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.

We’ve all heard the arguments that Christianity is irrelevant, irrational and even immoral. But what if the Christian faith makes sense of all that matters?

In this thoughtful, engaging book, Simon Edwards challenges the assumptions that may lead us to reject a faith and doubt something that we’ve never really had the chance to understand in the first place. From our need for meaning and significance, to our desires for truth, goodness, love and hope, he explores the things that matter to us as human beings and shows us why the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ might just make sense of them all.

The Sanity of Belief is a fresh take on apologetics, faith and doubt, that will leave you with a stronger understanding of Christian belief and how it relates to today’s world. It is ideal for anyone looking for a clear, down-to-earth introduction to Christianity, or for those wanting to reaffirm the foundations on which their faith is based.

Despite the teaching of the Bible and church tradition, it seems that many Christians can still lack an appreciation of God the Holy Spirit. He has sometimes been valued more for the gifts he bestows than for who he is; or he has been viewed simply as the 'third person of the Godhead'.

However, Keith Warrington's conviction is that the Holy Spirit is more important, more central, more immanently involved in his creation, the church, and individual believers, more often and more strategically, than many Christians realise.

When Jesus left his disciples and went to heaven, he gave the best gift he could - the Holy Spirit - knowing that he will be our dynamic guide and partner as we seek to live as God's people. In this practical, biblically based exploration of the Spirit, Warrington encourages believers to recognize that the same Spirit seeks to encounter us and desires that we encounter him.

Fun, thought-provoking, quick to rehearse and easy to perform, these sketches are designed for use in any setting where you'd like to entertain or stimulate discussion.

They are ideal for youth groups or schools, as sermon illustrations and as discussion starters.

Themes include: AIDS; singleness; church splits; dating unbelievers; evangelism; family tensions; lateness; midlife crisis; guilt; and many more.

The styles are varied, allowing room for straight drama, comedy, absurd wordplay, slapstick, and monologues.

This book is about the best news the world has ever heard - the message of salvation.

The Bible itself is the word of salvation, the message of grace that glorifies God by persuading sinners to believe in Jesus Christ.

Philip Ryken opens up God's saving message using the Bible's stories, sermons, letters and poems to explain its own theme of salvation. He has chosen nineteen biblical passages that take us deeper into the biblical teaching on salvation. The centerpiece of each passage has a familiar ring: election, deliverance, redemption, expiation, reconciliation, regeneration, justification, adoption, sanctification and glorification.

A passion for the grandness of God's work shows through as Philip Ryken illuminates the contours of the message of salvation.

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.

Explore the intersection of art movements and spirituality in this insightful book, linking the crucifixion, creation, and our commitment to environmental stewardship.

The book gives an account of various movements in art and their relation to the visual and in churches and in liturgy, for example the Franciscan movement, different approaches to the crucifixion, and the restoration of creation. It recovers the links between the cross and creation, and relates the baptismal covenant to a commitment to care for creation.

'Has the power to plant seeds of hope in your heart that when the storms come, it's possible not to be afraid.' - Rachel Gardner

One in four of us will experience mental health problems. Shame, fear, anger and despair are our unwelcome fellow travellers, as Rob Merchant knows to his cost. We can resort to self-medicating through consuming, working, or other distractions, to hide who we are. Rob has tried them and discovered they don't deliver.

Healing starts when we accept our vulnerability. True mental health - and true resilience - develop as we surrender wholly to Christ. Rob explores how we can move away from terror and self-loathing. As we acknowledge our vulnerability, and our place before God, we can discover forgiveness of others and of self, and find hope.

It is never easy, but it works, because it's true.

'Disarmingly honest, powerfully disruptive and reassuringly scriptural. A rare and precious gift.' - Krish Kandiah

Let's be honest. We're frequently disappointed. With family, friends, leaders, work, ourselves, church - sometimes, dare we say it, even with God.

'You carry the tears inside,' is the author's description.

Disappointment can be devastating. It can be sudden. And it's certainly universal.

But what if we were to use disappointment as an opportunity to check whether our motivation and priorities were in line with God's will? Could it provide a chance to grow?

'The author brings the wisdom of a skilled pastor and Bible teacher to this illuminating book.' Ian and Ruth Coffey

'Demonstrates that disappointments are designed by our loving and all-sovereign God to draw us into deeper intimacy with him.' Sharon James

'A book that was lived out before it was written.' Peter Lewis

'Every disappointment becomes an opportunity to grow deeply in God.' Charles Price

The crucifixion of Jesus: a dreadful mistake? A tragic failure? Irrelevant? Absurd? An embarrassment?

