SPCK Publishing

AWARD: CRT Christian Life Book of the Year 2024!

You probably don't need to be told that the demands of modern living are taking their toll on our wellbeing. You likely feel it.

And yet, some of us feel as though we're the only ones who are weary, overwhelmed or anxious so we don't talk about it and try and pretend that it's not happening.

The truth is that we're far from alone; we all have days where life feels too much, and we've all had times when we're desperate to know that brighter days are ahead.

Packed-full of practical tips alongside stories of struggle and strength, Brighter Days is for all of us who want tools to invest in our emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health so we can look forward to a healthier and more hopeful future.

'I have long regarded the NRSV as the gold standard of English Bible translation. . . This edition's care over word choices and language makes it very appropriate for reading aloud and for personal Bible reading or use in Bible study groups.'
Steve Walton, Professor of New Testament, Trinity College, Bristol

Acclaimed by both biblical scholars and general readers as the most reliable English Bible available, the New Revised Standard Version follows in the great tradition of the King James Version in being true to the original meaning of the text while conveying it in a dignified style that speaks powerfully to today's readers.

Now with British spelling, grammar and punctuation, and with over 20,000 updates and enhancements to the text, this is the first comprehensive revision of the NRSV since it was published in 1989.

Features:
British text
Clear readable 9 pt typeface
Double-column layout
Hardback binding
Illustrated silver endpapers featuring 'Presented to:'
Silver ribbon marker
Durable black cover material with silver foiled design
Silver head and tail bands
Removable white bellyband
Printed on paper from sustainable sources

'The new British version of the NRSVue. . . reflects the latest scholarship while being sensitive to cultural changes on issues such as gender, race and disability. It also echoes a more distinctly English tradition which will be welcome to many who are the cultural descendants of those who still treasure the King James Version.'
Angela Tilby, Canon Emeritus of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford

'Thirty years of advances in textual analysis make it more accurate than any other translation, and now its sensitive rendering into elegant and inclusive British English ensures a smoother and more rewarding reading experience for millions of English speakers, both in the UK and around the world. All of which means the NRSVue now stands at the pinnacle of English Bible translations.'
Emma Ineson, Bishop of Kensington, London

'The finest English Bible we have today.'
Richard J. Foster, theologian and writer

Do you say 'yes' to requests when really you mean to say 'no'- Do you feel permanently trapped by your 24/7 lifestyle?

While offering practical help to busy Christians, Tim Chester also opts for root-and-branch treatment: you need to deal radically with the things that are driving you.

If you're busy because of the following:

'I need to prove myself'
'Otherwise things get out of control'
'I like the pressure/money'

think again!

At the root of our 'slavery' are serious misunderstandings, often reinforced by our culture. If we want to be free, then we need to counteract them with God's word. It's important to manage our time, but it's more important to manage our hearts.

God has promised his rest to all who are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28). It's up to us to accept it.

He brought the journal within tantalising reach and, with each breath, I inhaled its age like incense, its secrets bitter-sweet and lethal.’

In the fourth book of The Secret Of The Journal series, historian Emma D’Eresby has done everything she can to put the past behind her. Now she has every reason to look forward to a future with Dr. Matthew Lynes and his family in the beautiful state of Maine. But, in making peace with her past, she has to face uncomfortable truths in the present. As a shadow from her undergraduate days in Cambridge threatens her happiness, history catches up with terrifying results.

'Captivating and compelling.' Liz Fenwick, author of The Cornish House

'An ancient secret and an eternal love are intelligently woven through this addictive series.'  Fiona Veitch Smith, author of The Jazz Files.

The story of the World War 2 de-coders of Bletchley Park continues to fascinate.

How did Mair Thomas, a musician brought up in the Welsh valleys, find herself in the rarefied atmosphere of Hut Six, surrounded by hundreds of others, all desperately trying to break the German Enigma Code?

Sworn to secrecy and working in cramped and uncomfortable conditions, Mair discovered her degree in German and Music was just what was needed. Drawn from the public schools and Oxbridge her background was very different to that of most of her colleagues and she didn't immediately fit in. This captivating memoir unpacks her daily life and explores the relationships she built.

My Secret Life in Hut Six provides a fascinating insight into one woman's battle against Nazi Germany vividly capturing an era of danger, strain and day to day difficulties that were brightened occasionally by visits from the top brass, such as Winston Churchill.

It has been foretold:

In the hour of Britain's greatest need, King Arthur will return to rescue his people.

In Portugal, the reprobate King Edward the Ninth has died by his own hand.

In England, the British monarchy teeters on the edge of total destruction.

And in the Scottish Highlands, a mystical emissary named Mr. Embries-better known as "Merlin"-informs a young captain that he is next in line to the throne. For James Arthur Stuart is not the commoner he has always believed himself to be-he is Arthur, the legendary King of Summer, reborn. But the road to England's salvation is dangerous, with powerful enemies waiting in ambush. For Arthur is not the only one who has returned from the mists of legend. And Merlin's magic is not the only sorcery that has survived the centuries.

Mark Oakley reveals George Herbert as a fine companion with whom to examine the journey of the soul.

His poems are 'heart-work and heaven-work', embracing love and closeness, anger and despair, reconciliation and hope.

There is too an appealing and audacious playfulness about Herbert: he seems to take God on, knowing God will win, confident God will not abandon him.

This sense of relationship with God as primarily friendship is one of many intriguing and healing aspects we are invited to consider.

