The God Question: An Invitation to a Life of Meaning (ConversantLife.com®) Review

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(More customer reviews)The God Question has something for everyone. It is well-written, warm, clearly argued without being overly technical, and engaging. Even if you disagree with his conclusions at the end of the day, I think you will concede that Moreland has been fair, honest, thoughtful, and authentic about life's biggest question...God.
Dr. Moreland is a prolific author who has written on a wide variety of topics like: happiness, the existence of God, the nature of the soul, spiritual formation, and doubt, just to name a few.
In this book, you get a little bit of all of that (and more) sprinkled in and shaped into a compelling narrative journey of faith. Moreland does not shy away from hard topics like Hell and how can Jesus be the only way. He also spends time exploring who Jesus was and how we can know about Him in history. Moreover, he talks about the powerful evidence for God from the origin and design of the universe in an accessible manner. But this is not merely a book defending the faith (i.e., apologetics).
Moreland places these fascinating and important discussions within the narrative of the Biblical story and his own faith journey in walking with Jesus for 40 years. For example he lets the reader into his own relationship-struggles and joys-with Jesus. And then he places this discussion within a wonderful explanation of the central message of Jesus: proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.
Moreland paints a compelling (and jargon free) picture of what eternal life with God could and should be like according to the New Testament while also spending subsequent chapters talking about how to get good at life according to Jesus. Finally, he wraps up with an enlightening chapter on the afterlife.
Today, there is a lot of confusion about religion in general and Christianity in particular. If you are looking for a thoughtful book, written from the perspective of a follower of Jesus, and that gets past the heat and stereotypes, then The God Question is for you.
High school and college students would also enjoy: Welcome to College: A Christ-Follower's Guide for the Journey


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A leading evangelical thinker offers this brand-new way of addressing life's most important questions: Does God exist, and can we know Him? J.P. Moreland, distinguished professor of philosophy at Talbot School of Theology, abandons traditional didactic apologetics and entices skeptics and dissatisfied believers into a conversation about the emptiness and anxiety so many feel today. He invites them to the abundant life Jesus offers but that so few seem to be experiencing.

Moreland shows that people are created by a benevolent God and given a life-enhancing purpose. He empowers readers to...

overcome obstacles to faith, including questions about science and religion
embrace an enticing view of Jesus and the kingdom of God
replace unhelpful images of God with the truth

Readers will find practical and effective ways to experience intimacy with God, an effective life of prayer, and a confident hope in life after death.

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Religion and Popular Culture in America Review

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(More customer reviews)This text, which is , in fact an anthology of academic papers on the topic of religion(s) and popular culture is limited by the fact that it only deals with the United States while claiming to deal with America? Other than this, however the essays are for the most part informative, intelligent and lucid in an easily accessible diction and content. Not being a huge fan of abstract theoretical constructions myself, I found the articles well-organized and significant in their content. At the same time, the extensive annotated bibliographies that accompanied each article were useful for myself in tracking down relevant data with regards to the articles about the internet, Pale Rider and Rap music and would, I assume, be likewise for those interested in pursuing other subjects such as the presence of sports and religion or weight loss as a soteriological undertaking.
While I definitely feet that there is a tremendous amount to be gained from reading these articles as far as their in-depth analysis of the interrelationship between Religion and Popular Culture in the United States, I also was intrigued by the fact that. The editors of the volume as well as the vast majority of their contributors felt compelled to support, or rather accepted as a foregone conclusion the concept that religious and popular cultures constitute two areas of thought and endeavor that are, more or less, mutually distinguishable. It seemed to me, even before reading the text, that religion is, primarily another manifestation of popular culture. One of its unique characteristics is the attempt of its supporters to construct an immutable facade which belies the extreme volatility and changeability of even its most cherished and central concepts and practices.

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When Couples Walk Together: 31 Days to a Closer Connection Review

