a conference for pastors recommended readings

Transcription

1 2016 basics a conference for pastors recommended readings

2 Parkside Church wishes to acknowledge our publisher friends for partnering with us in providing resources for the Basics Conference. We are particularly thankful for their generosity in making excellent books available at discounted prices. We also wish to thank those who have provided give away materials for this year s conference. We are appreciative of those publishers who are mission-minded and committed to the Bible and the ministry of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They are truly a blessing to the Church. The publishers and representatives in attendance at this year s conference are: 10 of Those, Jonathan Carswell Banner of Truth, Pat Daly Christian Focus Publications, Paul Heath Crossway, Danny Lee Matthias Media, Marty Sweeney & Jason Crank P&R Publishing, Ian Thompson Reformation Heritage Books, David Woollin The Good Book Company, Brad Byrd Weaver Book Company, Jim Weaver *Book descriptions adapted from those of publishers

3 table of contents new & noteworthy exhibiting publishers non-exhibiting publishers alistair s top ten list conference speakers 30% OFF Your conference registration provides a 30% discount on most items at the bookstore FREE SHIPPING To anywhere in the United States on orders over $125 3

4 new & noteworthy exhibiting publishers banner of truth A Sad Departure, David J. Randall In A Sad Departure, David Randall explains why he and others could not stay in the Church of Scotland. It tells a dark story, almost novelesque in character: a church s Theological Commission reaches a unanimous conclusion on the teaching on marriage given in its ultimate authority, the Bible. But then its General Assembly acts in a way that ignores, demeans, and rejects that teaching. This is a thoughtful, honest and solemnising book written out of a deep personal and pastoral concern for the cause of the gospel. Every Promise of Your Word: The Gospel According to Joshua, Rhett Dodson Beyond just being an interesting relic of ancient Jewish history, what we find in the book of Joshua is a profoundly Christian message. God not only kept and fulfilled his land promises through Joshua; he also keeps and fulfils his promises of salvation and of a new heavens and new earth through our Lord Jesus. In Every Promise of Your Word, learn anew to rely on the God who keeps his every promise and see Jesus as he is revealed in the Scriptures of the Hebrew Bible. J.C. Ryle, Iain H. Murray The life of J.C. Ryle has only to be heard once to be remembered. His 84 years includes many contrasts, including going from being a successful youth who did not pray nor read his Bible to becoming a Christian bold as a lion for the truth of God s Word and his Gospel. Ryle believed in definite doctrine, in a message which does not adjust to the times, in revival, and in the living Christ. His life is convincing evidence that Christianity stands or falls depending on its relation to the word of God and to the Holy Spirit. 4

5 Jewels from John Newton: Daily Readings from the Works of John Newton, John Newton John Newton ( ) was a trophy of God s grace. His transformation from a blasphemous slave trader to a much loved minister of the gospel is a testimony to the power of the grace of God in Jesus Christ. In this devotional, Miller Ferrie has put together daily readings from the many writings of John Newton to edify modern believers. Knowing Christ, Mark Jones The Puritans loved the Bible and also loved the Lord Jesus. They circled round him, centred on him, studied minutely all that Scripture had to say about him, and exalted him in all aspects of their lives. Mark Jones, drawing from the Bible and the thoughts of the Puritans, unpacks the truth of the Lord Jesus to enrich our twenty-first century souls. Light from Old Times, J.C. Ryle One of the reasons so many congregations drift from their evangelical foundations is their sheer ignorance of Christian history, and their lack of understanding of the major doctrinal controversies and why they matter. If the church is to be strengthened, then Christians must be persuaded to read the saints of the past and to learn the lessons of church history. Ryle s abiding hope for Light From Old Times is that our souls will be stirred to prayer and action by the great testimonies of Reformers and Puritans found within its pages, and then that we will dig deeper into the writings of these spiritual giants. Logic on Fire: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (DVD Documentary), Media Gratiae Logic on Fire is a feature-length documentary with over 4.5 hours of special features, a 128-page book, and much more. It examines Lloyd-Jones s home life, his spiritual influences, the emphasis he brought to his two pastorates, and his continued relevance and influence in evangelicalism today. Logic on Fire emphasizes not only the need for clarity in preaching, tenderness in pastoring, and carefulness in worship, but also a humble dependence upon God to make the work of the ministry effective. Preparation for Ministry, Allan Harman Preparation For Ministry deals with important issues relating to the call to Christian ministry, theological training, and entry into pastoral work. The author has written this book out of his own experiences as a student, a pastor, and a seminary teacher. He offers practical advice on such topics as the call to ministry, choosing a seminary, early ministry, and staying fresh. 5

6 Scottish Theology: In Relation to Church History, John Macleod Scottish Theology traces the development of theological thought as it was worked out in the life of the church in Scotland after the Reformation. The issues documented the relationship between church and state; the authority of Scripture; the nature of the atonement; intra-church conflict; the persecution of Christians; the church s missionary responsibility all have a resounding contemporary significance. Sermons on Titus, John Calvin These seventeen sermons preached by Calvin between August and mid-october of 1555 consistently stress the centrality of God s revealed Word in the collective life of the church, and the necessity for each believer to conform in holiness and uprightness to God s standard of purity. A wholesome life is, through the Spirit s gracious work, both the consequence and the accompaniment of wholesome teaching. The Reformation in England, J.H. Merle d Aubigné D Aubigné s work provides a means for Christians to place themselves in history. It bears testimony to the power of the Spirit of God in the lives of individuals, churches, and nations. D Aubigné wrote as a serious historian, but also as a pastor who had a deep understanding of the way in which God sovereignly acts in providence to bring about his purposes. Gripping in its prose, yet far from sensationalist, this colourful record of the period is one which will be appreciated by spiritually-minded Christians everywhere. christian focus publications A Great Blessing To Me, Grant Gordon This book is about George Whitefield, regarded as the preaching wonder of his day, and John Newton, one of the leading spiritual guides of the Evangelical movement that Whitefield had a significant hand in creating. These two marvelous characters, intertwined as this study reveals, speak across the centuries to our day and have much to teach contemporary Christians. Delighting in the Sunlit Uplands of Grace, C.H. Spurgeon There are few greater jewels to be found in Christian literature than the words of Spurgeon on the subject of joy. Delighting in the Sunlit Uplands of Grace brings together Spurgeon s teachings on joy. Spurgeon speaks of the true, life-changing joy found in Christ, fellowship with His people, and the joy that is to come for all whose trust in Him. 6

