Biblical engagement
Get to grips with the Bible through our author's wisdom and insight. Struggling with a particular book of the Bible? Wanting some insights for a sermon? Looking for tips to help you engage with the Bible? Look no further.
You might also be interested in our Bible reading notes.
{"id":14777190252924,"title":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15","handle":"a-fruitful-life-abiding-in-christ-as-seen-in-john-15-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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\u003cbr\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\u003cbr\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\u003cp\u003e\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.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T10:02:08+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T10:01:16+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Group reading","Jun-19"],"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":53603669901692,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468857","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":141,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468857","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503367548,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001501958524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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\u003cbr\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\u003cbr\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\u003cp\u003e\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.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15
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{"id":14777367527804,"title":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle","handle":"living-differently-to-make-a-difference-the-beatitudes-and-countercultural-lifestyle-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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":"2024-10-29T11:29:31+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:27:46+00:00","vendor":"Will Donaldson","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Group reading","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":53603949543804,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466723","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466723","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001494520188,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001481412988,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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
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{"id":14777406718332,"title":"This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress","handle":"this-crown-of-comfort-god-s-seven-calls-to-women-in-distress","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGod loves women. He deeply cares for those of us who are broken and hurt. And just as he helped his beloved Jerusalem find healing in her brokenness, he does the same for us. For he cried out seven double imperatives to her in the book of Isaiah, seven steps to restore her to wholeness, and he cries out the same to us. But he doesn’t begin by scolding us; instead, he comforts. His first double imperative is, ‘Comfort, comfort,’ despite what has happened in our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn This Crown of Comfort, Eva Leaf shares stories from her own life and from the lives of other women of how God met them in their brokenness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cwM5gQbkiI4?si=HQcCMOpHpSxVQVNR\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UkXt_VjH0a0?si=LG9XcXiaufbUQSZd\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEva Leaf became a Christian at the age of 14 and attended a Canadian Bible College in her twenties. For the last 32 years, she has been a Navigator rep and has just stepped down from leading the Navigators publications team. She lives in Warwickshire, is married and has four grown-up children. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘This is a compelling read; a book to be read slowly and reflectively – although I sometimes struggled to do that as I found myself eager to read the next chapter! The stories Eva recounts from her own life and from the lives of others are often heartbreakingly sad – but her focus isn’t on the heartbreak but on the hope and encouragement which she has gleaned from a life soaked in the truth of Scripture. I found familiar passages from Isaiah’s prophecy coming alive in fresh and transformative ways as Eva unwrapped their relevance for our lives. The opportunity for more focused reflection at the end of each chapter also helps ground what we’ve read within the reality of our own circumstances. I’m already looking forward to reading this book again – even more slowly, more reflectively.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMags Duggan, author, retreat leader and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e conveys seven powerful messages from Isaiah about God’s tender heart towards Jerusalem. The author skillfully intertwines her many personal stories with the messages to illuminate God’s unfailing love to his people. This book is an easy read yet rich with insights, comfort and encouragement – a must for anyone who seeks healing and desires to experience God afresh.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnissa Chung, UKCP registered psychotherapist and supervisor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e is the wondrous feast that God prepares for us in the presence of our enemies, a feast that David speaks of in Psalm 23. How full the table is – a rich and delicious harvest that Eva Leaf has gathered from the book of Isaiah. No matter how broken we are or how hurt, God knows, and he calls us to come to him and receive and savour his love and care so that we can share that love and care with other women. A wonderful book for women to read and study together.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLee Merrill Byrd, author, publisher and editor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Both reflective and instructive, Eva takes us on a deeply personal journey that comforts and reassures. No matter how broken or hurt we are, we are given in this excellent book the tools or ‘the calls of God’ to build a bridge to healing and wholeness. This book reminds us of God’s deep love for us in our time of greatest need and provides a spiritual balm for every situation.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDawn Braithwaite, solicitor and consultant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Who would you go to in a difficult situation or time of distress? Well, I would most certainly consider Eva Leaf. A trusted friend, a confidant with life experience and biblical insight, she provides readers with great insight to the very God of comfort that we all so need – men and women. While written to women, this is a treasure trove coming from the seven calls of God found in Isaiah. Thank you, Eva, for being courageous enough to live this… and then to so very thoughtfully share!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDon Pape, literary agent, Pape Commons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Eva takes you on a valuable journey to see life’s inexplicable and sometimes relentless pains, from God’s viewpoint. Her journey is set in the landscape of God’s beautiful promises for comfort, for restoration and ultimately for transformation. These scriptures are illuminated sensitively by life stories. Each chapter provides the option for a personal reflection, encounter and healing. There is much to linger over and explore along the way, in order to gain new vistas and perspectives, that bring both life and hope.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFiona Oommen, business general manager and leadership coach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Crown of Comfort readers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I began reading this book at a pace, as the stories and insights are riveting, but I knew I wanted to go through it again at a slower pace, processing what God was saying to me. I began journalling using the questions at the end of each chapter. My friend said she was having the same experience, so we agreed to go through the questions together. I have just sent a copy to another friend who is feeling lost but has recently experienced God’s comfort. We're going to read and discuss it together too!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘I am so thankful to have experienced God’s comfort as I read the words of truth and wisdom on each page of this book. I have been able to relearn truth of how God views me and who He says I am. The book is written in such a way that it helped me to process and reflect and I was then able to move forward on the journey of being able to forgive with God’s help whilst receiving comfort only God can give. It is a book that has massively shaped and transformed the past few months of my life as I grieve many hurts. It has really helped me to experience God as a God who comforts whilst walking through pain. I will be sure to pass on this book to those I come alongside who also need that gentle reminder of a God who is with them in life’s hurt and pain.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is written about women and primarily (but not exclusively) for women. It takes us chapter by chapter through the seven double imperatives (e.g., ‘comfort, comfort my people’) that God issues to a broken Jerusalem in the book of Isaiah. There is a progression through these calls: Comfort; Awake, rise up; Awake, get dressed; Depart; Build up; Pass through; Build up. Each chapter contains reflections on the Bible verses, alongside illustrations from the author’s personal experience and that of many others. We are blessed by being allowed to share in such powerful experiences and insights; and there is much practical advice about moving on. This is a book that addresses deep distress and needs and promises even deeper solutions and hope. In the reflections at the end of each chapter it becomes ‘close and personal’. We are encouraged to look deeply into our troubles and ourselves, to write our thoughts and reflect through the day. Whether we are hurting ourselves or seeking to share comfort with those around, there is plenty here to touch our hearts – as God touched Jerusalem.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:50:18+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:48:36+00:00","vendor":"Eva Leaf","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","For Women","Glassboxx","Pastoral care","Women"],"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":53603962651004,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392090","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392090","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503302012,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001502351740,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGod loves women. He deeply cares for those of us who are broken and hurt. And just as he helped his beloved Jerusalem find healing in her brokenness, he does the same for us. For he cried out seven double imperatives to her in the book of Isaiah, seven steps to restore her to wholeness, and he cries out the same to us. But he doesn’t begin by scolding us; instead, he comforts. His first double imperative is, ‘Comfort, comfort,’ despite what has happened in our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn This Crown of Comfort, Eva Leaf shares stories from her own life and from the lives of other women of how God met them in their brokenness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cwM5gQbkiI4?si=HQcCMOpHpSxVQVNR\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UkXt_VjH0a0?si=LG9XcXiaufbUQSZd\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEva Leaf became a Christian at the age of 14 and attended a Canadian Bible College in her twenties. For the last 32 years, she has been a Navigator rep and has just stepped down from leading the Navigators publications team. She lives in Warwickshire, is married and has four grown-up children. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘This is a compelling read; a book to be read slowly and reflectively – although I sometimes struggled to do that as I found myself eager to read the next chapter! The stories Eva recounts from her own life and from the lives of others are often heartbreakingly sad – but her focus isn’t on the heartbreak but on the hope and encouragement which she has gleaned from a life soaked in the truth of Scripture. I found familiar passages from Isaiah’s prophecy coming alive in fresh and transformative ways as Eva unwrapped their relevance for our lives. The opportunity for more focused reflection at the end of each chapter also helps ground what we’ve read within the reality of our own circumstances. I’m already looking forward to reading this book again – even more slowly, more reflectively.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMags Duggan, author, retreat leader and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e conveys seven powerful messages from Isaiah about God’s tender heart towards Jerusalem. The author skillfully intertwines her many personal stories with the messages to illuminate God’s unfailing love to his people. This book is an easy read yet rich with insights, comfort and encouragement – a must for anyone who seeks healing and desires to experience God afresh.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnissa Chung, UKCP registered psychotherapist and supervisor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e is the wondrous feast that God prepares for us in the presence of our enemies, a feast that David speaks of in Psalm 23. How full the table is – a rich and delicious harvest that Eva Leaf has gathered from the book of Isaiah. No matter how broken we are or how hurt, God knows, and he calls us to come to him and receive and savour his love and care so that we can share that love and care with other women. A wonderful book for women to read and study together.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLee Merrill Byrd, author, publisher and editor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Both reflective and instructive, Eva takes us on a deeply personal journey that comforts and reassures. No matter how broken or hurt we are, we are given in this excellent book the tools or ‘the calls of God’ to build a bridge to healing and wholeness. This book reminds us of God’s deep love for us in our time of greatest need and provides a spiritual balm for every situation.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDawn Braithwaite, solicitor and consultant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Who would you go to in a difficult situation or time of distress? Well, I would most certainly consider Eva Leaf. A trusted friend, a confidant with life experience and biblical insight, she provides readers with great insight to the very God of comfort that we all so need – men and women. While written to women, this is a treasure trove coming from the seven calls of God found in Isaiah. Thank you, Eva, for being courageous enough to live this… and then to so very thoughtfully share!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDon Pape, literary agent, Pape Commons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Eva takes you on a valuable journey to see life’s inexplicable and sometimes relentless pains, from God’s viewpoint. Her journey is set in the landscape of God’s beautiful promises for comfort, for restoration and ultimately for transformation. These scriptures are illuminated sensitively by life stories. Each chapter provides the option for a personal reflection, encounter and healing. There is much to linger over and explore along the way, in order to gain new vistas and perspectives, that bring both life and hope.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFiona Oommen, business general manager and leadership coach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Crown of Comfort readers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I began reading this book at a pace, as the stories and insights are riveting, but I knew I wanted to go through it again at a slower pace, processing what God was saying to me. I began journalling using the questions at the end of each chapter. My friend said she was having the same experience, so we agreed to go through the questions together. I have just sent a copy to another friend who is feeling lost but has recently experienced God’s comfort. We're going to read and discuss it together too!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘I am so thankful to have experienced God’s comfort as I read the words of truth and wisdom on each page of this book. I have been able to relearn truth of how God views me and who He says I am. The book is written in such a way that it helped me to process and reflect and I was then able to move forward on the journey of being able to forgive with God’s help whilst receiving comfort only God can give. It is a book that has massively shaped and transformed the past few months of my life as I grieve many hurts. It has really helped me to experience God as a God who comforts whilst walking through pain. I will be sure to pass on this book to those I come alongside who also need that gentle reminder of a God who is with them in life’s hurt and pain.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is written about women and primarily (but not exclusively) for women. It takes us chapter by chapter through the seven double imperatives (e.g., ‘comfort, comfort my people’) that God issues to a broken Jerusalem in the book of Isaiah. There is a progression through these calls: Comfort; Awake, rise up; Awake, get dressed; Depart; Build up; Pass through; Build up. Each chapter contains reflections on the Bible verses, alongside illustrations from the author’s personal experience and that of many others. We are blessed by being allowed to share in such powerful experiences and insights; and there is much practical advice about moving on. This is a book that addresses deep distress and needs and promises even deeper solutions and hope. In the reflections at the end of each chapter it becomes ‘close and personal’. We are encouraged to look deeply into our troubles and ourselves, to write our thoughts and reflect through the day. Whether we are hurting ourselves or seeking to share comfort with those around, there is plenty here to touch our hearts – as God touched Jerusalem.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress
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{"id":14779311489404,"title":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission","handle":"stepping-into-grace-moving-beyond-ambition-to-contemplative-mission-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah... Written 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":"2024-10-30T07:51:43+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T07:50:19+00:00","vendor":"Paul Bradbury","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Glassboxx","Mission","Nov-16","Spirituality"],"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":53604686201212,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465276","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":164,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465276","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001497960828,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001499533692,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah... Written 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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{"id":14779524055420,"title":"Engaging the Word","handle":"engaging-the-word-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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\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":"2024-10-30T09:32:52+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:31:48+00:00","vendor":"Peter M. Phillips","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For churches","Glassboxx","Mission","Oct-17"],"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":53604757012860,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465863","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Engaging the Word - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":201,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465863","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001501565308,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486819708,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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\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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Digital eBook Only - Peter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or...
{"id":14779545813372,"title":"Praying the Way: with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John","handle":"praying-the-way-with-matthew-mark-luke-and-john-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThrough raw and authentic prayers, based on the gospel stories, Terry Hinks leads readers into the heart of the gospels the more clearly to see the needs and joys of today's world. This highly original book helps readers to pray out of, and with, the words of Jesus and to discover the joy of prayer as a two-way conversation - listening as much as speaking to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks' book is a multi-layered gift. At once, it both offers prayers that can enrich personal devotions and public worship and enables insightfully novel theological reflection upon some very familiar material. I am grateful for it myself and warmly commend it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Nigel Uden, URC General Assembly Moderator 2018 - 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks is a gifted wordsmith. His latest book, Praying the Way with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John consists of 160 amazingly fresh prayers - 40 for each gospel - in which Scripture becomes the springboard for the soul. I know of no other prayer resource quite like it. I found these prayers not just stimulating and broadening, but also deeply challenging. This is a book not to be read - but to be used. I warmly commend it to anyone looking for a more authentic relationship with God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Beasley-Murray, 'Church Matters'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks has thought and written over many years about ways that the gospels can inspire and inform our praying. Now this mature collection of prayers draws on important texts from across the four gospels and from all around the themes of the Christian year. The primary tone is reflective, coming near to God in measured, thoughtful praise, and with deep confidence and hope. The language is both reverent and accessible, moving yet not complicated. These prayers would work very well in a church service, and would be equally helpful in a small house group or in private devotion. This book deserves to circulate widely, and I suspect that many copies will become well-worn in the course of the years. This is a resource to return to, time and again, for one's own faith and in the service of others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd John Proctor, General Secretary, The United Reformed Church\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks' thoughtful and useful prayers help us better understand the Jesus presented in each of the gospels. The book is very helpful for personal devotional use, but also an invaluable resource for leaders of worship.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Braunston, Coordinator of URC Daily Devotion Project\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry writes with freshness and honesty to all those who, like him, are trying to walk Christ's way. Like a seasoned traveller, he crafts prayers - inspired by the four gospels - that act as a way marker for his fellow travellers. I warmly commend this resource to enable us all to pray the way before turning back to the challenges that await us on the road.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Richard Church, Deputy General Secretary (Discipleship) of The United Reformed Church\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Praying the Way, Terry Hinks has developed his work around the four gospels into a thoughtful and accessible resource for prayer. He takes Jesus' life and relationship with his heavenly Father as a starting point for exploring our own life of prayer. This book, while primarily designed as an aid to personal devotion, will, I am sure, be a source of material for many worship leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Clare Downing, Moderator of the Wessex Synod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks is a United Reformed Church minister, serving churches in Hereford, Reading and Romsey before moving to two churches in the High Wycombe area. He served as Secretary to the URC Doctrine Prayer and Worship Committee and contributed the Order of Daily Worship to the URC's Service Book Worship. He is the author of a number of books on prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader website, 6 March 2019. Review by Laura Hillman.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis collection of prayers and meditations is firmly anchored in the four gospels. An introduction to each section highlights the characteristics of prayer in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The reader is invited to follow 'the way', a life based on prayer leading to action and changed attitudes. The author has obviously thought hard and long about the lessons to be learned and the strength to be gained from meditating on the scriptures. Each prayer is introduced by a sentence from the relevant gospel with a reference to the longer passage from which it is drawn. The language is refreshingly simple and direct with sparing and effective use of imagery. Although rooted in the Bible, the text has multiple references to life in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecentury. As well as being a springboard for personal prayer these readings will provide new insights for preachers and study group leaders looking for a fresh take on a well-known text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Laura Hillman\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.readers.cofe.anglican.org\/resources\"\u003ewww.readers.cofe.anglican.org\/resources\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine, Dec 2018-Jan2019, reviewed by John Proctor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks has thought and written over many years about ways in which the gospels can inspire and shape our praying. His long ministry, across four United Reformed Church pastorates, has certainly deepened and developed this work, and now he has provided us with a rich collection of mature prayers, drawing on important texts from across the four gospels and around the themes of the Christian year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePraying the Way \u003c\/em\u003econtains 160 prayers in all - 40 based on passages in each of the gospels. Most of them are short - between about 100 and 150 words in length - and, while Hinks has a recognisable mood and approach, there is definitely no single pattern of length, rhythm or style. The primary tone is reflective, drawing near to God in measured, thoughtful praise, with deep confidence and hope, yet often with searching humility too. The language is both reverent and accessible, often moving, never complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe prayers in \u003cem\u003ePraying the Way\u003c\/em\u003e would work well in church worship and could be equally helpful in a house group or for private use. They would connect most deeply with Christians who were reasonably familiar with the bibilcal material, and who were glad to have their thoughts taken to new places in their praying. Worship leaders will welcome the book, not least because the prayers relate so directly and obviously to scripture passages, many of which appear in the Revised Common Lectionary used in Sunday services.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA few sample snippets from the book with show the counterpoint of freshness and familiarity. The prayer based on Matthew 18:12-13 talks of 'sheep, ready to be counted, not to send us to sleep, but to waken us to your kingdom'. The one on Mark 2:1-12 says: 'Let us praise God for friends who carry us through the darkest of times'. The prayer for Luke 15:8-10 asks: 'Holy Spirit, sweep through the dust of my life'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book deserves to be widely known and well used, and many copies will surely become well-worn in the course of the years. This is a resource to return to, time and again, for one's own faith and in the service of others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Proctor is General Secretary of the United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This is a real treasure trove. Here are 40 readings and prayers for each of the 4 Gospels; 160 pages of wisdom, illumination, inspiration and motivation with helpful introductions and an Appendix suggesting ways in which these jewels can be made to sparkle. What is found here is not just the product of academic study but of rich pastoral experience in grass-roots ministry serving churches in Hereford, Reading, Romsey and High Wycombe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe value of these crisp reflections is that they can be used systematically to travel through the Gospels or they can be dipped into. They are also a valuable starting point for sermon preparation because of their pithy headings and the prayers which give further insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI warmly commend this creative devotional book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Tom Stuckey, a Former President of the Methodist Church in Britain\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, 16.01.19. Reviewed by Keith Parr\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself in a rather beautiful place in late October.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is this beautiful little Baptist church in beautiful Bunessan on the beautiful Isle of Mull in beautiful Scotland. Everything about it is, well beautiful! The people smile an outrageous amount, the weather is always clement (unless it's cold and raining which happens quite a lot) and the view from the pulpit... oh my, I could wax lyrical about the view from the pulpit for hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself in this beautiful place clutching this book I'd promised to review. I don't normally use much liturgy or many written prayers when I lead worship, but decided to take \u003cem\u003ePraying the Way\u003c\/em\u003e for a trial run this Sunday morning, knowing after the service I could ask all of the congregation if it helped or hindered their encounter with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is how it works: Terry Hinks has written prayers around various passages in the four Gospels. As I was preaching on John 4:1-42 (Jesus and the woman at the well) after the reading, I used the prayer based on that passage. Leading the prayer felt a little odd, but that could be put down to my lack of practice with this form of praying. The congregation, though, all seemed to appreciate the structure and pauses (which I put in), especially because it related to the reading and the sermon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI probably wouldn't have purchased this, but it is the kind of book that I will know I can dip into if needs be. If your church uses liturgical language you will like this a lot. If you don't, then it isn't a bad idea to have these resources around, and this is not a bad place to start.