The cross of Christ is, in fact, at the centre of God's plan for men and women. This book explains why.

With freshness and clarity, Mark Meynell explores the Bible’s teaching, to show how God himself 'cross-examines' us in the death of Jesus.

At the cross, God exposes our deepest need, meets it fully and enables us to live transformed lives.

This revised and expanded edition includes new chapters on union with Christ and leadership.

David Adam believes that the way to get the most out of worship on Sundays is to pray regularly on weekdays.

Here, to help us in this duty and joy of preparation, he offers prayers that link with the readings for each Sunday and great festival of the Christian Year.

The prayers employ the Celtic emphasis and style that many people have found helpful in David's earlier books.They will be equally as helpful for those who do not use a weekly lectionary as for those who do.

The author sees clearly the reality in our lives both of the clouds - of sadness, misfortune, pain - and the glory to be found in God. He invites us to 'use these prayers as a vehicle to get out of the clouds and greyness to where you get a glimpse of glory'.

'Peaceful' is the most common entry in the visitors' book of fifteenth-century St Michael’s Church, with its glorious angel roof and its medieval Doom painting. But away from the church, and beneath the idyllic veneer, the tiny Norfolk village of Walston is anything but harmonious.

The Rector's new bride, Becca Thorncroft, is receiving phone calls so unpleasant that her very sanity is at stake; and the newest residents of Walston, Gillian English and Lou Sutherland, are not exactly welcomed with open arms. Then sudden, gruesome death shatters any remaining semblance of serenity.

Fortunately for Father Stephen Thorncroft, he is able to enlist the help of his friends Lucy Kingsley and David Middleton-Brown to unravel the tangled relationships and uncover the dark motivations of the villagers.

As the investigation proceeds, they stumble on more than they'd bargained for. But it is not until a little girl goes missing that the final, deadly pieces fall into place in their search for the 'evil angels among them'.

Experience the captivating world of medieval Bampton, Oxfordshire with Hugh de Singleton, surgeon and bailiff of Bampton Castle, as he faces his most dangerous case yet.

Master John Wyclif, known for his sharp tongue and wit, is at a loss when his books are stolen. Hugh must recover the books before it's too late, and he sets his sights on the clever and charming Kate to aid in the search. However, their adversaries are not to be underestimated, and a poor scholar is found dead in the river with ties to the stolen books.

Will Hugh and Kate be able to solve the mystery before more lives are lost?

Join them on their thrilling quest for the truth in the latest installment of the Hugh de Singleton series.

"Hugh de Singleton has come to Oxford seeking a wife. He finds treachery and murder. A Trail of Ink is a beautifully written medieval mystery set in 14th century Oxford. Mel Starr writes with the flowing language, startling detail and understated humor of one who has mastered his period and his craft." - Donna Fletcher Crow, author of A Very Private Grave

The last book of the Bible is not primarily about weird beasts, strange allegories, or encoded detail about the final years of Planet Earth. It's a book which focuses on one great fact which trumps all others throughout the whole of AD history. It's a simple fact, but a fact which changes everything: God is on the Throne of the universe, and he is working out his strategies from the control-room of Heaven.

God inspired the Bible for a reason. He wants you to read it and let it change your life. If you are willing to take this challenge seriously, then you will love Phil Moore's devotional commentaries.

Their bite-sized chapters are punchy and relevant, yet crammed with fascinating scholarship too. Welcome to a new way of reading the Bible with fresh eyes. Welcome to the Straight to the Heart series.

The bestselling Intercessions Handbook is designed for use in a wide range of formal and informal settings.

In two introductory chapters, John Pritchard considers the importance and challenges of the vital task of intercession.

He then offers practical examples of intercessions in traditional services, all-age worship, small groups and personal devotions.

Material for seasons, major festivals and special events is also included.

This is a new edition of a book that has become a key resource for church leaders all over the world.

Jesse trees (and later, stained glass windows), used in medieval times tell people Bible stories.

Using her skills as a storyteller and her love of the Bible, the author has written an intriguing story about the creation of a modern-day Jesse tree. She weaves evocative retellings of selected Bible stories with a sensitive contemporary story about the transforming power of love.

