SPCK Publishing

Join Michael Baughen in this undated 30-day devotional on 2 Timothy as he focuses on Paul's final words.

Paul is in prison, near to death, dictating this letter to Luke for his young friend Timothy. As he sits chained to a Roman soldier, Paul's passion for the gospel shines out. He uses his farewell message to urge Timothy to maintain his focus on the basics of the faith.

This intensely personal letter allows us to hear Paul's last words and ask ourselves about the legacy that we will one day leave to others. We learn day by day how we can benefit from the lessons to Timothy.

What is shame and where does it come from? How can we break free and help others held in its vice-like grip? And what is the gospel when shame is the problem?

Shame, humiliation and stigma are all around us. Online shaming reminds us of the power of shame, the crisis of self-worth, the weight of judgement and the need for freedom. At the same time, people are becoming less responsive to gospel messages about guilt, morality and sin. If we want to reach those around us and bring healing to their hurts, we need to speak their language: the language of shame.

This book helps Christians to introduce 'shame thinking' into their own lives and the lives of those they disciple and evangelize. Above all, it shows how God's freedom can release anyone suffering from the debilitating grip of shame.

Introduction: Reputation ruined - what shame looks like
1 Identity, perception, judgement, and the horizontal nature of shame - case study from Genesis
2 Shame examined - what exactly is shame and how does it relate to guilt? Helpful emotion but also profoundly destructive
3 Who do you think you are? Shame in relation to identity: fig leaves and Instagram
4 Shame and the cross - flipping the script; putting shame to shame. How Jesus dealt with shame
5 'Disposing' of the shameful body - hiding, distancing, laughter, etc. Cultural perceptions
6 A new life. The role of the church - a brand new social community for the shamed
7 Putting our house in order before we help others: practical application
8 Reaching out to the shamed: practical application

Jubilee Manifesto arises out of over two decades of serious reflection, biblical debate and practical concern about how Christians can effect social change in our world today. For those wanting to examine the biblical basis of social reform there is no better place to begin than with Jubilee Manifesto.

Based on the work of the highly influential Cambridge based Jubilee Centre, this book presents a biblically-based alternative to capitalism, socialism and Marxism and seeks to effect change in public policy accordingly. From the outset Jubilee Manifesto identifies relationships as the most precious resource of any society. Ultimately it is the quality of those relationships, in families and communities, in organizations and between institutions, that holds society together.

Through careful study of the biblical material the contributors explore how a relational society might appear with regard to nationhood, government, family, welfare, finance, economics, criminal justice and international relations.

Followed up with practical examples from their own work at the Jubilee Centre, the contributors offer real insights into the challenges and potential for Christian social reform. For any who want to change the society we live in this is a crucial handbook.

Soon after Jesus began his public ministry, he called his first 'disciples'. He would teach and train them and then, after his death and resurrection, commission and empower them to go to the nations to make more 'followers'.

The risen Jesus is still calling and sending people today. If we heed his call, the result can be just as transformative and exciting as it was for the first disciples.

While there are no explicit occurrences of the term 'disciple' outside the Gospels and Acts, with only two further biblical references to 'followers' of Jesus, it is Peter Morden's conviction that we need the entire Bible if we are going to be whole-life disciples. He reflects on Scripture and asks: 'How do we live as committed disciples of Jesus today?' He explores the foundations, resources and practice of discipleship in a range of Old and New Testament texts.

The result is a well-rounded and satisfying picture of Christian discipleship, one that is wonderfully attractive as well as deeply challenging.

With a fully integrated study guide, suitable for both individuals and groups, The Message of Discipleship will help you to see how the Bible's unified teaching on this vital theme can impact your life today.

The Bible Speaks Today series covers every book of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Bible themes that run through the whole of Scripture.

The Disruption of Evangelicalism is the first comprehensive account of the evangelical tradition across the English-speaking world from the end of the nineteenth to the mid-twentieth century.

It offers fresh perspectives on conversionism and the life of faith, biblical and theological perspectives, social engagement, and mission. Tracing these trajectories through a period of great turbulence in world history, we see the deepening of an evangelical diversity. And as events unfold, we notice the spectrum of evangelicalism fragments in varied and often competing strands.

Dividing the era into two phases-before 1914 and after 1918-draws out the impact of the Great War of 1914-18 as evangelicals renegotiated their identity in the modern world. By accenting his account with the careers of selected key figures, Geoffrey Treloar illustrates the very different responses of evangelicals to the demands of a critical and transitional period. The Disruption of Evangelicalism sets out a case that deserves the attention of both professional and arm-chair historians.

