'A brilliant introduction to prayer' Richard Rohr, Author of Everything Belongs One of America's most beloved spiritual leaders and the New York Times bestselling author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Jesus: A Pilgrimage teaches anyone to converse with God in this comprehensive guide to prayer. 'What do we need to learn? That prayer changes us-and so changes the world we live in; that God is always there before us; that it's God's action that makes the difference. Practical, comprehensive, and above all God-centered, this book is a deeply valuable companion for growing in faith.' Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury In The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, Father James Martin included a chapter on communicating with God. Now, he expands those thoughts in this profound and practical handbook. Learning to Pray explains what prayer is, what to expect from praying, how to do it, and how it can transform us when we make it a regular practice in our lives. A trusted guide walking beside us as we navigate our unique spiritual paths, Martin lays out the different styles and traditions of prayer throughout Christian history and invites us to experiment and discover which works best to feed our soul and build intimacy with our Creator. Father Martin makes clear there is not one secret formula for praying. But like any relationship, each person can discover the best style for building an intimate relationship with God, regardless of religion or denomination. Prayer, he teaches us, is open and accessible to anyone willing to open their heart.

Many children today arrive as teenagers at confirmation classes without a basic grasp of key Bible stories and Christian knowledge. Based on the author's own experience as a pastor and teacher, this book lists 100 essentials of biblical and Christian knowledge that all children should know before they are confirmed. Topics covered include: Bible basics; key Old Testament stories and characters; the 10 commandments; The New Testament; The Gospels; The life and teachings of Jesus; The early Church; worship and sacraments; world religions. For each item on the list, the author provides a brief description or explanation, followed by suggestions for exploring the subject with children and young people, including at confirmation level.

Knowledge that Transforms Without truth, we will be subject to every wind of distraction. Without grace, our lives will ring hollow. The Grace and Truth Study Bible is designed to help you understand and be formed by Scripture. Rich passage-by-passage study notes are theologically sound, guiding you to a deep understanding of each text, while always keeping in view the transformative affirmation and goodness of God's nature and redemptive plan. Dr. R. Albert Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and one of the foremost voices for evangelicals worldwide, heads up the editorial team for the NASB Grace and Truth Study Bible. This group of scholars and pastors is committed to delivering a trustworthy and approachable guide to Scripture to Bible readers. The warmhearted and faithful notes will provide first-time Bible readers reliable guidance while simultaneously nourishing veteran students of the Word with fresh insights. Unwavering in its commitment to evangelical steadfastness, this study Bible paints a stunning canvas of the goodness of God's redemptive plan revealed in the gospel of Jesus. Universally recognized as the gold standard among word-for-word translations, the beloved New American Standard Bible, 1995 Text, is now easier to read with Zondervan's exclusive NASB Comfort Print (R) typeface. Available in a variety of sophisticated designs, the NASB Grace and Truth Study Bible gives you the translation celebrated for faithfulness to the original biblical languages in a portable, easy-to-read format. Features: The full text of the New American Standard Bible, 1995 Text Insightful and practical bottom-of-the-page study notes faithfully illuminate Scripture passage by passage Bible Book Introductions invite you into the Scripture text without overwhelming technical terms or outlines Center-column cross reference system for deeper study NASB concordance Words of Jesus in red Elegant two-color page design 16 pages of full-color Bible maps Two satin ribbon markers Thumb Indexed Project leadership by general editor Dr. R. Albert Mohler, Jr., president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Exclusive Zondervan NASB Comfort Print typeface Print Size: 10 (Study Notes: 8.5)

Many children today are growing up in the midst of adversity, whether brought on by family difficulties or larger societal crises. All children need to be able to deal with stress, cope with challenges, and persevere through disappointments. While we cannot protect children from all hardships, we can promote healthy development that fosters resilience. In this interdisciplinary work, Holly Catterton Allen builds a bridge between resilience studies and children's spiritual formation. Because children are spiritual beings, those who work with them can cultivate spiritual practices that are essential to their thriving in challenging times. This book equips educators, counselors, children's ministers, and parents with ways of developing children's spirituality to foster the resilience needed to face the ordinary hardships of childhood and to persevere when facing trauma. It offers particular insight into the spiritual experiences of children who have been hurt by life through chronic illness, disability, abuse, or disasters, with resources for healing and hope.

The great Reformer's sermons on one of the critical chapters of the Book Isaiah. Christian theologians, from the time of the Early Church have seen Isaiah 53 as one of the most important prefigurings of the suffering of Christ for the people of God, and Calvin's sermons bring out the theological significance of this key chapter for Christians.

A series of sermons, revealing Brunner as an outstanding preacher. Few theologians of his eminence combine their understanding of the central doctrines of the Christian faith with such persuasive spiritual exposition and eloquence.'Preaching,' says Brunner, 'is a living occurrence which can only very imperfectly be crystallised in writing.' But the most critical judges of sermons will admit that here a master preacher moves beyond the printed page into the soul of the reader. There is a personal poignancy about the Fraumunster sermons, which places them in the forefront of modern preaching. Here a great teacher of the faith proclaims the Word of God to a 'believing congregation' an encounter seen by Brunner as decisive for Christian communication.

