Becoming an Enthusiastic Church


Book Description

Enthusiasm in a church is a by-product of effective small groups, leadership, relationships, spirituality, worship services, evangelism, ministry, and structures. Need-meeting churches are enthusiastic and effective. In simple words with many illustrations and practical applications, Becoming an Enthusiastic Church gives church leaders, coaches, and consultants diagnostic tools and blueprints to build God's kingdom more effectively and efficiently.




Enthusiasm


Book Description

Originally published: New York: Oxford University Press, 1950.




The Convert's Guide to Roman Catholicism


Book Description

The Convert's Guide to Roman Catholicism - Your First Year in the Church is a book written to help new converts to the Catholic Church as they take their first steps into their new faith. In his down to earth, humorous, and practical style, Keith Nester tackles various topics and situations faced by new converts such as: How to Come out as a Catholic, How to Find a local Church, What it's like for former Protestants to worship as Catholics, and much more. This book is a must have for new converts, and for anyone seeking to deepen their appreciation for their Catholic faith. The Convert's Guide to Roman Catholicism- Your First year in the Church will help you not just survive your first year as a Catholic, but will help you thrive as you begin your new life in the most ancient Church.




The Church in the Nineteenth Century


Book Description

The nineteenth century was one of the most fascinating and volatile periods in Christian history. It was during this time that Christianity evolved into a truly global religion, which led to an ever greater variety of ways for Christians to express and profess their faith. Frances Knight addresses the crucial question of how Christianity contributed to individual identity in a context of widespread urbanisation and modernisation. She explores important topics such as the Evangelical revival led by the likes of the founder of the Christian Mission - later the Salvation Army - William Booth; the Oxford Movement under Newman, Keble and Pusey; Mormonism and Protestant revivalism in the USA; socialism and the impacts of Karl Marx and anarchism; continuing theological divisions between Protestants and Catholics; and the development of pilgrimage and devotion at places like Lourdes and Knock. Her book also examines the most significant intellectual trends, such as the rise of critical approaches to the Bible, and the different directions that these took in Britain and America. The author's unique emphasis on the 'ordinary' experience of Christians worldwide makes her volume indispensable for students and general readers who will be fascinated by this sensitive twenty-first century perspective on the nineteenth century.




Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church


Book Description

A careful and informed assessment of the “emerging church” by a respected author and scholar The “emerging church” movement has generated a lot of excitement and exerts an astonishingly broad influence. Is it the wave of the future or a passing fancy? Who are the leaders and what are they saying? The time has come for a mature assessment. D. A. Carson not only gives those who may be unfamiliar with it a perceptive introduction to the emerging church movement, but also includes a skillful assessment of its theological views. Carson addresses some troubling weaknesses of the movement frankly and thoughtfully, while at the same time recognizing that it has important things to say to the rest of Christianity. The author strives to provide a perspective that is both honest and fair. Anyone interested in the future of the church in a rapidly changing world will find this an informative and stimulating read. D. A. Carson (Ph.D., University of Cambridge) is research professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He is the author of over 45 books, including the Gold Medallion Award-winning book The Gagging of God, and is general editor of Telling the Truth and Worship by the Book. He has served as a pastor and is an active guest lecturer in church and academic settings around the world.










Not a Fan Updated and Expanded


Book Description

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.




Becoming a Contagious Church


Book Description

Discover a Proven Approach to Raising Your Church’s Evangelistic TemperatureEvangelism. It’s one of the highest values in the church. So why do so few churches put real effort into it? Maybe it’s because we don’t understand the evangelistic potential of the church well enough to get excited about it. Becoming a Contagious Church will change that.Revised and updated, this streamlined edition dispels outdated preconceptions and reveals evangelism as it really can be. What’s more, it walks you through a 6-Stage Process and includes a brand-new 6-Stage Process assessment tool for taking your church beyond mere talk to infections energy, action, and lasting commitment.“This book is not optional! It’s required reading for all who are serious about reaching their communities for Christ. Ignoring this book would be pastoral malpractice!”Lee Strobel, author of The Case for the Real Jesus“You can’t read this book without having your heart stirred to share the gospel. It’s contagious!”Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Church and The Purpose Driven Life“Entire leadership teams and outreach committees should read and discuss this powerful book—and then put its principles into action.”John Maxwell, author of Developing Leaders Around You“I can’t emphasize how important books like this one are for the future of the church. It demythologizes the fear and awkwardness of evangelism into something biblical, tangible, and practical for every person.”Dan Kimball, author of They Like Jesus but Not the Church“Becoming a Contagious Church is hands-down the most comprehensive work on church evangelism I’ve ever read. Its principles can turn inward-looking church attenders into outward-looking church evangelists.”Craig Groeschel, senior pastor, LifeChurch.tv




Ecce Homo


Book Description