Biblical teaching
BRF titles are designed to encourage understanding of the Bible and seek to help the reader to use and apply the Bible in daily life.
{"id":3280088432740,"title":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15","handle":"a-fruitful-life-abiding-in-christ-as-seen-in-john-15","description":"\u003cp\u003e'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a life lived out of relationship with Jesus Christ. A life of intimacy, of abiding in him, is the source and spring of all other activity and endeavour. The branch bears fruit because it abides in the vine.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn A Fruitful Life we ponder the teaching of Jesus in John chapter 15, the famous 'vine' passage. He is preparing his disciples for his departure and describing how they can be effective witnesses in a hostile world. Just as his instructions revolutionised their lives, so a proper understanding of what he is saying can revolutionise our lives also. It is the heart of the gospel message: the only way to live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live his life in us and through us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book includes material for individual reflection and also questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"199\" width=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/TonyHorsfall_2014_480x480.png?v=1676494125\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer with a passion to help individuals deepen their relationship with God. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and a graduate of London School of Theology, and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and quiet days, road-testing the material in this book in Singapore. He has written a number of other books, including Song of the Shepherd and A Fruitful Life for BRF, and also writes for New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe need of the hour is for Spirit-filled, Christ-centred, Father-glorifying, Bible-based, fruitful individuals and churches. This book can only help towards that goal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteve Brady, Moorlands College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, August 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, ‘I am the vine.’ John 15.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s exploration of this well-known passage begins with a stark yet realistic picture of Christianity and the church in 21st Century, post-Christian Britain. Yet he reminds us that it was into such a ‘hostile world’ that Jesus gave this core teaching to his disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, this book’s relevance for us is clear. And the author’s key question is also clear: ‘What does it mean to be a Christian?’ His answer, in part, is that the purpose of our lives is to give glory to God – it is our destiny to bear fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall challenges the reader not to see bringing people to faith as the main fruit. We are to focus on the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and how they are to grow (and to be seen to grow) in our lives through our personal attributes and responses to the needs of others. Within that growth we see God working which leads us to worship which then gives glory to God: which is, as already stated, the purpose of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of what Tony Horsfall writes will be familiar to many but in this book he also offers fresh insights into this key teaching from Jesus. He explores the symbolism of the vine in the Bible as a whole and suggests that Jesus is not just addressing us as individuals but also the nature of the church – a theme to which he returns later. His exploration of looking after a vineyard is particularly helpful – considering all the different words that are used in various translations of the passage. God is the gardener, vine dresser, husbandman, farmer – all have the unique qualities, all are present in the Father.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, the way he explains the actual cultivation and growth of grapes from the vine draws very helpful parallels with our life in Christ – albeit including tough and difficult chapters on cleansing and pruning. But they too are potentially necessary in order to address sin and unhelpful practice so that further growth is enabled, not prevented. ‘Letting go of what is precious to us is very much the human side of divine pruning,’ he writes. And quoting Selwyn Hughes, ‘Always remember that no matter how often the secateurs snip, or how painful pruning, your life is in good hands: it is your Father who is the gardener.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core theme of the passage on abiding in Christ in the knowledge we can do nothing without him is explored in depth. Tony Horsfall approaches this from a particular viewpoint which some readers will be familiar with. He offers five ‘disciplines’ to help receive the life-giving sap that enables the vine to bear fruit:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDependency on God through prayer and allowing God to be in control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReading, studying and meditating on the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnowing oneself to be loved and to receive that love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObedience to God and surrendering ourselves to him – or to put it another way: listening to God and following his lead\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeveloping intimacy and friendship with God by spending time with him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this leads to a life of prayer, joy and community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterspersed with reflective poetry, questions for individuals and groups, A Fruitful Life offers a helpful perspective on very familiar words – watering solid ground to enable further growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of Life with St Benedict and writes a blog at workrestpray.com\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrom: \u003cem\u003eThe Methodist Recorder\u003c\/em\u003e - 07 June 07\u003c\/strong\u003e The 15th chapter of St John's Gospel - the familiar 'vine' passage - has been inspirational to many down the years. In his book, \u003cem\u003eA Fruitful Life\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Horsfall takes us through this chapter looking at each verse with the aim of helping us fully appreciate what a life lived abiding in Christ really means. Why do we need to abide? Because 'apart from him we can do nothing'. Each section offers material for individual reflection and also sensible questions for group discussion.","published_at":"2019-04-09T11:59:31+01:00","created_at":"2019-04-09T11:59:31+01:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Group reading","Jun-19","Kindle","Torch Trust"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":26454500311140,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468840","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15 - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":141,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468840","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468840-l.jpg?v=1554807596","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/19_f409d628-f02f-4dc1-96b0-9fd0ae34a784.png?v=1734095678"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468840-l.jpg?v=1554807596","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3264958267531,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468840-l.jpg?v=1554807596"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468840-l.jpg?v=1554807596","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63560964440444,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/19_f409d628-f02f-4dc1-96b0-9fd0ae34a784.png?v=1734095678"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/19_f409d628-f02f-4dc1-96b0-9fd0ae34a784.png?v=1734095678","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a life lived out of relationship with Jesus Christ. A life of intimacy, of abiding in him, is the source and spring of all other activity and endeavour. The branch bears fruit because it abides in the vine.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn A Fruitful Life we ponder the teaching of Jesus in John chapter 15, the famous 'vine' passage. He is preparing his disciples for his departure and describing how they can be effective witnesses in a hostile world. Just as his instructions revolutionised their lives, so a proper understanding of what he is saying can revolutionise our lives also. It is the heart of the gospel message: the only way to live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live his life in us and through us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book includes material for individual reflection and also questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"199\" width=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/TonyHorsfall_2014_480x480.png?v=1676494125\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer with a passion to help individuals deepen their relationship with God. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and a graduate of London School of Theology, and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and quiet days, road-testing the material in this book in Singapore. He has written a number of other books, including Song of the Shepherd and A Fruitful Life for BRF, and also writes for New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe need of the hour is for Spirit-filled, Christ-centred, Father-glorifying, Bible-based, fruitful individuals and churches. This book can only help towards that goal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteve Brady, Moorlands College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, August 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, ‘I am the vine.’ John 15.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s exploration of this well-known passage begins with a stark yet realistic picture of Christianity and the church in 21st Century, post-Christian Britain. Yet he reminds us that it was into such a ‘hostile world’ that Jesus gave this core teaching to his disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, this book’s relevance for us is clear. And the author’s key question is also clear: ‘What does it mean to be a Christian?’ His answer, in part, is that the purpose of our lives is to give glory to God – it is our destiny to bear fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall challenges the reader not to see bringing people to faith as the main fruit. We are to focus on the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and how they are to grow (and to be seen to grow) in our lives through our personal attributes and responses to the needs of others. Within that growth we see God working which leads us to worship which then gives glory to God: which is, as already stated, the purpose of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of what Tony Horsfall writes will be familiar to many but in this book he also offers fresh insights into this key teaching from Jesus. He explores the symbolism of the vine in the Bible as a whole and suggests that Jesus is not just addressing us as individuals but also the nature of the church – a theme to which he returns later. His exploration of looking after a vineyard is particularly helpful – considering all the different words that are used in various translations of the passage. God is the gardener, vine dresser, husbandman, farmer – all have the unique qualities, all are present in the Father.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, the way he explains the actual cultivation and growth of grapes from the vine draws very helpful parallels with our life in Christ – albeit including tough and difficult chapters on cleansing and pruning. But they too are potentially necessary in order to address sin and unhelpful practice so that further growth is enabled, not prevented. ‘Letting go of what is precious to us is very much the human side of divine pruning,’ he writes. And quoting Selwyn Hughes, ‘Always remember that no matter how often the secateurs snip, or how painful pruning, your life is in good hands: it is your Father who is the gardener.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core theme of the passage on abiding in Christ in the knowledge we can do nothing without him is explored in depth. Tony Horsfall approaches this from a particular viewpoint which some readers will be familiar with. He offers five ‘disciplines’ to help receive the life-giving sap that enables the vine to bear fruit:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDependency on God through prayer and allowing God to be in control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReading, studying and meditating on the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnowing oneself to be loved and to receive that love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObedience to God and surrendering ourselves to him – or to put it another way: listening to God and following his lead\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeveloping intimacy and friendship with God by spending time with him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this leads to a life of prayer, joy and community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterspersed with reflective poetry, questions for individuals and groups, A Fruitful Life offers a helpful perspective on very familiar words – watering solid ground to enable further growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of Life with St Benedict and writes a blog at workrestpray.com\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrom: \u003cem\u003eThe Methodist Recorder\u003c\/em\u003e - 07 June 07\u003c\/strong\u003e The 15th chapter of St John's Gospel - the familiar 'vine' passage - has been inspirational to many down the years. In his book, \u003cem\u003eA Fruitful Life\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Horsfall takes us through this chapter looking at each verse with the aim of helping us fully appreciate what a life lived abiding in Christ really means. Why do we need to abide? Because 'apart from him we can do nothing'. Each section offers material for individual reflection and also sensible questions for group discussion."}
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A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15
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'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a life lived out of...
{"id":2439791247460,"title":"Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday","handle":"jesus-said-i-am-finding-life-in-the-everyday","description":"\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of Israel's narrative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough sensitive retelling, thoughtful discussion and creative exercises, Andrea Skevington shows the transforming power of Jesus' words. Each chapter focuses on a different 'I am' saying and offers ideas for reflection and response, including suggestions for further study, prayer and meditation, creative response, 'life and service' practical outreach, music suggestions and further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, 'I am' integrates faith and imagination, story and study, helping reader towards a well-grounded and more profound faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrea Skevington lives in Suffolk with her family. She writes for both adults and children, winning the Christian Book of the Year award (Speaking Volumes) for her retelling, The Lion Classic Bible (Lion Hudson, 2011). She also preaches and leads Bible studies and children's groups, creative writing workshops and retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Andrea's lockdown blog and read some of her lockdown poems click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/writer-poet-and-blogger-andrea-skevington-reflects-on-jesus-i-am-sayings-in-light-of-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry digital edition 2. Review by Rosemary Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003enearly all the chapters in this book are built on specific ‘I Am’ sayings of Jesus. Its great strength is the combination in each chapter of contextual and theological analysis, reflections for study and contemplation and a variety of creative ideas. This makes it valuable in a variety of settings: retreats, study days, weekly courses based on each chapter, as well as Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The theological background in each chapter is concise yet informative and the study questions are challenging. The emphasis in the creative response sections invites reflection and action based on personal experience and the prayer resources could equally well be used in formal and informal liturgical settings. The scope of reference is wide, poets, philosophers and a variety of theological material, helpful for those preaching as well as group and individual contexts. Andrea Skevington says in her introduction that writing this book has changed the way she sees following Jesus. Her vision for the book, that it will take the reader deeper into the adventure of discovering who Jesus is, and who they are as individuals comes alive from the very start when she begins exploring the implications of the phrase ‘I am’. The connections between Old Testament history and concepts of God and the teachings of Jesus moves naturally in each chapter to links with contemporary experience and opportunity for action. This book is a valuable resource for ministry and personal reflection. It lives up to its subtitle of ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rosemary Walters \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWoman Alive: WA Book Club April 2019. Review by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis month I'm reading ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love having a book that I really want to share with you. Some months I flail around, starting a novel and discarding it before moving on to a life story or an exploration of Christian discipleship. But sometimes a wonderful book comes along that I can highlight unreservedly, such as Andrea Skevington's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJesus said, 'I am'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn it she delves into the 'I am' sayings of Jesus according to John's Gospel. In the Greek Jesus says\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eego eimi\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e24 times, seven of which have become the 'I am' sayings. Andrea explores these (from 'I am the bread of life' to 'I am the good shepherd' to 'I am the true vine') and also the interesting story of the woman at the well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love how she splits her chapters into halves. First she digs into the particular story, unpacking the context of what Jesus experienced. The second half moves to reflection and response, including searching questions for individual pondering or group discussion. She also suggests various creative responses, such as writing, photography,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003electio divina,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eand other exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo give you a flavour, let's look at the story of the woman at the well (John 4). Andrea sets the story in its context - that of conflict, not only between the Jews and the Samaritans, but also between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus stops at the well that Jacob gave to Joseph, which reminds the reader of the long history of God's people. Here Jesus acts as a peacemaker in the midst of conflict. He speaks to one ostracised by society - a woman who has had many husbands. We might judge this woman, but as Andrea observes, in that day, men easily acquired divorces and early death was common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus humbly asks the woman for a drink. He recognises her as made in the image of God as he cuts through her layers of shame and hiding. Seeing her for who she is, he sets her free. She in turn leaves behind the water jug and goes forth joyfully to share the good news with those who were shaming her. Perhaps that jug, Andrea observes, symbolises the old life left behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter exploring the story (with more depth than I've conveyed here), Andrea leads us into some questions, including, 'Are there people you would be reluctant to talk to and drink with? If so, why?' I particularly like her creative response of choosing a striking phrase from the Bible story; hers is 'the well is deep'. We sit with that phrase, playing with it through poetry or prose, writing a story or jotting down some thoughts about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a book to deepen your faith and love for Jesus, give this one a try. You'll be enriched and encouraged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye, Editor WA Book Club\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, April 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hebrew scriptures record God’s revelation of the name of the Godhead to Moses as: ‘I am who I am.’ Jesus was the long-awaited Jewish Messiah, but not the type of Messiah expected by his contemporaries. He was not a rich and powerful prince or a trained priest in the temple of Jerusalem. His ministry was not to lead an army to attack and overthrow Rome, but to lay down his life for the world. Yet, he could only accomplish this if the legal and religious authorities did not realise who he was and what he had come to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo those who had ears to hear and eyes to see, Andrea Skevington argues, Jesus reveals himself as the Son of Man and Son of God in a most original and startling way in his famous ‘I am’ sayings: ‘I am the bread of life.’ ‘I am the light of the world.’ ‘I am the good shepherd.’ ‘I am the gate for the sheep.’ ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ ‘I am the way, the truth and the life.’ ‘I am the true vine.’ As Skevington says, ‘I am’ is such a common construction in every language; it is how we define ourselves, but it is also a very deep mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter of this book explores one of the stories in which Jesus says, ‘I am…’ It looks at its context and characters and shows the transforming power of Jesus’ words for his listeners. Skevington goes beyond the classic seven ‘I am’ statements, also including Jesus’ words to the woman at the well and what he said when he was confronted by soldiers in the garden of Gethsemane: ‘I am he for whom you are looking.’ Each time, Skevington includes a prayer and meditation and gives suggestions for further study and some creative responses in service and practical outreach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book could be used by individuals for their own personal faith development or used as a study guide for group discussions. It would make an excellent Lent course!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Ball is Minister of the Free Church, St Ives and Fenstanton United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e ______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on https:\/\/monasteriesoftheheart.org\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a unique look at the things Jesus says about himself. It has a few pages of retelling and discussion of each passage, followed by a huge quantity of suggestions for responses -questions to invite thinking, prayer and meditation and creative ideas, with drawing, writing and making, getting out and about in creation and suggestions for activism, service and worship. It is such a rich resource that in one small book there is enough to return to again and again. A real delight of practical theology. Andrea has a blog where you can explore sections from her work as a gift. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthor and amateur-theologian Skevington presents nine chapters of material on the ‘I am’ sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel. She deals with Jesus as the bread of life (chapter 3), the light of the world (4), the good shepherd and the gate (together in 5), the resurrection and the life (6), the way, the truth and the life (7), and the true vine (8). The short ninth and final chapter is about Jesus’ saying ‘I am he’ in John 18:5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter 1 discusses the revelation of God’s name ‘I Am’ (Yahweh) to Moses in Exodus 3 and chapter 2 is about Jesus and the women at the well, to whom he says that he is the Messiah, using the same words ‘I am’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first part of each chapter contains the full text of the Scripture passage and a study of it, the second part offers numerous suggestions for ‘reflection and response’: questions, references to similar passages with questions about them, prayers, suggestions for activities, suggestions for further reading, and much more. For example, after ‘I am the bread of life’ we are invited to bake bread, to reflect on avoiding waste and to consider fasting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkevington’s explanations of Scripture are attractive and generally to the point, although occasionally driven by association rather than by strict interpretation. She fills some Greek words with more meaning than they have in themselves. The suggested responses are naturally more diverse and the ideas for further study touch on the entire Christian life. This means that in the end this positive book reaches far and wide. It will surely help attentive readers in their life of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore about the author and her books can be found on her website. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andreaskevington.com\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/andreaskevington.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T18:07:52+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:18+00:00","vendor":"Andrea Skevington","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","Jan-19","Kindle","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769635823716,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465627","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436810944612,"product_id":2439791247460,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:18+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:41+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141","variant_ids":[21769635823716]},"available":false,"name":"Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465627","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238879297675,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879297675,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465627-l.jpg?v=1549043141","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eDrawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of Israel's narrative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough sensitive retelling, thoughtful discussion and creative exercises, Andrea Skevington shows the transforming power of Jesus' words. Each chapter focuses on a different 'I am' saying and offers ideas for reflection and response, including suggestions for further study, prayer and meditation, creative response, 'life and service' practical outreach, music suggestions and further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, 'I am' integrates faith and imagination, story and study, helping reader towards a well-grounded and more profound faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrea Skevington lives in Suffolk with her family. She writes for both adults and children, winning the Christian Book of the Year award (Speaking Volumes) for her retelling, The Lion Classic Bible (Lion Hudson, 2011). She also preaches and leads Bible studies and children's groups, creative writing workshops and retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Andrea's lockdown blog and read some of her lockdown poems click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/writer-poet-and-blogger-andrea-skevington-reflects-on-jesus-i-am-sayings-in-light-of-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry digital edition 2. Review by Rosemary Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003enearly all the chapters in this book are built on specific ‘I Am’ sayings of Jesus. Its great strength is the combination in each chapter of contextual and theological analysis, reflections for study and contemplation and a variety of creative ideas. This makes it valuable in a variety of settings: retreats, study days, weekly courses based on each chapter, as well as Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The theological background in each chapter is concise yet informative and the study questions are challenging. The emphasis in the creative response sections invites reflection and action based on personal experience and the prayer resources could equally well be used in formal and informal liturgical settings. The scope of reference is wide, poets, philosophers and a variety of theological material, helpful for those preaching as well as group and individual contexts. Andrea Skevington says in her introduction that writing this book has changed the way she sees following Jesus. Her vision for the book, that it will take the reader deeper into the adventure of discovering who Jesus is, and who they are as individuals comes alive from the very start when she begins exploring the implications of the phrase ‘I am’. The connections between Old Testament history and concepts of God and the teachings of Jesus moves naturally in each chapter to links with contemporary experience and opportunity for action. This book is a valuable resource for ministry and personal reflection. It lives up to its subtitle of ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rosemary Walters \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWoman Alive: WA Book Club April 2019. Review by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis month I'm reading ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love having a book that I really want to share with you. Some months I flail around, starting a novel and discarding it before moving on to a life story or an exploration of Christian discipleship. But sometimes a wonderful book comes along that I can highlight unreservedly, such as Andrea Skevington's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJesus said, 'I am'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn it she delves into the 'I am' sayings of Jesus according to John's Gospel. In the Greek Jesus says\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eego eimi\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e24 times, seven of which have become the 'I am' sayings. Andrea explores these (from 'I am the bread of life' to 'I am the good shepherd' to 'I am the true vine') and also the interesting story of the woman at the well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love how she splits her chapters into halves. First she digs into the particular story, unpacking the context of what Jesus experienced. The second half moves to reflection and response, including searching questions for individual pondering or group discussion. She also suggests various creative responses, such as writing, photography,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003electio divina,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eand other exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo give you a flavour, let's look at the story of the woman at the well (John 4). Andrea sets the story in its context - that of conflict, not only between the Jews and the Samaritans, but also between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus stops at the well that Jacob gave to Joseph, which reminds the reader of the long history of God's people. Here Jesus acts as a peacemaker in the midst of conflict. He speaks to one ostracised by society - a woman who has had many husbands. We might judge this woman, but as Andrea observes, in that day, men easily acquired divorces and early death was common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus humbly asks the woman for a drink. He recognises her as made in the image of God as he cuts through her layers of shame and hiding. Seeing her for who she is, he sets her free. She in turn leaves behind the water jug and goes forth joyfully to share the good news with those who were shaming her. Perhaps that jug, Andrea observes, symbolises the old life left behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter exploring the story (with more depth than I've conveyed here), Andrea leads us into some questions, including, 'Are there people you would be reluctant to talk to and drink with? If so, why?' I particularly like her creative response of choosing a striking phrase from the Bible story; hers is 'the well is deep'. We sit with that phrase, playing with it through poetry or prose, writing a story or jotting down some thoughts about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a book to deepen your faith and love for Jesus, give this one a try. You'll be enriched and encouraged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye, Editor WA Book Club\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, April 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hebrew scriptures record God’s revelation of the name of the Godhead to Moses as: ‘I am who I am.’ Jesus was the long-awaited Jewish Messiah, but not the type of Messiah expected by his contemporaries. He was not a rich and powerful prince or a trained priest in the temple of Jerusalem. His ministry was not to lead an army to attack and overthrow Rome, but to lay down his life for the world. Yet, he could only accomplish this if the legal and religious authorities did not realise who he was and what he had come to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo those who had ears to hear and eyes to see, Andrea Skevington argues, Jesus reveals himself as the Son of Man and Son of God in a most original and startling way in his famous ‘I am’ sayings: ‘I am the bread of life.’ ‘I am the light of the world.’ ‘I am the good shepherd.’ ‘I am the gate for the sheep.’ ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ ‘I am the way, the truth and the life.’ ‘I am the true vine.’ As Skevington says, ‘I am’ is such a common construction in every language; it is how we define ourselves, but it is also a very deep mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter of this book explores one of the stories in which Jesus says, ‘I am…’ It looks at its context and characters and shows the transforming power of Jesus’ words for his listeners. Skevington goes beyond the classic seven ‘I am’ statements, also including Jesus’ words to the woman at the well and what he said when he was confronted by soldiers in the garden of Gethsemane: ‘I am he for whom you are looking.’ Each time, Skevington includes a prayer and meditation and gives suggestions for further study and some creative responses in service and practical outreach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book could be used by individuals for their own personal faith development or used as a study guide for group discussions. It would make an excellent Lent course!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Ball is Minister of the Free Church, St Ives and Fenstanton United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e ______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on https:\/\/monasteriesoftheheart.org\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a unique look at the things Jesus says about himself. It has a few pages of retelling and discussion of each passage, followed by a huge quantity of suggestions for responses -questions to invite thinking, prayer and meditation and creative ideas, with drawing, writing and making, getting out and about in creation and suggestions for activism, service and worship. It is such a rich resource that in one small book there is enough to return to again and again. A real delight of practical theology. Andrea has a blog where you can explore sections from her work as a gift. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthor and amateur-theologian Skevington presents nine chapters of material on the ‘I am’ sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel. She deals with Jesus as the bread of life (chapter 3), the light of the world (4), the good shepherd and the gate (together in 5), the resurrection and the life (6), the way, the truth and the life (7), and the true vine (8). The short ninth and final chapter is about Jesus’ saying ‘I am he’ in John 18:5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter 1 discusses the revelation of God’s name ‘I Am’ (Yahweh) to Moses in Exodus 3 and chapter 2 is about Jesus and the women at the well, to whom he says that he is the Messiah, using the same words ‘I am’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first part of each chapter contains the full text of the Scripture passage and a study of it, the second part offers numerous suggestions for ‘reflection and response’: questions, references to similar passages with questions about them, prayers, suggestions for activities, suggestions for further reading, and much more. For example, after ‘I am the bread of life’ we are invited to bake bread, to reflect on avoiding waste and to consider fasting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkevington’s explanations of Scripture are attractive and generally to the point, although occasionally driven by association rather than by strict interpretation. She fills some Greek words with more meaning than they have in themselves. The suggested responses are naturally more diverse and the ideas for further study touch on the entire Christian life. This means that in the end this positive book reaches far and wide. It will surely help attentive readers in their life of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore about the author and her books can be found on her website. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andreaskevington.com\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/andreaskevington.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday
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Drawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of Israel's narrative. Through sensitive...
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{"id":2439788134500,"title":"Jesus Through the Old Testament: Transform your Bible understanding","handle":"jesus-through-the-old-testament-transform-your-bible-understanding","description":"\u003cp\u003eConfident in the Old Testament? Enjoying reading it? Happy to preach from it?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this engaging book, Graeme Goldsworthy reflects with clarity and practical insight on reading and using the Old Testament, showing us how Jesus is central to the Old Testament's message and encouraging us to reinstate it as essential and transformative to our lives, churches and mission in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author asks essential questions: Where is Jesus in the whole biblical story-line? How does the kingdom of God relate to him? In what way is he central to the divine revelation?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a must-read for those who wish to transform their biblical understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForeword\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1 Where's Jesus?\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIs the Old Testament a Christian book?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGetting started: looking for the big picture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe storyline of the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe kingdom of God as a unifying theme\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe shape of progressive revelation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2 Working with the texts\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome key events in biblical revelation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in Genesis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in Israel's history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in wisdom and psalms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in the prophetic books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJesus Christ the fulfiller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eD.I.Y.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Old Testament can be confusing or problematic for many readers. But in this book, Graeme Goldsworthy helps the Christian reader join the dots, and so make sense of the Old Testament's big picture. He shows how understanding the Old Testament comes from seeing it as a witness to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Goldsworthy traces the developing idea of the kingdom of God through the Old Testament, neatly summarised by his maxim, 'God's people in God's place under God's rule'. Readers will appreciate his explanation of fulfilment and typology, supporting ideas, his explanation of example texts, and the sense of movement towards Jesus. Rather than focus on details that might overwhelm the beginner, Goldsworthy provides a basic roadmap for how the Old Testament's big ideas, from Genesis to Malachi, find their ultimate meaning in Jesus Christ.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e George Athas, Director of Postgraduate Studies, Moore Theological College, Sydney \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo one has done more in the past 50 years to contribute to the recovery of Biblical Theology for the church than Graeme Goldsworthy. Now in this crystal-clear, deeply practical and enormously helpful book, Graeme has condensed years of reflection on and teaching of the Bible for the benefit of the church. I can think of no more helpful place to start for anyone who wants to find out how to read, understand and apply the message of the Bible. I pray that this book gets the attention and widespread use that it deserves for the sake of Christ and his kingdom.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gary Millar, Principal, Queensland Theological College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Phil Heaps, full-time elder, Grace Church Yate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you rarely venture outside the New Testament (NT) then this little book may be just what you need. In a clear, enthusiastic way, Goldsworthy takes us on a tour through the Old Testament (OT) showing us how it points forward to Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe starts with the importance of the OT to the NT and alerts us to several wrong approaches to the OT. The following chapters then provide a helpful overview of the OT, its storyline, and various key themes. 'The Kingdom of God' is seen as the Bible's overarching theme, without insisting that this is the only way to organise its message.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe shows how OT history initially reveals the kingdom and how, as that history takes a turn for the worse, the prophets point forward to the glorious reality foreshadowed there. Later chapters look in detail at key events, Genesis, the historical books, wisdom literature, and prophets, leading to a chapter on 'Jesus Christ the fulfiller'. The final chapter is very practical and strikes an excellent balance in various ways: start with prayer but study hard; read for the big picture but also examine texts closely; remember that Scripture is firstly 'God's Word about God's deed in bringing in his kingdom', but also make personal and practical applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoldsworthy covers a lot of helpful ground - including many Scripture passages - in a brisk, straightforward manner, with plenty of tips and diagrams. His nine-page summary of the OT storyline is particularly helpful, as well as his treatment of 'the day of the Lord', and the way in which the NT must control our understanding of OT fulfilment. The book reads simply, though its approach is not simplistic but carefully nuanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn a few points I found myself disagreeing with Goldsworthy's approach or emphasis (eg there was little sense of Paul's Galatians 3 tension between the Promise and the Law) but it was often on questions of where exactly to get the balance. As an introduction to the Old Testament it is an excellent book, and highly recommended for young Christians, or those who feel they have not yet 'got their arms around' the first two-thirds of God's glorious word.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Phil Heaps, full-time elder, Grace Church Yate\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:05+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:06+00:00","vendor":"Graeme Goldsworthy","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Kindle"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769598828644,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465672","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436794593380,"product_id":2439788134500,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:06+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:44+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144","variant_ids":[21769598828644]},"available":false,"name":"Jesus Through the Old Testament: Transform your Bible understanding - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":165,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465672","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238879068299,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879068299,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465672-l.jpg?v=1549043144","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eConfident in the Old Testament? Enjoying reading it? Happy to preach from it?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this engaging book, Graeme Goldsworthy reflects with clarity and practical insight on reading and using the Old Testament, showing us how Jesus is central to the Old Testament's message and encouraging us to reinstate it as essential and transformative to our lives, churches and mission in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author asks essential questions: Where is Jesus in the whole biblical story-line? How does the kingdom of God relate to him? In what way is he central to the divine revelation?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a must-read for those who wish to transform their biblical understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForeword\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1 Where's Jesus?\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIs the Old Testament a Christian book?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGetting started: looking for the big picture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe storyline of the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe kingdom of God as a unifying theme\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe shape of progressive revelation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2 Working with the texts\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome key events in biblical revelation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in Genesis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in Israel's history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in wisdom and psalms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinding Christ in the prophetic books\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJesus Christ the fulfiller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eD.I.Y.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Old Testament can be confusing or problematic for many readers. But in this book, Graeme Goldsworthy helps the Christian reader join the dots, and so make sense of the Old Testament's big picture. He shows how understanding the Old Testament comes from seeing it as a witness to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Goldsworthy traces the developing idea of the kingdom of God through the Old Testament, neatly summarised by his maxim, 'God's people in God's place under God's rule'. Readers will appreciate his explanation of fulfilment and typology, supporting ideas, his explanation of example texts, and the sense of movement towards Jesus. Rather than focus on details that might overwhelm the beginner, Goldsworthy provides a basic roadmap for how the Old Testament's big ideas, from Genesis to Malachi, find their ultimate meaning in Jesus Christ.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e George Athas, Director of Postgraduate Studies, Moore Theological College, Sydney \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo one has done more in the past 50 years to contribute to the recovery of Biblical Theology for the church than Graeme Goldsworthy. Now in this crystal-clear, deeply practical and enormously helpful book, Graeme has condensed years of reflection on and teaching of the Bible for the benefit of the church. I can think of no more helpful place to start for anyone who wants to find out how to read, understand and apply the message of the Bible. I pray that this book gets the attention and widespread use that it deserves for the sake of Christ and his kingdom.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gary Millar, Principal, Queensland Theological College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Phil Heaps, full-time elder, Grace Church Yate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you rarely venture outside the New Testament (NT) then this little book may be just what you need. In a clear, enthusiastic way, Goldsworthy takes us on a tour through the Old Testament (OT) showing us how it points forward to Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe starts with the importance of the OT to the NT and alerts us to several wrong approaches to the OT. The following chapters then provide a helpful overview of the OT, its storyline, and various key themes. 'The Kingdom of God' is seen as the Bible's overarching theme, without insisting that this is the only way to organise its message.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe shows how OT history initially reveals the kingdom and how, as that history takes a turn for the worse, the prophets point forward to the glorious reality foreshadowed there. Later chapters look in detail at key events, Genesis, the historical books, wisdom literature, and prophets, leading to a chapter on 'Jesus Christ the fulfiller'. The final chapter is very practical and strikes an excellent balance in various ways: start with prayer but study hard; read for the big picture but also examine texts closely; remember that Scripture is firstly 'God's Word about God's deed in bringing in his kingdom', but also make personal and practical applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoldsworthy covers a lot of helpful ground - including many Scripture passages - in a brisk, straightforward manner, with plenty of tips and diagrams. His nine-page summary of the OT storyline is particularly helpful, as well as his treatment of 'the day of the Lord', and the way in which the NT must control our understanding of OT fulfilment. The book reads simply, though its approach is not simplistic but carefully nuanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn a few points I found myself disagreeing with Goldsworthy's approach or emphasis (eg there was little sense of Paul's Galatians 3 tension between the Promise and the Law) but it was often on questions of where exactly to get the balance. As an introduction to the Old Testament it is an excellent book, and highly recommended for young Christians, or those who feel they have not yet 'got their arms around' the first two-thirds of God's glorious word.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Phil Heaps, full-time elder, Grace Church Yate\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Jesus Through the Old Testament: Transform your Bible understanding
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Confident in the Old Testament? Enjoying reading it? Happy to preach from it? In this engaging book, Graeme Goldsworthy reflects...
