Every child of God is pursuing a deeper relationship with the Father. We know this includes daily bible study, sincere prayer, and taking control of our time to use our lives more fully for His will. But life is busy, and we are so easily distracted. What if we maximized our effort by starting every day with concentrated, productive focus on God and on things that matter most?
The Daily Bible Devotional is designed to help you experience Bible reading on a deeper and more applicable level. Following each chapter of Scripture, this companion tool will explore each day's reading in four ways: A recap of the content of the text, personal applications from the chapter, a prayer based on the study, and a few thought questions to consider throughout the day.
Kris Emerson has been preaching the gospel since 2001 and currently hosts the Excel Still More podcast. He is dedicated to helping believers excel in their faith and life by connecting more deeply and personally with God.
Hurt. Anger. Pain. Bitterness. These emotions can hold us captive, driving us further from the peace and joy God desires for us. In Forgiveness: Living Out the High Calling of Our Faith, Clay Gentry explores the power of forgiveness through a rich, scripture-based exploration. Drawing on biblical wisdom and practical insights, this book guides readers to embrace the depth of God's forgiveness. You will learn how to overcome personal barriers to forgiving others and cultivate a forgiving spirit that reflects God's grace.
Through relatable lessons and reflections, Gentry explores the dual call to accept God's mercy and extend it to those who have wronged us. Whether you're grappling with personal hurt or seeking to strengthen your faith, this workbook offers a roadmap to healing, restoration, and spiritual growth. Discover how forgiveness is not just a command but a gift-one that frees your soul, mends relationships, and reveals the heart of God.
Are you ready to step through the door to peace and joy?
Many people, both inside and outside the church, have inadvertently misused Scripture. Whether through misunderstanding or a lack of context, these misinterpretations can confuse the message and its application to our lives. In Twisted Scripture: The Importance of Context, Ric Keaster tackles this pervasive issue head-on, urging readers to carefully consider the context in which Biblical passages were written.
Keaster skillfully explores the meaning and implications of context, showing how errors in interpretation have shaped religious beliefs, practices, and structures. From widely held misconceptions to specific misunderstandings of Scripture, this book offers practical insights on how to approach the Bible with renewed honesty and discernment. Keaster calls believers to engage deeply with the Scriptures, equipping them with the tools to read with greater accuracy and integrity.
This book is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the Bible more clearly, apply its truths more faithfully, and avoid the errors that have plagued interpretations for centuries. Focusing on careful, contextual reading, Twisted Scripture inspires readers to reexamine their faith and approach God's Word with a renewed commitment to truth.
A continuation of a study of the Minor Prophets
Dive into the often overlooked but profoundly relevant prophetic books of the Old Testament with The Minor Prophets, Volume Two by Matthew Allen. This comprehensive study covers Micah, Zephaniah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, shedding light on their messages and the historical context that shaped them.
Matthew Allen's research and insightful writing make this volume a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Minor Prophets. Beyond presenting the texts themselves, Allen immerses readers in the political, economic, and social conditions of the prophets' time. This approach allows readers to not only grasp the content of each book but also appreciate the historical backdrop against which these prophetic voices emerged.
Each chapter attempts to portray the challenges, struggles, and societal dynamics that influenced the messages of these prophets. By gaining a clearer view of the world in which these prophets lived, readers can better understand the urgency and passion that fueled their divine missions.
The Minor Prophets, Volume Two rekindles the enduring relevance of these ancient messages in our contemporary world. It provides fresh insights and clarity, allowing readers to rediscover the urgency and passion of these prophets and apply their teachings to today's challenges.
To enhance your study experience, each of the 13 lessons is accompanied by thought-provoking questions suitable for Bible classes, small groups, or individual Bible study. This ensures that readers not only absorb the material but also actively engage with it, building deeper understanding and personal growth.
Rediscover the wisdom of the Minor Prophets and their timeless relevance with The Minor Prophets, Volume Two by Matthew Allen. Whether you are a dedicated Bible student or simply seeking to explore the rich heritage of these prophetic books, this volume is an invaluable resource for your journey.
