Reality and Waves: A Quantum Physics Cosmology, Philosophy of Religion, and Ethic explores how the findings of Quantum Physics have rich implications for coping with the realities of everyday life and for developing a Philosophy of Life. Drawing on the insights of an early founder of the discipline, Werner Heisenberg, Ellingsen notes that the study of microscopic realities of the atom results in "weird" findings about reality, that it does not behave as predictably as other Sciences would lead us to think. The uncertainty about these realities emerges because the components of the atom often behave like waves. Drawing on Heisenberg's reflections it is argued that these findings can be applied to visible reality. Just as light is in waves, even our brains embody waves. Public opinion and historical eras are also waves. This vision of reality explains the continuities and discontinuities in life, the highs and lows. Relying on Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle and concept of Complementarity, aided by Augustinian thinking, the case is then made for how Religion and Science can exist side-by-side, what is provided by an appreciation of a God Who dwells in the "stuff" of matter, a God Who perhaps binds the particles and atoms into matter. The concept also helps us understand how God can both determine reality and yet not be in control in all events. In addition, it gives us confidence in dealing with the waves of life and helps us appreciate how a good God still governs in the midst of pandemics, injustices, and tragedies.

This volume is a unique interpretation of what Martin Luther contributes to renewed appreciation of Biblical diversity. The Church in the West is struggling. One reason behind this is that the prevailing models for Theology have imposed logical and modern ways of thinking about faith that renders theology academic, and therefore largely irrelevant for daily life. By letting the first Reformer speak for himself in this book, Mark Ellingsen shows how Martin Luther's theological approach can reform the Church's theology today. The real Luther-not the one taught by his various systematic interpreters-presents Christian faith in its entirety, with all its rough edges, in such a way as to direct on how and when to employ those dimensions of the Biblical witness most appropriate for the situation in which we find ourselves.

When it comes to preaching from a lectionary, it can often be a daunting task to create new ways of preaching about a passage that has been around for thousands of years. It would seem that, after a while, there would be no new ways of looking at a scripture passage. A different perspective, however, can be most beneficial in finding a new way to help your congregation see each of the readings.
This is the inspiration behind the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook "series and this special edition for Lent and Easter. By providing new insights into each of the readings in the Revised Common, Roman Catholic, and Episcopal Lectionaries, Mark Ellingsen has given pastors everywhere the tools they need to effectively relate the heart of the scriptures to their congregations, combining the best of scholarly techniques with pastoral experience. Each of these illustrations and thematic explorations provide the perfect jumping point for pastors to take a text and create thought-provoking, inspirational messages. Its easy-to-use format and illuminating commentary make the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook"an essential addition to any pastor's library.
Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored eighteen books. He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.

"Mark Ellingsen's new" Lectionary Preaching Workbook" will be a wonderful resource for pastors for decades to come. I say this because I find the book to be exegetically sound, theologically strong, homiletically creative, liturgically sensitive, and imminently practical in the best sense of that word. Practical Theology of the highest order -- that's what describes Ellingsen's workbook. A modest hope is that preachers who have found themselves timid about approaching the lectionary will see in Mark Ellingsen's workbook a way to test the waters, and eventually dive in. Ellingsen provides here the opportunity for that homiletical leap of faith
"William J. Carl III, Ph.D.
President and Professor of Homiletics
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
"Dr. Ellingsen presents the preacher with a resource that deeply enriches weekly sermon preparation. Not only does he offer exegetical and theological information for the lections, but sermon topics, themes, and other resources as well... I also appreciate the resources that he offers at the beginning of the workbook: the review of the books of the Bible, a theological overview, as well as reviews of the various seasons of the church. Unlike so many lectionary resources that are grounded in the scriptures, Dr. Ellingsen incorporates a strong focus on the theological emphasis of the texts and context. I will definitely encourage the students to purchase this workbook.
"Lucy Lind Hogan, Ph.D.
Hugh Latimer Elderdice Professor of Preaching and Worship
Wesley Theological Seminary
Washington DC
"Mark Ellingsen's "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" (Series IX Cycle A) is a rich and stimulating resource for preachers, especially those who manage the adamant deadline (really, lifeline) imposed on preachers by weekly worship. Each section is filled with theological reflection, liturgical sensibility, exegetical sketches, along with sermon prompts, outlines, and "gimmicks." This last is his own word for what amount to suggestions for why a sermon on a particular text can be made to matter to both preacher and audience...
Ellingsen's stated intent is to be an unbiased conversation partner with the preacher and in this goal he is careful to provide a range of options for topic and approach for each occasion... The closer a preacher is to wanting to continue in the Protestant tradition if theologically informed, exegetically nuanced, liturgically sensitive, and rhetorically focused preacher, the more that preacher will find "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" a sturdy companion.
"Henry J. (Hank) Langknecht
Haman-Pfahler Professor of Homiletics and Christian Communications
Trinity Lutheran Seminary
Columbus, Ohio
Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor of Church History at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored eighteen books including "Sin Bravely: A Joyful Alternative to a Purpose-Driven Life" (Continuum) and "The Integrity of Narrative" (Wipf and Stock). He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.

