophet, pastor, preacher, reformer, statesman, revolutionary, and more. God's Watchman: John Knox's Faith and Vocation attempts to connect these aspects of Knox's life. Being a man of action, these roles come to the forefront. Still, they ...
At a time when pews are not as full as they used to be, many churches are struggling to stay open. But no matter how creative or hard-working, some congregations are unable to revitalize their ministry. Is it time to talk about closing your church? Are there any other options for your future? Toward the Better Country tells the stories of real congregations that have faced a significant downsizing, merger, or closure and found positive ways to ...
Good Sex presents sexual ethics in the light of faith. Speaking on behalf of Christianity, Buss describes «love your neighbor as yourself» as the only Christian «rule»; it is a positive rule rather than one that focuses on prohibitions. Since this call is never fulfilled in practice, it is joined by forgiveness for oneself and others. More concrete guidelines need to be aided by «wisdom,» which is not specifically Christian. Detailed biblical su ...
Communities of Faith is a collection of essays on the multicultural Christian spirit and practices of churches around the world, with particular attention to Africa and the African diaspora. The essays span history, theology, anthropology, ecumenism, and missiology. Readers will be treated to fresh perspectives on African Pentecostal higher education, Pentecostalism and witchcraft in East Africa, Methodist camp meetings in Ghana, Ghanaia ...
Most accounts of Canada and the First World War either ignore or merely mention in passing the churches' experience. Such neglect does not do justice to the remarkable influence of the wartime churches nor to the religious identity of the young Dominion. The churches' support for the war was often wholehearted, but just as often nuanced and critical, shaped by either the classic just war paradigm or pacifism's outright rejection o ...
What if Small Groups Embarked on Mission Together . . . In Their Own Backyards? Whereas small groups have traditionally focused internally, many Christians nowadays are hungering for much more! Seeking to make a difference where they live, Christians desire mission. The Community Group Mission Series focuses eight weeks of training–to launch groups in a dynamic mission trajectory! Each group will engage holistically, sho ...
The First Steps of Your Discipleship Journey . . . Are More Important than You Think! Are you seeking a strong spiritual walk? If you are willing to do some training, this course can get you there! Replicating Jesus's exciting vision, First Steps teaches six key practices to establish your faith and empower your mission! Come journey alongside others to gain a stride that will bless you for the rest of your life! First Step ...
When It Comes to Disciple Making . . . You Get What You Aim For! Because the church grows at the edges, discipling new believers may be one of the most important things you do! Jesus knew this. At the pivotal post-resurrection point, he took the newer-in-faith and synergized a movement. Yet the biblical example and current trends do not match–churches lack consistently in four areas: Aim: They fail to shoot for the new believer' ...
Mark's Gospel ends in an open-ended manner that puzzles many readers. This is part of the evangelist's strategy, so this book maintains; it raises questions about who Jesus is and what it means to follow Jesus. The Gospel writer addresses these two themes as he develops his story of Jesus. Readers are drawn in to consider these themes for themselves. Although there is an open end to the story of the disciples' discipleship, there ...
