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."

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.

Paul's letters are the earliest surviving Christian writings and therefore the earliest documentary evidence for what Jesus' followers knew and said about him. The present volume deals with questions frequently asked about Paul, examines what can be known about Jesus from Paul's letters, and enquires how Paul himself interpreted Jesus' significance. A closing chapter considers how several writers in the Pauline tradition variously continued and altered the apostle's views about Jesus.

The book of Daniel holds the distinction of being one of the most important prophetic books in the Bible-and one of the most challenging to understand. Now you can unearth its inspiring lessons and enduring truths in just 40 daily readings. You'll be amazed to see how prophecies from the sixth century BC are unfolding today. To help you personally interact with the vital truths of Daniel, trusted Bible teacher Ron Rhodes provides... short passages of Daniel with easy-to-understand notes on each verse brief summaries of the most important ideas helpful cross-references on relevant topics practical applications to everyday life thought-provoking conversation starters for group discussions or personal journaling As you see God's faithfulness on display in the lions' den, in the fiery furnace, and in the rise and fall of world empires, you'll gain a deep sense that God is in control.

Emil Bock interprets John's rich pictorial language, which is often found harsh and mysterious, helping the reader understand that John deals with the universal problems of spiritual development. This is not merely a detailed commentary on the Apocalypse but a profound and encouraging examination of human needs in today's world. Bock shows how we can read The Revelation to understand Christ's position as leader through danger, both in the present and in the future.

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 volume investigates the respective theologies of the Letters to the Colossians and the Ephesians, and in so doing provides an accessible introduction to the themes and significance of these New Testament books. A. J. M. Wedderburn examines the background to Colossians, and considers both its readers' situation and that of its author. He asks whether the proponents of the teaching against which this letter is written were Christians, putting forward their views as the true form of Christianity (as in Galatia), or whether they existed outside the Christian community as a seductive alternative to it. Andrew T. Lincoln examines in turn the authorship of Ephesians, and tries to explain the letter's strategy of persuasion and the key elements of its teaching about the new identity of the Christian believer. The similarities and differences between the thought of Ephesians and that of Paul are thereby set out clearly. Both sections of the book reflect on the relevance of these letters for today.

The purpose of this book is to seek a fuller understanding of how the characterisation of Paul in Acts would have been perceived by those who first read or heard the Lucan narrative. As the author makes clear, the careful reader of Acts should be amazed at the way St Paul is portrayed therein. Dr Lentz demonstrates, through a careful examination of particular texts, the great improbability that a Jew of strict Pharisaic background would have held, let alone been proud of, Roman citizenship and citizenship of the city of Tarsus. By investigating the social and legal expectations of the first century, the author shows that Paul is seen to be deferred to in matters of legal minutiae by those in positions of authority. He is given high social status and abundant moral virtue in order to attract to Christianity the high-ranking citizen who would recognise in Paul the classical cardinal virtues.

This study examines one significant theological theme in Luke-Acts, that of the plan of God. It traces the way this theme is developed throughout Luke-Acts, both through direct statements by the writer and through various associated means such as divine appearances, signs and wonders, the fulfilment of prophecy, and indications of fate as of necessity. Dr Squires locates Luke's use of this theme in the context of the history and writing of the Hellenistic period, noting numerous passages in those works which illumine Luke's theological purposes. His book shows how the notion of the plan of God is used by Luke as he writes to confirm his readers' faith, encouraging them to bear witness to this faith, and equipping them for the task of defending it.

The most comprehensive English-language commentary on Daniel in 65 years. Collins situates the Old Testament in its historical context and offers a full explanation of the text, especially its religious imagery.

The author of this lucid and interdisciplinary study of Mark's Gospel believes that - when applied to Gospel texts - sociological analysis and literary criticism may be far closer together in purpose and intent than is often supposed. Professor Camery-Hoggatt therefore begins his work with an exploration of the social functions of narrative in general, and of ironic narrative in particular. He then turns to the literary functions of the internal elements of the narrative, and draws the two discussions together into a single framework that can be used as a lens through which Mark's Gospel can be read. The author's claim is that irony - especially dramatic irony - thoroughly permeates the Gospel, and that this evinces a rhetorical strategy central to Mark's whole narrative. The second half of the book shows that the presence of irony is especially powerful when the deeper level of meaning is somehow hidden from the story's characters.

