Bøger udgivet af Abingdon Press

Explores what Christians believe, why they believe, and why it matters through the Apostles Creed.

Retrace the life of Moses from his modest birth and rescue as a baby to the courts of Pharaoh, from herding flocks in Midian to leading his people out of Egypt.Join Adam Hamilton as he travels from Egypt to Mt. Sinai, the Nile, the Red Sea and the wilderness exploring the sites of Moses' life. Using historical information, archaeological data, and biblical text, Hamilton guides us in the footsteps of this reluctant prophet who grew in his relationship with God and by the end of life had successfully fulfilled the role he was given.Turn your own reluctance into boldness as you examine the significant challenges facing Moses and how God shaped his character and life in powerful ways.Additional components for a six-week study include the book, a comprehensive Leader Guide and a DVD featuring author and pastor Adam Hamilton and a youth study.The Children's Leader Guide contains session plans for younger and older children, including games, activities, craft ideas, and reproducible handouts.

Discovering and embracing one's identity has proven to be a long,lonely, rough, and at times, dangerous road for today's teenagers. It'slikely you've chosen this study to use with your youth group because youcare deeply and want the teenagers within your sphere of influence tofind the answers to their identity questions in Jesus Christ. TheI Am study is not a quick fix for your teenagers' needs. It is ahandcrafted tool that, when used by compassionate, caring, and committedadults, will ignite their imagination and excitement for whom theirCreator says they are and the purpose for which they were designed. I Am will likely raise more questions than it answers, and that'sintentional. Don't feel the need to make sure all the loose ends aretied up at the conclusion of your youth gathering. Allow your teens theopportunity to leave with ideas and truths on which to reflect andwrestle as they use the daily devotionals provided in the Groove: I Am Student Journal. The Groove Bible study series invites teens to learn theessentials of their faith, own their story, and engage the world inserving Jesus. Each topical study consists of four weekly sessions thatare easy to lead and relate to life issues teens face. With up to 48weeks available, Groove is great for Sunday and mid-week gatherings forboth large and small groups as well as retreats. The leader guide contains everything needed to lead teens through a Groove study, including teaching outlines, leader notes, Bible background, reflections, and parent communication.

Today's faith and biblical illiteracy in general and among those who attend church and claim to be Christian is staggering. Some alarmists are claiming that the Christian faith is in danger of becoming extinct. We can no longer rely on culture to support the passing on of faith in Jesus Christ to the coming generations. The Basics study is not a quick fix to this situation. It is a handcrafted tool that when used by compassionate, caring, and committed adults, will ignite their imagination for God, the Scripture, the faith community, and living a transformed life. The Basics will likely raise more questions than it answers, and that's intentional. Don't feel the need to make sure all the loose ends are tied up at the conclusion of your youth gathering. Allow your teens the opportunity to leave with ideas and truths on which to reflect and wrestle as they use the daily devotionals provided in the Groove: The Basics Student Journal. The Groove Bible study series invites teens to learn the essentials of their faith, own their story, and engage the world in serving Jesus. Each topical study consists of four weekly sessions that are easy to lead and relate to life issues teens face. With up to 48 weeks available, Groove is great for Sunday and mid-week gatherings for both large and small groups as well as retreats. The leader guide contains everything needed to lead teens through a Groove study, including teaching outlines, leader notes, Bible background, reflections, and parent communication.

Relationships are messy. We're all different and imperfect, and we can struggle to get along--especially with those who disagree with us. Often we find ourselves divided--even as Christians. How can we work out our differences and disagreements with humility and grace, always showing the love of Christ, while still remaining true to what we believe?The Apostle Paul wrote to the Christians living in Corinth about this very thing. The cultural backdrop of Corinth was even more overtly sinful than our culture today, yet Paul boldly encouraged the Corinthian Christians not to ridicule one another or outsiders but to work together to show the love of Christ. In this six-week study we will explore Paul's first letter to the Corinthians to learn how we as Christians are to deal with differences and divisions--whether in the workplace, neighborhood, school, home, social media community, or church. We'll discover that the answer is living and sharing the radical love of Jesus Christ, and we'll unpack what this means and how we can live it out day by day.The Leader Guide, to be used along with the study's workbook and DVD, contains six session plan outlines, complete with discussion points and questions, activities, prayers, and moreplus leader helps for facilitating a group.Other components for the Bible study, available separately, include a Participant Workbook, DVD with six 25-30 minute sessions, and boxed Leader Kit (an all-inclusive box containing one copy of each of the Bible study's components).