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Keith Parr, the minister at Maghull Baptist Church north of Liverpool\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:42:13+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:41:22+00:00","vendor":"Terry Hinks","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Glassboxx","Oct-18","Prayer"],"price":1099,"price_min":1099,"price_max":1099,"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":53604764680572,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467171","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Praying the Way: with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1099,"weight":248,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467171","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/281.png?v=1730980241","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/282.png?v=1730980330"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/281.png?v=1730980241","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001467912572,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/281.png?v=1730980241"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/281.png?v=1730980241","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001488753020,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/282.png?v=1730980330"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/282.png?v=1730980330","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThrough raw and authentic prayers, based on the gospel stories, Terry Hinks leads readers into the heart of the gospels the more clearly to see the needs and joys of today's world. This highly original book helps readers to pray out of, and with, the words of Jesus and to discover the joy of prayer as a two-way conversation - listening as much as speaking to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks' book is a multi-layered gift. At once, it both offers prayers that can enrich personal devotions and public worship and enables insightfully novel theological reflection upon some very familiar material. I am grateful for it myself and warmly commend it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Nigel Uden, URC General Assembly Moderator 2018 - 2020\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks is a gifted wordsmith. His latest book, Praying the Way with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John consists of 160 amazingly fresh prayers - 40 for each gospel - in which Scripture becomes the springboard for the soul. I know of no other prayer resource quite like it. I found these prayers not just stimulating and broadening, but also deeply challenging. This is a book not to be read - but to be used. I warmly commend it to anyone looking for a more authentic relationship with God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Beasley-Murray, 'Church Matters'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks has thought and written over many years about ways that the gospels can inspire and inform our praying. Now this mature collection of prayers draws on important texts from across the four gospels and from all around the themes of the Christian year. The primary tone is reflective, coming near to God in measured, thoughtful praise, and with deep confidence and hope. The language is both reverent and accessible, moving yet not complicated. These prayers would work very well in a church service, and would be equally helpful in a small house group or in private devotion. This book deserves to circulate widely, and I suspect that many copies will become well-worn in the course of the years. This is a resource to return to, time and again, for one's own faith and in the service of others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd John Proctor, General Secretary, The United Reformed Church\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks' thoughtful and useful prayers help us better understand the Jesus presented in each of the gospels. The book is very helpful for personal devotional use, but also an invaluable resource for leaders of worship.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndy Braunston, Coordinator of URC Daily Devotion Project\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry writes with freshness and honesty to all those who, like him, are trying to walk Christ's way. Like a seasoned traveller, he crafts prayers - inspired by the four gospels - that act as a way marker for his fellow travellers. I warmly commend this resource to enable us all to pray the way before turning back to the challenges that await us on the road.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Richard Church, Deputy General Secretary (Discipleship) of The United Reformed Church\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Praying the Way, Terry Hinks has developed his work around the four gospels into a thoughtful and accessible resource for prayer. He takes Jesus' life and relationship with his heavenly Father as a starting point for exploring our own life of prayer. This book, while primarily designed as an aid to personal devotion, will, I am sure, be a source of material for many worship leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Clare Downing, Moderator of the Wessex Synod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks is a United Reformed Church minister, serving churches in Hereford, Reading and Romsey before moving to two churches in the High Wycombe area. He served as Secretary to the URC Doctrine Prayer and Worship Committee and contributed the Order of Daily Worship to the URC's Service Book Worship. He is the author of a number of books on prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader website, 6 March 2019. Review by Laura Hillman.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis collection of prayers and meditations is firmly anchored in the four gospels. An introduction to each section highlights the characteristics of prayer in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The reader is invited to follow 'the way', a life based on prayer leading to action and changed attitudes. The author has obviously thought hard and long about the lessons to be learned and the strength to be gained from meditating on the scriptures. Each prayer is introduced by a sentence from the relevant gospel with a reference to the longer passage from which it is drawn. The language is refreshingly simple and direct with sparing and effective use of imagery. Although rooted in the Bible, the text has multiple references to life in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecentury. As well as being a springboard for personal prayer these readings will provide new insights for preachers and study group leaders looking for a fresh take on a well-known text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Laura Hillman\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.readers.cofe.anglican.org\/resources\"\u003ewww.readers.cofe.anglican.org\/resources\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine, Dec 2018-Jan2019, reviewed by John Proctor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTerry Hinks has thought and written over many years about ways in which the gospels can inspire and shape our praying. His long ministry, across four United Reformed Church pastorates, has certainly deepened and developed this work, and now he has provided us with a rich collection of mature prayers, drawing on important texts from across the four gospels and around the themes of the Christian year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePraying the Way \u003c\/em\u003econtains 160 prayers in all - 40 based on passages in each of the gospels. Most of them are short - between about 100 and 150 words in length - and, while Hinks has a recognisable mood and approach, there is definitely no single pattern of length, rhythm or style. The primary tone is reflective, drawing near to God in measured, thoughtful praise, with deep confidence and hope, yet often with searching humility too. The language is both reverent and accessible, often moving, never complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe prayers in \u003cem\u003ePraying the Way\u003c\/em\u003e would work well in church worship and could be equally helpful in a house group or for private use. They would connect most deeply with Christians who were reasonably familiar with the bibilcal material, and who were glad to have their thoughts taken to new places in their praying. Worship leaders will welcome the book, not least because the prayers relate so directly and obviously to scripture passages, many of which appear in the Revised Common Lectionary used in Sunday services.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA few sample snippets from the book with show the counterpoint of freshness and familiarity. The prayer based on Matthew 18:12-13 talks of 'sheep, ready to be counted, not to send us to sleep, but to waken us to your kingdom'. The one on Mark 2:1-12 says: 'Let us praise God for friends who carry us through the darkest of times'. The prayer for Luke 15:8-10 asks: 'Holy Spirit, sweep through the dust of my life'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book deserves to be widely known and well used, and many copies will surely become well-worn in the course of the years. This is a resource to return to, time and again, for one's own faith and in the service of others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Proctor is General Secretary of the United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This is a real treasure trove. Here are 40 readings and prayers for each of the 4 Gospels; 160 pages of wisdom, illumination, inspiration and motivation with helpful introductions and an Appendix suggesting ways in which these jewels can be made to sparkle. What is found here is not just the product of academic study but of rich pastoral experience in grass-roots ministry serving churches in Hereford, Reading, Romsey and High Wycombe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe value of these crisp reflections is that they can be used systematically to travel through the Gospels or they can be dipped into. They are also a valuable starting point for sermon preparation because of their pithy headings and the prayers which give further insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI warmly commend this creative devotional book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Tom Stuckey, a Former President of the Methodist Church in Britain\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, 16.01.19. Reviewed by Keith Parr\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself in a rather beautiful place in late October.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is this beautiful little Baptist church in beautiful Bunessan on the beautiful Isle of Mull in beautiful Scotland. Everything about it is, well beautiful! The people smile an outrageous amount, the weather is always clement (unless it's cold and raining which happens quite a lot) and the view from the pulpit... oh my, I could wax lyrical about the view from the pulpit for hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself in this beautiful place clutching this book I'd promised to review. I don't normally use much liturgy or many written prayers when I lead worship, but decided to take \u003cem\u003ePraying the Way\u003c\/em\u003e for a trial run this Sunday morning, knowing after the service I could ask all of the congregation if it helped or hindered their encounter with Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is how it works: Terry Hinks has written prayers around various passages in the four Gospels. As I was preaching on John 4:1-42 (Jesus and the woman at the well) after the reading, I used the prayer based on that passage. Leading the prayer felt a little odd, but that could be put down to my lack of practice with this form of praying. The congregation, though, all seemed to appreciate the structure and pauses (which I put in), especially because it related to the reading and the sermon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI probably wouldn't have purchased this, but it is the kind of book that I will know I can dip into if needs be. If your church uses liturgical language you will like this a lot. If you don't, then it isn't a bad idea to have these resources around, and this is not a bad place to start.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Keith Parr, the minister at Maghull Baptist Church north of Liverpool\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Praying the Way: with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
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{"id":14779549122940,"title":"How to Read the Bible... so that it makes a difference","handle":"how-to-read-the-bible-so-that-it-makes-a-difference-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTo read and engage with the Bible, we first need to understand the story, the styles of writing and the approaches we find in the text. Michael Parsons encourages readers to look at the whole biblical storyline before demonstrating ways of approaching individual texts. Topics along the way include understanding different genres, the importance of narrative, imaginative reading, praying the Bible, difficult passages and what to do with them, and how to apply scripture to our own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMichael Parsons is Minister for Discipleship at Lechlade Baptist Church and has previously been a theology lecturer in the UK and Australia, and commissioning editor for Paternoster and The Bible Reading Fellowship. He is the author of books on the Reformation and an Associate Research Fellow at Spurgeon’s College, London.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Michael Parsons is passionate about the Bible – and it shows! He is also passionate about helping people engage with the Bible in ways that draw them into personal and transformative encounters with the God revealed in its pages. This book is bursting with resources to help us understand what the Bible is, how to read and study it for ourselves, and how to know God better as we do so; it is a richly rewarded read!’\u003cbr\u003eMags Duggan, author and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, September 2020. Review by Veronica Bright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘We read scripture to hear God speak to us, to relate to us in and through Christ.’ The author emphasises engaging with the text, rather than merely reading it, and he sets out to explain and demonstrate how his readers may do this, in a number of different ways. He offers exercises at chapter ends, so that individuals or groups may further their experience of the topic presented. As a writer I found the chapter on poetic language interesting. We are so used to imagery in the novels we read now, but when the psalmist uses imagery, for example, it would probably have been the first time a phrase or word was used creatively. Parsons is an experienced minister and theology lecturer, and he writes clearly and encouragingly. Sometimes I feel he leads readers towards his own viewpoint, rather than guiding them to form their own. The concluding chapter in the book considers the reasons we want to be biblically literate. By the end I was conscious that behind each book in the Bible there is a writer, and beside each writer there is God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Veronica Bright\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTouchstone, the monthly newspaper of the Methodist Church of New Zealand, July 2020. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe intention of the book is to help readers who want to read the Bible with comprehension and application to life today. In this, it achieves its aim. Readers are invited to be prepared to think things through as they read and to try out the strategies the author suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is presented in four parts: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the foundation for reading the Bible today. Rather than every word being dictated by God, the Bible has come to us through human authors and editors all of whom were seeking to convey their experience of God as a presence in the midst of life. Through their words we may hear God speaking as one who addresses us in the life of our day. As we listen we discover that the Bible has a voice directed to us. God speaks to those who read the Bible in this way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecond, macro strategies: how to read the narratives. It may be argued that the major coordinates shaping the whole Bible are creation, the fall, redemption and the new creation. We are pulled into these narratives as we read and listen. The Bible does not give us definitive answers on issues such as divorce, nuclear war, use of the internet, gay rights or animal testing. As we engage with God’s word, however, we learn to respond in ways that are consistent with God’s character. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThird, micro strategies: how to read the text. This section includes a number of helpful exercises for reading imaginatively and reflectively. While we will find in the Bible expressions of God’s judgement the author stresses how we should always be looking for hints of God’s grace even if this means questioning a text as we read. Each of the ten chapters in part three ends with an exercise where readers are invited to put into practice the steps for reading specific texts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFour, things to take into account that will inform thoughtful engagement with the text. The chapters in this section also include practical exercises. The author directs attention to the words in the text, the writer’s emotions, the literary devices used by writers, how to regard long and tedious lists of names and details and the way the gospels present Jesus and invite us to respond to him within the context of our own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book ends by asking why read the Bible? In summary, reading the Bible is an essential aspect of worship, from the Bible we learn about the grace and mercy of God, especially of God’s love in Jesus Christ, it offers strength and hope for the most trying circumstances and inspires us to act with Spirit-filled justice and compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHow to Read the Bible \u003c\/em\u003epresents a scholarly approach in a non-threatening way. The practical exercises suggested are an invaluable resource for those who wish to improve their biblical literacy. It is especially recommended for group study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith, editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship the quarterly publication of the New Zealand Lay Preachers Association\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing a Minister for Discipleship at Lechlade Baptist Church, former theology lecturer both here and in Australia and former Commissioning Editor at BRF, Michael Parsons knows what he’s talking about. From rigorous analysis to comparing life as a Christian with shooting ‘the rapids’ at Centre Parcs, in this book he explores a heady mixture of practical, Biblical insights and academic theology in a readable, usable and at times challenging way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially considering what he calls ‘macro’ strategies of how to read and understand the Bible, he offers practical ways of exploring these for ourselves either alone or in groups. The book then moves from the academic to the practical by considering a variety of ‘micro’ strategies such as Ignatian imagination-based meditation and variations of \u003cem\u003electio divina\u003c\/em\u003e (spiritual reading) through to engaging with the narrative by focusing on specific sentences or verses and how that enriches our understanding - and how the Bible itself encourages us to ‘turn being in to doing’. Final sections consider the poetic language of the Bible, its use of rhetoric and repetition, and the more difficult and, to be frank, boring bits that these scriptures contain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Bible, then, is a post-fall witness to God’s revelation of himself, of his presence, intentions and historical activity,’ Michael Parsons writes. ‘The Bible is a continuing, written witness to how the Lord has revealed himself to the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘If the authors of the biblical books find it terribly difficult – nearly impossible – to describe the God who speaks to them, then on reading scripture we shouldn’t be dismayed that we sometimes can’t picture what they are saying to us. If they struggled with the original revelation, how much more will we with the imperfect representation of it?’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plethora of approaches to reading the Bible that are explored in this book is helpful and, lest it becomes overwhelming, each reader will need to determine for themselves which method may or may not work for them. Helpful to that is the way each chapter finishes with some suggestions about how to put the ‘strategy’ as Michael Parsons calls them, in to practice for oneself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to take one’s time over and the learning will be all the richer for that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\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\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:44:04+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:43:04+00:00","vendor":"Michael Parsons","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Group reading","Jan-20"],"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":53604769169788,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468109","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"How to Read the Bible... so that it makes a difference - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468109","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/283.png?v=1730980384","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/284.png?v=1730980324"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/283.png?v=1730980384","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001501401468,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/283.png?v=1730980384"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/283.png?v=1730980384","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486459260,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/284.png?v=1730980324"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/284.png?v=1730980324","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTo read and engage with the Bible, we first need to understand the story, the styles of writing and the approaches we find in the text. Michael Parsons encourages readers to look at the whole biblical storyline before demonstrating ways of approaching individual texts. Topics along the way include understanding different genres, the importance of narrative, imaginative reading, praying the Bible, difficult passages and what to do with them, and how to apply scripture to our own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMichael Parsons is Minister for Discipleship at Lechlade Baptist Church and has previously been a theology lecturer in the UK and Australia, and commissioning editor for Paternoster and The Bible Reading Fellowship. He is the author of books on the Reformation and an Associate Research Fellow at Spurgeon’s College, London.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Michael Parsons is passionate about the Bible – and it shows! He is also passionate about helping people engage with the Bible in ways that draw them into personal and transformative encounters with the God revealed in its pages. This book is bursting with resources to help us understand what the Bible is, how to read and study it for ourselves, and how to know God better as we do so; it is a richly rewarded read!’\u003cbr\u003eMags Duggan, author and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, September 2020. Review by Veronica Bright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘We read scripture to hear God speak to us, to relate to us in and through Christ.’ The author emphasises engaging with the text, rather than merely reading it, and he sets out to explain and demonstrate how his readers may do this, in a number of different ways. He offers exercises at chapter ends, so that individuals or groups may further their experience of the topic presented. As a writer I found the chapter on poetic language interesting. We are so used to imagery in the novels we read now, but when the psalmist uses imagery, for example, it would probably have been the first time a phrase or word was used creatively. Parsons is an experienced minister and theology lecturer, and he writes clearly and encouragingly. Sometimes I feel he leads readers towards his own viewpoint, rather than guiding them to form their own. The concluding chapter in the book considers the reasons we want to be biblically literate. By the end I was conscious that behind each book in the Bible there is a writer, and beside each writer there is God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Veronica Bright\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTouchstone, the monthly newspaper of the Methodist Church of New Zealand, July 2020. Review by John Meredith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe intention of the book is to help readers who want to read the Bible with comprehension and application to life today. In this, it achieves its aim. Readers are invited to be prepared to think things through as they read and to try out the strategies the author suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is presented in four parts: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, the foundation for reading the Bible today. Rather than every word being dictated by God, the Bible has come to us through human authors and editors all of whom were seeking to convey their experience of God as a presence in the midst of life. Through their words we may hear God speaking as one who addresses us in the life of our day. As we listen we discover that the Bible has a voice directed to us. God speaks to those who read the Bible in this way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecond, macro strategies: how to read the narratives. It may be argued that the major coordinates shaping the whole Bible are creation, the fall, redemption and the new creation. We are pulled into these narratives as we read and listen. The Bible does not give us definitive answers on issues such as divorce, nuclear war, use of the internet, gay rights or animal testing. As we engage with God’s word, however, we learn to respond in ways that are consistent with God’s character. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThird, micro strategies: how to read the text. This section includes a number of helpful exercises for reading imaginatively and reflectively. While we will find in the Bible expressions of God’s judgement the author stresses how we should always be looking for hints of God’s grace even if this means questioning a text as we read. Each of the ten chapters in part three ends with an exercise where readers are invited to put into practice the steps for reading specific texts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFour, things to take into account that will inform thoughtful engagement with the text. The chapters in this section also include practical exercises. The author directs attention to the words in the text, the writer’s emotions, the literary devices used by writers, how to regard long and tedious lists of names and details and the way the gospels present Jesus and invite us to respond to him within the context of our own lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book ends by asking why read the Bible? In summary, reading the Bible is an essential aspect of worship, from the Bible we learn about the grace and mercy of God, especially of God’s love in Jesus Christ, it offers strength and hope for the most trying circumstances and inspires us to act with Spirit-filled justice and compassion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHow to Read the Bible \u003c\/em\u003epresents a scholarly approach in a non-threatening way. The practical exercises suggested are an invaluable resource for those who wish to improve their biblical literacy. It is especially recommended for group study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by John Meredith, editor of Word \u0026amp; Worship the quarterly publication of the New Zealand Lay Preachers Association\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing a Minister for Discipleship at Lechlade Baptist Church, former theology lecturer both here and in Australia and former Commissioning Editor at BRF, Michael Parsons knows what he’s talking about. From rigorous analysis to comparing life as a Christian with shooting ‘the rapids’ at Centre Parcs, in this book he explores a heady mixture of practical, Biblical insights and academic theology in a readable, usable and at times challenging way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInitially considering what he calls ‘macro’ strategies of how to read and understand the Bible, he offers practical ways of exploring these for ourselves either alone or in groups. The book then moves from the academic to the practical by considering a variety of ‘micro’ strategies such as Ignatian imagination-based meditation and variations of \u003cem\u003electio divina\u003c\/em\u003e (spiritual reading) through to engaging with the narrative by focusing on specific sentences or verses and how that enriches our understanding - and how the Bible itself encourages us to ‘turn being in to doing’. Final sections consider the poetic language of the Bible, its use of rhetoric and repetition, and the more difficult and, to be frank, boring bits that these scriptures contain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Bible, then, is a post-fall witness to God’s revelation of himself, of his presence, intentions and historical activity,’ Michael Parsons writes. ‘The Bible is a continuing, written witness to how the Lord has revealed himself to the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘If the authors of the biblical books find it terribly difficult – nearly impossible – to describe the God who speaks to them, then on reading scripture we shouldn’t be dismayed that we sometimes can’t picture what they are saying to us. If they struggled with the original revelation, how much more will we with the imperfect representation of it?’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plethora of approaches to reading the Bible that are explored in this book is helpful and, lest it becomes overwhelming, each reader will need to determine for themselves which method may or may not work for them. Helpful to that is the way each chapter finishes with some suggestions about how to put the ‘strategy’ as Michael Parsons calls them, in to practice for oneself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book to take one’s time over and the learning will be all the richer for that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\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\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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How to Read the Bible... so that it makes a difference
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Digital eBook Only - To read and engage with the Bible, we first need to understand the story, the styles...