George Herbert is one of the great 17th century poet-priests. His poems embrace every shade of the spiritual life, from love and closeness, to anger and despair, to reconciliation and hope. And his work is always rich with audacious playfulness: he seems to take God on, knowing God will win, as if he's having an argument with a faithful friend he knows is not going to leave. In much of theology and spirituality, God is a critical spectator to human lives, but for Herbert, his sense of relationship with God is primarily of a friendship that can never be broken. These are some of the themes Mark Oakley explores in this outstanding book

'My Sour-Sweet Days contains forty well-chosen poems by George Herbert (widely considered the greatest devotional poet in the English language), each of which is followed by a short but profound reflection by Mark Oakley. The combination is excellent: richly expressive poems and accessible personal meditations. This book powerfully demonstrates how poetry can bring comfort, refreshment and renewed energy to our spiritual lives.'

Professor Helen Wilcox, editor of the critically acclaimed edition of The English Poems of George Herbert (Cambridge University Press, 2007)

'It's extremely unusual to meet anyone who isn't a specialist who has such a subtle feeling for language as Mark Oakley does.'

Sir Andrew Motion, former Poet Laureate

'In another world it is otherwise, but here below to live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often.'
From An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine (1903)

Canonized by Pope Francis in October 2019, Saint John Henry Newman (1801-90) was one of the most controversial and influential thinkers of his day. He is now recognized as one of the finest prose stylists of modern times, as well as a popular poet and hymn-writer. His spiritual autobiography, Apologia Pro Vita Sua, is a modern classic, and his many theological writings continue to be widely read and highly regarded by Christians of all traditions.

As Eamon Duffy brilliantly demonstrates in this fresh assessment of Newman's life and achievement, other theologians of his time are now largely of historical interest whereas Newman is still very much our contemporary.

'This splendid book... expertly illuminates every aspect of Newman's life [and] work.'
Wall Street Journal

Most of us are on the lookout for something fresh and different as we approach Advent and Christmas.

How can we fully appreciate the familiar truths, treasuring yet again the good news and joy of the season? What will really make our hearts sing? Look no further.

In this sure-footed, yet conversational and down-to-earth, little volume, William Philip looks at the 'songs' of key characters in the Christmas story:

• Elizabeth (joy for the hearers)
• Mary (joy for the humble)
• Zechariah (joy for the helpless)
• The Shepherds (joy for the heavens)
• Simeon and Anna (joy for the hopeful)

This is a book to engage heart and head, as it moves between key passages from Luke’s Gospel, from the song of the heavily pregnant to the song of a humble peasant, from the song of the helpless priest to the song of the heavenly proclaimers, and finally to the song of the hopeful 'pensioners'.

The author concludes, 'Countless people throughout the centuries have… joined the chorus of praise and proclamation, singing the song of the Saviour with Simeon and Anna, Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary and all the host of heaven. My hope is that your voice is already part of that wonderful refrain. But if not, then my prayer is that this Christmas is the time to do what these others have done and embrace the Saviour for yourself.'

'Takes the reader, with accuracy and deep devotion, from these wonderful songs of Scripture, to know, with new adoration, the Christ who was born' - Peter Dickson

'Inspiring and informative... Written not just for those who have found their Christian faith, but also for those who are still seeking and exploring. A great read for Advent.' - Clare Hendry

'A wonderful exploration of the Bible's own "Christmas carols". Saints, sceptics, seekers and Scrooges will find fuel here to warm the heart.' - Jonty Rhodes

'The cardiologist (or physician) who became a pastor has written a book to make our hearts sing... It has something striking in it for preachers, congregations and visitors alike.' - Rico Tice

Chock-full of pithy sayings, the book of Proverbs presents ancient Israelite advice for leading a flourishing life. What is more, it apparently preserves four divisions of an ancient curriculum for cultivating youthful character, teaching reverence toward God and faithful love of our neighbours.

In this comprehensive commentary, Paul Overland examines Proverbs not as a loose collection of isolated sayings, but as an organised whole that forms a series of cohesive poems. Along with a fresh, annotated translation of each saying, he offers detailed commentary on the form and structure of the text, showing the dynamic development of persuasive thinking marshalled by its author.

Exploring the practical implications for living wisely today as well offering cogent analysis, this is a Bible commentary on Proverbs that will benefit all preachers and serious students of the Bible.

Part of the Apollos Old Testament commentary series, Proverbs follows a clear, helpful structure that provides a thorough exploration of the text – beginning with translation and notes, examining form and structure, offering insightful commentary and ending with a full exposition of the theological message within the framework of biblical theology. It will leave you with a deeper knowledge of the divine and human aspects of Scripture, as well as a broader understanding of its meaning and continued relevance for modern Christians.

The Apollos Old Testament Commentaries are ideal bible commentaries for those preaching from the Old Testament and looking to explore its riches in depth within their sermons, and will also help lay people and scholars studying the Bible at a higher level.

Clear and discerning, Paul Overland's commentary on Proverbs is a brilliant study that will give you a profound appreciation for both the poetry of these sayings and the lessons that they can still Christians today.

Luke is excited. As the only non-Jewish writer in the New Testament, he can hardly believe that God became a human, not just for Jewish boys like Peter and Paul, but for Gentiles just like him. His excitement about the Gospel is contagious, as he tells us, wide-eyed: All of this happened for you too.

Want to explore Luke, but feel like you don't have the time? Straight to the Heart of Luke is a concise and bite-size approach to Bible study, giving you nuggets of information that you can think about throughout the day.

Bible study for busy people.

Luke was so unlike the other New Testament writers that many of his contemporaries believed he wasn't qualified to write Scripture at all. But to understand the message of his gospel, we need to grasp who he was.

