One of humanity's most basic and common practices - eating meals - was transformed by Jesus into an occasion of divine encounter. In sharing food and drink with his companions, he invited them to share in the grace of God. His redemptive mission was revealed in his eating with sinners, repentant and unrepentant alike. Jesus' 'table fellowship' with sinners in the Gospels has been widely agreed to be historically reliable. However, this consensus has recently been challenged, for example, by the claim that the meals in which Jesus participated took the form of Greco-Roman symposia - or that the 'sinners' involved were the most flagrantly wicked within Israel's society, not merely the ritually impure or those who did not satisfy strict Pharisaic standards of holiness. In this excellent and thorough study, Craig Blomberg engages with the debate and opens up the significance of the topic. He surveys meals in the Old Testament and the intertestamental period, examines all the Gospel texts relevant to Jesus' eating with sinners, and concludes with some contemporary applications.

How Christianity's Unmatched Truth Answers the Deepest Longings of Every Human Heart To the popular objection Aren't all religions basically the same? pastor and author Jared Wilson answers with an enthusiastic No! Christianity is not merely one among many similar options. It is categorically different--and it's these differences that make it so compelling. In Unparalleled, Wilson holds up the teachings of the Bible to the clear light of day, revealing how Christianity rises above every other religion and philosophy of the world, and how its unmatched truth answers the deepest longings of every human heart. He provides an overview of Christianity's key claims showing how, from top to bottom, it is distinct from all other competing ideologies, religious and secular. Christians will come away with a fresh sense of the truth of their faith and nonbelievers will be compelled to consider the relevant claims of Christianity in a drastically new light.

For believers and skeptics alike, A Doubter's Guide to World Religions introduces the five major world religions so that you can explore their similarities and differences in a fair and engaging way. The world is a very religious place. Wherever you look, people are worshipping, praying, believing, following, even dying for their faith. But what does it mean to be religious? Are all religions the same? Do they all call on the same God simply using different names? Are their beliefs and practices simply cultural expressions of the same spiritual longings? Written by historian and theologian John Dickson in his characteristically engaging style, this book presents each of the world's five major systems of faith, carefully outlining the history, doctrines, beliefs, and spiritual practices of: Hinduism ("The Way of Release") Buddhism ("The Way of Enlightenment") Judaism ("The Way of the Torah") Christianity ("The Way of the Christ") Islam ("The Way of Submission") In his own words, Dickson acts as an art curator in a gallery, presenting each of these "works of art" in their best light and letting each have their say. Along the way, he demonstrates the importance of religion in general-to society and to individual believers-and addresses many of the universal questions that all of these serious and ancient religions ask: Who are we? What is our worth? How should we live? Are we alone? At the end of each section is a bibliography of helpful books and websites for those who are interested in learning even more.

2018 Clifford G. Christians Ethics Research Award This informed theology of communication and media analyzes how we consume new media and technologies and discusses the impact on our social and religious lives. Combining expertise in religion online, theology, and technology, the authors synthesize scholarly work on religion and the internet for a nonspecialist audience. They show that both media studies and theology offer important resources for helping Christians engage in a thoughtful and faith-based critical evaluation of the effect of new media technologies on society, our lives, and the church.

Craig Blomberg's award-winning Jesus and the Gospels prepares readers for an intensive study of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the events they narrate. Blomberg considers the historical context of the Gospels and sheds light on the confusing interpretations brought forth over the last two centuries. This second edition incorporates new scholarship, debate, critical methods, and the ongoing quest for the historical Jesus, and ensures the work will remain a valuable tool for exploring the life of Christ through the first four books of the New Testament.

Discover St. Patrick's relevance

for the 21st century through his

Confessio and Letter to Coroticus and

the beautiful discourse of Pope John

Paul II given in Drogheda. With fuller

appreciation, pray with St. Patrick in a

newly composed Novena based on

early Irish source.

'A powerful defence of Christian orthodoxy, opening up its expansive, generous and life-giving vision.' ALISTER McGRATH 'Learned and wise, this is a book that achieves what even many Christians may find a startling feat: a demonstration that orthodoxy is far more radical & interesting a concept than heresy.' TOM HOLLAND 'Generous orthodoxy' is a liberating outlook that encourages the Church to embrace different traditions of belief, worship and prayer within a broad framework of Christian faith. But is it really possible to be both generous and orthodox? In Navigating a World of Grace, Graham Tomlin offers his own invigorating vision of a generous orthodoxy that is rooted in the creeds' description of a God who is, by nature, the essence of generous grace. Looking at the history of the church, he explores how orthodoxy can enrich and enhance our perception of the world. Rather than restricting us, it liberates us to be generous in our expressions of faith. This tantalizingly different theology, that brings together the best from every tradition, shows why orthodoxy is so important to the Christian faith - and how it can bring us together as a revitalized, unified and visionary Church. Accessible and insightful, Navigating a World of Grace acts as a companion volume to The Bond of Peace but can also be read by itself as an exploration and celebration how Christians of all denominations can show generosity and grace in embracing different traditions of worship while remaining united by a single orthodoxy of faith. Ideal reading for anyone wanting to understand the meaning of generous orthodoxy better or how we can engage with different parts of the church with grace, this is an encouraging and inspiring vision for the future of the church. Navigating a World of Grace challenges us to see that adopting an attitude of generosity towards other Christians and those outside the Christian faith is part of orthodoxy, and will result in a deeper, fuller experience of God than we can possibly imagine.

