Practical Guidance for Loving Others Well Everyone needs help from time to time, especially in the midst of painful circumstances and difficult trials. In this short book, a highly respected biblical counselor and successful author offers practical guidance for all Christians—pastors and laypeople alike—who want to develop their "helping skills" when it comes to walking alongside hurting people. Written out of the conviction that friends are the best helpers, this accessible introduction to biblical counseling will equip believers to share their burdens with one another through gentle words of wisdom and kind acts of love. This book is written for those eager to see God use ordinary relationships and conversations between ordinary Christians to work extraordinary miracles in the lives of his people.

Since the days of the early church, Christians have wrestled with the relationship between law and gospel. If, as the apostle Paul says, salvation is by grace and the law cannot save, what relevance does the law have for Christians today? By revisiting the Marrow Controversy—a famous but largely forgotten eighteenth-century debate related to the proper relationship between God's grace and our works—Sinclair B. Ferguson sheds light on this central issue and why it still matters today. In doing so, he explains how our understanding of the relationship between law and gospel determines our approach to evangelism, our pursuit of sanctification, and even our understanding of God himself. Ferguson shows us that the antidote to the poison of legalism on the one hand and antinomianism on the other is one and the same: the life-giving gospel of Jesus Christ, in whom we are simultaneously justified by faith, freed for good works, and assured of salvation.

From Philosophy to Technology, Tracing the Origin of Identity Politics How did the world arrive at its current, disorienting state of identity politics, and how should the church respond? Historian Carl R. Trueman discusses how influences ranging from traditional institutions to technology and pornography moved modern culture toward an era of "expressive individualism." Investigating philosophies from the Romantics, Nietzsche, Marx, Wilde, Freud, and the New Left, he outlines the history of Western thought to the distinctly sexual direction of present-day identity politics and explains the modern implications of these ideas on religion, free speech, and personal identity. For fans of Trueman's The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, this audiobook offers a more concise presentation and application of some of the most critical topics of our day. Individuals and groups can work through the book together with the Strange New World Study Guide and Strange New World Video Study, sold separately.

Bestselling Author John Piper Examines End-Times Theology and Scripture's Command to Love the Second Coming of Christ Many people are curious about the second coming of Christ—what it will be like, when it will happen, and what signs will come first. In his latest book, Come, Lord Jesus, John Piper addresses all these issues, but stresses that those who love the second coming of Christ will receive a crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:6–8). Piper examines key biblical texts around the second coming while encouraging readers toward a Spirit-awakened affection for Jesus's return. He also explores important questions such as, Could Jesus come at any moment, or must certain events happen first?; What does it mean to "Watch, for you know neither the day nor the hour"?; and What should we be doing when he comes? With a special focus on the teachings of Jesus, Paul, and Peter, Come, Lord Jesus portrays not only the glory of the revealed Savior, but also the glorification of the resurrected saints. - Essential, Christ-Exalting Eschatology: Piper guides Christians to examine whether they long for the appearing of Christ, and what this event will mean for Christians, non-Christians, and for Christ himself - Careful Exegesis: Piper pays close and precise attention to the words of Scripture, especially with a view to showing how Jesus and Paul were of one mind about the second coming - Practical: The final 5 chapters are devoted to how Christians should live in this age between the first and second appearing of Christ - Written by Bestselling Author John Piper: Author of Don't Waste Your Life, Desiring God, and Providence

Carl Trueman Analyzes How Ancient Creeds and Confessions Protect and Promote Biblical Christianity in a Culture of Expressive Individualism Historic statements of faith—such as the Heidelberg Catechism, the Apostles' Creed, and the Westminster Confession of Faith—have helped the Christian church articulate and adhere to God's truth for centuries. However, many modern evangelicals reject these historic documents and the practices of catechesis, proclaiming their commitment to "no creed but the Bible." And yet, in today's rapidly changing culture, ancient liturgical tradition is not only biblical—it's essential. In Crisis of Confidence, Carl Trueman analyzes how creeds and confessions can help the Christian church navigate modern concerns, particularly around the fraught issue of identity. He contends that statements of faith promote humility, moral structure, and a godly view of personhood, helping believers maintain a strong foundation amid a culture in crisis. This is a revised edition of Trueman's The Creedal Imperative, now with a new section on the rise of expressive individualism. - Updated Edition of The Creedal Imperative: Includes fresh cultural insights on modern individualism - Written by Carl Trueman: Author of The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self (100,000+ copies sold) - Theological and Historical: Explains why creeds and confessions are necessary, how they have developed over time, and how they can function in the church of today and tomorrow - Ideal for Pastors, Professors, and Those Interested in Liturgical Tradition

