A beautifully written, theologically astute Advent study that focuses on the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth.

This major work offers a historical description and systematic analysis of the root causes of this global economic crisis, which the authors understand as a crisis of western civilization. Secondly, they assume (and prove) that the religions of the Axial Age were shaped by the suffering of people, deepened by the emergence of a new economy - based on money, private property and interest. They assume that the proven convergence of the Axial Age religions in responding to the social, psychological (and already ecological) consequences of the new economy can inform, motivate and empower faith communities and their members to join hands with social movements towards a new personal and collective culture of life. In part I they show the linkage between the contexts of antiquity and modernity concerning the role of money, private property and the related structures and mentalities of greed, producing suffering, and psychological, social and ecological destruction. They show how the religions of the Axial Age responded to this context in similar ways but with interesting specific emphases. In relation to today's situation we also raise the question of psychological hindrances to change in the different social classes, affected by neoliberalism, and how to overcome them. Before drawing the conclusions for present-day alliance-building between faith communities and social movements for alternatives to neoliberal globalization in Part III they offer a fundamental critique of the ambivalence of modernity in Part II.

In thirty-one biblical, highly personal meditations, Nancy Stafford leads us to the edge of an endless sea--the vast, incomprehensible ocean of God's love. Nancy reflects upon the terrible beauty of His love, the wonder of forgiveness, waiting in His love, mystery and intimacy, and the calming reality of love that never fails. Each meditation includes a Scripture to ponder and an opportunity to respond to God in prayer. Here are memorable thoughts to cling to through the hours of the day...and night

Clarence Larkin's examination of The Book of Revelation stands as one of the most detailed commentaries ever created, made unique by the large tables and illustrations. As with his other intensive examinations, Clarence Larkin sets out to clarify the many mysterious chapters and verses for the benefit of Christians seeking greater insight and knowledge of the holy text. Using his own system of organization, Larkin dispenses the various messages and meanings behind the Book of Revelation clearly. Throughout this superb work of Bible study, all explanations and assertions are supported by quotations of the scripture. The principle lessons and stories of Revelation each receive scrutiny, while the various Sevens - the Seven Dooms, Seven Personages, Seven Last Plagues, and so on, are explained in enlightening and authoritative detail. The culmination of more than twenty-five years of study, it is no exaggeration to say that Larkin's explanations of The Book of Revelation contain a life's work.

God is life. His words impart life. A sermon should be an intimate encounter with the life-giving essence of the Word Himself. How do we as preachers extend such an encounter to our listeners? How can we offer words that transform? James T. Flynn unpacks the power of preaching to change lives and provides a new way to consider sermon preparation and delivery. Words That Transform re-images sermon-making as an experience of incarnation. A sermon begins as a seed sown in the womb of the preacher's heart through intimacy with God. That word takes upon itself flesh in the preacher's life, changing the preacher first. When proper delivery is married to imagination, the sermon's potential to transform others is realized. Using scholarship, practical teaching, and personal narrative, this book will lead preachers toward personal renewal and new power in their preaching ministry. eBook can be found on Apple iBooks.

The Bible. You've heard of it, yes? Maybe something about David and Goliath or Noah's ark, or a baby in a manger? What if I told you there was tons of stuff in the Bible that you've never heard about? Things like talking donkeys, self-conscious magicians, and kings who think they're cows. The Bible is a curious book full of deeply flawed people and a God who refuses to give up on them. Don't believe me? Look for yourself. In these 60 devotions, we examine these unique stories, the circumstances and biblical truth around them, and what they reveal about the heart of God.

School textbooks in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and elsewhere in the Arab and Muslim worlds are filled with anti-Western and anti-Israel propaganda. Most readers will be shocked to discover that history and geography textbooks widely used in America's elementary and secondary classrooms contain some of the very same inaccuracies about Jews, Judaism, and Israel. Did you know that 'there is no record of any important Jewish contribution to the sciences?' (World Civilizations, Thomson Wadsworth). Or that 'Christianity was started by a young Palestinian named Jesus?' (The World, Scott Foresman/Pearson). Supplemental materials and other classroom influences are even worse. The Trouble with Textbooks exposes the poor scholarship and untruths in textbooks about Jews and Israel. The problems uncovered in this ground-breaking analysis are instructive, and illustrate the need for reform in the way textbooks are developed, written, marketed, and distributed. Substitute another area_how we teach American history, Western civilization, or comparative religion_and we have another, equally intriguing case study. The Trouble with Textbooks shows what can go terribly wrong in discussing religion, geography, culture, or history_and in this case_all of them. The Trouble with Textbooks tells a cautionary tale for all readers, whatever their background, of how textbooks that Americans depend on to infuse young people with the values for good citizenship and to help acculturate students into the multicultural salad that is American life, instead disparage some groups and teach historical distortions. With millions of young people using these textbooks each year, the denigration of some should be a concern for all.

This popular Bible reading plan schedules daily readings from both the Old and New Testaments.

Jesus Christ. He is, without question, the most influential person in history. Millions of people claim the truths of the religion that bears His name.

But who exactly "is" Jesus? A popular religious teacher? An ancient martyr? Many today are unsure. Even scholars debate whether the Jesus of history is the Christ of faith. Now, more than ever, we need a clear understanding of the person and work of the man millions call "Savior."" "

In this ninth and final biographical study in the best-selling Great Lives from God's Word series, " "beloved pastor and Bible teacher Charles" "Swindoll introduces you to the carpenter from Nazareth as you have never seen Him before.

This fascinating biography, filled with biblical and historical insights, takes you on an unforgettable journey through the complex and provocative life of Jesus of Nazareth. His unique birth. His astonishing power. His controversial teaching. His shocking death. And His world-changing resurrection.

Refreshingly honest and deep, this in-depth profile reveals" "Jesus with great clarity and offers practical applications for your own life. Whether you're just curious about Jesus or a longtime follower of His life and teachings, you'll experience His life in a new way as you join Dr. Swindoll in "Jesus: The Greatest Life of All."