Health, Wealth & Happiness

The desire for a thriving, healthy, and productive life is as strong as ever, especially in tough economic times. As people become more disillusioned at the state of the economy, they also become more susceptible to the lure of the prosperity gospel and its teachings of health, wealth, and happiness for the faithful. But what happens when the promise of prosperity overshadows the promise of the real gospel--the gospel of Christ?

Believing that the prosperity gospel is constructed upon faulty theology, authors David W. Jones and Russell S. Woodbridge take a closer look at five crucial areas of error relating to the prosperity gospel. In a fair but firm tone, the authors discuss the history and theology of the prosperity gospel movement to reveal its fraudulent core biblical teachings that have been historically and popularly misinterpreted, even by some of today's most well-known pastors. After an introduction and assessment of the movement, readers are invited to take a look at Scripture to understand what the Bible really says about wealth, poverty, suffering, and giving.

Theologically sound but acessible to all readers, Health, Wealth & Happiness: Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed teh Gospel of Christ is sure to become a trusted resource for laypersons, pastors, and Christian leaders.

David W. Jones (Ph.D, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is associate professor of Christian ethics at Sputheastern Baptist Theological Seminary.  He is the author of more than a dozen articles and books that cover a wide range of moral issues.  His Ph.D is in the field of financial ethics.

Russell S. Woodbridge (Ph.D, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an asistant professor of theology and church history currently engaged in missions work in Eastren europe.  He is a former vice-president for Equity Derivatives trading for Salomon Brothers AG in Frankfurt, Germany.

 

This book can be purchased at Christianbook.com - click here

Publisher: Kregel Publications
Publication Date: 2011
ISBN: 0825429307
ISBN-13: 9780825429309

Psycho Heresy - Revised & Expanded

Amazon

Almost everywhere one turns in the church one sees psychology. The psychologizing of Christianity has reached epidemic proportions. We see it everywhere in the church, from psychologized sermons to psychologized persons. However, the psychologizing of the church is neither biblically nor scientifically justifiable. Beneath all the biblical reasons why Christians should not pursue psychotherapy and its underlying psychologies is this one fact.

The use of psychotherapy and its underlying psychologies denies the sufficiency of Scripture for the issues of life normally taken to a psychotherapist. This book demonstrates the fact that psychological explanations about life and psychological solutions to life's problems are questionable at best, detrimental at worst, and spiritual counterfeits at least.

About the Author

Martin Bobgan holds four university degrees, including a doctorate in educational psychology from the University of Colorado and heads PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries. Deidre Bobgan holds an M.A. degree in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. They have coauthored hundreds of articles and twenty books.

 

 

This book can be ordered from Amazon (See Link:

http://www.amazon.com/PsychoHeresy-Martin-Bobgan/dp/0941717232/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1372836719&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=Psycho+Heresy

 

 

Posted by: Sherry DuBois

The Suicide of American Christianity

 

American Christianity is dying a slow death at its own hands. Instead of positively affecting the secular culture, we are being infected by it under the guise of being "seeker-friendly" and "loving." Soon, the church may be an exact mirror of the culture that seeks to destroy us.

With a lack of strong, principled leaders, and with followers who want their ears tickled instead of being challenged to pursue righteousness, American Christianity is writing its own epitaph as it slowly dies. Unless we reverse course by embracing the complete, absolute truth of God's Word and stop trying to redefine God in our selfish human image, only a remnant will remain from a once-powerful church.

Do we have the courage to challenge our leaders and ourselves to reject secular culture and its influences? Or will we continue to die a slow death at our own hands as we continue to inhale the cancer of secular humanism? Time is running out.

Publisher: WestBow Press
Publication Date: 2012
ISBN: 1449750249
ISBN-13: 9781449750244

This Book can be purchased at Christianbook.com ( See Link:
http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=750244&event=AAI
 

Twelve Unlikely Heroes

Christianbooks.com/

Product Description:

At first glance it may seem easy to put Bible heroes on a pedestal, and to think, They were specially chosen by God and had unique gifts and abilities. How could I possibly be like them? However, the reality is that the Bible figures we admire were human, with strengths and weaknesses just like us.


