Updated 2022 EditionThis accessible resource on the Presbyterian ruling elder is especially designed for those considering becoming ruling elders and those who have been elected to this ordered ministry. It explains the meaning of the term “ruling elder� and the qualifications and duties of this ministry. The book goes on to explore the relationship of ruling elders to other elders, the role of the ruling elder on session and in the presbytery, and the relationships to...

When you understand it properly, the doctrine of vocation--"doing everything for God's glory"--is not a platitude or an outdated notion. This principle that we vaguely apply to our lives and our work is actually the key to Christian ethics, to influencing our culture for Christ, and to infusing our ordinary, everyday lives with the presence of God. For when we realize that the "mundane" activities that consume most of our time are "God's hiding places," our perspective changes.Cult...

Jonathan Leeman addresses the commonly asked (and often unanswered) question of, "Why should I join a church?" in a time when many are shunning the practice of organized religion. By offering a brief, straightforward explanation of what church membership is and why it's important, Leeman gives the local church its proper due and builds a case for committing to the local body. Church Membership is a useful tool for churches to distribute en masse to new and potential membe...

What does it mean to be "saved by grace"? Now revised and updated, this classic reminds readers of the Reformation's radical view of God and his saving grace, the liberating yet humbling truth that we contribute nothing to our salvation. It lays out the scriptural basis for this doctrine and its implications for a vibrant evangelical faith. Horton's accessible treatment will inspire readers with a fresh amazement at God's grace. The brand-new companion DVD makes this book even more useful ...

What does it mean to be justified? Humanity is in a desperate state; our sins separate us from the holy God. To be justified through Christ means we are covered in his righteousness and God no longer looks on us as guilty sinners. In this joyous action there is a depth of meaning and theology, and in this new booklet from the Gospel Coalition Philip Ryken directs us to the Bible’s rich teaching on the subject.He begins with our need for justification as found in the opening chapter...

The third millennium. It's a time of tremendous opportunity for the church--and tremendous challenge. More than ever, pastors need a model for ministry that can equip them for the rigors of a restless, increasingly secularized culture. In the 21st Century Pastor, David Fisher explores the apostle Paul's concept of ministry to offer a paradigm that is both biblical and relevant. Paul's view is fleshed out with examples from Fisher's own twenty-five years of pastoral experience, presenting a...

More and more church leaders, pastors, and members are looking for guidance on how to practice church discipline in a biblical way. Here is a contemporary and concise how-to guide that provides a theological framework for understanding and implementing disciplinary measures in the local church, along with several examples of real-life situations. Drawing on both Matthew 18 and 1 Corinthians 5, this brief hardback helps leaders face the endless variety of circumstances and sins for which no...

This updated edition, now in a more readable format, offers concise information on Disciples heritage, thought, worship, mission, and structure, making it a valuable resource for church members and members-to-be, and for those who simply want to know more about the church.

When the word church is mentioned, many people think of a building. Others think of a denomination. But the church is so much more.In this booklet, Dr. R.C. Sproul explains that the church is a group of people, not a building. These Christians make up the universal family of God and are called to live lives that glorify Him. Beginning with one of the church’s earliest statements of faith, Dr. Sproul takes an in-depth look at the “one, holy, catholic, and Apostolic” church....

The fifty-six essays in this book present cultural reflections on the gospel reading assigned for each Sunday in Cycle C of the Roman Lectionary. Each essay highlights aspects of the first-century, Eastern Mediterranean cultural world in which Jesus lived and suggests across-cultural comparison with contemporary Western culture. With this background information, readers can make more fitting applications of the Scripture to modern life situations.

Christians all over the world trust Walk Thru the Bible to help them deepen their spiritual lives through a greater understanding of God's Word. The Walk Thru the Bible small group Bible study series uncovers the richness of the Scriptures. Each guide explores a book of the Bible, a prominent Bible character, or an important biblical theme, offering rich insights and practical life application.These discussion guides are perfect for Bible study groups, Sunday schools, small groups,...

Transformation of the city was the battle cry in the 1990s. How far have we come since then? How do apostles fit into the urban landscape? How do they line up with God's plans? C. Peter Wagner has been writing on these subjects for a number of years, and now he brings city transformation and the role of apostles together in one volume. This book is a call for apostles to assume their rightful sphere of authority to see God's will accomplished here on earth. Wagner relates his decades of ex...