Luke was the only New Testament writer who was not a Jew. The apostle Paul defends him by stating explicitly that his gospel was as much Holy Scripture as the Old Testament.

Luke was an outsider to the Jewish faith that God inspired to compile an account of the life of Jesus in order to show people all around the world that what Jesus said and did him said and did for us all.

The astonishing message of Luke's gospel is that what happened to Jesus happened for you. Phil Moore helps us to understand and see God's wisdom in choosing Luke as a writer. He shows that Luke assures us that this isn't someone else's story: he came for you. We can say yes to Jesus, discovering that he can use you.

And that all this is possible because he made a way for you.

God speaks. By his Spirit. Through the Bible. About his Son.

This is one of the most crucial things for any Christian to get to grips with. If we understand how God speaks, then we can truly know him. Everything else slots into place. We see Jesus clearly. We fall in love with him more deeply. We make sense of our world. But get this wrong and we lose it all.

This book covers the whole sweep of the subject from start to finish. It puts all the parts of the jigsaw in their proper place. Yet, mixing our metaphors, it’s also an appetizer, whetting your palate for more...

Gives the reader the benefit of many years' experience of putting MAP into practice.

'This is a must-read for anyone using MAP.'
JOHN DUNNETT, DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY AND OPERATIONS AT THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND EVANGELICAL COUNCIL

How to Do Mission Action Planning (SPCK, 2009) was the first book to appear on the MAP process, at a time when it was beginning to have a significant impact. In this fully revised and expanded edition, the authors offer further critical evaluation and theological reflection, by drawing on the experiences of people who have been using the MAP process in different contexts from their own:

Fr Damian Feeney, parish priest and Catholic Missioner of Lichfield diocese
Canon David Banbury, leader of Parish Mission Support, Blackburn diocese
The Rt Revd Dr Alan Smith, Bishop of St Albans
Dr Stephen Hance, Canon Missioner of Southwark diocese
Linda Rayner, the United Reformed Church co-ordinator for Fresh Expressions

‘Erudite, bold and wide-ranging – a book that makes you think about knowledge, wisdom and what the future has in store.’ PETER FRANKOPAN

'A book of remarkable sweep and scope - not just learned, but deeply humane.' TOM HOLLAND

The long human odyssey of self-discovery has reached a crucial stage: everything we do affects everyone and everything else - and we know it. The next hundred years will bring more change than we can easily imagine: more opportunities for more people to achieve the fulfilment of a good life, and more risks that could result in catastrophic harm to the entire planet.

Viewed geopolitically, the main question is whether the world-views of the world’s most important and influential powers – China and America (the one fundamentally Confucian, the other essentially individualist) – can be made to work together constructively.

At the same time, on a deeper level, the even greater question is how the irreversible fact of urbanisation may nurture healthy and mature human individuality, such that the accumulated wisdom of the world’s great cultures becomes mutually transforming and enriching.

This bold and wide-ranging book explores those questions, with all the risks and opportunities they hold for generations still to come.

Interactive and experiential journal introducing prayer practices to teenagers. Space for teenagers to record their own thoughts on the practice and to read what other people have said Ideal confirmation gift Fresh, contemporary design.

This book is based on a blog run by Revd Miranda Threlfall-Holmes and her teenage son, Noah, www.TeenagePrayerExperiment.blogspot.co.uk. Miranda and Noah developed the blog and book as they could find nothing on the market to introduce teenagers to different ways of praying.

Each chapter of the book introduces a prayer practice, e.g using labyrinths, Lego Bible modelling, prayer beads, prayer walking.

It also includes comments by teenagers who have tried it out and plenty of space for the young person to record their own thoughts.

Each experiment is divided into 4 parts:

1. An introduction to the prayer idea being suggested and the context of the tradition
2. The experiment - how to do it and what you need
3. Space for notes on how it went/ what you thought
4. Notes from other teens who have tried out the experiment and their thoughts about it

Packed full of experiments in prayer this is a resource to get stuck into and try for yourself.

"Insightful, honest and very down-to-earth. I so wish there had been a book like this when I was a single dad." Steve Legg, editor, Sorted magazine

This is a book that comes alongside the reader as a travel guide and walks through the journey via a step-by-step approach. 

Walking the Single Parent Journey offers the reader a chance for self-discovery, of coming to terms with the pains and effects of the past in order to boldly face the challenges that lie ahead. The book discusses the everyday struggles and issues that single parents face, whilst offering advice and tips on managing and dealing with them successfully. The author encourages the reader to create systems and put strategies in place to help make life easier, drawing on her own experiences.

What does it mean to be pilgrims in a confusing world? What vision of the good life drives us?

In this thoughtful exposition, Raymond Brown explores how the book of Numbers offers a picture of a better life. He shows how its message is eminently suited to our contemporary world, a world without firm spiritual and moral foundations. In contrast to contemporary thinking, Numbers pictures life as an accompanied journey, and not a meaningless maze.

Part of the loved and trusted The Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Numbers offers an insightful, readable exposition of the Biblical text and thought-provoking discussion of how its meaning relates to contemporary life. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, The Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for anyone studying or preaching Numbers and who want to delve deeper into the text.

This beautifully redesigned edition has also been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NIV Bible text.

Readable and reliable, The Message of Numbers will help for anyone looking for a commentary on the book of Numbers that make clear its meaning both in its original context and for twenty-first century readers.

The good news about injustice is that God is against it.

God is in the business of using the unlikely to accomplish justice and mercy. In this tenth-anniversary edition of Gary Haugen's challenging and encouraging book, he offers stories of courageous Christians who have stood up for justice in the face of human trafficking, forced prostitution, racial and religious persecution, and torture.