"I am very impressed with the way Dr. Ellingsen outlines this" Lectionary Preaching Workbook... "Here is a splendid workbook. It is rich in detail and theological insight. Ellingsen writes clearly, is sensitive to context, and widens our] horizons... This book should be required reading for all pastors, seminary students, and other lay people who are involved in ministry with adults and youth. It should be regarded as a textbook to enhance one's knowledge about the meaning of the seasons or major festivals of the church] year."
Reverend Jesse Averett Jr.
Presiding Elder, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
"If a preacher is looking for quick and easy sermons, this tool is not what s/he is seeking. But if a preacher is looking for solid biblical scholarship, thoughtful exegesis, a possible preaching theme for each of the appointed lessons for each Sunday in the lectionary year accompanied by a variety of ideas for how that theme might be developed, then CSS' latest "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" will be a valuable resource. Built around the Revised Common Lectionary and the Christian church year, Pr. Mark Ellingsen has put together a highly useful resource.
Ellingsen's passion for justice and equality as applied to the social issues of the day comes through clearly in some of his "sermon moves" as well as the socio-economic and political illustrative connections he offers. Incorporating insights and quotations from a variety of sources -- everything from modern brain research to Luther, Calvin, Liberation Theology, Bonhoeffer, Pascal, and Barth -- Ellingsen strives to connect God's word to our world in ways that the preacher will find stimulating and inspirational."
Glenn L. Simmons
Assistant to the Bishop
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
When it comes to preaching from a lectionary, it can often be a daunting task to create new ways of preaching about a passage that has been around for thousands of years. It would seem that, after a while, there would be no new ways of looking at a scripture passage. A different perspective, however, can be most beneficial in finding a new way to help your congregation see each of the readings.
This is the inspiration behind the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook "series and this special edition for Lent and Easter. By providing new insights into each of the readings in the Revised Common, Roman Catholic, and Episcopal Lectionaries, Mark Ellingsen has given pastors everywhere the tools they need to effectively relate the heart of the scriptures to their congregations, combining the best of scholarly techniques with pastoral experience. Each of these illustrations and thematic explorations provide the perfect jumping point for pastors to take a text and create thought-provoking, inspirational messages. Its easy-to-use format and illuminating commentary make the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" an essential addition to any pastor's library.
Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored seventeen books. He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.

"I am very impressed with the way Dr. Ellingsen outlines this Lectionary Preaching Workbook... Here is a splendid workbook. It is rich in detail and theological insight. Ellingsen writes clearly, is sensitive to context, and widens our] horizons... This book should be required reading for all pastors, seminary students, and other lay people who are involved in ministry with adults and youth. It should be regarded as a textbook to enhance one's knowledge about the meaning of the seasons or major festivals of the church] year."
Reverend Jesse Averett Jr.
Presiding Elder, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
"If a preacher is looking for quick and easy sermons, this tool is not what s/he is seeking. But if a preacher is looking for solid biblical scholarship, thoughtful exegesis, a possible preaching theme for each of the appointed lessons for each Sunday in the lectionary year accompanied by a variety of ideas for how that theme might be developed, then CSS' latest Lectionary Preaching Workbook will be a valuable resource. Built around the Revised Common Lectionary and the Christian church year, Pr. Mark Ellingsen has put together a highly useful resource.
Ellingsen's passion for justice and equality as applied to the social issues of the day comes through clearly in some of his "sermon moves" as well as the socio-economic and political illustrative connections he offers. Incorporating insights and quotations from a variety of sources -- everything from modern brain research to Luther, Calvin, Liberation Theology, Bonhoeffer, Pascal, and Barth -- Ellingsen strives to connect God's Word to our world in ways that the preacher will find stimulating and inspirational."
Glenn L. Simmons
Assistant to the Bishop
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
When it comes to preaching from a lectionary, it can often be a daunting task to create new ways of preaching about a passage that has been around for thousands of years. It would seem that, after a while, there would be no new ways of looking at a scripture passage. A different perspective, however, can be most beneficial in finding a new way to help your congregation see each of the readings.
This is the inspiration behind the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook "series. By providing new insights into each of the readings in the Revised Common, Roman Catholic, and Episcopal Lectionaries, Mark Ellingsen has given pastors everywhere the tools they need to effectively relate the heart of the scriptures to their congregations, combining the best of scholarly techniques with pastoral experience. Each of these illustrations and thematic explorations provide the perfect jumping point for pastors to take a text and create thought-provoking, inspirational messages. Its easy-to-use format and illuminating commentary make the "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" an essential addition to any pastor's library.
Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored seventeen books. He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.