{"id":14779627635068,"title":"Really Useful Guides: John","handle":"really-useful-guides-john-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'John is my favourite book. Not just in the New Testament, nor even in the Bible. But my favourite book. Full stop. Over all the years of my conscious Christian life it has delighted me, puzzled me, comforted me and astonished me.' \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to John gives practical tips on how to open up this rich gospel. Robert Willoughby offers clear explanations of John’s signs, ‘I am’ sayings and recurring images, alongside unpacking its themes and significance. He shows how to read John with confidence, placing it in the context of the whole Bible and suggesting how it might be used practically for life today. Full of digestible wisdom and overflowing with enthusiasm, this book will ultimately draw you closer to Jesus.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRobert Willoughby taught New Testament and Political Theology at London School of Theology for over 30 years and more recently served as a priest in the Church of England. Able to communicate complex truths across all ages, his books include Children’s Guide to the Bible and So, Who Is God? His favourite book in the whole world was John’s Gospel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis little book is a new title in BRF’s ‘Really Useful Guides’ series. The books in this series are described as ‘not a commentary and not an introduction’. Taking about two hours to read, they are a valuable extra tool for acquiring general biblical literacy, understanding some of the more obscure passages in the scriptures, and help in using them to find messages for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobert Willoughby is a great enthusiast for John’s Gospel, believing that it has the best stories and the most memorable characters in the four gospels. He discusses different ideas about authorship and date and gives us a fascinating overview of the Gospel, which made revealing connections that were new to me. He has helpful comments to make about the problems of the difference in John’s Gospel from the synoptics, whose voice is being heard in the dialogues and accusations of anti-Semitism. His book ends with some hints on how to teach and preach John’s Gospel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese small books could be useful for preachers who want to dig deeper into the context or meaning of a passage and have more time than needed to read an ‘introduction’ but not enough time to read a whole commentary. They would also be useful to read or study together to increase biblical literacy among our congregations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T10:17:48+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:16:45+00:00","vendor":"Robert Willoughby","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Oct-19","Really Useful Guides"],"price":599,"price_min":599,"price_max":599,"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":53604808589692,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468277","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Really Useful Guides: John - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":599,"weight":104,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468277","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/287.png?v=1730980372","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/288.png?v=1730980324"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/287.png?v=1730980372","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001497665916,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/287.png?v=1730980372"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/287.png?v=1730980372","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486393724,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/288.png?v=1730980324"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/288.png?v=1730980324","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'John is my favourite book. Not just in the New Testament, nor even in the Bible. But my favourite book. Full stop. Over all the years of my conscious Christian life it has delighted me, puzzled me, comforted me and astonished me.' \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to John gives practical tips on how to open up this rich gospel. Robert Willoughby offers clear explanations of John’s signs, ‘I am’ sayings and recurring images, alongside unpacking its themes and significance. He shows how to read John with confidence, placing it in the context of the whole Bible and suggesting how it might be used practically for life today. Full of digestible wisdom and overflowing with enthusiasm, this book will ultimately draw you closer to Jesus.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRobert Willoughby taught New Testament and Political Theology at London School of Theology for over 30 years and more recently served as a priest in the Church of England. Able to communicate complex truths across all ages, his books include Children’s Guide to the Bible and So, Who Is God? His favourite book in the whole world was John’s Gospel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis little book is a new title in BRF’s ‘Really Useful Guides’ series. The books in this series are described as ‘not a commentary and not an introduction’. Taking about two hours to read, they are a valuable extra tool for acquiring general biblical literacy, understanding some of the more obscure passages in the scriptures, and help in using them to find messages for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRobert Willoughby is a great enthusiast for John’s Gospel, believing that it has the best stories and the most memorable characters in the four gospels. He discusses different ideas about authorship and date and gives us a fascinating overview of the Gospel, which made revealing connections that were new to me. He has helpful comments to make about the problems of the difference in John’s Gospel from the synoptics, whose voice is being heard in the dialogues and accusations of anti-Semitism. His book ends with some hints on how to teach and preach John’s Gospel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese small books could be useful for preachers who want to dig deeper into the context or meaning of a passage and have more time than needed to read an ‘introduction’ but not enough time to read a whole commentary. They would also be useful to read or study together to increase biblical literacy among our congregations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Really Useful Guides: John
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Digital eBook Only - 'John is my favourite book. Not just in the New Testament, nor even in the Bible....
{"id":14779635106172,"title":"Really Useful Guides: Genesis 1-11","handle":"really-useful-guides-genesis-1-12","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Each time you read a story you may gain a different perspective on it and discover new insights. Nowhere can you do this more than in Genesis 1—11, which in my view contains some of the most profound religious literature ever written.' \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Genesis 1—11 opens up afresh what can be a familiar text. In showing us how to engage with these stories, Rebecca S. Watson gives us background information about how, why and when Genesis was written, tips for reading and studying, and a summary of how Genesis 1—11 fits into the biblical story. Written in bite-sized chunks and full of jargon-free practical guidance, this book will give you more confidence to engage with the Bible and a greater understanding of the nature of God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRebecca S. Watson is a research associate at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion in Cambridge, and a tutor and director of studies at the Eastern Region Ministry Course, which trains people for ministry in the Church of England. She has worked in theological education and research throughout her career. She lives in Northamptonshire with her husband, their two children and two mad terriers.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a fantastic little book: it has a lovely accessible tone, exudes faith and still manages to pack a lot of teaching into it. I might want to argue a few points here or there but overall the author has given a sophisticated, nuanced reading that will challenge and help her readers extremely well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eElizabeth Harper, Lay Ministries Enabler for the Diocese of Bath and Wells\u003c\/em\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\u003cstrong\u003eScience \u0026amp; Christian Belief, Vol 33, No. 1. Review by Ivan Haigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Genesis 1 to 11 Really Useful Guide, by Rebecca S. Watson, is a delightful little book. It is little; it fits easily into the palm of a hand, back pocket of a pair of jeans, or top pocket of a shirt. I read the whole book in less than an hour. Yet despite its small size, it is a really charming book and I would readily recommend it to anyone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book. These small guides are not mean to be commentaries, instead they summarise the important aspects of the book in question in a jargon-free way, to aid reading and application. Their goal, as advertised, is to transform understanding of the biblical text, to help a reader engage with the message of the book in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you will have guessed by the title, this particular guide focuses on the first eleven chapters of Genesis, one of the most discussed and debated parts of the Bible. The book is laid out in nine chapters. The first six chapters are relatively short and briefly discuss: why we should read Genesis 1 to 11; what is Genesis 1 to 11; what does Genesis 1 to 11 say; how does Genesis 1 to 11 say it; where do these stories come from; and reading Genesis 1 to 11 today. In these chapters Rebecca keeps coming back to the importance of stories, which often inspire us, help us gain a different perspective and discover new insights, in a way that pure philosophy and science can’t.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough a series of stories, Genesis 1 to 11 explores profound questions about God and his commitment to the world. Rebecca points out that Genesis 1 to 11 performs a similar function to Rudyard Kipling’s Just so Stories, which provide a fun way of explaining why things are the way they are. The first eleven chapters in Genesis address some of the most important questions about life and existence, through narrative that puts God at the centre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters 1 to 6 are really an introduction to Chapter 7, which is the heart of the book. Chapter 7 makes up more than half of this little book and describes tips for reading this part of the Bible. It touches on the major stories: Creation; the Garden of Eden; Cain and Abel; the Genealogies and associated stories; the sons of God and daughters of men; the flood, sin, sacrifice, blessing and covenant; Noah’s drunkenness and the cursing of Ham; and lastly, the Tower of Babel. Rebecca takes the reader through each of these stories in turn and points out key themes. These themes are only touched on very briefly, but are handled in a thought-provoking way. Despite the fact that I have read these chapters of the Bible hundreds of times, on several occasions Rebecca’s book pointed out things I hadn’t considered before. This made me want to pick up my Bible straight away and read these passages again in a fresh way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe last two chapters briefly discuss Genesis 1 in 11 in relation to the rest of the Bible, and list 11 questions for reflection or discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many things I liked about this book. I particularly liked that Rebecca kept challenging me throughout to think about how the key themes in this first part of Genesis translate into our own context today. For example, she invited me to think carefully about whether the perpetually busyness of my life (and I am sure many of yours) is the best model for life, when you contrast it with God resting on the seventh day and encouraging his creation. I also liked that Rebecca encouraged me to momentarily step into the shoes of someone else in these stories and think, wonder and ask questions, even if we don’t always find clear-cut answers we can all agree on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first picked up this book, I thought initially that it would be geared towards new Christians, who were starting to read the Bible for the first time. However, having been a Christian for more than thirty-five years, I found the book very thoughtful and engaging to me personally. It has given me new insights and has encouraged me to read and mediate on these passages in fresh ways. The small size of the book makes it a perfect book to take away on holiday and read on a train or plane. It would also be a great book to read and discuss in groups, for example, as part of a church home or connect group. I also think this book would be good for non-Christians interested in understanding key themes in Genesis and the links between science and Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Ivan Haigh is an Associate Professor in coastal oceanography at the University of Southampton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, April 2020. Review by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis little book is a new title in BRF’s ‘Really Useful Guides’ series. The books in this series are described as ‘not a commentary and not an introduction’. Taking about two hours to read, they are a valuable extra tool for acquiring general biblical literacy, understanding some of the more obscure passages in the scriptures, and help in using them to find messages for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn her book on Genesis 1-11, Rebecca S Watson discusses different ideas about where these ancient stories could have come from, different influences that might have shaped them, and how and when they might have been put together in their present form. Believing that these old stories explore profound questions about God, humanity, creation and sin, she tackles some of the problems they raise and leads us to helpful ways of approaching and applying them. The book ends with some questions for reflection or discussion which could be useful for Bible study groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e These small books could be useful for preachers who want to dig deeper into the context or meaning of a passage and have more time than needed to read an ‘introduction’ but not enough time to read a whole commentary. They would also be useful to read or study together to increase biblical literacy among our congregations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr Hywel Clifford, Lecturer in Old Testament, Ripon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a stylish guide to Genesis 1-11. After considering what it might mean to approach these biblical chapters as readers today, Rebecca Watson provides numerous tips about their sections, episodes, and details, in their interwoven literary sequence. To write freshly on Creation, Flood, and Babel is no easy task, but this is done elegantly and engagingly, with both traditional and modern insights and applications offered about sacred texts which are so significant, and, of course, so memorable. Here you will find a tasty entrée for making rich sense of the feast that is the opening of Genesis, that great book of beginnings about the world and the human family in which we all have a role to play. Some questions for reflection and discussion bring this informative guide to a close.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDr Hywel Clifford, Lecturer in Old Testament, Ripon College Cuddesdon \u0026amp; Member of the Faculty of Theology and Religion, Oxford University.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T10:21:18+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:20:15+00:00","vendor":"Rebecca S. Watson","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Oct-19","Really Useful Guides"],"price":599,"price_min":599,"price_max":599,"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":53604811833724,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468284","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Really Useful Guides: Genesis 1-11 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":599,"weight":104,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468284","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/289.png?v=1730980371","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/290.png?v=1730980337"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/289.png?v=1730980371","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001497174396,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/289.png?v=1730980371"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/289.png?v=1730980371","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001489736060,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/290.png?v=1730980337"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/290.png?v=1730980337","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Each time you read a story you may gain a different perspective on it and discover new insights. Nowhere can you do this more than in Genesis 1—11, which in my view contains some of the most profound religious literature ever written.' \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Genesis 1—11 opens up afresh what can be a familiar text. In showing us how to engage with these stories, Rebecca S. Watson gives us background information about how, why and when Genesis was written, tips for reading and studying, and a summary of how Genesis 1—11 fits into the biblical story. Written in bite-sized chunks and full of jargon-free practical guidance, this book will give you more confidence to engage with the Bible and a greater understanding of the nature of God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRebecca S. Watson is a research associate at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion in Cambridge, and a tutor and director of studies at the Eastern Region Ministry Course, which trains people for ministry in the Church of England. She has worked in theological education and research throughout her career. She lives in Northamptonshire with her husband, their two children and two mad terriers.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a fantastic little book: it has a lovely accessible tone, exudes faith and still manages to pack a lot of teaching into it. I might want to argue a few points here or there but overall the author has given a sophisticated, nuanced reading that will challenge and help her readers extremely well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eElizabeth Harper, Lay Ministries Enabler for the Diocese of Bath and Wells\u003c\/em\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\u003cstrong\u003eScience \u0026amp; Christian Belief, Vol 33, No. 1. Review by Ivan Haigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Genesis 1 to 11 Really Useful Guide, by Rebecca S. Watson, is a delightful little book. It is little; it fits easily into the palm of a hand, back pocket of a pair of jeans, or top pocket of a shirt. I read the whole book in less than an hour. Yet despite its small size, it is a really charming book and I would readily recommend it to anyone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book. These small guides are not mean to be commentaries, instead they summarise the important aspects of the book in question in a jargon-free way, to aid reading and application. Their goal, as advertised, is to transform understanding of the biblical text, to help a reader engage with the message of the book in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you will have guessed by the title, this particular guide focuses on the first eleven chapters of Genesis, one of the most discussed and debated parts of the Bible. The book is laid out in nine chapters. The first six chapters are relatively short and briefly discuss: why we should read Genesis 1 to 11; what is Genesis 1 to 11; what does Genesis 1 to 11 say; how does Genesis 1 to 11 say it; where do these stories come from; and reading Genesis 1 to 11 today. In these chapters Rebecca keeps coming back to the importance of stories, which often inspire us, help us gain a different perspective and discover new insights, in a way that pure philosophy and science can’t.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough a series of stories, Genesis 1 to 11 explores profound questions about God and his commitment to the world. Rebecca points out that Genesis 1 to 11 performs a similar function to Rudyard Kipling’s Just so Stories, which provide a fun way of explaining why things are the way they are. The first eleven chapters in Genesis address some of the most important questions about life and existence, through narrative that puts God at the centre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters 1 to 6 are really an introduction to Chapter 7, which is the heart of the book. Chapter 7 makes up more than half of this little book and describes tips for reading this part of the Bible. It touches on the major stories: Creation; the Garden of Eden; Cain and Abel; the Genealogies and associated stories; the sons of God and daughters of men; the flood, sin, sacrifice, blessing and covenant; Noah’s drunkenness and the cursing of Ham; and lastly, the Tower of Babel. Rebecca takes the reader through each of these stories in turn and points out key themes. These themes are only touched on very briefly, but are handled in a thought-provoking way. Despite the fact that I have read these chapters of the Bible hundreds of times, on several occasions Rebecca’s book pointed out things I hadn’t considered before. This made me want to pick up my Bible straight away and read these passages again in a fresh way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe last two chapters briefly discuss Genesis 1 in 11 in relation to the rest of the Bible, and list 11 questions for reflection or discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many things I liked about this book. I particularly liked that Rebecca kept challenging me throughout to think about how the key themes in this first part of Genesis translate into our own context today. For example, she invited me to think carefully about whether the perpetually busyness of my life (and I am sure many of yours) is the best model for life, when you contrast it with God resting on the seventh day and encouraging his creation. I also liked that Rebecca encouraged me to momentarily step into the shoes of someone else in these stories and think, wonder and ask questions, even if we don’t always find clear-cut answers we can all agree on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first picked up this book, I thought initially that it would be geared towards new Christians, who were starting to read the Bible for the first time. However, having been a Christian for more than thirty-five years, I found the book very thoughtful and engaging to me personally. It has given me new insights and has encouraged me to read and mediate on these passages in fresh ways. The small size of the book makes it a perfect book to take away on holiday and read on a train or plane. It would also be a great book to read and discuss in groups, for example, as part of a church home or connect group. I also think this book would be good for non-Christians interested in understanding key themes in Genesis and the links between science and Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDr Ivan Haigh is an Associate Professor in coastal oceanography at the University of Southampton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, April 2020. Review by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis little book is a new title in BRF’s ‘Really Useful Guides’ series. The books in this series are described as ‘not a commentary and not an introduction’. Taking about two hours to read, they are a valuable extra tool for acquiring general biblical literacy, understanding some of the more obscure passages in the scriptures, and help in using them to find messages for today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn her book on Genesis 1-11, Rebecca S Watson discusses different ideas about where these ancient stories could have come from, different influences that might have shaped them, and how and when they might have been put together in their present form. Believing that these old stories explore profound questions about God, humanity, creation and sin, she tackles some of the problems they raise and leads us to helpful ways of approaching and applying them. The book ends with some questions for reflection or discussion which could be useful for Bible study groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e These small books could be useful for preachers who want to dig deeper into the context or meaning of a passage and have more time than needed to read an ‘introduction’ but not enough time to read a whole commentary. They would also be useful to read or study together to increase biblical literacy among our congregations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Dr Hywel Clifford, Lecturer in Old Testament, Ripon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a stylish guide to Genesis 1-11. After considering what it might mean to approach these biblical chapters as readers today, Rebecca Watson provides numerous tips about their sections, episodes, and details, in their interwoven literary sequence. To write freshly on Creation, Flood, and Babel is no easy task, but this is done elegantly and engagingly, with both traditional and modern insights and applications offered about sacred texts which are so significant, and, of course, so memorable. Here you will find a tasty entrée for making rich sense of the feast that is the opening of Genesis, that great book of beginnings about the world and the human family in which we all have a role to play. Some questions for reflection and discussion bring this informative guide to a close.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDr Hywel Clifford, Lecturer in Old Testament, Ripon College Cuddesdon \u0026amp; Member of the Faculty of Theology and Religion, Oxford University.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Really Useful Guides: Genesis 1-11
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{"id":14779650441596,"title":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel","handle":"peters-preaching-the-message-of-marks-gospel-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel? At 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":"2024-10-30T10:28:42+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:26:36+00:00","vendor":"Jeremy Duff","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Jun-15"],"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":53604819501436,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857463517","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":211,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857463517","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/293.png?v=1730980353","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/294.png?v=1730980253"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/293.png?v=1730980353","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001493242236,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/293.png?v=1730980353"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/293.png?v=1730980353","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001470927228,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/294.png?v=1730980253"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/294.png?v=1730980253","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDo you know who wrote Mark's Gospel? At 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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Peter's Preaching: The message of Mark's Gospel
£9.99
Digital eBook Only - Do you know who wrote Mark's Gospel? At first glance, it may seem a ridiculous question. 'Mark,...