'With a plucky, compelling heroine, a novel steampunk-styled device, and a dragon, of course, this may well be the best book of the three!' - Bob Hartman, author and performance storyteller

Street-smart Anavah lives a tough life on the crime-ridden streets of northern Presadia. But when a mysterious tinker gives her a curious set of crystal goggles, she discovers a powerful magic that will change her life forever.

Drawn into an adventure that stretches across time and space, she learns about the legendary dragon riders and is caught up in events that will transform Presadia's history.

The question is: what part will Anavah play? Her life to date has taught her to trust no one, but that instinct may have devastating consequences...

Enter Presadia one more time to experience a third dazzling adventure. Meet friends old and new, and learn of the trust, betrayal, fear, bravery, greed, and sacrifice of individuals that lead to a struggle for Presadia's very existence.

In Romans 5-8 Paul speaks passionately of the love of God for mankind and the gift he offered us by sending Christ as our saviour.

As believers, we have immense privileges. We can have peace with God, union with Christ, freedom from the law and life in the spirit.

Today, more than ever, we need a robust understanding of the gospel. And the gospel is indeed good news!

In this 30-day devotional, beloved Bible teacher John Stott unpacks these passages and their full meaning, to show us how Paul's words, written nearly two thousand years ago, are still full of meaning and inspiration for Christians today.

A lucid account of the function of the Spirit in the growth of the church.

Through the history of God's people the constant element has been the presence of the Almighty. The baptism in the Holy Spirit, which so galvanized the young church, equipped and empowered the believers, boosting courage, fostering fluency and granting insights to ordinary men and women.

Terry Virgo was baptized in the Holy Spirit as a young believer, and delighted in the experience. 'As we began to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit, our church life was transformed,' he explains. 'The presence of the Holy Spirit changed everything.' As the Spirit moves, so there are healings, often dramatic. But there is more: a discovery of God's grace. As people discover grace for themselves a far more profound healing takes place, leading first to worship, then a recognition that we are a prophetic people.

Toby's cat, Jack, is THE best cat EVER. But Jack is getting old, and Toby will miss his furry best friend terribly when he's gone.

Then Toby meets a crazy cat called Humphrey. In this charming and beautifully illustrated picture book Rebecca Elliott addresses the difficult subject of a child's first experience of the death of a pet with warmth, sensitivity and well placed humour.

Awards:
2012 - DOLLY GRAY CHILDREN'S LITERATURE AWARD - WINNER
2011 JUNIOR MAGAZINE DESIGN AWARDS Most Promising New Talent - SHORTLISTED
2011 NASEN AWARDS (National Association of Special Education Needs) Inclusive Children's Book of the Year - SHORTLISTED
2011 NURSERY WORLD AWARDS Three to Fives New Launch - FINALIST
2010-11 PEOPLE'S BOOK PRIZE Children's Book of the Year - FINALIST
2012 - KATE GREENAWAY MEDAL - LONG LIST

Godly thriving leaders are precious and valuable, but developing those leaders is not easy. Many leaders feel stuck, tired and frustrated in their growth and calling. This can change.

In Mining for Gold, pastor and master-coach, Tom Camacho, offers a fresh perspective on how to draw out the best in ourselves and in those around us. Cutting through the complexity and challenges of leadership development, he gives us practical and effective tools to help leaders grow personally and develop those around them.

Coaching, through the power of the Holy Spirit, provides the clarity and momentum we need to grow. When we get clarity, everything changes. Coaching helps us better understand our identity in Christ, our God-given wiring, and how we naturally bear the most fruit.

There is gold in God's people, waiting to be discovered. Let’s learn to draw out that treasure and help others flourish in their life and leadership.

In the first book of the Young Joseph series, we find Joseph living in Canaan with his dad, stepmothers, eleven brothers - and lots of scene-stealing cows!

Joseph is his father's favourite, which makes his brothers very cross, especially when he tells them about the dream he has had in which the sun, moon and eleven stars bow down to him.

To cheer him up, Joseph's dad gives him a beautiful coat of many colours - a 'rainbow robe' to remind him that God loves everyone - even his brothers.

In the first decades after Christ a small movement from the Middle East rapidly grew to become an empire-wide phenomenon. Soon there were established Christian communities spreading from Jerusalem to Rome, all grappling with the same issue: how to live their new-found faith?

A Social History of the Early Church seeks to answer this question by exploring what life was actually like for the first Christians. Through detailed analyses of archaeological evidence and contemporary accounts, Simon Jones addresses topics such as the role of pagan religion, people's sources of entertainment, the nature of family life, how societies were structured and the changing role of women.