The Ark of Speech investigates the interplay of speech and silence in the dialogue between God and human beings, and human beings and the world. Ranging from the Old Testament and its depiction of God's creative word to the New Testament and its focus on the life and words of Jesus as the Word of the Father, the book shows how important it is for the believer to listen to God and to others in silence and devotion.

In this highly engaging book, Peter Walker uses his expertise in Biblical studies and his extensive experience of leading tours around the Mediterranean to bring the world of Saint Paul vividly to life. Following Luke's account in the Book of Acts and using evidence from Paul s own letters, he reconstructs the apostle s wide-ranging travels and describes the many places Paul visited as we encounter them today. In doing so he helps us to appreciate the issues that Paul confronted and to understand the motivation that drove him on. Enriched with boxed features outlining key timelines and topics, and supplemented with maps and street plans, this book is an ideal introduction to Paul and his travels for scholars at all levels of study.

Encouragement. Perseverance. Stickability. How we need these in our daily lives if we are to grow as Christians and not become jaded and discouraged. So much for the theory, but how can this work out in practice? And when we feel like just giving up? With insightful teaching and application from Michael Baughen, David and Ian Coffey, Jonathan Lamb, Nigel Lee, Ivor Poobalan, Andy Prime, Matt Sleeman, Rico Tice and others, this short volume digs into the Bible, offering timeless wisdom from the Psalms, Ephesians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Timothy, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter and Revelation. It draws from the inspirational life of pioneer missionary Amy Carmichael. It equips us for those times when we just need to keep on keeping on. A 30-day undated devotional tailored for real people in the real world today.

The 'De venenis' attributed to 'Malachias Hibernicus' is a portable discussion of vices and virtues. Probably composed about 1280, originally as an aid for Franciscan preachers, it adopts the innovative metaphor that sin is a poison removed by various 'treacles'. Its argumentative mode is to adduce scientific data about venomous beasts, the sins, and the antidotes to their poisons, the 'remedial' virtues. From these 'facts' of natural history, Malachy constructs homiletic similitudines (analogical figures). These, typically of a sort designed for use in sermones ad status, he applies to vicious and virtuous activities, and perhaps particularly ones peculiar to Ireland. Although Malachy the Irishman and his On Poison have received only a handful of scholarly notices in the last century, in the later Middle Ages, his was a widely known book. A lengthy introduction presents evidence for the wide circulation of Malachy's text and the little that is known of the author. It further addresses literary issues: the work's genre, hovering between a treatise on vices and virtues, a compendium of scientific information, and a handbook for preachers; Malachy's efforts at compilation of authoritative materials; and a preliminary account of some early users, including William Langland and Robert Holcot. The introduction concludes by examining the insuperable difficulties involved in editing the text. The centre of the volume presents an annotated preliminary text and translation, together with some account of early interpolations the text received. The volume concludes with three indexes, one with all biblical citations, one of all Malachy's other citations, and a third of Malachy's similitudines, his moralised scientific information.

Twenty-nine experts from a wide variety of fields and institutions have come together to offer a renewed vision for the value of a distinctly Christian approach to higher education.

Originally published in 1907, this book provides information to parents and teachers wishing to teach their children about Christianity as well as science. Lodge details his fear of mandatory secularism in schools and advises how to instruct children in science without allowing any doubt of Christian doctrine and stresses the importance of reconciliation between religion and science for future generations. This title will be of interest to students of Education and Religion.

Better understand the original meaning of Scripture for a deeper study of God's Word. Bring the words of Scripture to life and discover the richness and significance of the original languages of the Word of God. The KJV Word Study Reference Bible includes in-text subheadings and 2,000 easy-to-use word studies with select Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek words explained in every chapter from Genesis to Revelation. By looking into these ancient texts, we are able to read scripture as it was originally written and passed on from generation to generation. In addition, this Bible's Topic-by-Topic studies give a practical framework for understanding scripture, along with more helpful resources. Features include: Presentation page allows you to personalize this special gift by recording a memory or note Book introductions provide a concise overview of the background and historical context of the book about to be read 2,000 word studies illuminating the biblical language 21 chain-linked topical studies for better theological understanding and application Study the Book provides helpful notes for reading each book of the Bible Word study indices by Strong's number, by English word, and by book help you find Greek and Hebrew word studies Extensive cross-references drawing connections between texts Concordance provides an alphabetical listing of important passages by key words Words of Christ in red quickly identify verses spoken by Jesus 16 full-color maps show the layout of Israel and other biblical locations for better context Ribbon markers make it easy to navigate and keep track of where you were reading Clear and readable 9.5-point KJV Comfort Print (R)

In youthful yet tasteful comic-book style, Jesus comes alive for young readers with vibrant and expressive four-color illustrations and simple but engaging text. The moving story of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus is told in a way young readers will find both attractive and challenging; the Gospel is simplified without losing any of its saving power. "And what about you, who do you say that I am?"