This expanded edition brings up to date his work in calling for the body of Christ to act. Throughout, he provides concrete guidance on how ordinary Christians can rise up to seek justice throughout the world.

When you hear the word 'worship', what first springs to mind?

For many of us we think of singing songs and hymns with fellow believers in a church service or small group. But worship is more than that. Worship is a way of living.

In Worshipping, readers are invited to journey through a series of six studies in David's Psalms, learning from his worship in all of life, from worshipping together to worshipping under pressure, worshipping in failure and in contentment.

With contributions from Mark Greene, Antony Billington, Tracy Cotterell, Joe Warton and Pippa James, this practical workbook will help you see whole-life worship in a new way.

If we neglect this book, says Chris Wright, we miss the challenge and reward of wrestling with the massive theological issues that permeate it. How can suffering be endured alongside faith in an all-loving, good God? Even if these events are recognized and accepted as God's judgment, has not the flood of brutality and evil gone beyond all bounds? If anarchy, death and destruction stalk the land, can the centre of Israel's faith hold?

Wright shows that as Christian readers we must not, and cannot, isolate Lamentations from the rest of the Bible; and equally, that we should not read the rest of the Bible without Lamentations. We must still let it speak for itself, as a book for today.

Using personal anecdote, a witty and lively style, and drawing on his considerable theological knowledge, John Goldingay takes us deep into the unfolding story of the Old Testament.

Does atheism really explain everything?

Can reasonable people take Christianity seriously?

During the early twenty-first century, New Atheism was busy producing best-selling books and plastering adverts on the sides of buses. Its loud scepticism is not as popular these days, but many of its arguments live on.

Yet, what if some of its common claims like, "science has buried God" and "religion is the cause of most wars" are not just incorrect, but demonstrably wrong? What if Richard Dawkins and the other New Atheists were not merely barking up the wrong tree, but were in the wrong forest entirely?

Andy Bannister brings you this fully updated and revised book, with new chapters, new resources and new comedy. The Atheist Who Didn't Exist is designed for curious people to tug at the loose threads of atheism and see if it unravels.

The 2018 Year Book from Keswick contains a selection of talks from this year's convention. The contributors include

Christopher Ash
Richard Dannatt
Louise Morse
Chris Chia
Alasdair Paine
Rodgers Atwebenbeire
Jonty Allcock

Looking for answers to those big faith questions?

If God, Then What?' is a profound, quirky and amusing take on life's biggest questions. We encounter truth by sharing stories and asking questions. Andrew Wilson asks nine big questions about truth, origins and redemption, and wonders aloud about the possible answers, offering a fresh way of looking at life and a different way of communicating the gospel.

As he ponders those questions with you, the author will leave you with a fresh, new and exciting perspective on the life-giving gospel of Christ.

'A rather impressive young Christian.' The Times

'The best book on apologetics that has come from these shores for a decade. It will bring a smile to your face and present numerous eureka moments. And Andrew does it in this mad conversational style.'- Christianity Magazine

LESS > Fake
LESS > Shame
LESS > Masks
MORE > Real

Jesus promises ‘life and life to the full’. So why do so many people walk away from faith – and not just teenagers but people who have been in church for years?

The full life offered is one of genuine relationship with God and others, but has our tendency to fight vulnerability, mask weakness and hide disappointment cost us the real thing? Have we tried to keep it together, keep the faith, until we simply can’t do it anymore?

Following Jesus should not require fronts: when we fully grasp the love of God towards us, in all our mess and sin and doubt, we experience the freedom that vulnerability, honesty, and sacrifice brings. That’s real life; life to the full.

MORE > Real explores how we can build lives on truth, and cultivate a real faith that lasts through the storms of life.

The case for assisted suicide can seem so compelling. Surely it can't be wrong to help desperate people to kill themselves? Don't we have a right to take our own lives in certain circumstances?

There are no trite or easy answers. John Wyatt helps us to navigate the arguments with hearts and heads engaged, and above all with our Bibles open. There are practical and compassionate alternatives to assisted suicide, and as many who have gone before us have found, the end of our lives on this earth may turn out to be a strange and wonderful opportunity for growth and internal healing.

This timely book gives a voice to those living with HIV who are too often ignored or misunderstood by the Church and other religious institutions – including those in positions of care who may have thought they were helping but have ended up doing more harm than good.

The book exposes and challenges attitudes of institutional blindness and abuse and suggests some positive means of remedy, all of which have been formed and tested with the help of clients at the London HIV Chaplaincy.

With its powerful combination of moving personal testimony and honest pastoral reflection, this book will encourage a more informed, sensitive and effective interaction with many who, for whatever reason, feel marginalised by our society and alienated by those who most want to help.

As Rowan Williams says in his foreword, 'This book is a proclaiming of the gospel as well as a call to judgement. It is necessary material for the self-examination and self-awareness of any Christian minister or community, if the Church’s claim to be what it is supposed to be is not to go on being so hollow for so many who need to hear that their agency and dignity are understood and honoured.'

'It has been slowly dawning on me over many years that there is a fundamental problem deep at the heart of Christian faith and practice as I have known them . . . we have all forgotten what the four Gospels are about.'

With that surprising assertion, Tom Wright launches this ground-breaking work in which he helps us to see the gospel story in radically a new light, and to acknowledge that, for many generations, the Church has been avoiding its full impact and holding back from proclaiming its full meaning.