Close the Door to the Enemy and Open the Door to God Learn how to rid your home of destructive objects and spiritual darkness to create a fortress of love and light for your family. Too many Christians are completely unaware of how the enemy has gained access to their homes through what they own. This practical, easy-to-read book shows you how to pray through your home and property in order to lock out evil and experience a richer spiritual life. With Protecting Your Home from Spiritual Darkness, you are just ten steps away from bringing freedom and security in Christ to your home! Includes the following sections and more: "A Step-by-Step Guide to Praying through Your Home"; "Understanding Spiritual Darkness"; "How to Protect Your Children"; "Learning to Overthrow Generational Curses."

Years ago, novelist Charles Martin cracked open his Bible and began wrestling with a few fundamental questions. He asked, “What if every single word of Scripture is absolutely true and I can trust it? How do I respond? Something in me should change, but what? How?” This book is the result of that exploration.

With the depth, sensitivity, and emotion that has made his novels beloved to millions, Charles ignites our imaginations as to what the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ mean to us today. Charles asks, “What if dead and crucified Jesus came back to life by the power of the Holy Spirit and is alive today? Right now. What if that same Jesus, the One who walked out of the tomb shining like the sun, holding the keys of death and hades, is alive in me. I write fiction for a living, and that’s either the craziest thing I’ve ever heard or it’s the most important word ever spoken.

You and I have a King who did the unthinkable.” And the answers that his writer’s imagination illuminate for us will change the way that we think about the gospel and the way that we live because of it.

Along with his Confessions, The City of God is undoubtedly St. Augustine's most influential work. In the context of what begins as a lengthy critique of classic Roman religion and a defence of Christianity, Augustine touches upon numerous topics, including the role of grace, the original state of humanity, the possibility of waging a just war, the ideal form of government, and the nature of heaven and hell. But his major concern is the difference between the City of God and the City of Man - one built on love of God, the other on love of self. One cannot but be moved and impressed by the author's breadth of interest and penetrating intelligence. For all those who are interested in the greatest classics of Christian antiquity, The City of God is indispensible. This long-awaited translation by William Babcock is published in two volumes, with an introduction and annotation that make Augustine's monumental work approachable.

A way of sacrifice. A way of failure. A way on the margins. A way of holiness. In The Jesus Way Eugene Peterson shows how the ways of those who came before Christ - Abraham, Moses, David, Elijah, and Isaiah - revealed and prepared the way of the Lord that became incarnate and complete in Jesus. Further, Peterson calls into question common ways followed by the contemporary American church, showing in stark relief how what we have chosen to focus on - consumerism, celebrity, charisma, and so forth - obliterates what is unique in the Jesus way.

Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! 2 Peter 3:18 See Your Savior Through New Eyes No human has changed the world more than Jesus, as demonstrated by the many great statements written about him through the ages. In It's All About Jesus, bestselling author Randy Alcorn has compiled some of the most powerful and inspiring words ever said about the Son of God-words that will inspire, instruct, and encourage you to love, trust, and follow him. You'll find yourself spiritually enriched as you read these profound and heartfelt observations about Jesus' character, life, names, and more by well-known Bible scholars, teachers, and writers such as Augustine, Martin Luther, Charles Spurgeon, Joni Eareckson Tada, Francis Chan, and Trillia Newbell. It's All About Jesus will... give you a richer appreciation for who Jesus is and what he has done for you help you discover what it means to seek Jesus above all else increase your motivation to know Christ more intimately Grow closer than ever to the Savior as you reflect on these insights that are all about Jesus.

"The unpleasant task of exposing shoddy scholarship can rarely have been taken in hand with so much gentleness and grace as it is in Professor Woodbridge's response to The Authority and Interpretation of the Bible. A nasty job nicely done. In The Authority and Interpretation of the Bible two young professors tried to show that the best theology before the Reformation and the best Reformed theology since affirms the infallibility of Scripture in matters of faith and conduct but allows it to be incorrect on matters of historical and scientific detail. Professor Woodbridge's learned review makes it impossible to doubt that this paradoxical opinion is wrong. With courtesy and restraint Professor Woodbridge administers a series of knock-out blows to the confidently voiced claim that factual inerrancy is no authentic element in the historic Christian view of Scripture. Professor Woodbridge brings scholarly integrity and a great weight of learning to the business of setting straight the record, confused by others, as to how Christians through the centuries have regarded the Bible. His monograph is a model of careful analysis and cool, corrective controversy. It advances understanding of the history of thought about Scripture in a way that the more pretentious essay that called it forth quite failed to do." --James I. Packer

Dynamic New Teaching from Bestselling Author Ed Silvoso It's no secret that the church today has lost its influence in culture. But why? With the technology, affluence, and knowledge we have today, why are we less effective than the first-century church--which didn't have social media, fancy buildings, professional pastors, or even religious freedom? What are we missing? In these vital, eye-opening pages, bestselling author Ed Silvoso digs into Scripture, unearthing Jesus' true design for his church--his Ekklesia. He shows how the early church was a radical, countercultural force of people who transformed the hostile, pagan places in which they lived. Here Dr. Silvoso shows how we, in the midst of social, economic, political, and moral chaos, can once again become the revolutionary, transformational, life-giving Ekklesia Jesus called us to be.