7 Faith of Our Father: Expositions of Genesis 12 25, Dale Ralph Davis With typical wit and wisdom, Dale Ralph Davis opens up chapters of Genesis. These insightful expositions guide you through some of the early chapters of the Bible and will deepen your understanding of this important area of Scripture. This is a resource for individuals, pastors, and small groups. Far Above Rubies: The Life of Bethan Lloyd-Jones, Lynette G. Clark The galleries of the great heroes of faith contain many inspirational women, including Bethan Lloyd- Jones, the wife of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Bethan Lloyd Jones portrait has long been hidden in a part of the gallery known only to her family and certain close friends. Lynette G. Clark brings this portrait into view, capturing the wit, wisdom and faith of a godly wife, mother and friend. Held in Honor, Matthew D. Haste and Robert L. Plummer Are you facing different struggles in your marriage? You are not alone. In Held in Honor, you will find 50 devotional reflections on marriage carefully selected from 2,000 years of church history. Alongside each inspiring historical quote is a brief introduction to the person quoted and an accompanying biblical reflection. This book aims to strengthen you by pointing you to the promises of God s Word and by showing you how past generations have applied this life-giving message to their own marriages. Preaching with Spiritual Power, Ralph Cunnington The nature of the relationship between the Spirit of God and the Word of God has been debated among believers for centuries. Is the Spirit present wherever and whenever the Word is preached? Ralph Cunnington explores this question, focusing on what the Protestant Reformers, particularly John Calvin, actually taught on the topic. Psalms by the Day, Alec Motyer Following on from Isaiah by the Day, Alec Motyer leads us through the Psalms in this new devotional translation. Day by day you will read freshly translated passages from the Psalms and have an opportunity to explore the passage further through the author s notes and devotional comments. Speaking in Public Effectively, Richard Brewes If speaking in public is hard for you or fills you with fear, this book is for you. Richard Bewes, with deep knowledge and careful insight, divides up the subject into sections in a way that is memorable, and sprinkles anecdotes about his own experiences to illustrate many points. 7

8 The Grand Design: Male and Female He Made Them, Owen Strachan In a secularist culture, many people today are confused about what it means to be a man or a woman. Even the church struggles to understand the meaning of manhood and womanhood. In The Grand Design, Owen Strachan and Gavin Peacock clear away the confusion and open up the Scriptures. They show that the gospel frees us to behold the unity and distinctiveness of the sexes. The Person of Christ: Declaring a Glorious Mystery-God and Man, John Owen Amongst the best known of the Puritans, John Owen ( ) was a profound and thoughtprovoking pastor-theologian. In this work, regarded as one of the most important produced after the Reformation, Owen seeks to illustrate the mystery of divine grace in the person of Christ. The Silent Shades of Sorrow, C.H. Spurgeon If you are acquainted with sorrows and suffering, then you have a friend in Charles Spurgeon. He suffered through years of physical and mental pain. Yet he was not one to hide it. This collection of works from C. H. Spurgeon offers a taste of his ministry with respect to sorrow. He reminds us that among the many and silent shades of sorrow, the sorrowing have a Savior. Why Everything Matters: The Gospel in Ecclesiastes, Philip Ryken Ecclesiastes is for people who have doubts about God, but can t stop thinking about him. The author of Ecclesiastes had doubts, too, and these have enabled him to speak to skeptics as well as believers through the centuries. Philip G. Ryken explores this wonderful Old Testament book, and reminds us again of the need to trust God with the questions, even when we do not have all the answers. crossway A Camaraderie of Confidence, John Piper In this book, John Piper explores the lives of Charles Spurgeon, George Müller, and Hudson Taylor. These men serve as an examples of extraordinary faith in God and untiring service to others: Spurgeon in the church, Müller in orphan care, and Taylor in world missions. All three continue to motivate and inspire God s people today. A Peculiar Glory, John Piper God has provided a way for all people, not just scholars, to know that the Bible is the Word of God. John Piper has devoted his life to showing us that the glory of God is the object of the soul s 8

9 happiness. Now, his burden in this book is to demonstrate that this same glory is the ground of the mind s certainty. God s peculiar glory shines through his Word. The Spirit of God enlightens the eyes of our hearts. And in one self-authenticating sight, our minds are sure and our hearts are satisfied. Justified certainty and solid joy meet in the peculiar glory of God. Conscience: What It is, How to Train It, and Loving Those Who Differ, Andrew Naselli and J.D. Crowley What do you do when disagreements arise in the church? How do you determine which convictions are negotiable and which are not? How do you get along with people who have different personal standards? All of these questions have to do with the conscience. In this book, Naselli and Crowley explore all thirty passages in the New Testament that deal with the conscience, showing how your conscience impacts virtually every aspect of church life and ministry. Discipling, Mark Dever What does it look like to help others become more like Christ? In this concise guide, pastor Mark Dever outlines the who, what, where, when, why, and how of discipling helping others follow Jesus. Following the pattern found in Scripture, this book explains how these relationships should function in the context of the local church, helping us cultivate a culture of discipling as an ordinary part of our everyday lives. Family Worship, Donald Whitney Coming together for worship is an indispensable part of the family s spiritual life. In this book, Donald Whitney gives us a look at what family worship is by showing us that God-glorifying, Christ-exalting worship through Bible reading, prayer, and singing is a means for God to reveal himself to you and to your loved ones in a great and powerful way. God s Kingdom through God s Covenants: A Concise Biblical Theology, Peter Gentry and Stephen Wellum In this abridgement of Kingdom through Covenant, a biblical scholar and a theologian offer readers an accessible overview of an overarching structure of the Bible. Tracing the significance of the concept of covenant through both the Old and New Testaments, this book charts a middle way between covenant theology and dispensationalism exploring the covenantal framework undergirding the history of redemption. 9