This book is a fascinating survey that brings this period vividly to life for scholars at all levels of study.

Historian of Christianity Ken Stewart is intent on setting the record straight about Reformed theology. He identifies ten myths held by either or both Calvinists and non-Calvinists and shows how they are gross mischaracterizations of that theological stream.

Certain of these persistent stereotypes that defy historical research often present a truncated view of the depth and breadth of the Reformed tradition. Others, although erroneous, are nevertheless used to dismiss outright this rich body of biblical theological teaching.

Some key questions Stewart explores in this provocative, informative and thoroughly researched book:

* Is the role reserved for John Calvin possibly exaggerated?
* Are there improper, as well as proper uses of the doctrine of predestination?
* To what extent is the popular acronym, T.U.L.I.P. a helpful device, and to what extent is it detrimental in encapsulating key doctrines?
* Should the Calvinist position towards movements of spiritual renewal be one of support, or one of suspicion?
* Didn't Calvinism more or less 'bring up the rear' in advancing the cause of world mission?
* Doesn't the Calvinist approach to Christianity encourage the belief that the redeemed will be saved irrespective of their conduct?
* Doesn't the Calvinist track-record show an at-best mixed legacy on critical issues such as race and gender relations?
* Hasn't the Calvinist concept of the church's role vis-a -vis the state tended toward theocracy?
* Isn't it true that Calvinistic expressions of Christianity have been a damper on the creative arts, whether the theater or painting or sculpture?

Commendations:
"Perhaps no movement in Christian history has suffered more from both its detractors and its admirers than Calvinism. In this book, Kenneth Stewart shatters ten persistent stereotypes about the Calvinist way of being a Christian and helps us to see why the Reformed faith continues to attract so many believers to the God of John Calvin."Timothy George, founding dean of Beeson Divinity School of Samford University
"With the growing resurgence of interest in Calvinism, Ken Stewart's deft discussion of the myths promoted by and against Calvinists is timely indeed. Sympathetic to this school of thought, though also deeply desirous of historical accuracy, this book will inform--and challenge-both friend and foe of the Calvinist vision." Dr. Michael A. G. Haykin, professor of church history and biblical spirituality, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

"Ken Stewart's book appears at a timely moment, when Calvinism is again in vogue. Drawing on both theological and historical evidence, Ken Stewart shows that Calvinism was not the narrow, exclusive preserve of a bunch of cranks but an outward-looking, mission-orientated, vibrant and this-worldly faith. May it do its part to clear away many of the misconceptions that have bedeviled Calvinism over the years!" Dr. David Ceri Jones, Aberystwyth University, Wales

The companion activity book to the fabulously fun picture puzzle book The Lion Picture Puzzle Bible.

Colour in the black and white line drawings of enlarged sections from the original illustrations, and complete the puzzles on each page.

Includes mazes, spot the difference, and search and find. Ingeniously detailed scenes can now be personalised with your own unique flair!

This unique set of daily readings from bestselling author Simon Guillebaud encourages the reader to live the Christian life without compromise and without restraint; to live on full throttle and with utter abandonment to Christ.

Simon Guillebaud has lived in Burundi since his early twenties. He takes unimaginable risks so much so that he didn't expect to live to the age of 30. He sees miraculous results time and again as he works tirelessly for the salvation, peace and prosperity of the country he loves and daily gives his life for. Burundi is a place where choices are vivid, stark and sometimes deadly. It is a front line state in a fragile democracy seeking to overcome a bloody past. The spiritual battle between the forces of light and the repressive power of the local witchdoctors is very real. It is in this context that Simon Guillebaud has learned the lessons he shares in this volume.

Succinct and engaging, these daily reading cover a separate topic every day. The range is striking and profound as Simon shares the things he has learned through the council of the Holy Spirit. Those who engage with this unique devotional will be challenged and ultimately changed.

A biblical, historical and theological investigation into the tendency of literary images to either enlighten or mislead, and how we can learn to distinguish between the two.

Part One considers key philosophical and aesthetic evaluations of literary images and symbols. The power of pictures is widely appreciated, as in the adage 'a picture is worth a thousand words'. Sometimes Christian discourse can be smothered by endless prose, which demands much inferential reasoning. There is, however, a contrary argument. An isolated visual representation can be misleading if it is improperly interpreted. For example, some mystical visions are interpreted as direct instructions from the Holy Spirit, as happened with the Radical Reformers, who advocated the Peasants' Revolt. Hence theories of symbol, metaphor, and visual representation must be examined.