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{"id":3280107274340,"title":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers","handle":"servant-ministry-a-portrait-of-christ-and-a-pattern-for-his-followers","description":"\u003cp\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-10-19T17:29:01+01:00","created_at":"2019-04-09T12:02:28+01:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Jun-19","Leadership","Pastoral care"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":26454556409956,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468864","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Servant Ministry: A portrait of Christ and a pattern for his followers - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":188,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468864","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3264958300299,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857468864-l.jpg?v=1554807788","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eServanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood means is vital for the health and well-being of local churches. Every member needs to appreciate their role as a servant of God. At the same time, the principles of servant leadership provide an essential framework for those called specifically to the work of the Church, whether at home or overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry offers a practical exposition of the first 'Servant Song' based in Isaiah (42:1-9). Writing from many years of Christian teaching and mentoring, Tony Horsfall applies insights drawn from the Isaiah passage to topics such as the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant; how to keep going over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God on a daily basis and also over a whole lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people around the world have been inspired and refreshed by Tony Horsfall's teaching and mentoring. As well as working as an international freelance trainer and retreat leader, he has written a number of other books for BRF, including Rhythms of Grace, Mentoring for Spiritual Growth and Working from a Place of Rest. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContents\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's identity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Behold my servant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Emptied and humbled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Chosen and loved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Servants one and all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's calling\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 The Spirit upon him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Justice, the suffering servant and the law of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Justice, the compassionate servant and the needs of the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's character\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The servant as leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Humility, and the danger of pride\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Gentleness, and the temptations of power\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Faithfulness, and the challenge of pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's confidence\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 The God who speaks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 God's presence to reassure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 God's protection to guard\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 God's purpose to guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Servant's attentiveness\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Listening and responding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the introduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServant Ministry is based on the first Servant Song in Isaiah (42:1-9) and could be described as a practical exposition of this passage. My intention is to explain the meaning of the text and then to apply its teaching to the biblical theme of servanthood. It will lead us quite naturally to explore some significant topics: the motivation for service and the call to serve; valid expressions of servanthood and the link between evangelism and social action; character formation and what it means to be a servant, especially in leadership; how to sustain ourselves over the long haul in the harsh realities of ministry; the importance of listening to God and being directed by him in what we do, both on a daily basis and over the course of a lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy basic assumption throughout is that servanthood is for all believers, not just for those in some form of 'full-time' ministry, and I hope this comes across clearly because it is vital for the health and vitality of local churches that every member appreciates and understands his or her role as a servant of God. At the same time, my focus will be on those in Christian leadership and crosscultural ministry for whom the call to serve has led to significant life changes that impact them on a daily basis. Inevitably we will cover the topic of servant leadership, and I hope we might grasp the principles behind it in a fresh way while avoiding some of the common misconceptions and distortions. It is my strong conviction that servant leadership is vital for the well-being and effectiveness of any church or Christian organisation in the 21st century. For me, Christian leadership is synonymous with servant leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will approach the Servant Song through two lenses, seeing it first of all as a portrait of Christ and secondly as a pattern for his followers. Jesus shows us through his life on earth what it means to be a servant, and he perfectly fulfils the picture painted for us in Isaiah. He is an example to us of true servanthood, and we are called with God's help to imitate him: 'Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Servanthood can never be an optional extra in the Christian life; it is its foundation stone, and all disciples of Jesus must see themselves as servants. Peter says it clearly: 'Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover up for evil; live as servants of God' (1 Peter 2:16).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForeword by Rob Hay, Principal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn September 2010 Tony Horsfall came and led a staff retreat at Redcliffe College, ahead of the start of the academic year . The retreat was called 'Time to Stop' but it took place about five days before the students started arriving - we didn't really have time to stop! But his focus on our identity and purpose, and his unpacking of the resources available to us, allowed us both individually and corporately to remember during that particularly challenging year, to stop, reflect and reengage afresh in God's service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on servanthood that presents a truly biblical view of servanthood - not like being some kind of nice, benign auntie for whom nothing is too much trouble, but rather as a call to live as God intends us to live. I teach a postgraduate class on leadership and I sometimes tell the students that I get fed up with talk of servant leadership, partly because I see many other metaphors for leadership in scripture but also because I think Christians have misunderstood servant leadership and servanthood generally! Tony, however, has not..\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live and serve secure. Tony starts with identity and calling. This is vital: we need to know who we are: both the reality of frailty and our status as children of the living God loved by a Father who delights in his children. He goes onto justice and compassion - two concepts that often get separated by Christian writers because they find them hard to hold in tension. Tony, however, does not...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod intends us to live confidently. Servants serve a master (in our case the Lord), not every person we bump into. Knowing how God wants us to serve him in each and every situation we find ourselves - whether it demands compassion or righteous anger, clear leadership or wise counsel - is vital to effective Christian living. To be able to do it in confidence because we know who we are and who we are called to be, allows us to serve effectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony has served the church so well in the writing of this book. It has the potential to make the church a better bride of Christ and each individual Christian a closer reflection of Jesus this side of heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRob Hay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrincipal, Redcliffe College\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer and retreat leader, whose work regularly takes him around the world. He has written a number of books for BRF, including Mentoring for Spiritual Growth, Working from a Place of Rest and Rhythms of Grace. He also contributes to New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Hannah Prosser, January 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s book on Servant Ministry is at once an inspirational, devotional book and simultaneously a deeply challenging one. On the one hand it is very readable, accessible and easy to digest but, as soon as you apply the principles and determine action points for life, then the depth of content becomes highly apparent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it springboards from Isaiah 42, it dances throughout all of the Scriptures to provide a comprehensive overview of servanthood in the Bible. It shows that our concept of servanthood is culturally conditioned and colours our view of the above passages. We are challenged to shift from our western hierarchical perspective to one honouring the value and purpose of the one who serves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to challenging our personal beliefs and behaviours, it also brings a fresh view of Christ, encouraging a deeper relationship with Him who served gladly and without reluctance. As we model ourselves on the Jesus shown beautifully in the Servant Song, I was personally confronted with the need to lay aside more of me. Whilst challenging, it is also encouraging, reminding us of the unconditional love of God. Though relevant to all Christians, it particularly provides a challenging fresh perspective on Christian leadership, which is greatly needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHannah Prosser: Co-Director - HASMissions, Member Care Team Leader - AOG Missions Team\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview of second edition by Richard Frost, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2013, \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry \u003c\/em\u003eis Tony Horsfall’s exploration of the meaning of servanthood in the first servant song from Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking good use of a wide range of other Biblical references, the author demonstrates that Christ is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy. \u003cem\u003eServant Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e helps the reader to reflect on the words of Isaiah 42:1-9 and also to sit with and understand the true servant nature of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs another reviewer has observed, this is not a book to read in one sitting. Indeed, the short chapters make it digestible and aid the devotional approach which Tony Horsfall suggests. By using non-academic language, he presents a thorough analysis of what the Bible has to say about servanthood and how Christ is the Servant, the chosen one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring the origins of servanthood (including the Old Testament understanding of slavery) and the concept that one is a servant not only to superiors but to other people, the book also considers how, as servants, we are to prepare others for servanthood. Tony Horsfall also makes the link between servanthood and justice, suffering, compassion and gentleness. ‘Here is the heart of servanthood,’ he writes, ‘the selfless giving of oneself to meet the needs of others.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter on ‘The servant as leader’ is especially powerful and provocative; equally perceptive and helpful is the chapter on’ Humility, and the danger of pride’. The author also addresses the abusive nature of power and how this is often caused by insecure leaders who get carried away by their own success but are seldom challenged. The actuality of pain and suffering for those who are servant leaders is also sensitively acknowledged. ‘The best leaders are servants at heart, and service, rather than position or power, is their starting point.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sections explore how God speaks in different ways, how he provides a reassuring, protective hand and how he guides us: helpful reminders for those times when lose sight of who we are in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Confidence in ministry is not self-confidence; it is confidence in our relationship with God and in his ability to sustain us.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough focusing on those whose ministry is in a church or Christian setting there is much which could be taken from this book and applied in secular environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ____________________________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTAR News. Diocese of Peterborough April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat does it mean to be a servant of the Lord Jesus? How is our character formed by serving Him? How do we keep going when ministry seems so daunting at times? Why is it important to listen to God each day? This book, which draws on Isaiah 42:1-9, is full of encouragement, enlightenment and practical insights to serve with confidence. This is a deep, reflective read that has helped me to be true to my calling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRona Orme. Children's Missioner Diocese of Peterborough\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe the unhappiest people on the planet are Christians who don't serve. For in our regeneration, we are wired to serve. For Jesus is the one who said, 'I am among you as one who serves.' Intimacy with Jesus and activity for him make for the best combination of Christian usefulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistics would tell us that servant is mention in scripture over 600 times, whilst leader is only mentioned 3 times. This desperate imbalance is at the heart of our ability to make a prevailing Christian impact in our nation and beyond. Tony Horsfall's newest book speaks powerfully to this. He offers warm, faithful and close work in Isaiah 42, at the heart of this useful title. The pithy reflections following each chapter add significant value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new BRF offering is steadfast, engaging and challenging. The section on motivations is particularly helpful. When speaking of the servant's attentiveness, in the last chapter, around 'listening and responding' I would have loved more here, as this was especially strong. The phrase from 1 Peter 2 will live on long, through Horsfall's faithful efforts here: 'live as servants of God!'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rev'd Dr Johnny Douglas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking the first Servant Song in Isaiah 42 as his springboard the author leads his readers gently and carefully into a fuller picture of Christ and sets out steps on how to imitate the Suffering Servant as well as showing the pitfalls of ministry for those who feel secure in their service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot best read at one sitting, the different sections - the Servant's Identity, Calling, Character and Confidence - are helpful reflections not simply for those beginning ministry but also for those who have grown old in unhelpful kinds of church leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found the section on Character particularly challenging as it described the great temptation to prides which comes with success. The very short yet poignant questions for reflection at the end of each chapter and in the study notes add greatly to the book and readers would do well to work through them in the pages of a personal journal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA useful one page Appendix on the characteristics of abusive systems in churches and Christian organisations deserves wide circulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Andrew Dotchin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Servanthood is something to which all believers are called, not just those in full-time ministry, and so understanding what servanthood...
{"id":2439823786084,"title":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle","handle":"living-differently-to-make-a-difference-the-beatitudes-and-countercultural-lifestyle","description":"\u003cp\u003eFew would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent a Saviour, Jesus Christ, who calls us, in the beatitudes, to live an authentic, countercultural lifestyle. By being different we can make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Through living the beatitudes, we could make the world a better place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l-woNgQmdBA\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving been in parish ministry for 25 years, Will Donaldson is Chaplain and Senior Welfare Officer of St Edmund Hall, Oxford University. He is also Area Dean of Oxford and Director of Pastoral Care at St Aldates Church. He is the author of Word and Spirit (BRF, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Meetings Magazine, April 2019. Review by Felicity Bayne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn his foreword Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, writes that ‘There are signs that the beatitudes are coming back into focus in the life of the church as a text for the 21st century.’ Will Donaldson suggests that all our social, political and technological problems connect to the same root cause – chronic lifestyle dysfunction – and then explores a solution based on Jesus’ teaching in the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter sets one of the beatitudes in its biblical context, particularly as it relates to Isaiah 61, the Old Testament passage that Jesus read in the synagogue at Nazareth to announce the arrival of the Messiah. In each chapter one beatitude is put alongside a current or historical character or context, before leading the reader into considering how that beatitude might apply in their own lives, to the benefit of the world. Chapters 8 and 9 lead us to reflect on Jesus’ words of encouragement to his followers to be salt and light in the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters end with thoughtful, helpful questions, and suggestions for reflection alone, or within a small group. This would work well for a Lent group, taking two chapters each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonaldson’s writing is both informative and challenging: an opportunity for serious study and reflection. He provides a pithy guide to Christians who wish their faith in Jesus to make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world, a step at a time. It’s not always a comfortable read, but practising our faith in line with the beatitudes is always an uncomfortable, but hopefully creative, challenge towards building the church of the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Felicity Bayne \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Ben Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe beatitudes are the series of teachings by Jesus at the start of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's gospel. They are sayings where the hierarchies of the world and the hierarchies of the heart are turned upside down. We are called to become people who are poor, meek (or gentle), merciful and pure in heart. Will Donaldson has written a passionate and engaging study of how we are called to live the beatitudes in a world where the idols of power and status are prevalent. The book has some probing questions to ask of aspects of our modern society and our modern selves. Why are we fixated on ideals of success? Why is so much modern culture obsessed with revenge? Donaldson shows how living out of the beatitudes, embracing vulnerability and spiritual poverty in our lives, embodies a joyful alternative to our cultural norms. Occasionally I found the presentation a little moralistic. His interpretation, for example that being pure in heart meant simply living with integrity struck me as reductive. Being pure can also mean being uncluttered and therefore able to see the divine more clearly. But this is a book which makes you ask transformative questions of yourself and your society and gives you, or a reading group, the opportunity to take Christi's teaching personally and embark on the daily adventure of following him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ben Brown\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Oxford. Review by Kate Seagrave\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would appear to be a brave undertaking to write a book on such a famous passage as the beatitudes and on such topics that so many have tackled before, but Will does so with originality and confidence. This easy to read book follows the standard mixed format of so many of BRF's publications, being a combination of an individual devotional read, a small group Bible study, and an introductory guide to this famous passage of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis extensive experience in pastoral care and discipleship shines through his approach and his challenge to the reader to a more distinctively and holistic Christian life. Topics covered challenge both our inner lives and 'secret' attitudes as well as our more outward and visible actions and service. The structure of each chapter stands alone, which makes dipping in and out as well as selecting chapters of particular interest entirely possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format makes this a quick and easy read, with plenty of illustrations from history, politics, culture, sport and literature. The individual devotions and group discussion questions provide ample invitation and space for pausing and thinking, even when read outside of a more intentional devotional or group study setting. The group questions are particularly accessible and appropriate to a group which had never done a similar study before, with a range of suggested options catering to timings from 15 minutes to an hour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strength of this book is in the pastoral experience of the writer. His intuitive understanding and deep conviction that the presence of inner faith must be accompanied by a transformational impact upon the world around us (however big or small that world may be) shapes the way that he guides the reader through the chapters. If you are looking for an approach to the beatitudes which is easy to read, yet challenges you to pause and think and examine the lifestyle choices we make day to day, then this is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Kate Seagrave, Mission Priest at the Community of St Frideswide in Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald, October 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book, Will Donaldson, a chaplain in Oxford University, explores the beatitudes taught by Jesus during his sermon on the mount, and suggests ways in which we can apply them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat struck me about this book is that every chapter is so well researched and, as a result, Donaldson is able to explain each beatitude in the context of our history and the world in which we exist today. Scripture is woven throughout each chapter and the author draws heavily from Isaiah 61 throughout the book, as the Old Testament basis of the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter concludes with prompts for personal reflection, prayerful response and discussion for small groups, including a starter (questions to be considered over a 15-minute period), a main course (allowing for a 60-minute discussion) and concluding with dessert (another 15 minutes of discussion). While I used this book to aid my own time of devotion, I believe it would be an excellent basis for a book group or discipleship group to study the beatitudes together and decipher what the application of them looks like in their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this to be a very challenging and beneficial read. It reinforced that as Christians, it is not for us to conform to the cultural narrative but rather to be 'set apart' for God, as has always been his desire for his people. This book is one of the most helpful books I have read for a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:18+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:19+00:00","vendor":"Will Donaldson","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Group reading","Kindle","May-18","Mission"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770140188772,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466716","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466716","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466716-l.jpg?v=1549043120"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466716-l.jpg?v=1549043120","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238881558667,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466716-l.jpg?v=1549043120"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466716-l.jpg?v=1549043120","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eFew would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent a Saviour, Jesus Christ, who calls us, in the beatitudes, to live an authentic, countercultural lifestyle. By being different we can make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Through living the beatitudes, we could make the world a better place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l-woNgQmdBA\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving been in parish ministry for 25 years, Will Donaldson is Chaplain and Senior Welfare Officer of St Edmund Hall, Oxford University. He is also Area Dean of Oxford and Director of Pastoral Care at St Aldates Church. He is the author of Word and Spirit (BRF, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Meetings Magazine, April 2019. Review by Felicity Bayne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn his foreword Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, writes that ‘There are signs that the beatitudes are coming back into focus in the life of the church as a text for the 21st century.’ Will Donaldson suggests that all our social, political and technological problems connect to the same root cause – chronic lifestyle dysfunction – and then explores a solution based on Jesus’ teaching in the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter sets one of the beatitudes in its biblical context, particularly as it relates to Isaiah 61, the Old Testament passage that Jesus read in the synagogue at Nazareth to announce the arrival of the Messiah. In each chapter one beatitude is put alongside a current or historical character or context, before leading the reader into considering how that beatitude might apply in their own lives, to the benefit of the world. Chapters 8 and 9 lead us to reflect on Jesus’ words of encouragement to his followers to be salt and light in the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters end with thoughtful, helpful questions, and suggestions for reflection alone, or within a small group. This would work well for a Lent group, taking two chapters each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonaldson’s writing is both informative and challenging: an opportunity for serious study and reflection. He provides a pithy guide to Christians who wish their faith in Jesus to make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world, a step at a time. It’s not always a comfortable read, but practising our faith in line with the beatitudes is always an uncomfortable, but hopefully creative, challenge towards building the church of the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Felicity Bayne \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Ben Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe beatitudes are the series of teachings by Jesus at the start of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's gospel. They are sayings where the hierarchies of the world and the hierarchies of the heart are turned upside down. We are called to become people who are poor, meek (or gentle), merciful and pure in heart. Will Donaldson has written a passionate and engaging study of how we are called to live the beatitudes in a world where the idols of power and status are prevalent. The book has some probing questions to ask of aspects of our modern society and our modern selves. Why are we fixated on ideals of success? Why is so much modern culture obsessed with revenge? Donaldson shows how living out of the beatitudes, embracing vulnerability and spiritual poverty in our lives, embodies a joyful alternative to our cultural norms. Occasionally I found the presentation a little moralistic. His interpretation, for example that being pure in heart meant simply living with integrity struck me as reductive. Being pure can also mean being uncluttered and therefore able to see the divine more clearly. But this is a book which makes you ask transformative questions of yourself and your society and gives you, or a reading group, the opportunity to take Christi's teaching personally and embark on the daily adventure of following him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ben Brown\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Oxford. Review by Kate Seagrave\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would appear to be a brave undertaking to write a book on such a famous passage as the beatitudes and on such topics that so many have tackled before, but Will does so with originality and confidence. This easy to read book follows the standard mixed format of so many of BRF's publications, being a combination of an individual devotional read, a small group Bible study, and an introductory guide to this famous passage of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis extensive experience in pastoral care and discipleship shines through his approach and his challenge to the reader to a more distinctively and holistic Christian life. Topics covered challenge both our inner lives and 'secret' attitudes as well as our more outward and visible actions and service. The structure of each chapter stands alone, which makes dipping in and out as well as selecting chapters of particular interest entirely possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format makes this a quick and easy read, with plenty of illustrations from history, politics, culture, sport and literature. The individual devotions and group discussion questions provide ample invitation and space for pausing and thinking, even when read outside of a more intentional devotional or group study setting. The group questions are particularly accessible and appropriate to a group which had never done a similar study before, with a range of suggested options catering to timings from 15 minutes to an hour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strength of this book is in the pastoral experience of the writer. His intuitive understanding and deep conviction that the presence of inner faith must be accompanied by a transformational impact upon the world around us (however big or small that world may be) shapes the way that he guides the reader through the chapters. If you are looking for an approach to the beatitudes which is easy to read, yet challenges you to pause and think and examine the lifestyle choices we make day to day, then this is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Kate Seagrave, Mission Priest at the Community of St Frideswide in Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald, October 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book, Will Donaldson, a chaplain in Oxford University, explores the beatitudes taught by Jesus during his sermon on the mount, and suggests ways in which we can apply them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat struck me about this book is that every chapter is so well researched and, as a result, Donaldson is able to explain each beatitude in the context of our history and the world in which we exist today. Scripture is woven throughout each chapter and the author draws heavily from Isaiah 61 throughout the book, as the Old Testament basis of the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter concludes with prompts for personal reflection, prayerful response and discussion for small groups, including a starter (questions to be considered over a 15-minute period), a main course (allowing for a 60-minute discussion) and concluding with dessert (another 15 minutes of discussion). While I used this book to aid my own time of devotion, I believe it would be an excellent basis for a book group or discipleship group to study the beatitudes together and decipher what the application of them looks like in their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this to be a very challenging and beneficial read. It reinforced that as Christians, it is not for us to conform to the cultural narrative but rather to be 'set apart' for God, as has always been his desire for his people. This book is one of the most helpful books I have read for a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle
£8.99
Few would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent a Saviour, Jesus Christ,...
{"id":2439828766820,"title":"The Psalms: A commentary for prayer and reflection","handle":"the-psalms-a-commentary-for-prayer-and-reflection","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe psalms are Israel's prayer book. Their origins are in many cases shrouded in mystery. We cannot be sure how they were selected or collected or how most were used. They cover the whole sweep of Israel's history and spirituality echoing the very earliest periods of the nation's life right up to the laments of the Babylonian exile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey speak of the joy of pilgrimage to Jerusalem; they tell of great victories and defeat, of individual achievement and failure, of release and deliverance, of love for the law and repentance from sin, of a God at work in nature and throughout the nation's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCovering all 150 Psalms, these bite-sized devotions, which were first published in BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes series, have been revised and expanded. They draw on Henry Wansbrough's years of living and working in the Middle East to provide insight into the historical, literary and cultural background of the Psalms as well as showing how these ancient texts can still guide and inspire you in your Christian walk today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDom Henry Wansbrough OSB is based at Ampleforth Abbey, teaching at Ampleforth school and currently serving as Alexander Jones Professor of Biblical Studies at Liverpool Hope University. He is a contributor to Guidelines Bible reading notes and is a former Master of St Benet's Hall, Oxford.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Alexander Murray, University College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book’s two most striking qualities complement each other. One is its author’s knowledge. Event to those otherwise unacquainted with Fr Henry and his work, it is obvious that he is thoroughly conversant with the Hebrew language and environment. He never lets us forget that the psalms began life in Hebrew. He often clarifies a word by giving us its Hebrew original and, where he thinks it constructive to do so, he offers his guess as to a psalm’s original context. This easy familiarity extends to the psalm’s physical environment. A good example is on p.176, but it is one of many, unobtrusively dropped in to the exposition to make it clearer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second quality is complementary to it. It is clarity of exposition. The reader never has to look back to see what a sentence means. One educational publisher I knew made it a rule not to publish books unless the author was a practising teacher. I do not know how much teaching Fr Henry now does, but his writing style is such that he must often have had to explain potentially obscure points to students still in their teens. His book is an ‘easy read’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFr Henry has said a lot, and from a lot of angles, within the limits of a short book. I am delighted to have it in my library, have already often turned to it, and I am sure I will go on doing so.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alexander Murray, University College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:39+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:40+00:00","vendor":"Henry Wansbrough","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","Mar-14","Prayer"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770228039780,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781841016481","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Psalms: A commentary for prayer and reflection - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":231,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781841016481","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841016481-l.jpg?v=1549043116"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841016481-l.jpg?v=1549043116","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238881984651,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841016481-l.jpg?v=1549043116"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841016481-l.jpg?v=1549043116","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThe psalms are Israel's prayer book. Their origins are in many cases shrouded in mystery. We cannot be sure how they were selected or collected or how most were used. They cover the whole sweep of Israel's history and spirituality echoing the very earliest periods of the nation's life right up to the laments of the Babylonian exile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey speak of the joy of pilgrimage to Jerusalem; they tell of great victories and defeat, of individual achievement and failure, of release and deliverance, of love for the law and repentance from sin, of a God at work in nature and throughout the nation's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCovering all 150 Psalms, these bite-sized devotions, which were first published in BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes series, have been revised and expanded. They draw on Henry Wansbrough's years of living and working in the Middle East to provide insight into the historical, literary and cultural background of the Psalms as well as showing how these ancient texts can still guide and inspire you in your Christian walk today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDom Henry Wansbrough OSB is based at Ampleforth Abbey, teaching at Ampleforth school and currently serving as Alexander Jones Professor of Biblical Studies at Liverpool Hope University. He is a contributor to Guidelines Bible reading notes and is a former Master of St Benet's Hall, Oxford.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Alexander Murray, University College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book’s two most striking qualities complement each other. One is its author’s knowledge. Event to those otherwise unacquainted with Fr Henry and his work, it is obvious that he is thoroughly conversant with the Hebrew language and environment. He never lets us forget that the psalms began life in Hebrew. He often clarifies a word by giving us its Hebrew original and, where he thinks it constructive to do so, he offers his guess as to a psalm’s original context. This easy familiarity extends to the psalm’s physical environment. A good example is on p.176, but it is one of many, unobtrusively dropped in to the exposition to make it clearer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second quality is complementary to it. It is clarity of exposition. The reader never has to look back to see what a sentence means. One educational publisher I knew made it a rule not to publish books unless the author was a practising teacher. I do not know how much teaching Fr Henry now does, but his writing style is such that he must often have had to explain potentially obscure points to students still in their teens. His book is an ‘easy read’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFr Henry has said a lot, and from a lot of angles, within the limits of a short book. I am delighted to have it in my library, have already often turned to it, and I am sure I will go on doing so.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alexander Murray, University College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Psalms: A commentary for prayer and reflection
£9.99
The psalms are Israel's prayer book. Their origins are in many cases shrouded in mystery. We cannot be sure how...