In Twelve Unlikely Heroes, best-selling author and teacher from Grace to You ministries, John MacArthur takes a closer look at several of these saints to show how God's glory shines all the clearer through their imperfect stories. You'll get to know the lives and times of Joseph, Jonathan, Esther, James and many others. In doing so, it will become clear how their stories apply to our lives today, and reveal the true Hero behind every witness.

Publisher: Thomas Nelson
ISBN: 1400202086
ISBN-13: 9781400202089

A Christian Worldview

Anthony Selvaggio has written an interesting book on the modern-day effects of worldliness on the Christian. He does not just address outward behavior but speaks to the internal working worldliness has upon the heart. This I found unique. The short description in the foreword of the book I think sums it up best when he says: “While external behavior practices do matter, the real battle to avoid worldliness occurs internally, in our hearts and minds. While we have been consumed with external matters, worldliness has gained a foothold in our thought processes. Satan has been very successful in getting us to think like the world. This book is an effort to counter Satan’s attack on our minds. It’s a counterinsurgency aimed at thwarting the evil intentions of our adversary.”

The book outlines 7 toxic ideas and then addresses these concerns with scripture. The chapters I found most helpful and interesting were those that dealt with Consumerism and new Technology and it’s effect on our culture, the Christian and the church. Those who would most benefit from this book would be those 35 and under. He does a thorough examination of the 7 ideas he presents and how these ideas are opposite to a Christian worldview and explains why these toxic ideas are non-christian. A good short read.

Anthony T Selvaggio currently serves as a visiting professor of Biblical Studies at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA and is also Theologian in Residence at the Rochester Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rochester NY.

Publisher: P & R Publishing
Publication Date: 2011
ISBN: 1596381965
ISBN-13: 9781596381964

I received my copy from PFO Ministries. To order visit their website.
P.O. Box 26062 • Saint Louis, MO 63136-0062

Another Book Review of this book can be seen at : Ligonier Ministrieshttp://www.ligonier.org/blog/7-toxic-ideas-polluting-your-mind/

New Evangelicalism

New Evangelicalism and the Purpose Driven 

and Emergent Movement

In this book you will discover and learn that there has been an intentional departure from believing the Bible is Inerrant and trustworthy, and has plunged the church of the 21st century down the treacherous slippery slope of accommodation and compromise. Paul Smith carefully documents the sobering truth in this book.

Some of the questions that will be answered are:
Are there clear historical markers that identify this paradigm shift?

Why have so many evangelicals identified themselves as “new evangelicals”?

What is the relationship between Fuller Seminary, the Purpose Driven Church, and the Emergent Church Movement?

How is the Emergent Church push for globalization harmonizing with the new world order in these prophetic last days?

Paul Smith answers these questions with case studies and documentation of the events that lead up to where we are now. The author shows the progression of ideas that were birthed in aberrant church beliefs and it’s historical origin. Smith writes that New evangelicals learned about the word “dialectic” from Karl Barth and neo-orthodoxy, and is today used by Emergent churchmen. This decline was only possible when the inerrancy of the Bible, it’s absolute truth was no longer believed by church and influential seminary leaders.

 

 

We must not forget that the church rests on the twin sufficiency of : the inerrant word of God - the Bible and the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit. We must stand firm always on these truths. Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Proverbs 30:5 and 2 Timothy 3:16,17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Publisher: Calvary Publishing
ISBN-10: 1597519774
ISBN-13: 978-1597519779

You can also order this book from: Olive Tree Ministries: www.olivetreeviews.org

See a review by Gary Gilley:  http://www.svchapel.org/resources/book-reviews/6-church-history/727-new-evangelicalism-by-paul-smith-costa-mesa-calvary-publishing-2011-215-pp-paper-1200

Twilight's Last Gleaming

Economic chaos, immorality, cultural decay, terrorism and global upheaval have convinced many that we are living in the twilight days of America. Dr. Robert Jeffress agrees, but he is quick to add a note of hope and challenge to be salt and light as God‘s children in this world. Twilight’s Last Gleaming makes the case that although we cannot prevent America’s eventual demise, we can delay it…and make a difference for eternity at the same time.