Part Two discusses visual representation in the Old Testament, the teaching of Jesus, pictures and analogies in Paul, and the Book of Revelation. This shows the range of authentic visual representations. In contrast to biblical material, we find throughout Christian history abundant examples of misleading imagery which is often passed off as Christian. A notorious example is found in the visual representation and metaphors used by Gnostic writers. Almost as bad are some visual representations used by the medieval mystics, Radical Reformers, and extreme charismatics - all of which lack valid criteria of interpretation, relying instead on subjective conviction. Similarly, sermons and prayers today can be enriched with pictorial images, but some can be misleading and unhelpful for the life of the Church.

Do you feel frazzled? Frantic? Fearful you haven't got enough?

In a world obsessed with more, where potential is maximised, and busyness is glorified, another reality also exists: we all have limits - and many of us are living at the edge of them.

Why Less Means More shows you how saying no to one thing might mean saying yes to something far better.

What would it look like to pursue less success and more significance? To live with less complexity and more clarity? To chase less of the 'extraordinary' and celebrate more of the 'ordinary' moments that make up an extraordinary life?

Cathy Madavan, accomplished author and speaker, invites you to leave your fear and franticness behind and discover more space, simplicity and the truth that less really can lead to more.

'She creates such a feeling of the atmosphere of this Northumbrian island.' Crediton Country Courier

Grieving the loss of wife and mother, Aidan and Melangell visit the renowned spiritual retreat center on the British island of Lindisfarne so Aidan can share with bright eight-year-old Melangell one of the places that inspired Jenny to write her books.

There they meet up with Jenny's friend Lucy, a Methodist minister, who is teaching a course on the local Northumbrian saints. Lucy has brought Rachel, a troubled teenager, to the Holy Island in hopes that the remoteness and peace of the location will help her.

But when Rachel is found dead on the beach, everyone on the island is under suspicion. As investigators and Rachel's "friends" come to the island, Aidan and Lucy learn more about Rachel, and Lucy's past as a policewoman is revealed.

And so Aidan is drawn into his second mystery. Masterfully told by award-winning author Fay Sampson, Death on Lindisfarne explores the complicated motivations of fallen people against the backdrop of ancient holiness.

'A powerfully evoked sense of place and unfolding mystery is woven into a contemporary tale of tragedy turned sinister, on the ancient island of saints.' C. F. Dunn, author of Mortal Fire.

Everyone knows disciplemaking in churches is important - vital, even. But how do we move from good intentions to real transformation?

Drawing on LICC's engagement with thousands of UK churches and his decades of experience as a church leader, Ken Benjamin offers 20 ways to put whole-life discipleship at the heart of our churches - 20 vital signs of disciplemaking life. Together, they'll help you grow a culture that equips people to live out their faith in every part of life, not just through church activities.

The key is not to add to our stretched to-do lists, but to permeate everything we already do with new, refreshing perspective. Whole-life disciplemaking should be embedded rather than added, built in rather than bolted on. When this happens, the effect is life-changing - not only for congregations and church leaders but for the individuals, organisations and places they seek to serve.

Vital Signs works in tandem with LICC's online assessment tool, training videos and resources to help leadership teams assess, embed and maintain whole-life discipleship in the churches they serve. Discover more at licc.org.uk/vitalsigns.

Most Christians would say that they want to be like Jesus, but what does this look like in practice?

The really good news is that we don't need to wear flat sandals, speak Aramaic, ride donkeys and grow beards. Rather, the author takes us back to basics and shows us what the New Testament call to be like Jesus actually means. We learn how to become like Christ in godliness, in character, in serving, in compassion, in justice, in suffering and, last but certainly not least, in anticipation.

As people reborn in Christ's image, we have the responsibility, and the Holy Spirit's help, to work things through in daily life so that we live like Jesus in our very different world today.

This short book is biblical, practical, thought-provoking and accessible, and the latest in the popular IVP/Keswick Ministries series of study guides.

An accessible, down-to-earth introduction to the central aspects of Christian history, this Pocket Guide includes the stories of its key events and characters, bringing a wide range of chronological, geographical and doctrinal history vividly to life.

From the early church to the twenty-first century, this concise and fascinating book is a lively survey of the world's most widespread religion.

Covering topics as diverse as the Apostles and Constantine, the Celtic Church and the division between East and West, the Reformation and the Enlightenment to the modern age, this is an indispensable resource for understanding a truly global phenomenon: Christianity.