{"id":2439823261796,"title":"What Would Jesus Post?: A Biblical approach to online interaction","handle":"what-would-jesus-post-a-biblical-approach-to-online-interaction","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf Jesus had access to the internet, what would he post? And, as importantly, what wouldn't he post? This book asks the intriguing questions of those who engage with the internet, which biblical principles inform its use, and how might Christians steward their online presence?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Robertson is vicar of South Ossett, West Yorkshire. He has ministered in rural, suburban and urban deprived parishes and, as a graduate in Biblical Studies, he is primarily a Bible teacher. He has written several books, as well as daily Bible readings for BRF.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnvil vol 36 issue 1. April 2020. Review by Mary Kells\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis short and accessible book applies biblical principles to online life, reminding the reader that being online is not ‘downtime’ from faith, but an arena, rather, in which faith can be enacted, and in which it can also be tested. It is only towards the end that we discover that the book was written as a result of a damaging online experience. The book is designed for individuals, parents, youth and church leaders and could be used in a group or by individuals. It identifies three generations of online users: the tech-immigrants, pre-dating the advent of the World Wide Web in 1990, and more comfortable offline; tech-assimilators, who have learned to make use of online resources; and the tech-indigenous, who have never known anything else. The book is intended for all\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ethree groups, spelling out basic concepts to facilitate the tech-immigrants, but challenging the tech-indigenous to re-think their online behaviour. A key question is: are we being conformed to online culture, or prepared to be a transformative presence, reflecting counter-cultural Christian values?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe individual chapters spell out the nature of the online environment and its temptations and consequences, including such perils as trolls and digital porn, and offer helpful tools and biblical resources. Each chapter follows the same simple structure, combining reflection and action. The chapters begin by outlining a particular issue or challenge, then suggest specific Bible passages which address it, and finish with a set of questions, for discussion, reflection or to prompt action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book one would wish were not necessary, as its premises at one level seem so obvious, and yet, it clearly is. It encourages everyone to recognise online life as a powerful reality, but one that must be integrated into the greater reality of a life lived in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eRev Dr Mary Kells, St Faith’s, Lee-on-the-Solent\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times. 31 August 2018. Review by Bryony Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a simple guide to thinking biblically about one's online interactions. I imagine that it would be helpful for church leaders who are realising that they need to engage with the internet and all the attendant issues that might affect people's discipleship, but who might not know where to start. If you already use social media and the internet a great deal, you may find it a little simplistic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book covers a wide range of themes, such as prayer, taking a sabbath, gossip, pornography and bullying, and then looks at what they might mean online. The aim is to help the reader think 'What would Jesus post?', updating the '90s slogan for the next generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobertson makes an interesting point about hypocrisy that, as online lives blend with offline lives, it is becoming harder to live a double life -- and that is a good thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore could have been said about the benefits of the internet and social media for pastoral care and discipleship: for example, the way in which the housebound and those with mental health problems and disabilities have access to church communities online; or the way in which apps, such as the YouVersion Bible app or PrayerMate, can support spiritual development. Neither of these apps is mentioned in the chapter on prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobertson helpfully explains what the book is and is not. Unfortunately, he does this in the afterword rather than the introduction; so it is a good idea to read the afterword first. The book is structured in such a way that the reader can dip in and out of it easily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA few relevant chapters could be used as material fo ra small group Bible study, or even a short course. I would recommend it to a congregation who, perhaps, are feeling a generational divide around the use of technology and would like a way of approachig discipleship in this area together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Reverend Bryony Taylor is the author of 'Sharing Faith Using Social Media' (Grove, 2016) and a priest in the diocese of Derby.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlog review by The Revd Kate Wharton 01.09.18\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was a really interesting book to read and review. There are so many conflicting thoughts and opinions around about social media and the whole online world. Some people think it's the best thing since sliced bread, a fabulous gospel opportunity, a way to reach out and spread the good news and connect with people you wouldn't otherwise meet. Some people think it's the work of the devil, all about spreading lies and hate and evil, bringing out the worst in people and distracting us from the real work of the kingdom. The truth, inevitably, probably lies somewhere in between those two extremes. Like many things, social media and the internet can be used for good or for evil, and there are plenty of people and organisations doing both of those things.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would be easy to assume that the Bible has nothing to say about the online world - after all computers and electricity couldn't even have been dreamed of during the time the Bible was written, let alone the internet. But it's vital as Christians that we consider what God thinks about all aspects of life, and that we weigh up what we do and say and think in the light of what we know to be true. This is what theology does - it enables us to look at an aspect of life in our world and to consider it within the gaze of God, asking ourselves what he wishes to say to us about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is what David Robertson has sought to do in this new book: \u003cem\u003eWhat Would Jesus Post? - A Biblical Approach to Online Interaction\u003c\/em\u003e. Personally, I'm a big fan of social media, as you'll know if you follow me, and have been assailed by multiple posts on anything from chocolate to church to squirrels to fencing to gin to Jesus... and much more! So, I was fascinated to read what David Robertson had to say, and to see what he thought Jesus would have made of the world of social media.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy own view is that Jesus would have been all over social media - he was never one to shy away from a chance to interact with people, after all. He was always where the people were - even when that meant being in a place that the 'good', righteous, religious people felt that he shouldn't have been. Of course, Jesus would have used his social media accounts without sinning, as he did everything - unfortunately that's something I can't claim to have always managed, and I doubt whether any of us have. But in 2018 I simply don't think that we can declare the whole online world to be morally bankrupt and declare that we want nothing to do with it. The internet isn't going anywhere, and I believe that we need to understand it and engage with it - in a way that's shaped around and formed by what we know to be true of God's kingdom rule. So, what might that look like?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really liked how practical the book was, and that it's structured in such a clear and readable way. It constantly refers back to the truths and wisdom of the Bible, and it is also totally up to date and relevant to 21st century life and culture. There are helpful tips about how we can all make better use of social media in our kingdom ministry, and there are also important challenges as to just how we come across, how we engage, how we interact. We're reminded to 'pray before posting' and to think about the responsibilities as well as the opportunities that come with having a 'personal digital pulpit.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall advice from this book is that it's important for Christians as individuals, and for churches as organisations, to engage on social media, and to make the most of all that is offered by it. But crucially we're also encouraged to be wise, discerning, humble, hospitable and generous as we do so. There's also a really important and interesting challenge about our overuse of\/reliance on all things online, and an encouragement to consider an occasional 'digital sabbath.' Ultimately, we're reminded that we are 'stewards of a digital footprint.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall I think this is an important and timely book for Christians. I haven't come across anything quite like it before and it definitely gave me a lot of food for thought. I'm very much pro all things internet (well, most things...!) but this has given me some important new ideas, and questions to ask, for which I'm grateful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKate Wharton is Vicar of St. Bartholomew's Church in Roby, Liverpool, and Assistant National Leader of New Wine England\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:44:06+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:17+00:00","vendor":"David Robertson","type":"Paperback","tags":["Church life","Kindle"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21770133766244,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466648","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7437016170596,"product_id":2439823261796,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:25:17+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:20+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120","variant_ids":[21770133766244]},"available":true,"name":"What Would Jesus Post?: A Biblical approach to online interaction - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":193,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466648","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238881525899,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238881525899,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466648-l.jpg?v=1549043120","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIf Jesus had access to the internet, what would he post? And, as importantly, what wouldn't he post? This book asks the intriguing questions of those who engage with the internet, which biblical principles inform its use, and how might Christians steward their online presence?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Robertson is vicar of South Ossett, West Yorkshire. He has ministered in rural, suburban and urban deprived parishes and, as a graduate in Biblical Studies, he is primarily a Bible teacher. He has written several books, as well as daily Bible readings for BRF.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnvil vol 36 issue 1. April 2020. Review by Mary Kells\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis short and accessible book applies biblical principles to online life, reminding the reader that being online is not ‘downtime’ from faith, but an arena, rather, in which faith can be enacted, and in which it can also be tested. It is only towards the end that we discover that the book was written as a result of a damaging online experience. The book is designed for individuals, parents, youth and church leaders and could be used in a group or by individuals. It identifies three generations of online users: the tech-immigrants, pre-dating the advent of the World Wide Web in 1990, and more comfortable offline; tech-assimilators, who have learned to make use of online resources; and the tech-indigenous, who have never known anything else. The book is intended for all\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ethree groups, spelling out basic concepts to facilitate the tech-immigrants, but challenging the tech-indigenous to re-think their online behaviour. A key question is: are we being conformed to online culture, or prepared to be a transformative presence, reflecting counter-cultural Christian values?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe individual chapters spell out the nature of the online environment and its temptations and consequences, including such perils as trolls and digital porn, and offer helpful tools and biblical resources. Each chapter follows the same simple structure, combining reflection and action. The chapters begin by outlining a particular issue or challenge, then suggest specific Bible passages which address it, and finish with a set of questions, for discussion, reflection or to prompt action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book one would wish were not necessary, as its premises at one level seem so obvious, and yet, it clearly is. It encourages everyone to recognise online life as a powerful reality, but one that must be integrated into the greater reality of a life lived in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eRev Dr Mary Kells, St Faith’s, Lee-on-the-Solent\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times. 31 August 2018. Review by Bryony Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a simple guide to thinking biblically about one's online interactions. I imagine that it would be helpful for church leaders who are realising that they need to engage with the internet and all the attendant issues that might affect people's discipleship, but who might not know where to start. If you already use social media and the internet a great deal, you may find it a little simplistic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book covers a wide range of themes, such as prayer, taking a sabbath, gossip, pornography and bullying, and then looks at what they might mean online. The aim is to help the reader think 'What would Jesus post?', updating the '90s slogan for the next generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobertson makes an interesting point about hypocrisy that, as online lives blend with offline lives, it is becoming harder to live a double life -- and that is a good thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore could have been said about the benefits of the internet and social media for pastoral care and discipleship: for example, the way in which the housebound and those with mental health problems and disabilities have access to church communities online; or the way in which apps, such as the YouVersion Bible app or PrayerMate, can support spiritual development. Neither of these apps is mentioned in the chapter on prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobertson helpfully explains what the book is and is not. Unfortunately, he does this in the afterword rather than the introduction; so it is a good idea to read the afterword first. The book is structured in such a way that the reader can dip in and out of it easily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA few relevant chapters could be used as material fo ra small group Bible study, or even a short course. I would recommend it to a congregation who, perhaps, are feeling a generational divide around the use of technology and would like a way of approachig discipleship in this area together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Reverend Bryony Taylor is the author of 'Sharing Faith Using Social Media' (Grove, 2016) and a priest in the diocese of Derby.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlog review by The Revd Kate Wharton 01.09.18\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was a really interesting book to read and review. There are so many conflicting thoughts and opinions around about social media and the whole online world. Some people think it's the best thing since sliced bread, a fabulous gospel opportunity, a way to reach out and spread the good news and connect with people you wouldn't otherwise meet. Some people think it's the work of the devil, all about spreading lies and hate and evil, bringing out the worst in people and distracting us from the real work of the kingdom. The truth, inevitably, probably lies somewhere in between those two extremes. Like many things, social media and the internet can be used for good or for evil, and there are plenty of people and organisations doing both of those things.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would be easy to assume that the Bible has nothing to say about the online world - after all computers and electricity couldn't even have been dreamed of during the time the Bible was written, let alone the internet. But it's vital as Christians that we consider what God thinks about all aspects of life, and that we weigh up what we do and say and think in the light of what we know to be true. This is what theology does - it enables us to look at an aspect of life in our world and to consider it within the gaze of God, asking ourselves what he wishes to say to us about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is what David Robertson has sought to do in this new book: \u003cem\u003eWhat Would Jesus Post? - A Biblical Approach to Online Interaction\u003c\/em\u003e. Personally, I'm a big fan of social media, as you'll know if you follow me, and have been assailed by multiple posts on anything from chocolate to church to squirrels to fencing to gin to Jesus... and much more! So, I was fascinated to read what David Robertson had to say, and to see what he thought Jesus would have made of the world of social media.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy own view is that Jesus would have been all over social media - he was never one to shy away from a chance to interact with people, after all. He was always where the people were - even when that meant being in a place that the 'good', righteous, religious people felt that he shouldn't have been. Of course, Jesus would have used his social media accounts without sinning, as he did everything - unfortunately that's something I can't claim to have always managed, and I doubt whether any of us have. But in 2018 I simply don't think that we can declare the whole online world to be morally bankrupt and declare that we want nothing to do with it. The internet isn't going anywhere, and I believe that we need to understand it and engage with it - in a way that's shaped around and formed by what we know to be true of God's kingdom rule. So, what might that look like?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really liked how practical the book was, and that it's structured in such a clear and readable way. It constantly refers back to the truths and wisdom of the Bible, and it is also totally up to date and relevant to 21st century life and culture. There are helpful tips about how we can all make better use of social media in our kingdom ministry, and there are also important challenges as to just how we come across, how we engage, how we interact. We're reminded to 'pray before posting' and to think about the responsibilities as well as the opportunities that come with having a 'personal digital pulpit.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overall advice from this book is that it's important for Christians as individuals, and for churches as organisations, to engage on social media, and to make the most of all that is offered by it. But crucially we're also encouraged to be wise, discerning, humble, hospitable and generous as we do so. There's also a really important and interesting challenge about our overuse of\/reliance on all things online, and an encouragement to consider an occasional 'digital sabbath.' Ultimately, we're reminded that we are 'stewards of a digital footprint.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall I think this is an important and timely book for Christians. I haven't come across anything quite like it before and it definitely gave me a lot of food for thought. I'm very much pro all things internet (well, most things...!) but this has given me some important new ideas, and questions to ask, for which I'm grateful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKate Wharton is Vicar of St. Bartholomew's Church in Roby, Liverpool, and Assistant National Leader of New Wine England\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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What Would Jesus Post?: A Biblical approach to online interaction
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If Jesus had access to the internet, what would he post? And, as importantly, what wouldn't he post? This book...
{"id":2439797276772,"title":"Engaging the Word","handle":"engaging-the-word","description":"\u003cp\u003ePeter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or meditating on the word as it should, and therefore is spiritually malnourished and failing to thrive. Engaging the Word will transform the Bible engagement habits of Christian disciples, improving the health of the church by opening up new opportunities for drawing on God's word and new life as a result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word sets out what biblical literacy means and what it looks like in our contemporary culture, exploring the benefits of biblical literacy for those who follow Jesus and for Christian leaders as local theologians and preachers. It also presents a series of practical explorations of the role of the Bible, which help us to reach up to God, reach in to develop our own identity in Christ and reach out to others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Bible and the word of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBiblical literacy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe mediated Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscipleship and the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching up: spirituality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching in: congregational well-being\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching out: engaging the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a gift of a book! Peter Phillips seems to hold out the Bible to us afresh, drawing us back to the power and grace of the word of God. In this accessible book, he brings vast learning and deep understanding to explore our modern Christian engagement with the Bible. There is challenge and insight for all here, and those who read it will come out enriched, challenged, and inspired to re-engage more deeply with God's word. I shall be recommending this to everyone!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Tanner, Bishop of Berwick \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis thought-provoking book explores the question of what place the Bible does and should have in Christian discipleship. It combines helpful in-depth thinking with an easy to read accessible style and is well worth a read for anyone reflecting on patterns of Christian discipleship in the 21st century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder Theologian in Residence at the Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book Pete Philips takes seriously God, the church and the Bible. In doing so there is a challenge for each us as we face the most pressing question facing the church today - how do we share our experience of God? Pete offers grounded ways in which the Good News can be encountered afresh and offered to the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gareth Powell Secretary of the Methodist Conference \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word is a must for individual disciples and Christian communities. Here in this book, Pete Phillips uses theology, history and practical wisdom to show why. From the first disciples to the digital disciples of the 21st century there is much to learn.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Wilkinson, The Principal, St Johns College, Durham University \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/PeterPhillips_480x480.jpg?v=1676496974\" width=\"269\" height=\"359\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Peter Phillips is a Methodist minister and Director of CODEC, a research centre housed at St John's College, Durham University. For many years, he served as New Testament Tutor on the staff of Cliff College. He has a great interest in the New Testament and in communicating the faith in a digital age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach Magazine (Summer 2018). Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo save readers from becoming stressed by trying to understand the subtitle, Peter has very helpfully opened his introduction with the words: 'This book is about the relationship between the reading of the Bible and following Jesus'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he asks the question, 'Can we be better Christians by engaging more with the Bible?' The fundamental purpose of the bible is surely to inspire mere mortals to aspire to be more like our Saviour and to follow in his footsteps. The problem comes because many people are unfamiliar with biblical language, as it is couched in terms not in everyday use. Hence the purpose of this book is to understand what the Bible is really about, and how we should use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is a call to action. It looks at how, by engaging with the Bible, our understanding of our journey in the Christian life will be transformed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are similar books which seek to achieve the same objectives, mainly by exhorting their readers to follow the instructions laid down in the Bible. This book is different, and to some may seem to be controversial. It argues that the Bible is not a rule book or instruction manual, rather it is a guide to enable followers to 'crank up' their own engines of Christian discipleship, with a few additives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book explores biblical literacy (engagement with the Word of God) and discipleship (engagement with the world). This is not surprising as Peter was a tutor at Cliff College, and among his other 'duties' was encouraging students to engage with the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe uses examples of the writings of Augustine, Aldred and Erasmus, as well as the way in which mystery plays have helped people understand biblical stories. Being a Methodist, it would be remiss of Peter not to have included passages written by John Wesley too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also explores what it means to engage with the Word of God in a world where contemporary communication is focused on the digital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-written, readable book which provides practical advice to those reading the Bible who want to put what they have read to practical use in the world. It is in itself 'engaging' and very worthwhile reading,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine (February 2018). Review by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat place does the Bible have in renewing Christian witness in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century? This book has two basic premises. First, biblical literacy has declined, resulting not only in a lack of biblical knowledge but also in an inability to identify the biblical references which are deeply embedded in western culture. Second, biblical literacy comes not through reading in isolation alone but by reading with others in prayerful discernment of God's address to us today. The first claim is supported by survey findings and, if true - the author suggests - renders the church impotent. The second is supported by appealing to theologians - including Wesley, Bonhoeffer, von Balthasar and Hauerwas - and it inspires the proclamation of the gospel in deed as well as in word. It also results in 'noticing the presence of the word everywhere we look'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristianity, the author argues, possesses a message that cannot be jettisoned in favour of a superficial appeal to the contemporary zeitgeist. Phillips reminds us of the need for shared community values, inspired by the collective hearing of God's word, rather than any quest for personal fulfilment alone. Only this, Phillips believes, can offer redemption to a world increasingly characterised by narratives of destruction through terrorism, violence, displacement, isolation and fragmentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders might feel they know much of this. They might regret that advice on practical implementation comes rather late, and is, perhaps, a little muted. But as the United Reformed Church moves forward with its vision of missional discipleship and its 'Walking the Way: Living the life of Jesus today' emphasis, this book might offer a challenge and an inspiration, as well as a resource, to proclaim the Gospel afresh in our day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy (blogger)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm reviewing a book by a former lecturer and friend, Peter Phillips, known by many as the Director of CODEC in Durham. This book blends two passions of Pete's that I share - biblical literacy and Christian discipleship. \u003cem\u003eEngaging the Word: Biblical literacy and Christian discipleship\u003c\/em\u003e is a hidden gem of a book, bringing together Pete's wide learning, statistics, and a fierce commitment to the Bible. This is a book well worth reading - and spending time with. This book helpfully does three things - gives us a potted understanding of what the Bible is, who is reading it, and why it matters. Let me start with a quote, slightly shortened:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003eThe Bible, Webster said, is 'the vessel which bears God's majestic presence'. Recall too that Augustine had used a similar image: 'Scripture is the vehicle that God provides for us to travel to our true home along the road established by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In the Bible, God comes to address us, to invite us into relationship with him.\u003c\/em\u003e''\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePete begins with a couple of great chapters - The Bible and the word of God and Biblical literacy - that serve as a sort of roadmap for where he's coming from. Throughout both of these chapters, there is a real excitement about the Bible, and the possibilities that come in the Christian life from reading and engaging with it. Pete calls the Bible 'the engine for Christian discipleship', and this is a really helpful image in my mind. Of course, the Bible is more than this (but surely not less than this), and Pete walks us through this and three other understandings of what the Bible 'is'. Having given us a sense of what the Bible is, we turn to the tricky concept of biblical literacy, and without spoiling the book his suggestions are thoroughgoingly Trinitarian, church-oriented and dynamic. This is not just head knowledge - the Bible challenges Christian disciples to be transformed - and this is made clear throughout. Having set the scene with two very helpful chapters (the first is a brilliant explanation in reasonably normal English as to what the Bible is, the latter distilling a complex discussion into a simple output), Pete moves on to two chapters about the way we use the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter three, 'The mediated Bible'\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eis a careful look at how Christians (and others) have engaged with the Bible over time. Pete walks us through a sort of print time machine, looking at key folk in church history and how they engaged with the Bible. We think about 'The Didache' (an early Christian text), Augustine, Aldred, the mystery plays, Erasmus, and Wesley. This chapter makes for an intriguing overview, helping today's reader to root practices of Bible engagement in the past, and also providing food for thought in the way we might approach the Bible today. Chapter four, 'Discipleship and the Bible', is one of the best bits of recent writing on that topic that I've read. Rooted in the words of the Bible, and taking the imagery of the Disciples on the way to Emmaus, Pete makes a strong and passionate case for not just having the Bible as a central part of our discipleship, but thinking about soaking ourselves in it, marinating in it like meat before cooking. With helpful lessons from von Balthasar and Bonhoeffer, Pete encourages us to move from passive to active faith, with the Bible as a key part of that. With this in mind, we readers approach the final part of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final three chapters of 'Engaging the Word' cover the three aspects of discipleship that Pete wants to bring the Bible to bear on: reaching up (spirituality), reaching in (congregational well-being) and reaching out (engaging the world). Key to all of this - and a theme that comes through throughout the book - is community. Or, as Pete puts it, quoting Stanley Hauerwas;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003e'\u003c\/em\u003eA place where God is forming a family out of strangers'. That language resonates with the models of discipleship from Bonhoeffer and von Balthasar: the sense that we become disciples by sharing together in small groups, in communities, learning from one another, becoming friends and family, as we eat and drink and be together. Learning through open commensality, by opening ourselves up to one another and allowing God's word to\u003cem\u003e soak us in his presence\u003c\/em\u003e' From this place - this Bible-drenched community - flows the outpouring of discipleship. Woven in amongst these final three chapters is a deeply biblical emphasis on community and doing the stuff of the Kingdom of God - with some helpful practical suggestions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, then, this is a brilliant book. Pete wears his learning lightly, brings together statistics and concepts in a way that makes a lot of sense, and offers us some excellent practical suggestions. If, like me, you are about to start (or do already) leading a small group, this is a great book to read to shape your thinking. If you are interested in Biblical literacy, or what Christians think of the Bible, then this is a book that is well worth reading. For those involved in church leadership of any kind, even if it feels more practical and less Bible-y than you might like, this is a helpful book to remind us where the engine is, how it works, and why we need to use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy.\u003c\/em\u003e https:\/\/www.thomascreedy.com\/book-review-engaging-the-word\/\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:54:09+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:40+00:00","vendor":"Peter M. Phillips","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For churches","Kindle","Mission"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769714892900,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465832","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Engaging the Word - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":201,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465832","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465832-l.jpg?v=1549043137"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465832-l.jpg?v=1549043137","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879690891,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465832-l.jpg?v=1549043137"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465832-l.jpg?v=1549043137","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003ePeter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or meditating on the word as it should, and therefore is spiritually malnourished and failing to thrive. Engaging the Word will transform the Bible engagement habits of Christian disciples, improving the health of the church by opening up new opportunities for drawing on God's word and new life as a result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word sets out what biblical literacy means and what it looks like in our contemporary culture, exploring the benefits of biblical literacy for those who follow Jesus and for Christian leaders as local theologians and preachers. It also presents a series of practical explorations of the role of the Bible, which help us to reach up to God, reach in to develop our own identity in Christ and reach out to others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Bible and the word of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBiblical literacy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe mediated Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscipleship and the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching up: spirituality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching in: congregational well-being\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching out: engaging the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a gift of a book! Peter Phillips seems to hold out the Bible to us afresh, drawing us back to the power and grace of the word of God. In this accessible book, he brings vast learning and deep understanding to explore our modern Christian engagement with the Bible. There is challenge and insight for all here, and those who read it will come out enriched, challenged, and inspired to re-engage more deeply with God's word. I shall be recommending this to everyone!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Tanner, Bishop of Berwick \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis thought-provoking book explores the question of what place the Bible does and should have in Christian discipleship. It combines helpful in-depth thinking with an easy to read accessible style and is well worth a read for anyone reflecting on patterns of Christian discipleship in the 21st century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder Theologian in Residence at the Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book Pete Philips takes seriously God, the church and the Bible. In doing so there is a challenge for each us as we face the most pressing question facing the church today - how do we share our experience of God? Pete offers grounded ways in which the Good News can be encountered afresh and offered to the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gareth Powell Secretary of the Methodist Conference \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word is a must for individual disciples and Christian communities. Here in this book, Pete Phillips uses theology, history and practical wisdom to show why. From the first disciples to the digital disciples of the 21st century there is much to learn.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Wilkinson, The Principal, St Johns College, Durham University \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/PeterPhillips_480x480.jpg?v=1676496974\" width=\"269\" height=\"359\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Peter Phillips is a Methodist minister and Director of CODEC, a research centre housed at St John's College, Durham University. For many years, he served as New Testament Tutor on the staff of Cliff College. He has a great interest in the New Testament and in communicating the faith in a digital age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach Magazine (Summer 2018). Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo save readers from becoming stressed by trying to understand the subtitle, Peter has very helpfully opened his introduction with the words: 'This book is about the relationship between the reading of the Bible and following Jesus'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he asks the question, 'Can we be better Christians by engaging more with the Bible?' The fundamental purpose of the bible is surely to inspire mere mortals to aspire to be more like our Saviour and to follow in his footsteps. The problem comes because many people are unfamiliar with biblical language, as it is couched in terms not in everyday use. Hence the purpose of this book is to understand what the Bible is really about, and how we should use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is a call to action. It looks at how, by engaging with the Bible, our understanding of our journey in the Christian life will be transformed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are similar books which seek to achieve the same objectives, mainly by exhorting their readers to follow the instructions laid down in the Bible. This book is different, and to some may seem to be controversial. It argues that the Bible is not a rule book or instruction manual, rather it is a guide to enable followers to 'crank up' their own engines of Christian discipleship, with a few additives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book explores biblical literacy (engagement with the Word of God) and discipleship (engagement with the world). This is not surprising as Peter was a tutor at Cliff College, and among his other 'duties' was encouraging students to engage with the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe uses examples of the writings of Augustine, Aldred and Erasmus, as well as the way in which mystery plays have helped people understand biblical stories. Being a Methodist, it would be remiss of Peter not to have included passages written by John Wesley too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also explores what it means to engage with the Word of God in a world where contemporary communication is focused on the digital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-written, readable book which provides practical advice to those reading the Bible who want to put what they have read to practical use in the world. It is in itself 'engaging' and very worthwhile reading,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine (February 2018). Review by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat place does the Bible have in renewing Christian witness in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century? This book has two basic premises. First, biblical literacy has declined, resulting not only in a lack of biblical knowledge but also in an inability to identify the biblical references which are deeply embedded in western culture. Second, biblical literacy comes not through reading in isolation alone but by reading with others in prayerful discernment of God's address to us today. The first claim is supported by survey findings and, if true - the author suggests - renders the church impotent. The second is supported by appealing to theologians - including Wesley, Bonhoeffer, von Balthasar and Hauerwas - and it inspires the proclamation of the gospel in deed as well as in word. It also results in 'noticing the presence of the word everywhere we look'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristianity, the author argues, possesses a message that cannot be jettisoned in favour of a superficial appeal to the contemporary zeitgeist. Phillips reminds us of the need for shared community values, inspired by the collective hearing of God's word, rather than any quest for personal fulfilment alone. Only this, Phillips believes, can offer redemption to a world increasingly characterised by narratives of destruction through terrorism, violence, displacement, isolation and fragmentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders might feel they know much of this. They might regret that advice on practical implementation comes rather late, and is, perhaps, a little muted. But as the United Reformed Church moves forward with its vision of missional discipleship and its 'Walking the Way: Living the life of Jesus today' emphasis, this book might offer a challenge and an inspiration, as well as a resource, to proclaim the Gospel afresh in our day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy (blogger)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm reviewing a book by a former lecturer and friend, Peter Phillips, known by many as the Director of CODEC in Durham. This book blends two passions of Pete's that I share - biblical literacy and Christian discipleship. \u003cem\u003eEngaging the Word: Biblical literacy and Christian discipleship\u003c\/em\u003e is a hidden gem of a book, bringing together Pete's wide learning, statistics, and a fierce commitment to the Bible. This is a book well worth reading - and spending time with. This book helpfully does three things - gives us a potted understanding of what the Bible is, who is reading it, and why it matters. Let me start with a quote, slightly shortened:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003eThe Bible, Webster said, is 'the vessel which bears God's majestic presence'. Recall too that Augustine had used a similar image: 'Scripture is the vehicle that God provides for us to travel to our true home along the road established by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In the Bible, God comes to address us, to invite us into relationship with him.\u003c\/em\u003e''\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePete begins with a couple of great chapters - The Bible and the word of God and Biblical literacy - that serve as a sort of roadmap for where he's coming from. Throughout both of these chapters, there is a real excitement about the Bible, and the possibilities that come in the Christian life from reading and engaging with it. Pete calls the Bible 'the engine for Christian discipleship', and this is a really helpful image in my mind. Of course, the Bible is more than this (but surely not less than this), and Pete walks us through this and three other understandings of what the Bible 'is'. Having given us a sense of what the Bible is, we turn to the tricky concept of biblical literacy, and without spoiling the book his suggestions are thoroughgoingly Trinitarian, church-oriented and dynamic. This is not just head knowledge - the Bible challenges Christian disciples to be transformed - and this is made clear throughout. Having set the scene with two very helpful chapters (the first is a brilliant explanation in reasonably normal English as to what the Bible is, the latter distilling a complex discussion into a simple output), Pete moves on to two chapters about the way we use the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter three, 'The mediated Bible'\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eis a careful look at how Christians (and others) have engaged with the Bible over time. Pete walks us through a sort of print time machine, looking at key folk in church history and how they engaged with the Bible. We think about 'The Didache' (an early Christian text), Augustine, Aldred, the mystery plays, Erasmus, and Wesley. This chapter makes for an intriguing overview, helping today's reader to root practices of Bible engagement in the past, and also providing food for thought in the way we might approach the Bible today. Chapter four, 'Discipleship and the Bible', is one of the best bits of recent writing on that topic that I've read. Rooted in the words of the Bible, and taking the imagery of the Disciples on the way to Emmaus, Pete makes a strong and passionate case for not just having the Bible as a central part of our discipleship, but thinking about soaking ourselves in it, marinating in it like meat before cooking. With helpful lessons from von Balthasar and Bonhoeffer, Pete encourages us to move from passive to active faith, with the Bible as a key part of that. With this in mind, we readers approach the final part of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final three chapters of 'Engaging the Word' cover the three aspects of discipleship that Pete wants to bring the Bible to bear on: reaching up (spirituality), reaching in (congregational well-being) and reaching out (engaging the world). Key to all of this - and a theme that comes through throughout the book - is community. Or, as Pete puts it, quoting Stanley Hauerwas;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003e'\u003c\/em\u003eA place where God is forming a family out of strangers'. That language resonates with the models of discipleship from Bonhoeffer and von Balthasar: the sense that we become disciples by sharing together in small groups, in communities, learning from one another, becoming friends and family, as we eat and drink and be together. Learning through open commensality, by opening ourselves up to one another and allowing God's word to\u003cem\u003e soak us in his presence\u003c\/em\u003e' From this place - this Bible-drenched community - flows the outpouring of discipleship. Woven in amongst these final three chapters is a deeply biblical emphasis on community and doing the stuff of the Kingdom of God - with some helpful practical suggestions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, then, this is a brilliant book. Pete wears his learning lightly, brings together statistics and concepts in a way that makes a lot of sense, and offers us some excellent practical suggestions. If, like me, you are about to start (or do already) leading a small group, this is a great book to read to shape your thinking. If you are interested in Biblical literacy, or what Christians think of the Bible, then this is a book that is well worth reading. For those involved in church leadership of any kind, even if it feels more practical and less Bible-y than you might like, this is a helpful book to remind us where the engine is, how it works, and why we need to use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy.\u003c\/em\u003e https:\/\/www.thomascreedy.com\/book-review-engaging-the-word\/\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Engaging the Word
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Peter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or meditating on the word...
