Who is in control? The sustained threat from rogue states, international terrorism, religious extremists, and moral confusion arising from liberal views of all kinds begs the question: what is happening to our world? Is no-one in control? This is a deep vulnerability that many people express. And not simply in global events. Our own personal world often seems out of control as we reel from suffering, family tragedies and unanswered prayers. The prophet Habakkuk knew that God was in control but, like us, his personal experience seemed to contradict this and he wrestled with the tension. This book is a dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk confronts God with his confusion and, in doing so, he expresses the voice of the godly in Judah and he speaks for us. We join in the journey from 'why?' to worship.

Learning to Believe Again guides people back to healing, hope, and belief by tackling some of the harder topics in the Bible in relation to healing from trauma, including: forgiveness, how to deal with abusive people, God's unfailing love, and regaining self-worth, among other topics. At some point in their life, most people face a trauma or harrowing loss that leaves them questioning God's presence, love, and protection. In the US alone, 1 in 3 people have experienced some form of domestic abuse, and an estimated 8 percent of Americans suffer from PTSD. Brittany Bexton takes readers on a 30-day devotional journey through the healing process, beginning with devotionals that address brokenness and loss. She then moves into days that address the challenges of trauma and abuse, providing practical, Biblical tools for healing and changing mindsets, before focusing on breakthroughs experienced through life's journey. Each day includes a plethora of supporting scriptures, as well as space for readers to journal. Designed to either be an easy, bedside reader with digestible thoughts for the day or a tool for deeper Bible study, Learning to Believe Again offers hope for continued healing, restoration, and growth.

If your students have ever heard the story of Job, they are likely to remember one thing---suffering. (Well, they might remember a pile of cow dung, but they re teenagers ) While suffering is a prevalent theme in Job, the stories inside this book also provide readers with truth and wisdom about a just and loving God who walks with us in the midst of an unjust world. Every human being---Christ follower or not---has asked, Why does God allow suffering? We all know that there are no easy answers to that question. But as you take the book and story of Job piece by piece, you ll be able to guide students towards a better understanding of this God who can be so difficult to comprehend. Through the twelve sessions, you ll help your students face some of the tougher issues of life, like: * The relationship between sin and suffering * How to be a friend to those who are suffering (and how not to be ) * Why don t the wicked suffer? * How to survive suffering (and let God be God) In the tradition of the best selling Creative Bible Lessons series, CBL in Job presents each session in sections to help you move your students through a sequence of engagement, reflection, learning, and application. Including preparation for leaders, materials lists, discussion starters, scripture lessons, and activities to help personalize the learning, you ll find that any youth worker can use this book to effectively guide students toward the important lessons from Job."

Discover What a Friend You Have in Jesus He's the Savior of the world, the Friend who stands by the sick and brokenhearted. He was perfectly human-and perfectly holy. He heals and empowers. All this and more is uniquely captured in Luke's New Testament Gospel. The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Luke takes you verse-by-verse through Jesus' life and ministry. You will be encouraged and emboldened, just as the early Christians were. The Smart Guide to the Bible is a series of simplified commentaries designed to uncomplicate God's word for everyday Bible readers. Every page contains handy features or learning aids like these: cross-references to other Scriptures brief commentaries from experts points to ponder the big picture of how passages fit with the entire Bible practical tips for applying biblical truths to life simple definitions of key words and concepts interesting maps, charts, and illustrations wrap-ups of each biblical passage study questions Whether you're new to the Bible, a long-time student of Scripture, or somewhere in between, you'll appreciate the many ways The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Luke goes far beyond your typical Bible study tool. The practical, relevant helps on each page lead you to get the most out of God's word.

This book evaluates the relationship between "Samuel" and "Chronicles" in a single synoptic story: David's transfer of Israel's sacred ark to Jerusalem in "2 Samuel 6" and "1 Chronicles 13, 15-16". Chapter one surveys areas of research related to "Samuel" and "Chronicles". Rezetko summarises research and perspectives on these books and their stories of David's ark transfer. The review highlights competing approaches to "Samuel" which center on either sources or composition and on either a diachronic or synchronic methodology. Chapter two surveys issues related to synchronic and diachronic approaches to "Samuel" and "Chronicles". The writer suggests that the impasse between these competing approaches may be resolved by the textual-exegetical approach, that is, by using text-critical controls on redactional arguments.Finally, it is stated that the principal text-critical aim in this book is the detection of earlier and later forms of biblical texts or stories, or to state it differently, the discovery of earlier and later stages in their editorial histories. Using the aforementioned insights and methodologies, chapters three through six closely examine "2 Samuel 6" and the synoptic portions of "1 Chronicles 13, 15-16". All these interconnected adjustments point to successive editorial interventions over a substantial period of time and their cumulative appearance and objective may be labelled a literary layer. The book concludes with observations regarding the implications of the present investigation for the theories of A G Auld.