'Classic Wright: clear, accessible, robust, engaging and challenging.'
Paula Gooder in Third Way

'Scholarly, accessible, insightful and provocative.'
Christianity

'Wright argues compellingly that the twin themes of kingdom and cross are inseparably linked. . . This is a much-needed reorientation. The book makes its case for 'rethinking' cogently and deserves widespread attention.'
Theology

Tony Lane surveys a wide range of doctrines relating to our experience of God’s gracious salvation.

He begins with our need as sinful and fallen people, moves on to consider what is involved in becoming a Christian - majoring on justification (being put right with God) – and concludes with sanctification (living the Christian life). As well as expounding various aspects of these doctrines, Lane introduces their historical roots in classical expositions.

Lane warns that these doctrines are in danger of being lost by significant sectors of evangelicalism, and he explains them clearly. He encourages readers to hold firmly to an evangelical soteriology, having a greater understanding of it and a stronger conviction of its truth, with experience of its application to Christian discipleship.

The Old Testament books of wisdom and poetry carry themselves differently from those of the Pentateuch, the histories or the prophets.

The divine voice does not peal from Sinai, there are no narratives carried along by prophetic interpretation nor are oracles declaimed by a prophet. Here Scripture often speaks in the words of human response to God and God's world. The hymns, laments and thanksgivings of Israel, the dirge of Lamentations, the questionings of Qohelet, the love poetry of the Song of Songs, the bold drama of Job and the proverbial wisdom of Israel all offer their textures to this great body of biblical literature. Then too there are the finely crafted stories of Ruth and Esther that narrate the silent providence of God in the course of Israelite and Jewish lives.

This third Old Testament volume in IVP's celebrated "Black Dictionary" series offers nearly 150 articles covering all the important aspects of Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Psalms, Song of Songs, Lamentations, Ruth and Esther. Over 90 contributors, many of them experts in this literature, have contributed to the 'Dictionary of the Old Testament: Wisdom, Poetry and Writings'. This volume maintains the quality of scholarship that students, scholars and pastors have come to expect from this series.

Coverage of each biblical book includes an introduction to the book itself as well as separate articles on their ancient Near Eastern background and their history of interpretation. Additional articles amply explore the literary dimensions of Hebrew poetry and prose, including acrostic, ellipsis, inclusio, intertextuality, parallelism and rhyme. And there are well-rounded treatments of Israelite wisdom and wisdom literature, including wisdom poems, sources and theology. In addition, a wide range of interpretive approaches is canvassed in articles on hermeneutics, feminist interpretation, form criticism, historical criticism, rhetorical criticism and social-scientific approaches.

The 'Dictionary of the Old Testament: Wisdom, Poetry and Writings' is sure to command shelf space within arm's reach of any student, teacher or preacher working in this portion of biblical literature.

Fully revised and updated edition.

This companion volume to Craig Blomberg's widely-appreciated Jesus and the Gospels covers the rest of the New Testament, from the Acts of the Apostles to the book of Revelation.

It surveys the most crucial matters of introduction in sufficient detail to provide the necessary background for correct interpretation of these New Testament texts. Mindful of the needs and interests of twenty-first-century students, the authors also deal with the structure and contents of each book, and the distinctive exegetical issues, and give pointers to contemporary application. The clear, accessible and up-to-date text includes numerous figures, maps and bibliographies.

From Pentecost to Patmos enables readers to come to a better understanding of first-century Christianity and its literature that came to be treated as uniquely authoritative. This will lead to a greater appreciation of the Lord Jesus Christ, worshipped by the early church, often in hostile circumstances and in the face of difficulties remarkably similar to those the church experiences today throughout the world.

God is looking for the kind of person he can use. Thankfully, he isn't put off very easily in his search. When Samson failed, he found Samuel. When Saul failed, he found David. When David failed, he lovingly restored him and used him again. God is still looking for the kind of person he can use. This book will help you become the kind of person he is looking for.

A new series of devotional commentaries enabling people to get to grips with the Bible one bite at a time.

Focusing on key sections, Phil Moore gives a useful introduction to each book of the Bible. There will be 25 volumes in all, each containing approximately 60 readings. The tone is light and the text is full of useful application, making it a great resource for daily devotions. It is backed by substantial scholarship for those who want more. These readings from 1and 2 Samuel provide insights into some of the greatest characters of the Old Testament, notably into the life and motivations of King David.

One morning, Rabbit discovers a birthday parcel addressed to him. Inside is a Bible and on the flyleaf is written 'Read Me'. As he wonders at this odd present a brightly painted gypsy-style caravan hurtles down the road - and narrowly misses him. Rabbit picks up the book and joins the caravan travellers - Hector the horse, Caravan Bear and Whitby (female) the dog.

The Animals' Caravan, has echoes of children's classics such as Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland as Rabbit leaves his home to set out on an unexpected journey - a journey to find friendship and make sense of the world around him. He also finds himself on a journey of faith as he and his new friends wrestle with some of the often difficult concepts in the bible, thereby gaining fresh insights and understanding of God's loving involvement and care for the world.

The travelling life of the caravan and its occupants provide the opportunity for Rabbit to share these tales with other animals they meet and they join Caravan Bear, Whitby and Hector in listening - and learning from - the stories. He is frequently interrupted by questions from his listeners, the kind of questions any child - or adult - might ask.

The real and often humorous events that happen to Rabbit and his friends are mirrored by the stories from the Bible enabling children to realise that the stories have relevance and meaning today.

Contents
1 The Caravan Sets Off 7
2 Adam and Eve Genesis 2-3 18
3 The Two Brothers Genesis 4 32
4 Jonah's Watery Adventure Jonah 42
5 The Babbling Tower Genesis 11 59
6 Noah and the Flood Genesis 6-9 72
7 Joseph and His Brothers Genesis 37 85
8 Crossing the Red Sea Exodus 4-14 100
9 Ruth's New Home Ruth 120

The root of the word 'mission' means 'sending'. 