{"id":2439787642980,"title":"Faith in the Making: Praying it, talking it, living it","handle":"faith-in-the-making-praying-it-talking-it-living-it","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf faith is 'being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see', what does that look like in practice today? In a world that is largely unsure and uncertain, how do we gain our confidence?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFaith in the Making recognises the problem and seeks the answer in the list of faithful heroes found in Hebrews 11. This accessible devotional resource will inspire individuals and groups to live more confidently for God in today's world. Heroic faith is far more attainable than we often think!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Lyndall's Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book that will inspire, deepen and challenge your understanding of Christian faith. Lyndall provides a roadmap which connects the story of faith heroes to our story through an excellent combination of theology, practice and application for our everyday lives. I would highly recommend this as a resource for a small group study or for any individual searching for ways to help them grow stronger in their faith.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJani Rubery, Organisational psychologist and Spiritual Mentor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LyndallBywater_480x480.jpg?v=1676496804\" width=\"150\" height=\"220\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall Bywater is a freelance speaker and writer, specialising in the subject of prayer. Having worked for ten years as The Salvation Army's UK prayer coordinator, she is now part of Connecting the Isles and works with 24-7 Prayer on its Europe team. She heads up Canterbury Boiler Room, an interdenominational prayer community, and contributes to BRF's Day by Day with God Bible reading notes. She is married to Phil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader website, January 2019. Review by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled 'praying it, talking it, living it', this book considers Hebrews 11's great chapter of the people of faith. Bywater writes with passion about her topic and helps us to see the possible ways we can learn from biblical stories and people. There are some terrific ideas for prayer and worship, very stimulating and challenging questions in the 'talking it' section, and some suggestions in 'living it.' This is a book for the individual and the small group, and perhaps even the basis of a preaching series. What is very impressive is the honesty of the author who is keen to show us that she struggles with life every bit as much as the great heroes of the faith. I warmly recommend it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e____________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReform\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes it is hard to hold onto what we have received in worship - to carry it with us into the coming week and use it to make a real difference in the world (or even with those alongside whom we work and live). Sometimes we cannot make the Bible study group. We long for something that can inspire and energise us to respond in action as well as words. This book ticks all the boxes in giving us something to read that is Bible-based, challenging, interesting, personal, realistic and practical. It is easy to read but also honest. It acknowledges the vulnerabilities and weaknesses we all struggle with and uses the author's own life experiences to expand on texts and bring the characters to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBywater bases the whole book on Hebrews 11 and the characters from the Old Testament who are mentioned in it. She feels each one of these were heroes in their own right, and that we can learn from both their ability to hold onto hope wherever they found themselves and from the stories of their friendship with God which fuelled their faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter has the same structure: a Bible text from Hebrews 11, a reflection on the character(s) that also includes the author's personal narrative, then ideas for praying, talking and living out faith (this section focuses on the 'hope' of each character.) A passage from the Old Testament follows, relating to the character(s) and the 'friendship' aspect of their story, which then leads to more ideas for praying, talking and living out faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found it unsettling that God was always addressed using a male pronoun and I was unable to identify with some of the words Bywater used to portray God and how God relates to humankind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, that did not stop the book from being useful. It was practical, interesting and encouraged us to step out in faith, to be heroes - just like the ones we read about in the Bible - despite our human failings and shortcomings. To carry hope and friendship with God as travelling aids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJenny Mills is Minister of Newport Pagnell United Reformed Church and West End United Church, Wolverton, Milton Keynes\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall is already known for her creativity, writings and teaching on prayer, and this is her first book. It is an honest reflection of faith in a challenging culture yet with the possibilities of how God can bring about real change. Her style is relaxed and humorous with lots of practical application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWithin the book the writer is heart-breakingly honest about the fragility of faith when faced with tragedy and atrocity in our world. She acknowledges how the word faith conjures up feelings of excitement and guilt at the same time, but ultimately faith is the call for Christians to look beyond what they can immediately see to a different reality, what the writer of Hebrews calls living by faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall takes the heroes of Hebrews 11, in easy to read chapters. She encourages the reader to think about the people of faith mentioned there, recognising ordinariness within great acts of faith. Describing them as people who 'soared their way to impossible things because they lost sight of their own limitations and got caught up in the bigness of God,' Lyndall opens up the possibility that all Christians can be like those in Hebrews 11. Whether taking a leap with God results in crash-landing or truly flying, faith is less about rules and observances and more about trust in God's presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Christians bored with the mediocre and wanting to change the world, this book will inspire them to put more faith in what God can do where they live. Each chapter ends with opportunity for reflection, putting what has been explored into practice, and developing personal rhythms of prayer for daily life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the writer physically is unable to see, this book is full of enlightening stories, spiritual insight, and the reality of how God makes his vision clear to those who dare to live by faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAndrea Still\u003c\/strong\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:03+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:23:05+00:00","vendor":"Lyndall Bywater","type":"Paperback","tags":["Feb-18","For individuals","Kindle","Prayer","Torch Trust"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769596698724,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465559","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Faith in the Making: Praying it, talking it, living it - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":163,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465559","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465559-l.jpg?v=1549043144","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/53_04978193-e54b-449d-8ce8-e21adf09ae82.png?v=1734095699"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465559-l.jpg?v=1549043144","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238879035531,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465559-l.jpg?v=1549043144"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465559-l.jpg?v=1549043144","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63560967225724,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/53_04978193-e54b-449d-8ce8-e21adf09ae82.png?v=1734095699"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/53_04978193-e54b-449d-8ce8-e21adf09ae82.png?v=1734095699","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eIf faith is 'being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see', what does that look like in practice today? In a world that is largely unsure and uncertain, how do we gain our confidence?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFaith in the Making recognises the problem and seeks the answer in the list of faithful heroes found in Hebrews 11. This accessible devotional resource will inspire individuals and groups to live more confidently for God in today's world. Heroic faith is far more attainable than we often think!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Lyndall's Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book that will inspire, deepen and challenge your understanding of Christian faith. Lyndall provides a roadmap which connects the story of faith heroes to our story through an excellent combination of theology, practice and application for our everyday lives. I would highly recommend this as a resource for a small group study or for any individual searching for ways to help them grow stronger in their faith.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJani Rubery, Organisational psychologist and Spiritual Mentor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/LyndallBywater_480x480.jpg?v=1676496804\" width=\"150\" height=\"220\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall Bywater is a freelance speaker and writer, specialising in the subject of prayer. Having worked for ten years as The Salvation Army's UK prayer coordinator, she is now part of Connecting the Isles and works with 24-7 Prayer on its Europe team. She heads up Canterbury Boiler Room, an interdenominational prayer community, and contributes to BRF's Day by Day with God Bible reading notes. She is married to Phil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader website, January 2019. Review by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled 'praying it, talking it, living it', this book considers Hebrews 11's great chapter of the people of faith. Bywater writes with passion about her topic and helps us to see the possible ways we can learn from biblical stories and people. There are some terrific ideas for prayer and worship, very stimulating and challenging questions in the 'talking it' section, and some suggestions in 'living it.' This is a book for the individual and the small group, and perhaps even the basis of a preaching series. What is very impressive is the honesty of the author who is keen to show us that she struggles with life every bit as much as the great heroes of the faith. I warmly recommend it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e____________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReform\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes it is hard to hold onto what we have received in worship - to carry it with us into the coming week and use it to make a real difference in the world (or even with those alongside whom we work and live). Sometimes we cannot make the Bible study group. We long for something that can inspire and energise us to respond in action as well as words. This book ticks all the boxes in giving us something to read that is Bible-based, challenging, interesting, personal, realistic and practical. It is easy to read but also honest. It acknowledges the vulnerabilities and weaknesses we all struggle with and uses the author's own life experiences to expand on texts and bring the characters to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBywater bases the whole book on Hebrews 11 and the characters from the Old Testament who are mentioned in it. She feels each one of these were heroes in their own right, and that we can learn from both their ability to hold onto hope wherever they found themselves and from the stories of their friendship with God which fuelled their faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter has the same structure: a Bible text from Hebrews 11, a reflection on the character(s) that also includes the author's personal narrative, then ideas for praying, talking and living out faith (this section focuses on the 'hope' of each character.) A passage from the Old Testament follows, relating to the character(s) and the 'friendship' aspect of their story, which then leads to more ideas for praying, talking and living out faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found it unsettling that God was always addressed using a male pronoun and I was unable to identify with some of the words Bywater used to portray God and how God relates to humankind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, that did not stop the book from being useful. It was practical, interesting and encouraged us to step out in faith, to be heroes - just like the ones we read about in the Bible - despite our human failings and shortcomings. To carry hope and friendship with God as travelling aids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJenny Mills is Minister of Newport Pagnell United Reformed Church and West End United Church, Wolverton, Milton Keynes\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall is already known for her creativity, writings and teaching on prayer, and this is her first book. It is an honest reflection of faith in a challenging culture yet with the possibilities of how God can bring about real change. Her style is relaxed and humorous with lots of practical application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWithin the book the writer is heart-breakingly honest about the fragility of faith when faced with tragedy and atrocity in our world. She acknowledges how the word faith conjures up feelings of excitement and guilt at the same time, but ultimately faith is the call for Christians to look beyond what they can immediately see to a different reality, what the writer of Hebrews calls living by faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall takes the heroes of Hebrews 11, in easy to read chapters. She encourages the reader to think about the people of faith mentioned there, recognising ordinariness within great acts of faith. Describing them as people who 'soared their way to impossible things because they lost sight of their own limitations and got caught up in the bigness of God,' Lyndall opens up the possibility that all Christians can be like those in Hebrews 11. Whether taking a leap with God results in crash-landing or truly flying, faith is less about rules and observances and more about trust in God's presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Christians bored with the mediocre and wanting to change the world, this book will inspire them to put more faith in what God can do where they live. Each chapter ends with opportunity for reflection, putting what has been explored into practice, and developing personal rhythms of prayer for daily life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the writer physically is unable to see, this book is full of enlightening stories, spiritual insight, and the reality of how God makes his vision clear to those who dare to live by faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAndrea Still\u003c\/strong\u003e"}
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Faith in the Making: Praying it, talking it, living it
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If faith is 'being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see', what does...
{"id":2439778107492,"title":"Praying the Bible with Luther: A simple approach to everyday prayer","handle":"praying-the-bible-with-luther-a-simple-approach-to-everyday-prayer","description":"\u003cp\u003ePraying biblically and with intent. There is a need in today's church to relate scripture and prayer in such a way as to enable us to speak God's words after him. This book takes a simple lectio divina approach developed in the sixteenth century by Martin Luther and offers practical guidance to pray in this way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning each time of prayer with a Bible passage, Luther would meditate on it with four 'strands' in mind: teaching, thanksgiving, repentance and supplication. Then he would pray, having his thoughts shaped by his reading, praying God's words after him, confident of God's grace. Praying the Bible with Luther explains this method, demonstrates it and encourages readers to follow his example, helping us to turn scripture into prayer and to pray it into our own lives today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e - Praying with Luther today\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 2\u003c\/strong\u003e - A simple way to pray\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 3\u003c\/strong\u003e - Praying the Bible today\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 4\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: starting out\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExodus 19:3 - 8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Chronicles 30:23 - 27\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 51:1 - 4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIsaiah 6:1 - 8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLamentations 3:19 - 26, 31 - 32\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEzekiel 37:1 - 10\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMark 4:35 - 41\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLuke 15:11 - 24\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eActs 4:23 - 31\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGalatians 5:1 - 13\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColossians 3:4 - 10\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 John 3:1 - 3\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 5\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: going solo\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNumbers 6:22 - 27\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Kings 19:9 - 13\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 36:5 - 9\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 42:1 - 5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIsaiah 43:10 - 12\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatthew 13:44 - 46\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohn 1:14\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGalatians 3:1 - 5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEphesians 1:13 - 14\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 24\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 6\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: taking it further\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 7\u003c\/strong\u003e - Final thoughts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is brilliant! It may well be the best book on Luther to appear during these 500-year celebrations - biographical, theological, pastoral and practical. Mike Parsons has done an amazing job of mining and distilling the great Reformer's teaching on prayer to help us walk closer with the Lord.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Simon Ponsonby, Pastor of Theology, St Aldates, Oxford \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is more than a simple approach to everyday prayer; it's a deep book for those who desire to be serious about prayer. The author is well versed in the life and writings of Martin Luther and he proves an immensely able teacher in introducing the reader to Luther's imaginative pattern of praying the Bible. The fact that Luther first introduced his pattern of praying to his hairdresser underlines the down-to-earth practical teaching in Luther's writings on prayer. The \"business end\" of this book, with the examples of how to use the Bible in praying, is brilliant and highly commended for use personally and with small groups.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Coffey OBE, Global Ambassador BMS World Mission \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Parsons proves a wise and gentle guide to reading the word of God not only with our head but with our hearts. His passion for the Bible and Luther is infectious.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Amy Boucher Pye, author of The Living Cross (BRF, 2016) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis superb book offers practical advice for individuals and groups to experience prayer afresh as a place of encounter with God. Three excellent chapters outline Luther's scripture-centred approach, followed by an imaginative series of steps where the author first allows us to \"overhear\" how this works for him before we are nudged to have a go ourselves. This book could change your life!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Kerrigan, General Director of BMS World Mission \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMike Parsons rightly understands that the general dissatisfaction most Christians feel about the state of their prayer lives often stems from a tendency to dissociate prayer from Bible reading. Of course, the two belong together. In this wonderful book, peppered with fascinating anecdotes and insights from the life of Martin Luther, the author leads us - via worked examples in scripture - to life-giving prayer habits. The tone is relaxed and conversational, the content is theologically rich and the ideas are eminently practical. So I urge you: take, read, confess, worship and pray!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paul Hedley Jones, Trinity College, Queensland, Australia \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten in a warm and accessible tone, but with a real sense of purpose, this book brings the prayer life of Martin Luther alive for a new generation. I have no doubt that it will change the prayers of all those who read it, as it inspires us to dig deeper into scripture and press further into prayer with warm encouragement and practical examples. A much needed book which effortlessly combines Reformation wisdom with 21st-century warmth, I am excited to see what difference it makes to the prayer life of the Church today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Nell Goddard, author of Musings of a Clergy Child (BRF, 2017) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis excellent resource takes important Reformation insights, makes them accessible and then applies them to prayer today. There are many healthy biblical insights here and, if acted upon, they have the potential to enrich our prayer lives greatly. I wish this book a wide readership. Peter J.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Morden, Vice Principal and Director of the Spurgeon's Centre for Spirituality, Spurgeon's College, London\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nCurrently commissioning editor for The Bible Reading Fellowship, Michael Parsons is the author of several books on the Reformation and an Associate Research Fellow at Spurgeon's College.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Parsons is a gentle teacher who introduces Luther's love of the Bible and how we can pray with the reformer using God's Word as our text and guide. Parsons says that praying with the Bible will become an instinctive and living experience, in which we grow in our faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI find it interesting to note that the way of praying with the Bible highlighted here is \u003cem\u003electio divina \u003c\/em\u003e - the ancient four-part practice that began in the (Catholic) monasteries. That Luther would pray according to this form reveals the influence of his decade as a monk - he didn't leave all of those practices behind. Parsons' book is practical and encouraging, giving a hands-on means to introduce another way of praying into our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur world would be very different without the influence of men such as Luther, Calvin, Huldrych Zwingli and William Tyndale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmy Boucher-Pye, Woman Alive Book Club\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:23:39+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:21+00:00","vendor":"Michael Parsons","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Prayer"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769451274340,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465030","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436728991844,"product_id":2439778107492,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:21+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:53+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153","variant_ids":[21769451274340]},"available":true,"name":"Praying the Bible with Luther: A simple approach to everyday prayer - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":164,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465030","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877888651,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877888651,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465030-l.jpg?v=1549043153","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003ePraying biblically and with intent. There is a need in today's church to relate scripture and prayer in such a way as to enable us to speak God's words after him. This book takes a simple lectio divina approach developed in the sixteenth century by Martin Luther and offers practical guidance to pray in this way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning each time of prayer with a Bible passage, Luther would meditate on it with four 'strands' in mind: teaching, thanksgiving, repentance and supplication. Then he would pray, having his thoughts shaped by his reading, praying God's words after him, confident of God's grace. Praying the Bible with Luther explains this method, demonstrates it and encourages readers to follow his example, helping us to turn scripture into prayer and to pray it into our own lives today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e - Praying with Luther today\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 2\u003c\/strong\u003e - A simple way to pray\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 3\u003c\/strong\u003e - Praying the Bible today\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 4\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: starting out\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExodus 19:3 - 8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Chronicles 30:23 - 27\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 51:1 - 4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIsaiah 6:1 - 8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLamentations 3:19 - 26, 31 - 32\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEzekiel 37:1 - 10\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMark 4:35 - 41\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLuke 15:11 - 24\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eActs 4:23 - 31\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGalatians 5:1 - 13\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColossians 3:4 - 10\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 John 3:1 - 3\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 5\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: going solo\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNumbers 6:22 - 27\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Kings 19:9 - 13\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 36:5 - 9\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePsalm 42:1 - 5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIsaiah 43:10 - 12\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatthew 13:44 - 46\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohn 1:14\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGalatians 3:1 - 5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEphesians 1:13 - 14\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 24\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 6\u003c\/strong\u003e - Following Luther's example: taking it further\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChapter 7\u003c\/strong\u003e - Final thoughts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is brilliant! It may well be the best book on Luther to appear during these 500-year celebrations - biographical, theological, pastoral and practical. Mike Parsons has done an amazing job of mining and distilling the great Reformer's teaching on prayer to help us walk closer with the Lord.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Simon Ponsonby, Pastor of Theology, St Aldates, Oxford \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is more than a simple approach to everyday prayer; it's a deep book for those who desire to be serious about prayer. The author is well versed in the life and writings of Martin Luther and he proves an immensely able teacher in introducing the reader to Luther's imaginative pattern of praying the Bible. The fact that Luther first introduced his pattern of praying to his hairdresser underlines the down-to-earth practical teaching in Luther's writings on prayer. The \"business end\" of this book, with the examples of how to use the Bible in praying, is brilliant and highly commended for use personally and with small groups.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Coffey OBE, Global Ambassador BMS World Mission \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Parsons proves a wise and gentle guide to reading the word of God not only with our head but with our hearts. His passion for the Bible and Luther is infectious.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Amy Boucher Pye, author of The Living Cross (BRF, 2016) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis superb book offers practical advice for individuals and groups to experience prayer afresh as a place of encounter with God. Three excellent chapters outline Luther's scripture-centred approach, followed by an imaginative series of steps where the author first allows us to \"overhear\" how this works for him before we are nudged to have a go ourselves. This book could change your life!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Kerrigan, General Director of BMS World Mission \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMike Parsons rightly understands that the general dissatisfaction most Christians feel about the state of their prayer lives often stems from a tendency to dissociate prayer from Bible reading. Of course, the two belong together. In this wonderful book, peppered with fascinating anecdotes and insights from the life of Martin Luther, the author leads us - via worked examples in scripture - to life-giving prayer habits. The tone is relaxed and conversational, the content is theologically rich and the ideas are eminently practical. So I urge you: take, read, confess, worship and pray!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paul Hedley Jones, Trinity College, Queensland, Australia \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten in a warm and accessible tone, but with a real sense of purpose, this book brings the prayer life of Martin Luther alive for a new generation. I have no doubt that it will change the prayers of all those who read it, as it inspires us to dig deeper into scripture and press further into prayer with warm encouragement and practical examples. A much needed book which effortlessly combines Reformation wisdom with 21st-century warmth, I am excited to see what difference it makes to the prayer life of the Church today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Nell Goddard, author of Musings of a Clergy Child (BRF, 2017) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis excellent resource takes important Reformation insights, makes them accessible and then applies them to prayer today. There are many healthy biblical insights here and, if acted upon, they have the potential to enrich our prayer lives greatly. I wish this book a wide readership. Peter J.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Morden, Vice Principal and Director of the Spurgeon's Centre for Spirituality, Spurgeon's College, London\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nCurrently commissioning editor for The Bible Reading Fellowship, Michael Parsons is the author of several books on the Reformation and an Associate Research Fellow at Spurgeon's College.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Parsons is a gentle teacher who introduces Luther's love of the Bible and how we can pray with the reformer using God's Word as our text and guide. Parsons says that praying with the Bible will become an instinctive and living experience, in which we grow in our faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI find it interesting to note that the way of praying with the Bible highlighted here is \u003cem\u003electio divina \u003c\/em\u003e - the ancient four-part practice that began in the (Catholic) monasteries. That Luther would pray according to this form reveals the influence of his decade as a monk - he didn't leave all of those practices behind. Parsons' book is practical and encouraging, giving a hands-on means to introduce another way of praying into our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur world would be very different without the influence of men such as Luther, Calvin, Huldrych Zwingli and William Tyndale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmy Boucher-Pye, Woman Alive Book Club\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2439756513380,"title":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel","handle":"peters-preaching-the-message-of-marks-gospel","description":"\u003cp\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark, of course!' I hear you shout? But who was Mark?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark's name doesn't appear on the list of disciples, as Matthew's does. His Gospel doesn't start with a clear statement of investigation, as does Luke's, offering credibility. Yet, remarkably, large chunks of Mark's Gospel appear in both Matthew's and Luke's work. What's going on?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff provides insightful answers in his new book Peter's Preaching, revealing how an ancient source describes Mark as Peter's translator to a Greek-speaking world. Intriguingly, though, this source also tells us that while Mark recorded Peter's preaching 'accurately', he did not record it 'in order'. Mark devised his own order of the stories, for his own purpose, using a structure and format that were as radical in the first century as ebooks are today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut that is only the start of Jeremy's detective work in this stimulating book, which moves on to uncover Peter's thought on the key themes of the Christian message, found distributed throughout the Gospel. Jeremy pieces these themes together like a jigsaw to reveal how Peter understood them, and how that understanding helps us to appreciate the radical nature of first-century Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people have found Mark's gospel to be the most gripping of the four gospels - a real page-turner - and here Jeremy Duff helps us to understand why. This analysis will deepen your appreciation of Mark's gospel, whether you have read it just once or you are a seasoned student. I commend it to all who long to respond to Jesus with the same conviction and passion as Peter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy's fresh insights and creative commentary on Mark's trend-setting Gospel not only widen our understanding of Jesus, but also pin point the way the record of Jesus' encounters with people encourage us to follow Him, be changed by Him and share Him with others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Bailey, Leader, Trinity Cheltenham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff is an excellent teacher, who combines first-rate scholarship with rich experience of people and church life. This makes him an ideal guide to Mark's Gospel. This book is full of fascinating insights, presented in a thoughtful, accessible and enticing way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is just sort of book which BRF should be producing. It is clearly written by a scholar who has also pastoral concerns and experience, who is concerned about people and knows how ordinary people think and react. It is designed to help people get to know Mark and his message about Jesus and the significance of Jesus for us all. Every chapter is written with a gentle warmth and even gentler humour, often starting with a gripping story or scene from ordinary life. The book opens with a persuasive section, arguing that Mark is the basic gospel and that he could have won this position only because he was the 'interpreter' of Peter. It was this that gave Mark the authority which led Matthew and Luke to follow his pattern. The book also argues that Mark may be held responsible for those other two interesting Christian initiatives (quite distinct from other contemporary literature) of using book-style rather than scrolls to be rolled and unrolled, and the distinctive Christian form of abbreviating sacred names.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basic impression which one receives throughout is that Mark was a gospel written for real people, with our concerns, worries, efforts and timidity. It constantly gives the reader pause for reflection on the concepts of friendship, loyalty, discipleship. Jesus personally chose the Twelve primarily to be with him, creating a new society, a new Israel. This made their hardness of heart, their failure to understand, their desertion all the more bitter for him; the book helps a disciple to see the depths of betrayal - theirs and ours. Their half-sight so vividly mirrors our own experience and lack of commitment (p. 49). The book is full of striking insights: if you want to understand the parables, look for the twist, where the parable diverges from normal life (p. 208). The meaning of Jesus progress to his inevitable death is sensitively painted against its biblical background; the physical horror and especially the shame of the final hours of Jesus are portrayed delicately but with devastating awareness (p. 288).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is especially helpful that long excerpts of the gospel text are given before discussion of their importance. One learns from the text!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Henry Wansbrough, Ampleforth Abbey \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Professor Jeremy Duff is the Principal of St Padarn's Institute, responsible for discipleship and ministry training and ongoing development in the Church in Wales. Over the last 20 years, he has combined a teaching ministry including major universities in the UK, as well as within the church, with church leadership, most recently in a deprived urban community near Liverpool (where Peter's Preaching was written). For ten years, he was one of the commissioning editors for BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes, and his book The Elements of New Testament Greek (2005) is one of Cambridge University Press's bestselling religion titles. He is also the coauthor, with the Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt McGrath, of Meeting Jesus: Human responses to a yearning God (SPCK, 2006).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach - Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConfession time. I didn't enjoy lectures at theological college wrestling over which Gospel was written first and who used whose material to produce their Gospel. Up to that point, I had enjoyed reading each Gospel as it was presented, and to be honest I still do. However, reading Jeremy Duff's highly scholarly but refreshingly accessible work has been a real tonic.\u003cbr\u003eThe starting point for the book is a piece of detective work examining the evidence that Mark drew heavily on Peter's sermons to construct his Gospel. Duff presents Papias' views that support this in a compelling and convincing way.\u003cbr\u003eThe heart of the book is a treatment of eight themes that are central to Mark's Gospel, each of which are rewarding and enriching to explore. In addition, Duff helpfully provides his own translation of Mark's Greek, which was often rougher than the smoother versions we read today.\u003cbr\u003eParticularly helpful is the explanation of what it means to be 'following on the way'. The picture of the disciple as one who follows Jesus and is ready to take up his cross is a vital corrective to our comfortable Christianity. As the crucifixion approaches, the disciples desert Jesus and flee, but surprising new followers come to anoint Jesus and carry his cross. The book ends, as does Mark's Gospel, with a challenge to go and meet with the risen Jesus.