Most churches in America struggle to have a significant percentage of their adult attendance in small groups. According to recent research done by Lifeway Research, only “33 percent of churchgoers attend classes or groups for adults (such as Sunday school, Bible study, small groups, or Adult Bible Fellowships) four or more times in a typical month. Fourteen percent attend two or three times a month.”Life transformation happens best within the context of community, so if a church is...

Even for the religious, life is full of questions: What is faith? Can my life be more satisfying? How can I deepen my walk with Christ? What does it mean to be happy? These bubble and boil underneath the surface of our everyday life. And though we ignore them, we know they point us to realms of wisdom or even mystery-to something more.Author Mark Buchanan asked these same questions. "I want more, God," he prayed-and the answer was more than he was looking for. It was right...

This contemporary classic by renowned scholar Gordon Fee explores the Spirit's significant role in Pauline life and thought.After Fee published his magisterial God's Empowering Presence, he was asked to write a more accessible volume that would articulate Paul's priorities for experiencing the life of the Spirit in the church. Fee's bestselling introduction to Paul and the Spirit, Paul, the Spirit, and the People of God, went on to sell over 70,00...

Biblical counseling is not an easy calling. How do you effectively communicate the gospel to hurting people? Theological training and learning from other counselors are both key to growing in the wisdom, love, and skill needed to apply Scripture to yourself and others. Preparation is key, but sometimes the most effective training comes after you’ve jumped into the ring—when a coach puts his arm around your shoulder and helps you take a look at what you’ve done well and where you can grow.

There are many different forms, arguments, denominations, and doctrines within the Christian faith. Diving into the various theories and histories can be a lengthy and often confusing journey. This collection of sermons concisely discusses many views on salvation and faith. Anyone who has felt overwhelmed by church history, has started questioning their own theology, or is simply looking to learn more about Christianity will find great help and comfort in The Plan of Salvation. Following ...

The Manatees are finally having fun this baseball season under new captain Luis. Embracing teamwork, they welcome troubled players Ty and Savannah, hoping to give them a second chance after they were kicked off a former team. Can the Manatees learn to accept the newcomers? Can they teach Ty and Savannah to be good teammates? And can they all work together to beat the best team in the league, the Dragons? Baseball Buddies stories explore the power of working together, accepting differences ...

Clara Schumann (1819–1896), a German pianist and composer, was a prominent figure in the Romantic era.Renowned for her exceptional piano skills, she also composed notable works. Clara, married to composer Robert Schumann, had a successful solo career and is recognized for her significant contributions to 19th-century music.

George Frideric Handel (1685–1759), a German-born Baroque composer, achieved international acclaim for his operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions.Notable works include Messiah and Water Music. Handel's profound impact on English Baroque music and his ability to evoke emotion through grand and dramatic compositions solidify his legacy as a musical giant. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect read...

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750) was a German Baroque composer and musician.Admired for his intricate and expressive compositions, he crafted masterpieces such as the Brandenburg Concertos and the Mass in B Minor. Bach's legacy endures as one of the greatest composers of all time, influencing generations with his exceptional contributions to classical music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers ...

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750) was a German Baroque composer and musician.Admired for his intricate and expressive compositions, he crafted masterpieces such as the Brandenburg Concertos and the Mass in B Minor. Bach’s legacy endures as one of the greatest composers of all time, influencing generations with his exceptional contributions to classical music.

Frederic Chopin (1810–1849), a Polish-French composer and pianist of the Romantic era, was renowned for his emotive and expressive piano compositions, such as the “Nocturnes” and the “Revolutionary Étude.”Chopin’s innovative approach to melody and musical form left an indelible mark, making him an influential figure in 19th-century classical music.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was an Austrian composer, prodigy, and prolific musical genius of the Classical era.Known for his timeless operas, symphonies, and chamber music, including The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni, Mozart's unparalleled talent and versatility left an enduring impact on Western classical music. Colorful illustrations plus photographs of meaningful sites and settings connect readers to important points in Mozart's history...