Share God's truth in words that engage not only the mind but also the heart with this complete set of insightful and inspiring sermons based on Gospel texts from Cycle A of the Revised Common Lectionary. Five outstanding preachers from diverse denominations skillfully weave together scripture with dynamic stories and illustrations to create eloquent messages for every Sunday and major celebration in the Church year. These stirring sermons pull readers into God's Word by combining deep biblical grounding with an astute understanding of the meaning of Jesus' message and ministry for contemporary living. Offering a vision of God's unconditional love and the grace-filled life, this collection of model messages from an experienced group of master preachers passionately proclaims the Good News, provides a wealth of sermon seeds, and revitalizes the faith of anyone who reads them.
This essential resource is useful for:
- Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts
- Inspiring preaching illustrations and sermon starters
- Understanding scripture passages
- Adult study and discussion groups
- Personal devotions and Bible study
Charles L. Aaron Jr. is the pastor of Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Garland, Texas. Aaron is a graduate of Lambuth College (B.A.), Memphis State University (M.S.), Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University (M.Div.), and Union Theological Seminary in Virginia (Ph.D. in Old Testament).
Lee Griess is the Assistant to the Bishop for Mission and Outreach in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Nebraska Synod. Prior to that he served for 15 years as the senior pastor of Luther Memorial Church in Omaha, Nebraska.
Mark Ellingsen has had a rich and varied career as both a parish pastor and a seminary professor. Ellingsen is now on the faculty of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, the largest historic African-American seminary in the United States.
Wayne Brouwer has been a pastor in the Christian Reformed denomination for nearly three decades, serving congregations in both Canada and the United States (most recently Harderwyk Ministries in Holland, Michigan). He holds degrees from Dordt College (B.A.), Calvin Theological Seminary (M.Div., Th.M.), and McMaster University (M.A., Ph.D.).
Chris Ewing has ministered to both French- and English-speaking congregations of the Presbyterian and United Churches of Canada, serving most recently at St. Paul's United Church in Kindersley, Saskatchewan. Ewing is a graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University, McGill University, and Presbyterian College (Montreal).

In an inclusive reading of Augustine, Mark Ellingsen reveals a patterned conceptual richness in Augustine's thought. "The Richness of Augustine" is a wonderful introduction and a rich ecumenical and historical resource. It is the first introduction that places in focus the significance of Augustine's African cultural and ethnic roots.

Inspired by the heritage of African-American churches, Mark Ellingsen has created innovative, visionary sermons on Old Testament texts from the Revised Common Lectionary. His messages reflect his unique vantage point as a Lutheran of Norwegian heritage teaching at a historically black seminary, and they are a model for anyone who wants to learn how to relate the Bible to the cutting-edge social issues of our day. Ellingsen suggests that many American Christians have abdicated their responsibility to advocate justice in our society or to talk about what the gospel can do in our lives and society as a whole from Monday through Saturday.
Ellingsen believes these Old Testament texts are relevant to our contemporary lives. An all-too-common view of many Christians is look to the New Testament to find the liberating word of God, while viewing the Old Testament as being about the law and the confining demands of tradition. But Ellingsen says that the history of Christianity proves this is not true. He observes that Martin Luther was primarily an Old Testament scholar, and that African-American churches have based many of their traditions of liberation on Old Testament stories and prophetic traditions.
"Mark Ellingsen's offering of sermons based on Old Testament texts reflects his usual thorough biblical scholarship and his readable, down-to-earth style that consistently render his material useful to both scholars and those seeking the inspiration of a faithful Christian."
Richard H. Stough, Publisher
King Publications
Mark Ellingsen has had a rich and varied career as a parish pastor and a seminary professor. In addition to serving several Lutheran congregations in Pennsylvania and North Carolina, he has held teaching positions at Luther-Northwestern Seminary and the Institute for Ecumenical Research in Strasbourg, France. Ellingsen currently is on the faculty of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, the largest historic African-American seminary in the United States. A regular contributor to several homiletics periodicals, Ellingsen is also the author of ten books, some of which have been used as homiletics texts in many American and Canadian seminaries.