{"id":14779701690748,"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-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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":"2024-10-30T10:48:31+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:47:38+00:00","vendor":"David Potter","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Jul-18","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":53604845846908,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466341","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":189,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466341","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/303.png?v=1730980306","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/304.png?v=1730980344"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/303.png?v=1730980306","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001482985852,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/303.png?v=1730980306"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/303.png?v=1730980306","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001491308924,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/304.png?v=1730980344"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/304.png?v=1730980344","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\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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Is Your God Too Small?: Enlarging our vision in the face of life's struggles
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{"id":14779725545852,"title":"Really Useful Guides: Colossians and Philemon","handle":"really-useful-guides-colossians-and-philemon-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Colossians and Philemon will transform understanding of the biblical text, and will help you to engage with the message in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe series is edited by Simon Stocks and Derek Tidball.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is special about the 'Really Useful Guides'?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are laid out in an easy-to-read format, with less text on the page and plenty of headings, bulleted lists, bold type and diagrams where helpful. Despite this they are not patronising, and do not hide away from engaging with difficult bits of the book. While reading them straight through would probably be the most helpful, they can certainly be dipped into as well, with some sections that people might like to come back to more than once. Similarly, they can be read 'straight' or side-by-side with the biblical text; a slower, more engaged read will probably be more helpful but a reader who didn't do this would still find plenty to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times e-newsletter 1 February 2019.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Pieter J. Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its new series of Really Useful Guides, the Bible Reading Fellowship follows the trend towards smaller and shorter books. So far in this series the volumes on the Psalms and on Colossians have appeared, written by the series' editors, Stocks and Tidball, respectively. The books are tiny (4 by 6 inches) but sturdy and the contents are fine, so they should not for that reason be looked down on. If you are uncertain what to give to a Christian friend, books like these make nice little presents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStocks does indeed offer a 'very useful guide' of over 100 pages. Writing with obvious love for the Psalms, he explains many aspects briefly yet clearly, and in a personal style. Whereas he is aware of the gap which separates us from these old songs, he points to many bridges across it. After a brief introduction, the second chapter covers introductory issues such as composition and authorship. Chapter 3 gives a brief theology of the Psalms (what they say about God) and chapter 4 focuses on how they say it (the stAyle and the imagery).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe very brief chapter 5 surveys the relevant part of the history of Israel and chapter 6 gives suggestions for reading psalms today. Chapters 7 and 8 look at some unknown psalms in more detail. The final page contains questions for discussion but there are no suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Colossians and Philemon guide, our fellow Baptist Derek Tidball takes some 70 pages to introduce us to Colossians, but less than 15 for Philemon. Yet in these few pages he manages to get across key elements of Philemon and its lasting value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe treatment of Colossians is more traditional than that of the Psalms: it largely consists of Tidball making his way through the letter, commenting on backgrounds and contents along the way. Like Stocks, he uses bullet points and he prints the key Scripture verses in his text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA separate chapter compares Colossians to other parts of the New Testament. In addition to some questions, suggestions for further reading are included. My one query is that slightly divergent outlines of Colossians are presented on pages 27, 28-29, and in what follows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd. Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches the Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T10:58:17+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:57:25+00:00","vendor":"Derek Tidball","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Oct-18","Really Useful Guides"],"price":599,"price_min":599,"price_max":599,"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":53604863312252,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467324","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Really Useful Guides: Colossians and Philemon - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":599,"weight":91,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467324","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/309.png?v=1730980370","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/310.png?v=1730980363"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/309.png?v=1730980370","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001497502076,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/309.png?v=1730980370"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/309.png?v=1730980370","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001495568764,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/310.png?v=1730980363"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/310.png?v=1730980363","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Colossians and Philemon will transform understanding of the biblical text, and will help you to engage with the message in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe series is edited by Simon Stocks and Derek Tidball.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is special about the 'Really Useful Guides'?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are laid out in an easy-to-read format, with less text on the page and plenty of headings, bulleted lists, bold type and diagrams where helpful. Despite this they are not patronising, and do not hide away from engaging with difficult bits of the book. While reading them straight through would probably be the most helpful, they can certainly be dipped into as well, with some sections that people might like to come back to more than once. Similarly, they can be read 'straight' or side-by-side with the biblical text; a slower, more engaged read will probably be more helpful but a reader who didn't do this would still find plenty to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times e-newsletter 1 February 2019.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Pieter J. Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its new series of Really Useful Guides, the Bible Reading Fellowship follows the trend towards smaller and shorter books. So far in this series the volumes on the Psalms and on Colossians have appeared, written by the series' editors, Stocks and Tidball, respectively. The books are tiny (4 by 6 inches) but sturdy and the contents are fine, so they should not for that reason be looked down on. If you are uncertain what to give to a Christian friend, books like these make nice little presents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStocks does indeed offer a 'very useful guide' of over 100 pages. Writing with obvious love for the Psalms, he explains many aspects briefly yet clearly, and in a personal style. Whereas he is aware of the gap which separates us from these old songs, he points to many bridges across it. After a brief introduction, the second chapter covers introductory issues such as composition and authorship. Chapter 3 gives a brief theology of the Psalms (what they say about God) and chapter 4 focuses on how they say it (the stAyle and the imagery).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe very brief chapter 5 surveys the relevant part of the history of Israel and chapter 6 gives suggestions for reading psalms today. Chapters 7 and 8 look at some unknown psalms in more detail. The final page contains questions for discussion but there are no suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Colossians and Philemon guide, our fellow Baptist Derek Tidball takes some 70 pages to introduce us to Colossians, but less than 15 for Philemon. Yet in these few pages he manages to get across key elements of Philemon and its lasting value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe treatment of Colossians is more traditional than that of the Psalms: it largely consists of Tidball making his way through the letter, commenting on backgrounds and contents along the way. Like Stocks, he uses bullet points and he prints the key Scripture verses in his text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA separate chapter compares Colossians to other parts of the New Testament. In addition to some questions, suggestions for further reading are included. My one query is that slightly divergent outlines of Colossians are presented on pages 27, 28-29, and in what follows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd. Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches the Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Really Useful Guides: Colossians and Philemon
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{"id":14779728822652,"title":"Really Useful Guides: Psalms","handle":"really-useful-guides-psalms-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Psalms will transform understanding of the biblical text, and will help you to engage with the message in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is special about the 'Really Useful Guides'?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are laid out in an easy-to-read format, with less text on the page and plenty of headings, bulleted lists, bold type and diagrams where helpful. Despite this they are not patronising, and do not hide away from engaging with difficult bits of the book. While reading them straight through would probably be the most helpful, they can certainly be dipped into as well, with some sections that people might like to come back to more than once. Similarly, they can be read 'straight' or side-by-side with the biblical text; a slower, more engaged read will probably be more helpful but a reader who didn't do this would still find plenty to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Elizabeth Hogg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is small in size, but substantial in content – 111 pages filled with important ideas and helpful insights. It is part of the BRF ‘Really Useful Guides’ series, and this designation is most apt. Stocks has written for a wide audience, including those with little previous knowledge of the psalms, but those who have used them daily for many years will nonetheless find much that is new and fascinating. He is especially strong on the poetic imagery of the psalms, and how these relate to the context of life in ancient Israel. I was also impressed by the way the author is not afraid to address the difficult questions posed by the so-called ‘vengeful’ psalms, including the seldom used Psalm 58. While some of these may never become favourites, the ideas described will open our minds to wider issues, including the overriding need for justice. This book will help readers to pray the psalms with new hearts, and greater dedication, and is strongly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Elizabeth Hogg\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times e-newsletter 1 February 2019.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Pieter J. Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its new series of Really Useful Guides, the Bible Reading Fellowship follows the trend towards smaller and shorter books. So far in this series the volumes on the Psalms and on Colossians have appeared, written by the series' editors, Stocks and Tidball, respectively. The books are tiny (4 by 6 inches) but sturdy and the contents are fine, so they should not for that reason be looked down on. If you are uncertain what to give to a Christian friend, books like these make nice little presents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStocks does indeed offer a 'very useful guide' of over 100 pages. Writing with obvious love for the Psalms, he explains many aspects briefly yet clearly, and in a personal style. Whereas he is aware of the gap which separates us from these old songs, he points to many bridges across it. After a brief introduction, the second chapter covers introductory issues such as composition and authorship. Chapter 3 gives a brief theology of the Psalms (what they say about God) and chapter 4 focuses on how they say it (the stAyle and the imagery).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe very brief chapter 5 surveys the relevant part of the history of Israel and chapter 6 gives suggestions for reading psalms today. Chapters 7 and 8 look at some unknown psalms in more detail. The final page contains questions for discussion but there are no suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Colossians and Philemon guide, our fellow Baptist Derek Tidball takes some 70 pages to introduce us to Colossians, but less than 15 for Philemon. Yet in these few pages he manages to get across key elements of Philemon and its lasting value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe treatment of Colossians is more traditional than that of the Psalms: it largely consists of Tidball making his way through the letter, commenting on backgrounds and contents along the way. Like Stocks, he uses bullet points and he prints the key Scripture verses in his text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA separate chapter compares Colossians to other parts of the New Testament. In addition to some questions, suggestions for further reading are included. My one query is that slightly divergent outlines of Colossians are presented on pages 27, 28-29, and in what follows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd. Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches the Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on Picking Apples of Gold, Jules Middleton's blog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI've been asked to review this new guide to the psalms, the first Old Testament title in a series of 'Really Useful Guides' from the Bible Reading Fellowship. The series hopes to provide compact accessible guides to books of the bible, enhancing biblical literacy with a simple, unintimidating, but authoritative overview of each text. Sounds like my kind of books! I do get frustrated when theologians use lots of long words and endlessly long sentences when a few simple words would do, it can make subjects so inaccessible. Simon P Stocks 'Psalms' is exactly as intended, easy to understand but at the same time, bringing the psalms alive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Psalter is a funny book in the bible, a bit like marmite, you either love 'em or hate 'em, perhaps because for many of us, as Stocks himself found, he didn't at first 'get' them. Filled with a rollercoaster of emotion, the psalms can be hard to decipher but Stocks seeks to explain the difficult bits, address common misconceptions, show the reader how they can incorporate psalms into their own lives \u0026amp; suggests that they need to be 'experienced and felt'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf 8 chapters, the first 5 ask questions to explore the topic: Why read the psalms? What is the Book of Psalms? What do the psalms say? How do they say it? What was going on at the time? In these, Stocks uses themes to delve deeper into the psalms. He explains particular terms, gives good tips and helpful facts but without overloading the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the final few chapters are focussed on reading the psalms today and how that can help us, in fact the book is filled with helpful pointers for us to use the psalms in every day life, how the psalms can encourage us when we are discouraged by the world around us and the importance of lament in refocusing our perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticularly helpful I found, is the explanation of the style of writing, which helps to clarify some difficult areas and explains the Hebrew poetic style, again with simplicity. Similarly the author points out key metaphors of imagery and symbolism, and the need to understand the context in which a psalm was written and in how we use them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt just 112 pages long, this is a quick and easy read, but one that you can delve into deeper if you wish. Stocks includes suggestions of psalms to read, asks questions for the reader to consider and reflect upon, and points out circumstances in which we might find a psalm helpful. The guide is aimed in general at Christian readers, as well as home group leaders, lay leaders and anyone who just wants to know a bit more about the psalms, and it really is accessible enough to be read by anyone, and interesting enough to keep you focussed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/book-review-psalms-by-simon-stocks\/\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/book-review-psalms-by-simon-stocks\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very accessible book, laid out in an easy-to-read format. The author manages to pack in a lot of information in a short space and to teach the nuts and bolts without being patronising and without shying away from the difficult bits. I commend it to you as a genuinely useful guide to the Psalms. You should find plenty to learn. \u003cbr\u003eThomas Renz\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\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T10:59:34+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T10:58:59+00:00","vendor":"Simon Stocks","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Oct-18","Really Useful Guides"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"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":53604864655740,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467331","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Really Useful Guides: Psalms - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":104,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467331","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/psalms_ebook_cover.png?v=1731086762","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/312.png?v=1730980395"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/psalms_ebook_cover.png?v=1731086762","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63009271120252,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/psalms_ebook_cover.png?v=1731086762"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/psalms_ebook_cover.png?v=1731086762","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001504186748,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/312.png?v=1730980395"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/312.png?v=1730980395","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Psalms will transform understanding of the biblical text, and will help you to engage with the message in new ways today, giving confidence in the Bible and increasing faith in God.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is special about the 'Really Useful Guides'?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are laid out in an easy-to-read format, with less text on the page and plenty of headings, bulleted lists, bold type and diagrams where helpful. Despite this they are not patronising, and do not hide away from engaging with difficult bits of the book. While reading them straight through would probably be the most helpful, they can certainly be dipped into as well, with some sections that people might like to come back to more than once. Similarly, they can be read 'straight' or side-by-side with the biblical text; a slower, more engaged read will probably be more helpful but a reader who didn't do this would still find plenty to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Elizabeth Hogg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is small in size, but substantial in content – 111 pages filled with important ideas and helpful insights. It is part of the BRF ‘Really Useful Guides’ series, and this designation is most apt. Stocks has written for a wide audience, including those with little previous knowledge of the psalms, but those who have used them daily for many years will nonetheless find much that is new and fascinating. He is especially strong on the poetic imagery of the psalms, and how these relate to the context of life in ancient Israel. I was also impressed by the way the author is not afraid to address the difficult questions posed by the so-called ‘vengeful’ psalms, including the seldom used Psalm 58. While some of these may never become favourites, the ideas described will open our minds to wider issues, including the overriding need for justice. This book will help readers to pray the psalms with new hearts, and greater dedication, and is strongly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Elizabeth Hogg\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times e-newsletter 1 February 2019.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Pieter J. Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith its new series of Really Useful Guides, the Bible Reading Fellowship follows the trend towards smaller and shorter books. So far in this series the volumes on the Psalms and on Colossians have appeared, written by the series' editors, Stocks and Tidball, respectively. The books are tiny (4 by 6 inches) but sturdy and the contents are fine, so they should not for that reason be looked down on. If you are uncertain what to give to a Christian friend, books like these make nice little presents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStocks does indeed offer a 'very useful guide' of over 100 pages. Writing with obvious love for the Psalms, he explains many aspects briefly yet clearly, and in a personal style. Whereas he is aware of the gap which separates us from these old songs, he points to many bridges across it. After a brief introduction, the second chapter covers introductory issues such as composition and authorship. Chapter 3 gives a brief theology of the Psalms (what they say about God) and chapter 4 focuses on how they say it (the stAyle and the imagery).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe very brief chapter 5 surveys the relevant part of the history of Israel and chapter 6 gives suggestions for reading psalms today. Chapters 7 and 8 look at some unknown psalms in more detail. The final page contains questions for discussion but there are no suggestions for further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Colossians and Philemon guide, our fellow Baptist Derek Tidball takes some 70 pages to introduce us to Colossians, but less than 15 for Philemon. Yet in these few pages he manages to get across key elements of Philemon and its lasting value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe treatment of Colossians is more traditional than that of the Psalms: it largely consists of Tidball making his way through the letter, commenting on backgrounds and contents along the way. Like Stocks, he uses bullet points and he prints the key Scripture verses in his text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA separate chapter compares Colossians to other parts of the New Testament. In addition to some questions, suggestions for further reading are included. My one query is that slightly divergent outlines of Colossians are presented on pages 27, 28-29, and in what follows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd. Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches the Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on Picking Apples of Gold, Jules Middleton's blog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI've been asked to review this new guide to the psalms, the first Old Testament title in a series of 'Really Useful Guides' from the Bible Reading Fellowship. The series hopes to provide compact accessible guides to books of the bible, enhancing biblical literacy with a simple, unintimidating, but authoritative overview of each text. Sounds like my kind of books! I do get frustrated when theologians use lots of long words and endlessly long sentences when a few simple words would do, it can make subjects so inaccessible. Simon P Stocks 'Psalms' is exactly as intended, easy to understand but at the same time, bringing the psalms alive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Psalter is a funny book in the bible, a bit like marmite, you either love 'em or hate 'em, perhaps because for many of us, as Stocks himself found, he didn't at first 'get' them. Filled with a rollercoaster of emotion, the psalms can be hard to decipher but Stocks seeks to explain the difficult bits, address common misconceptions, show the reader how they can incorporate psalms into their own lives \u0026amp; suggests that they need to be 'experienced and felt'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf 8 chapters, the first 5 ask questions to explore the topic: Why read the psalms? What is the Book of Psalms? What do the psalms say? How do they say it? What was going on at the time? In these, Stocks uses themes to delve deeper into the psalms. He explains particular terms, gives good tips and helpful facts but without overloading the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the final few chapters are focussed on reading the psalms today and how that can help us, in fact the book is filled with helpful pointers for us to use the psalms in every day life, how the psalms can encourage us when we are discouraged by the world around us and the importance of lament in refocusing our perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticularly helpful I found, is the explanation of the style of writing, which helps to clarify some difficult areas and explains the Hebrew poetic style, again with simplicity. Similarly the author points out key metaphors of imagery and symbolism, and the need to understand the context in which a psalm was written and in how we use them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt just 112 pages long, this is a quick and easy read, but one that you can delve into deeper if you wish. Stocks includes suggestions of psalms to read, asks questions for the reader to consider and reflect upon, and points out circumstances in which we might find a psalm helpful. The guide is aimed in general at Christian readers, as well as home group leaders, lay leaders and anyone who just wants to know a bit more about the psalms, and it really is accessible enough to be read by anyone, and interesting enough to keep you focussed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/book-review-psalms-by-simon-stocks\/\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/book-review-psalms-by-simon-stocks\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very accessible book, laid out in an easy-to-read format. The author manages to pack in a lot of information in a short space and to teach the nuts and bolts without being patronising and without shying away from the difficult bits. I commend it to you as a genuinely useful guide to the Psalms. You should find plenty to learn. \u003cbr\u003eThomas Renz\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\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Really Useful Guides: Psalms
£6.99
Digital eBook Only - This Really Useful Guide to Psalms will transform understanding of the biblical text, and will help...
{"id":14779733574012,"title":"Really Useful Guides: Genesis 12-50","handle":"really-useful-guides-genesis-12-50","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA guide to the great big family drama that takes up most of the first book of our Bibles. How can you read it wisely, and know what to look out for? \u003c\/em\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Genesis 12—50 unpacks the fascinating family stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. Richard S. Briggs takes us on a tour of these characters’ lives, suggesting different ways of approaching the stories to draw out different facets and looking at how God can be found throughout. With a discussion of the historical background of Genesis and a detailed look at a few key passages, this book will increase your biblical knowledge and make you more aware of God’s presence in everyday life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Richard S. Briggs is a lecturer in Old Testament and director of biblical studies at Cranmer Hall, St John's College, Durham. He also currently serves as associate minister in two local parishes in County Durham.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Autumn 2022. Review by Peter Wright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished in the BRF Really Useful Guides series, this pocket-sized book is a little gem. Recognising the distinct change of focus and pace with which Chapter 12 of Genesis begins, it concentrates on the extended family drama that distinguishes the remainder of Genesis. In an engrossing tour of the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and his brothers, Briggs has written not a standard introduction, nor even a conventional commentary, but an accessible, engaging and entertaining guide as to how to read the text wisely. In presenting the drama and the stories of Genesis effectively as a book in itself, Briggs deftly discusses its literary, historical and theological facets, and looks in detail at some key passages. He also shows how an informed reading of the text can increase the reader’s awareness of the presence of God in everyday life. A lecturer in Old Testament and director of biblical studies at St. John’s College, Durham, Briggs is clearly a gifted teacher. He has skilfully packed much into this short book. This truly is a really useful guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Peter Wright \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T11:01:37+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T11:00:47+00:00","vendor":"Richard S. Briggs","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Centenary","Feb-22","Glassboxx","Really Useful Guides"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"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":53604866261372,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468208","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Really Useful Guides: Genesis 12-50 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468208","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/313.png?v=1730980397","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/314.png?v=1730980392"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/313.png?v=1730980397","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001504383356,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/313.png?v=1730980397"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/313.png?v=1730980397","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001503236476,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/314.png?v=1730980392"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/314.png?v=1730980392","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA guide to the great big family drama that takes up most of the first book of our Bibles. How can you read it wisely, and know what to look out for? \u003c\/em\u003eThis Really Useful Guide to Genesis 12—50 unpacks the fascinating family stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. Richard S. Briggs takes us on a tour of these characters’ lives, suggesting different ways of approaching the stories to draw out different facets and looking at how God can be found throughout. With a discussion of the historical background of Genesis and a detailed look at a few key passages, this book will increase your biblical knowledge and make you more aware of God’s presence in everyday life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEach Really Useful Guide focuses on a specific biblical book, making it come to life for the reader, enabling them to understand the message and to apply its truth to today’s circumstances. Though not a commentary, it gives valuable insight into the book’s message and context. Though not an introduction, it summarises the important aspects of the book to aid reading and application. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Richard S. Briggs is a lecturer in Old Testament and director of biblical studies at Cranmer Hall, St John's College, Durham. He also currently serves as associate minister in two local parishes in County Durham.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Autumn 2022. Review by Peter Wright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished in the BRF Really Useful Guides series, this pocket-sized book is a little gem. Recognising the distinct change of focus and pace with which Chapter 12 of Genesis begins, it concentrates on the extended family drama that distinguishes the remainder of Genesis. In an engrossing tour of the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and his brothers, Briggs has written not a standard introduction, nor even a conventional commentary, but an accessible, engaging and entertaining guide as to how to read the text wisely. In presenting the drama and the stories of Genesis effectively as a book in itself, Briggs deftly discusses its literary, historical and theological facets, and looks in detail at some key passages. He also shows how an informed reading of the text can increase the reader’s awareness of the presence of God in everyday life. A lecturer in Old Testament and director of biblical studies at St. John’s College, Durham, Briggs is clearly a gifted teacher. He has skilfully packed much into this short book. This truly is a really useful guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Peter Wright \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Really Useful Guides: Genesis 12-50
£6.99
Digital eBook Only - A guide to the great big family drama that takes up most of the first book...