8 ESV Prayer Journals, Featuring Artwork from Ruth Chou Simons, Help You Engage with Scripture and Pray with Purpose This 8-volume collection of ESV Prayer Journals, written by Erika Allen, helps you turn your quiet time into a meditation on God's Word. Beautiful and portable, each 30-day study guides you through a foundational Scripture topic--the gospel, faith, forgiveness, wisdom, evangelism, peace, hope, or humility--and creates space for writing and prayer. The themed journals each explore 6 key Bible passages over 6 weeks. Every weekly study includes: An overview of that week's passage 5 days of teaching and prayer prompts Clear definitions of biblical terms Lined pages for writing 10.5-point type Providing nearly a year's worth of teaching on vital topics, this 8-volume journaling set helps you engage with Scripture and pray with purpose. Set of 8 Prayer Journals: Covering faith, forgiveness, wisdom, evangelism, peace, hope, the gospel, and humility Interactive Bible Study: Each book includes 6 weeks of teaching, prayer, and journaling prompts Strengthen Spiritual Disciplines: Journals combine prayer and Bible study to connect with God and understand foundational Bible themes A Great Gift for Birthdays, Graduations, and More: Give individual journals or the entire set Popular Study for Women: More than 60,000 ESV Prayer Journals sold

*Worship Matters * - Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God / 24.49€ / Taschenbuch

Children and parents follow Punchinello as he trades his starsand dots for the truth that his creator loves him just the way heis. Max Lucado's classic story is now available in a specialpaperback gift edition.

Two Oppositional Figures in Church History Shed Light on Division in the Church Today Our current culture seems to be increasingly divided on countless issues, including those affecting the church. But for centuries, theological disagreements, political differences, and issues relating to church leadership have made it challenging for Christians to foster unity and love for one another. In this book, author Tim Cooper explores this polarization through the lives of two oppositional figures in church history: John Owen and Richard Baxter. Cooper highlights their individual stories while showing how their contrasting life experiences, personalities, and temperaments led to their inability to work together. After exploring these lessons from the past, readers will gain insights into their own relationships, ultimately learning how to love and live in harmony with their fellow believers despite their disagreements. - Timely: In today's deeply divided culture, this book offers past examples to help spur unity among believers today - Historical: Biographical examination of two Puritan writers from the 17th century: John Owen and Richard Baxter - Accessible: Short format and crisp writing style offer an engaging story with no background knowledge required

"May we never forget that without fighting there can be no holiness while we live, and no crown of glory when we die!" —J. C. Ryle "True Christianity is a fight," wrote J. C. Ryle in 1877. He argued that from the day of their conversion until the day they die, Christians are called to be soldiers for Christ in a war for their holiness. This inspiring call to action written more than 100 years ago continues to be a source of great encouragement and inspiration for believers today. In this addition to the Crossway Short Classics series, Ryle explains why the fight for holiness is one of absolute necessity for Christians. Identifying the three main enemies of every believer—the world, the flesh, and the devil—he emboldens them to "either fight or be lost" in their daily battle and offers biblical and historical examples of notable Christian "soldiers." Fighting for Holiness is a bold reminder for believers to daily put on the whole armor of God and train their eyes on Christ.

As an author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities, Joni Eareckson Tada has inspired people around the world with her story of faith in the midst of suffering. In this beautiful collection of hymns and devotions she acts as a "song leader," guiding readers through their own painful seasons with heartfelt praises to God. Songs of Suffering includes 25 hymns with accompanying devotions to spark hope in hardship. In this audiobook version, Eareckson Tada performs verses from each song. Opening with a special message from hymn writers Keith and Kristyn Getty, this book is a source of comfort for anyone who needs biblical encouragement, prompting readers to seek refuge in the Lord and rejoice in his goodness.