In the book of Acts, the so-called Western text departs from the alternative text in numerous points of detail. These divergences in the textual tradition of Acts have been the subject of renewed interest in recent years, with a notable concentration on Lucan traits in the Western text. The author of this study takes into account recent theories which have been proposed on the textual tradition of Acts, and puts forward an ingenious thesis (not considered hitherto) to explain the existence of two streams of textual tradition for the book. Analysis of a number of Western textual variants in Acts suggests that they may have arisen from the incorporation of marginal annotations into the text of Acts, but Lucan thought and language is indeed characteristic of these readings. Investigation of the non-Western textual tradition uncovers occasional signs of editing according to the interests of the second-century church. From this evidence Dr Strange proposes that Acts shared the fate of numerous other works of antiquity by being published posthumously; the work of two second-century editors is responsible for the remarkable divergence in the textual tradition of Acts.

Six prophets from a wide area and centuries apart combine to bring us clear messages of warning and hope.

52 readings, each with a scripture passage and prayer, from one of our most loved and respected Christian leaders and speakers. Each reading contains a story, often startling and arresting, from Andrew's astonishingly eventful ministry, blended with his reflections on life and faith.

Are you a Catholic mom who prays for the wisdom and patience to get through each day? Do you pray for your children, husband, family and friends, and sometimes even yourself? For more than fifteen years, the award-winning CatholicMom.com website has been a trusted source for sound, practical, and spiritual guidance. Here, authors Lisa M. Hendey and Sarah A. Reinhard bring together more than eighty moms, dads, and trusted spiritual companions to provide fresh, uplifting meditations for every day of the year. You'll find encouragement when you're struggling, reassurance when you feel alone, and comfort when you're distracted by worry. Each day begins with a brief quotation from scripture, saints, recent popes, or important spiritual writers. A personal reflection - written by contributors including Danielle Bean, Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, Lisa Mladinich, Elizabeth Scalia, Carolyn Woo, Mark Hart, and Jeff Young - focuses on some dimension of your spiritual, emotional, intellectual, or physical life.

Whether used as an individual Bible study or used for studying with a group, the "Nelson Impact Bible Study Guide Series will deepen your knowledge and understanding of the Bible, book by book.

Written in an easy-to-read, interesting style, each study guide will help you to experience the true meaning of the messages of the Bible, and in turn, empower you to truly make a difference in the world for Christ.

Key Features Include:

Timelines

Fun cultural facts and probing questions

Plenty of room for taking notes

Biblical and present-day maps

Other study guides in the series include:

1 Corinthians ISBN: 1418506192

Exodus ISBN: 1418506168

Genesis ISBN: 1418506087

Isaiah ISBN: 1418506095

John ISBN: 1418506109

Mark ISBN: 1418506184

Romans ISBN: 1418506117

Ruth & Esther ISBN: 1418506176

These study guides, part of a set from noted Bible scholar John MacArthur, take readers on a journey through biblical texts to discover what lies beneath the surface, focusing on meaning and context, and then reflecting on the explored passage or concept. With probing questions that guide the reader toward application, as well as ample space for journaling, "The MacArthur New Testamant Commentary Series" are invaluable tools for Bible students of all ages. This work on Matthew 8-15 is part of a New Testament commentary series which has as its objective explaining and applying Scripture, focusing on the major doctrines and how they relate to the whole of the Bible. This New Testament commentary series reflects the objective of explaining and applying Scripture, focusing on the major doctrines and how they relate to the whole of Scripture. This volume is a study of chapters 8-15 of the book of Matthew

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

'And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.' Micah 6:8 NIV This book contains 365 short daily devotions on the theme of mercy. Each day's reading will take about one minute to read, and is accompanied by a short scripture passage and a gentle tug on your heart to be the light of mercy in someone's life each day, because a merciful heart looks beyond its own difficulties and encourages others. Written by Don Stephens, bestselling author of Ships of Mercy, and founder of the charity Mercy Ships which offers free surgical care to people in desperate need in Africa, these daily devotional readings are inspired by the very best stories from the work of the people who volunteer on the ship. But each day's reflection points to the need for mercy everywhere... not just across the ocean, but down the street, next door, and even in our very own homes.