At one time or another, everyone has a wilderness experience, a time when life is barren and difficult and we feel alone and desperate, not knowing where to turn. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a financial or health crisis, divorce, or some other painful experience, we see no end in sight and wonder how we can make it through another day.In the Scriptures we see that often God's people went through a wilderness experience, and these experiences changed them in profound ways. The truth is that it's impossible to go through the wilderness without being changed. There's a way through the wilderness that can leave us broken and bitter and far away from God. But there's another way throughGod's waythat leaves us with a deeper faith and draws us closer to God than we ever imagined.With sensitivity and warmth, Rob Renfroe explores the wilderness experiencewhat it is, how we get there, why God allows it, and how we can get through it God's way so that we learn the lessons that can be learned only in the desolate seasons of life when we are totally dependent on God.A DVD featuring six interviews with the author and a full leader guide are also available for group study.

Our busy lives are filled with decisions, but are they the important decisions? In this simple, inspiring book, pastor and author Tom Berlin helps us discern six key decisions in our walk with Christ. Includes Scripture, helpful quotations, and space for journaling. 1. The Decision to Follow2. The Decision for a New Life3. The Decision to Mature4. The Decision to Respond5. The Decision to Persevere6. The Decision to Surrender

There's a lot of talk today about ';culture wars,' but these external conflicts are only a symptom of a deeper problem: there is trouble with the truth. Beneath our differences about the values that should define our culture is a real disagreement about what is true. Those who hold to the traditional beliefs of the Christian faith find themselves at odds with a culture that no longer believes there are universal spiritual or moral truths that apply to everyone. And they grieve that the confusion about what is true is just as strong in the church. The Trouble with the Truth explores the truthwhy it's in trouble, what the culture tells us about it, and why the church is so confused about it. In an engaging and compelling style, Rob Renfroe reminds us that the Christian life requires commitment to both truth and grace. Like a tightrope walker with a balance bar, we must learn to balance compassion for people and passion for truth, combining them in equal measure just as Jesus did. Readers will examine the essentials about truth and grace, understand the differences between a cultural worldview and a scriptural worldview, and discover how to be instruments of real influence and transformation in our time by following Jesus's example. The Leader Guide contains six session plan outlines, complete with discussion points and questions, activities, prayers, and moreplus leader helps for facilitating a group.

Imagine Jesus from Mary's point-of-viewproud of her son, in awe of his gifts and mission, guided by love for him as a person and so much more. Adam Hamilton begins at the end, with Mary at the crucifixion and resurrection; travels back in time as she witnesses his life and ministry; and ends at the beginning, with the Christ child born in a stable, Mary's beautiful baby. This year, experience Advent and Christmas with Mary.This leader guide is designed for group use, along with Adam Hamilton's book and DVDNot a Silent Night: Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem. The leader guide includes everything a group leader needs to facilitate sessions and tailor them to the time and style of each group. The five sessions are based on the book and DVD topics: 1. Beginning with the End 2. The Piercing of Mary's Soul 3. Amazed, Astounded, and Astonished 4. Mary, Full of Grace 5. It Was Not a Silent Night

Rose Anna Zook has watched her two older sisters marry two Stoltzfus menand has always thought she and John, the third Stoltzfus brother, wouldmarry, make a home together, and have children. But John has otherideas. He's enjoying his Rumschpringe in the Englisch world a little too much and isn't interested in returning to the Amish communityespecially to marry.RoseAnna is determined to bring her man back into the Amish fold. John isequally determined to live his life free and unencumbered. Who will winthis battle of wills? Will love prevail?

The best-loved book with a fresh new look.

An adult Lenten study built around Wesleyan principles.

This volume offers a timely look at the important topic of integrity. What does integrity mean? What does it involve? How do we "do" integrity? Drawing on his experience as a Christian, a minister, and a pastoral counselor, Ronald J. Greer explores the two sides of integrity: personal integrity and moral integrity. Personal integrity involves an integrated life, where we are in harmony with ourselves, while moral integrity reflects the evolution of the word, as the idea of morality and ethics merged with the concept of wholeness Perfect for the graduate or as a gift for anyone at a key turning point in their lives, this small book provides the insight and guidelines that will become the touchstones for a good, well-lived life.