Pastor Dane Ortlund Explores Jesus's Heart to Reveal His Tender Love for Sinners and Suffers Christians know that God loves them, but can easily feel that he is perpetually disappointed and frustrated, maybe even close to giving up on them. As a result, they focus a lot—and rightly so—on what Jesus has done to appease God's wrath for sin. But how does Jesus Christ actually feel about his people amid all their sins and failures? This book draws us to Matthew 11, where Jesus describes himself as "gentle and lowly in heart," longing for his people to find rest in him. The gospel flows from God's deepest heart for his people, a heart of tender love for the sinful and suffering. These chapters take us into the depths of Christ's very heart for sinners, diving deep into Bible passages that speak of who Christ is and encouraging readers with the affections of Christ for his people. His longing heart for sinners comforts and sustains readers in their up-and-down lives. - Draws on Writings from the Puritans: Including Thomas Goodwin, Richard Sibbes, John Bunyan, John Owen, and others - Provides a Unique Perspective: Confronts readers' typical thoughts on God's heart - Scripture-Based: Explores passages throughout the whole Bible to get a full picture of God's heart for sinners

David Gibson Explores How Death, Viewed Biblically, Teaches Us How to Truly Live Keeping the end in mind shapes how we live our lives in the here and now. Living life backward means taking the one thing in our future that is certain—death—and letting that inform our journey before we get there. Looking to the book of Ecclesiastes for wisdom, Living Life Backward was written to shake up our expectations and priorities for what it means to live "the good life." Considering the reality of death helps us pay attention to our limitations as human beings and receive life as a wondrous gift from God—freeing us to live wisely, generously, and faithfully for God's glory and the good of his world. - Biblical: Walks through the book of Ecclesiastes chapter by chapter - Applicable: Teaches listeners to live wisely, freely, and generously in light of eternity - Hopeful: Counters a modern worldview that pretends we can fix, avoid, or control every facet of our lives - Practical: Includes discussion questions at the end of each chapter

Building and Sustaining a Thriving Leadership Culture Essential to every healthy church is a biblical model of leadership. In the New Testament, church leadership is built around a team of elders working together, each bringing his own unique skills and gifts to the cause of shepherding the flock God entrusted to them. However, in many churches today the principle of plurality in leadership is often misunderstood, mistakenly applied, or completely ignored. Dave Harvey encourages church leaders to prioritize plurality for the surprising ways that it helps churches to flourish. This audiobook not only builds a compelling case for churches to adopt and maintain biblical elder pluralities guided by solid leadership but also supplies practical tools to help elders work together for transformation. Download the free study guide.

Why Missions and Evangelism Are an Overflow of Delighting in God Evangelism and missions are parts of the Christian life often accompanied by fears, insecurities, and cultural pressures. In this addition to the Union series, Daniel Hames and Michael Reeves argue that an individual's relationship with God influences their evangelism and missions more than anything else. Scripture clearly shows that a believer's responsibility is to make God known in the world, but this cannot be done without first knowing and enjoying God. To illustrate how knowledge of God influences evangelism and missions, Hames and Reeves address biblical themes such as the glory of God, Christ's sacrifice, the fallenness of man, and the church's future hope. There is hope for those who find these topics intimidating—when believers focus on the glory of the lamb of God, the gospel will shine through them. - Ideal for Laypeople, Pastors, and Students: Specifically for those interested in theology and missions - Union Series: The final audiobook in the Union series which invites readers to experience deeper enjoyment of God - Concise Version Also Available: What Fuels the Mission of the Church? by Daniel Hames and Michael Reeves - Biblically Grounded: Teaches how biblical themes such as the glory of God, Christ's sacrifice, the fallenness of man, and the church's future hope inform evangelism and missions

Based on John Owen's Classic Text Communion with God, This Helpful Resource Answers the Question, "What Does It Mean to Be Friends with Jesus?" In John 15, Jesus says, "I have called you friends." But what does it mean to be friends with Jesus? In the early 1650s, theologian John Owen attempted to answer this question through a series of sermons, eventually compiled as Communion with God. The book is full of truths about having fellowship with God, but Owen's work is often a struggle for modern readers to understand. In Friendship with God, pastor Mike McKinley takes a key idea or insight from Communion with God and clarifies it for readers in each chapter, giving them practical guidance for how to develop fellowship with God—such as obeying the Father's commands, acknowledgment of sin, and prayer. Perfect for new Christians or for those without a church background, this accessible resource offers an introduction to the God who "wants you to know him and be known by him." - Accessible: Written for a broad contemporary audience, perfect for new Christians or for those without a church background - Based on John Owen's Classic Text Communion with God: Takes Owen's work and explains the key themes to a modern audience - Examines Some Key Attributes of God: Including his Trinitarian nature, love, and grace

