Critically evaluates emerging church movement trends.
If you're curious about how modern spirituality is evolving, particularly within Christianity, "Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church" is a profound read. D. A. Carson thoughtfully unpacks the movement that's challenging conventional church practices, offering a balanced perspective that's particularly useful if you're seeking to understand changes in worship and theological approaches today.
A Bible library in one volume
Explore over 4,500 NIV-based entries on biblical people, places, events, and movements. Maps, photographs, charts, and tables add valuable historical and geographical context. A comprehensive reference for general readers, pastors, and Bible students.
Ancient Roots, Modern Messianic Judaism
Michael Schiffman traces Messianic Jewish history from the first century to today. He examines its theological and cultural place, including the Law and tri-unity of God. Drawing on research into modern congregations, he considers its relationship to synagogue and church.
Two Millennia of Spirit-Filled Christianity
This expansive reference traces Pentecostal and charismatic movements across 60 countries and regions. Its 1,000 articles cover key revivals, figures, institutions, practices, and theological developments. Maps, photographs, timelines, statistics, bibliographies, and indexes support deeper research.
When the cross became a sword
James Carroll traces two millennia of conflict between the Church and Judaism. Blending historical research with personal reflection, he confronts antisemitism, the Holocaust, and his own Catholic faith. This urgent reckoning calls on the Church to face its past and reconsider its future.
Meet the New Testament in context
D. A. Carson examines authorship, dates, sources, purposes, and historical settings. Each document receives a substantial content summary and discussion of its canonical contribution. Revised and expanded, this second edition also surveys literary and social-science approaches.
Mapping America’s alternative spiritual landscape
Ruth A. Tucker surveys major alternative religions and New Age practices in the United States. She examines their origins, influential personalities, and appeal to spiritual needs. Appendices cover lesser-known groups and include statements of belief.
A comprehensive survey of occult traditions
Walter Ralston Martin follows The Kingdom of the Cults with a wide-ranging reference. It covers witchcraft, Wicca, Satanism, pagan religions, exorcism, and spiritual warfare. Each chapter combines quick facts, history, case studies, theology, and resources.
Context, letters, and Revelation explored
Examine New Testament letters within first-century Roman society. Explore authorship, style, theology, context, and key themes. Exercises and two-level essay topics support active study.
New Testament history, made clear
Ben Witherington III explores the people, events, and social movements that shaped the world of Jesus and his followers. An engaging, accessible account for understanding Christianity’s emergence.
Biblical customs, indexed for exploration
James M. Freeman’s work focuses on biblical manners and customs. Bibliographical references support further study. Indexes make targeted consultation convenient.
For readers untangling faith, power, and belonging
This timely collection examines how religion shapes political identities worldwide. Its Asian case studies ground global extremism debates in local realities. You’ll gain a nuanced framework for understanding fundamentalism beyond headlines.
Strategies for engaging modern unchurched communities.
If you're passionate about growing your congregation, "Grow Your Church from the Outside In" offers an eye-opening perspective on the world of the unchurched. It's not only a dive into their mindset but also a strategic guide, distilled from successful methods used by other churches. This could be your blueprint for connecting meaningfully with potential members right where they are.
Strategies for growing and retaining church congregants.
If you've noticed the pews looking sparse or your church's community feeling a bit disjointed, "How to Attract and Keep Active Church Members" might just be the guidebook you need. Donald P. Smith offers practical insights backed by thorough research, which could help in revitalizing your church's atmosphere and fostering a more engaged and committed congregation. It's a strategic read for anyone invested in the vibrancy and future of their church community.
Biblical blueprint for authentic Christian community.
If you're seeking insights on how the book of Romans can inform the life of the church today, Marva Dawn's "Truly the Community" might resonate with you. It explores the notion of community within the Christian faith, challenging modern individualism with theological depth. As a follower looking for a deeper sense of belonging and practice within your spiritual community, this book could offer you both comfort and inspiration.
Navigating traditional faith in a postmodern world.
If you're feeling that your church's approach is struggling to connect with contemporary society, "The Church in Transition" by Tim Conder could provide you with invaluable insights. Conder doesn't shy away from showing where the existing church model falls short, but he also highlights the promise of emerging churches. This book could be particularly useful to anyone looking to understand and engage with the evolving face of Christianity today.
Faith-informed strategy for purposeful, effective evangelism
This classic is ideal if you want church growth grounded in both theology and research. It connects spiritual conviction with practical insights from sociology and missionary experience. The streamlined edition makes its influential ideas clearer and more accessible today.
Global Christianity's transformative geographical journey.
If you've ever been curious about the dynamic shifts within Christianity and its broader implications on church unity and cultural exchange, "From Times Square to Timbuktu" is a thought-provoking read. Wesley Granberg-Michaelson offers insights into the unprecedented migration of Christian vitality from the West to regions near Timbuktu. This book is particularly relevant for those intrigued by the intersection of faith and global cultural trends.
Practical guide to modern, innovative church planting.
If you're interested in how traditional church models are evolving to meet the demands of a changing world, "Mission-Shaped: Church" could be a valuable resource for you. It's a well-researched manual that doesn’t just theorize but offers actionable advice and examples that can inspire local congregations to adapt and innovate. Whether you're a devout practitioner, a religious leader, or simply curious about the dynamics of Christianity today, this book offers thought-provoking insights into the future of church communities.
Uncovering the dark roots of Halloween and Satanism.
Reasons to Read: - This book dives deep into the origins of Halloween, shedding light on its dark and mysterious history. - It presents a thought-provoking exploration of the true meaning behind this widely celebrated holiday. - Be prepared for an unsettling journey as the author unveils the explicit material behind Halloween and its connection to Satanism. - If you're curious about the darker side of Halloween and want a comprehensive understanding of its origins, this book is for you.
Appeal: Global Church Growth Overview
This book provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the global church, highlighting the areas of growth and the challenges that still exist. It offers an insightful perspective on the progress made by Christians worldwide and the inspiring journeys that have led to this growth. This book is ideal for anyone who wants to gain a broader understanding of the global church.