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(More customer reviews)Hugh and Cindi McMenamin have served in ministry for more than 20 years, and over the course of those years have had many opportunities to observe and counsel married couples who feel they are drifting apart and can't really explain why. In WHEN COUPLES WALK TOGETHER, the McMenamins have created a very practical and helpful guide that can serve to draw couples closer together and put some romance back into their marriage.
In addition to a clearly defined Table of Contents, each chapter represents a day of the month in which that chapter is to be shared and discussed. Broken up into sections, the guide allows couples to take turns reading and to pause and reflect on the topic. For example, in the chapter for Day 4, "Praising the Positive," Cindi shares an anecdote to illustrate this step. She tells about being pulled aside by her youth pastor, who told her that Hugh was an awesome guy but was one of the moodiest people ever. Cindi was defensive and said that Hugh was a deep thinker, not an impulsive talker, and that was just what she wanted in a husband. Then she writes, "Now, after 22 years of marriage, instead of appreciating my deep thinker, I find myself, at times, thinking things like Hugh is the moodiest person I know."
There are several ways to handle a situation like this, in which one of the most endearing things about your mate during courtship is now the very thing that drives you up the wall. Not to be outdone, Hugh relates his feelings about how he had always admired Cindi's way with words and her skills as a journalist. But he adds that "after more than 20 years together, there are days when I wish she wasn't quite as verbal, especially when she finds something she thinks is wrong with me. And, she's reciting her thoughts unabridged and I'm looking for the Reader's Digest version." I'm sure that readers can come up with their own annoying characteristics that they have "discovered" in their mates.
How did Cindi and Hugh deal with this issue? They learned the importance of focusing on the positive traits in their spouse. As it says in Philippians 4:8, "Keep you minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worth of praise." In order to get past this type of issue, each must "choose" to focus on the positives and minimize the negatives when it comes to their mate.
As in each chapter, the authors offer "Taking the Next Step," which suggests ways to turn negative thoughts into positive ones by reframing. This is followed by an exercise called "Going the Extra Mile" that encourages couples to talk about what attracted them to each other in the first place.
Finally, the last section, "Going the Distance Through Prayer," encourages a joint prayer, asking God to show them how to follow the plan that He inspired through the Bible.
Whether you would like to use this book for a small group study or simply to spark up your own marriage, WHEN COUPLE WALK TOGETHER offers excellent suggestions and clearly stated Biblical principles and confirmations.
--- Reviewed by Maggie Harding, a substance abuse counselor in Phoenix, AZ who wanted to be Brenda Starr before life intervened. She reviews for [...], [...] and [...]

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The demands of everyday life almost always pull husbands and wives in different directions. And even when they are together, there's very little opportunity to just be a couple. Work, children, and other commitments make it a constant challenge to find quality time alone.Hugh and Cindi McMenamin have put together an innovative devotional about meaningful ways that husbands and wives can draw closer together. Each reading in this 31-day book offers simple, helpful (and fun!) steps a husband and wife can take to nourish closeness and intimacy. Among the topics are
the power of a note
making a memory
extending grace
splurging on love
finding a getaway
lighten the load
flirting again
sharing your heart
Key thoughts from Scripture are interwoven into each devotion, and each ends with 'Points to Ponder Together" as well as a couple's prayer. Especially helpful are the frequent anecdotal tips from a woman's perspective (Cindi) and a man's (Hugh).

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John Donne - The Major Works: including Songs and Sonnets and sermons (Oxford World's Classics) Review

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(More customer reviews)John Donne wrote some of the most beautiful, intelligent, and passionate poetry in the English language! With some poets you get 1 or 2 of these qualities: with Donne you get all 3, and so I highly recommend his poetry to all lovers of poetry and English literature. The language is archaic and at times difficult, but that's also some of its beauty and charm. What's more noteworthy but less noticed than the oldness of the language is how fresh and alive it still seems and must have seemed in centuries past! While I love Donne's poetry especially because of his intelligent and beautiful passion for God, even those without religious faith will appreciate the brilliance and glory of Donne's poetry.
If you're able to keep up with Donne's poetry, you'll discover startling phrases and juxtapositions which were frowned upon in ages past but which I find helps invigorate the modern reader. Whether your primary way of apprehending poetry is religious, intellectual, or aesthetic, Donne will be a delight to you as it does me. Donne's poetry also has a very personal association with me: when I was courting my wife and in the early years of my marriage, I would read her the poetry of Donne and George Herbert. She not only loved the poetry but loved me more for having read it to her!
This Oxford World's Classics edition is not only affordable but authoritative. It includes not only Donne's poetry but also his prose, such as his sermons and letters. Introduction, textual notes, bibliography, chronology, and explanatory notes. Along with the Norton edition, it is the most definitive collection of Donne's works, although the Norton edition has more critical apparatuses.
Highly recommended!