City houses jammed together, streets filled with risk and danger--yet in this setting are helpful people who can be trusted and a home with an abundance of love. Through poignant images of an urban family's daily life, children experience the comfort and encouragement of this favorite Psalm in a contemporary setting. Full color.

Introduction Part I The Problem of Obedience: Barth on Job Chapter 1 Barth's Job as Both Right and Wrong Chapter 2 Obedience as Self-Examination: Barth on the Story of the Rich Man Part II Does Job Fear God for Naught? A Rereading of Job Chapter 3 The Prose Narrative: Transforming Piety Chapter 4 The Poem 4.1. The Dialogue: Testing Integrity 4.2. The Whirlwind Speeches: Encountering Creation Part III God, Job and Justice Chapter 5 Calling God to Account Chapter 6 An Integrity Beyond the Law Part IV The Disruption and Transformation of the Self Chapter 7 The Problem of Obedience Revisited Chapter 8 Epilogue: Self, Society and World Bibliography

Fresh translation and facing-page annotations bring the compelling wisdom of the Hebrew prophets to life.

Hundreds of commentaries and dozens of Bible translations make the Hebrew prophets available to modern-day readers, but most often these sources focus on history or apologetics, losing the reader who is searching for spiritual insight.

"The Hebrew Prophets: Selections Annotated & Explained" makes the wisdom of these timeless teachers available to readers with no previous knowledge of the prophets. With fresh, contemporary commentary, Rami Shapiro reveals the central themes covered by all the prophets: moving from ignorance to wisdom, injustice to justice, cruelty to compassion, and despair to joy.

This unique look at the Hebrew Prophets sharpens the personal nature of their message and highlights their critique of the spiritual errors we all face in life, challenging readers to correct those errors and experience a life of awakening and joy.

Join author and minister David Murray as he introduces you to Jesus through the lens of the Old Testament. When you think of a son trudging uphill, carrying wood for his own sacrifice because his father has decided to give him up to death, what biblical event does this bring to mind? Is it Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22, or is it Christ's passion in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John? The kinship between these two stories is deeper than mere coincidence, and the similarities don't end there. In fact, Murray argues that Christ isn't just present in the story of Abraham and Isaac--he's present on every page of the Old Testament. In Jesus on Every Page, Dr. Murray guides the reader down his own Road to Emmaus, describing how the Scriptures were opened to him, revealing Jesus from Genesis 1 all the way through Revelation 22. Dr. Murray shares his ten simple ways to seek and find Christ in the Old Testament, diving deep into: Christ's planet--discovering Jesus in the story of Creation Christ's people--discovering Jesus in the characters of the Old Testament Christ's promises--discovering Jesus in the covenants of the Old Testament Recognizing Jesus in the full breadth of scripture is important for every Christian. In this step-by-step guide to discovering Jesus in the Old Testament, Dr. Murray provides a framework that will help you start practicing this wonderful way of enjoying Jesus throughout the Bible. Whether you are preaching Jesus through Old Testament readings or just beginning to discover the reality of Christ in the Old Testament, Jesus on Every Page is an accessible guide to getting to know the Old Testament for what it truly is: full of Jesus.

An introduction reviews previous scholarship, and concludes that the cultic aspects of Judges 17-18 have not been examined in any depth. It then goes on to deal with the historical and redactional issues which previous scholars have found interesting. The issues of provenance and dating are then examined with the conclusion that the text was written down in the immediate aftermath of the Assyrian conquest of Dan in an attempt to preserve its sacred traditions. The text therefore reflects the self-understanding of the priests of Dan in the period immediately prior to its fall. The text of Judges 17-18 is then subjected to a rhetorical critical examination, followed by a more traditional form critical study. The next section is a comparison of similar cultic foundation stories from other cultures. Three major chapters examine the three major cultic issues raised by the text itself: images, priests and divination. Each chapter draws on evidence from the Hebrew Bible and its environment in an attempt to clarify the nature of the cult of Dan. Broadly, each chapter concludes that although there were some features peculiar to the cult reflected by Dan, in general, the Danite cult was not greatly different from that of its neighbours. A final chapter deals with what the text says about the tribe of Levi, with the conclusion that according to Judges 17-18, there was once a secular tribe of Levi. The conclusion draws a brief picture of cultic life in Dan in its final years.