Time, life, and opportunity all intersect in the special moment known as today. If experience teaches us anything, it's that life isn't forever and can at times be quite fragile. We can be here one day and gone the next. Learning to live within a day should be the goal of us all.
This Is The Day is a walk through the holy ground of Scripture with the purpose of exploring what it means to live within a day for Jesus. It is an excellent resource for personal or classroom use with questions at the end of the book.
This Is the Day by Bruce Green is a thoughtful and inspiring exploration of the power of living intentionally within the 24-hour increments we call a day. Drawing from biblical teachings and personal insights, Green shows how you can embrace the gift of each day, cultivate daily discipleship, and experience the fullness of life through Christ. With practical wisdom, rich scriptural reflection, and a heart for everyday faith, this book encourages you to seize the day for the glory of God.
Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of God's timing or looking to grow in your walk with Christ, This Is the Day will inspire you to appreciate the beauty of today and live with purpose. Perfect for personal devotion or small group study, this book includes reflective questions and thoughtful commentary to guide readers toward a more meaningful and joyous life in Christ.
This book sprang from the author's years of study and a heartfelt desire to communicate the Biblical Jesus to a dear relative who follows a 21st-century false messiah. It addresses the question, Who is Jesus? He has many roles. His roles as Savior and King regularly receive superficial acceptance. But these are not roles that can be fulfilled by a mere mortal. This book provides insights into Jesus's eternal nature and role as creator. These 144 reflections are designed to build faith by opening our eyes to the divine nature of Jesus, that nature qualifying him both as Savior and King.
To tie these reflections together, the book closes with a valuable topical index of scriptures designed for sharing the good news with seekers. After reading Unveiling Jesus, this devotional book becomes a reference work.
Those Who Walk by Faith: Trusting in the Individual Promises of God by Matthew Allen is an insightful workbook designed to guide individuals and groups in their spiritual journey through the study of faith as illustrated in the Bible. It is an ideal companion for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the essence of biblical faith.
In this study, Allen brings to life the stories of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, the Patriarchs, Moses, Joshua, Rahab, Gideon, Hannah, David, Elijah, and Esther, many of which are mentioned in Hebrews 11. Each chapter is devoted to one of these biblical figures, offering insight into their challenges, faith, and the promises of God they held on to.
What sets this workbook apart is its interactive format, making it perfect for individual reflection, small group discussions, and Bible class teachings. At the end of each lesson is a worksheet featuring a lesson outline with space to take notes, questions for thought and discussion, suggested group activities, and words of encouragement to end the lesson. The workbook's practical approach builds a deeper understanding and application of faith principles in everyday situations.
For those who prefer digital formats, Those Who Walked by Faith is also available electronically in both PDF and ePub versions, catering to individual and class use. These electronic versions provide the flexibility and accessibility for diverse learning environments and personal study preferences.
Whether used for personal growth, as part of a small group, or in a classroom setting, this workbook is a great resource for anyone eager to explore and embrace the principle of walking by faith, trusting in the individual promises of God. With its blend of biblical narrative, practical application, and interactive elements, Matthew Allen's Those Who Walk by Faith will be a great study tool in your journey of faith.
Eden, orphaned and sent to live with her uncle and cousins, feels blessed to be taken in by a family she really doesn't know. She longs to be accepted and loved. She settles in and enjoys the companionship of her cousin, Aleida. Their many adventures in the meadows on her uncle's estate, but his warning to never go beyond the woods echoes in Eden's mind as to why.
One day, while strolling through the meadow picking flowers, when her uncle and cousins were away, arms reached out from the woods and grabbed Eden. No one was around to hear her scream or come to her rescue.
What will become of Eden? Will she ever be reunited with her family?
Discover the intertwined journey of faith and ministry in the heart of rural Illinois in Ray Warfel Jr.'s deeply personal and insightful book, Soil and Soul. Drawing from the richness of his upbringing in a small, close-knit farming community, Ray Warfel reflects on his family's deep connection to the land and how this bond has shaped his ministry. From the humble wisdom of his preacher father to the struggles of rural churches striving to thrive in an ever-changing world, Warfel's stories offer a heartwarming and authentic perspective on faith, family, and service.