{"id":14779752022396,"title":"At Home and Out and About","handle":"at-home-and-out-and-about-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAcross 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":"2024-10-30T11:09:59+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T11:09:05+00:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","Glassboxx","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":53604873666940,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391161","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"At Home and Out and About - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":219,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391161","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/at_home_and_out_and_about_eBook_cover.png?v=1731059513","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/326.png?v=1730980369"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/at_home_and_out_and_about_eBook_cover.png?v=1731059513","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63006711382396,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/at_home_and_out_and_about_eBook_cover.png?v=1731059513"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/at_home_and_out_and_about_eBook_cover.png?v=1731059513","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001497076092,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/326.png?v=1730980369"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/326.png?v=1730980369","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAcross 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"}
You may also like:
At Home and Out and About
£9.99
Digital eBook Only - Across a year’s worth of weekly reflections, Gordon Giles focuses on objects, scenes, activities and places,...
{"id":14779784888700,"title":"The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home","handle":"the-recovery-of-joy-finding-the-path-from-rootlessness-to-returning-home-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God at our right hand, step by step in the radiant light of his presence. It involves remembering that we have already arrived at our destination - the safety of our Father's house - even as we continue on the pilgrim road that takes us through life.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Recovery of Joy weaves imaginative story and profound biblical reflections on several of the Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to. The narrative begins in rootlessness and despair and takes a wanderer across the sea to a series of islands. These are the setting for a series of events and encounters through which emerges a progression from that initial rootlessness, through healing, to a rediscovery of the joy of feeling at the centre of God's loving purpose for our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1. Rootlessness\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the road\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDead end\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe pathless way\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2. Respite\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen pastures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blessing of sleep\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo place like home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3. Ruins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInto the depths\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA desert place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA time to mend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4. Release\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStuck\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFreed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCleansed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 5. Return\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the rock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrossing the bay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe recovery of joy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is a priest in the Church in Wales, living and working on the Llyn Peninsula. She was previously a commissioning editor for BRF, and edited and contributed to New Daylight and Quiet Spaces. Her other books include The Recovery of Hope (BRF2016), The Recovery of Love (BRF, 2012), Pilgrims to the Manger (BRF, 2010) and Good Enough Mother(BRF, 2009).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEvangelicals Now, May 2018, Review by Lindsay Benn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blurb on the back cover claims that this book 'weaves imaginative story and profound reflections on a selection of Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to'. This is a good summary of the contents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not a big fan of fictional Christian writing, but Naomi writes with endearing charm and describes the eventful journey of a troubled pilgrim trying to find meaning and purpose in life. Each chapter tracks the path of this pilgrim through traumas, dilemmas and moments of respite, with the reader becoming acutely aware that problems will ultimately have to be faced head on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe oases of the Psalms\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are struggling with the baggage that life throws at you, with unresolved relationship issues, or just exhausted with the 'what ifs' of life - you may find this book helpful. It is an easy read, and for me the oases were the reflections on the Psalms. I was moved once again by their astonishing relevance and the soothing balm that they offer as we cope with the pressures of 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e-century living. Realising that we can have God's help and that he will be with us every step on the untidy journey of life, brings healing and hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLindsay Benn, church member, Northamptonshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\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\u003eChurch Times 22-29 December 2017: Review by Jenny Francis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccasionally we can lose our way in life. The comfortable set of values which we have cultivated seems less relevant, and our overall strategy is no longer fit for purpose.Too easily, we may fall into a slough of despond. What was initially an insidious threat to mind and body becomes a desolate sense of rootlessness and alienation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is an experienced author and a priest. This small book has been written to help with just these times in our lives. It is the third in her series of 'recovery of' titles, the others being of hope and of love, and as such, it offers a valuable, reflective companion to help us out of the cul-de-sac that threatens to trap the lost and rootless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are five Parts: Rootlessness, Respite, Ruins, Release, and Return. Each has three identically structured chapters. It is written using the pronoun 'we', and the reader becomes one of a small group embarking on a journey with no clear destination. As they travel together, appreciating that they had each almost come to a halt, their 'story of exile and rootless wandering eventually becomes one of purpose, maybe even pilgrimage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a long tradition of spiritual wanderers setting out in faith in Christianity, as well as in other faiths. Some viewed this as an abandonment of self to God's purposes. Others viewed it as a kind of exile, leaving behind all that was familiar while having no purpose for the future. In this book, the author tells a story about travellers crossing the sea in a small boat. Somehow, guided by divine mercy through wind and waves, they sail from one island to another, and on each they find welcome and a learning experience. As the sailors learn more of themselves and of God, they also grow through the challenges set to test and guide them. We journey with them and, by taking time to meditate on each psalm, specially selected to aid our private prayer, we, too, find ourselves led from darkness to light, to greater self-awareness and insight. This journey goes from exhaustion to acceptance, and hence to the gift of God's healing as we all rediscover the wonder of what God has done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis slim volume is a useful tool for our own personal devotion. A chapter a day provides just over a fortnight of thoughtful reflection on how to find our way back to the God of our creation. As the author concludes, 'no matter the pain we may yet have to face, no matter what the next part of our journey may hold, we have hope for tomorrow.' I am writing on Advent Sunday: we know that it is that hope that heralds the advent of joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Jenny Francis is a retired psychotherapist and a priest in the Diocese of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T11:24:11+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T11:23:14+00:00","vendor":"Naomi Starkey","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Glassboxx","Pastoral care","Sep-17","Spirituality"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"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":53604891984252,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465368","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":147,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465368","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/327.png?v=1730980394","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/328.png?v=1730980334"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/327.png?v=1730980394","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503695228,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/327.png?v=1730980394"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/327.png?v=1730980394","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001489375612,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/328.png?v=1730980334"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/328.png?v=1730980334","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God at our right hand, step by step in the radiant light of his presence. It involves remembering that we have already arrived at our destination - the safety of our Father's house - even as we continue on the pilgrim road that takes us through life.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Recovery of Joy weaves imaginative story and profound biblical reflections on several of the Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to. The narrative begins in rootlessness and despair and takes a wanderer across the sea to a series of islands. These are the setting for a series of events and encounters through which emerges a progression from that initial rootlessness, through healing, to a rediscovery of the joy of feeling at the centre of God's loving purpose for our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1. Rootlessness\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the road\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDead end\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe pathless way\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2. Respite\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen pastures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blessing of sleep\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo place like home\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3. Ruins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInto the depths\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA desert place\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA time to mend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4. Release\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStuck\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFreed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCleansed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 5. Return\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOn the rock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrossing the bay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe recovery of joy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is a priest in the Church in Wales, living and working on the Llyn Peninsula. She was previously a commissioning editor for BRF, and edited and contributed to New Daylight and Quiet Spaces. Her other books include The Recovery of Hope (BRF2016), The Recovery of Love (BRF, 2012), Pilgrims to the Manger (BRF, 2010) and Good Enough Mother(BRF, 2009).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEvangelicals Now, May 2018, Review by Lindsay Benn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blurb on the back cover claims that this book 'weaves imaginative story and profound reflections on a selection of Psalms to trace a journey that many of us will relate to'. This is a good summary of the contents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not a big fan of fictional Christian writing, but Naomi writes with endearing charm and describes the eventful journey of a troubled pilgrim trying to find meaning and purpose in life. Each chapter tracks the path of this pilgrim through traumas, dilemmas and moments of respite, with the reader becoming acutely aware that problems will ultimately have to be faced head on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe oases of the Psalms\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are struggling with the baggage that life throws at you, with unresolved relationship issues, or just exhausted with the 'what ifs' of life - you may find this book helpful. It is an easy read, and for me the oases were the reflections on the Psalms. I was moved once again by their astonishing relevance and the soothing balm that they offer as we cope with the pressures of 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e-century living. Realising that we can have God's help and that he will be with us every step on the untidy journey of life, brings healing and hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLindsay Benn, church member, Northamptonshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\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\u003eChurch Times 22-29 December 2017: Review by Jenny Francis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccasionally we can lose our way in life. The comfortable set of values which we have cultivated seems less relevant, and our overall strategy is no longer fit for purpose.Too easily, we may fall into a slough of despond. What was initially an insidious threat to mind and body becomes a desolate sense of rootlessness and alienation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaomi Starkey is an experienced author and a priest. This small book has been written to help with just these times in our lives. It is the third in her series of 'recovery of' titles, the others being of hope and of love, and as such, it offers a valuable, reflective companion to help us out of the cul-de-sac that threatens to trap the lost and rootless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are five Parts: Rootlessness, Respite, Ruins, Release, and Return. Each has three identically structured chapters. It is written using the pronoun 'we', and the reader becomes one of a small group embarking on a journey with no clear destination. As they travel together, appreciating that they had each almost come to a halt, their 'story of exile and rootless wandering eventually becomes one of purpose, maybe even pilgrimage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a long tradition of spiritual wanderers setting out in faith in Christianity, as well as in other faiths. Some viewed this as an abandonment of self to God's purposes. Others viewed it as a kind of exile, leaving behind all that was familiar while having no purpose for the future. In this book, the author tells a story about travellers crossing the sea in a small boat. Somehow, guided by divine mercy through wind and waves, they sail from one island to another, and on each they find welcome and a learning experience. As the sailors learn more of themselves and of God, they also grow through the challenges set to test and guide them. We journey with them and, by taking time to meditate on each psalm, specially selected to aid our private prayer, we, too, find ourselves led from darkness to light, to greater self-awareness and insight. This journey goes from exhaustion to acceptance, and hence to the gift of God's healing as we all rediscover the wonder of what God has done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis slim volume is a useful tool for our own personal devotion. A chapter a day provides just over a fortnight of thoughtful reflection on how to find our way back to the God of our creation. As the author concludes, 'no matter the pain we may yet have to face, no matter what the next part of our journey may hold, we have hope for tomorrow.' I am writing on Advent Sunday: we know that it is that hope that heralds the advent of joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Jenny Francis is a retired psychotherapist and a priest in the Diocese of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Recovery of Joy: finding the path from rootlessness to returning home
£6.99
Digital eBook Only - 'Recovering joy involves more than following our social codes and conventions. It involves walking with God...
{"id":14897061560700,"title":"Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life","handle":"rhythms-of-grace","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eRhythms of Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and charismatic background, Tony Horsfall felt an increasing desire to know God more deeply. At the same time, he felt an increasing dissatisfaction with his own spiritual life, as well as concern at the number of highly qualified and gifted people involved in Christian ministry who experience burn-out. In this book he shows how contemplative spirituality, with its emphasis on realising our identity as God's beloved children and on being rather than doing, has vital lessons for us about discovering intimacy with God. It also provides essential insights about building a ministry that is both enjoyable and sustainable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-12-12T13:56:20+00:00","created_at":"2024-12-12T13:49:01+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","KCLC","Leadership","Mentoring","Pastoral care","Tony Horsfall"],"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":54844530327932,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393271","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":196,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393271","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63731913523580,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/9781800393271.jpg?v=1737147221","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eRhythms of Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and charismatic background, Tony Horsfall felt an increasing desire to know God more deeply. At the same time, he felt an increasing dissatisfaction with his own spiritual life, as well as concern at the number of highly qualified and gifted people involved in Christian ministry who experience burn-out. In this book he shows how contemplative spirituality, with its emphasis on realising our identity as God's beloved children and on being rather than doing, has vital lessons for us about discovering intimacy with God. It also provides essential insights about building a ministry that is both enjoyable and sustainable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Rhythms of Grace: Finding intimacy with God in a busy life
£9.99
FULLY REVISED AND UPDATED 2ND EDITION Rhythms of Grace emerges from a personal exploration of contemplative spirituality. Coming from an evangelical and...
{"id":4853328380043,"title":"At Home in Advent: A domestic journey from Advent to Epiphany","handle":"at-home-in-advent-a-domestic-journey-from-advent-to-epiphany","description":"\u003cp\u003eFollowing on from the success of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/at-home-in-lent-an-exploration-of-lent-through-46-objects\"\u003eAt Home in Lent\u003c\/a\u003e, Gordon Giles takes a journey through Advent to Christmas and beyond in the company of familiar seasonal and domestic objects and experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocusing on the everyday stuff we typically associate with this time of year, including some things not so festive, he reflects on their spiritual significance, meaning and message in today’s world. Beginning with chapters on journeying and travel, the book moves through major Advent themes of expectation, waiting, mortality and hope to the joy of incarnation and salvation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\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=\"117\" height=\"208\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including \u003cem\u003eComings and Goings\u003c\/em\u003e (2015) and \u003cem\u003eAt Home in Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdvent 2020 may turn out to be a journey of watching and waiting in unexpected ways. Gordon Giles’ timely reflections help turn these unexpected times into renewed expectation of the living God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRt Revd James Langstaff, Lord Bishop of Rochester and Bishop to HM Prisons\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/transformingministrymagazine.co.uk\/at-home-in-advent\/\"\u003eonline\u003c\/a\u003e November 2020. Review by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book invites us to take Advent and the Christmas seasons seriously. By using a number of meditations based on commonplace articles like traffic lights, burglar alarms and even Christmas jumpers, Gordon Giles unlocks the meanings of the story that shapes the time of year. This is a well-written book, which includes prayers and practical actions for the reader to undertake during the month it is based around. These are challenging and helpful. He provides questions that can be used by home or other study groups. The book has a definite context, having been written during the tight lockdown of early2020, which makes it even more relevant. We have all become far more acquainted with our own houses, the commonplace, and a book that seeks to see the spiritual significance of this is therefore most valuable. The author tackles issues of expectation, waiting, mortality and hope as well as celebrating the joy of the incarnation and the salvation that Jesus brought. This is a first class read and a valuable aid for the Advent and Christmas seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePraise for At Home in Lent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'It is a great idea and an easy read.' The Reader\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'Well written and thought provoking, this really is a book for personal devotion which will enable us to make an unusual, though worthwhile, journey.' The Methodist Recorder\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'An amiable, slightly talkative companion.' Church Times\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-05-01T16:32:57+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-01T16:53:59+01:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"Paperback","tags":["Advent","Biblical engagement","Christmas","Devotional","Group reading","KCLC","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":33574915735691,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857469809","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"At Home in Advent: A domestic journey from Advent to Epiphany","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":899,"weight":219,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857469809","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469809.jpg?v=1588348441","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/12_32ff39cf-03ee-4e63-a4c4-1742d44fa13e.png?v=1734095695"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469809.jpg?v=1588348441","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7669920694411,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469809.jpg?v=1588348441"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9780857469809.jpg?v=1588348441","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":63560966406524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/12_32ff39cf-03ee-4e63-a4c4-1742d44fa13e.png?v=1734095695"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/12_32ff39cf-03ee-4e63-a4c4-1742d44fa13e.png?v=1734095695","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eFollowing on from the success of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/at-home-in-lent-an-exploration-of-lent-through-46-objects\"\u003eAt Home in Lent\u003c\/a\u003e, Gordon Giles takes a journey through Advent to Christmas and beyond in the company of familiar seasonal and domestic objects and experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocusing on the everyday stuff we typically associate with this time of year, including some things not so festive, he reflects on their spiritual significance, meaning and message in today’s world. Beginning with chapters on journeying and travel, the book moves through major Advent themes of expectation, waiting, mortality and hope to the joy of incarnation and salvation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\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=\"117\" height=\"208\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including \u003cem\u003eComings and Goings\u003c\/em\u003e (2015) and \u003cem\u003eAt Home in Lent\u003c\/em\u003e (2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdvent 2020 may turn out to be a journey of watching and waiting in unexpected ways. Gordon Giles’ timely reflections help turn these unexpected times into renewed expectation of the living God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRt Revd James Langstaff, Lord Bishop of Rochester and Bishop to HM Prisons\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/transformingministrymagazine.co.uk\/at-home-in-advent\/\"\u003eonline\u003c\/a\u003e November 2020. Review by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book invites us to take Advent and the Christmas seasons seriously. By using a number of meditations based on commonplace articles like traffic lights, burglar alarms and even Christmas jumpers, Gordon Giles unlocks the meanings of the story that shapes the time of year. This is a well-written book, which includes prayers and practical actions for the reader to undertake during the month it is based around. These are challenging and helpful. He provides questions that can be used by home or other study groups. The book has a definite context, having been written during the tight lockdown of early2020, which makes it even more relevant. We have all become far more acquainted with our own houses, the commonplace, and a book that seeks to see the spiritual significance of this is therefore most valuable. The author tackles issues of expectation, waiting, mortality and hope as well as celebrating the joy of the incarnation and the salvation that Jesus brought. This is a first class read and a valuable aid for the Advent and Christmas seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePraise for At Home in Lent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'It is a great idea and an easy read.' The Reader\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'Well written and thought provoking, this really is a book for personal devotion which will enable us to make an unusual, though worthwhile, journey.' The Methodist Recorder\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'An amiable, slightly talkative companion.' Church Times\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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At Home in Advent: A domestic journey from Advent to Epiphany
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{"id":4861441441931,"title":"Come and See: Learning from the life of Peter","handle":"come-and-see-learning-from-the-life-of-peter","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen we look at the life of Peter – fisherman, disciple, leader of the church – we find somebody who responded wholeheartedly to the call to ‘come and see’. Come and meet Jesus, come and follow him, come and find your life being transformed. This book focuses on Peter, not because he is the best-known of Jesus’ friends, nor the most loyal, but because he shows us what being a disciple of Jesus is actually like. Like us, he takes a step of faith and then flounders, and needs the saving touch of God to continue becoming the person he was created to be.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome and See provides a pattern of Bible reading, reflection and prayer. Twenty-eight readings, arranged in four sections, offer short passages from the story of Peter, plus comment and questions for personal response or group discussion.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore his appointment as the 98th Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell was the Bishop of Chelmsford. He is a member of the House of Lords and served as a member of the Select Committee for Communication. He is a well-known writer and speaker on evangelism, spirituality and catechesis, and is one of the authors of the Pilgrim course.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Sue Piper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchbishop Stephen has subtitled his book, ‘Learning from the Life of Peter’. He takes us through the life and calling of Peter in four sections which can be studied weekly or monthly, for use with a study group or as individuals. Drawing on scripture, we are helped to understand firstly Peter’s call, then how his character has been shaped, especially on the way of the cross, and finally in enduring hope. Each section ends with some searching questions. This book reveals Peter’s character in great detail, with all his weaknesses, fears and strengths, as Jesus supports him in his personal growth journey of faith. And this journey could be yours or mine as we explore our own shortcomings and strengths; but with prayer and study we learn to become the person God loves and the person God desires us to be. We are guided on a journey of growing closer to God by Peter as he eventually realises his potential and his true gifts. We can do this too either as new Christians or long-time believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sue Piper\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Matters. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2003 as The Rock, this edition of 'Come and See: Learning from the Life of Peter' by Archbishop Stephen Cottrell is 'for new Christians who want to grow in their faith, and for more experienced Christians who want to reset the compass of their discipleship'. It has a fivefold aim: to help people “grow as followers of Jesus, develop a love for the Bible, understand more about the Bible, establish a regular pattern for Bible reading, and allow the word of God to shape their lives”. Each of the 28 sections comprises a Scripture passage – at times somewhat loosely linked to the life of Peter – followed by a comment and questions for personal reflection or for group discussion. This is a most helpful guide by a great communicator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Good Bookstall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eReading, reflection and prayer are helpfully visited in this revision of a former 2003 publication that is an effective first reader to the life of a struggling, true, first-follower of Jesus. This compact guide to Lenten weeks is an able accompaniment to life and learning from the life of Peter. There is a compelling reality to this discipleship journey in the breadth and searching in the New Testament sweep of scriptures offered here. These twenty-eight readings are accompanied by pithy, provoking and helpful resources for reflection. Clear and chewy!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - March 2011 First published in as On This Rock - Bible Foundations for Christian Living (2003).\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2020-05-04T11:53:49+01:00","created_at":"2020-05-04T13:12:37+01:00","vendor":"Stephen Cottrell","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","KCLC","Kindle","Lent"],"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":34890052534424,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390195","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"Come and See: Learning from the life of Peter - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":799,"weight":184,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390195","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390195.jpg?v=1588594358","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/7_530d0207-5b1a-4113-ac70-c049422a232b.png?v=1734095691"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390195.jpg?v=1588594358","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":7710992072843,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390195.jpg?v=1588594358"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":1524,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781800390195.jpg?v=1588594358","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":63560966111612,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/7_530d0207-5b1a-4113-ac70-c049422a232b.png?v=1734095691"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/7_530d0207-5b1a-4113-ac70-c049422a232b.png?v=1734095691","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eWhen we look at the life of Peter – fisherman, disciple, leader of the church – we find somebody who responded wholeheartedly to the call to ‘come and see’. Come and meet Jesus, come and follow him, come and find your life being transformed. This book focuses on Peter, not because he is the best-known of Jesus’ friends, nor the most loyal, but because he shows us what being a disciple of Jesus is actually like. Like us, he takes a step of faith and then flounders, and needs the saving touch of God to continue becoming the person he was created to be.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome and See provides a pattern of Bible reading, reflection and prayer. Twenty-eight readings, arranged in four sections, offer short passages from the story of Peter, plus comment and questions for personal response or group discussion.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore his appointment as the 98th Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell was the Bishop of Chelmsford. He is a member of the House of Lords and served as a member of the Select Committee for Communication. He is a well-known writer and speaker on evangelism, spirituality and catechesis, and is one of the authors of the Pilgrim course.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Sue Piper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchbishop Stephen has subtitled his book, ‘Learning from the Life of Peter’. He takes us through the life and calling of Peter in four sections which can be studied weekly or monthly, for use with a study group or as individuals. Drawing on scripture, we are helped to understand firstly Peter’s call, then how his character has been shaped, especially on the way of the cross, and finally in enduring hope. Each section ends with some searching questions. This book reveals Peter’s character in great detail, with all his weaknesses, fears and strengths, as Jesus supports him in his personal growth journey of faith. And this journey could be yours or mine as we explore our own shortcomings and strengths; but with prayer and study we learn to become the person God loves and the person God desires us to be. We are guided on a journey of growing closer to God by Peter as he eventually realises his potential and his true gifts. We can do this too either as new Christians or long-time believers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sue Piper\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Matters. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst published in 2003 as The Rock, this edition of 'Come and See: Learning from the Life of Peter' by Archbishop Stephen Cottrell is 'for new Christians who want to grow in their faith, and for more experienced Christians who want to reset the compass of their discipleship'. It has a fivefold aim: to help people “grow as followers of Jesus, develop a love for the Bible, understand more about the Bible, establish a regular pattern for Bible reading, and allow the word of God to shape their lives”. Each of the 28 sections comprises a Scripture passage – at times somewhat loosely linked to the life of Peter – followed by a comment and questions for personal reflection or for group discussion. This is a most helpful guide by a great communicator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Good Bookstall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eReading, reflection and prayer are helpfully visited in this revision of a former 2003 publication that is an effective first reader to the life of a struggling, true, first-follower of Jesus. This compact guide to Lenten weeks is an able accompaniment to life and learning from the life of Peter. There is a compelling reality to this discipleship journey in the breadth and searching in the New Testament sweep of scriptures offered here. These twenty-eight readings are accompanied by pithy, provoking and helpful resources for reflection. Clear and chewy!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - March 2011 First published in as On This Rock - Bible Foundations for Christian Living (2003).\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Come and See: Learning from the life of Peter
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When we look at the life of Peter – fisherman, disciple, leader of the church – we find somebody who...