10 Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry, Cameron Cole, Jon Nielson Dodgeball and abstinence training are not enough for youth ministry. Only the gospel can bring lasting change to students lives. In this guidebook, experienced youth ministry leaders lay out a vision for the gospel to be the center of every facet of ministry to young people. God s Word, Our Story: Learning from the Book of Nehemiah, D.A. Carson and Kathleen B. Nielson, Eds. The book of Nehemiah powerfully illustrates God s faithfulness as it chronicles Israel s return from exile. In this collection of biblical expositions, nine prominent Bible teachers guide their readers on a gospelcentered survey of this Old Testament book, connecting the story of Nehemiah to God s overarching story of redemption. J.I. Packer, Leland Ryken In this book, Leland Ryken acquaints his readers with a man who has had a remarkable influence on evangelicalism, J.I. Packer. Filled with personal anecdotes and little know facts, Ryken gives us a look at Packer s life, heart, and mind as he traces the outworking of God s plan through Packer s childhood, intellectual pursuits, and professional life. Lessons from a Hospital Bed, John Piper In the midst of sickness, it is difficult to remember much less rely on and rejoice in the goodness and sovereignty of God. In this book, John Piper reflects on ten lessons he learned while recovering in a hospital bed, encouraging his readers to fight for faith by focusing on the promises of God, the truth of the gospel, and the reality of eternity. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: His Life and Relevance for the 21st Century, Christopher Catherwood Martyn Lloyd-Jones impacted countless Christians in his own day with his passionate preaching and a resolute commitment to the Bible as God s Word. But the principles upon which he built his life and teaching remain as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. Written by his eldest grandson, this biography reveals the heart of Lloyd-Jones s ministry and explores how the physician-turned-preacher integrated belief with practice, in the hope that his legacy will inspire a new generation of believers to boldly cherish and declare the great things of God. 10

11 Owen on the Christian Life, Matthew Barrett and Michael A. G. Haykin John Owen is regarded as one of the most influential English Puritans. As a pastor, he longed to see the glory of Christ take root in people s lives. As a writer, he continues to encourage his readers toward discipline and communion with God. In Owen on the Christian Life, Barrett and Haykin guide us through the seventeenth-century theologian s life and doctrine, giving us a glimpse into the majestic vision that served as the foundation for his approach to the Christian life the glory of God in Christ. Reading the Word of God in the Presence of God, Vern Poythress Every time we read the Bible, we re reading in the presence of God. How should this incredible truth shape how we read? Moving quickly from principle to practice, Vern Poythress helps us rethink how we interpret the Bible by showing us the implications of entering into God s presence as we study. This handbook outlines distinct steps for practicing faithful biblical interpretation by focusing on our fellowship with the God who speaks to us through his Word. The Imperfect Pastor, Zack Eswine Many pastors dream of doing large things in famous ways as fast as they can for God s glory. But pastoral work requires surrender to small, mostly overlooked things over long periods of time. Zack Eswine reminds pastors that they were never meant to know everything, fix everything, and be everywhere at once. The Inerrant Word, John MacArthur, Ed. Because God has made himself known in his Word, a commitment to a high view of Scripture is of paramount importance. Sadly, more and more people not only from outside the church but also from within are denying the complete truthfulness of God s Word. Edited by pastor John MacArthur, this compilation of essays by a host of evangelical pastors, theologians, historians, and biblical scholars contends that the Bible is completely true and without error a foundational belief for those who claim to honor God and his Word. The Miracles of Jesus, Vern Poythress More than just displays of his divine power, Jesus s miracles signify something deeper they are windows into God s story of redemption, foreshadowing the great miracle of Christ s death and resurrection. Explaining the meaning of all 26 miracles in Matthew s Gospel, Vern Poythress shows their relevance for our lives and how they help us to grasp the salvation that God has brought into the world. 11

12 The Pastor s Book, R. Kent Hughes and Douglas Sean O Donnell Being a pastor is an incredibly demanding job. Pastors are tasked with caring for the spiritual, emotional, and even sometimes physical needs of their people. While seminary is helpful preparation for many of the challenges ministers face, there are many things that cannot be covered in the classroom. This book is designed to offer wisdom and practical guidance from two seasoned pastors on the reality of pastoral ministry in the trenches. The Whole Christ, Sinclair Ferguson Since the days of the early church, Christians have wrestled with the relationship between law and gospel. Sinclair Ferguson shows us that the antidote to the poisons of both legalism and antinomianism is one and the same: the life-giving gospel of Jesus Christ, in whom we are simultaneously justified by faith, freed for good works, and assured of salvation. Women in the Church, Andreas Kostenberger and Thomas R. Schreiner, Eds. The role of women in the church is a highly debated topic and Christians on all sides of the debate use 1 Timothy to justify their positions. Andreas Kostenberger and Thomas R. Schreiner offer a robust exegesis of 1 Timothy 2:9-15, taking into account the passage s historical background, syntax, grammar, and enduring significance. Word-Filled Women s Ministry, Gloria Furman and Kathleen B. Nielson, Eds. The Bible is clear that women as well as men are created in God s image and intended to serve him with their lives. But what does this look like for women in the church? Respected Bible teachers and authors such as Gloria Furman, Nancy Guthrie, and Susan Hunt address a variety of topics in a way that helps church leaders think through what Bible-centered women s ministry looks like. matthias media How to Walk into Church, Tony Payne If you ve been a churchgoer for more than just a few Sundays, walking into church probably doesn t seem like it deserves its own how to manual. But things are rarely as simple as they seem, and how you walk into church reveals a great deal about what you think church is, what it s for, and what you think you re doing there. In How to Walk into Church, Tony Payne helps us think biblically about church. Along with giving plenty of other practical advice, he suggests a way to walk into church that beautifully expresses what church is and why you re there a way that every Christian can master. 12