This study claims that Paul uses his personal example as an explicit literary strategy in 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Philippians, and as an arguably implicit strategy in 1 Thessalonians and Philemon. He uses his own example to ground and illustrate his argumentation in a rhetorically sophisticated manner, often structuring his argument on such a basis. In places a crisp statement of his own case serves as a thesis statement of the argument that follows (e.g., Rom. 1.17; Gal. 1.10), while at other times it serves to summarize the argument and to provide a transition to the next phase (especially in 1 Corinthians and Gal. 2.15-21). All the while Paul's self-portrayals in his letters serve not autobiographical or egoistic purposes but pedagogical and argumentative aims.

Was the book of Revelation penned by the crazy uncle in the family of Bible writers? You try to convince yourself that the apostle john is just another New Testament writer kindly, gentle, loving. You know normal. But he s just so weird Most of the time you have no idea what John is talking about in his revelation. When you must interact with his wild, otherworldly book, you escape as soon as you can to familiar, saner Bible texts. Like Matthew s Gospel or one of Paul s letters after all, they straight-up tell you what Jesus did and what you should do Yet Creative Bible Lessons in Revelation will quickly convince you and your students that St. John wasn t so much a crazy guy as he was a visionary, inspirational, and worshipful guy And you don t have to subscribe to any pre- or post-eschatology theory in order to learn all sorts of good stuff from the apostle. So while these 12 sessions complete and ready-to-teach won t help your students identify who the antichrist is or give them the coordinates of Armageddon s opening salvos, they will, however, acquaint your youth group with the mysterious nature of Revelation, then demonstrate how these apocalyptic principles actually provide practical application for us today. Here s what s inside every session: -Detailed overviews for clear, convenient prepping. -Intriguing activities and games-with-a-point that introduce that session s topic. -Hardcore Bible studies and provocative questions that trigger dialogue in both large and small groups. -Application exercises that translate John s visions into practical, attainable actions and attitudes for students daily lives. Plus, you ll get these bonuses: -Let s Get Theological lite intros to the various interpretations of the reactions to the events Revelation predicts -More More More helpful supplements to activities and discussions -Worthy of Worship top-drawer suggestions for turning ordinary youth meetings into extraordinary times of praising God. Questions about the future lurk in everyone s minds especially in the minds of teenagers. Now is your chance to explore the book of Revelation with your students to glimpse at the never-ending worship to come, to grab hold of God s promises and his mercy, and to bring some ease to troubled hearts."

Six-session small group studies to build true community within the church and among the worldParables: Jesus, the wisest man who ever lived, had much to say about God, the human heart, the future, life, anger, love, and everything that mattered. Digging into the treasure trove of the wisdom and truth hidden in his parables will stretch minds, feed souls, pierce hearts, and shape his followers into true disciples.

Delve deeply into God's Word-and God's heart-alongside wisdom from Matthew Henry, one of the most trusted Bible teachers in the history of the church. For more than three centuries, Matthew Henry's work has been consulted and quoted by teachers and students the world over. Now you can have his insights available alongside the trusted New King James version of the Bible in the Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible. Featuring 366 devotions, the Matthew Henry Daily Devotional Bible will help you gain greater understanding and appreciation of Scripture and encounter God's heart every day. Drawn from Henry's enormously popular commentary, his insights paired with Scripture will guide you into a deeper relationship with the Father as you find comfort, knowledge, and wisdom from God's Word. Features include: The complete Bible text in the New King James translation 366 daily devotions tailored to the days reading to easily connect God's Word to your life Line-matched 2-column paragraph format for improved clarity when reading Complete index of devotions allow you to quickly find Scripture based on the day it is read Two satin ribbon markers so you can easily navigate and keep track of where you were reading 8 pages of full-color maps show a visual representation of Israel and other biblical locations for better context 2-color interior design to quickly identify devotionals Words of Christ in red help you quickly identify Jesus' teachings and statements Clear and easy-to-read 10-Point NKJV Comfort Print (R) typeface

Jack Countryman's trademarked God's Wisdom® series and God's Promises® series have sold millions of books over the years. Now he brings his two most popular series together in the ultimate gift book, God's Wisdom and Promises.

This incredibly useful gift book from bestselling author Jack Countryman is composed of topically divided Scriptures that reveal what the Bible says about key experiences and needs in life. Scripture is in the trusted New King James Version of the Bible.

More than 90 important topics include God's guidance on relationships, finances, difficult situations, frightening scenarios, ethical issues, and when a friend needs encouragement, as well as what the Bible says about mercy, loyalty, caring for others, disagreements, faithfulness, and obedience, among many others.

The focus of God's Wisdom and Promises is the grace, love, hope, blessings, and knowledge that God offers His people. While much of the success of the God's Promises series comes from people looking for guidance in times of crisis, God's Wisdom and Promises alsoprovides readers with positive promises to rely on. God's Wisdom and Promises is an easy impulse purchase for anyone needing encouragement or an ideal gift for any occasion.