Through poignant anecdotes and practical reflections, Soil and Soul speaks to the power of small-town faithfulness, the challenges of ministry without formal training, and the enduring lessons learned from both the soil and Scripture. Whether you are involved in ministry or seeking spiritual encouragement, this book serves as a reminder that God works powerfully in every corner of the world, even in the quiet fields of Illinois.
Key Themes:
- Ministry in small, rural churches
- The legacy of faith passed through generations
- Personal stories of growth, humility, and service
- A reflection on community, love, and God's work in the simple moments of life
It was my favorite place in all the world-rural Illinois. My family had an old farmhouse in Jasper County just outside the little town of Hidalgo. Though we moved away when I was a boy, God has blessed me bringing me back as a man.
Maybe you have no idea where Hidalgo, Illinois is. That's okay. You probably known of other little towns like it. Maybe you've never heard of the church in Robinson, or Yale, Walnut Chapel, Hazel Dale, Casey, or Olney. But you might know of churches like these, few in number but massive in faith, and I hope you share my appreciation such disciples. Truly, I'm thankful to minister in rural Illinois. To raise my children here. To enjoy the slow pace of life that has given me many quite hours to meditate and pray. To connect deeply with God. And evaluate my place in His work.
I hope you will find encouragement on these pages. They contain a sampling of bulletin articles I wrote for a small group of disciples in rural Illinois. Country happenings and scriptures I meditated on while drinking coffee on the front porch.
Chad Sychtysz's Romans from the Personal Study Series is a guide that explores the theological themes of salvation, faith, justification, grace, forgiveness, and the Holy Spirit's work as presented in Paul's epistle to the Romans. This workbook has been designed to demystify complex concepts and is ideal for individual exploration and group study.
The Personal Study Series is derived from the deeper Quick Study Commentary Series. It offers a simplified approach without compromising on depth. The series addresses all New Testament epistles, including challenging and controversial subjects. Chad Sychtysz, leveraging his extensive experience in study, teaching, and preaching, provides a practical and approachable discussion. His work is seasoned with insights that break down the most daunting biblical texts accessible to newer and seasoned Bible students.
At the end of each section, the series offers questions for reflection and discussion, encouraging personal growth and understanding of the scriptures. Whether you're just starting to explore the New Testament or looking for a resource to enhance your study group's discussions, Romans in the Personal Study Series is an essential resource that promises to deepen your faith and knowledge of biblical truths.
Check out the companion for this workbook in the Quick Study Commentary Series.
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As a rote habit, prayer leaves us empty. As a leap of faith, it often challenges and disappoints us. Is there real power in prayer beyond the bumper sticker affirmation? What is prayer, and how can it transform our lives?
A comprehensive exploration of our communication with the Divine, A Life of Prayer is suitable for both individual and small group studies. The text is divided into thirteen chapters ideal for a quarterly study but can be adapted to the needs of any student or classroom.
Jesus is not tame, and Jehovah is not safe. Prayer is perilous when undertaken by the proud.
Marks of a True Christian offers the tools and encouragement needed to transform your spiritual life and help you shine as a light in a complex world. Ideal for individual and group study, this book is a must-read for anyone dedicated to deepening their understanding and practice of Christian principles.
Early Christianity not only disrupted Greco-Roman society, it also laid the foundation for the emergence
of our Western Civilization. The original Jesus movement was not a quest for power, but the promotion of a radical idea-that all people are of equal worth and equally loved by God. Ironically, the story of how that idea took root and transformed Western culture owes much to the work of a former enemy of the movement.
In a career spanning several decades working with a single congregation, David King wrote hundreds of articles for the church's weekly bulletin. This volume is a selection of those articles, based on the story of Christianity's early history.
