Introducing the New Testament

Introducing the New Testament

Author: Paul J. Achtemeier

Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing

Published: 2001-08-10

Total Pages: 644

ISBN-13: 9780802837172

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Explores the literature of the New Testament of the Bible, highlighting the many messages contained within the text and outlining issues that can be discussed by heralding these messages. Also provides background of the time period and locations in which the New Testament was written.


Of Seeds and the People of God

Of Seeds and the People of God

Author: Michael P. Knowles

Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers

Published: 2015-02-06

Total Pages: 288

ISBN-13: 163087874X

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Preachers mount the pulpit steps terribly burdened by the conviction that they are somehow responsible for the growth and spiritual well-being of their congregants. How, they ask themselves, can mere words communicate the reality of God, bring life to a congregation, or foster spiritual growth? This study argues that effective sermons function much like Jesus' parables--by bearing witness to divine power. Parables and preaching both testify to something beyond themselves: to a life-giving dynamic that far outstrips the force of words alone. Preachers are not go-betweens or gatekeepers for the kingdom of heaven: rather, they imitate Jesus by dying to themselves in the very act of proclamation, relying directly on God for their sermons to bear fruit. As well as offering a novel interpretation of Jesus' agricultural parables, Of Seeds and the People of God presents a Christ-shaped theology of preaching. Beyond exegesis or rhetoric alone, faithful proclamation is a question of spirituality, of preachers and listeners together yielding to God's gift of new life.