These sixty short daily reflections, each based on a verse from the Bible, will guide a believer facing serious sickness-and his or her family-to a rock-solid faith and trust in the will of God. With confidence in the healing power of God and the possibility of miracles, the Blumhardts, a father-son team of pastors renowned for their healing ministry, point us away from our troubles and toward a Creator who is supremely wise and good and wants the best for each of us. In a world where medical advances seem to promise a cure for everything, it's tempting to believe that we can live free of pain. But we know that even the best medicine cannot extend life forever or solve the riddles of physical and emotional illness. How, then, to respond to the inevitability of suffering? And how to help those who live in fear of disease to conquer their daily worry about their diagnosis? What better place to turn than to these words of comfort and hope drawn from the Word of God? As Rick Warren writes in his foreword, "the Blumhardts remind us that physical healing is not God's greatest answer to prayer. ...Whatever circumstance you are facing right now, this book of daily readings will help you focus on a closer relationship with Jesus, our one true spiritual healer."

Feasting on the Gospels is a new seven-volume series that follows up on the success of the Feasting on the Word series to provide another unique preaching resource, this time on the most prominent and preached upon New Testament books, the four Gospels. With contributions from a diverse and respected group of scholars and pastors, Feasting on the Gospels will include completely new material that covers every single passage in the New Testament Gospels, making it suitable for both lectionary and non-lectionary use. Moreover, these volumes will incorporate the unique format of Feasting on the Word, with four perspectives for preachers to choose from for each Gospel passage: theological, pastoral, exegetical, and homiletical. Feasting on the Gospels will provide a special resource for all who preach, either continuously or occasionally, on the Gospels.

This year-long daily devotional-designed to strengthen your faith with Bible verses, brief messages, and thoughtful quotes-encourages you to carve out a few minutes of peace in the presence of God. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." -John 14:27 If you feel like you can't get a moment of peace in your hectic life, you aren't alone-but even just five minutes spent with God every day can renew your spirit. With these 365 daily devotionals, you can embark on a year-long process of finding comfort in Him. So today, find a quiet place to open your mind and your heart to the peace of God, which transcends all understanding. BEAUTIFULLY PACKAGED: The gift format and beautiful package will make this appealing to use every day.

"Robert H. Stein has composed an excellent commentary on Mark 1: 1-16: 8. He explains well the purpose and structure of the Gospel, discusses in detail its problematic verses, judiciously selects views of other commentators, and explains why he thinks the Gospel ends at 16: 8. Hence Stein's commentary will be a precious "vade mecum" for pastors and preachers, students of the New Testament, and teachers in biblical studies."--Joseph A. Fitzmyer, SJ, professor emeritus, biblical studies, Catholic University o America, Washington, DC

"Bob Stein has written a great commentary on the Gospel of Mark. It is rich with interpretive insight, yet it is very reader friendly. Scholars, pastors, students, and lay readers will appreciate how Stein tackles difficult questions head-on and presents sensible solutions. Reading this commentary gives the reader a real sense of what the evangelist Mark was trying to say and how his original readers would have understood him. It makes an excellent contribution to the BECNT series."--Craig A. Evans, Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Acadia Divinity College, Nova Scotia

"This comprehensive commentary is the seasoned work of a first-rate, evangelical scholar. The discussions are well informed, and the positions taken are judicious and fair. Anyone working on the Second Gospel will find significant help here, particularly with regard to the theology and purpose of the evangelist."--Klyne Snodgrass, Paul W. Brandel Professor of New Testament Studies, North Park Theological Seminary

For all Sundays, Solemnities, Major Feasts, and Other Occasions Edited by Bishop Peter J. Elliott. This new edition reflects the themes of both Pope John Paul II and the vision of Pope Benedict XVI. The style of the prayers anticipates the dignity, accuracy, and quality of the new ICEL translation of the Roman Missal.

In der jungeren Forschung haben die beiden klassischen Hypothesen einer Aufstiegsgeschichte Davids und einer Thronfolgeerzahlung an UEberzeugungskraft verloren. Damit rucken die Texte in II Sam 1-5 verstarkt in den Blick, denen eine Schlusselstellung fur die literarische Genese der Daviduberlieferung zukommt. Die vorliegende Studie ermittelt einen ersten durchlaufenden und noch vorexilischen Darstellungszusammenhang, der im 7. Jh. v. Chr. entstanden ist. Entsprechend erklart sie das Doppelkoenigtum Davids uber Israel und Juda als eine protodeuteronomistische Grundungsgeschichte der spaten Koenigszeit. Die Untersuchung schliesst mit einer redaktionsgeschichtlichen Skizze der Daviderzahlungen im zweiten Samuelbuch und einer Revision der geschichtlichen Zeugnisse.