PREFACE An historical and geographical resource for the study of Scripture and a companion for visiting the Lands of the Bible is an indispensable tool for the Christian. But even more significant is a pilgrimage involving a Seminar in which one is actually able to study and visit the Bible Lands in person. As Christians we can be greatly enriched by becoming better acquainted with the actual places which are part of our spiritual heritage. These places can become for us significant witnesses to the events that changed forever the course of history. What happened in the Lands of the Bible has become important in the history of humanity and it should be extremely significant to each one who has taken the name of Jesus, the Christ. As you consider these lands and - one hopes - you are able to travel in the footsteps of Paul and John, may you gain a new sense of vitality as you relive the journeys when these early Christians faced hostile crowds, were beaten, imprisoned and without backing down did their ministries with a commitment inspired by the divine presence of God's Spirit in their lives. May you be reminded that the churches in these regions were birthed in one of the most difficult and yet exciting periods of history when the Gospel message first burst onto the world's scene. In this part of the world some of these churches have continued with vitality while others have lost their zeal and still others have faded into the past and only archaeological ruins are now left to mark places where vibrant congregations once met and served Christ as Lord. But almost all of these ancient congregations suffered persecution for their Lord. Some were also part of the intense theological task of seeking to define who Jesus Christ really is and in so doing they staked their reputations and lives on his divinity, resurrection and Lordship.

Mossy Creek Press is proud to present this resource for studying scripture and a companion for traveling. The Lands of the Bible will help first-time visitors to the Middle East as well as seasoned travelers. Filled with personal experiences, sound scholarship, detailed maps, and thirty-three black and white photographs, this books is sure to enhance readers' perceptions of what is often designated the "Holy Land." Dr. Borchert is currently Senior Professor at Carson-Newman College and also serves as Thesis Director for the Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies.

In Forgiveness: Unleashing a Transformational Process Larry D. Ellis addresses one of the most challenging topics, the receiving and giving of forgiveness. He addresses the historic Christian perspective of forgiveness being the sole responsibility of the one who has been hurt or offended. Ellis puts forth an extensive development from ancient documents, pivotal biblical passages, especially Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, and a number of traumatizing realities of the current time. His chapter on the Fictional Myths of Forgiveness is particularly insightful, exposing a number of cultural perspectives that presents a counterfeit immitation of forgiveness, which will never lead to full reconciliation between persons in great conflict. The extensive study guide, included in the book, will greatly facilitate the reader to put what is read into practice in their lives. This book is good for both individual and group reading and discussion.

Gerald Borchert provides a unique survey of the New Testament by centering on its understanding, teaching, language, and reflections of worship. He seeks to show how worship language and action lie behind much of the New Testament and how the modern church can gain a new power in worship through renewed reflection on the New Testament. Borchert first looks at the larger New Testament unit-gospels, Pauline letters, pastorals, etc. Then he takes each book in the section, passage by passage, and shows how worship constantly enters into the author's style and purpose in bringing that author's unique meaning to the individual context. He concludes each section with a terse Worship Summary of the biblical book and with questions for the reader to contemplate. Thus Borchert invites the reader to enter into the worship discussion and find ways to give depth, meaning, and hope to personal and congregational worship. At each step, Borchert underlines the deep connection between worship and life.