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{"id":14961122640252,"title":"The Upper Room January-April 2025","handle":"the-upper-room-january-april-2026","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach day’s reading contains a Bible passage to read, a reflection on the passage and a prayer, followed by a 'Thought for the day' and a suggested 'Prayer focus' for the day. There is also a set of small group questions provided each week to fuel discussions within house groups, with a prayer partner or just with friends in church.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T10:24:08+00:00","created_at":"2025-01-14T10:23:06+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx"],"price":499,"price_min":499,"price_max":499,"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":54875215069564,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393899","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Upper Room January-April 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":499,"weight":120,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393899","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Upper_Room_Jan25.jpg?v=1726061573"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Upper_Room_Jan25.jpg?v=1726061573","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":29532680159423,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Upper_Room_Jan25.jpg?v=1726061573"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Upper_Room_Jan25.jpg?v=1726061573","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach day’s reading contains a Bible passage to read, a reflection on the passage and a prayer, followed by a 'Thought for the day' and a suggested 'Prayer focus' for the day. There is also a set of small group questions provided each week to fuel discussions within house groups, with a prayer partner or just with friends in church.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Upper Room January-April 2025
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{"id":14961331306876,"title":"The Whole Easter Story: Why the cross is good news for all creation","handle":"the-whole-easter-story-why-the-cross-is-good-news-for-all-creation-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only -\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e There is no doubt that each of us has a place in the Easter story, but what happened on the cross is not just a story of me and Jesus. It is far deeper and wider than that. In this Lenten journey, Jo Swinney explores the broader impact of the Easter story on God’s relationship with creation. Through Bible readings, reflections and stories from A Rocha’s global conservation efforts, discover how the cross transforms not just our own individual connection with Jesus, but also our relationships with each other and our world. \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlso available in paperback format, click \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/ebooks\/products\/the-whole-easter-story-why-the-cross-is-good-news-for-all-creation-1\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eJoin the A Rocha lent book club for 2025 with author Jo Swinney and Jo Herbert from A Rocha. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou are warmly invited to be part of a six week Lent group exploring what the Bible has to say about the whole story of the cross, based on \"The Whole Easter Story\" by Jo Swinney (BRF's Lent Book for 2025). Join others from around the world for honest conversation, prayer and encouragement to go deeper in your life with God in the lead up to Easter. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tickettailor.com\/events\/arochainternational\/1480132\" title=\"A Rocha Lent Book Club\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook now\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row avoid-break\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card\" id=\"productCardContributors\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card-body\"\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"row\"\u003e\n\u003cdd class=\"col-sm-10\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eJo Swinney is a UK-based author, speaker and editor, with an MA in theology from Regent College, Vancouver. She is the Director of Communications for A Rocha International.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Jo’s insights, stories and drawings illuminate the connections between God, people and the rest of creation, bringing them all together to demonstrate why looking after the planet is such a key part of the Christian life.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Ruth Bancewicz, church engagement director, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Jo Swinney’s delightful, engaging and provocative Lenten devotional is aptly named. So often we tell a truncated Easter story, but this series of reflections opens us out to the depth, breadth and grandeur of God’s love for his whole creation, including us people. Narrated with honesty, warmth and the insightful perspective of a storyteller, The Whole Easter Story helps us see afresh the immense power and wisdom of the cross for the salvation of the whole world. Thoroughly recommended!’ \u003cem\u003eProfessor Paul S. Williams, chief executive, Bible Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Do something different this Lent! This is your chance to look at the relationships between God, people and the environment in an entirely new way. Join Jo Swinney of A Rocha as she takes us on a special journey through Lent, accompanied by birds, bugs, mammals, reptiles and, yes, people!’ \u003cem\u003eMartin Hodson, principal tutor of Christian Rural and Environmental Studies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ca name=\"_Hlk181277662\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e‘Digging into scripture from the starting point of God’s ongoing work of creation and not human sin – this is the Lenten journey the church needs to take for the sake of the world. Honest, accessible, deeply informed by practices of both faith and conservation, this is a book that really could reshape how contemporary Christians see the world and find their place in it.’ \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003eDr Ellen Davis, professor of Bible and Practical Theology, Duke Divinity School\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003e‘The Whole Easter Story is both intensely personal and mind-bendingly cosmic, as well as being a really good read!’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003eThe Revd Dr Dave Bookless, head of theology, A Rocha International\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘The Whole Easter Story is a series of thoughtful reflections on the story of God’s salvation through Israel and, ultimately, in Christ. Yet, at the same time, Jo Swinney delightfully weaves in her musings on the familiar rhythms of our ordinary lives and her pondering on the beauty which we all behold in creation. I warmly commend these Easter reflections to all!’ \u003cem\u003eDr Lai Pak-Wah, principal, Biblical Graduate School of Theology, Singapore\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘It is easy to feel small or powerless in tackling big questions of the environment. That is why this companion to Lent is essential reading for churches: it guides us in thinking through these problems, not only as individuals, but ultimately as communities that care and as people who have a joined-up way of telling the whole Easter story with a heart for the creation God loves. Beautifully timed, this book needs to be read, listened to, discussed, prayed with, carried in a pocket and acted on.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Ivan Khovacs, Canterbury Christ Church University and St James’s Church Piccadilly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a truly enjoyable devotional book, providing an excellent guide as we journey through our relationship with God, others and God’s wider creation, as well as God’s own relationship with his creation. It draws deeply from scripture, with insights that will have you wanting to re-read familiar Bible stories. Refreshingly honest, laugh out loud, attentive to all of God’s creation – your heart and soul will be fed.’ \u003cem\u003eJo Herbert-James, head of engagement, A Rocha UK\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Church Times 07.02.25. Lent book roundup by Peter McGeary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eAuthor Jo Swinney is director of communications for A Rocha International. Her work with A Rocha provides the inspiration for this volume. The ‘Lenten journey’ here is not based on the Church’s lectionary but on a broader (quasi sacramental?) view of the relationship between God, humanity, and creation, which is focused in the Easter story. The work of A Rocha is basically to invite Christian communities around the world to engage with creation, to try to improve the ways in which humanity treats the environment, and to do so in practical and achievable ways. (My last parish had an example of their work: a piece of wasteland under a rather nasty flyover which was transformed into a little nature reserve.) Again, we have here 40 short chapters ending with short reflections. The theme determines the scriptures used, not the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\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 class=\"row avoid-break\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card\" id=\"productCardSubjectsAndAudience\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T12:38:30+00:00","created_at":"2025-01-14T12:36:59+00:00","vendor":"Jo Swinney","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Caring for creation","Devotional","Discipleship","Easter","Environmental issues","For individuals","Glassboxx","Lent"],"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":54875600421244,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392700","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":72704226034044,"product_id":14961331306876,"position":1,"created_at":"2025-01-15T16:32:57+00:00","updated_at":"2025-01-15T16:33:02+00:00","alt":null,"width":1303,"height":2000,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782","variant_ids":[54875600421244]},"available":true,"name":"The Whole Easter Story: Why the cross is good news for all creation - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":220,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392700","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":63720648802684,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348_eb0ad652-8ba8-48b9-969b-1921a30fa156.png?v=1736958780"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63720648802684,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347_a073f3e7-2229-4bed-9391-272bb40c2388.png?v=1736958782","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63720648835452,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348_eb0ad652-8ba8-48b9-969b-1921a30fa156.png?v=1736958780"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348_eb0ad652-8ba8-48b9-969b-1921a30fa156.png?v=1736958780","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only -\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e There is no doubt that each of us has a place in the Easter story, but what happened on the cross is not just a story of me and Jesus. It is far deeper and wider than that. In this Lenten journey, Jo Swinney explores the broader impact of the Easter story on God’s relationship with creation. Through Bible readings, reflections and stories from A Rocha’s global conservation efforts, discover how the cross transforms not just our own individual connection with Jesus, but also our relationships with each other and our world. \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlso available in paperback format, click \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/collections\/ebooks\/products\/the-whole-easter-story-why-the-cross-is-good-news-for-all-creation-1\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eJoin the A Rocha lent book club for 2025 with author Jo Swinney and Jo Herbert from A Rocha. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou are warmly invited to be part of a six week Lent group exploring what the Bible has to say about the whole story of the cross, based on \"The Whole Easter Story\" by Jo Swinney (BRF's Lent Book for 2025). Join others from around the world for honest conversation, prayer and encouragement to go deeper in your life with God in the lead up to Easter. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tickettailor.com\/events\/arochainternational\/1480132\" title=\"A Rocha Lent Book Club\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook now\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row avoid-break\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card\" id=\"productCardContributors\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card-body\"\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"row\"\u003e\n\u003cdd class=\"col-sm-10\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eJo Swinney is a UK-based author, speaker and editor, with an MA in theology from Regent College, Vancouver. She is the Director of Communications for A Rocha International.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Jo’s insights, stories and drawings illuminate the connections between God, people and the rest of creation, bringing them all together to demonstrate why looking after the planet is such a key part of the Christian life.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Ruth Bancewicz, church engagement director, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Jo Swinney’s delightful, engaging and provocative Lenten devotional is aptly named. So often we tell a truncated Easter story, but this series of reflections opens us out to the depth, breadth and grandeur of God’s love for his whole creation, including us people. Narrated with honesty, warmth and the insightful perspective of a storyteller, The Whole Easter Story helps us see afresh the immense power and wisdom of the cross for the salvation of the whole world. Thoroughly recommended!’ \u003cem\u003eProfessor Paul S. Williams, chief executive, Bible Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Do something different this Lent! This is your chance to look at the relationships between God, people and the environment in an entirely new way. Join Jo Swinney of A Rocha as she takes us on a special journey through Lent, accompanied by birds, bugs, mammals, reptiles and, yes, people!’ \u003cem\u003eMartin Hodson, principal tutor of Christian Rural and Environmental Studies\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ca name=\"_Hlk181277662\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e‘Digging into scripture from the starting point of God’s ongoing work of creation and not human sin – this is the Lenten journey the church needs to take for the sake of the world. Honest, accessible, deeply informed by practices of both faith and conservation, this is a book that really could reshape how contemporary Christians see the world and find their place in it.’ \u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003eDr Ellen Davis, professor of Bible and Practical Theology, Duke Divinity School\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003e‘The Whole Easter Story is both intensely personal and mind-bendingly cosmic, as well as being a really good read!’ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-bookmark: _Hlk181277662;\"\u003eThe Revd Dr Dave Bookless, head of theology, A Rocha International\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘The Whole Easter Story is a series of thoughtful reflections on the story of God’s salvation through Israel and, ultimately, in Christ. Yet, at the same time, Jo Swinney delightfully weaves in her musings on the familiar rhythms of our ordinary lives and her pondering on the beauty which we all behold in creation. I warmly commend these Easter reflections to all!’ \u003cem\u003eDr Lai Pak-Wah, principal, Biblical Graduate School of Theology, Singapore\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘It is easy to feel small or powerless in tackling big questions of the environment. That is why this companion to Lent is essential reading for churches: it guides us in thinking through these problems, not only as individuals, but ultimately as communities that care and as people who have a joined-up way of telling the whole Easter story with a heart for the creation God loves. Beautifully timed, this book needs to be read, listened to, discussed, prayed with, carried in a pocket and acted on.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Ivan Khovacs, Canterbury Christ Church University and St James’s Church Piccadilly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a truly enjoyable devotional book, providing an excellent guide as we journey through our relationship with God, others and God’s wider creation, as well as God’s own relationship with his creation. It draws deeply from scripture, with insights that will have you wanting to re-read familiar Bible stories. Refreshingly honest, laugh out loud, attentive to all of God’s creation – your heart and soul will be fed.’ \u003cem\u003eJo Herbert-James, head of engagement, A Rocha UK\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Church Times 07.02.25. Lent book roundup by Peter McGeary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eAuthor Jo Swinney is director of communications for A Rocha International. Her work with A Rocha provides the inspiration for this volume. The ‘Lenten journey’ here is not based on the Church’s lectionary but on a broader (quasi sacramental?) view of the relationship between God, humanity, and creation, which is focused in the Easter story. The work of A Rocha is basically to invite Christian communities around the world to engage with creation, to try to improve the ways in which humanity treats the environment, and to do so in practical and achievable ways. (My last parish had an example of their work: a piece of wasteland under a rather nasty flyover which was transformed into a little nature reserve.) Again, we have here 40 short chapters ending with short reflections. The theme determines the scriptures used, not the other way round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\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 class=\"row avoid-break\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card\" id=\"productCardSubjectsAndAudience\" data-v-5a160260=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e"}
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The Whole Easter Story: Why the cross is good news for all creation
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Digital eBook Only - There is no doubt that each of us has a place in the Easter story, but...
{"id":14961562583420,"title":"The Story We Live By: A reader's guide to the New Testament","handle":"the-story-we-live-by-a-readers-guide-to-the-new-testament-1","description":"\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of Christianity is a story - not a code nor a creed, but the story of Jesus. Christians have lived by this story for centuries and return to it again and again to renew faith and deepen understanding. This book is an accessible introduction to how that story is presented in the New Testament, firstly in the four different accounts of Jesus' life, death and resurrection, followed by the early years of the Church and the ensuing series of letters and commentaries on those events.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarting with an analysis of the four Gospels, \u003cem\u003eThe Story We Live By\u003c\/em\u003e shows how the New Testament writers shaped their material to communicate the truth of Jesus' teaching to their audiences and how their writings arise from and still maintain continuity with the Old Testament. It also covers issues such as authorship, textual dating and the different literary forms used from sermons to apocalypse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book contains a prologue and 15 chapters divided up as follows:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrologue: The Story behind the Story (relationship between Old and New Testaments)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 1: The Story of Jesus (the four gospels - 5 chapters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 2: The Church's Story (Acts, Paul, Paul's letters - 8 chapters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 3: Living by the Story (Hebrews, letters of James, Peter, John, Jude; Revelation)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","published_at":"2025-01-14T14:43:27+00:00","created_at":"2025-01-14T14:43:27+00:00","vendor":"R Alastair Campbell","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","KCLC"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"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":54875909554556,"title":"Paperback","option1":"Paperback","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781841013596","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"The Story We Live By: A reader's guide to the New Testament - Paperback","public_title":"Paperback","options":["Paperback"],"price":1299,"weight":200,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781841013596","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017556Z.jpg?v=1550663420"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017556Z.jpg?v=1550663420","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":3259441741963,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.638,"height":235,"width":150,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017556Z.jpg?v=1550663420"},"aspect_ratio":0.638,"height":235,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/products\/9781841017556Z.jpg?v=1550663420","width":150}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of Christianity is a story - not a code nor a creed, but the story of Jesus. Christians have lived by this story for centuries and return to it again and again to renew faith and deepen understanding. This book is an accessible introduction to how that story is presented in the New Testament, firstly in the four different accounts of Jesus' life, death and resurrection, followed by the early years of the Church and the ensuing series of letters and commentaries on those events.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarting with an analysis of the four Gospels, \u003cem\u003eThe Story We Live By\u003c\/em\u003e shows how the New Testament writers shaped their material to communicate the truth of Jesus' teaching to their audiences and how their writings arise from and still maintain continuity with the Old Testament. It also covers issues such as authorship, textual dating and the different literary forms used from sermons to apocalypse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book contains a prologue and 15 chapters divided up as follows:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrologue: The Story behind the Story (relationship between Old and New Testaments)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 1: The Story of Jesus (the four gospels - 5 chapters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 2: The Church's Story (Acts, Paul, Paul's letters - 8 chapters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart 3: Living by the Story (Hebrews, letters of James, Peter, John, Jude; Revelation)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e"}
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The Story We Live By: A reader's guide to the New Testament
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At the heart of Christianity is a story - not a code nor a creed, but the story of Jesus....