A resource for sufferers of dementia and their carers, offering consolation and support in tough times.

People coping with dementia, either their own or their relative's, are so shattered that they need help almost at the Lego box level.

'Worshipping with Dementia' gives hard-pressed people a book they can pick up and leaf through for words and Scriptures and prayers to help at any time: In the morning, in the evening, over coffee or in a crisis. The biggest thing it will do is let them know they are not alone.

The collection is topic related, so someone can turn to the page(s) on 'feeling rejected', or 'being misunderstood,' or 'being angry,' or 'feeling guilty' , or any one of the hundred and one things that affect them personally.

For many their faith is the only thing keeping them going. This book will strengthen that lifeline.

At the height of the Lebanese civil war in the 1980s over 100 foreign civilians were taken hostage by Islamic Jihad. As the Archbishop of Canterbury's special envoy, Terry Waite conducted several successful missions to negotiate the release of numerous hostages. But in January 1987, while on one of his many visits to Beirut, he was captured himself.

Imprisoned for nearly five years, four of them in solitary confinement, he was chained, beaten, frequently blindfolded, and subjected to a mock execution. In this moving sequence of poems and reflections Terry Waite recalls the highs and lows of his life, both during that ordeal and throughout the happier years of humanitarian work that have followed.

They give us a glimpse into the depths of faith, hope and love that sustained him through that intense time of suffering. They also take us into memories of his later life, reminding us of the joy and contentment to be found in meaningful work, and in the humanity we share each day with those around us.

Out of the Silence not only offers a rare insight into one man's experience in the throes of a bitter conflict of the past; it also bears witness to the enduring power of forgiveness, truth and reconciliation in the face of adverse forces at work in the world today.

With over 40,000 copies in print since its original publication in 1982, Steve Evans's Philosophy of Religion has served many generations of students as a classic introduction to the philosophy of religion from a Christian perspective. Over the years the philosophical landscape has changed, and in this new edition Zach Manis joins Evans in a thorough revamping of arguments and information, while maintaining the qualities of clarity and brevity that made the first edition so appreciated.

New material on divine foreknowledge and human freedom has been added as well as on Reformed epistemology. The discussions on science now cover new developments from cognitive psychology and naturalism as well as on the fine-tuning of the cosmos. The chapter on faith and reason has been expanded to include consideration of evidentialism. The problem of evil now forms its own new chapter and adds a discussion of the problem of hell.

The standard features remain: a survey of the field, an examination of classical arguments for God's existence, and an exploration of contemporary challenges to theism from the social sciences and philosophy as well as the natural sciences. The meaning and significance of personal religious experience, revelation and miracles - all within the realm of contemporary religious pluralism - are likewise investigated.

A classic introduction thoroughly updated and refreshed for today's student.

Discipline. Endurance. Perseverance. The Christian life is like a racecourse, a marathon, set out before us. There is a reward in running well but particularly in finishing. Christians agree that this is a consistent pattern of New Testament teaching.

But is the prize an extra bonus, a reward for having finished well? Or is the prize salvation itself? And if the prize is salvation, can it be lost? Or is everyone who has signed up and started the race guaranteed a share in the prize - even if they quit before the end or follow a different course?

Do the warnings in Scripture tell us that it's up to us to succeed or fail in the race? If so, is there no assurance of our salvation? Or can we be assured that 'once saved, always saved,' and only a difference in rewards awaits us? Are there other ways of looking at these issues? These questions of perseverance in the Christian life and assurance of salvation have puzzled Christians for generations.

In this exploration of biblical theology of perseverance and assurance, Thomas Schreiner and Ardel Caneday weigh and consider all of the relevant New Testament texts. Applying sound principles of biblical interpretation and conversing with recent evangelical thought, they give us a foundational study with profound spiritual implications for Christian living and pastoral ministry.

David Adam has spent a lifetime exploring the depths of God's love, and this richly contemplative collection of new prayers and meditations draws us very near to the heart of the Trinity.

Based on 'the prayer of seven directions', Encompassing God seeks to increase our awareness of being held by God.

We are nurtured at every moment of our existence in the encompassing love of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Whatever we might be facing, we can trust that God is before us and behind us. He is on our right and on our left; above us, beneath us - and gloriously alive within.

An illustrated reader retelling the story of three friends standing strong against bowing down to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden statue even though they would be thrown into a fire. But God cares and stood with them, helping them to have courage.