Based on the author's popular Holy Week talks, given while he was Archbishop, addressed to a public audience in Canterbury Cathedral

Have you ever had a moment when you were certain angels were protecting you? Or perhaps in a time of need, you've longed for a reminder that God's angels are nearby. Experience amazing stories of the angels among us in Entertaining Angels, alongside breathtaking art that will remind you clearly of the words of Scripture: "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" Popular fine artist and writer Anne Neilson has personally experienced the presence of God's angels. In her newest book, Entertaining Angels, Anne and several guest contributors share thought-provoking, moving, and inspiring stories of their own angel encounters. Each entry recounts a story of an angel among us-accompanied by Scripture, reminders of God's love in the promise of the angels around us, and gorgeous original angel paintings by Anne. Inside, read personal stories from notable guest contributors including: Kathie Lee Gifford, actress, author, and singer New York Times bestselling author Ron Hall Singer-songwriter Sheila Walsh Award-winning country music artist Jimmy Wayne Cheryl Scruggs, author and host of Thriving Beyond Belief podcast And many more Known for painting with both passion and purpose, Anne is committed to donating to those experiencing homelessness and poverty in our world, ensuring that Entertaining Angels will continue to give back for years to come. Let the compelling heartfelt stories and the beauty of Entertaining Angels inspire you to become more present to the divine encounters in your own life. Look for more, beautiful, inspirational books from the gifted Anne Neilson. Anne Neilson's Angels Anne Neilson's Angels Guided Journal

Is everything a Christian does 'mission', or does it only count when we speak about Jesus and share the gospel? Does mission include volunteering at the food bank, campaigning for justice and providing aid overseas? As the needs around us multiply and opposition to the gospel intensifies, this question 'Is everything mission?' becomes even more important for us to wrestle with. Tim Chester's 2018 Keswick Convention lecture helps us unpack what mission is and the role that God wants you, your church, your mission agency, to play.

The significance of Old French hagiography in current theoretical debates in medieval studies and the humanities. Contending that the study of hagiography is significant both for a consideration of medieval literature and for current theoretical debates in medieval studies, this book considers a range of Old French and Anglo-Norman texts, using modern theories of kinship and community to show how saints' lives construe social and sexual relations. Focusing on the depiction of the gift, kinship and community, the book maintains that social and sexual systems play a keyrole in vernacular hagiography. Such systems, along with the desires they produce and control, are, it is argued, central to hagiography's religious functions, particularly its role as a vehicle of community formation. In attempting to think beyond the limits of human relationships, saints' lives nonetheless create an environment in which queer desires and modes of connection become possible, suggesting that, in this case at least, the orthodox nurtures the queer. This book thus suggests not only that medieval hagiography is worthy of greater attention but also that this corpus might provide an important resource for theorizing community in its medieval contexts and for thinking it in the present. EMMA CAMPBELL is Associate Professor of French at the University of Warwick.

Explores the intersection of theology and the life of the church

Love, says the apostle Paul, "does not rejoice over injustice, but rejoices in the truth" (1 Corinthians 13:6). The theological explorations undertaken here all deal in one way or another with the liberating promise and the perplexing problem of truth in Christian life and witness, and with the ways that Christian theology and theological education in their various modes struggle both to seek the truth and to foster the aptitude to honour it. Charles M. Wood is Lehman Professor of Christian Doctrine at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, and director of the university's Graduate Program in Religious Studies. His most recent books are 'Attentive in God: Thinking Theologically in Ministry' (co-authored with Ellen Blue) and 'The Question of Providence'. "This engaging collection of essays by Charles Wood offers illuminating perspectives on critical theological issues. Wood opens up theological questions in new ways through providing fresh angles of vision and insightful analysis. His ability to bring clarity to sometimes complex issues makes him a joy to read. Whether one is interested in Wesleyan Studies, the contemporary theological task, or the future shape of theological education, this book will be a most welcome and valued resource." - Henry H. Knight III, Donald and Pearl Wright Professor of Wesleyan Studies, Saint Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, Missouri "Making Wesleyan theology a kind of test case, Charles Wood gracefully shows us the delights and pitfalls of Christian doctrine. Though he gently reminds us of the manifold ways theology can go wrong, he majors in the joy of doing theology devoted to the truth and in service of love. Few theologians are so attuned, as is Wood, to theology's responsibility in a perilous world and yet so ruled by the gospel's power to make its own way despite our theological pretensions. Accompanying Wood in these essays is as rewarding spiritually as it is intellectually. That's the mark of good Wesleyan theology, indeed, of any theology." - M. Douglas Meek, Cal Turner Chancellor Professor of Theology and Wesleyan Studies, Vanderbilt University Divinity School