All Christian mission has its fountainhead in the God revealed in Scripture, who sent his Son for us, sends his Spirit to us, and summons all people to himself. The privilege and responsibility of his church, sent into all the world, is to testify by his words and deeds to Jesus Christ, God's unique son, crucified, risen and ascended.

The East-West partnership in missiological exploration expounds a variety of Old and New Testament texts, and examines a wide range of issues. The authors' desire is that Jesus Christ might be glorified more and more in the church and in the world; their eager expectation is that one day the whole creation will find its consummation in him, and God will be all and in all.

From popular carols to classic pop songs, Carrie and David Grant invite to you reflect with them on what makes Christmas music so special.

As well as Carrie and David's personal insights, this colourful gift book includes fascinating anecdotes about the people who wrote the songs and the amazing artists who've performed them, ensuring their permanent place in the hearts of all who love Christmas and its message of peace and joy to all the world.

This sparkling gift book is for all who love Christmas and the music that comes with it; beautifully produced in hardback format, and decorated throughout in Christmas colours.

Contents
1 Songs from long ago
Including: Ding Dong! Merrily on High, O Come all Ye Faithful and The Holly and the Ivy
2 Best-loved carols
Including: Away in a Manger, In the Bleak Mid Winter and Silent Night
3 Holiday songs
Including: Let it Snow! White Christmas and Winter Wonderland
4 Time to party!
Including: Merry Xmas Everybody, Rocking Around the Christmas Tree and Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer
6 Friends and family
Including: All I Want for Christmas is You, Feliz Navidad and Last Christmas
7 Songs for the world
Including: Do They Know it's Christmas? , Happy Xmas (War is Over) and When a Child is Born

Millions have read his words or heard him speak.

Now here’s a chance to find out more about the man behind the books and speeches.

Be a fly on the wall as two friends – one the former Archbishop of Canterbury, the other ‘one of America's leading voices on religion and culture’ (BBC Radio) – talk about their shared passions and interests.

This is Rowan Williams at his most relaxed and personal. Listen in as he reflects on the vital pursuits that have characterized his life and ministry: among them, friendship, imagination, popular culture, faith and politics, prayer, and the blessings of sacred community.

Rowan Williams has made a unique contribution to the spiritual life of the English-speaking world. This eminently accessible introduction to the man and his thought reveals why.

The second - thoroughly updated and revised - edition of a bestselling textbook that surveys the grand narrative of the Bible, demonstrating how the biblical story forms the foundation of a Christian worldview.

The Drama of Scripture provides an engaging overview of the storyline and theology of the Bible. The authors work their way through the Bible as a drama with six acts - creation, sin, Israel, Jesus, mission and new creation.

Their study provides an introduction to the Bible and a commentary on important passages, while helping the reader relate their story to the Bible story at each point.

Now you can journey through the Bible from your living room chair!

Journey through the Bible is a unique resource that approaches the Bible story by story. In these pages you will discover around 250 of our favourite Bible stories presented with background information in word and picture. 

This storehouse of authentic material includes these features:

• OVER 400 COLOURFUL PAGES OF PHOTOGRAPHS, DRAWINGS, MAPS, AND CHARTS
• MORE THAN 100 DRAWINGS FROM OBJECTS OR MONUMENTS OF BIBLE TIMES
• OVER 200 PHOTOGRAPHS OF BIBLE LANDS TODAY
• PHOTOGRAPHS OF MORE THAN 50 ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES
• SCORES OF RECONSTRUCTIONS AND DIAGRAMS
• DOZENS OF COLOURFUL MAPS.

This easy-to-read, visual exploration of the Bible allows you to follow the narrative from Genesis to Revelation. The stories of Scripture will come alive as you travel through Bible lands and times. You will discover how ancient people really lived – the foods they ate, the homes they lived in, the clothes they wore, the work they performed.

Every library – home, church, and school – will want this complete reference work on its shelves. It will enrich children’s and youth session preparation, Bible storytelling, family devotions, and Bible study. Journey through the Bible is unparalleled as a user-friendly resource.

Among a variety of religious authorities espousing different teachings, how were they to know who was right? How were men and women to be put right with God? How could Christians in the midst of a pagan culture live lives truly pleasing to God? 

'Only one way -' answered Paul, 'through Jesus Christ.' His answer holds true for us as well. The details of our struggle have changed since Paul's day, but the principles he sets forth are as timeless as the Lord he exalts.

Family life has undergone revolutionary changes in Western society in the last sixty years, posing both theological and ethical challenges for the contemporary church. This book responds with wide-ranging essays on sexuality, marriage, family life, singleness, same-sex relationships, violence against women, anthropology, gender and culture.

These chapters are essential reading for anyone concerned with Christian teaching on marriage and the family. They balance a clear loyalty to the church’s historic and biblical teaching with a recognition that all doctrine is contextualized. There is a growing gap between the ethics of many Christians and those of wider society. So Christians have to be counter-cultural. But the church also has to be self-critical, differentiating between biblical revelation and cultural development. And it must know how to present unchanging Christian convictions to a constantly changing society.

The contributors are Andy Angel, Daniel Block, Rosalind Clarke, Barry Danylak, Andrew Goddard, Stephen Holmes, David Instone Brewer, A. T. B. McGowan, Nicholas Moore, Onesimus Ngundu, Oliver O'Donovan, Ian Paul, Andrew Sloane, Katy Smith, Elaine Storkey and Sarah Whittle.