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John Donne (1572-1631) is perhaps the most important poet of the seventeenth century, and has often been referred to as the founder of the metaphysical genre. His poetry is highly distinctive and individual, adopting a multitude of tones, images, forms, and personae. This collection of Donne's verse includes a wide selection from both his secular and divine poems, including such well-known poems as "Air and Angels," "The Flea," the "Holy Sonnets", and "The Progress of the Soul." The poems are provided with full Notes and a useful Introduction to Donne's life and poetry.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

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Raising Spiritual Children: Cultivating a Revelatory Life Review

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(More customer reviews)This is the first book I have read that really covers most if not all aspects of Spiritual Maturity. From the point of view of Parenting, Pastoring and or even the child's, all the bases are covered. The transparency and character of Patty and Greg make this a fun, interesting and a book that goes beyond a challenge and demands a change. I have already implemented several new words and expressions into my communications with my boys and better, my wife. This book has real heart and I mean the heart of God for us. If you know something needs to change in the way we raise our children, disciple our young and or as you look at yourself, I assure you "Raising Spiritual Children" will bless and help transform our character and relationships.

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There are many Christian parenting books available today, but Raising Spiritual Children: Cultivating a Revelatory Life by Patricia and Greg Mapes is unique. It will not only help you raise your prophetic or spiritually gifted children, but it will enhance the overall spiritual life and atmosphere in your home.
This book answers these questions and more:
What does it mean to be spiritually gifted, and how can we help our children grow in this?How can we nurture a child's spirituality?What are the most important things parents can do for their children in order to raise them with God as their focus?What are some practical things that we can do to help our children grow in relationship with God?What do our children's dreams mean?How can we put a stop to our children s repeated nightmares?
This book will help parents and children embrace the gifts God has given them and grow up to be whole and spiritual people as well as healthy individuals, family members, friends, leaders, and children of God.
Whether you have recognized spiritual gifting in your children, or you want to nurture what you know God has deposited within them, this book is for you.

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The 10 Best Decisions a Man Can Make: The Adventure of Living in God's Plan Review

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(More customer reviews)The 10 Best Decisions a Man Can Make: The Adventure of Living in God's Plan is a tool to assist men in making decisions. Too often we make rash decisions without enough thought or guidance. Even decisions that seem inconsequential or unimportant but all decisions have consequences.
This book is very informative. I felt I was taking an examination while reading. Although this is a good read, there were some things that I thought could have been added, such as in my belief having a Bible available to reference the scriptures that are mentioned in this book. Waiting on God often tries our patience. However, God has a plan for our live, and if we will just be still and now He is God, we will make the right decisions.
I am a woman, so reading the 10 Best of a Man could also be used for a Woman, henceforth the author's wife has written a book, the 10 Best Decisions a Woman can make, and together the authors have written how to make the 10 Best Decisions for Parenting. I think all three of the books will make a good reading series.

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Men today have important decisions to make about family, career, and ministry. Sometimes the choices can seem overwhelming, and men end up making decisions by default-by doing what comes naturally rather than by carefully thought-out principles. In The 10 Best Decisions a Man Can Make, popular author and speaker Bill Farrel gives men the hands-on decision-making tools they need to make the kinds of choices they won't regret. Farrel encourages men to discover the joy of finding their place in God's plan as theyexplore the positive benefits of making healthy decisions discover their personal pace in life and make decisions in keeping with that pacedevelop a plan for godliness that relieves the burden of self-effortlearn to make decisions based on personal character rather than what feels right at the moment

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Introduction to Evangelism Review