13 In Light of the Son, Andrew Moody At a university Bible study on John 15 in the 1980s, Andrew Moody dared to wonder out loud why the Son, since he is God, had to obey the Father. The answer to his question was both simple and profound: the Father s love for the Son is the reason for everything, from creation to the final chapter of Revelation. In Light of the Son distils decades of study and reflection on the interrelationships of the persons of the Trinity to help readers think more clearly and deeply about this central truth of the Christian faith. Moody explains how reading the Bible through the lens of the relationship between the Father and Son reveals new truths and sheds light on who we are, who God is, and how we are to love and glorify him. Wisdom in Leadership, Craig Hamilton In this book, Hamilton shares what he has learned through many years of being a student of the Bible and theology; a discerning reader of books on leadership; a keen observer of life and the way things work; and a loving leader of the people God has placed around him. This book is full of helpful insights for pastors and anyone else with leadership responsibilities in their church. p&r publishing Apologetics: A Justification of Christian Belief, John Frame In this book, John Frame sheds light of the message and method of Christian apologetics. He examines apologetics and clarifies the relationships of reason, proofs, and evidences to faith, biblical authority, and the lordship of Christ. Two subjects of particular note are Frame s fresh look at probability arguments and a stimulating investigation into the problem of evil. Some of the most valuable elements in this book are John Frame s extensive use of Scripture, presentation of specific lines of argumentation, and a dialogue on how these lines of argument work in conversation. Black and Reformed, Anthony Carter African Americans have a rich and compelling Christian heritage one that stretches back to foundational figures such as the church fathers Augustine and Tertullian. Yet white Christians often expect their black brothers and sisters to embrace a Eurocentric theology that marginalizes their own experiences and traditions. In this book, Anthony Carter draws both black and Reformed theology together, showing how Reformed theology s biblical stance addresses African-American experiences such as the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and oppression by so-called Christians. Carter also explores a few of the ways that an explicitly black theology can enhance our understanding of God and his Word, no matter our ethnicity. 13

14 Church Revitalization from the Inside Out, R.D. Stuart Is your church suffering, and you re not sure why? Unfortunately, flawed leadership is a big cause of ailing churches today and R. D. Stuart encourages church leaders to examine the different ways that they themselves may be exacerbating the problem. With forthright prose and practical examples from his own experiences, Stuart diagnoses different leadership failures and prescribes treatment for them. Along the way, he tackles making tough decisions; striving for unity; taming gossip; cultivating humility; and loving even the hard-to-love sheep. Evangelical Ethics: Issues Facing the Church Today, John Jefferson Davis In this book, John Jefferson Davis brings biblical thought to contemporary issues that Christians are facing. These issues include: homosexuality, genetics, abortion, euthanasia, war and peace, the environment, and divorce and remarriage. For a Continuing Church: The Roots of the Presbyterian Church in America, Sean Michael Lucas The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) is the largest conservative, evangelical Presbyterian denomination in North America. In this book, Sean Michael Lucas documents the formation of this denomination in response to the progressive leadership that emerged in the Presbyterian Church United States (PCUS). Their vision was to return to the church s spiritual heartland: evangelism and missions. Let the Earth Hear His Voice: Strategies for Overcoming Bottlenecks in Preaching God s Word, Greg Scharf Uniting theological encouragement with practical advice, Greg Scharf identifies eight common bottlenecks that can clog a sermon s fruitfulness and faithfulness humanly speaking and gives diagnoses, strategies for addressing the problems, and exercises to overcome them. The Flow of the Psalms, O. Palmer Robertson In this book, Robertson seeks to show his readers to see that the Psalms are not just a random collection of poetry, but contain a clear redemptive-historical progression. The Flow of the Psalms will help you to have a better grasp of and deeper appreciation for the Psalter. 14

15 The God We Worship, Jonathan L. Master, Ed. We were all created to worship, but our worship runs amok, and we pour out our praise and affection before false gods. Meanwhile, we all too often go through the motions of worship as we join others in the pew on Sundays. Who can restore us and make us the worshipers we are supposed to be? Only God himself. In this book, a host of noted pastor-scholars help redirect our attention to our glorious God showing us how he pursues, redeems, and profoundly changes his worshipers thus changing our response to him according to how he desires. Transforming Homosexuality: What the Bible Says about Sexual Orientation and Change, Denny Burk and Heath Lambert Faithful Christians today agree that the Bible forbids homosexual behavior. But when it comes to underlying desires, the jury is out. Is same-sex attraction sinful, even if it is not acted on? How we answer this urgent question determines how we counsel brothers and sisters who wrestle with samesex desires. Burk and Lambert challenge misconceptions on all sides as they unpack the concepts of same-sex orientation, temptation, and desire. They show that a biblical view gives hope for profound personal change, with patterns remolded and rethought in faithfulness to Christ. Spreading the Feast: Instruction and Meditations for Ministry at the Lord s Table, Howard Griffith In this practical book for those who serve the Lord s Supper, Griffith provides an understanding of the sacrament and twenty-eight pastoral meditations that span both the Old and New Testaments. Spreading the Feast will help students to understand different facets of the Lord s Supper and pastors to form their own words of explanation and exhortation as they minister at the Table, proving especially helpful to those who celebrate communion frequently. What About Free Will?: Reconciling Our Choices with God s Sovereignty, Scott Christensen Christensen explains two views that acknowledge God s sovereignty and its relation to human responsibility: compatibilism and libertarianism. Providing biblical answers, Christensen argues for compatibilism and shows how it makes sense of evil, suffering, prayer, evangelism, and sanctification. You will gain a deeper understanding of both arguments, as well as a greater appreciation for the significant role that choices play in God s work. 15