This is the second in a two-volume inclusive church history that pays special attention to Christianity in the southern hemisphere, Eastern Orthodoxy, the church among minority cultures in North America, and the role of women in church history. Beginning with an introduction that situates the Reformers within a medieval milieu, the present volume moves through five-hundred years of history to the present, concluding with the question of whether today's church is a liberating church or a church in decay.Through both volumes in this set, Mark Ellingsen presents church history not merely as a collection of facts but as an opportunity to enter into conversation with the church's richly diverse heritage. He sees the role of church history as: (1) community builder - teaching the faithful their heritage; (2) safety-patrol - sensitizing church leaders to the errors of the past that must still be confronted in the present; (3) liberating instrument - learning to look at reality from the perspective of the other, no longer chained to one's own suppositions and cultural biases; (4) source of theological creativity - providing access to the stimulating insights of the great theological minds of the past.Here, then, is an extraordinarily balanced text, one that provides readers with sympathetic exposure to a variety of credible, scholarly interpretations of major figures and that encourages readers to make their own judgments based on the evidence and with the help of suggested primary-source readings. Leading questions about the material covered are included at the end of each section.Mark Ellingsen is Associate Professor of Church History at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta.

"There really is good news God is still eager to save. Prepare yourself for his coming into your life. He is already present. It is all here; the secret to the good and happy life is already manifest and present."
-- from the sermon "We Must Be Blind "
The 21 sermons in this book are based on gospel texts, primarily from Matthew and John. Sermons follow the Revised Common, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic lectionaries.
In his messages, Mark Ellingsen connects preparation through penitence and the new life given in baptism. "The gospel lessons assigned for the season provide excellent occasions to practice such liturgical proclamation," writes Ellingsen. "Penitence and preparation happen in the presence of Christ and the new life he gives. Thus they are Gods work."
Mark Ellingsen is pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church, Asheboro, North Carolina. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and holds a master of divinity and a doctorate from Yale.

Mark Ellingsen dares you to go ahead and sin bravely In this refreshing and unique book, he challenges the religious legalism pervasive throughout American evangelicalism today and encourages a new understanding of what it means to be both a Christian and a human being. Equipped with the joyful, rebellious vision of Martin Luther, father of the Protestant reformation, and the latest in neuroscientific research, Ellingsen offers a new approach for healthy living - one opposed to the duty-oriented, selfish and stifling conception of faith that has gained such a strong foothold in contemporary American culture. It is an approach that fully embraces the active role that God's grace plays in each person's life and the fun and freedom one gains from it.

Beginning with the first theological analysis of Rick Warren's brand of Christianity, this book exposes the burdens and narcissism that purpose-driven and duty-bound living encourages, and includes the purveyors of the Prosperity Gospel, taught by such influential preachers like Joel Osteen, in his critique. Ellingsen writes that brave sinners, aware of God's grace in their lives, instead say "no" to narcissism and "yes" to healthy risk-taking that gets beyond selfish desires to the desire to help one another. When people sin bravely, acknowledging that everything done is done in sin with God's saving grace acting upon them, people can learn to recognize God. This awareness leads to freedom and joy, since the pressure is now removed to do and be good. In addition, total dependence on God entails a self-forgetfulness that leads to happiness. The more boldly someone acknowledges their sin, in failing to take credit for the good they have done, the more focused on God the individual becomes. Correspondingly, this self-forgetful lifestyle is a promising counter-cultural alternative to the cultural narcissism, which so dominate in many segments of contemporary American society. This book demonstrates both how and why brave sinning leads to joy, and in so doing offers readers practical advice on living this way.

Ellingsen also cites recent neurobiological findings showing that when people forget themselves in order to focus on bigger projects, the pleasure centers of the brain are stimulated and people become happier and more content. It is this joyous risk-taking that he suggests brings people closer together, closer to God, and closer to a better understanding of themselves. Sin Bravely dares to be that joyful alternative to the purpose driven life.