You don't need to abandon your life to get it back. You can restore it with sustainable practices that are within your reach. And you will never be the same... We live in soul-scorching times. The 24-7 onslaught of contemporary life-with its never-ending feed of global tragedies, demands for our attention, and pressures of work, family, and friends-has left us feeling ragged, wrung-out, and emptied. But if we have no margin in our lives, how do we find room to change anything? In this life-changing video Bible study (DVD/digital downloads sold separately), John Eldredge distills a lifetime of wisdom into five practical and ready-to-implement practices for putting your life back together: The one-minute pause, Benevolent detachment, Practicing kindness, Getting outside, and Stepping back from technology. Together, these simple practices will add up to enable you to begin recovery, care for the neglected places in your soul, and rediscover the hidden life of God in you. Rest assured, the graces offered in this study are within reach of normal life. They're practicable and refreshing. God wants to come to us and restore our lives. We just need to put ourselves in places that allow us to receive his help. Designed for use with Get Your Life Back Video Study (sold separately).

This book takes an innovative approach to the study of the penitentials and nunnery rules and the ways in which these texts impinged upon the lives of female audiences. The study emphasises the importance of the texts for the promotion of Christian values and of the expectations of churchmen in the construction of appropriate Christian behaviour for women in the early medieval West. These texts constitute the only written works which would have had direct influence upon the lives of lay and religious women. The work focuses upon the elements of the penitentials which provided female-specific expectations, and these fall largely into two categories of sexuality and pre-Christian practices. The nunnery rules seldom provided comprehensive sets of behavioural expectations. Rather, rules emphasised expectations relating to issues of enclosure, work and abstinence which came to be perceived as the defining characteristics of religious women.

Why does God allow adversity? God has a plan and a purpose for each of us, and He can turn things to good regardless of the situation we face. These two key principles-rooted in Scripture and evidenced in the lives of Christians throughout the ages-should color the lenses through which all followers of Christ view adversity. In Advancing Through Adversity, Dr. Charles Stanley provides a new perspective on the trials we face, revealing what questions to ask and what lessons can be learned from such times. Understanding God's role and bolstering our courage can help us advance through adversity rather than be overcome by it. The Charles F. Stanley Bible Study Series is a unique approach to Bible study, incorporating biblical truth, personal insights, emotional responses, and a call to action. Each study draws on Dr. Stanley's many years of teaching the guiding principles found in God's Word, showing how we can apply them in practical ways to every situation we face. This edition of the series has been completely revised and updated, and includes two brand-new lessons from Dr. Stanley.

Beloved evangelist Billy Graham understood the flurry of modern life and the constant temptation of busyness. In a world in which everyone seems to be rushing to finish their to-do list, answer their emails, and respond to their cell phones, peace is still possible. In Peace for Each Day, a 365-day devotional, Graham shares God's gentle, reassuring promise of spiritual calm. Each daily passage in Peace for Each Day invites you to joyfully engage with Scripture as you meditate on God's peace--peace that can be found whatever the circumstances, whatever the calling, whatever the future holds. This 365-day devotional features: a larger trim and print a beautiful leathersoft cover a ribbon marker and presentation page As Graham wrote, "Millions are searching for [peace], but we Christians have found it! It is ours now and forever." Peace for Each Day makes a beautiful gift book for men and women of all ages for: Birthdays Christmas Mother's and Father's Day Grandparent's Day With words from one of the most popular and respected authors of our time, Peace for Each Day invites you to receive a peace that no one can take away.

Why is there so little agreement on what it means to be a Christian? In this eight-session video-based Bible study (DVD/digital video sold separately), join pastor and bestselling author Andy Stanley as he examines the characteristics Jesus used to define those who follow him and the implications these characteristics have for believers today. In Christian: It's Not What You Think, you'll learn: The one word that should be descriptive of every Christian. How Jesus' followers should treat those who are outside the faith. Why people love Jesus but can't stand his followers. So, what does it mean to be Christian? Curiously, the term 'Christian' was a label used by outsiders to define Jesus' followers. Jesus simply used 'disciple' to describe his followers and stressed the fact that they would be known by their love-a radical concept not only in their day, but in ours as well. Throughout these eight sessions, Andy Stanley unpacks the qualities Jesus prescribes for his followers that made them unique. What if believers today embodied these traits and put them before all others? Would the non-believing world put aside its derisive definition of 'Christian' and instead know us by our love? Sessions include: Brand Recognition Quitters Insiders, Outsiders Showing Up When Gracie Met Truthy Angry Birds Loopholes Working It Out Designed for use with the Christian Video Study 9780310693352 (sold separately).

Originally published in 1907, this book provides information to parents and teachers wishing to teach their children about Christianity as well as science. Lodge details his fear of mandatory secularism in schools and advises how to instruct children in science without allowing any doubt of Christian doctrine and stresses the importance of reconciliation between religion and science for future generations. This title will be of interest to students of Education and Religion.