16 reformation heritage books Mercy Revealed: A Cross-Centered Look at Christ s Miracles, Gerald M. Bilkes The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are filled with well-known accounts of the miracles Christ performed. Christians love to reflect on Christ s healing of the Gadarene demoniac, His raising to life Jairus s daughter, and His bountifully providing food for five thousand hungry listeners. But author Gerald M. Bilkes doesn t want us to study these miracles just because they are loved or well known. He wants us to value them for what they teach us about Christ. Systematic Theology, John Brown Brown s systematic theology was first published in 1782 at the request of theological students. In seven books, it covers the traditional topics of revelation, God, man, Christ, personal salvation, and the church. It contains more than 26,000 proof texts and numerous exegetical insights along with a consistent covenantal emphasis, experiential depth, and compelling applications. Brown s style is methodological, including numerous divisions and sub-points to aid students, and his content is full of evangelical piety. The Beauty and Glory of Christ s Bride, Joel Beeke, Ed. This collection of a dozen addresses given on the church as Christ s bride unpacks three overarching themes: looking at the loveliness of Christ s bride, walking in the path with Christ s bride, and sharing in the sorrow and hope of Christ s bride. Together these chapters form an appreciative and practical book on the doctrine of the church, stirring up believers to have greater devotion to her. The Forgotten Fear: Where Have All the God-Fearers Gone?, Albert Martin The fear of God is an important theme in the Bible, yet many Christians today overlook it or treat it carelessly. Fearing God is the soul of godliness, and those who claim to love God should desire to understand what it means to fear Him. The Forgotten Fear revisits this important topic. Martin first establishes the theme of the fear of God in both the Old and New Testaments, and then defines what fearing God means. Finally, he addresses the practical implications of fearing God, showing its expression in the lives of Abraham and Joseph and providing instruction for believers today to maintain and increase their fear of God. The Lord Shepherding His Sheep, Joel Beeke Through the simple words of Psalm 23, David revealed a glorious and comforting knowledge of his covenantal Lord, pictured vividly as his gracious Shepherd and Host. Joel Beeke s exposition of the 16

17 psalm illuminates the riches of the experiential doctrines of salvation and sanctification. The book aims to help readers to grow in their understanding of God s love for His people, their submissive embrace of His purposes, and their glad contentment through life s distressing journey until they dwell in the house of the Lord forever. The Works of William Perkins:Volume 2, William Perkins The Works of William Perkins fills a major gap in Reformed and Puritan theology. Though Perkins is best known today for his writings on predestination, he also wrote prolifically on many subjects. This modern typeset edition of the Works includes four volumes of Perkins s expositions of Scripture, three volumes of his doctrinal and polemical treatises, and three volumes of his practical writings. Thoughts on Preaching and Pastoral Ministry: Lessons from the Life and Writings of James W. Alexander, James M. Garretson In Thoughts on Preaching and Pastoral Ministry, James M. Garretson provides a detailed narrative of James W. Alexander s life in order to better understand his approach to gospel labors. Throughout, Alexander is allowed to speak for himself so that the reader may enter into the spiritual pulse that animated his life and actions. Bracing, heartening, and at times frustrating, Alexander s growth as a Christian and development as a minister is the story of a man subdued by God s grace and a life marked by a growing conformity to the likeness of Christ. Alexander s life and instruction provide inspiration and wisdom for how to do pastoral ministry well and with all of one s heart. the good book company 1 Peter for You, Juan Sanchez The book of 1 Peter could have been written for our times a time of antagonism toward biblical ethics, and the marginalization of biblical Christians. Into that culture our culture Peter speaks of hope and offers joy as he points believers home to heaven. Juan Sanchez brings his experience of ministry in the US and Latin America, and his pastoral wisdom and insight, to this wonderful epistle an epistle that every Christian needs to treasure today. 5 Things to Pray for Your Church, Rachel Jones We long for God to be working in our church fellowship, and we know we re meant to be praying for our church. But often when it comes to it, we don t quite know what to ask for. Or we feel our requests 17

18 to God are shallow, repetitive and stuck in a rut. That s where this little book is designed to help. The Bible teaches us that our prayers can be powerful and effective (James 5:16) and this book will equip you to pray prayers that are in line with God s priorities as found in his Word. Ephesians for You, Richard Coekin In a world where Christianity seems increasingly sidelined and even irrelevant, we need to grasp the truths of this faith-affirming, life-changing letter. In Ephesians for You, Richard Coekin helps readers see how being in Christ changes everything our view of ourselves, our world, our future, and our church, homes and workplaces. James for You, Sam Allberry What is the difference between genuine faith and counterfeit faith? How do we know for sure that our faith is real? How can we know joy even in trials, and patience even in suffering? James is a book full of practical, life-changing help for real life. James For You unpacks this letter and applies its challenges to the experiences of everyday Christians. Living in the Light: Money, Sex, and Power, John Piper Whether we re rich or poor, married or single, in a position of great influence or not all of us face temptation in the areas of money, sex and power. They are the dangerous opportunities of our time opportunities to destroy our own souls, or to experience the true joy of using them for God s glory. John Piper shows us that when we have the blazing glory of Christ at the center of our spiritual solar system, the planets of money, sex and power find their true and beautiful orbits. Money Counts: How to Handle Money in Your Heart and with Your Hands, Graham Beynon Some of us want to escape money. Some of us want to embrace money. We fear money, and we desire it. We think about it every day, and yet often we try not to think about it. In this book, Benyon takes us to the gospel to show us how to handle money well in our hearts, so that we can handle it confidently and wisely with our hands. Why Bother with Church, Sam Allberry The church is widely viewed in the world at large as being outdated, boring, irrelevant and filled with backbiting hypocrites. How different that picture is to how the Bible talks about the new family that 18