“So that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as light in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.” Phil 2:15,16

　

Publisher: Worthy Publishing
ISBN: 1936034581
ISBN-13: 9781936034581

Church History Essentials

Stephen J. Nichols is more than a storyteller. He is truly a teacher, presenting a winning apologia for the necessity of church history and the importance of the Reformation for today. The Reformation deals with difficult questions of unity, ecumenism, and pluralism, and---despite its playful tone---it considers these issues in the spirit of the Reformation. Accordingly, The Reformation also contains an appendix of source documents, including excerpts from the Ninety-Five Theses and significant confessions and catechisms.

　

"Professor Stephen Nichols is already well-known for his remarkable ability to make history live and sing. This new work is no exception and will simply enhance his well-deserved reputation. It is a scintillating helicopter tour of the amazing men---and wonderful women---of the Reformation. Here conviction joins with courage, holiness with humor, in a wonderful medley of Christian heroes and heroines. You will find reading this book a pleasure and a challenge-from beginning to end. But take note of this church history health warning---these pages may prove addictive!"

--Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson, First Presbyterian Church of Columbia (SC)  Stephen J. Nichols is a professor at Lancaster Bible College and Graduate School. He earned a Ph.D. from Westminster Theological Seminary. He has written six books, most recently

Publisher: Crossway Books & Bibles
ISBN: 1581348290
ISBN-13: 9781581348293

Tim Challies review:
I love church history. I consider it absolutely tragic that so few contemporary Christians have any real sense of their heritage. They know a little bit of New Testament history, can list hundreds of today's best and worst teachers, but know almost nothing of the 2000 years between.

The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World is one of a long line of books authored by Stephen Nichols, professor at Lancaster Bible College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Nichols is a prolific author who seems to be releasing books with impressive regularity. To this point all of his books have centered on church history. He has written several works on Jonathan Edwards, one each on Martin Luther and Gresham Machen, and one providing a guided tour of classic Christian writing. This new title "goes behind the scenes and uncovers the human side of the larger-than-life Reformers through user-friendly narrative stories on the Reformation."
Read more:
http://www.amazon.com/review/R3UU7JD7UGRUUG/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=1581348290&nodeID=283155&store=books

A True Story

Out of INDIA

One of the best books we have read this year. Author and Film-maker Caryl Matrisciana documents her life story as a young child through her adult years and how she had gotten involved with Hinduism’s teachings due to it’s spread through pop-culture in London and it’s westernized teachings and new age practices. As she reaches out to find the truth, God intercedes to bring that truth through a Christian witness and His Word. Her testimony for Christ and God’s word is much needed in today’s Church, where oftentimes discernment and knowledge in world religions and it’s beliefs and practices is lacking and gives an Apologetic responds where it is needed. This book is excellent. This is a book that every Christian should read. Recommended reading.

Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ,

or there; believe it not. For there shall arise false Christ,

and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders;

Insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the

Very elect. (Matthew 24:23-24)

 

From the cover: Born and raised in India, Caryl was surrounded by Hinduism - an all encompassing religion that embraces Yoga, Eastern Mysticism, reincarnation and at it’s heart, the belief that all is divine.

After leaving India for the West, Caryl, as a young adult becomes involved in the 1960’s hippie movement and unwittingly embraces Hinduism, which was in the process of being repackaged as The New-Age.

Raised a devout Roman Catholic, Caryl realized that Catholicism, Hinduism and the New Age Movement were all comprised of similar beliefs which had managed to gain inroads into various Protestant denominations. By the mid 1990’s, this New Age spirituality was calling itself the Emerging Church and being welcomed into the Evangelical Church. Today, the New Spirituality, with its foundation in Eastern Contemplative Mysticism accepts interspirituality, the idea that all religions are equal paths to God.

 

Out of India traces the roots of New Age emerging spirituality currently infiltrating global business, education, government, medicine, and now even believers--seducing millions of Christians away from the truth of Biblical Christianity.