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{"id":15096073126268,"title":"New Daylight May - August 2025","handle":"new-daylight-may-august-2025-ebook","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach issue of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprovides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecovers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1—3 John – Michael Mitton\u003cbr\u003eNumbers: further wilderness adventures – Naomi Starkey\u003cbr\u003eLuke 13—16 – Margaret Silf\u003cbr\u003eNumbered for God – Gordon Giles\u003cbr\u003eEsther – Fiona Stratta\u003cbr\u003ePeacemaking – Matt McChlery\u003cbr\u003ePsalms 67—72 – Roland Riem\u003cbr\u003e1 Corinthians 1—8 – Liz Hoare\u003cbr\u003eBible chemicals – Geoffrey Lowson\u003cbr\u003eBarnabas – Martin Leckebusch\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-10T11:38:28+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-10T11:36:37+00:00","vendor":"Gordon Giles","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Gift","Glassboxx"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55009133953404,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393806","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"New Daylight May - August 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393806","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/421.png?v=1745087469","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_May25.jpg?v=1743495794"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/421.png?v=1745087469","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201600106876,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/421.png?v=1745087469"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/421.png?v=1745087469","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64305016045948,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_May25.jpg?v=1743495794"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_May25.jpg?v=1743495794","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach issue of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eprovides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew Daylight\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecovers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1—3 John – Michael Mitton\u003cbr\u003eNumbers: further wilderness adventures – Naomi Starkey\u003cbr\u003eLuke 13—16 – Margaret Silf\u003cbr\u003eNumbered for God – Gordon Giles\u003cbr\u003eEsther – Fiona Stratta\u003cbr\u003ePeacemaking – Matt McChlery\u003cbr\u003ePsalms 67—72 – Roland Riem\u003cbr\u003e1 Corinthians 1—8 – Liz Hoare\u003cbr\u003eBible chemicals – Geoffrey Lowson\u003cbr\u003eBarnabas – Martin Leckebusch\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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New Daylight May - August 2025
£5.25
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{"id":15096079745404,"title":"Day by Day with God May-August 2025","handle":"day-by-day-with-god-may-august-2025-ebook","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDay by Day with God\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by women. The entries for each day contain a suggested Bible reading, with the key verse written out in full, a helpful comment that engages heart and mind and a short reflection or prayer. Whatever your situation, you will be inspired and encouraged by these notes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ten commandments – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJesus said: ‘I am …’ – Jenny Sanders\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmos: from shepherd to prophet – Amy Boucher Pye\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMountains and valleys – Jen Baker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat the Bible says about being a man – Chine McDonald\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLearning from the life of Ruth – Rosemary Green\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaking all things new: God’s justice – Hannah Fytche\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to make good decisions – Lyndall Bywater\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmos: prophet for a disappointed God – Amy Boucher Pye\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eConfidence in God – Catherine Butcher\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePaul’s letter to the Philippians – Sara Batts-Neale\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-10T11:42:15+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-10T11:40:58+00:00","vendor":"Jackie Harris","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For individuals","For Women","Glassboxx"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":525,"compare_at_price_min":525,"compare_at_price_max":525,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":55009138147708,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393868","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Day by Day with God May-August 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":97,"compare_at_price":525,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393868","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/422.png?v=1742380484","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/423.png?v=1742380480"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/422.png?v=1742380484","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201602072956,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/422.png?v=1742380484"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/422.png?v=1742380484","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64201601745276,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/423.png?v=1742380480"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/423.png?v=1742380480","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDay by Day with God\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by women. The entries for each day contain a suggested Bible reading, with the key verse written out in full, a helpful comment that engages heart and mind and a short reflection or prayer. Whatever your situation, you will be inspired and encouraged by these notes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe ten commandments – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJesus said: ‘I am …’ – Jenny Sanders\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmos: from shepherd to prophet – Amy Boucher Pye\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMountains and valleys – Jen Baker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat the Bible says about being a man – Chine McDonald\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLearning from the life of Ruth – Rosemary Green\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaking all things new: God’s justice – Hannah Fytche\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow to make good decisions – Lyndall Bywater\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmos: prophet for a disappointed God – Amy Boucher Pye\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eConfidence in God – Catherine Butcher\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePaul’s letter to the Philippians – Sara Batts-Neale\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Day by Day with God May-August 2025
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Digital eBook Only - Day by Day with God is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by...
{"id":15096087675260,"title":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025","handle":"guidelines-may-august-2025-ebook","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-10T11:46:39+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-10T11:45:28+00:00","vendor":"Rachel Tranter and Olivia Warburton","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Leadership"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55009144897916,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393837","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":97,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393837","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201600434556,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/424.png?v=1742380467","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64201601286524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/425.png?v=1742380476","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights of current scholarship. Its intention is to enable all its readers to interpret and apply biblical text with confidence in today's world. Instead of dated daily readings, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidelines\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides weekly units, broken into six sections, plus an introduction and a final section of points for thought and prayer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Corinthians – Helen Miller\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNumbers: discipleship in the desert – Helen Paynter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod and female imagery in the Old Testament – Johannes J. Knecht\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames: faith-works as God’s new community – Tim Welch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eActs 1—9 – Steve Walton\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLamentations – Victoria Omotoso\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar and peace – Valerie Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHosea – Miriam Bier Hinksman\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeachable moments: discipling on the way in Luke’s gospel – George Wieland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA disabled reading of the healing miracles – Tanya Marlow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Guidelines: Bible study for today's ministry and mission May-August 2025
£5.25
Digital eBook Only - Guidelines is a unique Bible reading resource that offers four months of in-depth study, drawing on insights...
{"id":15096092918140,"title":"The Upper Room May-August 2025","handle":"the-upper-room-may-august-2025-ebook","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach day’s reading contains a Bible passage to read, a reflection on the passage and a prayer, followed by a 'Thought for the day' and a suggested 'Prayer focus' for the day. There is also a set of small group questions provided each week to fuel discussions within house groups, with a prayer partner or just with friends in church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'My husband and I very much enjoy reading\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etogether and praying together over breakfast each morning.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Just wanted to say how meaningful today's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eUpper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ereflection was to me. Seeing someone else who feels similarly to me is a big deal. So thank you for that and for all the work that BRF does.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'When [a friend's] dementia made it difficult for her to read with understanding, I would read\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand the scripture reading of the day to her, and then we would pray together. On her behalf, I thank you for all the pleasure and support you have given her over the many years since she took out her first subscription.'\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-10T11:49:59+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-10T11:48:58+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For individuals","Glassboxx","The Upper Room"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55009152008572,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393912","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Upper Room May-August 2025 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":525,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393912","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/426.png?v=1742380478","\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/427.png?v=1742380448"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/426.png?v=1742380478","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64201601417596,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/426.png?v=1742380478"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/426.png?v=1742380478","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":64201599091068,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/427.png?v=1742380448"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/427.png?v=1742380448","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach day’s reading contains a Bible passage to read, a reflection on the passage and a prayer, followed by a 'Thought for the day' and a suggested 'Prayer focus' for the day. There is also a set of small group questions provided each week to fuel discussions within house groups, with a prayer partner or just with friends in church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'My husband and I very much enjoy reading\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003etogether and praying together over breakfast each morning.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Just wanted to say how meaningful today's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eUpper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ereflection was to me. Seeing someone else who feels similarly to me is a big deal. So thank you for that and for all the work that BRF does.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'When [a friend's] dementia made it difficult for her to read with understanding, I would read\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Upper Room\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand the scripture reading of the day to her, and then we would pray together. On her behalf, I thank you for all the pleasure and support you have given her over the many years since she took out her first subscription.'\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Upper Room May-August 2025
£5.25
Digital eBook Only - Each day’s reading contains a Bible passage to read, a reflection on the passage and a...
{"id":15142814843260,"title":"Divine Windows: Seeing God through the lens of science","handle":"divine-windows-seeing-god-through-the-lens-of-science","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\"\u003eDive into Divine Windows – where science and faith meet. Looking through a fresh lens of wonder, play and order, scientist and minister David Gregory invites you to see something of God’s creative hand on the world around us revealed by the creativity of science. Through reflective commentary and an inspiring series of nature and science imagery like those seen in popular documentaries, the shaping of creation by a higher purpose is revealed in the vision of the universe unveiled by science.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDavid Gregory is Baptist Missioner for Science and Environment. He holds a PhD from the University of London in Atmospheric Physics and a degree in Physics and Astrophysics from Leicester University. David is a regular speaker with ‘God and the Big Bang’, exploring science and faith issues with both primary and secondary school students. He also speaks widely at churches, theological colleges and community groups. He is on the grant board of Scientists in Congregations, part of Equipping Christian Leaders in an Age of Science, which supports science and faith projects in local churches.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This book leads the reader through metaphor, wonder and play to a deeper appreciation of science and God. If you have wondered how science and religious faith can be held together, this book is for you.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Bethany Sollereder, lecturer in science and religion, The University of Edinburgh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a book of profound pictures – stunning images of the cosmos coupled with pictures of the wonder and playfulness of being both a scientist and a Christian. David Gregory explodes the myth that science and faith are boring! Rather he stimulates the imagination and engages curiosity to get to a picture of God that is compelling and liberating.’ \u003cem\u003eDavid Wilkinson, professor of theology and religion, Durham University\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘David Gregory doesn’t just argue that science and faith can coexist – he shows us how science can become a sacred lens through which we glimpse the presence of God. As a filmmaker, I believe in the power of image, beauty and story to open hearts and reawaken the imagination. This book does exactly that. It invites the people to rediscover a deeper vision of Christ – not just as the Lord of Sunday mornings, but as the one in whom stars burn, tectonic plates shift and every breath holds divine mystery. This is not just a helpful book. It’s a needed one.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Andy Thomas, Baptist pioneer minister, producer and director, Fuelcast Films\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a wonderful book that truly opens divine windows. David Gregory moves effortlessly between science and faith with an easy style that gives the reader confidence to explore these vast topics together. David explores the way art and science interweave and stimulate our imagination to see new horizons. Prepare to be inspired!’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Margot R. Hodson, director of theology and education, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe John Ray Initiative\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Here is an affirmation of the visual and of imagination, awe and wonder in both science and theology… We are given a deep groundwork as preparation for spiritual reflection on scientific images, before being let loose to explore some pictures from astronomy for ourselves, with enough scientific and theological content to fire the imagination. This is a beautiful book to give to thinking friends, family and colleagues, as well as a resource for the church.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Ruth M. Bancewicz, church engagement director, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis book is delightfully full of the familiar and the unfamiliar. Incredible images and arresting turns of phrase are brought together to give fresh perspectives around the intermingling of science, theology and the arts. It is most worthy of your time, your attention… and your spirit. Take up its invitation to dwell in all the richness and beauty that being a creature alive in God’s creation involves today!’ \u003cem\u003eDr Gavin Merrifield, general secretary of Christians in Science\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Using his studies and experience of both science and theology David Gregory gives useful reflections to aid the praise and worship of our creator and the creator of the whole cosmos. David helpfully encourages us to use our imagination and powers of observation in discovering the infinite love of the creator, the creator’s genius and invention displayed through design and ever fresh novelty and originality, wisdom, order and playfulness of creation… I believe that this book will help many in their contemplation and worship.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr John Weaver, former principle of Cardiff Baptist College and vice president of The John Ray Initiative\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘We have all got caught up in science versus religion as an idea we have to live with “and it has blinkered us.” What David Gregory through Divine Windows aims to do is to move into plain view the narrative imagination from which most of the scientific method actually emerges – and therefore create a space where this whole, stagnant debate can be reframed. David believes that this is an unexplored territory and through reframing we will be able to see the fingerprints of God and that will lead to human flourishing.’ \u003cem\u003eMichael Harvey, missional entrepreneur, director ‘God and the Big Bang’\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This book is written in a very accessible and engaging style. But the reader should not be fooled – this is a book full of ingenuity and subtlety of thought, shedding fresh light on familiar debates and opening up telling visual imagery to offer the explorer paths into a deeper appreciation of the wonder of God’s cosmos. Warmly recommended!’ \u003cem\u003eProfessor Christopher Southgate, University of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, spring 2026. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn this intriguing book, Gregory, a Baptist minister with a PhD in Physics, develops the concept that, just as traditional icons in Orthodox worship act as divine windows into the eternal, nature itself can provide us with our own icons as windows into the divine presence. The first five chapters describe how his own scientific career and Christian faith developed in parallel. The sixth chapter reveals his own eight ‘Divine Windows’: star, moon, earth, aurora, dust, life, other worlds and finally cosmos. Each is illustrated with images from NASA’s archives – divine windows from the scientific world – some with a supporting biblical text. Gregory suggests that the worship of our Creator should be nourished by embracing the wonder that can be discerned in our natural world and in our deeper scientific knowledge and understanding of our complex environment. This book will challenge those who see no God behind creation but will delight the rest of us as we celebrate these amazing signs of the unseen presence in our worship and in the care of our world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eRoger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times online 26.11.25. Review by Rob Ellis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eMany of us are familiar with David Gregory’s work in helping us to think about science and faith. The former Baptists Together President has once again skilfully combined his theological know-how with his scientific, and produced here an accessible and attractive book in which he both gives us some reasons to believe that Christianity and science need not be in opposition to one another, and also to understand that the findings of science can be a source of wonder which deepens our appreciation of God and his creation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe result is an excellent little book. BRF, too, are to be congratulated on the design and quality of the publication, which features high quality photographs as a component. Gregory’s hope is to enable many of us to see both faith and science differently, and perhaps provide a fresh way of “inviting people to encounter God” [p. 14].\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe books has two parts. In the first part Gregory sets out some of the theory which will undergird the later material. While this could get fairly technical, Gregory handles matters with a commendable lightness of touch. He explains how, in patterns first begun in the middle ages, people in the western world moved towards ways of looking at the world which tended to reduce the opportunity for us to discern God in and behind the natural world — or anywhere else, for that matter, apart from ‘within.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGregory suggests that science may in fact offer what Peter Berger’s famously described as “signals of transcendence” allowing us to see beyond the surface to the deeper meaning of the world around us, a meaning located in God and the divine purpose. While in the west, some writers have spoken of a sacramental quality in creation which have mitigated this problem, Gregory notes that Eastern traditions of Christianity have sometimes avoided it, most obviously through the use of icons: stylised works of art which may become windows through which we see God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGregory suggests that what is required is that we might approach scientific knowledge rather more like the way we approach art. If we are to ‘re-enchant’ the world, learn to see it as creation rather than just nature, then Gregory suggests we might have to learn to allow our imaginations to be stretched and perceptions of reality to be challenged. Works of art draw us in, make us respond. Art challenges how we see ourselves and the world around us, reshapes the narratives we tell and think we are part of, opens up new possibilities and discloses hidden truths. Art does things to us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDave Gregory is suggesting that we might look at some of the images produced by scientific work in just such a way — and so, be “done to” in a similar way to our encounter with a work of art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe second part of the book offers eight such encounters — eight images produced by scientific exploration which we might see as icons: images through which we catch something of the divine presence and purpose. The images are stunning, and reproduced to a high standard in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIntriguingly, each of the images has been made artificial in some way in order to make them scientifically useful, as scientists use their imaginations to fuse images together or modify colours. So, for instance, we have a triptych of images of the sun taken in different wavelengths of UV light; and a fusing of two images of sunrise and sunset on Mars; and the enhancing of colours in the phytoplankton bloom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eEach of the images comes with Gregory’s commentary, which helps us to look a them with more comprehension. There is some fascinating scientific knowledge shared in these commentaries, as well as the theological or spiritual insights which lift the images from the realm of information to nourishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would think most people who preach regularly would want to get this book if only to snaffle ideas from these ‘windows.’ In places an eco-imperative is gently given: how appreciating a particular aspect of the created order and our place in it ought to make us more aware also of our responsibility for God’s world. But for the most part it is to the elements of playfulness and wonder which Gregory directs us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe windows did their work on this reader. It was Rabbi Lionel Blue who I first heard advise that to teach a child to pray, one first has to teach them wonder. I wondered!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIf Dave Gregory has the appetite and the time, I suspect there is another volume waiting to be written. This book focuses on images of or from space, but there could be other focuses in biology or mathematics, for example. A more detailed theological discussion could also address some of the issues touched upon but not considered in any detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHowever this book is not primarily a theological argument so much as an exercise in learning to see the world as God’s, learning to see nature as creation. Some theory lays a path to the windows, but what Dave Gregory wants to do is help us to look through the windows at creation with new joy and wonder. Job done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rob Ellis, Regent’s Park College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/728616\/Divine_Windows_by.aspx\"\u003ehttps:\/\/baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/728616\/Divine_Windows_by.aspx\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-27T17:38:38+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-27T17:38:38+00:00","vendor":"Dave Gregory","type":"Paperback","tags":["Biblical engagement","Caring for creation","Devotional","Environmental issues","For individuals","KCLC"],"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":55062480683388,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393318","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Divine Windows: Seeing God through the lens of science","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":1299,"weight":240,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393318","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DivineWIndows.jpg?v=1743097145"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DivineWIndows.jpg?v=1743097145","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64267076698492,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.939,"height":1949,"width":1831,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DivineWIndows.jpg?v=1743097145"},"aspect_ratio":0.939,"height":1949,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DivineWIndows.jpg?v=1743097145","width":1831}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\"\u003eDive into Divine Windows – where science and faith meet. Looking through a fresh lens of wonder, play and order, scientist and minister David Gregory invites you to see something of God’s creative hand on the world around us revealed by the creativity of science. Through reflective commentary and an inspiring series of nature and science imagery like those seen in popular documentaries, the shaping of creation by a higher purpose is revealed in the vision of the universe unveiled by science.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDavid Gregory is Baptist Missioner for Science and Environment. He holds a PhD from the University of London in Atmospheric Physics and a degree in Physics and Astrophysics from Leicester University. David is a regular speaker with ‘God and the Big Bang’, exploring science and faith issues with both primary and secondary school students. He also speaks widely at churches, theological colleges and community groups. He is on the grant board of Scientists in Congregations, part of Equipping Christian Leaders in an Age of Science, which supports science and faith projects in local churches.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This book leads the reader through metaphor, wonder and play to a deeper appreciation of science and God. If you have wondered how science and religious faith can be held together, this book is for you.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Bethany Sollereder, lecturer in science and religion, The University of Edinburgh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a book of profound pictures – stunning images of the cosmos coupled with pictures of the wonder and playfulness of being both a scientist and a Christian. David Gregory explodes the myth that science and faith are boring! Rather he stimulates the imagination and engages curiosity to get to a picture of God that is compelling and liberating.’ \u003cem\u003eDavid Wilkinson, professor of theology and religion, Durham University\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘David Gregory doesn’t just argue that science and faith can coexist – he shows us how science can become a sacred lens through which we glimpse the presence of God. As a filmmaker, I believe in the power of image, beauty and story to open hearts and reawaken the imagination. This book does exactly that. It invites the people to rediscover a deeper vision of Christ – not just as the Lord of Sunday mornings, but as the one in whom stars burn, tectonic plates shift and every breath holds divine mystery. This is not just a helpful book. It’s a needed one.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Andy Thomas, Baptist pioneer minister, producer and director, Fuelcast Films\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This is a wonderful book that truly opens divine windows. David Gregory moves effortlessly between science and faith with an easy style that gives the reader confidence to explore these vast topics together. David explores the way art and science interweave and stimulate our imagination to see new horizons. Prepare to be inspired!’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Margot R. Hodson, director of theology and education, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe John Ray Initiative\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Here is an affirmation of the visual and of imagination, awe and wonder in both science and theology… We are given a deep groundwork as preparation for spiritual reflection on scientific images, before being let loose to explore some pictures from astronomy for ourselves, with enough scientific and theological content to fire the imagination. This is a beautiful book to give to thinking friends, family and colleagues, as well as a resource for the church.’ \u003cem\u003eDr Ruth M. Bancewicz, church engagement director, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThis book is delightfully full of the familiar and the unfamiliar. Incredible images and arresting turns of phrase are brought together to give fresh perspectives around the intermingling of science, theology and the arts. It is most worthy of your time, your attention… and your spirit. Take up its invitation to dwell in all the richness and beauty that being a creature alive in God’s creation involves today!’ \u003cem\u003eDr Gavin Merrifield, general secretary of Christians in Science\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Using his studies and experience of both science and theology David Gregory gives useful reflections to aid the praise and worship of our creator and the creator of the whole cosmos. David helpfully encourages us to use our imagination and powers of observation in discovering the infinite love of the creator, the creator’s genius and invention displayed through design and ever fresh novelty and originality, wisdom, order and playfulness of creation… I believe that this book will help many in their contemplation and worship.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr John Weaver, former principle of Cardiff Baptist College and vice president of The John Ray Initiative\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘We have all got caught up in science versus religion as an idea we have to live with “and it has blinkered us.” What David Gregory through Divine Windows aims to do is to move into plain view the narrative imagination from which most of the scientific method actually emerges – and therefore create a space where this whole, stagnant debate can be reframed. David believes that this is an unexplored territory and through reframing we will be able to see the fingerprints of God and that will lead to human flourishing.’ \u003cem\u003eMichael Harvey, missional entrepreneur, director ‘God and the Big Bang’\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘This book is written in a very accessible and engaging style. But the reader should not be fooled – this is a book full of ingenuity and subtlety of thought, shedding fresh light on familiar debates and opening up telling visual imagery to offer the explorer paths into a deeper appreciation of the wonder of God’s cosmos. Warmly recommended!’ \u003cem\u003eProfessor Christopher Southgate, University of Exeter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, spring 2026. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn this intriguing book, Gregory, a Baptist minister with a PhD in Physics, develops the concept that, just as traditional icons in Orthodox worship act as divine windows into the eternal, nature itself can provide us with our own icons as windows into the divine presence. The first five chapters describe how his own scientific career and Christian faith developed in parallel. The sixth chapter reveals his own eight ‘Divine Windows’: star, moon, earth, aurora, dust, life, other worlds and finally cosmos. Each is illustrated with images from NASA’s archives – divine windows from the scientific world – some with a supporting biblical text. Gregory suggests that the worship of our Creator should be nourished by embracing the wonder that can be discerned in our natural world and in our deeper scientific knowledge and understanding of our complex environment. This book will challenge those who see no God behind creation but will delight the rest of us as we celebrate these amazing signs of the unseen presence in our worship and in the care of our world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eRoger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times online 26.11.25. Review by Rob Ellis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eMany of us are familiar with David Gregory’s work in helping us to think about science and faith. The former Baptists Together President has once again skilfully combined his theological know-how with his scientific, and produced here an accessible and attractive book in which he both gives us some reasons to believe that Christianity and science need not be in opposition to one another, and also to understand that the findings of science can be a source of wonder which deepens our appreciation of God and his creation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe result is an excellent little book. BRF, too, are to be congratulated on the design and quality of the publication, which features high quality photographs as a component. Gregory’s hope is to enable many of us to see both faith and science differently, and perhaps provide a fresh way of “inviting people to encounter God” [p. 14].\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe books has two parts. In the first part Gregory sets out some of the theory which will undergird the later material. While this could get fairly technical, Gregory handles matters with a commendable lightness of touch. He explains how, in patterns first begun in the middle ages, people in the western world moved towards ways of looking at the world which tended to reduce the opportunity for us to discern God in and behind the natural world — or anywhere else, for that matter, apart from ‘within.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGregory suggests that science may in fact offer what Peter Berger’s famously described as “signals of transcendence” allowing us to see beyond the surface to the deeper meaning of the world around us, a meaning located in God and the divine purpose. While in the west, some writers have spoken of a sacramental quality in creation which have mitigated this problem, Gregory notes that Eastern traditions of Christianity have sometimes avoided it, most obviously through the use of icons: stylised works of art which may become windows through which we see God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGregory suggests that what is required is that we might approach scientific knowledge rather more like the way we approach art. If we are to ‘re-enchant’ the world, learn to see it as creation rather than just nature, then Gregory suggests we might have to learn to allow our imaginations to be stretched and perceptions of reality to be challenged. Works of art draw us in, make us respond. Art challenges how we see ourselves and the world around us, reshapes the narratives we tell and think we are part of, opens up new possibilities and discloses hidden truths. Art does things to us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDave Gregory is suggesting that we might look at some of the images produced by scientific work in just such a way — and so, be “done to” in a similar way to our encounter with a work of art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe second part of the book offers eight such encounters — eight images produced by scientific exploration which we might see as icons: images through which we catch something of the divine presence and purpose. The images are stunning, and reproduced to a high standard in the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIntriguingly, each of the images has been made artificial in some way in order to make them scientifically useful, as scientists use their imaginations to fuse images together or modify colours. So, for instance, we have a triptych of images of the sun taken in different wavelengths of UV light; and a fusing of two images of sunrise and sunset on Mars; and the enhancing of colours in the phytoplankton bloom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eEach of the images comes with Gregory’s commentary, which helps us to look a them with more comprehension. There is some fascinating scientific knowledge shared in these commentaries, as well as the theological or spiritual insights which lift the images from the realm of information to nourishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would think most people who preach regularly would want to get this book if only to snaffle ideas from these ‘windows.’ In places an eco-imperative is gently given: how appreciating a particular aspect of the created order and our place in it ought to make us more aware also of our responsibility for God’s world. But for the most part it is to the elements of playfulness and wonder which Gregory directs us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe windows did their work on this reader. It was Rabbi Lionel Blue who I first heard advise that to teach a child to pray, one first has to teach them wonder. I wondered!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIf Dave Gregory has the appetite and the time, I suspect there is another volume waiting to be written. This book focuses on images of or from space, but there could be other focuses in biology or mathematics, for example. A more detailed theological discussion could also address some of the issues touched upon but not considered in any detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHowever this book is not primarily a theological argument so much as an exercise in learning to see the world as God’s, learning to see nature as creation. Some theory lays a path to the windows, but what Dave Gregory wants to do is help us to look through the windows at creation with new joy and wonder. Job done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rob Ellis, Regent’s Park College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/728616\/Divine_Windows_by.aspx\"\u003ehttps:\/\/baptist.org.uk\/Articles\/728616\/Divine_Windows_by.aspx\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Divine Windows: Seeing God through the lens of science
£12.99
Dive into Divine Windows – where science and faith meet. Looking through a fresh lens of wonder, play and order,...
