This introductory textbook presents Christian philosophical and theological approaches to ethics. Combining their expertise in philosophy and theology, the authors explain the beliefs, values, and practices of various Christian ethical viewpoints, addressing biblical teachings as well as traditional ethical theories that contribute to informed moral decision-making. Each chapter begins with Words to Watch and includes a relevant case study on a vexing ethical issue, such as caring for the environment, human sexuality, abortion, capital punishment, war, and euthanasia. End-of-chapter reflection questions, illustrations, and additional information tables are also included.

Christians talk frequently about the Bible, yet they do not always have an informed and wide-ranging understanding of varied Christian views about its nature. Don Thorsen and Keith Reeves combine their biblical and theological knowledge to create such a unique introduction to the Bible.
This book not only provides an introduction to the interpretation of the Bible but also to the history and theological understanding behind it, equipping students to think critically about their own tradition's approach to Scripture. It is perfect as a supplemental textbook in both introductory biblical studies and theology courses, but it will also be of interest to adult education classes.

This introduction to Christian theology explores the whole Christian tradition in a simple and straightforward way. Leading Wesleyan theologian Don Thorsen surveys the theological views represented within historic Christianity and discusses the variety of positions held without favoring one over another. The book includes helpful end-of-chapter questions for further reflection and discussion, a convenient glossary of theological terms, and sidebars. The second edition is marked by a thorough updating of the text and the addition of two new chapters on apologetics and the future of the unevangelized.

About the Contributor(s): Steve Wilkens, PhD, is Professor of Philosophy and Ethics and Faith Integration Fellow for Faculty Development at Azusa Pacific University. He has authored and edited several books, including Hidden Worldviews: Eight Cultural Stories that Shape Our Lives and Beyond Bumper Sticker Ethics. Don Thorsen, PhD, is Professor of Theology and Chair of Graduate Theology and Ethics at Azusa Pacific University. He is author of more than ten books, including The Wesleyan Quadrilateral, An Exploration of Christian Theology, Everything You Know about Evangelicals Is Wrong, and Calvin vs. Wesley: Bringing Belief in Line with Practice.

Holiness is one of the more important realities in our understanding of who God is, of the life that God wants Christians to live and, indeed, of all the blessings of Christianity. We sing praises in church about the holiness of God. Christians desire to become holy as God is holy. This desire is encouraged in both the Old and New Testaments. God views us as holy through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ; and by the work of the Holy Spirit, God acts to make Christians increasingly holy-more godly, more like Christ. It is not enough for Christ to be our Savior; he also wants to be the Lord of our lives in all that we think, say, and do. This book may be used to study the biblical understanding of holiness in general; it also may be used as a devotional guide to holy living.It is as relevant to college, university, and seminary contexts as it is to adult Sunday school classes, weekday small group gatherings, or individuals interested in becoming more holy, more like Christ. It is not necessary to read through the book sequentially; each chapter is self-contained. Thus, readers may want to look at the Table of Contents and choose the chapters of most interest.

Does the concept of holiness hold any relevance for Christians in the twenty-first century? Or is it rather a relic of the past, with nothing to offer in today's postmodern world? The contributors to this book firmly insist that holiness is indeed relevant, no matter the age in which we live. Moreover, it is essential to following Christ in the twenty-first century.

The essayists are all members of the Wesleyan Holiness Study Project, a gathering of scholars and leaders who have met since 2004 to explore the mission of the churches of the Holiness movement. The book begins with two compelling ecumenical statements articulating the holiness message for today's church: "The Holiness Manifesto" and "Fresh Eyes on Holiness." These are followed by a dozen penetrating essays grouped in three parts: (1) the understanding of holiness in Scripture, (2) holiness in historical and theological perspective, and (3) holiness in relation to various practical aspects of ministry. The book concludes with appendixes offering five considered descriptions of holiness.

The fastest-growing segments of the church worldwide have their roots in the Wesleyan Holiness tradition. Catholic, Orthodox, and other Protestant denominations are discovering its relevance to their own traditions and practices. The Holiness Manifesto offers an ideal overview to those wishing to understand more about this extremely influential movement.

Contributors: Jim Adams
Barry Callen
Lisa Dorsey
Roger Green
John Huntzinger
Cheryl Bridges John
Craig Keen
David W. Kendall
William Kostlevy
Diane LeClerc
Kevin Mannoia
James E. Massey
George McKinney
Thomas A. Noble
Jonathan S.Raymond
C. Stevens Schell
Howard A. Snyder
Don Thorsen
Lynn Thrush
Kenneth L. Waters Sr.

This book develops the theological method implicit in the theology of John Wesley. The four normative sources for doing theology have been described as the Wesleyan quadrilateral--Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. The author shows that for Wesley the Protestant concept of "Scripture alone" entails the view that the Scriptures are the primary source, not the only source, of theology. He proposes that Wesley's theological method is the basis for a catholic evangelicalism and ecumenism that is faithful to the Scriptures, to the Early Church Fathers, to a responsible use of reason, and Christian experience enlightened by the Holy Spirit.

The Pocket Dictionary of Christian Spirituality is an A to Z introduction and resource for curious newcomers and novice students of spirituality. From our first call to Abba until we arrive at Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, Don Thorsen charts the Christian spiritual pilgrimage through its many traditions, schools of thought, and tested practices. Among the over 300 definitions you'll find terms and ideas traditions and movements practices and rituals texts and theology A reliable guide and launching pad for learning, the Pocket Dictionary of Christian Spirituality is a basic resource for the pilgrimage travel bag. Designed for students and pastors alike, the short and accessible volumes in the IVP Pocket Reference Series will help you tackle the study of biblical languages, church history, apologetics, world religions, Christian spirituality, ethics, theology, and more.