 About the Author
Film Maker and best-selling author Caryl Matrisciana is a well-known expert on ancient and modern world religions, contemporary cults, the New Age, and the occult. Caryl has co-produced or contributed research and expertise to more than 55 documentaries in the past 30 years. For the past 23 years Caryl was the Creative and Marketing Director for Jeremiah Films, a Southern California film company, a leader in documentary film production and video distribution. She was instrumental in the research and production of many of the films covering a myriad subjects and also narrated many of them.

To order online visit the website:

http://www.caryltvshop.com/Out-Of-India-A-True-Story-about-the-New-Age-Movement-BOOK-by-Caryl-Matrisciana.html

Caryl Productions Publisher
ISBN-978-0-615-39955-3
Biography / New Age Movement

Has America become Hindu? Discover how deep Hinduism has influenced the post-modern world with guest Caryl Matrisciana on the show Christ in Prophecy.

 

YOGA and the Church

YOGA UNCOILED: From East to West

For Order Information click
on Image

From the cover: Many believe they can practice yoga postures, breathing, and focusing techniques devoid of yoga’s spirituality, not realizing that yoga is an inherent part of Hindu philosophy which teaches man and nature are one with divinity.

Today, yoga is experiencing a worldwide renaissance and in America has more than 70,000 yoga teachers working in 20,000 locations. Although viewed primarily as fitness instructors, these trainers are in reality the leading missionaries of eastern religion in the west. The twenty-seven billion dollar a year yoga industry is marketed to students, athletes, businessmen, pregnant women and senior citzens promising solutions for stress reduction, concentration problems, and issues of self confidence.

Once viewed by Christians as a pagan import from the East, yoga has now become mainstream in the church through “Christ-centered yoga classes” designed to help improve spirituality and experience “the presence of God”. But is yoga’s mysticism compatible with historic Christianity?

 

Video-journalist Caryl Matrisciana, who was born and raised in India, returns to her native land to search for truth among India’s leading experts and examines what Christian Yoga practitioners in the West are saying about their Yoga participation.

 

With critical discernment, this hard-hitting and informative DVD explores the ramifications of dismissing yoga’s core spirituality, and blending Biblical terminology and precepts with eastern meditative techniques and practices.  To order this DVD please visit the website below:

 

 

Caryl Matrisciana‘s Website: - http://www.caryltvshop.com/

To order this DVD online visit the website: http://www.caryltvshop.com/Yoga-Uncoiled-From-East-To-West-DVD.html


About the Author

Film Maker and best-selling author Caryl Matrisciana is a well-known expert on ancient and modern world religions, contemporary cults, the New Age, and the occult. Caryl has co-produced or contributed research and expertise to more than 55 documentaries in the past 30 years. For the past 23 years Caryl was the Creative and Marketing Director for Jeremiah Films, a Southern California film company, a leader in documentary film production and video distribution. She was instrumental in the research and production of many of the films covering a myriad subjects and also narrated many of them.

Can Yoga ever be Christian? 

SEE VIDEO :  http://youtu.be/8_yfxZmRokg

Care of Souls

From the cover: This book gives reasons why Christians should be opposed to counseling, literally Stop Counseling! and Start Ministering! Reasons are revealed why counseling, because it is problem-centered, inevitably involves sinful conversations.

 

Central to ministering is helping individuals in need to overcome their fixation on their problems and encouraging them to become Christ-centered on a daily basis.

 

The book provides ways of equipping those in need with the truths of Scripture and encouraging them to live the daily life that will be honoring to the Lord and beneficial for meeting life’s problems without sinfully talking about them.

“Instead of following the ways of the world, Christians need to search the Word to find out how God changes individuals from the inside out without one human being probing into another person’s inner man, which only God can know. God does the primary work of change and has clearly set forth what believers are to do for one another: preach, pray, admonish, instruct, help, and encourage one another to seek the Lord daily through praying; worshiping; giving thanks; reading, studying, memorizing, and mediating on Scriptures; thinking biblically; walking by faith; loving, serving, and obeying God; and loving and serving one another.

This care of souls is to be practiced mutually in the body of Christ so that all may grow and flourish in the “faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). There is no system or program. Instead, it is the very life of Christ in every believer bearing fruit and bringing each to maturity through the Word of God, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the fellowship of the saints.”