{"id":15144460124540,"title":"Donkey Roads and Camel Treks: A pilgrim’s guide for Advent","handle":"donkey-roads-and-camel-treks-a-pilgrim-s-guide-for-advent","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe lectionary readings for Advent speak of making a straight path towards God, but many of us find our own route decidedly winding. Biblical characters in the story of the incarnation are called to set out on the road to discipleship using any means of carriage they can. This book offers user-friendly encouragement (with the occasional spur onwards) to explore what helps and what hinders us in this journey to deeper encounter with the flesh and blood God whom we find in scripture, in our lived experience and in the least of his sisters and brothers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGemma Simmonds is a Roman Catholic sister of the Congregation of Jesus. An ecumenical canon of the Church in Wales, she has trained candidates for religious life and ordination in the Catholic and Anglican churches, working as a spiritual director and retreat giver for over 30 years. She is a regular broadcaster on religious matters on the BBC and other radio and television networks, and speaks internationally. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Donkey Roads and Camel Treks is a wonderful, witty and deeply pastoral journey through Advent. Gemma draws us into the heart of the story with gentleness and challenge in equal measure, closer to the God who holds us with tenderness and leads us into transformation.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Preb Dr Isabelle Hamley, principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge and author of Embracing Humanity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Advent is a time of great anticipation, and as Gemma says in her charming, inspiring and frequently profound new book, one of her favourite times of year. But what happens when all our plans for a spiritual Advent, filled with deep prayer and peaceful meditation, run into the reality of our often complicated and complex lives? In these beautifully written and artfully presented meditations, Gemma reminds us that the first Christmas also took place in a complicated and complex world, and that God is ready to accompany us in our messy lives, whether we’re in a car, at our desk, in our living room or, yes, atop a camel.’ \u003cem\u003eJames Martin, SJ, author of Learning to Pray\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘An attractive and inspiring travel invitation. I immediately wanted to get a special journal to walk with the reflections through Advent. The questions at the end of each section are real gems – places to pause to consider the invitations hidden in the reflections. Indeed, the journey might even be richer if shared with a group of friends.’ \u003cem\u003eBernadette Flanagan, spiritual director and co-founder of The Spirituality Institute for Research and Education\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Whether you want to find fresh ways to connect with God, with each other, with nature or with your own deepest desires, this book will inspire you. I do not know a wiser spiritual guide to ordinary Christian living than Gemma Simmonds. Here, from her life of immersion in prayer, wisdom-seeking, formation of individuals and communities, and practical service in some extremely demanding situations, she offers a deeply attractive distillation, focused through key biblical texts. This is far more than an imaginative, thoughtful and practical way to approach Christmas; it gives the essentials for a lifetime following Jesus.’ \u003cem\u003eDavid F. Ford OBE, Regius professor of divinity emeritus, Selwyn College, University of Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times Advent books round up by Peter McGeary 24.10.2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAn experienced spiritual director and broadcaster, Gemma Simmonds is a Roman Catholic theologian and religious, with ecumenical interests in the Church in Wales and the Community of St Anselm at Lambeth Palace. \u003ci\u003eDonkey Roads and Camel Treks\u003c\/i\u003e is her latest offering. There is a strong sense in this book of movement, pilgrimage, going forward to meet the Lord; and this is inspired in no small part by memories of a pilgrimage in the Holy Land in 2019. There is the familiar format of meditation, questions, and prayer, but, in addition, the biblical passages for each day are printed out in full, thus making the book much more valuable for those needing something more portable. Suggestions for group use are included. Full marks again to BRF for print quality: this does actually matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Peter McGeary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eReview by Richard Frost., author of \u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ca name=\"_Hlk47607762\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is the best Advent book I have read in a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn fact, that one line could almost be the extent of this review!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGemma Simmonds has provided a deeply enriching set of daily readings to guide us the rough and smooth terrain, the donkey roads and camel treks, that is often the period leading up to Christmas. From the outset, the author makes it clear that, like riding a camel or a donkey, the reflections she offers in this pilgrim’s guide for Advent may not always be comfortable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHer own experience of the season reflects that. On the one hand, she expresses a positive liking for the period of Advent but also, like many of us I suspect, a profound dislike of all the ‘stuff’ that goes with Christmas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAdvent is often seen as a time of waiting. ‘The fact that it (Christmas) hasn’t come yet isn’t bad news of frustration…but good news of our capacity for growth,’ she writes. ‘That capacity is what fuels our desire for God, and the waiting can actually increase our capacity.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDrawing on a wealth of theological and biblical knowledge, Gemma Simmonds conveys it in a non-academic, relatable way. With daily reflections running from 1-25 December, each begins with a Bible passage and offers a variety of ways and examples to explore the theme for the day. Refreshingly, the author uses modern-day examples to do this – often referring to the day to day of 2025 living, movies, care for creation, shopping and other contemporary issues, joys and challenges alongside some powerful stories of human experience. There is time for personal reflection and group discussion material too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOn this pilgrim’s journey, we are encouraged to be ‘revolutionaries of tenderness’. This is a book which is relevant for today and I for one will be using it in the coming time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\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. He is also the author of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003esix \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eother books\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-28T09:29:49+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-28T09:29:49+00:00","vendor":"Gemma Simmonds","type":"Paperback","tags":["Advent","Biblical engagement","Christmas","KCLC","seasonal"],"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":55064878383484,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393479","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Donkey Roads and Camel Treks: A pilgrim’s guide for Advent","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":999,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393479","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DonkeyRoadsandCamelTreks.jpg?v=1743153484"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DonkeyRoadsandCamelTreks.jpg?v=1743153484","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":64271404138876,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"width":1535,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DonkeyRoadsandCamelTreks.jpg?v=1743153484"},"aspect_ratio":0.656,"height":2339,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/DonkeyRoadsandCamelTreks.jpg?v=1743153484","width":1535}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe lectionary readings for Advent speak of making a straight path towards God, but many of us find our own route decidedly winding. Biblical characters in the story of the incarnation are called to set out on the road to discipleship using any means of carriage they can. This book offers user-friendly encouragement (with the occasional spur onwards) to explore what helps and what hinders us in this journey to deeper encounter with the flesh and blood God whom we find in scripture, in our lived experience and in the least of his sisters and brothers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGemma Simmonds is a Roman Catholic sister of the Congregation of Jesus. An ecumenical canon of the Church in Wales, she has trained candidates for religious life and ordination in the Catholic and Anglican churches, working as a spiritual director and retreat giver for over 30 years. She is a regular broadcaster on religious matters on the BBC and other radio and television networks, and speaks internationally. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Donkey Roads and Camel Treks is a wonderful, witty and deeply pastoral journey through Advent. Gemma draws us into the heart of the story with gentleness and challenge in equal measure, closer to the God who holds us with tenderness and leads us into transformation.’ \u003cem\u003eThe Revd Preb Dr Isabelle Hamley, principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge and author of Embracing Humanity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Advent is a time of great anticipation, and as Gemma says in her charming, inspiring and frequently profound new book, one of her favourite times of year. But what happens when all our plans for a spiritual Advent, filled with deep prayer and peaceful meditation, run into the reality of our often complicated and complex lives? In these beautifully written and artfully presented meditations, Gemma reminds us that the first Christmas also took place in a complicated and complex world, and that God is ready to accompany us in our messy lives, whether we’re in a car, at our desk, in our living room or, yes, atop a camel.’ \u003cem\u003eJames Martin, SJ, author of Learning to Pray\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘An attractive and inspiring travel invitation. I immediately wanted to get a special journal to walk with the reflections through Advent. The questions at the end of each section are real gems – places to pause to consider the invitations hidden in the reflections. Indeed, the journey might even be richer if shared with a group of friends.’ \u003cem\u003eBernadette Flanagan, spiritual director and co-founder of The Spirituality Institute for Research and Education\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e‘Whether you want to find fresh ways to connect with God, with each other, with nature or with your own deepest desires, this book will inspire you. I do not know a wiser spiritual guide to ordinary Christian living than Gemma Simmonds. Here, from her life of immersion in prayer, wisdom-seeking, formation of individuals and communities, and practical service in some extremely demanding situations, she offers a deeply attractive distillation, focused through key biblical texts. This is far more than an imaginative, thoughtful and practical way to approach Christmas; it gives the essentials for a lifetime following Jesus.’ \u003cem\u003eDavid F. Ford OBE, Regius professor of divinity emeritus, Selwyn College, University of Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times Advent books round up by Peter McGeary 24.10.2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAn experienced spiritual director and broadcaster, Gemma Simmonds is a Roman Catholic theologian and religious, with ecumenical interests in the Church in Wales and the Community of St Anselm at Lambeth Palace. \u003ci\u003eDonkey Roads and Camel Treks\u003c\/i\u003e is her latest offering. There is a strong sense in this book of movement, pilgrimage, going forward to meet the Lord; and this is inspired in no small part by memories of a pilgrimage in the Holy Land in 2019. There is the familiar format of meditation, questions, and prayer, but, in addition, the biblical passages for each day are printed out in full, thus making the book much more valuable for those needing something more portable. Suggestions for group use are included. Full marks again to BRF for print quality: this does actually matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Peter McGeary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eReview by Richard Frost., author of \u003cem\u003eLife with St Benedict.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ca name=\"_Hlk47607762\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is the best Advent book I have read in a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn fact, that one line could almost be the extent of this review!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGemma Simmonds has provided a deeply enriching set of daily readings to guide us the rough and smooth terrain, the donkey roads and camel treks, that is often the period leading up to Christmas. From the outset, the author makes it clear that, like riding a camel or a donkey, the reflections she offers in this pilgrim’s guide for Advent may not always be comfortable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHer own experience of the season reflects that. On the one hand, she expresses a positive liking for the period of Advent but also, like many of us I suspect, a profound dislike of all the ‘stuff’ that goes with Christmas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAdvent is often seen as a time of waiting. ‘The fact that it (Christmas) hasn’t come yet isn’t bad news of frustration…but good news of our capacity for growth,’ she writes. ‘That capacity is what fuels our desire for God, and the waiting can actually increase our capacity.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eDrawing on a wealth of theological and biblical knowledge, Gemma Simmonds conveys it in a non-academic, relatable way. With daily reflections running from 1-25 December, each begins with a Bible passage and offers a variety of ways and examples to explore the theme for the day. Refreshingly, the author uses modern-day examples to do this – often referring to the day to day of 2025 living, movies, care for creation, shopping and other contemporary issues, joys and challenges alongside some powerful stories of human experience. There is time for personal reflection and group discussion material too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOn this pilgrim’s journey, we are encouraged to be ‘revolutionaries of tenderness’. This is a book which is relevant for today and I for one will be using it in the coming time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\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. He is also the author of \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003esix \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eother books\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Donkey Roads and Camel Treks: A pilgrim’s guide for Advent
£9.99
The lectionary readings for Advent speak of making a straight path towards God, but many of us find our own...
{"id":15144910160252,"title":"New Daylight Deluxe edition September-December 2025","handle":"new-daylight-deluxe-edition-september-december-2025","description":"\u003cp\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2 Thessalonians – David Walker\u003cbr\u003ePeter – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003cbr\u003eZephaniah – Murdo Macdonald\u003cbr\u003eAnimals of the Bible – Tim Heaton\u003cbr\u003eColossians – Jane Walters\u003cbr\u003eGod the avenger: Psalm 73—78 – Veronica Zundel\u003cbr\u003eJonah, the reluctant prophet – Amanda Bloor\u003cbr\u003eThe God who dwells – Inderjit Bhogal\u003cbr\u003eMalachi – Catherine Williams\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Advent – Paul Gravelle\u003cbr\u003eLuke’s Christmas – David Runcorn\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Christmas – Sally Welch\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEditor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGordon Giles\u003c\/strong\u003e is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including Comings and Goings and At Home in Lent for BRF.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-28T12:42:35+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-28T12:42:35+00:00","vendor":"Editor: Gordon Giles","type":"BRN","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","New Daylight Deluxe"],"price":650,"price_min":650,"price_max":650,"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":55065439338876,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393585","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"New Daylight Deluxe edition September-December 2025","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":650,"weight":298,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393585","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/NewDaylight_Sep25_e2595901-6c7e-4f1b-b0f9-fc55ce768a1f.jpg?v=1754468314"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/NewDaylight_Sep25_e2595901-6c7e-4f1b-b0f9-fc55ce768a1f.jpg?v=1754468314","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":65556406043004,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/NewDaylight_Sep25_e2595901-6c7e-4f1b-b0f9-fc55ce768a1f.jpg?v=1754468314"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/NewDaylight_Sep25_e2595901-6c7e-4f1b-b0f9-fc55ce768a1f.jpg?v=1754468314","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2 Thessalonians – David Walker\u003cbr\u003ePeter – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003cbr\u003eZephaniah – Murdo Macdonald\u003cbr\u003eAnimals of the Bible – Tim Heaton\u003cbr\u003eColossians – Jane Walters\u003cbr\u003eGod the avenger: Psalm 73—78 – Veronica Zundel\u003cbr\u003eJonah, the reluctant prophet – Amanda Bloor\u003cbr\u003eThe God who dwells – Inderjit Bhogal\u003cbr\u003eMalachi – Catherine Williams\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Advent – Paul Gravelle\u003cbr\u003eLuke’s Christmas – David Runcorn\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Christmas – Sally Welch\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEditor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGordon Giles\u003c\/strong\u003e is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including Comings and Goings and At Home in Lent for BRF.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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New Daylight Deluxe edition September-December 2025
£6.50
Each issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from...
{"id":15144915009916,"title":"New Daylight September-December 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible","handle":"new-daylight-september-december-2025-sustaining-your-daily-journey-with-the-bible","description":"\u003cp\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2 Thessalonians – David Walker\u003cbr\u003ePeter – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003cbr\u003eZephaniah – Murdo Macdonald\u003cbr\u003eAnimals of the Bible – Tim Heaton\u003cbr\u003eColossians – Jane Walters\u003cbr\u003eGod the avenger: Psalm 73—78 – Veronica Zundel\u003cbr\u003eJonah, the reluctant prophet – Amanda Bloor\u003cbr\u003eThe God who dwells – Inderjit Bhogal\u003cbr\u003eMalachi – Catherine Williams\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Advent – Paul Gravelle\u003cbr\u003eLuke’s Christmas – David Runcorn\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Christmas – Sally Welch\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including Comings and Goings and At Home in Lent for BRF.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-03-28T12:45:27+00:00","created_at":"2025-03-28T12:45:27+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"BRN","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","KCLC","New Daylight","Prayer"],"price":525,"price_min":525,"price_max":525,"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":55065443205500,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393554","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"New Daylight September-December 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":525,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393554","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_Sep25.jpg?v=1753694579"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_Sep25.jpg?v=1753694579","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":65463678402940,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"width":1417,"src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_Sep25.jpg?v=1753694579"},"aspect_ratio":0.719,"height":1972,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfresources.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/New_Daylight_Sep25.jpg?v=1753694579","width":1417}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTopics and contributors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2 Thessalonians – David Walker\u003cbr\u003ePeter – Lakshmi Jeffreys\u003cbr\u003eZephaniah – Murdo Macdonald\u003cbr\u003eAnimals of the Bible – Tim Heaton\u003cbr\u003eColossians – Jane Walters\u003cbr\u003eGod the avenger: Psalm 73—78 – Veronica Zundel\u003cbr\u003eJonah, the reluctant prophet – Amanda Bloor\u003cbr\u003eThe God who dwells – Inderjit Bhogal\u003cbr\u003eMalachi – Catherine Williams\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Advent – Paul Gravelle\u003cbr\u003eLuke’s Christmas – David Runcorn\u003cbr\u003eMatthew’s Christmas – Sally Welch\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEditor info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGordon Giles is Canon Chancellor of Rochester Cathedral. He is the author of several books, including Comings and Goings and At Home in Lent for BRF.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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New Daylight September-December 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible
£5.25
Each issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from...