A biblical framework for understanding mental illness and helping the mentally ill. Synthesises the relevant biblical material with our scientific understanding of mental illness.

Equips the reader to deal wisely, intelligently and compassionately with issues of mental health in churches and the community. Helps us discern between bad behaviour which is a result of illness and that which results from sin

- How do we deal wisely, intelligently and compassionately with those who suffer from mental illness?

- Can we really make a difference if we aren’t professionals?

- Is it possible to discern between bad behaviour due to illness and that caused by sin

Discover how your church can become a safe, encouraging and healing place.

'The next-best thing to spending a week shadowing Professor Thomas.' Sinclair Ferguson

'Rational, readable and relevant, this book confirms that all involved in pastoral work can help tackle mental illness.' Andrew Fergusson

'The go-to resource for those who want to know more: the wisdom of reliable clinical experience laced with academic rigour and good common sense, all grounded in God’s word. I recommend it highly.' Glynn Harrison

'Empowers us all to play our part.' Debbie Hawker

'An accessible, practical, sensible and biblically grounded resource to help us navigate this challenging terrain.' Sharon James

'Presented in a way that will instil confidence that we can work with mental health professionals.' Nick Pollard

'Alan Thomas has shared his own important insights in what will become a standard book on the subject, accessible and wise.' Geoff Thomas

Most youth ministry is simply too small. Or too time- or fad- bound. Or based on a model of some sort but without solid biblical foundations.

The author is passionate about growing youth ministry that can outlive the youth worker. He deplores particularly the call for 'something' for youth. Something just won't do.

Tim Gough seeks to redress the balance. He takes us on an expositional journey through the Bible as he sees it relating to youth work, pulling out purposeful themes through key stories and passages. He offers guidelines which can be used by any leader as he casts this strong, healthy biblical vision to inspire us. Here is youth leadership training for the long haul.

'May this book contribute to the revival of biblical youth ministry.' Ajith Fernando

'Essential reading for every Christian youth worker.' Andy du Feu

'Combines a vast knowledge of the Bible and youth ministry with an easy-to-read and witty style.' Ruth Jackson

'An important read and worth reading for the sake of our young people.' Phil Moon

Who is Jesus? Is he the blonde-haired, blue-eyed saviour of bad religious art? Or is he just another 'good thing', alongside Buddha and crystals? Or is he a fiction - the product of a bunch of first-century deluded fanatics?

Bill Donahue has met the real-life dynamic Jesus who even in the twenty-first century can captivate us and transform our lives. And we can encounter him too. In forty short sections, ideal for daily reading, Donahue introduces us to Jesus as provocative teacher, sacred friend, truthful revealer, extreme forgiver, authentic leader, compassionate healer, relentless lover and supreme conqueror.

With guidelines for Bible reading and prayer you will find that you too experience the living, breathing, Son of God.

This devotional book traces the course of David's life through his autobiographical Psalms: From triumphant boy hero to persecution in the court of Saul.

From gifted musician to compromised adulterer and murderer. From his exile on the run to his coronation as the leader of God's people.

The King's songs are a treasure-chest of jewels, telling not mere history but timeless truths about the King of Kings himself, David's magnificent God. With warmth and insight, the author draws out the lessons David learned in his turbulent life with the Lord and the rich gems he has bequeathed to followers of God today.

Why do bad things happen in our world? Why does God allow suffering? If he exists, why doesn't he do something?

Of all the hurdles to faith, suffering must be the greatest. But how do we answer the question of 'Why?' in a credible, satisfying way?

In this revised and updated edition of an award-winning book that has helped thousands in their journey of faith, scientist Sharon Dirckx explores some of the most agonizing and bewildering questions we all ask. With compassionate warmth and insight, she offers advice to help us cope with suffering and difficulties. Alongside, she interweaves her own experiences and the personal stories of individuals who have faced some of life's toughest challenges, showing us that it is possible to believe in a powerful loving God and acknowledge the reality of evil and suffering.

Why? is a book for anyone who has questioned how suffering and a compassionate God can coexist. It will help you better understand the nature of God in Christianity, and will equip you to answer the question of 'Why?' with confidence and clarity. It is also an ideal apologetics book to give to friends and family just beginning on their faith journey or who are struggling and looking for answers.

If you have ever asked or wondered why God allows suffering, Sharon Dirckx's gentle wisdom in Why? will help you see life from a new perspective - one that makes more, not less, sense of our hurting world.

How can you be an effective leader-maker/leader-making church? There s a critical need right now for new leaders in churches - this should never be the preserve of the elite few.