Stories from the women and men who have served alongside Methodist and United Methodist bishops. When a bishop is elected in The United Methodist Church, it is not only the one elected who is asked to serve but his or her spouse and family as well. Hear the stories of how Methodist and United Methodist episcopal spouses have adjusted to and navigated this life-changing journey. While dealing with the full range of human experiencebirths, deaths, relationship struggles, and illnessthey also travel the world, participate in mission and ceremonies, meet interesting people, and stand up for justice. Through hardships, celebrations, and everyday struggles, these spouses find their own paths of ministry, answering the calls that are also placed upon their lives. In these ways and many others, they also serve.Praise for They Also ServedBishops may ebb and flow in their popularity based on their decisions, but their spouses are almost universally loved and admired. Jane Ives helps readers understand why that is the case with her comprehensive story of the impressive, diverse, and thoroughly dedicated women and men who have contributed so much to God's work.Lovett H. Weems, Jr., Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership Emeritus, Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DCIn the gospel of Luke, Jesus sent the disciples out, two by two, to every town, and country, every charge and conference. Ives' book records the wisdom of sending two, and restores the names of those often forgotten in the story of the people called "e;Methodists,"e; the spouses. These are remarkable oral histories as well as timelines of social holiness and global service. This is not a book about survival in ministry and marriage; it's a testimony to those who thrived in their calling. Heather Murray Elkins, Professor of Worship, Preaching, and the Arts, The Theological School of Drew University, Madison, New JerseyThis is a book about discipleship. It is also a book about ministry and itinerancy.It tells stories of how God sometimes calls two people to the work of episcopacy, people who happen to be married to each other. It is a book that will make you laugh and cry!This book is an important addition to the literature of Methodist episcopacy. And it is a hard book to put down!William Boyd Grove, Bishop (Ret.) of The United Methodist ChurchJane Ives has given the Methodist family a priceless treasure. Through an astonishing effort to collect memories and explore archival material, she has compiled a comprehensive record of episcopal spouses, their stories, accomplishments, and contributions to the church. But this book is more than a biographical dictionary. It offers a poignant, insightful account of the lives of bishops, their spouses and families, and the impact of the church's expectations on all of them. As a little boy, I knew firsthand the phone call: get on a train to New Orleans with your sister; your Daddy is going to be a bishop. Allow me to testify, then, that this book is the real deal -- genuine, human, and rich with faith and Spirit.Thomas E. Frank, Associate Dean for Continuing Studies, Graduate School of Arts and Science, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

How did Jesus teach the Greatest Commandment to his disciples?In his latest book Reckless Love, author and Pastor Tom Berlin writes that Jesus taught them to love neighbor first as a way to more deeply love God. In his exploration of Jesus' teaching and travels with his disciples, Berlin suggests that Jesus teaches us how to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength by showing us how to love our neighbor. While many hope to learn to be better family, friends, leaders, neighbors but finding a deeper relationship with God, what if becoming a better neighbor leads you to that deeper love of God. In Reckless Love, you will see the ways Jesus' care for others disrupted the way his disciples thought and acted so deeply that they learned love God fully and join Jesus mission to share the good news unambiguously. In so doing, you will have the opportunity to consider your life, and learn how loving the people around you will completely renew your faith and give you a new experience of loving God. The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the six-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.

Jewish dedication and commitment to studying Scripture is nothing short of inspiring. Jews have long been known as careful examiners of the Bible, dedicated to understanding and growing from God's word. In traditional synagogues, the Torah is read three times per week, and each week, one of the Torah portions is examined. These encounters not only allow Jews to study God's instruction for faith but also provide valuable inspiration for living that faith in the everyday. In Shalom for the Heart, popular author and speaker Rabbi Evan Moffic reveals the wisdom of the Torah for today's Christians. Beautifully written weekly Torah-inspired devotions are offered to encourage readers throughout the year. Through his readings, Moffic invites Christians to engage in a study pattern of the Jewish founders of the faith, to grow deeper in relationship with Jesus, and find meaning, comfort, and direction for our lives. Endorsement:';Most Christiansmyself certainly includedhave somuch to learn from the Jewish tradition and the study of the Torah, andfrom Judaism's respect for the law and value on ritual and connectionwithin their community. This book is a gift for every Christian,anchoring us to a beautiful shared history that can deepen and enrichour understanding and our faith.' ~ Shauna Niequist, best-selling authorand speaker

What our Wesleyan legacy means for today's living.

Annotated and critical edition of the letters of one of early Methodism's most influential founders.