19 Jesus has gathered. It is a precious bride, a sparkling jewel, a lifeboat for forgiven sinners that is precious and holy; nurturing and warm; filled with truth, friendship and all embracing, forgiving love. Sam Allberry understands the collision between these two views and in this brief but thorough guide to church, he outlines what church is and why we need it. And how, when we have got it wrong, we can move closer to what a true church should be. Zeal with Burnout, Christopher Ash Lots of people who are involved in Christian ministry (whether paid or unpaid) find themselves having to step back from it. They have not lost their love for Christ, or their desire to serve him, but for one reason or another, they are exhausted and simply cannot carry on. Ash speaks to this situation by revealing a neglected biblical truth and seven keys that flow from it. This practical and biblical guidance will help enthusiastic Christians gain the mindset and lifestyle to protect themselves from burnout and serve Jesus for the long term in a sustainable way. weaver book company Bible Fluency Complete Learning Kit, Kenneth Berding Bible Fluency is a fun, creative way to learn the Scriptures. Since the Bible is a big book, and since it is not like a typical volume, readers will need help knowing where things are found and how it all fits together. The kit consists of teaching videos, a workbook, songs, and flashcards and can be used for individual study, group studies, and school curriculums. Born This Way? Homosexuality, Science and, the Scriptures, J. Alan Branch What are Christians to make of the claim that homosexuality is an innate characteristic? In this book, J. Alan Branch carefully walks the reader through research to show that homosexuality is not an innate quality, and how some findings are twisted to arrive at these pre-conceived notions. Engendered: God s Gift of Gender Difference in Relationship, Sam A. Andreades In this book, Sam Andreades provides a robust theology of gender that brings clarity and shows compassion to a gender-confused society. He shows that gender difference is a gift from God that should be celebrated and provides convincing arguments as to why gender difference is so important to God and why we need to embrace His assessment. 19

20 Pastoral Ministry in the Real World: Loving, Teaching, and Leading God s People, Jim L.Wilson Though Scripture is timeless and unchanging, the world in which pastors must minister is never the same. Pastoral Ministry in the Real World applies the enduring truths of the Bible to the pastor s work in messy situations where the old categories no longer apply and typical responses are not always effective. Wilson presents the nature of pastoral ministry by exploring its three major functions: loving, teaching, and leading God s people. Persuasive Preaching: A Biblical and Practical Guide to the Effective Use of Persuasion, R. Larry Overstreet This book seeks to show the reader what persuasion really is, what the Bible says about it, how it is modeled in the New Testament, and what role it should and should not play in preaching today. Preaching Points: 55 Tips for Improving Your Pulpit Ministry, Scott M. Gibson, Ed. The eleventh commandment for preachers is Be clear! This book offers 55 workable guidelines on how this exhortation can be heeded to help with communication and preaching skills. This volume is a collection of some of the best of the hundreds of Preaching Points that the Haddon W. Robinson Center for Preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary has produced. The book offers diverse topics based upon on how they relate to preaching the preacher s spiritual life, the way to preach, the way to live life as preachers, and more. Victory Through the Lamb: A Guide to Revelation in Plain Language, Mark Wilson This book introduces Christians to the book of Revelation through a study of one of its key themes: victory. It proposes that Christians, represented by the audience in the Seven Churches, have been in tribulation since the first century and that Revelation was written to help Christians be victorious over the challenges of life. When Shepherds Weep: Finding Tears of Joy for Wounded Pastors, Glenn C. Daman In light of the continual exodus of pastors from ministry, this book strives to provide pastors with a biblical perspective that will encourage them to remain in ministry by understanding how suffering is part of their calling. Though there are trials in ministry, God can use suffering to develop the pastor and the church. 20

21 non-exhibiting publishers A Theology of Biblical Counseling, Heath Lambert, Zondervan Academic Since the beginning of the biblical counseling movement in 1970, biblical counselors have argued that counseling is a ministry of the Word, just like preaching or missions. As a ministry, counseling must be defined according to sound biblical theology rather than secular principles of psychology. A Theology of Biblical Counseling unpacks the core theological convictions that underlie sound counseling, and practical wisdom for counseling today. In each chapter, doctrine comes to life in real ministry to real people, dramatically demonstrating how theology intersects with the lives of actual counselees. Core Christianity: Finding Yourself in God s Story, Michael Horton, Zondervan Academic For many people, words like doctrine and theology cause their eyes to glaze over, or they find them difficult to understand and struggle to see how they are relevant to daily life. But theology is far from boring; it is the study of God and should lead to awe and wonder as we better understand who God is and what he has done for us. In Core Christianity, Horton tackles the essential and basic beliefs that all Christians share. What is core to the Christian faith? In addition to unpacking these beliefs in a way that is easy to understand, Horton shows why they matter to our lives today. How to Preach and Teach the Old Testament for All It s Worth, Christopher J. H. Wright, Zondervan Academic Many preachers ignore preaching from the Old Testament because they feel it is outdated in light of the New Testament and difficult to expound. On the other hand, some preachers will preach from the Old Testament frequently but fail to handle it correctly, turning it into moralistic rules or symbolic lessons for our spiritual life. In this book, Wright proclaims that preachers must not ignore the Old Testament because it is the Word of God and lays the foundation for our faith. Covering the History, Law, Prophets, Psalms, and Wisdom Literature, interspersed with practical checklists, exercises, and sermons, he provides an essential guide on how to handle the Old Testament responsibly. 21