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(More customer reviews)This work is intended by the author to be used by pastors and students in the field of evangelism. Reid divides the subject matter into three major sections with five chapters in each of the first two sections and eight in the final section. The major headings are: Part 1, What We Must Know: The Convictional Basis of Evangelism, Part 2, How We Must Live: The Spiritual Basis of Evangelism, and Part 3, What We Must Do: The Methodological Basis of Evangelism. This review will focus on the second section regarding the spiritual basis of evangelism.
In Part 2, Reid introduces his topic by relating the attitude of Dr. David Livingstone in his passion for the lost souls of Africa to the need for the individual to not only be equipped with a biblical basis for evangelism but with a heart that is "filled with a passion for God." As the reader moves through this section, he is exposed to the author's ideas regarding Christian character, Christian discipline, evangelistic prayer, the work of the Holy Spirit and Christian witness in that order. This structure points up one of the major weaknesses in Reid's approach to the subject. If the reader is expected to understand the spiritual basis of evangelism and is introduced to this section with the example of Livingstone's passion for souls, then the reader should have been led immediately to the source of this passion in a chapter on the Holy Spirit's work in evangelism. Instead, one has to wade through two chapters that should follow the explanation of the Holy Spirit's place since character and discipline are part of the work of the Spirit. In addition, Reid's chapter on prayer discusses several aspects of the Holy Spirit's work through the prayer life of the evangelist but the reader has not yet been introduced to the fundamentals of the Holy Spirit as The Evangelist.
The second weakness of Reid's approach is also his greatest strength. Reid has a great enthusiasm for his subject and is obviously a practitioner and not a theorist. This book is extremely readable because the author tells his and other people's experiences along with injecting other anecdotal material to hold the reader's interest. The narrative flow of the book makes one want to keep reading and seeing where the author will go next, what interesting characters will be met, what extraordinary circumstances will be experienced. However, in the fast moving stream of the narrative, one loses the impact of the principles that the author has learned by experience or through the experiences of others. At the point where one should stop and reflect on the eight scriptural principles involved in "Praying Your Friends to Christ" at the end of the chapter with that title, the author suddenly takes the reader on another anecdotal ride with a student named Joel who shares Jesus with a stranger. The chapter is concluded with a wonderful quote from Leonard Ravenhill that makes no mention of prayer at all. The reader would have greatly benefited from a logical and practical summation of the important points in each chapter so that he could return to them in outline form and flesh them out as needed from the body of Reid's work. This approach would have been more in keeping with the books purpose as being a guide for students and pastors.
In the book's preface, Reid relates a personal anecdote regarding his early reservations about writing as a professional. His entire perspective about himself in this regard was dramatically changed by a small note of encouragement from a professor. In the same vein, it would be well if someone could get the message across to the author that he is "a very good evangelist." Much of the enormous value of this text is buried in the telling of too many tales about other evangelists and their work when what the reader needs to know is how the author does the work of an evangelist in a way that he can relate to personally. The professor that encouraged Reid long ago is correct, he is a very good writer in that he knows how to keep his subject interesting and alive. There is no doubt that the author can demonstrate enthusiastically his passion for Christ and lead others in a personal forum to become soul-winners. If heart and enthusiasm are the most important elements an evangelist needs then this text is sufficient. However, if one is in need of a stronger methodology or a teaching text, then all the elements are available in the present text but some work will be involved in establishing those elements into a clear structure.

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'The evangelistic mandate', says Alvin Reid, 'is central to the mission of the church in any age'. In this important new book, Reid traces the essence of evangelism -- its history and character -- teaching Christians how to preach the Gospel effectively. Using methods built upon biblical, historical, and theological foundations, this exhaustive guide integrates doctrinal issues with practical matters of methodology, while developing the personal spirituality of those who seek to carry out the Great Commission. By recognizing the timeless aspects of the evangelistic task and adapting them to today's needs and the needs of the future, Reid gives Christians the tools they need to spread the Word with assurance at the dawn of the new millennium.

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The One Year Daily Insights with Zig Ziglar (One Year Signature Line) Review

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(More customer reviews)The One Year Daily Insights with Zig Ziglar and Dr. Ike Reighard
This is a devotional book with dates on each page, so you can start it any time, and any year. Each page has a topic, one scripture verse, a reading, two questions, and a quote by various speakers and public figures.
Here are examples of questions and quotes:
Do you want to be the kind of wise person who has a profound influence on others? Why or why not?
Are you willing to pay the price? Explain your answer.
What's the best news you've ever received?
How do you respond to criticism?
What are the common temptations you face everyday?
How can you overcome bitterness?
What are some recurring situations that cause you to run away in fear or fight back in defiance?
Who are the people you trust to tell you the truth?
What are some things you tend to worry about?
"To see His star is good, but to see His face is better." D.L. Moody
"To disregard what the world thinks of us is not only arrogant but utterly shameless." Cicero
"The only question Jesus ever asked God is `Why have you forsaken me?' This is the same question most every believer asks at some point in their spiritual journey." Ike Reighard
"He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life." Ralph Waldo Emerson
There is a small space at the bottom of each page, so you could write a couple of thoughts in the book if you wanted to as you go through the daily reading. Good train reading. Also would be a nice springboard for a Christian accountability group to go through together and discuss the various topics.


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A well-known authority on complete and balanced success, Zig Ziglar hasauthored such best sellers as See You at the Top, Top Performance, Over the Top, and Secrets of Closing the Sale. As popular motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar has spoken on the same stage as Presidents Ford, Reagan, Bush, General Norman Schwarzkopf, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, and Paul Harvey. Now, for the first time ever, Zig Ziglar has gathered his insights on what the Bible says about life.