For many the resurrection is a nice thing to believe, the 'happy' ending to the gospel, as though after the darkness of the cross Spielberg was brought in to do the finish.
But Lifted shows that it's far more. The resurrection has overwhelmingly positive implications for our daily lives. Through it we can have real assurance of forgiveness and salvation. We are raised and empowered to live new, transformed lives. We have hope after death for our bodies and this physical world. We see the urgency of reaching all nations with the message of the risen Jesus. Life is now different: we have been lifted.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just for Easter. It's for all of life.

In the busyness and challenges of daily life, it's easy to put showing gratitude low on our priority list. Yet Scripture continually reveals how important gratitude is for God's people-in good times and bad.

In this eight-session LifeBuilder Bible study guide, Dale and Sandy Larsen help us explore how giving thanks reminds us of what God has done, reorients us around God's grace, and helps us enjoy the gifts we have received instead of taking them for granted. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Gratitude encourages us to grow in trust and joy as we hold tight to God's goodness in life's ups and downs.

Gratitude features questions that can be used both individually or in small groups, and its ready-to-use Bible studies are perfect for the busy homegroup leader. It is a brilliant resource for anyone wanting to understand Biblical teaching on gratitude better, and for those looking for guidance in expressing Christian gratitude and ways to give thanks.

‘As we contemplate the coming months, not knowing when we can breathe again, it’s worth thinking about how already the foundations have been laid for whatever new opportunities God has for us on the far side of this crisis.’

Rowan Williams offers these words of wisdom and many more in Candles in the Dark. This powerful and timely book brings together the 26 weekly Christian meditations originally posted online from March to September 2020, during lockdown in the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, for the congregation of his local parish church.

Candles in the Dark is a lovely Christian book of comfort for anyone looking for the light in these dark times. Written with warmth and compassion, these meditations offer us hope and encouragement as we continue to endure the most devastating and disturbing world crisis for over a generation. They will leave you spiritually uplifted and with a strengthened faith to guide you through whatever may come.

"It is a real pleasure to find what many readers are always on the lookout for: a new and original writer of a rattling good story told with intelligence and depth." The Tablet

Parson's daughter Mara Johns arrives as a postgraduate student at a great northern cathedral city. Antagonistic to the church and fiercely independent, she repels all friendly overtures and seeks spiritual answers in her theological research. But when her past involvement in an extreme sect resurfaces, she finds her quest won't stay academic. Nor can she hold out against her persistent would-be friends.

Gradually she unbends and laughs with Maddy and May; locks horns with the insufferable 'polecat' - and finds herself torn between the attentions of two suitors. But they are both ordinands, and she's vowed she'll never marry a vicar. When her carefully controlled world falls apart, it is these new friends she must turn to if she wants to survive.

As intricate as a Fabergé egg, as multi-layered as an onion, Ruth is the story of ordinary people working out how to live in God’s loving ways through agonising personal circumstances. It’s also an account of how the God of love works through faithful people to fulfil his purposes for them, for their nation, and indeed for all humankind.
In this six-session guide, Mark Greene’s astute questions, mini-features, and contemporary stories will help you to appreciate the book’s drama, wonder afresh at the Lord’s grace, and find inspiration and encouragement for all of life, Monday to Sunday.
The fourth in this seven-study series from LICC, developed to enable Christians to read, reflect on, and see the implications of the Bible for themselves and their daily contexts – their frontlines.

In Christmas the Original Story Margaret Barker explores the nature of the Christmas stories and the nature and use of Old Testament prophecy.

Beginning with John's account, it then goes on to include Luke and Matthew, the apocryphal gospels, and the traditions of the Coptic Church, to throw light upon wise men and their gifts, the character of Herod, Matthew's use of prophecy, the holy family in Egypt.

This book also discusses the stories we get from the Infancy Gospel of Jesus and the development of the Orthodox Christmas icon, as well as the Christmas story and the Mary material in the Koran.

This is an accessible book based on scholarly work.

This book contains 6 of Bob Hartmans immensely popular retellings, selected from The Lion Storyteller Bedtime Book, The Lion Storyteller Book of Animal Tales and The Lion Storyteller Christmas Book.

Arranged under broad themes - the series features stories about animals, Christmas and from the folk tradition - many of the stories also introduce 'citizenship' themes and values through story.

These entertaining short stories work especially well when read aloud and will also appeal to newly confident readers.

The Essential History of Christianity covers both the key historical events and the big picture.

Miranda Threlfall-Holmes helps us to understand what has gone on in the past, and sheds light on our present experiences of churches, religion, spirituality and religious conflict. She also gives important clues about what might happen in the future.

This entertaining and accessible guide makes sense of a fascinating subject, providing a clear overview of the broad sweep of Christian history, and is indispensible for those beginning to study Christianity or the Church.

In the warzone that Nigeria has become, Archbishop Ben Kwashi has survived three assassination attempts.

A brutal assault on his wife, Gloria, drove him to his knees - to forgive and find the strength to press on. Islamist militants have Nigeria in their sights. These are the terrorists who kidnapped hundreds of Christian schoolgirls - who have vowed to turn Africa's most populous nation into a hard-line Islamic state. Their plan is to drive the Christian minority from the north by kidnapping, bombing and attacking churches. Plateau State is on the frontline.

But holding that line against Boko Haram, and standing firm for the Gospel, is Ben Kwashi, the Anglican Archbishop of Jos.

In Jos, churches have been turned into fortresses and Archbishop Ben now conducts more funerals than weddings and baptisms put together. Yet his faith grows ever more vibrant. He has adopted scores of orphans who live in his home, including many who are HIV positive. And the challenge of his message - to live for the Gospel even in the face of terror - has never been so timely.

