Deuteronomy 10:12-11:32 is a very important text for the book of Deuteronomy. However, it has not received an adequate exegetical treatment so far. The present study intends to meet this need. Following a synchronic approach Thomas Karimundackal examines the text exegetically and theologically in its context. He analyzes the text extensively by referring to its intense relationships within Deuteronomy and with other biblical books. He shows how Deuteronomy 10:12-11:32 serves as a hermeneutical key to understand and interpret the theology of Deuteronomy. As a transitional passage, it connects the former framework and the Law Code in Deuteronomy, and thus forms a bridge. In addition, it is repeatedly connected to the latter framework of Deuteronomy, and thus proves to be a hermeneutical key to the book. From a theological point of view, the unique statements about God in Deut 10 stand out. The author also reflects on the role of the community and the contemporary relevance of the text.
By surpassing most traditional commentaries, Lane's work unveils Hebrews as a sermon rendered by a concerned "preacher" to his Roman church, which is under persecution and dangerously close to rejecting the faith. As as exposition of encouragement and exhortation, Hebrews addresses the central concerns of our contemporary church as well: the felt absence of God, a climate of uncertainty and insecurity, the tension between secular conformity and spiritual maturity and the threat of societal perversion and materialism to a Christian commitment. Christians are called upon to express a faith that is rooted in the future and to continue this life of pilgrimage with a radical new view of reality, which is based on sure confidence in the intervention of God in daily life. Tracing the writer's development thought by thought, rather than verse by verse, careful attention is paid to the cultural and historical background. This work is useful as a study guide for groups and individuals, or for any reader who wishes a mature understanding of the book of Hebrews.
We regularly attend church, know the hymns by heart, and teach our children about Jesus. We are doing the right things. So why do we feel so empty? Although Jesus promised His followers an abundant life, many Christians struggle with a lack of purpose, fulfillment, and zeal. Underneath all of their Christian activity, they feel cold and, at times, confused about the place and prominence of Jesus Christ in their inner lives. The problem, according to Crawford Loritts, is that we've lost our sense of purpose. While we may have a general sense of direction, we have assumed that somehow we can work out the details or that everything will just fall into place. While we outwardly conform to what we say we believe, we privately confess that we know God wants and deserves more from us. A Passionate Commitment will help you understand God's purpose for your life by challenging the things the world teaches you to hold dear. Crawford Loritts will help you revive your passionate commitment to the God of the universe.
The Cape Town Commitment, which arose from The Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization (Cape Town, 2010), stands in the historic line of The Lausanne Covenant (1974) and The Manila Manifesto (1989). It has been translated into twenty-five languages and has commanded wide acceptance around the world. The Commitment is set in two parts. Part 1 is a Confession of Faith, crafted in the language of covenantal love. Part 2 is a Call to Action. The local church, mission agencies, special-interest groups, and Christians in the professions are all urged to find their place in its outworking. This annotated bibliography of The Cape Town Commitment, arranged by topic, has been compiled by specialists in a range of fields. As such, it is the first bibliography of its kind. Arranged in sections for graduate-level teaching Equally useful for research students
The Cape Town Commitment presents a statement of shared Biblical convictions, and calls Christians from all over the world to action. This Study Edition includes additional commentary and questions for further reflection.
The issue is church health, not church growth—if your church is healthy, growth will occur naturally. So how do we make healthy churches, driven by purpose? In order for any church to thrive, it must be built around the five New Testament purposes given to the church by Jesus Christ. In this classic of Christian church stability, pastor and bestselling author of The Purpose Driven Life Rick Warren unpacks this proven five-part strategy that will enable your church to grow: Warmer through fellowship. Deeper through discipleship. Stronger through worship. Broader through ministry. Larger through evangelism. Every church is driven by something. Tradition, finances, programs, personalities, events, seekers, and even buildings can each be the controlling force in a church. But Warren will show you how to concentrate on building people and let God build the church. In other words, healthy, consistent growth is the result of balancing the five biblical purposes of the church. And The Purpose Driven Church will show you how to do that. “The Purpose Driven Church has brought focus and direction to more pastors and church leaders than you can count. What a gift!”—John Ortberg, bestselling author.
Six studies, based on Robert Boyd Munger's classic of Christian commitment, My Heart--Christ's Home, offer an imaginative approach to help you see your life as Jesus might.
Not a Fan has already called more than one million readers to consider the demands and rewards of being a true disciple--moving from fan to follower in their relationship with Jesus. After years of serving God, pastor and bestselling author Kyle Idleman had a startling revelation: for too long, he had been living as a fan of Jesus; someone who tried to make Christianity seem as appealing, comfortable, and convenient as he possibly could to others. Idleman decided something had to change--he needed to embark on the journey of becoming a completely committed follower of God, not just a fan. Fans want to be close enough to Jesus to get all the benefits, but not so close that it requires sacrifice, while followers are all in and completely committed to Christ. Not a Fan gives you the tools you need to determine exactly where you stand when it comes to your relationship with Jesus. No matter where you are in your walk with Christ, Not a Fan calls you to consider the demands and rewards of being a true disciple. With frankness and a touch of humor, Idleman invites you to: Examine your relationship with God Determine if you're following Jesus or just following the rules Pray the way Jesus prayed Start truly living for the one who gave his all for you This expanded and updated version of Not a Fan also includes a new introduction and an entirely new chapter about how to practically live out the book's core message. Join Idleman as he challenges you to take an honest look at your relationship with Jesus and discover what it really means to be a follower.
According to White, the cost of following Jesus is not cheap. The cost is substantial, but the benefits, rewards, and joys that come with a commitment to Him are well worth it.