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Prepare for Rain: The Story of a Church That Believed God for the Impossible Review

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(More customer reviews)"I am still amazed at the movies Flywheel and Facing the Giants. They are like "the little engine that could." Michael Catt took the impossible and let it be HIM-possible. I remember him saying that in a meeting one time, and now that statement is being lived out in front of all of our eyes. I am so excited that these movies and their stories are being published for the masses. Hooray for the dreamers that do not listen to the voice that says, "It can't be done." Congrats Michael and Sherwood for stepping out and doing the HIM-possible!"
--Mark Harris, Contemporary Christian Artist and Songwriter
"Like Moses and Israel, Michael Catt and the people of Sherwood Baptist are inextricably bound together, experiencing the blessing of God and supernaturally accomplishing more than is naturally possible. Theirs is a remarkable marriage of vision and faith; a humble reminder of what every church can be by the grace of God."
--Tom Elliff, Senior Vice President, International Mission Board, Southern Baptist Convention
"I love people with a global vision. Monuments are not erected to pessimists. Michael Catt is a visionary. Facing the Giants is a success because a leader allowed those around him to be creative. Michael is "giver" not a "taker." The remarkable success of this movie is not a surprise to me. It is just Michael Catt being Michael Catt! The story of Facing the Giants will bless and thrill you. Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany is a special place. After you read the book, go visit the church. It is a church filled with GIANTS for God!"
--Roger Breland, Executive Director and Dean, Center for Performing Arts
University of Mobile, Founder of TRUTH
"Many books tell us the "what" and some even tell us the "why". Thank you, Michael Catt, for writing about the "how". I appreciate your knack of cutting to the chase and telling it like it is. This book inspires me to motivate people to be involved in something bigger by showing me the footsteps of the vision for a local church."
--Charles Lowery, President, Lowery Institute for Excellence

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Can We Do That? Innovative Practices that will Change the Way You Do Church Review

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(More customer reviews)Andy Stanley and Ed Young both pastor mega-churches, so their advice should certainly be considered. I also believe that their hearts are right and I applaud their desire to see people come to Christ and be grounded in the church. That being said, their is a subtle danger laced throughout the book and it is the false assumption that whatever works is good. The ends justify most means. One cannot escape the pragmatism in this book. Pragmatism is fine if decisions are made within the proper biblical framework, but in this case that isn't always the case. In the end, this book fosters a consumer mentality towards the church that results in lots of breadth but not as much depth. There are good practical suggestions, but not much theology, which is sorely needed.

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No matter how you ask the questions, the answer is always the same. Yes you can! You can incorporate innovative strategies into your church ministrystrategies that will affect not only the way you do church but that will dramatically impact the lives of current church members and help you in reaching out to your community. In this refreshingly practically book, Andy Stanley and Ed Youngtwo of America's most innovative and effective church leadersdeliver twenty-four creative ministry tools that you can adapt and use to help your own church be all God intends it to be. The inspirational stories on North Point Community Church in Atlanta and the Fellowship Church in Dallas are stories of small church plants that have grown into churches with weekend attendance of nine and fifteen thousand. But the true success of these dynamic churches is not revealed in their big numbers but in the lives that have been forever changed by the life-giving message of Jesus. What you learn in the pages of this book will enable you to change the lives of those you serve -- forever.

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The Trouble With Paris: Following Jesus in a World of Plastic Promises Review

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(More customer reviews)Mark Sayers' new book The Trouble with Paris is outstanding. Well informed, insightful, articulate, and down to earth are just a few thoughts that come to mind when describing this tour de force. Sayers has a unique ability to have his finger on the pulse of contemporary culture and Christianity, and proves to be a capable guide through the thickets of that which is counterfeit and fake. Today we're submersed in the media driven and publicity shaped hollow promises of hyperreality, which are driving us to embrace the unreal and consequently an impoverished spirituality. Reading this powerful book will help us get back to the real and lead us to a rediscovery of our spiritual bearings for the present and the future.
In working with Swiss L'Abri for over twenty years now, my take on this book is that it's exactly what we need to get our priorites aligned with living in God's reality, instead of trying and failing to make it up as we go along. Hyperreality is deceptively addictive, and if we are to touch a generation of people for the sake of Christ, it is books like Sayers' The Trouble with Paris that will help pave the way. Highly recommended.