Mel Starr's latest novel is a thoroughly enjoyable medieval crime mystery. It may be enjoyed as complete in itself, or as part of the Hugh de Singleton series.

When Hugh and Kate's new-born son is taken to the church to be baptized, they are astounded to find that the locked font is completely dry. The possibility of a leak is quickly ruled out, and just as Hugh is beginning to wonder if there may be a sinister explanation for the stolen holy water, Fr Robert is found lying motionless by the rood screen in a pool of blood...

Meanwhile, parliament has passed a poll tax, stipulating everyone above the age of 14 is to be taxed equally. Folk are soon scrambling to find the money to pay and, inevitably, unscrupulous elements in society see an opportunity to feed off people's desperation and make some cash... But what connection can there possibly between this and events at Bampton?

This book teaches the basics of the Christian faith, looking first at what Jesus himself taught, and then at what his apostles had to say. It is for anyone who wants to follow Jesus, but is not sure or would like to be reminded of the way.

In short clear steps, Dr Peter Walker takes us through the basics of enjoying Jesus' forgiveness, welcoming his Spirit and feeding on his scriptures; then explores the principles of worshipping with his people, following his teaching and trusting him with our future.

This classic of the field has been revised and is accompanied by access to an online PDF workbook and video content.

Finding Mr Goldman tells of the epic battle of good and evil played out in the life and sudden death of a wicked man.
Had he known the hour of his death, the wealthy Harry Goldman might have arranged his day differently. Instead he finds himself plunged into a nightmare in which his life of violence and ruthless greed is laid bare before him.
Accompanied by a disreputable looking but likeable tramp, who bears a striking resemblance to Jesus, Goldman sets out on a quest to save his soul. But confronted by the shattering reality of hell, he realises all is lost. It is only then that he discovers the redeeming love of God . . .

Where are you?

Today, your favourite maps app will give you your location down to a greater level of detail than ever before. But do you really feel like you know where you are?

Major cultural shifts over the past generation have left us feeling disorientated; constant connection has left us feeling dislocated. And many of us are searching for something we can't seem to find. Could the problem be that we have lost a place for God?

Pete Nicholas invites you to explore the big questions asked by each generation from those of origin and identity to happiness and hope, arguing that by reinstating God's centrality in our lives we can find a sense of rootedness, peace and the answers we've been looking for.

Featuring a foreword by Timothy Keller, author, speaker and church leader.

Now in its third volume, Reverend Malcolm Duncan’s hugely popular #Niteblessings invites you again to encounter God at the close of each day.

Each of these blessings offers an opportunity to lay down the burdens of the day and meaningfully engage with the Holy Spirit. Simply written, yet profound, moving and insightful, this book will renew and strengthen you for your daily walk with God.

"It's easier to build strong children than repair broken men and women. This book provides an incredible opportunity for parents and guardians to start important conversations early on." – Guvna B, rapper, author and broadcaster

"Books like this are essential, the more children are comfortable talking about race the less barriers there will be between us." - Naomi and Natalie from Everydayracism

Do you want to raise anti-racist children? Do you long to learn but are too scared of saying or doing the wrong thing?

Then Talking to Children about Race is for you.

But before we start talking to our children, we must start chatting honestly with one another.

Broadcaster Loretta Andrews and the educator Ruth Hill had been friends for years before the shocking death of George Floyd made it impossible not to dig deeper into the topic of race and how to explain racism to their children.

Drawing on the very real conversations that ensued, this book invites you into the dialogue to better equip you to bring up anti-racist children.

With warmth and approachability, the authors provide a history of race and explore white privilege, unconscious bias and systematic racism. They offer practical tips, ideas and activities to help you to educate, empower and raise anti-racist children today.

"Loretta and Ruth have given us a treasure: a non-judgemental, open-hearted manual on ways to tackle the subject of race with our little ones." - Sarah Clarke (Disastersofathirtysomething)

"What I love the most is that you are part of change – a lasting change tribe. Ruth and Loretta have not only used their platform but their honest voices in sharing their experiences and research to be the conversation opener for children and families on anti-racism." - Dina Maktabi, Founded of Kensington Mums www.kensingtonmums.co.uk

"This is an incredibly helpful and well-written guide that I will go back to time and time again throughout raising my son!" – Emma Borquaye, author and founder of Girl Got Faith

"I really wanted to skim through this book, picking out little nuggets of wisdom, but paragraph after paragraph, chapter after chapter, I was engrossed!!" - Nana-Adwoa Mbeutcha, Co-Founder of Black Mums Upfront

Ancient authors and readers did not work with manuscripts the way we work with printed texts. It is thus all too easy to fall into anachronistic assumptions about how the Gospels were written. Writing the Gospels challenges such assumptions in the light of recent work on ancient media studies and suggests more appropriate models for the composition of the New Testament Gospels.

The main argument is that memory would have been central to the process of composition. The Evangelists almost certainly relied on their memory of the Hebrew Scriptures (and Israelite tradition in general) for their use of them. They will also have been both informed and constrained by the social memory of the primitive Church. It is argued here that they will most likely have relied on their memory of their written sources, or at least, that it is a better working assumption that they did so than that they necessarily worked with their written sources open in front of them. So, for example, Matthew may well have been used to performing Mark from memory and would have had no need to consult a copy if he used Mark as the basis of his own work.

While other aspects of ancient composition are addressed, the main concerns of this study are first to establish the centrality of memory in ancient composition and secondly to explore the implications of assuming that the Evangelists worked mainly from memory, as many of their contemporaries did.