\u003cbr\u003eFor preachers who are in a hurry with a sermon deadline approaching, this book won't be the best source of last-minute help. However, for all who want to understand Mark's Gospel more fully, whether preaching or not, this is a deeply rewarding read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Birchall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a latecomer to the Markan library, and is not a commentary but a guide to reading Mark's gospel. It is based on the idea that what we have in Mark's text is a kind of compendium of Peter's preaching, written down by Mark- who incidentally seems not to have been the young man who ran off naked after Jesus' arrest. The author presents us with a different way to read Mark's gospel, taking a thematic approach - miracles, the identity of Jesus, parables - and shows how carefully the original text was structured to make particular points. Duff writes accessibly and intermingles biblical exposition with some telling contemporary illustrations. There is a wealth of preaching material here and many helpful insights. The author also includes some interesting historical and contextual comments, such as that Mark was perhaps responsible for encouraging the use of the new codex format in preference to the more traditional scrolls. This highlights the one failing of Duff's book - the lack of references to any other literature. But this book is not offered as an academic text and his credentials are attested by his time as a New Testament tutor at Oxford - so we can take his word on trust. In the same way he encourages us to receive Mark's gospel as Peter's word to the early church - and to us - about the good news that is Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarion Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 8 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePeter's Preaching\u003c\/em\u003e: \u003cem\u003eThe Message of Mark's Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, GBP9.99), Jeremy Duff takes what is arguably the foundational document of Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is argued that Mark has written down and edited some of what Peter has remembered from all that he heard of Jesus' public and private teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10 chapters cover Peter's preaching thematically in a style which combines in-depth analysis and Bible reading notes. To this end, the book can be taken as a devotional, taking one section each day. The encouraging conclusion is that, despite our faults and failures, like Peter, we can pick ourselves up and meet Jesus again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Paul Wilson is development worker for Methodist Evangelicals Together.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:21:45+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:03+00:00","vendor":"Jeremy Duff","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Kindle"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769146859620,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857463500","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436587532388,"product_id":2439756513380,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:21:03+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:46:08+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","variant_ids":[21769146859620]},"available":false,"name":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":211,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857463500","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238875496587,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238875496587,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857463500-l.jpg?v=1549043168","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark, of course!' I hear you shout? But who was Mark?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark's name doesn't appear on the list of disciples, as Matthew's does. His Gospel doesn't start with a clear statement of investigation, as does Luke's, offering credibility. Yet, remarkably, large chunks of Mark's Gospel appear in both Matthew's and Luke's work. What's going on?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff provides insightful answers in his new book Peter's Preaching, revealing how an ancient source describes Mark as Peter's translator to a Greek-speaking world. Intriguingly, though, this source also tells us that while Mark recorded Peter's preaching 'accurately', he did not record it 'in order'. Mark devised his own order of the stories, for his own purpose, using a structure and format that were as radical in the first century as ebooks are today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut that is only the start of Jeremy's detective work in this stimulating book, which moves on to uncover Peter's thought on the key themes of the Christian message, found distributed throughout the Gospel. Jeremy pieces these themes together like a jigsaw to reveal how Peter understood them, and how that understanding helps us to appreciate the radical nature of first-century Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people have found Mark's gospel to be the most gripping of the four gospels - a real page-turner - and here Jeremy Duff helps us to understand why. This analysis will deepen your appreciation of Mark's gospel, whether you have read it just once or you are a seasoned student. I commend it to all who long to respond to Jesus with the same conviction and passion as Peter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy's fresh insights and creative commentary on Mark's trend-setting Gospel not only widen our understanding of Jesus, but also pin point the way the record of Jesus' encounters with people encourage us to follow Him, be changed by Him and share Him with others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Bailey, Leader, Trinity Cheltenham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJeremy Duff is an excellent teacher, who combines first-rate scholarship with rich experience of people and church life. This makes him an ideal guide to Mark's Gospel. This book is full of fascinating insights, presented in a thoughtful, accessible and enticing way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Graham Tomlin, Principal, St Mellitus College \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is just sort of book which BRF should be producing. It is clearly written by a scholar who has also pastoral concerns and experience, who is concerned about people and knows how ordinary people think and react. It is designed to help people get to know Mark and his message about Jesus and the significance of Jesus for us all. Every chapter is written with a gentle warmth and even gentler humour, often starting with a gripping story or scene from ordinary life. The book opens with a persuasive section, arguing that Mark is the basic gospel and that he could have won this position only because he was the 'interpreter' of Peter. It was this that gave Mark the authority which led Matthew and Luke to follow his pattern. The book also argues that Mark may be held responsible for those other two interesting Christian initiatives (quite distinct from other contemporary literature) of using book-style rather than scrolls to be rolled and unrolled, and the distinctive Christian form of abbreviating sacred names.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basic impression which one receives throughout is that Mark was a gospel written for real people, with our concerns, worries, efforts and timidity. It constantly gives the reader pause for reflection on the concepts of friendship, loyalty, discipleship. Jesus personally chose the Twelve primarily to be with him, creating a new society, a new Israel. This made their hardness of heart, their failure to understand, their desertion all the more bitter for him; the book helps a disciple to see the depths of betrayal - theirs and ours. Their half-sight so vividly mirrors our own experience and lack of commitment (p. 49). The book is full of striking insights: if you want to understand the parables, look for the twist, where the parable diverges from normal life (p. 208). The meaning of Jesus progress to his inevitable death is sensitively painted against its biblical background; the physical horror and especially the shame of the final hours of Jesus are portrayed delicately but with devastating awareness (p. 288).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is especially helpful that long excerpts of the gospel text are given before discussion of their importance. One learns from the text!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Henry Wansbrough, Ampleforth Abbey \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Professor Jeremy Duff is the Principal of St Padarn's Institute, responsible for discipleship and ministry training and ongoing development in the Church in Wales. Over the last 20 years, he has combined a teaching ministry including major universities in the UK, as well as within the church, with church leadership, most recently in a deprived urban community near Liverpool (where Peter's Preaching was written). For ten years, he was one of the commissioning editors for BRF's Guidelines Bible reading notes, and his book The Elements of New Testament Greek (2005) is one of Cambridge University Press's bestselling religion titles. He is also the coauthor, with the Revd Dr Joanna Collicutt McGrath, of Meeting Jesus: Human responses to a yearning God (SPCK, 2006).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach - Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConfession time. I didn't enjoy lectures at theological college wrestling over which Gospel was written first and who used whose material to produce their Gospel. Up to that point, I had enjoyed reading each Gospel as it was presented, and to be honest I still do. However, reading Jeremy Duff's highly scholarly but refreshingly accessible work has been a real tonic.\u003cbr\u003eThe starting point for the book is a piece of detective work examining the evidence that Mark drew heavily on Peter's sermons to construct his Gospel. Duff presents Papias' views that support this in a compelling and convincing way.\u003cbr\u003eThe heart of the book is a treatment of eight themes that are central to Mark's Gospel, each of which are rewarding and enriching to explore. In addition, Duff helpfully provides his own translation of Mark's Greek, which was often rougher than the smoother versions we read today.\u003cbr\u003eParticularly helpful is the explanation of what it means to be 'following on the way'. The picture of the disciple as one who follows Jesus and is ready to take up his cross is a vital corrective to our comfortable Christianity. As the crucifixion approaches, the disciples desert Jesus and flee, but surprising new followers come to anoint Jesus and carry his cross. The book ends, as does Mark's Gospel, with a challenge to go and meet with the risen Jesus.\u003cbr\u003eFor preachers who are in a hurry with a sermon deadline approaching, this book won't be the best source of last-minute help. However, for all who want to understand Mark's Gospel more fully, whether preaching or not, this is a deeply rewarding read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Birchall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader Spring 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a latecomer to the Markan library, and is not a commentary but a guide to reading Mark's gospel. It is based on the idea that what we have in Mark's text is a kind of compendium of Peter's preaching, written down by Mark- who incidentally seems not to have been the young man who ran off naked after Jesus' arrest. The author presents us with a different way to read Mark's gospel, taking a thematic approach - miracles, the identity of Jesus, parables - and shows how carefully the original text was structured to make particular points. Duff writes accessibly and intermingles biblical exposition with some telling contemporary illustrations. There is a wealth of preaching material here and many helpful insights. The author also includes some interesting historical and contextual comments, such as that Mark was perhaps responsible for encouraging the use of the new codex format in preference to the more traditional scrolls. This highlights the one failing of Duff's book - the lack of references to any other literature. But this book is not offered as an academic text and his credentials are attested by his time as a New Testament tutor at Oxford - so we can take his word on trust. In the same way he encourages us to receive Mark's gospel as Peter's word to the early church - and to us - about the good news that is Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarion Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 8 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePeter's Preaching\u003c\/em\u003e: \u003cem\u003eThe Message of Mark's Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, GBP9.99), Jeremy Duff takes what is arguably the foundational document of Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is argued that Mark has written down and edited some of what Peter has remembered from all that he heard of Jesus' public and private teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10 chapters cover Peter's preaching thematically in a style which combines in-depth analysis and Bible reading notes. To this end, the book can be taken as a devotional, taking one section each day. The encouraging conclusion is that, despite our faults and failures, like Peter, we can pick ourselves up and meet Jesus again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Paul Wilson is development worker for Methodist Evangelicals Together.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
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{"id":2439810515044,"title":"Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles","handle":"is-your-god-too-small-enlarging-our-vision-in-the-face-of-lifes-struggles","description":"\u003cp\u003eJob struggled, as we do, with huge questions - his own and the world's. He and his friends looked for an answer in the past, but discovered that the answer lay elsewhere - in God himself, and in the divine presence in his life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn an accessible way, David Potter opens up fresh insight into the book of Job, with a different perspective on our sufferings and perhaps on God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have loved reading David Potter's book on Job. It reads really well and gives the most accessible introduction to the book that I've ever come across. I will gladly commend it to others. The author's warm evangelical heart and pastoral sensitivity have made it an extremely valuable volume.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonathan Edwards, formerly General Secretary of The Baptist Union\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter has had another book published and while, regrettably, I am not an avid reader ... I have to say this is a great read... Yes, it is about suffering, poor ol' Job and his 'helpful' friends, but it's more about Job's - and our - great God. It is very engaging. I am nearly at the end of the book and can (must) recommend it to you. For those of you who know David, you will be able to 'hear him' as you read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Bentley, formerly Chair of Trustees of Prospects and Trustee of Livability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have greatly enjoyed and profited from reading 'Is your God too small?', and have recommended it to several people. David Potter cuts through some of the detail to get to the heart of what the book is about, and its applicability to our contemporary culture - clearly the fruit of much reflection and prayer. Thank you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePJL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter is a Baptist pastor. He was the co-editor of The Evangelical Times, and one of the founding directors of Evangelicals Now. However, his life's work until early retirement has been as the founder and director of Prospects for people with learning disabilities. David received an MBE in 2002 in recognition of his services in the field of Learning Disabilities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotter takes us through the book of Job, chapter by chapter, trying to answer the question: 'where is wisdom to be found?' This is not a scholarly book, but a practical and accessible one that encourages us to enlarge our view of God and so find God's presence and comfort when our lives get difficult. Potter was a Baptist pastor and became one of the founding directors of 'Evangelicals Now'. He received an MBE for his work with Prospects, a charity that works with people with learning difficulties, and uses stories from his own life to illustrate some of his points. One of his key verses is Ephesians 1:11, ' works out everything in conformity with the purposes of his will'. He encourages us to accept whatever God sends into our lives, continuing to trust in his loving purposes for us and those dear to us, even though they may be inscrutable to us. Wisdom is to be found in the fear of the Lord. But for him the answer to these questions is finally to be found in contemplating the cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'evangelicals now', February 2019. Review by Louise Morse\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs there anyone who hasn't known suffering? Who hasn't asked, like Job, 'where is God in this?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter, retired pastor and founder of Prospects, the charity that cares for people with learning disabilities, studies the book of Job to 'enlarge our view of God and his goodness in difficult times', making it a teaching book with learning topics listed beneath chapter headings, and 'how to use this book' instructions on page six. It's excellent material for house groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot much is known about Job, except that he was a prosperous businessman and eminent civic leader, who excelled in charitable works and, according to God himself, was 'an exceptionally good man'. He says as much to Satan, who responds by accusing Job of acting out of self-interest. God responds by allowing Satan to ruin Job in every sense, to prove that Job cherished him for himself, not merely his blessings. Perhaps Job would have felt the unfairness even more deeply, suggests the author, had he known. Readers may feel that, on the other hand, Job may have felt strengthened in knowing that God could trust him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJob's was a wisdom-based society where there were regular council meetings, suggesting democracy, and with moral values where the elderly were revered (Job 12:12, 32:4). Yet Job's friends' monologues reflect post-truth relativism rather than wisdom, looking for facts to fit their theory of cause and effect, i.e. that Job was suffering because of hidden sin. A question David Potter asks is: 'Should Job have made more effort to show his appreciation for the fact that his friends were ... trying to help him?' The author's reflections and questions reflect discussion throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The loss Job felt most keenly... was the companionship of God.' He longs to see him, to hear from him. Then he has a lightening flash of revelation, in which he sees God as his Redeemer (Job 19:23-27). In that moment, Potter writes, he 'knows that he has a future... he will see God.' Eventually God speaks, revealing his immeasurable vastness by taking Job on a virtual tour of creation. 'Now I see him,' says Job (Job 42:5). 'For Job to find peace he had to see the wisdom and power of God,' writes Potter, 'and by that route he found the grace to trust his covenant-keeping God.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is packed with references, both biblical and literary. It's a pleasing read, though not everyone will agree with everything the author posits. Nevertheless, it will make you think.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Louise Morse, Pilgrims' Friend Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eLyndon Bowring, Chairman, CARE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI confess, that other than dipping into it as part of my regular Bible reading, Job is not a book I've ever sought to study in any depth. But when David asked me to read \u003cem\u003eIs your God too small? \u003c\/em\u003eI found myself quickly captivated by his exposition of this unique part of Scripture. Drawing from his theological studies, pastoral experience and times of testing in his and his wife's personal lives, David examines the question that has been asked for millennia: 'Why does a so-called God of love allow such suffering in the world?' He presents us with inspiring reassurances about the sovereignty of God and His deep desire to have a relationship with each person he has made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning with the intriguing scenes where Satan and God discuss this blameless man's life, and what it would take for him to reject his faith, David takes us through Job's despair and deep suffering and makes some fascinating comments about his friends' long speeches and Job's response. The climax comes with God's majestic declarations of His omnipotence, and wisdom that surpasses human understanding. Every stage of our journey through\u003cem\u003e Is your God too small?\u003c\/em\u003e includes New Testament references that point to Jesus and help us to grasp what it means to 'fear God - which is the beginning of wisdom.' It has certainly helped me to appreciate this ancient story in a whole new way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf, like me, you've rather neglected the Book of Job, do yourself a favour and read this book. Instead of asking that question 'Why?' we can move on in hope to wonder 'For what purpose?' does God allow the dark times of suffering to come into all our lives. God's sovereign greatness is far above our comprehension and His purposes stretch beyond the preoccupations of our times and individual lives. Yet, as David gently points out again and again, He tenderly loves us through it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Lyndon Bowring\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-13T18:06:34+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:30+00:00","vendor":"David Potter","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Kindle","Pastoral care"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769922445412,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466334","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436937134180,"product_id":2439810515044,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:24:30+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:28+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128","variant_ids":[21769922445412]},"available":false,"name":"Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":189,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466334","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238880575627,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238880575627,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466334-l.jpg?v=1549043128","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eJob struggled, as we do, with huge questions - his own and the world's. He and his friends looked for an answer in the past, but discovered that the answer lay elsewhere - in God himself, and in the divine presence in his life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn an accessible way, David Potter opens up fresh insight into the book of Job, with a different perspective on our sufferings and perhaps on God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have loved reading David Potter's book on Job. It reads really well and gives the most accessible introduction to the book that I've ever come across. I will gladly commend it to others. The author's warm evangelical heart and pastoral sensitivity have made it an extremely valuable volume.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonathan Edwards, formerly General Secretary of The Baptist Union\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter has had another book published and while, regrettably, I am not an avid reader ... I have to say this is a great read... Yes, it is about suffering, poor ol' Job and his 'helpful' friends, but it's more about Job's - and our - great God. It is very engaging. I am nearly at the end of the book and can (must) recommend it to you. For those of you who know David, you will be able to 'hear him' as you read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Bentley, formerly Chair of Trustees of Prospects and Trustee of Livability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have greatly enjoyed and profited from reading 'Is your God too small?', and have recommended it to several people. David Potter cuts through some of the detail to get to the heart of what the book is about, and its applicability to our contemporary culture - clearly the fruit of much reflection and prayer. Thank you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePJL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter is a Baptist pastor. He was the co-editor of The Evangelical Times, and one of the founding directors of Evangelicals Now. However, his life's work until early retirement has been as the founder and director of Prospects for people with learning disabilities. David received an MBE in 2002 in recognition of his services in the field of Learning Disabilities. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotter takes us through the book of Job, chapter by chapter, trying to answer the question: 'where is wisdom to be found?' This is not a scholarly book, but a practical and accessible one that encourages us to enlarge our view of God and so find God's presence and comfort when our lives get difficult. Potter was a Baptist pastor and became one of the founding directors of 'Evangelicals Now'. He received an MBE for his work with Prospects, a charity that works with people with learning difficulties, and uses stories from his own life to illustrate some of his points. One of his key verses is Ephesians 1:11, ' works out everything in conformity with the purposes of his will'. He encourages us to accept whatever God sends into our lives, continuing to trust in his loving purposes for us and those dear to us, even though they may be inscrutable to us. Wisdom is to be found in the fear of the Lord. But for him the answer to these questions is finally to be found in contemplating the cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Didsbury\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'evangelicals now', February 2019. Review by Louise Morse\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIs there anyone who hasn't known suffering? Who hasn't asked, like Job, 'where is God in this?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Potter, retired pastor and founder of Prospects, the charity that cares for people with learning disabilities, studies the book of Job to 'enlarge our view of God and his goodness in difficult times', making it a teaching book with learning topics listed beneath chapter headings, and 'how to use this book' instructions on page six. It's excellent material for house groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot much is known about Job, except that he was a prosperous businessman and eminent civic leader, who excelled in charitable works and, according to God himself, was 'an exceptionally good man'. He says as much to Satan, who responds by accusing Job of acting out of self-interest. God responds by allowing Satan to ruin Job in every sense, to prove that Job cherished him for himself, not merely his blessings. Perhaps Job would have felt the unfairness even more deeply, suggests the author, had he known. Readers may feel that, on the other hand, Job may have felt strengthened in knowing that God could trust him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJob's was a wisdom-based society where there were regular council meetings, suggesting democracy, and with moral values where the elderly were revered (Job 12:12, 32:4). Yet Job's friends' monologues reflect post-truth relativism rather than wisdom, looking for facts to fit their theory of cause and effect, i.e. that Job was suffering because of hidden sin. A question David Potter asks is: 'Should Job have made more effort to show his appreciation for the fact that his friends were ... trying to help him?' The author's reflections and questions reflect discussion throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'The loss Job felt most keenly... was the companionship of God.' He longs to see him, to hear from him. Then he has a lightening flash of revelation, in which he sees God as his Redeemer (Job 19:23-27). In that moment, Potter writes, he 'knows that he has a future... he will see God.' Eventually God speaks, revealing his immeasurable vastness by taking Job on a virtual tour of creation. 'Now I see him,' says Job (Job 42:5). 'For Job to find peace he had to see the wisdom and power of God,' writes Potter, 'and by that route he found the grace to trust his covenant-keeping God.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is packed with references, both biblical and literary. It's a pleasing read, though not everyone will agree with everything the author posits. Nevertheless, it will make you think.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Louise Morse, Pilgrims' Friend Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eLyndon Bowring, Chairman, CARE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI confess, that other than dipping into it as part of my regular Bible reading, Job is not a book I've ever sought to study in any depth. But when David asked me to read \u003cem\u003eIs your God too small? \u003c\/em\u003eI found myself quickly captivated by his exposition of this unique part of Scripture. Drawing from his theological studies, pastoral experience and times of testing in his and his wife's personal lives, David examines the question that has been asked for millennia: 'Why does a so-called God of love allow such suffering in the world?' He presents us with inspiring reassurances about the sovereignty of God and His deep desire to have a relationship with each person he has made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeginning with the intriguing scenes where Satan and God discuss this blameless man's life, and what it would take for him to reject his faith, David takes us through Job's despair and deep suffering and makes some fascinating comments about his friends' long speeches and Job's response. The climax comes with God's majestic declarations of His omnipotence, and wisdom that surpasses human understanding. Every stage of our journey through\u003cem\u003e Is your God too small?\u003c\/em\u003e includes New Testament references that point to Jesus and help us to grasp what it means to 'fear God - which is the beginning of wisdom.' It has certainly helped me to appreciate this ancient story in a whole new way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf, like me, you've rather neglected the Book of Job, do yourself a favour and read this book. Instead of asking that question 'Why?' we can move on in hope to wonder 'For what purpose?' does God allow the dark times of suffering to come into all our lives. God's sovereign greatness is far above our comprehension and His purposes stretch beyond the preoccupations of our times and individual lives. Yet, as David gently points out again and again, He tenderly loves us through it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Lyndon Bowring\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":2439785939044,"title":"Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world","handle":"paul-and-his-friends-in-leadership-how-they-changed-the-world","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in their own time, the more we will be able to apply biblical principles to today's church, its leaders and its mission-transforming and enriching the way we do church today. Paul and His Friends in Leadership examines the apostle Paul's critical relationships with key people, illustrating his humanity, faith, confidence in God and his leadership qualities. This novel approach, by an expert in the New Testament, will encourage us to reflect on leadership in the church today and help us to see how crucial authentic relationships are to our contemporary mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\nPreface\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's greatness\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's life: a sketch\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's calling, his mission and his churches\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's mission to Cyprus and Galatia (AD47 - 48)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eBarnabas, missionary leader\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's mission to the Aegean provinces (AD49 - 57)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilvanus, missionary and translator \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTimothy, Paul's leading fellow worker \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eLuke, beloved physician and author \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla and Aquila, merchants \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eStephanas, servant of the saints \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eGaius, host of the church in Corinth \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eApollos, passionate preacher \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eErastus, high-ranking city official \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 1), Paul's ambassador \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphras, evangelist \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhilemon, house-church leader \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eOnesimus, runaway slave \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJohn Mark, author \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe Asiarchs of Ephesus, leading citizens\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe, patroness in Cenchreae \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAristarchus, travel companion \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's mission in Rome (AD57)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndronicus and Junia, Paul's kin \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eRufus, 'chosen in the Lord' \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's last years (AD60 - 65)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphroditus, carer \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEuodia and Syntyche, fellow workers \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 2), evangelist in Crete \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eOnesiphorus, earnest friend \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nThe origin of love in the writings of Paul\u003cbr\u003e\r\nThe significance of Paul's mission friends\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nPaul W. Barnett is a former Bishop of North Sydney, Australia, and lecturer in New Testament at Moore College, Sydney. He is the author of many well-received and influential books on the New Testament. His two interests are Christian ministry and the world of the early church. His passion is to encourage the practice of biblical principles for ministry in today's world.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eReview by David Sellick\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBarnett sets out to show that Paul was more of a 'people person' than he is often given credit for and that he offered caring leadership to those with whom he shared mission, so that together 'they changed the world', as the book's subtitle claims. In Acts and Paul's letters about 100 people are named and of these Barnett identifies about forty whom he regards as Paul's key 'mission colleagues'. All named people associated with Paul's missionary work from AD49 to 57 are introduced and discussed in as much detail as the author can amass. We know that Paul often mentions people by name in his letters, but Barnett cross references Acts and the letters to produce a mini-biography of each, thereby illustrating how Paul chose, trained and supported a string of fellow missionaries who so firmly established the emerging Christian church across the eastern Roman Empire to the imperial city itself. This is a fascinating complement to Pauline studies.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:20:10+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:54+00:00","vendor":"Paul W Barnett","type":"Paperback","tags":["Kindle","Leadership","Mission"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769567076452,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465443","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436780798052,"product_id":2439785939044,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:54+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:46+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146","variant_ids":[21769567076452]},"available":false,"name":"Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":182,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465443","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878773387,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878773387,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465443-l.jpg?v=1549043146","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eThe more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in their own time, the more we will be able to apply biblical principles to today's church, its leaders and its mission-transforming and enriching the way we do church today. Paul and His Friends in Leadership examines the apostle Paul's critical relationships with key people, illustrating his humanity, faith, confidence in God and his leadership qualities. This novel approach, by an expert in the New Testament, will encourage us to reflect on leadership in the church today and help us to see how crucial authentic relationships are to our contemporary mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3\u003eContents\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\nPreface\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's greatness\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's life: a sketch\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's calling, his mission and his churches\u003cbr\u003e\r\nPaul's mission to Cyprus and Galatia (AD47 - 48)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eBarnabas, missionary leader\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's mission to the Aegean provinces (AD49 - 57)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSilvanus, missionary and translator \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTimothy, Paul's leading fellow worker \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eLuke, beloved physician and author \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePriscilla and Aquila, merchants \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eStephanas, servant of the saints \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eGaius, host of the church in Corinth \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eApollos, passionate preacher \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eErastus, high-ranking city official \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 1), Paul's ambassador \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphras, evangelist \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhilemon, house-church leader \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eOnesimus, runaway slave \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eJohn Mark, author \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eThe Asiarchs of Ephesus, leading citizens\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003ePhoebe, patroness in Cenchreae \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAristarchus, travel companion \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's mission in Rome (AD57)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndronicus and Junia, Paul's kin \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eRufus, 'chosen in the Lord' \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nPaul's last years (AD60 - 65)\u003cbr\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpaphroditus, carer \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eEuodia and Syntyche, fellow workers \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eTitus (part 2), evangelist in Crete \u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eOnesiphorus, earnest friend \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\nThe origin of love in the writings of Paul\u003cbr\u003e\r\nThe significance of Paul's mission friends\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nPaul W. Barnett is a former Bishop of North Sydney, Australia, and lecturer in New Testament at Moore College, Sydney. He is the author of many well-received and influential books on the New Testament. His two interests are Christian ministry and the world of the early church. His passion is to encourage the practice of biblical principles for ministry in today's world.\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eReview by David Sellick\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBarnett sets out to show that Paul was more of a 'people person' than he is often given credit for and that he offered caring leadership to those with whom he shared mission, so that together 'they changed the world', as the book's subtitle claims. In Acts and Paul's letters about 100 people are named and of these Barnett identifies about forty whom he regards as Paul's key 'mission colleagues'. All named people associated with Paul's missionary work from AD49 to 57 are introduced and discussed in as much detail as the author can amass. We know that Paul often mentions people by name in his letters, but Barnett cross references Acts and the letters to produce a mini-biography of each, thereby illustrating how Paul chose, trained and supported a string of fellow missionaries who so firmly established the emerging Christian church across the eastern Roman Empire to the imperial city itself. This is a fascinating complement to Pauline studies.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Paul and His Friends in Leadership: How they changed the world
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The more we understand biblical characters like the apostle Paul in their specific situations and in their own time, the...