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What if you're living in the wrong reality?
Doesn't everyone want the good life these days? Our shopping mall world offers us a never-ending array of pleasures to explore. Consumerism promises us a vision of heaven on earth-a reality that's hyper-real. We've all experienced hyperreality: a candy so 'grape-ey' it doesn't taste like grapes any more; a model's photo so manipulated that it doesn't even look like her; a theme park version of life that tells us we can have something better than the real thing. But what if this reality is not all that it's cracked up to be? Admit it, we've been ripped off by our culture and its version of reality that leaves us lonely, bored, and trapped. But what's the alternative?

In The Trouble With Paris, pastor Mark Sayers shows us how the lifestyles of most young adults (19-35) actually work against a life of meaning and happiness to sabotage their faith. Sayers shows how a fresh understanding of God's intention for our world is the true path to happiness, fulfillment, and meaning.

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Passing the Plate: Why American Christians Don't Give Away More Money Review

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(More customer reviews)As a seminary student with plans enter the priesthood, I found Passing the Plate valuable and helpful. The authors approach the inquiry of "Why American Christians don't give away more money" with genuine concern and interest in those who profess a faith but don't support it financially as their faith suggests they should. The tone throughout the book is measured not to criticize or accuse Christians of fault but moreso to help Christians live up to their faith and to fund the causes in which they believe. I appreciated their motives, processes, honesty and suggestions.
The authors present themselves as sociologists rather than theologians or Christian leaders. Their endeavor is to research and study Christian giving that they might determine the thoughts, attitudes, emotions and resources behind Christian giving or lack of it.
They study and analyze a plethora of data on giving and givers. They perform their own surveys and interviews of Christian leaders and parishoners to get to the core of the issue. The data results of their studies are eye opening to say the least, and most of their statistics are clear and tell a revealing story of who gives, how much they give and why they give or don't give.
The authors offer and test hypotheses of why American Christians don't give more money--at least closer to the 10% tithe prescribed by most Christian organizations. They discuss their findings in relation to these hypotheses.
After discussing their findings, they present suggestions for Christian leaders to implement in their congregations to increase giving in conformity with their faith. These are coherent, practical applications that are not manipulative or conniving but what I think are really helpful suggestions that readers can consider.
I think this book is one that pastors and Christian leaders will find valuable and instructional. I think it will also ease discomfort and anxiety that leaders may have when it comes to discussing money and teaching about finances within their churches.
Craig Stephans, author of Shakespeare On Spirituality: Life-Changing Wisdom from Shakespeare's Plays

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Well Connected: Releasing Power, Restoring Hope through Kingdom Partnerships Review

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(More customer reviews)Phill Butler gives us one of those books that takes an action sport or skill that is usually performed on an intuitive or visceral level and reduces it to a formula.
Don't get me wrong. This is not a criticism. Many of us need precisely such a formula that provides a handle, a method, or a path. Butler has given us that, and is to be thanked for doing so.
Six more or less balanced sections move from top to bottom as they view the complex dance that leads to partnership among Christian churches, parachurch organizations, and related missional groups:
One: The Big Picture
Two: The God Design
Three: Behind the Scenes
Four: On the Way
Five: Working It Out
Six: Special Cases, Special Opportunities
After telling his own story in an introduction, the author utilizes Part One ('The Big Picture') to build a case for partnership based on both pragmatic and biblical principle. In the first instance - and since 'all truth is God's truth' - Christians have much to learn from the business world and its own experience of strategic alliances. What's more, we ought to anticipate that many of the dynamics that lead to success or failure in that arena will also prove to be operative in our own.
With respect to biblical instruction on partnership, Butler believes that partnership is akin to unity and that unity is near to the Father's heart. It may work, and that's all to the good. But it's also *right*, Butler would seem to argue, and that's almost justification enough for the significant and sometimes grueling exertions that true partnership requires.
Finally in Part One, the author defines the menu of alliances that are commonly available, subjugating structure and talk to matters of mission as he does so. Butler has a penchant for graphs, many of which repay careful analysis. He introduces his first one here in a visual that anticipates his perception that certain commonalities in form and process produce the possibility of discerning laws of partnership, though I am not aware that he uses such terminology.
In Part Two ('The God Design'), Butler unveils the theological conviction that drives his work. Many Christians launch facile declarations about 'unity' that mistake intense preoccupation with the matter and location of one's calling with a fractious spirit. This is an unfortunate and undeliberated conclusion, and one that Butler comes perilously close to adopting as he explains why unity is God's idea before it is ours.
Yet he skirts the danger by his confidence that unity is not only God's idea but God's project, thus only worthwhile as God births its, nurtures it, and teaches it to flourish. It is not essentially a feat of human engineering and is to be seen as a process that is watered by human laborers insofar as they offer prayer and relationship in service of its growth. In my judgment, Butler hits the mark with these observations and escapes the tendency of elevating partnership for partnership's sake to the top rung of an organization's strategic planning ladder.
Part Three ('Behind the Scenes') fleshes out how vision, prayer, and relationship join together like three strands of a strong rope.
It was not until reading Butler's Part Four ('On the Way') that I was persuaded I'd depart this book with something valuable in hand. Here WELL CONNECTED morphs into a practical manual for partnership-building to which I will refer frequently by taking it down from the book of well-thumbed manuals perched within reach on the shelf above my desk. In these pages, the author distinguishes himself as someone who has done the thing rather than as a dreamer of fine dreams that lose their pertinence by Thursday afternoon's leadership meeting. If you read only one portion of this book, start here.
Parts Five ('Working It Out') and Six ('Special Cases, Special Opportunities') move the discussion in the direction of case studies and special circumstances. In doing so, they link closely to the fundamental declarations of Part Four.Phill Butler's WELL CONNECTED is not likely to be of service to you as a quick read. However, if you find yourself in leadership of a church or Christian organization, you probably already undertand that today's world is not kind to those who go it alone. If you embrace that apparent fact, then this book can prove a valuable manual as you seek to build the right partnerships for the right purpose at the right moment. It's value will only be multiplied if the coterie of leaders at the head of your organization covenant to read it together.