Noted Attorney and Seminary Graduate Matthew T. Martens Answers the Question: Does the Design and Operation of the American Criminal Justice System Reflect Christian Love of Neighbor? Jesus told his followers that the entirety of the Old Testament's law is encapsulated in the commands to love God and to love their neighbors as themselves. In Reforming Criminal Justice: A Christian Proposal, Matthew T. Martens argues that love of neighbor must be the animating force for true reformation of the criminal justice system, obligating us to seek the best for both the criminally victimized and the criminally accused. Using his theological training Martens reveals how Scripture provides several guideposts (accuracy, due process, accountability, impartiality, and proportionality) for loving our neighbors as it relates to criminal justice. Then, drawing on his near quarter century practicing criminal law, he examines how America's justice system falls short of the biblical standard. By understanding how our current system operates and considering how love of neighbor relates to issues of crime and justice, we will be better equipped to seek true Christian reform of the justice system. - A Biblical Perspective on Criminal Justice: Offers a biblical framework for thinking about the concept of justice for both the victim and the perpetrator - Examines the History of the American Criminal Justice System: Surveys the evolution of the criminal justice system in the United States with a focus on its misuse from the time of the Civil War to the civil rights movement - Assesses the Criminal Justice System: Examines the operation of the American justice system today, including plea bargains, assistance of counsel, the death penalty, and more - Foreword by Derwin L. Gray: Pastor of Transformation Church in Indian Land, South Carolina, and the author of How to Heal Our Racial Divide and Building a Multiethnic Church

Apologetic Primer Explains How Reason Supports Christianity's Claims From the classroom to mainstream media, Christians regularly find their fundamental beliefs discounted by opponents who consider faith to be incompatible with reason. Faith is viewed as subjective, emotional, and a crutch for those who find the real world too hard. The late R. C. Sproul, however, claims faith reveals just how rational Christianity truly is. This audiobook surveys the history and fundamentals of apologetics to demonstrate how reason and scientific inquiry actually support Christianity's claims—thus equipping believers to defend the existence of God and the Bible's authority. The defense of the faith is not a luxury or an intellectual vanity. It is a task appointed by God to give reason to your eternal hope as you bear witness before the world. - A Logical and Biblical Defense: Sets forth the basic truth claims of Christianity to show the rationality of the Christian faith - Comprehensive: Deals with arguments from philosophy, science, reason, logic, and history - Ideal for New and Seasoned Believers Alike: Helps Christians know what they believe and why they believe it - Great Resource for Individual, Small Group, or Classroom Study

Fear is one of the strongest human emotions, and it is one that often baffles Christians. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." —Proverbs 1:7 Fear is one of the strongest human emotions—and one that often baffles Christians. In the Bible the picture can seem equally confusing: Is fear a good thing or a bad thing? And what does it mean to "fear the Lord"? In this audiobook, Michael Reeves clears the clouds of confusion and shows that the fear of the Lord is not a negative thing at all, but an intensely delighted wondering at God, our Creator and Redeemer.

A Comprehensive Anthology of Prayers and Petitions throughout Church History Throughout history, Christians have sought guidance to bolster their spiritual walk with Christ and life of prayer. Even Christ's disciples would ask, "Lord, teach us to pray" (Luke 11:1). But in our current individualistic culture, it's almost too easy to neglect the wisdom of those who came before us. To restore a love of historic Christian tradition, theology, and practice, this comprehensive anthology combines prayers and petitions of the greatest figures throughout the formation of the church, continuing through the medieval, Reformation, and modern eras. Editors Jonathan W. Arnold and Zachariah M. Carter provide context for each prayer through expert introductions, commentary, and biographical explorations. Ultimately readers will be encouraged in their faith as they learn the importance of prayer and witness the hearts and struggles of the saints. - Helpful Historical Resource: A chronological anthology of prayers and petitions throughout church history - Features Church History's Greatest Figures: Clement of Rome, Gregory of Nyssa, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, and more - Useful as a Devotional Aid: Helps readers strengthen their knowledge of prayer and develop their walk with Christ - Ideal for Church Leaders and Laypeople Alike: Pastors, historians, theologians, Bible teachers, and individual believers