Why does the church teach? And what should it teach? In recent years, traditional Sunday school and education programs have declined in influence and effectiveness. Education in the church is often sidelined by other competing priorities, and our efforts become haphazard and random. As a result, many Christians have not learned the fundamental doctrinal content of the faith. As a response, a growing number of church ministries have moved toward an emphasis on Christian spiritual formation. But churches must hold together education and formation, the teaching of the faith and the forming of the faithful. In this comprehensive text, Gary Parrett and Steve Kang attend to both the content and process of educational and formational ministries. They set forth a thoroughly biblical vision for intentional teaching of the Christian faith, with a holistic concern for what and whom is taught as well as how and why. Fully apprised of developments in educational theory and pedagogy, Parrett and Kang propose a core curriculum for recovering the full scope of Christian proclamation and reinvigorating the teaching ministry of the church. Their vision has implications not merely for catechesis, but for preaching, worship, children's and youth ministry, and much more. The body of Christ can become all that God intends it to be, through intentional practices that foster personal and corporate formation. Here is guidance for individuals and congregations on that journey.

The 40 Days of Community Study Guide-part of the Living with Purpose small group bible study by Rick Warren-is a dynamic individual or small group study guide that will help you learn how to fulfill God's five purposes for your life. By unpacking the biblical support for each of the five purposes (fellowship, spiritual growth, service, worship, and sharing the good News) you'll learn the ways it applies to you and your circle of influence, and how you can use this knowledge to benefit God's kingdom. Through it, Warren also explains how God planned for Christians to fulfill his purposes in community with each other in our church families, small groups, and in the world as a whole. Why did God plan it this way? Because we're better together! 40 Days of Community will deepen your understanding of how God uses community for your own good and growth, as well as help you cultivate deeper relationships with those around you. Learn to fulfill God's purposes ... discover how we are better together. Sessions include: 1. We're Compelled to Love God's Family 2. We're Commissioned to Reach Out Together 3. We're Chosen to Fellowship Together 4. We're Connected to Grow Together 5. We're Called to Serve Together 6. We're Created to Worship Together This study guide is designed for use with the 40 Days of Community Video Study and 40 Days of Community Devotional Journal.