22 MacArthur New Testament Commentary Index, John MacArthur, Moody Publishers If you want to know where John MacArthur discusses a certain Greek word, Bible verse, or biblicaltheological subject across his whole set of commentaries you can find out in just the turn of a page, and then begin your in-depth study from there. The MacArthur New Testament Commentary is for anyone who wants to dig deeper into God s Word. My Grief Observed, William Johnson, William Johnson In this book, a pastor shares the heart breaking lessons learned when his wife of 35 years was taken from him in death an experience that not only changed him forever, but also how he now ministers to others who are grieving. My Grief Observed provides valuable insight to pastors, but also to any in the throes of loss and grief. On Pastoring: A Short Guide to Living, Leading, and Ministering as a Pastor, H.B. Charles, Jr., Moody Publishers No pastor is ever fully prepared for the ministry. For pastors just starting out, those needing a little rebalancing, or those growing tired in the trenches, a handbook on the basics is a welcome relief. In On Pastoring, Charles gives 30 quick chapters on the practical aspects of pastoral ministry. Covering the devotional life, spiritual leadership, and public ministry of the pastor, he provides advice on topics like preparing well for preaching, equipping and leading leaders, and prioritizing your family. Practical Shepherding Series Complete Set, Paul Tautges, Jason Adkins, Ryan Fullerton, Bryce Butler, Phil A. Newton, Brian Croft, Zondervan The Practical Shepherding Complete Set provides pastors and ministry leaders everything they need to know about practically and effectively leading their flock. It contains Prepare Them to Shepherd, Visit the Sick, Conduct Gospel-Centered Funerals, Comfort the Grieving, Gather God s People, Pray for the Flock, and Oversee God s People. Each volume will provide easy-to-follow steps to help you better serve your flock in the different aspects of ministry. 22

23 Reviving the Black Church, Thabiti Anyabwile, Broadman Is the Black Church dying? The picture is mixed and there are many challenges. The church needs spiritual revival. But reviving and strengthening the Black Church will require great wisdom and courage. Reviving the Black Church calls us back to another time, borrowing the wisdom of earlier faithful Christians. But more importantly, it calls us back to the Bible itself. For there we find the divine wisdom needed to see all quarters of the Black Church live again, thriving in the Spirit of God. The Enduring Authority of the Christian Scriptures, D.A. Carson, Ed., Eerdmans Publishing Recognizing that Scripture and its authority are now being both challenged and defended with renewed vigor, editor D. A. Carson assigned the topics that thirty-seven evangelical scholars address in the book. After an introduction by Carson to the many facets of the current discussion, the contributors present robust essays on relevant historical, biblical, theological, philosophical, epistemological, and comparative-religions topics. To conclude, Carson answers a number of frequently asked questions about the nature of Scripture, cross-referencing these FAQs to the preceding chapters. The New Pastor s Handbook: Help and Encouragement for the First Years of Ministry, Jason Helopoulos, Baker Publishing Group Most new pastors realize in their first years of ministry that they are not prepared for many of the practical aspects of their calling. The New Pastor s Handbook is a guide to navigating these unfamiliar waters. With his hard-won wisdom, pastor Jason Helopoulos comes alongside as a trusted friend and mentor to help young pastors through their first years of ministry. This books covers how to start out strong at a new church, lead meetings and delegate tasks, safeguard your family, and much more. The Pastor as Public Theologian, Kevin J. Vanhoozer and Owen Strachan, Baker Publishing Many pastors today see themselves primarily as counselors, leaders, and motivators. Yet this often comes at the expense of the fundamental reality of the pastorate as a theological office. The church needs pastors who can contextualize the Word of God to help their congregations think theologically about all aspects of their lives, such as work, end-of-life decisions, political involvement, and entertainment. Drawing on the depiction of pastors in the Bible, key figures from church history, and Christian theology, this brief and accessible book offers a clarion call for pastors to serve as public theologians in their congregations and communities. 23

24 Visual Theology: Seeing and Understanding the Truth About God, Tim Challies and Josh Byers, Zondervan Academic We live in a visual culture. Today, people increasingly rely upon visuals to help them understand new and difficult concepts. But the visual portrayal of truth is not a novel idea. Indeed, God himself used visuals to teach truth to his people. As teachers and lovers of sound theology, Challies and Byers have a deep desire to convey the concepts and principles of systematic theology in a fresh, beautiful and informative way. In this book, they have made the deepest truths of the Bible accessible in a way that can be seen and understood by a visual generation. We Cannot Be Silent: Speaking Truth to a Culture Redefining Sex, Marriage, and the Very Meaning of Right and Wrong, R. Albert Mohler Jr., Thomas Nelson Twenty years ago, not one nation on earth had legal same-sex marriage. Now, access to same-sex marriage is increasingly seen as a basic human right. In a matter of less than a generation, western cultures have experienced a moral revolution. Mohler examines how this transformation occurred, revealing the underlying cultural shifts behind this revolution: the acceptance of divorce culture, liberation of sex from reproduction, the prevalence of heterosexual cohabitation, the normalization of homosexuality, and the rise of the transgender movement. He then offers a deep look at how the Bible and Christian moral tradition provide a comprehensive understanding upon which Christians can build their personal lives, their marriages, church ministry, and cultural engagement. 24

25 there never yet have been, nor are there now, too many good books. Martin Luther