This book will help you identify, encourage and keep new leaders, planning for maximum effectiveness in the long-term future.

Extract from Chapter 1

1. GOD LOVES YOUR CHURCH

Main principle: God wants to build up your local church, and he provides gifts of spiritual leadership to help the flock grow.

Communities of Christians come in many shapes, sizes and flavours. God is using large and small churches, multicultural and mono-cultural churches, churches with lively worship styles that appeal to the young, and churches that prefer solid older hymns, to witness to neighbourhoods and to the world. Bible-believing churches may exhibit many surface differences, but one thing is true of them all: God loves local churches. He wants to see them built up and flourishing.

Local churches are God's idea, not human institutions. The Bible describes them as the household of God. It says that God lives in the middle of these communities of disciples, through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:22). Jesus revealed just how important churches are to God. He promised God's spiritual provision and protection as we participate in God s plans and purposes when he said, I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it (Matthew 16:18).

Jesus is committed to building his church around the world. And in case you are still in any doubt about how valuable churches are to God, he says in Ephesians 1 that he has made Jesus head over everything in the whole universe for the church. Just imagine that - Jesus is exerting his ruling power in heaven for the good of your church here on earth. Maybe you are part of a church where this reality feels a long way from your current experience, but that doesn't mean it isn't true. God wants your church to thrive. That might not mean spectacular growth in numbers, but it will mean all the believers knowing and enjoying God and falling deeper and deeper in love with Jesus Christ.

First published in 1953 and revised in 1961, Merrill Tenney's comprehensive survey has served to introduce the general reader, student, and teacher to the world and message of the New Testament.

Written in a clear, nontechnical style, New Testament Survey begins with a survey of the social, political, economic, and religious background of the New Testament, and then goes on to examine the various groups of New Testament books, which are considered in their historical settings. The book concludes with a penetrating study of the New Testament canon.

Undertaken at the request of Dr. Tenney, and prepared with his full approval, this 1985 revision by Walter M. Dunnett includes an entirely new chapter on the Jewish background of the New Testament, plus several new short sections, including materials on the Gospels and the canon of the New Testament. The bibliography has been enlarged and updated, and many of the book's numerous illustrations, maps, and charts are new. Great care has been exercised to retain the spirit and quality of the original work, ensuring that the book will remain a standard in the years to come.

'Jonathan Lamb has done an excellent job... The message that God is in control and is enough, even in the most difficult circumstances, rings out loud and clear.' Clare Heath-Whyte, author of First Wives' Club and Old Wives' Tales

Who is in control? The sustained threat from rogue states, international terrorism, religious extremists, and moral confusion arising from liberal views of all kinds begs the question: what is happening to our world?

Is no-one in control? This is a deep vulnerability that many people express. And not simply in global events. Our own personal world often seems out of control as we reel from suffering, family tragedies and unanswered prayers.

The prophet Habakkuk knew that God was in control but, like us, his personal experience seemed to contradict this and he wrestled with the tension.

This book is a dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk confronts God with his confusion and, in doing so, he expresses the voice of the godly in Judah and he speaks for us. We join in the journey from 'why?' to worship.

... in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose' (Romans 8:28)

The Puritans used to say that 'providence is the last refuge of the saints'. Melvin Tinker's personal experience and work as a pastor have led him to believe that the doctrine of God's providence should be amongst the first refuges for the Christian seeking strength and comfort.

From the early church right through into the nineteenth century, belief in providence was part of the staple diet of professing Christians. For various reasons, the doctrine was eclipsed in the twentieth century, and still lies on the edges of much Christian thought and practice today. However, rightly understood, the providence of God shines as a glorious jewel in the crown of the Christian faith.

Melvin Tinker's exploration and exposition of some of the wonderful facets of that jewel is both pastoral and practical.

'There have been times of personal difficulty when the Psalms alone have been my source of hope, as they directed me to God and his rebuke and discipline but also to his unfailing love and forgiveness.'

The Psalms have an extraordinary ability to enable people to give voice to joy, praise and thanksgiving and an equal ability to turn their fears, frustrations and failures into heartfelt prayer to God. The whole of life is to be found in them, the complete range of emotions and the raw reality of our precarious existence.

Signposts provides a map to help readers chart their way through the Psalms, watch out for points of interest, and make connections between one place and another. This devotional book will repay careful reading with a Bible open alongside it.

- A psalm per page makes for ideal daily reading or preacher's notes.
- Short articles explore significant themes from the Psalms.
- Signposts helpfully provoke reflection, action or response.