A six-week stewardship program that presents giving as a lifelong journey in Christian discipleship

Expresses in simple language what the people of this denomination believe and how they interpret the ageless affirmation of the Bible. Includes study guide, 8 sessions.

This Pastoral Record Book enables pastors to maintain accurate, complete, and understandable historical records for reference (i.e., record of sermons delivered), and to provide essential archival information through generations of church pastorates. This book provides ample space for recording pastorates, baptisms, members received, marriages, funerals, sermons delivered, meetings held, special funds raised, lectures and special addresses, churches and parsonages built, and so forth, for 40 years.The book uses acid-free paper and is an ideal gift/resource from the time of the theological diploma, and for use throughout pastoral careers.

Will Willimon is widely acclaimed as one of the top ten preachers in the world. In Preaching the Psalms, he provides just what you need to begin the journey toward sermons based on the Psalms. This guide will stoke, fund, and fuel your imagination while leaving plenty of room to insert your own illustrations, make connections within your congregational context, and speak the Word in your distinctive voice. Guidance from Will Willimon is like sitting down with a trusted clergy friend and asking, "What will you preach next Sunday?" Preaching the Psalms is part of a seven-volume set that also includes lectionary-based preaching resources for Years A, B, and C (2 volumes per year: Part 1 and Part 2) of the Revised Common Lectionary.Sermon resources include:1.Readings2.Theme title3.Introduction to the Readings4.Encountering the Text5.Proclaiming the Text6.Relating the Text

Not only are humans born to be generous, we are born in the image of a loving and generous God. And sometimes we need a reminder.These 28 devotionals gathered into four weekly themes, inspire the reader to discover the powerful Christian principles of gratitude, prayer, and faith--leading them back to the generous life they were born to live. The daily readings are written by the diverse group of pastors, business and church leaders, speakers, and authors who make up the Horizons Stewardship Team.Each reading includes scripture, a message containing personal stories and anecdotes, and a challenge to inspire the reader toward the discovery of the powerful Christian principles of gratitude, prayer, and faith--all which will lead them back to the generous life they were born to live.

We've all been there. Rock bottom. The end of our rope. The last straw. During hard times, it often seems like the only option is to throw in the towel. In Hope for Hard Times, author Magrey deVega examines the lives of the great biblical prophets Elijah and Elisha and reveals a consistent message in their stories: Don't give up, and don't lose hope. Trust that God will help you find a way. When you look closely at the accounts of Elijah and Elisha from 1 Kings 17 to 2 Kings 8, you will find amazing stories of God's provision. God provides for Elijah, as he faces down opposition in a mountaintop showdown and when he feels alone and ready to give up while hiding in a cave listening for God's still, small voice. God provides for Elisha, when he brings healing to Naaman and when he is surrounded by enemies and praying for spiritual eyes to be opened to hope. There is hope for you in hard times. Your story of hurt, heartache, and hopelessness has been heard, and God has a message for you. Read these stories, pray through them, and listen as you receive encouragement and guidance for whatever you are facing today. Open your eyes, and open your hands. For just like ravens at the Brook Cherith, God is with you, giving you everything you need. The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the four-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.

"While physical training has some value, training in holy living is useful for everything. It has promise for this life now and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8Christians crave a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Spiritual disciplines are activities and practices that guide you in your daily walk through life bringing you closer to Christ. They also help you to make a difference in our world. Practicing these spiritual disciplines opens you to God's transforming love and help you experience Holy Living.Confession may be good for the soul, as the saying goes, but most people give little thought to its practice, at least on a daily basis. Like prayer, a person's needs tend to trigger a confessional response. As a result, we often have a limited understanding of the true nature of the practice. Confession is so much more than a call to apologize, though that is an integral part. Confession is fundamentally relational, providing the opportunity to experience a much fuller relationship with God. This book provides opportunities both to examine and to practice the many forms that confession takes. It begins by looking at our confession of faith (not sins) and what we affirm about the nature and purposes of God. From there it moves to exploration and practices of individual confession, mutual confession, and worship, which provides one of the most significant contexts for the people of God to confess their sin before God and one another.This is one of series of eight books. Each book in this series introduces a spiritual practice, suggests way of living the practice daily, and provides opportunities to grow personally and in a faith community with others who engage with the practice. Each book consists of an introduction and four chapters and includes questions for personal reflection and group discussion.Other disciplines studied: Celebration, Discernment, Neighboring, Simplicity, Study, and Worship.