A reassuring story to help young children talk to parents or those who care for them about situations when they need courage to face hard things, new situations and doing the right thing, and that God can help make us brave.

The 'God cares' series provides a Biblical approach to discussing emotions and behaviour with children to nurture an attitude of wellness. Children at different ages approach things differently in their stages of emotional development, so this series works at two different levels: illustrated Readers aimed at 5-7 year olds and Chapter books aimed at 8+ years. Please note that children progress at different reading abilities and stages of emotional development so the age ranges are only a guide for parents and carers.

The Bible stories are retold reflecting on the emotions and encourages children to discuss and relate this within their situations. Sections at the back provide a reflective space for children and practical advice for parents and carers.

Debbie Duncan, author of The Art of Daily Resilience and Brave, is a nurse and a teacher, and mother of four children. She has considerable insight into what constitutes resilience and bravery: the ability to cope, to stay on course, to bounce back. In her books she considers what is required for physical, mental, and spiritual durability, interweaving biblical teaching, prayers, with personal anecdote and sound advice. This she now applies specifically to support parents and carers raising children.

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.

"She has again succeeded in creating a cast of compelling characters (some of whom made their first appearance in Angels and Men), whose fate one becomes anxious to discover."

Kate Chisholm, Sunday TelegraphAnnie Brown, wrestling with doubts about her faith and a biological clock the size of Big Ben, escapes the stifling kindness of her fellow ordinands and the stifled yelps of her sexuality by writing a raunchy novel.

Yet Annie can no more control her characters than she could a congregation. Outrageous Isabella and butter-wouldn't-melt Barney hurtle unbidden into difficult situations that lead Annie inexorably back to her own repressed upbringing and present predicament. Some of their liberation rubs off on her too, and when she meets brusque outsider Will, Annie plunges into passion as uninhibitedly as Isabella.

But Annie's vocation, like her libido, won't lie down, and she despairs of finding a happy ending to either of her stories...

Six small volumes offering answers to children's big questions about God, the Bible, prayer, Jesus, Christmas, and Easter, collected together in a little slipcase.

Illustrated with charming pictures of families and children, this collection makes a wonderful gift or award.

The books included in this collection are:
- Would you like to know the Bible?
- Would you like to know the Story of Christmas?
- Would you like to know How to Pray?
- Would you like to know about God?
- Would you like to know the Story of Easter?
- Would you like to know Jesus?

The original Thank God for Football! was published to great acclaim in 2006.

This new edition, with abbreviated text, contains almost 120 illustrations. It gathers together a huge number of rare images of founders, founding churches and early teams. It includes contemporary photographs of streets where players lived, pubs in which they socialized and churches where they gathered. Furthermore, it offers images reflecting the impact of Thank God for Football!: the restoration of founders' graves, the inducting of Christian founders into Halls of Fame, and features in match programmes and club magazines.

A church united in truth and mission could be much more fruitful in serving th Lord.

Jesus prayed that all his disciples would be one... and yet we are a long way from that.

It appears that divisions within the evangelical world are hardening, with many of us going to those conferences, listening to those speakers and reading those books and newspapers which will simply confirm us within our tribal divisions - and we are increasingly neglecting our God-given responsibility to seek for unity. David Coffey has worked across the tribes for many years, and in this book he calls on all evangelicals to be prepared to pull down their barriers and to reach out to each other, for the sake of reaching this needy nation with the gospel.

'This is a timely book. Evangelical unity is not a luxury, but is crucial to the vitality and credibility of our life and witness.'
- The Revd Jonathan Edwards, General Secretary, Baptist Union of Great Britain.

'Coming from the pen of a Christian Statesman who has 'earned the right to be heard', this publication could transform the ecclesiastical landscape were its message to be welcomed and embraced.'
- John Glass, General Superintendent, Elim Pentecostal Churches.

'This is a valuable book on a crucial subject for today's evangelical community.' -
John Risbridger, Above Bar Church.

'Linking unity with effective evangelism, David tackles the issue of evangelical tribalism with disarming clarity and honesty.'
- Marcus Honeysett, Living Leadership Director.

Just Because is a heart-warming picture book by Rebecca Elliott, telling the delightful story of a brother's love for his sister.

'My big sister Clemmie is my best friend. She can't walk, talk, move around much, cook macaroni, pilot a plane, juggle or do algebra. I don't know why she doesn't do these things. Just because.'

This charming picture book covers the issue of disability in a unique and beautiful celebration of sibling friendship to which all children can relate.

