In Making Sense of Scripture, David Lose invites the reader to engage in a conversation, one that he imagines discussing around his kitchen table, about seven major questions of the Bible. More than a standard biblical reference book, Making Sense of Scripture is a dialogue that encourages readers to bring their questions or doubts to the table when reading Scripture. During this conversation, there are different opportunities for the reader to interact with the Bible, ultimately leaving room for personal transformation of the heart and mind.

Do you want to understand Jesus of Nazareth, his apostles, and the rise of early Christianity? Reading the Old Testament is not enough, writes Matthias Henze in this slender volume aimed at the student of the Bible. To understand the Jews of the Second Temple period, it's essential to read what they wrote-and what Jesus and his followers might have read-beyond the Hebrew scriptures. Henze introduces the four-century gap between the Old and New Testaments and some of the writings produced during this period (different Old Testaments, the Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha, the Dead Sea Scrolls); discusses how these texts have been read from the Reformation to the present, emphasizing the importance of the discovery of Qumran; guides the student's encounter with select texts from each collection; and then introduces key ideas found in specific New Testament texts that simply can't be understood without these early Jewish intertestamental writings-the Messiah, angels and demons, the law, and the resurrection of the dead. Finally, he discusses the role of these writings in the parting of the ways between Judaism and Christianity. Mind the Gap broadens curious students' perspectives on early Judaism and early Christianity and welcomes them to deeper study.

Lutheran Study Biblefeatures the NRSV translation as well as introductions, notes, and articles written by more than sixty Lutheran pastors and teaching theologians. This resource is designed to invite readers to experience the Bible and its message through solid background material, unique Lutheran insights, and opportunities for faith reflection. Reader-friendly, inviting, and engaging, this is the perfect study Bible for those who want to encounter Scripture in a fresh and new way!

Lutheran Study Bibleincludes four types of study notes:

> The World of the Bible notes explore the historical, cultural, and geographic background of a particular passage.

Biblical Concepts explain key words or themes in the context of other parts of Scripture.

Lutheran Perspectives highlight Lutheran theological insights and catechetical connections drawn from particular passages.

Faith Reflections provide commentary and questions that encourage life application.

Lutheran Study Biblecontains 10-point biblical text and 7-point study notes. See the chart of Bible Type Sizes below for comparison of type point size.

Now children everywhere can share some peaceful moments with this new collection of activity prayers and quiet conversations with God.

Charming full-color illustrations by well-known illustrator Nancy Munger combine with well-loved, traditional songs to enhance bedtime rituals.

As one of the most prolific writers of the Bible and a major leader in the formation of the early church, Saint Paul is often considered the greatest influencer after Jesus in the history of Christianity. He also remains one of the more controversial figures--celebrated by some for his work in spreading the Christian message and criticized by others for promoting what they consider to be a lofty, complex version of it. What we do know, however, is that Paul played an unarguably significant role in the growth of the church, bringing Jesus's message far beyond previous reach.

In this companion title to its well-established forerunner In the Steps of Jesus, Peter Walker uses his expertise in biblical studies and his extensive experience leading tours around the Mediterranean to bring the world of Saint Paul vividly to life. Following Luke's account in the Book of Acts as well as evidence from Paul's own letters, Walker reconstructs the apostle's wide-ranging travels and describes the many places Paul visited as readers would encounter them today. In doing so, he brings to light the issues that Paul confronted in the growing church and helps readers understand the motivation that drove Paul to continue his mission. Enriched with maps, street plans, timelines, and boxed features highlighting special topics of interest, In the Steps of Saint Paul is an ideal introduction to Paul and his travels for scholars and history enthusiasts at all levels of study.

Martin Luther's conception of the Nativity found expression in sermon, song, and art. This beautiful new gift edition of a classic collection combines all three.

Luther vividly portrays the human realism of the Nativity: Mary's distress at giving birth with no midwife or water; Joseph's misgivings; the Wise Men's perplexity; and Herod's cunning.

Throughout, Luther suggests the question: If we had lived in Bethlehem when Jesus was born, would we have believed that this newborn baby was God in human form? And he reminds us that keeping Christmas is a year-around mission of caring for those in need.

Nine elegant illustrations by Luther's contemporaries capture timeless scenes from the Christmas story.

This treasure is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas in light of the Reformation 500 anniversary!

Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature, having authored twelve best-selling books, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. In this slim volume the legendary wisdom of this American poet, educator, historian, actress, director, and civil-rights activist is clearly evident in her own words. Editor Donna Schaper selects forty inspiring passages for readers to ponder while taking a spiritual journey with Maya Angelou. Such a journey may be made at any time but, as with other titles in the 40-Day Journey series, is especially inspiring to take in the seasons of Advent and Lent.

Award-winning theologian Sallie McFague here develops a striking and novel vision of the universe, one that takes seriously and radically both contemporary science and the incarnational commitments of the Christian tradition.

Jrgen Moltmann formulates necessary questions about the significance of Jesus the Christ for persons today. He offers a compelling portrait of the earthly Jesus as the divine brother in our distress and suffering and points to the risen Christ as the warrant for the future in which God will restore everything . . . and gather everything into his kingdom. Urging that acknowledgment of Christ and discipleship are two sides of the same coin, Moltmann contends that the question of Jesus Christ for today is not just an intellectual one. Moltmann takes fresh approaches to a number of crucial topics: Jesus and the kingdom of God, the passion of Christ and the pain of God, Jesus as brother of the tortured, and the resurrection of Christ as hope for the world, the cosmic Christ, Jesus in Jewish-Christian dialogue, the future of God, and others.

The discipline of preaching has undergone several evolutionary momentsin the past century, focusing on its purpose as being variouslypersuasion, explanation, and, most recently, communication. Ofparticular and lingering influence has been Harry Emerson Fosdick'spreaching as counseling model, which urged therapeutic, individualistic methods upon the pastor. In the search for a model ofpreaching that is apt for our postmodern moment, Kay Northcuttrespectfully eschews these earlier models and suggests that the whatof preaching should consist in spiritual formation or the practice ofspiritual direction - pointing listeners to God. Taking an evocative, rather than how-to, approach, Northcutt notes the gaps created by these earlier models and makes a case not only for framing preaching as an attractive art but also for understanding the preacher'sauthority as particularly religious in nature. By demonstrating thedynamics of her model of preaching as spiritual direction, the authorprovides readers with a new paradigm for developing their ownhomiletical discipline.

The Gift to Listen, the Courage to Hear interweaves listening techniques with spiritual principles that emphasize the importance of listening and provide a framework for more effective listening. Author Cari Jackson explores common causes of communication breakdowns and offers strategies for moving toward communication breakthroughs. This book will deepen the rewards of every type of human relationship.

Drawing on stories of biblical women, Leading Ladies presents four models of transformational leadership that recognize the leadership styles of women in all walks of life: Intercessor, Midwife, Choreographer, and Weaver. Includes reflective questions for journaling or group discussion.

Each year, 12 million Americans experience the death of a parent. Even when the death is expected, the loss presents both unique challenges and opportunities for personal spiritual growth. When Your Parent Dies is a brief, focused book that guides adults through this difficult time. The author shows how the resources of faith can help a grieving person move forward in life to find hope and healing.

Howard Thurman was an influential American author, philosopher, theologian, educator, and civil rights leader. Strongly influenced by his grandmother, a former slave, who raised him and a Quaker mystic under whom he studied, Thurman adopted a philosophy of activism rooted in faith, guided by spirit, and maintained in peace. Editor Donna Schaper selects forty inspiring passages from the works of this spiritual advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to accompany readers on their own spiritual journeys. Ideal for traveling through the seasons of Advent and Lent.

One of the absolute best books ever written about prayer that will help strengthen your spiritual life and your relationship with God.

A Christian classic that is a must-read for those wanting to understand prayer, its purpose, and its power. Originally written in 1931 this powerful read remains overwhelmingly relevant for today's reader. Author Ole Hallesby understands the complexity and the simplicity of prayer, relaying that Prayer is not using God for our own means but rather prayer is dependence, openness, trust, and listening.

In Prayer: Expanded Edition, the author explains different forms of prayer as helpful touch points, and he doesn't shy away from discussing the difficulties of prayer, prayer being work, wrestling in prayer, and the misuse of prayer. This eye-opening and refreshing narrative brings focus back to God's intentional desire to listen and richly bless his children with peace and joy. A helpful study guide in the back of the book helps readers get the most out of Hallesby's insightful text, allowing the book to be used for personal meditation or group study.