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{"id":2439780597860,"title":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission","handle":"stepping-into-grace-moving-beyond-ambition-to-contemplative-mission","description":"\u003cp\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-14T16:30:49+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:32+00:00","vendor":"Paul Bradbury","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Kindle","Mission","Nov-16","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769492496484,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465238","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436746326116,"product_id":2439780597860,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:32+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:51+00:00","alt":null,"width":427,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","variant_ids":[21769492496484]},"available":false,"name":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":164,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465238","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238878085259,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238878085259,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857465238-l.jpg?v=1549043151","width":427}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission
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Journey with the prophet Jonah... Written by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the...
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{"id":2439774928996,"title":"Confidence in the Living God: David and Goliath Revisited","handle":"confidence-in-the-living-god-david-and-goliath-revisited","description":"\u003cp\u003eConfidence lies at the heart of society, determining the success or failure of the economy, the government, companies, schools, churches and, of course, individuals. As Christians, we are called to proclaim our faith in God, but how can we build and maintain this confidence in an increasingly secularised culture where such faith is often seen as marginal, embarrassing or even downright dangerous?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing the story of David and Goliath, Andrew Watson takes a narrative theology approach to show how the Lord can indeed be our confidence, whatever the odds. He explores how God can develop a proper self-confidence within individuals and his Church, revealing the gospel through transforming words and transformed lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHe considers, too, how we can confidently tackle the challenges of day-to-day living, whether a difficult work situation or family relationship, or simply anxiety about the future. The book includes a study guide and is ideal as a whole church course on the subject of confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e'If there is a quality that needs restoring to the church right now it is a faith-filled confidence in God. This timely and inspiring book is a prophetic call to rise up with a Davidic new boldness in the person and power of the living God. I highly recommend it'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e - Mark Stibbe\u003c\/b\u003e, Leader of The Father's House Trust\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eContents include:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: The call to confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding confident foundations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence, faith and wishful thinking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence within God's Church\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence in the providence of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResponding to godly confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA right self-confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence in sharing the gospel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence-imparting leadership\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence at the coal face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConclusion: The confident Christian\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscussion guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nAndrew Watson is Bishop of Aston and is involved in promoting church growth and leadership across the diocese of Birmingham. He was previously vicar of St Stephen's, East Twickenham, where he helped pioneer three church plants. He has also written The Fourfold Leadership of Jesus (BRF, 2008).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eThe Good Bookstall\u003c\/em\u003e - April 2010\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eA thoughtful exploration of the David and Goliath story, portraying the church as David against its modern-day 'Goliath' - a combination of secularism, militant atheism and indifference. Andrew Watson draws many parallels between the Israel of David's time, who had demanded a king to fight their battles for them, and the church's abandonment of the priesthood of believers in exchange for a clergy\/laity hierarchy, in both cases leading to a damping down of faith and a distancing of themselves from God. The chapters dealing with 'the Eliab reaction' to faith-filled enthusiasts in the congregation will, I'm sure, strike a chord with many of us, and the Biblical evidence that Jesus was all in favour of those with fire in the belly, however imperfect, is food for thought. An interesting read, difficult to put aside and forget, since it is in many ways a call to arms, evoking the spirit of Revelation 2 and 3 for the modern day. Highly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by Dianne Morrison\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChristianity Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs the title suggests, this is a book about confidence (from the Latin meaning 'with faith'), drawing insights from the epic confrontation of David and Goliath. Andrew Watson, Bishop of Aston, explores Goliath's misplaced overconfidence, Saul's tortured self-doubt, Eliab's patronising superiority and David's modest, inspirational trust in God. \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThough the battle in 1 Samuel 17 is between two men, Watson applies the story to the whole Church as well as to individuals, showing how our nerve can be tested both by personal troubles and through public assaults on faith, especially the recent attacks in the media from humanists and atheists. Exploring in detail the narrative of the battle, the author brilliantly probes important themes like values in Christian leadership, effectiveness in evangelism, our suspicion of success and our acceptance of decline. \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWatson's searching biblical investigation, revealing character portraits, lively anecdotes, relevant application and readable style make this an outstanding expository book which is anchored in the real world. The discussion guide at the back will be a great resource for preachers and small groups too.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by John Lambert\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChristian Marketplace\u003c\/em\u003e - June 2009\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOf course leadership models are not just confined to the New Testament. The first part of the Bible is full of inspiring (yet flawed) leaders; great men and women of faith who led God's people through good times and bad. In \u003cem\u003eConfidence in the Living God\u003c\/em\u003e by Andrew Watson, Watson turns from the leadership model of Jesus as explored in his last book (\u003cem\u003eThe Fourfold Leadership of Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e, BRF, 2008) to one of the heroes of the Old Testament, David. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing the story of David and Goliath, he looks at a key characteristic of leadership, that of confidence (in God). The book has some interesting chapter titles including 'Confidence within God's Church', 'A Right Self-Confidence' and 'Confidence-Imparting Leadership'. Due out in July, I have only seen the first part of the book where he points out the importance in leadership of not ignoring the history of the situation you find yourself leading. A good friend of mine has just taken over a new parish and one of his challenges as a leader is to instil confidence in his 'flock' that he is leading them onward yet is mindful of their history too. Perhaps I should give him a copy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n","published_at":"2024-12-13T17:49:14+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:07+00:00","vendor":"Andrew Watson","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","For churches","Kindle","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21769398747236,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464828","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":7436705431652,"product_id":2439774928996,"position":1,"created_at":"2019-01-18T15:22:07+00:00","updated_at":"2019-02-01T17:45:56+00:00","alt":null,"width":426,"height":650,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156","variant_ids":[21769398747236]},"available":false,"name":"Confidence in the Living God: David and Goliath Revisited - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":233,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464828","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":3238877626507,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3238877626507,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"width":426,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156"},"aspect_ratio":0.655,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857464828-l.jpg?v=1549043156","width":426}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eConfidence lies at the heart of society, determining the success or failure of the economy, the government, companies, schools, churches and, of course, individuals. As Christians, we are called to proclaim our faith in God, but how can we build and maintain this confidence in an increasingly secularised culture where such faith is often seen as marginal, embarrassing or even downright dangerous?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing the story of David and Goliath, Andrew Watson takes a narrative theology approach to show how the Lord can indeed be our confidence, whatever the odds. He explores how God can develop a proper self-confidence within individuals and his Church, revealing the gospel through transforming words and transformed lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHe considers, too, how we can confidently tackle the challenges of day-to-day living, whether a difficult work situation or family relationship, or simply anxiety about the future. The book includes a study guide and is ideal as a whole church course on the subject of confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e'If there is a quality that needs restoring to the church right now it is a faith-filled confidence in God. This timely and inspiring book is a prophetic call to rise up with a Davidic new boldness in the person and power of the living God. I highly recommend it'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e - Mark Stibbe\u003c\/b\u003e, Leader of The Father's House Trust\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eContents include:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: The call to confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding confident foundations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence, faith and wishful thinking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence within God's Church\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence in the providence of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResponding to godly confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA right self-confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence in sharing the gospel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence-imparting leadership\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfidence at the coal face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConclusion: The confident Christian\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscussion guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\nAndrew Watson is Bishop of Aston and is involved in promoting church growth and leadership across the diocese of Birmingham. He was previously vicar of St Stephen's, East Twickenham, where he helped pioneer three church plants. He has also written The Fourfold Leadership of Jesus (BRF, 2008).\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eThe Good Bookstall\u003c\/em\u003e - April 2010\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eA thoughtful exploration of the David and Goliath story, portraying the church as David against its modern-day 'Goliath' - a combination of secularism, militant atheism and indifference. Andrew Watson draws many parallels between the Israel of David's time, who had demanded a king to fight their battles for them, and the church's abandonment of the priesthood of believers in exchange for a clergy\/laity hierarchy, in both cases leading to a damping down of faith and a distancing of themselves from God. The chapters dealing with 'the Eliab reaction' to faith-filled enthusiasts in the congregation will, I'm sure, strike a chord with many of us, and the Biblical evidence that Jesus was all in favour of those with fire in the belly, however imperfect, is food for thought. An interesting read, difficult to put aside and forget, since it is in many ways a call to arms, evoking the spirit of Revelation 2 and 3 for the modern day. Highly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by Dianne Morrison\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChristianity Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs the title suggests, this is a book about confidence (from the Latin meaning 'with faith'), drawing insights from the epic confrontation of David and Goliath. Andrew Watson, Bishop of Aston, explores Goliath's misplaced overconfidence, Saul's tortured self-doubt, Eliab's patronising superiority and David's modest, inspirational trust in God. \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThough the battle in 1 Samuel 17 is between two men, Watson applies the story to the whole Church as well as to individuals, showing how our nerve can be tested both by personal troubles and through public assaults on faith, especially the recent attacks in the media from humanists and atheists. Exploring in detail the narrative of the battle, the author brilliantly probes important themes like values in Christian leadership, effectiveness in evangelism, our suspicion of success and our acceptance of decline. \u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWatson's searching biblical investigation, revealing character portraits, lively anecdotes, relevant application and readable style make this an outstanding expository book which is anchored in the real world. The discussion guide at the back will be a great resource for preachers and small groups too.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by John Lambert\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eChristian Marketplace\u003c\/em\u003e - June 2009\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOf course leadership models are not just confined to the New Testament. The first part of the Bible is full of inspiring (yet flawed) leaders; great men and women of faith who led God's people through good times and bad. In \u003cem\u003eConfidence in the Living God\u003c\/em\u003e by Andrew Watson, Watson turns from the leadership model of Jesus as explored in his last book (\u003cem\u003eThe Fourfold Leadership of Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e, BRF, 2008) to one of the heroes of the Old Testament, David. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing the story of David and Goliath, he looks at a key characteristic of leadership, that of confidence (in God). The book has some interesting chapter titles including 'Confidence within God's Church', 'A Right Self-Confidence' and 'Confidence-Imparting Leadership'. Due out in July, I have only seen the first part of the book where he points out the importance in leadership of not ignoring the history of the situation you find yourself leading. A good friend of mine has just taken over a new parish and one of his challenges as a leader is to instil confidence in his 'flock' that he is leading them onward yet is mindful of their history too. Perhaps I should give him a copy.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n"}
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{"id":2439736492132,"title":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture","handle":"whole-life-whole-bible-50-readings-on-living-in-the-light-of-scripture","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:48+00:00","created_at":"2019-01-18T15:19:49+00:00","vendor":"Antony Billington","type":"Paperback","tags":["Devotional","Jan-12","Kindle"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":21768913059940,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857460172","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":16948117373080,"product_id":2439736492132,"position":1,"created_at":"2020-05-21T11:23:21+01:00","updated_at":"2020-05-21T11:23:27+01:00","alt":null,"width":1000,"height":1524,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","variant_ids":[21768913059940]},"available":true,"name":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":899,"weight":176,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857460172","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":9121967898776,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":9121967898776,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857460172.jpg?v=1590056607","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture
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Where we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and...
{"id":2920842592356,"title":"God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Wrestling honestly with the Old Testament","handle":"god-of-violence-yesterday-god-of-love-today-wrestling-honestly-with-the-old-testament","description":"\u003cp\u003eDo you find the violence in the Old Testament a problem?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDoes it get in the way of reading the Bible – and of faith itself?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhile acknowledging that there are no easy answers, in \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today\u003c\/em\u003e?, Helen Paynter faces the tough questions head-on and offers a fresh, accessible approach to a significant issue. For all those seeking to engage with the Bible and gain confidence in the God it portrays, she provides tools for reading and interpreting biblical texts, and points to ways of dealing with the overall trajectories of violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/HelenPaynterseriousface_480x480.jpg?v=1676497452\" width=\"284\" height=\"189\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing a first career in medicine, Helen Paynter is now a Baptist minister, Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol Baptist College, and Editor of BRF’s Guidelines Bible reading notes. Helen is passionate about helping people to get to grips with the Bible because she has seen its power to transform lives. She loves to study it, preach it, teach it, and encourage others to study and understand it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Copan, Professor of Philosophy and Ethics at the Palm Beach Atlantic University, the author of 'Is God a Moral Monster?', and the co-author of 'Did God Really Command Genocide?'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s exploration of Old Testament ethical challenges is insightful, balanced and honest. I appreciate the fact that she does not deny divine severity while putting in perspective God's goodness. She admits that she is still wrestling and learning, as indeed I am. She humbly but boldly approaches an array of key topics and she writes with deep pastoral concern. Her treatment of the imprecatory psalms is particularly effective and illuminating. While I have a few quibbles here and there, I want to emphasize the spirit, the breadth, and the balance of this book. It sheds light on a complex and controversial subject, encouraging further conversation and deeper understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev'd Dr. Lissa M. Wray Beal, Professor of Old Testament, Chair, Seminary Bible and Theology Department, Providence University College and Theological Seminary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Honestly wrestling with the Old Testament\u003c\/em\u003e, Helen Paynter tackles problematic texts of violence in the Old Testament. The questions Paynter asks are pressing ones today, and she sketches out the complex issues clearly but without undue oversimplification. Outlining valuable principles of interpretation and applying them in worked examples, the author’s candor and pastoral attentiveness invite readers into the conversation. The volume models Christian engagement with the biblical text and shows the value of \u003cem\u003ehonest wrestling\u003c\/em\u003e within the text’s own vision of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e. Providing tools to think not only about specific texts of violence, but the biblical text more broadly, it is a welcome and compact initial resource for Christian laypeople troubled by biblical texts of violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Meredith Editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship, the publication of the NZ Lay Preachers Association\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn lucid prose Helen Paynter argues that violence featured in the biblical canon should not be ignored or denied but acknowledged and faced honestly. While history is played out in a broken and often violent world the author shows how the movement of scripture is toward God’s creative intention for healing and wholeness. Without providing final answers Paynter offers ways of interpreting even the most violent passages so that we may hear God’s word for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Natalie Collins, gender justice specialist: see \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.nataliecollins.info\/\"\u003ewww.nataliecollins.info\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eTweets as GodLovesWomen and wrote \u003cem\u003eOut of Control: Couples, Conflict and the Capacity for Change\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis relatively small book faces some massive theological questions about the nature of violence in the Old Testament. Exploring different types of violence in the Bible, including that against animals, and perhaps the most troubling, when it appears that God commands genocide, Helen Paynter expertly guides us through complex theological terrain and explains this complexity in down to earth and easily accessible ways. This book is ideal for someone with no\u003cbr\u003etheological training to begin exploring challenging elements of the Bible, with those with formal theological training also able to learn from her. Those in church leadership should read this book so they are able to recommend it to their congregations. While challenging, the book seems to be pitched to a conservative 'Bible believing' audience, which may jar with those who have a more liberal approach to Scripture, but overall it’s a great, engaging, manageably short book. As Helen says, she can’t wholly resolve the tensions of the most problematic texts, but she does give much food for thought and some\u003cbr\u003etools for Christians who want to more ably identify where God is in the text and what God is saying to us through it.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Natalie Collins\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheology 2019, Vol 122(6). Review by Robin Gill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is a Baptist minister and director of the new Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol. This accessible and refreshingly honest paperback, published by The Bible Reading Fellowship is very welcome indeed. It examines carefully some of the most troublesome texts in the Old Testament and it does so in stages, as she explains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'First, we will consider instances where violence is \u003cem\u003ede\u003c\/em\u003escribed, not \u003cem\u003epre\u003c\/em\u003escribed\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eNext we will look at places – mainly the psalms – where violence is implored: where the psalmist prays for vengeance. Third, we will consider the issue of violence against animals, particularly the flood story and the system of animal sacrifice. Fourth, we will look at the use of violence as divine judgement. And fifth, we will look at the knottiest problem of all: the texts where God appears to command people to be violent to one another. At the end of most of the chapters in this section I offer some more practical suggestions. How should we handle these texts in our churches – in our pulpits, our home groups, our Sunday schools? And then, in the final chapter, we will ‘zoom back out’ and take a look at the big picture of the bible.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is nothing particularly novel about any of this, but that is not the point. Her message needs to be heard in a context of widespread fear of religiously inspired violence. This small book and her new Centre make an excellent contribution to greater understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Robin Gill\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnabaptism Today Autumn 2019. Review by Alexandra Ellish\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people from both within and outside of church communities are confused and uncomfortable with accounts of violence in the Scriptures, and the all too frequent appeal to biblical sources to justify modern-day warfare, military action and the ownership of weapons. In this helpful and accessible book, Helen Paynter seeks to address some of the questions and issues raised by texts containing violence in the Old Testament and considers how we might interpret and understand them today. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into two sections. Part One sets out some essential foundations – reading the Bible as God’s word; defining and understanding violence within the ancient world; and some possible tools for interpretation. The second part of the book considers five types of violence, ranging with increasing complexity from: texts with descriptive versus prescriptive accounts of violence; texts imploring the use of violence; the sacrificial system and a consideration of the flood; violence as used in accounts of divine judgement; and finally texts in which God seems to be commanding violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen reading violence contained in the psalms, the author notes the importance of paying attention to the psalmist’s use of language – particularly allegory and metaphor – to argue for a deeper reading of the texts. While there are psalms calling for God to punish enemies, this desire is usually held in tension with an acknowledgement of ultimate trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Paynter suggests that psalms which implore God to use violence to exact vengeance on enemies or oppressors have cathartic value in the context of communal worship – that these psalms remind us that we can bring all of our experiences and humanity to God in worship. Paynter advocates using the imprecatory psalms in worship today by depersonalising the ‘enemies’ of God and people to include issues around ecological catastrophe, serious and debilitating illness, domestic violence and all things which result in death. As the church frequently draws on the psalms of joy and thanksgiving for times of celebration and praise, this encouragement takes seriously the possibility of expressing painful, difficult and angry feelings that we have, in the context of a community of faith which trusts that God is in charge and loves his people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fourth chapter considers violence in divine judgement as a reminder of the nature of God as a just judge who is our friend and ‘brother’ but is also ‘unbearable’ in his holiness. Paynter discusses the positive aspects of the law of \u003cem\u003etalion\u003c\/em\u003e which, she argues, Jesus extends rather than repudiates. The penultimate chapter is devoted to texts where violence is explicitly commanded by God. This chapter covers the most difficult passages, where Paynter untangles the complexity of defining the word \u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e. This word is often translated as ‘utterly destroy’ or ‘devote to complete destruction’ but its meaning is somewhat veiled. Paynter suggests that \u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e ‘does not always involve killing or destroying’ but that ‘\u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e sometimes involves killing’ (p. 128). She states that she cannot offer a definitive answer to the questions surrounding conquest and apparent mass killing, but that the word \u003cem\u003eḥerem \u003c\/em\u003eis used for rhetorical and hyperbolic purposes to portray events in a particular way in the ancient world. Paynter’s honesty and humility in the recognition that her offering might be only partially satisfactory and her desire to continue to ‘nibble’ (p. 153) at the issue alongside others is immensely refreshing and rare! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the final chapter, Paynter considers the arc of the biblical narrative and argues that the vision of God demonstrated throughout the Scriptures is for \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e for all of creation. While I was pleased to see the concept of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e included in the book, I thought that more could have been made of this subject and how we might understand \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e in relation to violence in the Old Testament. Similarly, in an early chapter the centrality of the life and person of Jesus as a lens for interpretation is briefly mentioned but not elaborated. Since I come to the topic of violence with Anabaptist convictions, perhaps it is no surprise that I would have enjoyed a fuller consideration of these subjects earlier in the book, instead of waiting until the final chapter for a somewhat limited exploration of the concept of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter assumes that the value of the image of the eating of the forbidden fruit in the garden of Eden and the subsequent ‘fall’ is to explain the entry of death, competition and violence into the world. This understanding all too easily reduces Jesus to nothing more than a rescuer come to reverse the fall. I am not sure how helpful this is. \u003cem\u003eShalom\u003c\/em\u003e is the narrative arc of our Scriptures; Jesus who is the Christ is\/was, in my view, always going to be the incarnation of God on earth as a pattern for humanity. This impacts how we understand the crucifixion of Jesus, and I would have been interested to read more from Paynter on this issue. Particularly for our western Protestant tradition, which has largely abandoned other atonement theories to focus on the (arguably violent) theory of penal substitution, are there more appropriate ways of exploring and articulating the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ which fulfil rather than undermine a \u003cem\u003eshalom \u003c\/em\u003enarrative?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter is categorical in her rejection of the appropriation of violence from the Old Testament texts for today, and also touches very briefly on the inappropriate conflation of the historic nation of Israel and the modern state. More on this issue would have been instructive, particularly as many pro-Israel churches support the government and its policies of occupation in Palestine based on their understanding of texts from the Old Testament.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found Paynter’s writing style clear and engaging. She uses interesting and relevant examples to illustrate the issues she is dealing with, often drawing on contemporary stories. It is clear that Paynter is passionate about the importance of the Old Testament for personal and corporate faith today, and she argues persuasively for and offers numerous practical suggestions for wrestling with the Scriptures communally and individually. Paynter also suggests a wide range of other books for the reader to delve more deeply into the issues she has raised. I look forward to further publications from Paynter as she continues to wrestle with the Bible, in search of fresh insight and understanding to inform our discipleship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alexandra Ellish, London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Ministers Journal. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is timely, courageous and good. I therefore strongly recommend it to you and your church members. Revd Dr Helen Paynter of Bristol Baptist College has tackled one of the hot issues of the moment, the violence in the Old Testament (OT). It’s unlikely that you have not been asked about this by someone within or outside your congregation; if not, you’ll get the question soon: ‘How can a loving God condone and even order so much violence?’ Paynter helps you to give a Bible-based answer. She does not follow the common escape routes of either denying that this is what the OT really says or ascribing the violence to human authors who had not quite understood God. Instead she listens attentively to what the OT really says.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is in two parts, the first of which is a general introduction to the Bible and how to read it well. Paynter explains that her approach will be biblical and Christocentric, and she defends the position of the OT within the Christian scriptures. As a potted hermeneutic this part of the book has a more general value. For example, readers learn about the various genres in the Bible and about the distinction between description and endorsement. Here we also find a useful chapter on what violence is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the second part Paynter tackles the OT in concentric circles, beginning with the relatively simple texts in which violence is merely described. This is followed by texts in which violence is deplored, psalms which call upon God to use violence, texts about violence against animals and texts in which the use of violence is part of a divine judgement. Throughout her discussions are careful and helpful. Paynter’s response to the usual argument that the Canaanites deserved to be punished for their wickedness was a surprise to me; if you want to know what it is, buy and read the book! The final chapter, intended as a positive counterpart to the preceding misery, deals with God’s plan of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e for his good creation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout Paynter’s tone is humble. She is honest about her own struggles and about points where she is uncertain. She refers to the book of Joshua as something that ‘feels alien and disturbing’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the most part, the book is easy to read; at times it is almost basic, which means that it is largely right for many church members. At the end of the chapters there are summaries and the notes are tucked away as end-notes. Some may find it uncomfortable that Paynter describes the flood as a myth (94-95), but that should not distract anybody.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo it is a perfect book? No, because it contains some typos and there is no index of texts. Some elements of the discussion might still be complicated for ‘lay people’. I would also have liked to read a bit more about the character of God. But these minor quibbles are just that: minor quibbles. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, issue 20, Autumn 2019. Review by Tom Wharin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the third book I’ve read on the subject of violence in the Bible in the last couple of years and it is also the most helpful. \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence yesterday, God of Love Today? \u003c\/em\u003eHas a clear and helpful structure even if the title is a bit of a mouthful. Helen Paynter starts by laying out her unapologetically Christocentric hermeneutic (to which I also subscribe). She then works through the biblical texts containing violence, from the ones she regards as least troubling (violence implored by the writer) to the ones she considers most troubling (violence commanded by God).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book does contain plenty of literary and historical-critical arguments which won’t appeal to a wide popular audience but Helen Paynter is very readable. Theological concepts are well explained with reference to everyday events, familiar news and historical stories. In addition to her marshalling her own thoughts well, Helen Paynter draws on and explains some of the best arguments in John H. Walton \u0026amp; J. Harvey Walton’s and Greg Boyd’s books (among others) in a way that makes them more accessible to readers like me than the originals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an apologia for violence in the Bible to twenty-first century western culture, the book as a whole feels like a pretty solid bridge two-thirds of the way across a cultural canyon. The reader is left with more construction to do on either cliff or both, and the author honestly acknowledges this as our work and hers in the introduction and conclusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI will definitely be recommending this book to anyone from sixth form up who is serious about engaging with God’s word on this subject. The structure will make it easy to dip back into for sermon references and it will serve very well as an introduction to this area of apologetics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Tom Wharin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 16 August, 2019. Summer paperback roundup by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e the author Helen Paynter has tried to tackle one of the most difficult questions of biblical theology. Why is it that the God of the Old Testament seems to sanction war and what we might today call ethnic cleansing, while the God of the New Testament seems to be all about love? This simple stereotyping of the argument is well dealt with, giving us many ideas to reflect on. She does not come to easy answers, but you will feel considerably better informed. This is a book to read a couple of times and perhaps to share with a reading group to think through the many issues that it raises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by David Ball, GOLD Project, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis short book deals with one of the thorniest subjects for Christians who believe that God is love and at the same time believe that the Christian Scriptures in their totality are God’s word to us. Helen Paynter does not shy away from any of the challenges that passages of violence in the Scriptures, particularly the Old Testament, bring to a theology of God’s love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart one introduces us to some key skills for interpreting the Old Testament. God’s goodness and the ultimate revelation of this in Jesus Christ sets the theological foundation by which we are to interpret the Scriptures. From this starting point, we are ably guided through what we do and what we don’t mean when we speak of the Bible as God’s Word to us. Here the indispensable place of the Old Testament for our Christian faith is emphasised. If we need a clear theological foundation to interpret the Bible responsibly, we also need a clear understanding of the issue we are dealing with. For this we are led through a careful discussion of the complexity of violence and how it manifests itself in society. This prepares us to look at the nature of the Old Testament and especially the challenge to understand the worldview of its writers and audience which is so often far removed from our own. Reading each passage of the Old Testament in the context of the big story of Scripture, understanding the type of literature that we are reading and wrestling with the meaning of the text are all key skills to hearing the message better. Another important reminder is to let different and apparently contradictory narratives or themes contribute to the big picture of how Scripture conveys a multi-layered voice on key issues such as human kingship. All of these skills prepare us to address the particular issue of violence and the Bible in more depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart two does precisely this. Here we engage with the texts of violence under five (increasingly problematic) headings: Violence described, Violence implored, Violence against animals, Violence as divine judgement, Violence commanded. In each of these chapters, a clear attempt is made to compare and contrast the biblical context with our own and to draw out the significance of texts for our own day. We are carefully guided through the different types of violence each of which demand a different response. For example, describing violence in both the Old Testament and our own day does not necessarily endorse it. On the contrary, it often gives a voice to victims who would otherwise be denied justice and a hearing. Imploring violence is better than actual violence and is not necessarily endorsed by the text either. As we are led into the more problematic aspects of violence in the Old Testament, we are necessarily introduced to more technical aspects of biblical interpretation. Nevertheless, these are explained clearly. While not everyone will agree with some of the readings of the Old Testament, what becomes clear is that it is possible to grapple with even the most difficult Old Testament texts and not lose our integrity as those who believe in a just and loving God revealed in the totality of our Scriptures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final chapter seeks to bring a resolution and explain that the trajectory of the biblical narrative is towards the biblical idea of shalom. Normally translated ‘peace’ the ‘core meaning relates to completeness or intactness and the range of meanings includes prosperity, welfare, good relationships, deliverance and health’ (p.157) It is a vision of this shalom that drives the narrative of the Bible forward from its beginning in Genesis to its conclusion in the New Testament book of Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skill of interpreting the Bible responsibly in today’s world is one that anyone can learn. It is not easy and involves a struggle, but, above all, this is the significance of this book. For, while it addresses the particularly thorny issue of violence, it does far more than this. It gives us a practical model of how to wrestle with difficult issues in the Bible and society, seeking to listen to each text within the big framework of Scripture and to understand how this relates to our own context. Through this process, we can learn the skills of hearing God’s voice for today even in the difficult parts of the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Ball, GOLD Project\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform July\/August 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a particularly apposite book for our current political situation. John Lennon wrote the song ‘Imagine’, longing for a peaceful world, assuming that religion is one of the main causes of conflict. It would be lovely to be able to say that Christian scriptures do not advocate violence, or that only the Old Testament shows God as angry and violent. The temptation is to avoid difficult and violent Bible passages. Yet, the Old Testament is an essential part of the Christian scriptures. Helen Paynter shows that it is too simplistic to separate the Old Testament from the New.