In this widely-acclaimed study, Dr Esler makes extensive use of sociology and anthropology to examine the author of Luke Acts' theology as a response to social and political pressures upon the Christian community for whom he was writing. As well as interesting those concerned with prevalent developments in New Testament scholarship, Esler's book offers a New Testament paradigm for those interested in generating a theology attuned to the social and political realities affecting the twentieth-century Christian congregations.

A steaming cup of coffee, a heart-warming story, a poignant time of meditation and prayer in your favorite place of solitude. A few quiet moments alone with God―what a great way to begin . . . or end . . . your day.

Now, Charles, Swindoll, the master communicator whose compelling stories and eye-opening insights have helped millions of people find and build meaningful relationships with God, brings you this moving collection of 365 daily devotionals. Based on the Bible and his best-selling classic, "The Finishing Touch," this new book provides just what you need to open your heart to the Lord's love and leading every day.

Your soul-strengthening journey through this volume can begin at any time during the year. And you will be drawn ever nearer to the heart of God through these brief encounters with Him as you study and worship "Day by Day with Charles Swindoll."

Jesus Calling®has found its way into more than 20 million homes and hearts, becoming one of the bestselling devotionals of all time.

Sarah Young's new Jesus Calling topical devotionals expand the brand in the perfect way. Each topical devotional features beloved content from Jesus Calling and combines the readings together in a new way to amplify a specific felt need for readers.

With stunning four-color photography, Jesus Calling 50 Devotions for Peace includes 50 devotions and personally selected Scripture verses to help draw readers to Jesus during times where they need the lasting peace only He can provide.

The other two in the series focus on themes of comfort and encouragement. Their simultaneous release will offer readers a choice of topics and a choice for gift giving. These three releases will generate triple the presence and awareness in the marketplace.

Readers around the world already love how Sarah's words connect with them on a daily basis. Now they will be able to focus even more deeply on inspirational responses to the major felt needs in their lives.

Publishers Weekly starred review. Academy of Parish Clergy Reference Book of the Year IVP Readers' Choice Award A New Testament in English by Native North Americans for Native North Americans and All English-Speaking Peoples Many First Nations tribes communicate with the cultural and linguistic thought patterns found in their original tongues. The First Nations Version (FNV) recounts the Creator's Story-the Christian Scriptures-following the tradition of Native storytellers' oral cultures. This way of speaking, with its simple yet profound beauty and rich cultural idioms, still resonates in the hearts of First Nations people. The FNV is a dynamic equivalence translation of the New Testament that captures the simplicity, clarity, and beauty of Native storytellers in English, while remaining faithful to the original language of the Bible. The culmination of a rigorous five-year translation process, this new Bible translation is a collaboration between organizations like OneBook and Wycliffe Associates, Indigenous North Americans from over twenty-five different tribes, and a translation council that consisted of twelve Native North American elders, pastors, young adults, and men and women from different tribes and diverse geographic locations. Whether you are Native or not, you will experience the Scriptures in a fresh and new way. Read these sample passages to get a taste of what you'll find inside: "The Great Spirit loves this world of human beings so deeply he gave us his Son-the only Son who fully represents him. All who trust in him and his way will not come to a bad end, but will have the life of the world to come that never fades-full of beauty and harmony. Creator did not send his Son to decide against the people of this world, but to set them free from the worthless ways of the world." John 3:16-17 "Love is patient and kind. Love is never jealous. It does not brag or boast. It is not puffed up or big-headed. Love does not act in shameful ways, nor does it care only about itself. It is not hot-headed, nor does it keep track of wrongs done to it. Love is not happy with lies and injustice, but truth makes its heart glad. Love keeps walking even when carrying a heavy load. Love keeps trusting, never loses hope, and stands firm in hard times. The road of love has no end." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8