26 alistair s top ten list A Body of Divinity, Thomas Watson, Banner of Truth Based on the Westminster Assembly s Shorter Catechism, this book deals with the foremost truths of the Christian faith. Watson conveys his knowledge of the truth in an original, concise, pithy and illustrative style. Confessing the Faith, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Banner of Truth The Westminster Confession of Faith finds itself in the first rank of great Christian creeds. In this book, Dixhoorn seeks to deepen our understanding of each paragraph of the Confession. Challenging hearts and minds, Confessing the Faith hopes to edify and instruct both advanced and general audiences. Heroes, Iain Murray, Banner of Truth The Bible no more knows a separate class of heroes than it does of saints. Yet grace so shines in some, that it lightens the path of many. As A.W. Tozer could write, Next to the Holy Scriptures, the greatest aid to the life of faith may be Christian biographies. In this book, Murray sheds light not only on some well known figures in church history but also on some of those who are not so well known, encouraging readers to see what Christ did yesterday and be energized to trust and serve him today. Honest Evangelism, Rico Tice, Good Book Company Hostility and hunger that s the response to the message of Jesus. The first is painful, the second is wonderful, and Rico Tice is honest about both. Short, clear, realistic and humorous, this book will challenge you to be honest in your conversations about Jesus, help you to know how to talk about him, and thrill you that God can and will use ordinary people to change eternal destinies. How the Church Can Change Your Life, Josh Moody, Christian Focus Google books on church, there will be no shortage of choice. Some will be helpful, others less so. So why another book on church? Josh Moody is asking a very different question: why should I go to church at all? Filled with practical advice, this book will help you address questions you should know the answers to and others you never knew to ask. 26

27 Isaiah by the Day, Alec Motyer, Christian Focus These daily devotionals are birthed from a lifetime of study on the prophecy of Isaiah. Day by day, readers are provided with passages from Isaiah and an opportunity to explore them further. Morning and Evening, Charles Spurgeon, Crossway For over one hundred years, Christians have treasured Charles Spurgeon s Morning and Evening devotional. With a reading for the beginning and end of each day throughout the year, this book helps the reader appreciate Spurgeon s emphasis on the importance of abiding in Christ and meditating on God s Word. His wisdom and counsel provide a timeless guide through the trials and triumphs of the year. The Gagging of God, D.A. Carson, Zondervan Is Jesus the only way to God? This clear, scholarly response to that question affirms the deep need for the Gospel s exclusive message in today s increasingly pluralistic global community. The Gagging of God offers an in-depth look at the big picture, showing how the many ramifications of pluralism are all parts of a whole, and then provides a systematic Christian response. The Whole Christ, Sinclair Ferguson, Crossway Since the days of the early church, Christians have wrestled with the relationship between law and gospel. Sinclair Ferguson shows us that the antidote to the poisons of both legalism and antinomianism is one and the same: the life-giving gospel of Jesus Christ, in whom we are simultaneously justified by faith, freed for good works, and assured of salvation. Remaking a Broken World, Christopher Ash, 10 of Those The thing about Christianity for many today is not whether it is true or false, but that it is simply irrelevant. In a sweep through the whole Bible story, this book shows that the ordinary local Christian church, if it is faithful to the Bible, is the most significant happening in the world. Here are the beginnings of the remaking of a broken world. This in spite of appearances really is where it happens. Anyone interested in the Christian faith will be stimulated and provoked by this fresh Bible overview. 27

28 conference speakers The following is a selective list of some of the books that our main session speakers have written, contributed to, or edited. d.a. carson» An Introduction to The New Testament ZONDERVAN» Basics For Believers: An Exposition of Philippians BAKER ACADEMIC» Becoming Conversant With The Emergent Church ZONDERVAN» Christ and Culture Revisited EERDMANS PUBLISHING» Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility WIPF & STOCK PUBLISHERS» Exegetical Fallacies BAKER ACADEMIC» For The Love of God Volume 1 CROSSWAY» For The Love of God Volume 2 CROSSWAY» From Sabbath To Lord s Day WIPF & STOCK PUBLISHERS 28

29 » From The Resurrection To His Return CHRISTIAN FOCUS PUBLICATIONS» God s Love Compels Us CROSSWAY» Gospel-Centered Ministry CROSSWAY» Here is Our God CROSSWAY» His Mission: Jesus in the Gospel of Luke CROSSWAY» How Long O Lord? BAKER ACADEMIC» Introducing the New Testament ZONDERVAN» Jesus the Son of God CROSSWAY» Jesus the Son of God Audio CHRISTIAN AUDIO» Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor CROSSWAY» Praying with Paul: A Call To Spiritual Reformation BAKER ACADEMIC» Showing the Spirit BAKER ACADEMIC» The Difficult Doctrine Of The Love Of God CROSSWAY» The Gagging Of God ZONDERVAN» The God Who Is There BAKER BOOKS» The God Who Is There Audio CHRISTIAN AUDIO» The Gospel According To John EERDMANS PUBLISHING» The Gospel As Center CROSSWAY» The Intolerance Of Tolerance EERDMANS PUBLISHING» The Scriptures Testify About Me CROSSWAY 29

30 josh moody» Burning Hearts: Preaching to the Affections CHRISTIAN FOCUS PUBLICATIONS» How Church Can Change Your Life CHRISTIAN FOCUS PUBLICATIONS» Jonathan Edwards and Justification CROSSWAY» Journey to Joy CROSSWAY» No Other Gospel CROSSWAY» The God-Centered Life: Insights from Jonathan Edwards for Today REGENT PUBLISHING 30

31 alistair begg» Crazy Lazy 10PUBLISHING» The Hand of God MOODY PUBLISHERS» Holy, Holy, Holy: Proclaiming the Perfections of God LIGONIER MINISTRIES» Lasting Love: How to Avoid Marital Failure MOODY PUBLISHERS» Made for His Pleasure: Ten Benchmarks of a Vital Faith MOODY PUBLISHERS» Morning & Evening CROSSWAY BOOKS» Name Above All Names CROSSWAY BOOKS» On Being a Pastor: Understanding Our Calling and Work MOODY PUBLISHERS» Pathway to Freedom: How God s Law Guides our Lives MOODY PUBLISHERS» Preaching for God s Glory CROSSWAY BOOKS» The Hand of God MOODY PUBLISHERS 31

32 basics 2016 evaluation Please tell us what you think of the conference. Your opinions are valuable to us and will help us to better serve you in the future. If you would like to receive $20 off of Basics 2017 please go online at basicsconference.org/evaluation and fill out the conference evaluation. You will receive a discount code upon completion of the survey.