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter acknowledges that violence is apparently directed and endorsed by God in Old Testament texts. In an intellectually rigorous and accessible way, Paynter wrestles with each text to show that in many cases, the violence may become more understandable, and in some cases may be fully explained. She shows that each story needs to be carefully read in the context of ancient Hebrew language and culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, Paynter compares the battle of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17 – in which David beheads Goliath – with Adam and Eve’s temptation by the serpent (Genesis 3). In both stories, there is a battle that will determine who has dominion and an evil force mocks God’s favoured. In the latter story, God curses the serpent and says that he will bruise the serpent’s head. God will have victory in the end. Though David – God’s chosen king, descended of Eve – is mocked by the giant who defies God, he is victorious. The pattern points to a greater king to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter warns of the need to be careful how these passages are taught to children, and how they are used in preaching. This is an exceedingly helpful book for anyone who wants to honestly teach and preach the scriptures for contemporary society, affirming God’s plan for peace in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Ball, Minister of the Free Church, St Ives, and Fenstanton URC, Cambridgeshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices Issue 30,September 2019. Review by Ray Vincent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol Baptist College and the new Editor of BRF’s \u003cem\u003eGuidelines \u003c\/em\u003eBible reading notes. She is well placed to write this very accessible book. She deals with the problem in a very straightforward, systematic way, beginning with the less difficult and moving on to the most difficult ones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst she considers the places in the Bible where violence is simply described as part of the story. Then she moves on to where suffering people pray for vengeance on their oppressors – a natural human reaction. Next, violence against animals, pointing out the huge cultural difference between the Bible’s world and ours. Then she tackles violence as divine judgement, and finally the most difficult problem, the places where God seems actually to command acts of violence against innocent people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter approaches the problem humbly, freely acknowledging that she does not have the answers but is still wrestling with the questions. However, it seems to me that her perception of the violence as a ‘problem’ comes from her relatively conservative view of the Bible as the Word of God. While acknowledging the humanity of the Bible and reading it in the light of critical scholarship, she seems nevertheless to be trying to justify everything it says, and hesitates to say that parts of it may be simply mistaken.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI suspect that the way in which most of us perceive the Bible means that we do not see the violence in it as a ‘problem’ in this kind of way. At the same time, this book is clear, honest and admirably arranged. It is well worth using as a basis for discussion in churches. Some Progressive Christian Network groups too might find it useful. It is informative, reminding us of parts of the Bible we sometimes neglect, and it is thought-provoking and sometimes challenging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Ray Vincent\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by David Mitchell, Pastor, Woodlands Church, Bristol. May 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen has written a book on one of the most difficult questions Christians face. In it she has managed to be both accessible, compassionate and scholarly as she navigates the tension between a high view of scripture and yet its depiction of God’s apparent actions and decrees in ways which offend our most basic instincts of what is good and loving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe begins with a really helpful guide to reading the bible well whatever (and wherever) the biblical text is addressing, which I would commend to any serious reader of the bible, especially those coming to it fresh. She goes on to deal specifically with the issues of violence, not just to people; animals are included. She gives really helpful cultural context to hard passages without ducking some of the difficulties and ambiguities that remain even for her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe invites us foundationally to see Jesus as God’s last word on the issue of violence and to read the Old Testament not just as a foundation for the revelation of Jesus but as sacred texts which He provides the ultimate guide to understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Andy Goodliff, May 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is a Baptist minister and Old Testament scholar based at Bristol Baptist College. This is her second book. Her first, a version of her PhD, was Reduced Laughter, looking at how to read the books of 1 \u0026amp; 2 Kings. This second book, written for a broad audience, engages with the thorn of subjects violence in the Old Testament. It arrives at the same time as the work of the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bristol-baptist.ac.uk\/study-centres\/csbv\/\"\u003eCentre for the Study of the Bible and Violence\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(CSBV) begins, of which Paynter is the Director. The book comes in two parts. The first establishes some 'foundations' — reading the Bible as God's word, how to read the Bible well and what is meant or encompassed by the word 'violence.' The chapter in reading the Bible well is especially helpful in offering some important lessons. The second half of the book seeks through 5 chapters to engage with the most serious of questions around the Old Testament and violence. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese 5 chapters make a series of important points. When violence is described, it is not always (often?) being endorsed. An example is given in the story of Samson. Paynter provides a different way of reading the book of Judges that pays attention to how the book is narrated. When violence is implored, as is the case of a good number of Psalms, there is a cry for justice and handing over of that desire for vengeance to God. Violence against animals is not as wanton as might be supposed. Paynter offers some helpful readings of the story of the flood in Genesis 6-9 and the place of sacrifices within Israel's worship. The fourth and fifth chapters explore violence as divine judgement and violence as commanded (e.g. the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eherem\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epassages in Joshua). These questions are more difficult to address, and Paynter acknowledges, that this is not her last word on them, but almost a first foray into these questions, in conversation with wider scholarship. She takes us carefully through the importance of justice, the meaning of the law of talion (eye for an eye), a reading of the death of Uzzah (2 Sam 6) and in the latter chapter the meaning of the word\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eherem\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA final chapter suggests that God's great plan in the Old Testament is shalom (peace) and we read it with trajectory in mind. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an excellent book, which wears its scholarship lightly. Paynter has a great way of explaining and the book is an easy read, although exploring difficult questions. The book seeks as its subtitle suggests to 'wrestle honestly' with the violence found in the Old Testament. It doesn't have, and doesn't promise, a magic solution, but does show that a surface level reading will miss or overlook at more subtle ways the Bible describes and responds to violence. I look forward to future explorations that I'm sure will be forthcoming from Paynter and the CSBV that will continue to reach a broad audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Andy Goodliff. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andygoodliff.typepad.com\/my_weblog\/2019\/05\/helen-paynter-god-of-violence-yesterday-god-of-love-today-brf-2019.html\" title=\"Andy Goodliff on God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\"\u003eClick \u003c\/a\u003ehere for blog.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Peter King, Diocese of Chichester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver the past few years I have become increasingly troubled by the violence in the Bible. Although this is a subject we don’t often talk about in our churches, I know from a number of informal conversations that many churchgoers (and others) have questions they would like to explore on these issues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished to coincide with June’s inaugural events of Bristol College’s Centre for the Study of Bible \u0026amp; Violence, Helen Paynter’s new book offers a rigorous yet accessible exploration of Old Testament violence ideal for individuals or groups wishing to engage with these troubling texts and the issues they raise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into two parts. The first part offers valuable groundwork on the nature of the Bible and the nature of violence, and concludes with some very helpful suggestions on 'Reading the Bible well'. It is good to be reminded that the reason that texts of violence disturb us is because of our core belief that God is good. It is important, too, to be made aware that just because the Bible describes violence this does not necessarily mean that it commends it. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second part identifies a range of types of violent text, and discusses these in ascending order of importance from what is termed 'Violence described' through 'Violence implored' and 'Violence against animals' (sacrifice) to 'Violence as divine judgement and what is the standout case for most people Violence commanded. I found this a very helpful way of classifying the different examples of violence in the OT. Each chapter concludes with some thoughts on how the type of texts under discussion might be read and used in churches today. Here I was particularly struck by what the author sees as the pastoral implications of ignoring the texts of 'Violence described'. By ignoring these stories of interpersonal and sexual violence we risk silencing those for whom they are a reality in their lives today. Yes, indeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book concludes with a chapter entitled 'Shalom: God’s great plan', which puts the violent texts in the context of what is arguably an even more significant OT theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author herself acknowledges at the end of the chapter on 'Violence commanded' that 'there might be more to say' on these most troubling of all the texts of violence. Not everyone will agree with the suggested interpretation, but I hope that all will agree on the important suggestions for reading them 'with ethical integrity' both in our churches and beyond. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in the questions it explores. If you are new to the subject, it offers a comprehensive introduction and the reassurance that you are being guided by a capable and safe pair of hands as you begin to engage with challenging and important issues. If, like me, you are familiar with some of the literature on the subject, reading it will surely bring new insights and ideas. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePeter King trained at Bristol Baptist College and now works for the Anglican Diocese of Chichester in adult theological education.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWord \u0026amp; Worship, journal of the New Zealand Lay Preachers Association, Winter 2019 (June). Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter addresses the question of biblical violence honestly and without proposing any final answer. She is clear that what is in the scriptures should be neither hidden nor denied and that the Old Testament God of judgement should not be contrasted with the New Testament God of grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter recognises that while violence may be deliberately aggressive it may also find expression through oppressive social structures. Colonisation and cultural devaluation are examples of this. Violence may also be associated with polarising rhetoric. We need think only of the ‘war on terror’ against nations defined as evil. We should not think that violence may be consigned to savage antiquity from which we have moved on. It is still possible to think that with bombs, rather than swords, we are doing God’s will.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we consider episodes of violence in the Bible, Paynter invites readers to reflect on the narrators’ purposes. For example, in Judges 19 we find the gang rape and murder of a concubine. This is deeply shocking, but also draws attention to the appalling consequences for a defenceless woman in a society without law or leadership. Although part of the biblical text, such stories are not usually read in public worship, yet the airing of such stories may allow women who have experienced sexual violence to feel heard and present opportunities for pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBiblical writers recognise the reality of emotions such as anger and desire for revenge arising within the human heart. But rather than being encouraged to give reign to free expression of such emotions we are invited to leave vengeance to God who is just and merciful. The concept of ‘an eye for an eye’ should, Paynter believes, be understood as defining the limitation of personal vengeance, a limitation which Jesus extends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModern sensitivities may cause us to shudder at the conquest of Canaan recorded in the book of Joshua where slaughter seems to be commanded by God. Rather than a literal record of history Paynter suggests the story may be understood as a type of biblical literature dealing with God bringing order out of chaos and affirming the identity of Israel as God’s covenant people. This does not mean, however, that it can be used to support modern Israel’s actions towards Palestine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Hebrew mind God was awesome in holiness with power to create and to destroy. The stories of creation are placed at the beginning of the Old Testament as affirmation of God’s perfect design and intention for universal shalom\/ wholeness. History is played out in a broken and often violent world, but the law and the prophets point to God’s creative intention for healing and wholeness and this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not for us to edit from the Bible what offends us. We must learn to read with understanding. Helen Paynter writes clearly and makes a major contribution to informed reading so that we may hear and interpret God’s word for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Meredith was ordained in the Methodist Church of New Zealand and has completed post-graduate study at Spurgeon’s College, London. John has served in pastoral roles in New Zealand and Western Australia. He is currently editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship, the publication of the NZ Lay Preachers Association and reviews books on theological and biblical themes.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2019-02-27T11:27:42+00:00","created_at":"2019-02-27T11:31:44+00:00","vendor":"Helen Paynter","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Group reading","Kindle"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":24703390875748,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466396","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Wrestling honestly with the Old Testament","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":186,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466396","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466396-l.jpg?v=1551267108","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/kindle_books_with_logo_1.png?v=1734105719"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466396-l.jpg?v=1551267108","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3260489498763,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"width":427,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466396-l.jpg?v=1551267108"},"aspect_ratio":0.657,"height":650,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857466396-l.jpg?v=1551267108","width":427},{"alt":null,"id":63561871294844,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/kindle_books_with_logo_1.png?v=1734105719"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/kindle_books_with_logo_1.png?v=1734105719","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eDo you find the violence in the Old Testament a problem?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDoes it get in the way of reading the Bible – and of faith itself?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhile acknowledging that there are no easy answers, in \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today\u003c\/em\u003e?, Helen Paynter faces the tough questions head-on and offers a fresh, accessible approach to a significant issue. For all those seeking to engage with the Bible and gain confidence in the God it portrays, she provides tools for reading and interpreting biblical texts, and points to ways of dealing with the overall trajectories of violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/HelenPaynterseriousface_480x480.jpg?v=1676497452\" width=\"284\" height=\"189\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing a first career in medicine, Helen Paynter is now a Baptist minister, Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol Baptist College, and Editor of BRF’s Guidelines Bible reading notes. Helen is passionate about helping people to get to grips with the Bible because she has seen its power to transform lives. She loves to study it, preach it, teach it, and encourage others to study and understand it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Copan, Professor of Philosophy and Ethics at the Palm Beach Atlantic University, the author of 'Is God a Moral Monster?', and the co-author of 'Did God Really Command Genocide?'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter’s exploration of Old Testament ethical challenges is insightful, balanced and honest. I appreciate the fact that she does not deny divine severity while putting in perspective God's goodness. She admits that she is still wrestling and learning, as indeed I am. She humbly but boldly approaches an array of key topics and she writes with deep pastoral concern. Her treatment of the imprecatory psalms is particularly effective and illuminating. While I have a few quibbles here and there, I want to emphasize the spirit, the breadth, and the balance of this book. It sheds light on a complex and controversial subject, encouraging further conversation and deeper understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev'd Dr. Lissa M. Wray Beal, Professor of Old Testament, Chair, Seminary Bible and Theology Department, Providence University College and Theological Seminary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Honestly wrestling with the Old Testament\u003c\/em\u003e, Helen Paynter tackles problematic texts of violence in the Old Testament. The questions Paynter asks are pressing ones today, and she sketches out the complex issues clearly but without undue oversimplification. Outlining valuable principles of interpretation and applying them in worked examples, the author’s candor and pastoral attentiveness invite readers into the conversation. The volume models Christian engagement with the biblical text and shows the value of \u003cem\u003ehonest wrestling\u003c\/em\u003e within the text’s own vision of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e. Providing tools to think not only about specific texts of violence, but the biblical text more broadly, it is a welcome and compact initial resource for Christian laypeople troubled by biblical texts of violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Meredith Editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship, the publication of the NZ Lay Preachers Association\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn lucid prose Helen Paynter argues that violence featured in the biblical canon should not be ignored or denied but acknowledged and faced honestly. While history is played out in a broken and often violent world the author shows how the movement of scripture is toward God’s creative intention for healing and wholeness. Without providing final answers Paynter offers ways of interpreting even the most violent passages so that we may hear God’s word for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Natalie Collins, gender justice specialist: see \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.nataliecollins.info\/\"\u003ewww.nataliecollins.info\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eTweets as GodLovesWomen and wrote \u003cem\u003eOut of Control: Couples, Conflict and the Capacity for Change\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis relatively small book faces some massive theological questions about the nature of violence in the Old Testament. Exploring different types of violence in the Bible, including that against animals, and perhaps the most troubling, when it appears that God commands genocide, Helen Paynter expertly guides us through complex theological terrain and explains this complexity in down to earth and easily accessible ways. This book is ideal for someone with no\u003cbr\u003etheological training to begin exploring challenging elements of the Bible, with those with formal theological training also able to learn from her. Those in church leadership should read this book so they are able to recommend it to their congregations. While challenging, the book seems to be pitched to a conservative 'Bible believing' audience, which may jar with those who have a more liberal approach to Scripture, but overall it’s a great, engaging, manageably short book. As Helen says, she can’t wholly resolve the tensions of the most problematic texts, but she does give much food for thought and some\u003cbr\u003etools for Christians who want to more ably identify where God is in the text and what God is saying to us through it.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Natalie Collins\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheology 2019, Vol 122(6). Review by Robin Gill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is a Baptist minister and director of the new Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol. This accessible and refreshingly honest paperback, published by The Bible Reading Fellowship is very welcome indeed. It examines carefully some of the most troublesome texts in the Old Testament and it does so in stages, as she explains:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'First, we will consider instances where violence is \u003cem\u003ede\u003c\/em\u003escribed, not \u003cem\u003epre\u003c\/em\u003escribed\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eNext we will look at places – mainly the psalms – where violence is implored: where the psalmist prays for vengeance. Third, we will consider the issue of violence against animals, particularly the flood story and the system of animal sacrifice. Fourth, we will look at the use of violence as divine judgement. And fifth, we will look at the knottiest problem of all: the texts where God appears to command people to be violent to one another. At the end of most of the chapters in this section I offer some more practical suggestions. How should we handle these texts in our churches – in our pulpits, our home groups, our Sunday schools? And then, in the final chapter, we will ‘zoom back out’ and take a look at the big picture of the bible.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is nothing particularly novel about any of this, but that is not the point. Her message needs to be heard in a context of widespread fear of religiously inspired violence. This small book and her new Centre make an excellent contribution to greater understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Robin Gill\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnabaptism Today Autumn 2019. Review by Alexandra Ellish\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany people from both within and outside of church communities are confused and uncomfortable with accounts of violence in the Scriptures, and the all too frequent appeal to biblical sources to justify modern-day warfare, military action and the ownership of weapons. In this helpful and accessible book, Helen Paynter seeks to address some of the questions and issues raised by texts containing violence in the Old Testament and considers how we might interpret and understand them today. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into two sections. Part One sets out some essential foundations – reading the Bible as God’s word; defining and understanding violence within the ancient world; and some possible tools for interpretation. The second part of the book considers five types of violence, ranging with increasing complexity from: texts with descriptive versus prescriptive accounts of violence; texts imploring the use of violence; the sacrificial system and a consideration of the flood; violence as used in accounts of divine judgement; and finally texts in which God seems to be commanding violence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen reading violence contained in the psalms, the author notes the importance of paying attention to the psalmist’s use of language – particularly allegory and metaphor – to argue for a deeper reading of the texts. While there are psalms calling for God to punish enemies, this desire is usually held in tension with an acknowledgement of ultimate trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Paynter suggests that psalms which implore God to use violence to exact vengeance on enemies or oppressors have cathartic value in the context of communal worship – that these psalms remind us that we can bring all of our experiences and humanity to God in worship. Paynter advocates using the imprecatory psalms in worship today by depersonalising the ‘enemies’ of God and people to include issues around ecological catastrophe, serious and debilitating illness, domestic violence and all things which result in death. As the church frequently draws on the psalms of joy and thanksgiving for times of celebration and praise, this encouragement takes seriously the possibility of expressing painful, difficult and angry feelings that we have, in the context of a community of faith which trusts that God is in charge and loves his people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fourth chapter considers violence in divine judgement as a reminder of the nature of God as a just judge who is our friend and ‘brother’ but is also ‘unbearable’ in his holiness. Paynter discusses the positive aspects of the law of \u003cem\u003etalion\u003c\/em\u003e which, she argues, Jesus extends rather than repudiates. The penultimate chapter is devoted to texts where violence is explicitly commanded by God. This chapter covers the most difficult passages, where Paynter untangles the complexity of defining the word \u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e. This word is often translated as ‘utterly destroy’ or ‘devote to complete destruction’ but its meaning is somewhat veiled. Paynter suggests that \u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e ‘does not always involve killing or destroying’ but that ‘\u003cem\u003eḥerem\u003c\/em\u003e sometimes involves killing’ (p. 128). She states that she cannot offer a definitive answer to the questions surrounding conquest and apparent mass killing, but that the word \u003cem\u003eḥerem \u003c\/em\u003eis used for rhetorical and hyperbolic purposes to portray events in a particular way in the ancient world. Paynter’s honesty and humility in the recognition that her offering might be only partially satisfactory and her desire to continue to ‘nibble’ (p. 153) at the issue alongside others is immensely refreshing and rare! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the final chapter, Paynter considers the arc of the biblical narrative and argues that the vision of God demonstrated throughout the Scriptures is for \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e for all of creation. While I was pleased to see the concept of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e included in the book, I thought that more could have been made of this subject and how we might understand \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e in relation to violence in the Old Testament. Similarly, in an early chapter the centrality of the life and person of Jesus as a lens for interpretation is briefly mentioned but not elaborated. Since I come to the topic of violence with Anabaptist convictions, perhaps it is no surprise that I would have enjoyed a fuller consideration of these subjects earlier in the book, instead of waiting until the final chapter for a somewhat limited exploration of the concept of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter assumes that the value of the image of the eating of the forbidden fruit in the garden of Eden and the subsequent ‘fall’ is to explain the entry of death, competition and violence into the world. This understanding all too easily reduces Jesus to nothing more than a rescuer come to reverse the fall. I am not sure how helpful this is. \u003cem\u003eShalom\u003c\/em\u003e is the narrative arc of our Scriptures; Jesus who is the Christ is\/was, in my view, always going to be the incarnation of God on earth as a pattern for humanity. This impacts how we understand the crucifixion of Jesus, and I would have been interested to read more from Paynter on this issue. Particularly for our western Protestant tradition, which has largely abandoned other atonement theories to focus on the (arguably violent) theory of penal substitution, are there more appropriate ways of exploring and articulating the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ which fulfil rather than undermine a \u003cem\u003eshalom \u003c\/em\u003enarrative?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter is categorical in her rejection of the appropriation of violence from the Old Testament texts for today, and also touches very briefly on the inappropriate conflation of the historic nation of Israel and the modern state. More on this issue would have been instructive, particularly as many pro-Israel churches support the government and its policies of occupation in Palestine based on their understanding of texts from the Old Testament.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found Paynter’s writing style clear and engaging. She uses interesting and relevant examples to illustrate the issues she is dealing with, often drawing on contemporary stories. It is clear that Paynter is passionate about the importance of the Old Testament for personal and corporate faith today, and she argues persuasively for and offers numerous practical suggestions for wrestling with the Scriptures communally and individually. Paynter also suggests a wide range of other books for the reader to delve more deeply into the issues she has raised. I look forward to further publications from Paynter as she continues to wrestle with the Bible, in search of fresh insight and understanding to inform our discipleship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alexandra Ellish, London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Ministers Journal. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is timely, courageous and good. I therefore strongly recommend it to you and your church members. Revd Dr Helen Paynter of Bristol Baptist College has tackled one of the hot issues of the moment, the violence in the Old Testament (OT). It’s unlikely that you have not been asked about this by someone within or outside your congregation; if not, you’ll get the question soon: ‘How can a loving God condone and even order so much violence?’ Paynter helps you to give a Bible-based answer. She does not follow the common escape routes of either denying that this is what the OT really says or ascribing the violence to human authors who had not quite understood God. Instead she listens attentively to what the OT really says.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is in two parts, the first of which is a general introduction to the Bible and how to read it well. Paynter explains that her approach will be biblical and Christocentric, and she defends the position of the OT within the Christian scriptures. As a potted hermeneutic this part of the book has a more general value. For example, readers learn about the various genres in the Bible and about the distinction between description and endorsement. Here we also find a useful chapter on what violence is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the second part Paynter tackles the OT in concentric circles, beginning with the relatively simple texts in which violence is merely described. This is followed by texts in which violence is deplored, psalms which call upon God to use violence, texts about violence against animals and texts in which the use of violence is part of a divine judgement. Throughout her discussions are careful and helpful. Paynter’s response to the usual argument that the Canaanites deserved to be punished for their wickedness was a surprise to me; if you want to know what it is, buy and read the book! The final chapter, intended as a positive counterpart to the preceding misery, deals with God’s plan of \u003cem\u003eshalom\u003c\/em\u003e for his good creation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout Paynter’s tone is humble. She is honest about her own struggles and about points where she is uncertain. She refers to the book of Joshua as something that ‘feels alien and disturbing’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the most part, the book is easy to read; at times it is almost basic, which means that it is largely right for many church members. At the end of the chapters there are summaries and the notes are tucked away as end-notes. Some may find it uncomfortable that Paynter describes the flood as a myth (94-95), but that should not distract anybody.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo it is a perfect book? No, because it contains some typos and there is no index of texts. Some elements of the discussion might still be complicated for ‘lay people’. I would also have liked to read a bit more about the character of God. But these minor quibbles are just that: minor quibbles. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, issue 20, Autumn 2019. Review by Tom Wharin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the third book I’ve read on the subject of violence in the Bible in the last couple of years and it is also the most helpful. \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence yesterday, God of Love Today? \u003c\/em\u003eHas a clear and helpful structure even if the title is a bit of a mouthful. Helen Paynter starts by laying out her unapologetically Christocentric hermeneutic (to which I also subscribe). She then works through the biblical texts containing violence, from the ones she regards as least troubling (violence implored by the writer) to the ones she considers most troubling (violence commanded by God).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book does contain plenty of literary and historical-critical arguments which won’t appeal to a wide popular audience but Helen Paynter is very readable. Theological concepts are well explained with reference to everyday events, familiar news and historical stories. In addition to her marshalling her own thoughts well, Helen Paynter draws on and explains some of the best arguments in John H. Walton \u0026amp; J. Harvey Walton’s and Greg Boyd’s books (among others) in a way that makes them more accessible to readers like me than the originals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an apologia for violence in the Bible to twenty-first century western culture, the book as a whole feels like a pretty solid bridge two-thirds of the way across a cultural canyon. The reader is left with more construction to do on either cliff or both, and the author honestly acknowledges this as our work and hers in the introduction and conclusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI will definitely be recommending this book to anyone from sixth form up who is serious about engaging with God’s word on this subject. The structure will make it easy to dip back into for sermon references and it will serve very well as an introduction to this area of apologetics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Tom Wharin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 16 August, 2019. Summer paperback roundup by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eGod of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\u003c\/em\u003e the author Helen Paynter has tried to tackle one of the most difficult questions of biblical theology. Why is it that the God of the Old Testament seems to sanction war and what we might today call ethnic cleansing, while the God of the New Testament seems to be all about love? This simple stereotyping of the argument is well dealt with, giving us many ideas to reflect on. She does not come to easy answers, but you will feel considerably better informed. This is a book to read a couple of times and perhaps to share with a reading group to think through the many issues that it raises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by David Ball, GOLD Project, July 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis short book deals with one of the thorniest subjects for Christians who believe that God is love and at the same time believe that the Christian Scriptures in their totality are God’s word to us. Helen Paynter does not shy away from any of the challenges that passages of violence in the Scriptures, particularly the Old Testament, bring to a theology of God’s love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart one introduces us to some key skills for interpreting the Old Testament. God’s goodness and the ultimate revelation of this in Jesus Christ sets the theological foundation by which we are to interpret the Scriptures. From this starting point, we are ably guided through what we do and what we don’t mean when we speak of the Bible as God’s Word to us. Here the indispensable place of the Old Testament for our Christian faith is emphasised. If we need a clear theological foundation to interpret the Bible responsibly, we also need a clear understanding of the issue we are dealing with. For this we are led through a careful discussion of the complexity of violence and how it manifests itself in society. This prepares us to look at the nature of the Old Testament and especially the challenge to understand the worldview of its writers and audience which is so often far removed from our own. Reading each passage of the Old Testament in the context of the big story of Scripture, understanding the type of literature that we are reading and wrestling with the meaning of the text are all key skills to hearing the message better. Another important reminder is to let different and apparently contradictory narratives or themes contribute to the big picture of how Scripture conveys a multi-layered voice on key issues such as human kingship. All of these skills prepare us to address the particular issue of violence and the Bible in more depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart two does precisely this. Here we engage with the texts of violence under five (increasingly problematic) headings: Violence described, Violence implored, Violence against animals, Violence as divine judgement, Violence commanded. In each of these chapters, a clear attempt is made to compare and contrast the biblical context with our own and to draw out the significance of texts for our own day. We are carefully guided through the different types of violence each of which demand a different response. For example, describing violence in both the Old Testament and our own day does not necessarily endorse it. On the contrary, it often gives a voice to victims who would otherwise be denied justice and a hearing. Imploring violence is better than actual violence and is not necessarily endorsed by the text either. As we are led into the more problematic aspects of violence in the Old Testament, we are necessarily introduced to more technical aspects of biblical interpretation. Nevertheless, these are explained clearly. While not everyone will agree with some of the readings of the Old Testament, what becomes clear is that it is possible to grapple with even the most difficult Old Testament texts and not lose our integrity as those who believe in a just and loving God revealed in the totality of our Scriptures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final chapter seeks to bring a resolution and explain that the trajectory of the biblical narrative is towards the biblical idea of shalom. Normally translated ‘peace’ the ‘core meaning relates to completeness or intactness and the range of meanings includes prosperity, welfare, good relationships, deliverance and health’ (p.157) It is a vision of this shalom that drives the narrative of the Bible forward from its beginning in Genesis to its conclusion in the New Testament book of Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skill of interpreting the Bible responsibly in today’s world is one that anyone can learn. It is not easy and involves a struggle, but, above all, this is the significance of this book. For, while it addresses the particularly thorny issue of violence, it does far more than this. It gives us a practical model of how to wrestle with difficult issues in the Bible and society, seeking to listen to each text within the big framework of Scripture and to understand how this relates to our own context. Through this process, we can learn the skills of hearing God’s voice for today even in the difficult parts of the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Ball, GOLD Project\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform July\/August 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a particularly apposite book for our current political situation. John Lennon wrote the song ‘Imagine’, longing for a peaceful world, assuming that religion is one of the main causes of conflict. It would be lovely to be able to say that Christian scriptures do not advocate violence, or that only the Old Testament shows God as angry and violent. The temptation is to avoid difficult and violent Bible passages. Yet, the Old Testament is an essential part of the Christian scriptures. Helen Paynter shows that it is too simplistic to separate the Old Testament from the New.