Convinced that real satisfaction can be found only in a relationship with Jesus Christ, the author aims to encourage, inspire and equip all who struggle with same-sex temptations to resist, but 'make him their greatest treasure and live life to the full'.

He invites us to dig deep and discover great truths about our awesome God and his plans and purposes for our lives, for only then can we live bravely, boldly and counter-culturally.

He writes candidly, humbly and sensitively, with fellow strugglers in mind, but also their friends, families and the church leaders who support them, interweaving deeply personal stories from real life. God is good. He can be trusted even in the most painful situation. The surprising paradox is that it is the narrow road that leads to the abundant life promised by Jesus.

'The earth is the Lord's' (Ps.24:1). God states that He is the rightful owner of the earth and everything in it. God wants people to enjoy material things - but God must be the centre of our lives.

Christ's radical call to his followers includes the call to let him drive our economic and business life. This means letting God's justice rule all our economic relationships: treating people rightly; a constant seeking of justice for, especially, the poor and needy; working so that all participate in God's blessings, including material blessings.

In Part 1, Andrew Hartropp looks at how Christ's followers are to do justice in our economic relationships: as individuals, as households, in the workplace and as church communities.

Then, moving outward (in concentric circles), Part 2 shows how Jesus's disciples can do justice in and through secular institutions, including companies and firms, banks and other financial institutions, then government institutions, and then in the international/global context.

The epilogue is on the glorious vision of God's everlasting kingdom, which both drives us and also keeps our efforts now in proper perspective.

You are too exhausted to think, never mind pray, your home is a mess and you can't find your Bible ...

'Soul Food' will nourish you through your baby's first year, offering inspirational and practical ideas for applying God's word and incorporating prayer into your daily life. It won't make you feel guilty about the time or energy you simply don't have.

With honesty and humour, the authors draw upon their own, and others', experiences of motherhood. The result is both delightful and unusual.

Succinct, accessible, weekly biblical reflections. A lifeline for every mother with a new baby.

The Story of the Church gives an accessible and concise survey of the history of the Christian church, from the first century to the twenty-first. Here is an epic tale of high hopes and great disappointments, of bitter persecution and heroic loyalty.

The Story of the Church is an established classic, widely appreciated by several generations of readers. It addresses the central question of why Christianity has spread around the world so successfully, and offers a distinctly evangelical perspective. Its clear structure pinpoints significant people, places, movements and events.

This new edition has been completely revised and updated by Allan Harman.

'Written by an expert, it is historically situated, technologically informed, well-modulated in tone, coherent in argument, theological in orientation, and judicious in illustrations. More than a book of conclusions, its design and structure model the best in the art of robust critique while offering possible ways to consider the appropriate deployment of Artificial Intelligence.' - Bruce A. Little, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, USA.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) pervades much of our lives. We use facial recognition to open our phones, and the state uses it to track us - so what's the problem? Decisions are made using machine learning on our private and personal data, from shopping habits to medical history - have we lost control? We order our digital world in conversation with chatbots - how convenient, but is it changing our relationships with people? The prospect of a self-driving vehicle lies just around the corner - should we care that it might run over a child to save the passenger's life?

Jeremy Peckham shows us how we have become seduced by progress, embracing AI applications for their convenience, yet unwittingly diminishing our ability to be God's image-bearers and losing moral responsibility. Rooted in the biblical truth that humanity is created in God's image, Masters or Slaves? explores six ways in which AI has an impact today. We are challenged where, and how, to set boundaries, both privately and as a society, in order not to fall into addiction, slavery and idolatry.

Another lurid newspaper headline: a high-profile figure has fallen from grace. Worse still, he tried to cover it up so that everyone would think he was something he wasn't ... She was a respected figure in her school but it turned out she had been funding her lavish lifestyle with money that didn't belong to her.

Integrity matters. We expect it, naively perhaps, of leaders in all walks of life. We trust people whose words, character and actions are consistent. But why is integrity so rare? Why does our walk not match our talk?

One of the most pertinent and positive examples of integrity in Scripture is that of the apostle Paul. In 2 Corinthians his passions and frustrations are clear as he offers us an extraordinary insight into the joys and pressures of Christian leadership. His model is no less counter-cultural today than it was in the first century: leading with God watching. There are lessons for all Christians here, not just for formally recognized leaders.

Jonathan Lamb examines key passages and interweaves them with examples from everyday life. Whether in responding to criticism, exercising authority, coping with failure, handling money or struggling with personal weakness, this book is a call to live consistently in the light of gospel priorities. Only then will our lives speak authentically to a sceptical world.