The brother delights in telling us about just how special his sister is and about all the fun things they do together.

This amusing and often touching story encompasses the issue of disability in a charming celebration of sibling friendship to which all children can relate.

'An extraordinary, authentic example of discipleship, and the honouring and validation of the radiant "broken jewels" on society's margins. ' Stewart Henderson, poet, broadcaster and lyricist

Zac's Place is a church in Swansea. It is a small chaotic community of Jesus followers where some of the most fragile of life's walking wounded try to work out their faith. It's also the spiritual home for the local chapter of God's Squad motorcycle club.

Zac's Place, founded in 1998, is led by Sean Stillman, whose front-line ministry has cost him dearly and has included physical beatings. In Zac's Place, chaos and disorder sit alongside community and grace in an environment resembling an AA meeting mixed with a casualty department.

This is Sean's personal story of a transformed faith amid the broken, the church community that formed from it and the European-wide growth of an unlikely bunch of biker missionaries. God's Biker asks the questions, 'What if it's not about perfection? What if it's about beauty in broken places?'

This BIG book is ideal for shared reading.

Derived from the award-winning My Very First Bible, this well-known Bible story is presented in simple words and illustrated with child-friendly paper collage illustrations.

Notes are included for parents and teachers putting the story in context and giving ideas for discussion. The story is written in full on the back cover to help show the illustrations at the same time as reading to a large group.

Where is Pentecostal theology going in the 21st century?
How does it address issues of spirituality, politics and justice?
What does it have to offer the worldwide Church?

These and other vital questions are explored here by leading Pentecostal theologians from the UK and the USA as they assess the challenges and opportunities facing Pentecostalism today.

With stimulating contributions by Joel Edwards, Charlotte Johnson, Steven Land, Douglas Nelson, Phyllis Thompson and Keith Warrington, this book offers valuable guidance to church leaders and to students training for the ministry throughout the Pentecostal world.

'There is passion and information here, advice for the present and hope for the future.'
William K. Kay, Institute for Pentecostal Theology, Regents Theological College

'When we consider that one in four Christians are Pentecostals, this book is a "must" for all who are seeking to improve their knowledge of Pentecostal theology and recognize its distinctives.'
Bishop Dr Donald Bolt, New Testament Church of God England and Wales

'I'm looking for the words and writing for those who can't imagine the words.'

Mark Meynell articulates a heart pain that most of us simply couldn't express. He connects strongly and immediately with fellow cave-dwellers.

If you're after neat conclusions and a fair-weather faith, this is not for you. This book serves up gritty reality and raw honesty, but also the heartfelt hope that the author's brokenness 'can somehow contribute to another person's integration' and 'inspire their clinging while beset by darkness or fog or blizzards'.

'All who read this will feel deeply indebted to Mark, and to God.' Roger Carswell

'Mark invites fellow cave-dwellers and those who love us to walk (or collapse) with him on the road... For the first time in a long while, we rest.' Zack Eswine

'Moving and fascinating.' Sean Fletcher

'Fine writing, personal honesty, intellectual analysis, theological incisiveness and simple open-endedness... A must-buy and a must-read.' Julian Hardyman

'Written straight from the heart of pain - yet brimful of hope and courage.' Rachel Kelly

'We are pointed to a Saviour who brings us purpose, grace and hope.' Emma Scrivener

'Practical wisdom and hope... without being trite.' Derek Tidball

'Profound, unusual and very personal... demonstrates the extraordinary relevance and power of the Bible in helping us to connect our often mysterious and confusing experiences to God's bigger story. Mark's creative appendix of music, books, poetry, websites and blogs, which have helped him survive his "cave", is invaluable.' Richard Winter

Atheism is on the march in the western world, and its enemy is God. Religion, the "New Atheists" claim, "is dangerous", it "kills" or "poisons everything". And if religion is the problem with the world, their answer is simple: get rid of it.

But are things really so straightforward? Tackling the likes of Richard Dawkins, Stephen Hawking, Christopher Hitchens, and Daniel Dennett head on, John Lennox highlights the fallacies in the their approach, arguing that their irrational and unscientific methodology leaves them guilty of the same obstinate foolishness of which they accuse dogmatic religious folks.

Erudite and wide-ranging, Gunning for God packs some debilitating punches. It also puts forward new ideas about the nature of God and Christianity that will give the 'New Atheists' best friends and worst enemies alike some stimulating food for thought.