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter acknowledges that violence is apparently directed and endorsed by God in Old Testament texts. In an intellectually rigorous and accessible way, Paynter wrestles with each text to show that in many cases, the violence may become more understandable, and in some cases may be fully explained. She shows that each story needs to be carefully read in the context of ancient Hebrew language and culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, Paynter compares the battle of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17 – in which David beheads Goliath – with Adam and Eve’s temptation by the serpent (Genesis 3). In both stories, there is a battle that will determine who has dominion and an evil force mocks God’s favoured. In the latter story, God curses the serpent and says that he will bruise the serpent’s head. God will have victory in the end. Though David – God’s chosen king, descended of Eve – is mocked by the giant who defies God, he is victorious. The pattern points to a greater king to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter warns of the need to be careful how these passages are taught to children, and how they are used in preaching. This is an exceedingly helpful book for anyone who wants to honestly teach and preach the scriptures for contemporary society, affirming God’s plan for peace in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Ball, Minister of the Free Church, St Ives, and Fenstanton URC, Cambridgeshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices Issue 30,September 2019. Review by Ray Vincent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen is Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol Baptist College and the new Editor of BRF’s \u003cem\u003eGuidelines \u003c\/em\u003eBible reading notes. She is well placed to write this very accessible book. She deals with the problem in a very straightforward, systematic way, beginning with the less difficult and moving on to the most difficult ones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst she considers the places in the Bible where violence is simply described as part of the story. Then she moves on to where suffering people pray for vengeance on their oppressors – a natural human reaction. Next, violence against animals, pointing out the huge cultural difference between the Bible’s world and ours. Then she tackles violence as divine judgement, and finally the most difficult problem, the places where God seems actually to command acts of violence against innocent people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter approaches the problem humbly, freely acknowledging that she does not have the answers but is still wrestling with the questions. However, it seems to me that her perception of the violence as a ‘problem’ comes from her relatively conservative view of the Bible as the Word of God. While acknowledging the humanity of the Bible and reading it in the light of critical scholarship, she seems nevertheless to be trying to justify everything it says, and hesitates to say that parts of it may be simply mistaken.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI suspect that the way in which most of us perceive the Bible means that we do not see the violence in it as a ‘problem’ in this kind of way. At the same time, this book is clear, honest and admirably arranged. It is well worth using as a basis for discussion in churches. Some Progressive Christian Network groups too might find it useful. It is informative, reminding us of parts of the Bible we sometimes neglect, and it is thought-provoking and sometimes challenging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Ray Vincent\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by David Mitchell, Pastor, Woodlands Church, Bristol. May 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen has written a book on one of the most difficult questions Christians face. In it she has managed to be both accessible, compassionate and scholarly as she navigates the tension between a high view of scripture and yet its depiction of God’s apparent actions and decrees in ways which offend our most basic instincts of what is good and loving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe begins with a really helpful guide to reading the bible well whatever (and wherever) the biblical text is addressing, which I would commend to any serious reader of the bible, especially those coming to it fresh. She goes on to deal specifically with the issues of violence, not just to people; animals are included. She gives really helpful cultural context to hard passages without ducking some of the difficulties and ambiguities that remain even for her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShe invites us foundationally to see Jesus as God’s last word on the issue of violence and to read the Old Testament not just as a foundation for the revelation of Jesus but as sacred texts which He provides the ultimate guide to understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Andy Goodliff, May 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter is a Baptist minister and Old Testament scholar based at Bristol Baptist College. This is her second book. Her first, a version of her PhD, was Reduced Laughter, looking at how to read the books of 1 \u0026amp; 2 Kings. This second book, written for a broad audience, engages with the thorn of subjects violence in the Old Testament. It arrives at the same time as the work of the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bristol-baptist.ac.uk\/study-centres\/csbv\/\"\u003eCentre for the Study of the Bible and Violence\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(CSBV) begins, of which Paynter is the Director. The book comes in two parts. The first establishes some 'foundations' — reading the Bible as God's word, how to read the Bible well and what is meant or encompassed by the word 'violence.' The chapter in reading the Bible well is especially helpful in offering some important lessons. The second half of the book seeks through 5 chapters to engage with the most serious of questions around the Old Testament and violence. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese 5 chapters make a series of important points. When violence is described, it is not always (often?) being endorsed. An example is given in the story of Samson. Paynter provides a different way of reading the book of Judges that pays attention to how the book is narrated. When violence is implored, as is the case of a good number of Psalms, there is a cry for justice and handing over of that desire for vengeance to God. Violence against animals is not as wanton as might be supposed. Paynter offers some helpful readings of the story of the flood in Genesis 6-9 and the place of sacrifices within Israel's worship. The fourth and fifth chapters explore violence as divine judgement and violence as commanded (e.g. the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eherem\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003epassages in Joshua). These questions are more difficult to address, and Paynter acknowledges, that this is not her last word on them, but almost a first foray into these questions, in conversation with wider scholarship. She takes us carefully through the importance of justice, the meaning of the law of talion (eye for an eye), a reading of the death of Uzzah (2 Sam 6) and in the latter chapter the meaning of the word\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eherem\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA final chapter suggests that God's great plan in the Old Testament is shalom (peace) and we read it with trajectory in mind. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an excellent book, which wears its scholarship lightly. Paynter has a great way of explaining and the book is an easy read, although exploring difficult questions. The book seeks as its subtitle suggests to 'wrestle honestly' with the violence found in the Old Testament. It doesn't have, and doesn't promise, a magic solution, but does show that a surface level reading will miss or overlook at more subtle ways the Bible describes and responds to violence. I look forward to future explorations that I'm sure will be forthcoming from Paynter and the CSBV that will continue to reach a broad audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Andy Goodliff. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andygoodliff.typepad.com\/my_weblog\/2019\/05\/helen-paynter-god-of-violence-yesterday-god-of-love-today-brf-2019.html\" title=\"Andy Goodliff on God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?\"\u003eClick \u003c\/a\u003ehere for blog.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Peter King, Diocese of Chichester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver the past few years I have become increasingly troubled by the violence in the Bible. Although this is a subject we don’t often talk about in our churches, I know from a number of informal conversations that many churchgoers (and others) have questions they would like to explore on these issues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished to coincide with June’s inaugural events of Bristol College’s Centre for the Study of Bible \u0026amp; Violence, Helen Paynter’s new book offers a rigorous yet accessible exploration of Old Testament violence ideal for individuals or groups wishing to engage with these troubling texts and the issues they raise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is divided into two parts. The first part offers valuable groundwork on the nature of the Bible and the nature of violence, and concludes with some very helpful suggestions on 'Reading the Bible well'. It is good to be reminded that the reason that texts of violence disturb us is because of our core belief that God is good. It is important, too, to be made aware that just because the Bible describes violence this does not necessarily mean that it commends it. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second part identifies a range of types of violent text, and discusses these in ascending order of importance from what is termed 'Violence described' through 'Violence implored' and 'Violence against animals' (sacrifice) to 'Violence as divine judgement and what is the standout case for most people Violence commanded. I found this a very helpful way of classifying the different examples of violence in the OT. Each chapter concludes with some thoughts on how the type of texts under discussion might be read and used in churches today. Here I was particularly struck by what the author sees as the pastoral implications of ignoring the texts of 'Violence described'. By ignoring these stories of interpersonal and sexual violence we risk silencing those for whom they are a reality in their lives today. Yes, indeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book concludes with a chapter entitled 'Shalom: God’s great plan', which puts the violent texts in the context of what is arguably an even more significant OT theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author herself acknowledges at the end of the chapter on 'Violence commanded' that 'there might be more to say' on these most troubling of all the texts of violence. Not everyone will agree with the suggested interpretation, but I hope that all will agree on the important suggestions for reading them 'with ethical integrity' both in our churches and beyond. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in the questions it explores. If you are new to the subject, it offers a comprehensive introduction and the reassurance that you are being guided by a capable and safe pair of hands as you begin to engage with challenging and important issues. If, like me, you are familiar with some of the literature on the subject, reading it will surely bring new insights and ideas. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePeter King trained at Bristol Baptist College and now works for the Anglican Diocese of Chichester in adult theological education.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWord \u0026amp; Worship, journal of the New Zealand Lay Preachers Association, Winter 2019 (June). Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelen Paynter addresses the question of biblical violence honestly and without proposing any final answer. She is clear that what is in the scriptures should be neither hidden nor denied and that the Old Testament God of judgement should not be contrasted with the New Testament God of grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaynter recognises that while violence may be deliberately aggressive it may also find expression through oppressive social structures. Colonisation and cultural devaluation are examples of this. Violence may also be associated with polarising rhetoric. We need think only of the ‘war on terror’ against nations defined as evil. We should not think that violence may be consigned to savage antiquity from which we have moved on. It is still possible to think that with bombs, rather than swords, we are doing God’s will.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we consider episodes of violence in the Bible, Paynter invites readers to reflect on the narrators’ purposes. For example, in Judges 19 we find the gang rape and murder of a concubine. This is deeply shocking, but also draws attention to the appalling consequences for a defenceless woman in a society without law or leadership. Although part of the biblical text, such stories are not usually read in public worship, yet the airing of such stories may allow women who have experienced sexual violence to feel heard and present opportunities for pastoral care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBiblical writers recognise the reality of emotions such as anger and desire for revenge arising within the human heart. But rather than being encouraged to give reign to free expression of such emotions we are invited to leave vengeance to God who is just and merciful. The concept of ‘an eye for an eye’ should, Paynter believes, be understood as defining the limitation of personal vengeance, a limitation which Jesus extends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModern sensitivities may cause us to shudder at the conquest of Canaan recorded in the book of Joshua where slaughter seems to be commanded by God. Rather than a literal record of history Paynter suggests the story may be understood as a type of biblical literature dealing with God bringing order out of chaos and affirming the identity of Israel as God’s covenant people. This does not mean, however, that it can be used to support modern Israel’s actions towards Palestine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Hebrew mind God was awesome in holiness with power to create and to destroy. The stories of creation are placed at the beginning of the Old Testament as affirmation of God’s perfect design and intention for universal shalom\/ wholeness. History is played out in a broken and often violent world, but the law and the prophets point to God’s creative intention for healing and wholeness and this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not for us to edit from the Bible what offends us. We must learn to read with understanding. Helen Paynter writes clearly and makes a major contribution to informed reading so that we may hear and interpret God’s word for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Meredith was ordained in the Methodist Church of New Zealand and has completed post-graduate study at Spurgeon’s College, London. John has served in pastoral roles in New Zealand and Western Australia. He is currently editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship, the publication of the NZ Lay Preachers Association and reviews books on theological and biblical themes.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":6841102467263,"title":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made","handle":"unveiled","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/garden-song-exploring-the-psalms-through-paintings-reflections-and-prayers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/garden_song.png?v=1721593535\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2022-05-23T16:55:21+01:00","created_at":"2021-07-28T21:08:35+01:00","vendor":"Clare Hayns","type":"Paperback","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","oct-21","Spirituality","Women"],"price":1499,"price_min":1499,"price_max":1499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":40313768018111,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390720","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":29500341420223,"product_id":6841102467263,"position":1,"created_at":"2021-07-28T21:08:35+01:00","updated_at":"2022-05-23T16:57:04+01:00","alt":null,"width":1916,"height":1800,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","variant_ids":[40313768018111]},"available":true,"name":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":1499,"weight":500,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390720","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":21875019382975,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"width":1916,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":21875019382975,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"width":1916,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424"},"aspect_ratio":1.064,"height":1800,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390720.jpg?v=1653321424","width":1916}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/garden-song-exploring-the-psalms-through-paintings-reflections-and-prayers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/garden_song.png?v=1721593535\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made
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Some women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we...
{"id":7367030177983,"title":"At Home and Out and About","handle":"at-home-and-out-and-about","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Across a year’s worth of weekly reflections, Gordon Giles focuses on objects, scenes, activities and places, drawing out spiritual insights to help us reflect on what we have learned as we venture out again after months of restriction, absence and anxiety. From Easter, through the changing seasons to the following Easter, we are led to consider: What is it like spiritually to stop wearing masks? What does a beach say to us after coronavirus? How has Zoom affected us during lockdown and how do we now relate to technology as a medium of fellowship? Where is Christ amid our restrictions and our releases?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e• Readers of Lent and Advent books who have enjoyed the previous two in this series\u003cbr\u003e• Anyone who wants to reflect on the world in which they live in the light of recent events\u003cbr\u003e• Those who enjoy and are concerned for the natural world\u003cbr\u003e• Church groups reading together or privately\u003cbr\u003e• Churches looking for material related to the seasons of the year or the church calendar\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/GordonGiles1_480x480.jpg?v=1676494801\" width=\"131\" height=\"233\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books and the editor of BRF’s New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry September 2023. Review by Betty Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book provided two surprises. The first was to discover that the pandemic had affected 52 areas of our lives, from masks to Zoom, from furlough to haircuts; and secondly that these meditations were to last for a whole year, from Easter to Easter. I decided to choose a special moment in the week – maybe a Sunday afternoon – to delve into the next topic. You may think that the pandemic is best allowed to rest, but Giles steers us sensitively through, encouraging us ‘to reflect on what has changed and to engage with what has not’. We are to go out and about with a God who never changes and whose love is ever constant. Each meditation is biblically inspired and supported by scientific and statistical knowledge. All conclude with a prayer. Although I would recommend individual reading, there are questions for group discussion. We have so much to learn from our Covid experiences. This book motivates us to view those years in a fresh light as we journey onward in ‘faith, hope and love.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Betty Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2022-10-10T15:03:23+01:00","created_at":"2022-10-10T15:03:22+01:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","Pastoral care","Prayer","seasonal","Spirituality"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":41997437501631,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391154","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":33430822748351,"product_id":7367030177983,"position":1,"created_at":"2022-10-10T15:03:22+01:00","updated_at":"2022-10-10T15:03:24+01:00","alt":null,"width":1535,"height":2339,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604","variant_ids":[41997437501631]},"available":true,"name":"At Home and Out and About - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":999,"weight":219,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391154","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":26021152489663,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":26021152489663,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/AtHomeandOutandAbout.jpg?v=1665410604","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Across a year’s worth of weekly reflections, Gordon Giles focuses on objects, scenes, activities and places, drawing out spiritual insights to help us reflect on what we have learned as we venture out again after months of restriction, absence and anxiety. From Easter, through the changing seasons to the following Easter, we are led to consider: What is it like spiritually to stop wearing masks? What does a beach say to us after coronavirus? How has Zoom affected us during lockdown and how do we now relate to technology as a medium of fellowship? Where is Christ amid our restrictions and our releases?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e• Readers of Lent and Advent books who have enjoyed the previous two in this series\u003cbr\u003e• Anyone who wants to reflect on the world in which they live in the light of recent events\u003cbr\u003e• Those who enjoy and are concerned for the natural world\u003cbr\u003e• Church groups reading together or privately\u003cbr\u003e• Churches looking for material related to the seasons of the year or the church calendar\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/GordonGiles1_480x480.jpg?v=1676494801\" width=\"131\" height=\"233\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books and the editor of BRF’s New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry September 2023. Review by Betty Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book provided two surprises. The first was to discover that the pandemic had affected 52 areas of our lives, from masks to Zoom, from furlough to haircuts; and secondly that these meditations were to last for a whole year, from Easter to Easter. I decided to choose a special moment in the week – maybe a Sunday afternoon – to delve into the next topic. You may think that the pandemic is best allowed to rest, but Giles steers us sensitively through, encouraging us ‘to reflect on what has changed and to engage with what has not’. We are to go out and about with a God who never changes and whose love is ever constant. Each meditation is biblically inspired and supported by scientific and statistical knowledge. All conclude with a prayer. Although I would recommend individual reading, there are questions for group discussion. We have so much to learn from our Covid experiences. This book motivates us to view those years in a fresh light as we journey onward in ‘faith, hope and love.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Betty Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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At Home and Out and About
£9.99
Across a year’s worth of weekly reflections, Gordon Giles focuses on objects, scenes, activities and places, drawing out spiritual insights...
{"id":7602754289855,"title":"Holy Habits: Bible Reflections Special Offer","handle":"holy-habits-bible-reflections-special-offer","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese Bible reading notes have been developed to help churches and individuals explore the Holy Habits through prayerful engagement with the Bible and live them out in whole-life, missional discipleship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHoly Habits is an adventure in Christian discipleship. Inspired by Luke’s model of church found in Acts 2:42–47, it identifies ten habits and encourages the development of a way of life formed by them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe habits are: Biblical Teaching, Fellowship, Breaking Bread, Prayer, Sharing Resources, Serving, Eating Together, Gladness and Generosity, Worship, and Making More Disciples.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2023-12-04T10:08:08+00:00","created_at":"2023-12-04T10:08:08+00:00","vendor":"Holy Habits","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Holy Habits Bible Reflections","Holy Habits packs"],"price":3000,"price_min":3000,"price_max":3000,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":42655898435775,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"HHREFL","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Holy Habits: Bible Reflections Special Offer","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":3000,"weight":886,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"HHREFL","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/x10BiblicalReflectionsfor_30.00_InstagramPost.png?v=1701687384"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/x10BiblicalReflectionsfor_30.00_InstagramPost.png?v=1701687384","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":27866644709567,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/x10BiblicalReflectionsfor_30.00_InstagramPost.png?v=1701687384"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/x10BiblicalReflectionsfor_30.00_InstagramPost.png?v=1701687384","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese Bible reading notes have been developed to help churches and individuals explore the Holy Habits through prayerful engagement with the Bible and live them out in whole-life, missional discipleship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHoly Habits is an adventure in Christian discipleship. Inspired by Luke’s model of church found in Acts 2:42–47, it identifies ten habits and encourages the development of a way of life formed by them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe habits are: Biblical Teaching, Fellowship, Breaking Bread, Prayer, Sharing Resources, Serving, Eating Together, Gladness and Generosity, Worship, and Making More Disciples.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":7929577734335,"title":"Easter Inside Out: The story as if you were there","handle":"easter-inside-out-the-story-as-if-you-were-there","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStep into the Easter story… Acclaimed storyteller David Kitchen reimagines the Easter narrative through a varied cast of characters, from Mary Magdalene to Caiaphas. If you want to understand who might have been where and doing what as the Easter story unfolds, this book gives you answers. It also lets you sense what it could have been like to be one of those involved in the twists and turns of one of the most extraordinary stories in the whole of history.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"row avoid-break\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" id=\"productCardContributors\" class=\"card\" date-options=\"[object Object]\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card-body\"\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"row\"\u003e\n\u003cdd class=\"col-sm-10\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Kitchen is an award-winning writer, broadcaster, teacher and storyteller who has been making the Bible come alive for longer than he cares to remember. In Bible in Ten he combines his down-to-earth writing skills with almost 50 years’ experience in church leadership and worship. His hobbies include music, poetry and playing crawling-up-stairs games with his grandson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen is a genius! He has a knack for helping us see old stories with new eyes. Dave’s great insight is that he knows that there is a massive difference between being outside a story and inside one. His talent is to present to us the old and familiar stories of the Bible in a way that enables us to enter them in our imaginations. As we get inside the story, we notice things we never noticed before; the stories become richer, deeper and more meaningful. This book is a great resource for Christians and churches to use during Lent. It is also accessible for readers with no prior knowledge or experience in reading the Bible. The Easter story has been one of the foundational stories of western civilisation, here we have a resource that will help people to enter that story, to feel its significance and meaning, and, even more excitingly, to explore what their own response to that story might be!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Stephen March, pioneer priest in Leicester Diocese\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘The greatest story ever told with an invitation to not just read it – but step into it. Get ready for an incredible journey.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eRob Parsons, founder of Care for the Family\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘In this very helpful book, David Kitchen brings us imaginatively into the events of Holy Week and Easter through a wide variety of witnesses. There is new insight on every page. Both individual readers and those who lead worship or study groups will find much to inspire.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Donald P. Ker, former secretary and president of the Methodist Church in Ireland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen has done it again. Having brought characters from scripture to life in Bible in Ten, Easter Inside Out does the same for the most significant week in history. If we ever forgot that Easter was about real people at a real time in a real country, Easter Inside Out reminds us in a lively, readable, creative and captivating way.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Dr Jennifer A. Hurd, chair of Wales Synod Cymru\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen has been getting inside the hearts and minds of the first followers of Jesus and those he encountered for more than 50 years, enlightening and inspiring so many people through in the process. Now he has done it again with Easter Inside Out in which we are invited to journey with Jesus and those who knew him from Palm Sunday to Good Friday and then to Easter and beyond. Suitable for personal reflection and devotion, it will also make an excellent small group resource during Lent or even as a one-off book group read, with stimulating questions provided for both.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd David Mullins, retired Methodist minister\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Holy Week is the most significant week in the Christian faith that has literally trans- formed the course of human history. Dave Kitchen approaches the gospel stories of this crucial week with creativity and imagination. In a series of vignettes, he brings the story to life and locates the overarching narrative on the hustling and bustling streets of Jerusalem. He does so in a way that is always accessible and engaging. It is my hope that Easter Inside Out would enable anyone to think afresh about this story and the impact it can have on our lives.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Andrew Charlesworth, chair of Wales Synod Cymru\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Easter Inside Out does exactly what the tag line says: it’s a fascinating retelling of the Easter story as if you were there. David weaves together biblical and imagined characters to take the reader through the events of Easter week in their own words, bringing them to life as they deal with all the ups and downs of their being part of the days that changed the world. A detailed timeline helps the reader keep pace with the fast moving moments. David has given us a truly original version of the greatest story.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eRoger Aubrey, PhD, MTh, writer and international Bible teacher\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"row avoid-break\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" id=\"productCardSubjectsAndAudience\" class=\"card\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","published_at":"2024-08-06T10:56:42+01:00","created_at":"2024-08-06T10:56:42+01:00","vendor":"David Kitchen","type":"Paperback","tags":["2024","Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","Easter","For churches","For individuals","For schools","Gift","Lent","New Titles","seasonal","Upcoming titles"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":43664493445311,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393516","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":36619529846975,"product_id":7929577734335,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-08-06T10:51:10+01:00","updated_at":"2024-08-06T10:51:12+01:00","alt":null,"width":2102,"height":2102,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872","variant_ids":[43664493445311]},"available":true,"name":"Easter Inside Out: The story as if you were there - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":1299,"weight":325,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393516","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":29353868296383,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":2102,"width":2102,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":29353868296383,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":2102,"width":2102,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":2102,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/EasterInsideOut.jpg?v=1722937872","width":2102}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStep into the Easter story… Acclaimed storyteller David Kitchen reimagines the Easter narrative through a varied cast of characters, from Mary Magdalene to Caiaphas. If you want to understand who might have been where and doing what as the Easter story unfolds, this book gives you answers. It also lets you sense what it could have been like to be one of those involved in the twists and turns of one of the most extraordinary stories in the whole of history.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"row avoid-break\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" id=\"productCardContributors\" class=\"card\" date-options=\"[object Object]\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card-body\"\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"row\"\u003e\n\u003cdd class=\"col-sm-10\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Kitchen is an award-winning writer, broadcaster, teacher and storyteller who has been making the Bible come alive for longer than he cares to remember. In Bible in Ten he combines his down-to-earth writing skills with almost 50 years’ experience in church leadership and worship. His hobbies include music, poetry and playing crawling-up-stairs games with his grandson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen is a genius! He has a knack for helping us see old stories with new eyes. Dave’s great insight is that he knows that there is a massive difference between being outside a story and inside one. His talent is to present to us the old and familiar stories of the Bible in a way that enables us to enter them in our imaginations. As we get inside the story, we notice things we never noticed before; the stories become richer, deeper and more meaningful. This book is a great resource for Christians and churches to use during Lent. It is also accessible for readers with no prior knowledge or experience in reading the Bible. The Easter story has been one of the foundational stories of western civilisation, here we have a resource that will help people to enter that story, to feel its significance and meaning, and, even more excitingly, to explore what their own response to that story might be!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Stephen March, pioneer priest in Leicester Diocese\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘The greatest story ever told with an invitation to not just read it – but step into it. Get ready for an incredible journey.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eRob Parsons, founder of Care for the Family\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘In this very helpful book, David Kitchen brings us imaginatively into the events of Holy Week and Easter through a wide variety of witnesses. There is new insight on every page. Both individual readers and those who lead worship or study groups will find much to inspire.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Donald P. Ker, former secretary and president of the Methodist Church in Ireland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen has done it again. Having brought characters from scripture to life in Bible in Ten, Easter Inside Out does the same for the most significant week in history. If we ever forgot that Easter was about real people at a real time in a real country, Easter Inside Out reminds us in a lively, readable, creative and captivating way.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Dr Jennifer A. Hurd, chair of Wales Synod Cymru\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Dave Kitchen has been getting inside the hearts and minds of the first followers of Jesus and those he encountered for more than 50 years, enlightening and inspiring so many people through in the process. Now he has done it again with Easter Inside Out in which we are invited to journey with Jesus and those who knew him from Palm Sunday to Good Friday and then to Easter and beyond. Suitable for personal reflection and devotion, it will also make an excellent small group resource during Lent or even as a one-off book group read, with stimulating questions provided for both.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd David Mullins, retired Methodist minister\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Holy Week is the most significant week in the Christian faith that has literally trans- formed the course of human history. Dave Kitchen approaches the gospel stories of this crucial week with creativity and imagination. In a series of vignettes, he brings the story to life and locates the overarching narrative on the hustling and bustling streets of Jerusalem. He does so in a way that is always accessible and engaging. It is my hope that Easter Inside Out would enable anyone to think afresh about this story and the impact it can have on our lives.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe Revd Andrew Charlesworth, chair of Wales Synod Cymru\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Easter Inside Out does exactly what the tag line says: it’s a fascinating retelling of the Easter story as if you were there. David weaves together biblical and imagined characters to take the reader through the events of Easter week in their own words, bringing them to life as they deal with all the ups and downs of their being part of the days that changed the world. A detailed timeline helps the reader keep pace with the fast moving moments. David has given us a truly original version of the greatest story.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eRoger Aubrey, PhD, MTh, writer and international Bible teacher\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"row avoid-break\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" class=\"col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-v-5a160260=\"\" id=\"productCardSubjectsAndAudience\" class=\"card\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e"}
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Easter Inside Out: The story as if you were there
£12.99
Step into the Easter story… Acclaimed storyteller David Kitchen reimagines the Easter narrative through a varied cast of characters, from...