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Jesus's words in John 17 represent one of the church's highest values: "May they all be one as you and I, Father, are one." Yet divisions occur from the highest levels of the church to street level projects, often neutralizing effectiveness and undercutting the credibility of Jesus's message. This book helps any believer turn the ideal of John 17 into reality. It provides solid grounding in the principles of partnership, abundant case histories, and empowering "how to" suggestions for lay person and ministry leader alike.

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The Goodness of God: Assurance of Purpose in the Midst of Suffering Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a condensed version of Alcorn's IF GOD IS GOOD, and the author makes so many excellent points it's hard to write them all down, but I'll try.
Maybe the key to the whole book is found on page 48, where Alcorn writes this:
"..Because Jesus willingly entered this world of evil and suffering and didn't spare himself, but took on the worst of it for my sake and yours, he has earned my trust even for what I can't understand."
That's really the key for any Christ follower struggling with the question of suffering and if there is any "purpose" behind it. God can be trusted, no matter what happens in life. Period. When a Christian gets to that point, they can handle anything that happens to them or their loved ones, even if they don't and can't understand.
Beyond that, I've always loved Alcorn's writing simply because of the bold statements he makes. Listen to some of these:
.."any faith that leaves us unprepared for suffering is a false faith that deserves to be abandoned." (pg.5)
.."God doesn't need us to rescue him from the problem of evil." (pg.31)
.."to hate suffering is easy; to hate sin is not." (pg.99)
.."Worry is momentary atheism, crying out for correction by trust in a good and sovereign God." (pg.110)
This is a must read for all Christ followers, and even anyone who simply wants to explore more about what it means to have a loving God there for you all the time no matter what suffering you may go through in life.

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Through Pain and Tears…Finding a Way to God's Heart For those times when we're wounded by broken trust, assaulted by disease, or victimized by evil—or when we're crushed to see such things happen to people we love—Randy Alcorn offers something solid to hold onto. In this specially focused condensation of Alcorn's If God Is Good…: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil, we're continually guided into a deeper glimpse of God's loving ways and higher purposes—the very things we're often most blinded to whenever we battle pain and anguish.Alcorn avoids superficial or sentimental responses, and instead presses forward boldly to explore all the troubling doubts and questions that agitate within us when we confront suffering and evil.The issues are far from simple, the answers far from easy—but Alcorn shows how the way of suffering—a path that Jesus himself followed more than anyone else—can ultimately become a journey into wholeness and even logic-defying joy.