David writes with keen insight and a style that is easy to read and understand. Isn't that what we ask of any author? Engage me. Help me understand valuable, life-altering concepts. Drive the point home in
such a way that compels a change of life. And do it without excessive verbiage and tedious writing. David does this masterfully in these short essays on both oft-studied Scriptures and those verses that lie in the
shadows awaiting someone to illuminate their heretofore unexamined truth. - Chuck Durham
In Wings Like Eagles, David King shows deft handling of the biblical text while discussing rich and complex topics. This book reads like a devotional commentary on Acts-Galatians, providing not only insight but directions for application for the serious Bible student. Deep but never wordy, this work is ideal for short daily readings to springboard the reader into further meditation. - Keith Stonehart
Explore the teachings of the New Testament with Quick Study Commentary Series: 2 Corinthians by Chad Sychtysz. This comprehensive commentary explores the themes, historical context, and theological insights of the Apostle Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. With 103 pages of rich content, this commentary provides an in-depth analysis that is perfect for students, scholars, and general readers interested in biblical studies.
2 Corinthians stands out in the New Testament as one of Paul's most personal and emotionally charged letters. Unlike its predecessor, 1 Corinthians, which addresses numerous church problems and doctrinal issues, 2 Corinthians offers a heartfelt look into Paul's experiences, challenges, and his deep affection for the Corinthian church. The commentary sheds light on Paul's intricate writing style, filled with expressive language, sudden breaks, and digressions, reflecting his genuine emotions and the tumultuous nature of his ministry.
The commentary is divided into several key sections. It begins with an introduction that sets the stage by exploring the historical and cultural background of Corinth, an ancient Greek city known for its commercial prosperity and moral challenges. The commentary then progresses through Paul's salutation, his physical and spiritual ministry, principles of giving, and a robust defense of his apostleship. Each section is meticulously analyzed, providing readers with a clear understanding of the text and its application to modern Christian life.
In addition to the detailed exegesis, this commentary includes practical insights and applications, making it an invaluable resource for both personal study and group discussions. The author's meticulous research and engaging writing style bring the ancient text to life, making it accessible and relevant to today's readers.
Quick Study Commentary Series: 2 Corinthians is not just a scholarly work but a guide to spiritual growth. It encourages readers to delve deeper into their faith and understand the enduring relevance of Paul's letters. Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a curious learner, this commentary offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
In A Study of Prayer and Praying, Chad Sychtysz explores the essence of prayer as the believer's lifeline to God. Understanding that while prayer is fundamental to the Christian faith, many followers of Christ seek a deeper comprehension of its nature, purposes, and practices. This workbook is designed to illuminate the path for those looking to enrich their spiritual dialogue with God.
Drawing from years of ministry, personal practice, and observation, Sychtysz offers biblically grounded and practical insights. This book is not intended to be an exhaustive theological treatise on prayer. Instead, it serves as a practical guide that sheds light on prayer, addressing common questions and challenges believers face. With a blend of information to ponder, questions to reflect upon, and additional articles for further reading, this study material perfectly suits individual contemplation and group discussion.
Chad Sychtysz, serving as a minister of the gospel since 1994 in various capacities across Alaska and Washington state, brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to his writing. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in History, Sychtysz has authored over twenty-five books and workbooks on biblical studies. Now residing near Seattle, WA, his work inspires and guides those seeking to deepen their relationship with God.
As first-century Christianity matured, it encountered several threats from within and without. How did it survive those early perils?
Second-and third-generation believers in Jesus faced challenges unknown to the first generation. But the Lord equipped them to confront these threats through the writings of the apostles and prophets. That canon of literature continues to serve the same purpose today.
Praise for this Volume:
David writes with nuance, clarity, freshness, and seriousness; and yet the power of God's word is always enhanced by his words-never overshadowed. For those who want to get better at expository preaching, this book gives valuable insights to many texts and demonstrates the process of mining a text. This is going to be a go-to resource for me when preaching or teaching any New Testament passage from now on. - Dan Lankford
What a wonderful way to work through the Bible. This latest installment from David King takes you from Ephesians to Revelation, noting select passages from each book. This is a refreshingly practical approach to scripture, leaving us with a clear call to action. This is a must-read devotional book-something to share with anyone who wants to better understand how to live out the Word of God. - Joshua Higgins
David King retired in 2021 following a long career working with the Pleasant Valley Church of Christ in Wichita, Kansas. He currently serves the congregation as an elder. He and his wife, Melissa, have four children and seventeen grandchildren.