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What on Earth is Glory?: A Practical Approach to a Glory-filled Life Review

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(More customer reviews)We are glory carriers!
There is glory in all of us and around all of us.
The game changer is how we define glory and what we know about glory. These two things will in part determine the direction of our lives.
These are statements that give the overarching thoughts of Paul Manwaring's new book entitled, What on Earth is Glory? Paul Manwaring gives 17 jam-packed chapters of insight into what glory really is - and how we see it lived out in the Bible and here on earth today.
The basic structure of the book goes a little something like this. He defines glory as the eternal value that someone or something has because it reveals, points to, and reflects the attributes, nature, and power of God. Throughout each chapter we, the reader, are given countless examples of areas where we can grow in our knowledge of the glory of God. Some examples are: being glorious sons & daughters, the glory of relationships, beauty & glory, honor & glory, shekinah glory, glory & goverment - and well...you get the point, Manwaring does not leave you lacking on approaches towards understanding glory.
Perhaps what gives you the best perspective of what this book is about is to point you to Chapter 16 where Manwaring says, "One of my chief reasons for writing this book is to bring more definition to the nature of glory, whilst also liberating glory from the confines of church buildings, Heaven in the future, or any of the other limits we like to put on it." Each of these topics he delves into throughout the course of the book and after having finished it, I would say he accomplished those two goals in a most honorable fashion.
One thing I really appreciate about the book is how he incorporates writings from his father, as well as his sons in the spirit of letting three generations of Manwaring's speak on this topic of glory. Bethel Church models well the biblical mandate/opportunity of passing on our faith from one generation to the next - and thus I am not surprised to see this modeled in What on Earth is Glory? You too will enjoy this aspect.
In reflecting on this book, I would definitely recommend it to you whether you are a pastor, missionary, or lay member of the church. Ultimately, I am taking away two main things: 1) a variety of nuggets of truth on the subject of glory, and 2) an expanded knowledge about different instances of glory from the Word, both of which I hope to let challenge me and shape me for the days to come. I am confident you'll enjoy the book and walk away saying the same.

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Preachers often quote this majestic promise in describing the consummation of history, the restoration of all things at the end of time. But few seek to uncover the passion of God in this promise: He wants us to know His glory, and He wants us to know it here on earth. What on Earth Is Glory? is one man's journey into this desire of God. From Mt. Sinai to the Cross, from a solitary confinement cell to the snowboarding slopes of Mammoth Lakes, from fathers and mothers to sons and daughters, from time to eternity, Paul Manwaring traces the revelation of God's glory, uncovering the patterns of His divine design and purpose in all things, and inviting others to join him in making the audacious request Moses made millennia ago: "Show me Your glory."

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Word Filled Families Walk in Truth Review

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(More customer reviews)A very readable, refreshingly biblical perspective on the family and parenting that has a fine balance between helpful principles and the practical realm. If there is one book to have in library regarding parenting, this is it. A 10 on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being excellent. It provides encouragement from one who has been there who understands both the difficulties and joys of marriage and raising children.

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This book is a complete study of everything the Bible teaches about marriage and family in 361 pages of easy to read lessons. Laid out in four sections, this book urges the reader to first cultivate godly habits (a Word-filled life); then to energize their relationship with their husband or wife (a Word-filled marriage); then how to apply that in the home (Word-filled parenting); and finally how to never stop having a godly impact on family and friends through Word-filled prayers!

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Youth Culture 101 (Youth Specialties) Review

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(More customer reviews)I am a youth minister of over 300 high school students and to 250 junior high students. I discovered this book through the Youth Specialties podcast a few months back and was so taken by author Walt Mueller's report of youth culture that I purchased and devoured the book.
This book offers parents and youth workers alike an opportunity to see the major trends and attitudes that are working within youth culture. I think the best treatment in this book is on Media and Marketing. Utilizing this information, I taught a class to parents of teens and then had a Life Night (our weekly gatherings in our Life Teen program) for our senior high students on Media and Marketing.
This book, especially in conjunction with "Hurt: Inside the World of Today's Teenager", can equip the parent or youth worker to become "cross-cultural missionaries" for the life and love of the young people today.

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CPYU President Walt Mueller's critically acclaimed book, Understanding Today's Youth Culture, is widely recognized as one of the most thorough and comprehensive overviews of youth culture today.This Gold Medallion Book Award winner is used as a seminal text in colleges, universities, and seminaries around the world, but is especially noted for its honest and easy to read style.The book approaches youth culture from a distinctively Christian perspective and contains chapters on a variety of topics including: music, media, sexuality, materialism, drugs and alcohol, and spirituality.A great resource for parents, educators, youth workers, and pastors.

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