 

EastGate Publishers 2011
ISBN-10: 0941717224
ISBN-13: 978-0941717229

This book can be ordered from: PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries
Ministry Website: www.psychoheresy-aware.org 

Critical Questions/Critical Answers

Psychology in the Church

 

SEE VIDEO - http://youtu.be/B0lGqmQiPac

 

 

Master and Savior

Did you know that every time you utter the word "Lord," you make a subtle yet profound declaration that God is your Master and you belong to him?


Best-selling author MacArthur explores what it means to follow Christ without hesitation---and why we as believers should consider ourselves slaves who were bought at a price.

Website: www.gty.org


Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: 2010
ISBN: 1400202078

See Video: http://youtu.be/nx3ColYGNMM

 

 

Beyond Strange Theories and Bad History

What Have They Done with JESUS?

From inside cover: “Strange theories about Jesus seem to ooze from our culture with increasing regularity. Ben Witherington, one of the top Jesus scholars, will have none of it. There were no secret Gnostic teachings in the first century. With leading scholars and popular purveyors of bad history in his crosshairs, Witherington reveals what we can—and cannot—claim to know about the real Jesus. The Bible, not outside sources, is still the most trustworthy historical record we have today.

 

 

Utilizing a fresh "personality profile" approach, Witherington highlights core Christian claims by investigating the major figures in Jesus’s inner circle of followers: Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Thomas, Peter, James the brother of Jesus, Paul, and the mysterious "beloved disciple."

In each chapter Witherington satisfies our curiosities and answers the full range of questions about these key figures and what each of them can teach us about the historical Jesus. What Have They Done with Jesus? is a vigorous defense of traditional Christianity that offers a compelling portrait of Jesus’s core message according to those who knew him best.

Publisher: Harper
ISBN: 0061120014
ISBN-13: 9780061120015

 
　
Product Description
Of late, Jesus has been in the media and news outlets repeatedly. But who is this Jesus everyone is buzzing about? Sensational claims about Jesus have been made, yet there is little or no hard evidence to support such outrageous claims. Pop-culture has tried to reinvent Jesus.

Biblical scholar Ben Witherington masterfully refutes the recent claims and implications of Bart Ehrman, the Gospel of Judas, "lost Christianities", and secret first-century "Gnostic" teachings. Dr. Witherington focuses on the impact of Jesus upon his earliest followers, the so-called inner circle from a historical point of view: Mary, James, Jude, Peter, the Beloved Disciple, Mary Magdalene, Junia (Joanna)and Paul, those who knew him, (or in Paul's case knew other eyewitnesses) and his character best to reveal the truth and reliability of the biblical accounts.


 

Ben Witherington 111 is professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary. The author of more than thirty books, including The Brother of Jesus, he has twice won the Christianity Today award for one of the best biblical studies books of the year, and he has presented seminars for churches, colleges, and biblical meetings not only in the United States but also in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Witherington writes for many church and scholarly publications, is a regular contributor to Christianity Today and Beliefnet.com , and has been featured widely in the national media.

www.BenWitherington.com

Desire and Deceit

This book offers Christians a wide-angle view of the dramatic - and disastrous - shift that has taken place in our culture's thinking concerning sexual issues.

Considering many of the most alarming contributors to the disintegration of the human family - from the mainstreaming of homosexuality to the revolution of sexual ethics - Dr. Albert Mohler will help you learn to how to apply biblical truths to the pressing issues of our day. The book is divided into many brief hard-hitting chapters, so you can open this book to any page to be informed on timely topics in just one sitting.

R. Albert Mohler Jr. is the president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is recognized by such publications as Time and Christianity Today as one of the country’s most influential leaders. See Albert Mohler’s website at http://www.albertmohler.com/

　
Multnomah Publishers, Inc.
Date: 2008
ISBN: 1601420803
ISBN-13: 9781601420800

Amish Grace



Christianbook.com



Based on a true story! Travel to Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania, where a man murders five Amish girls in a senseless schoolhouse shooting before taking his own life.

Through the eyes of a grieving mother, the film explores the Amish community's reaction---particularly how they extend unconditional forgiveness and support to the gunman's widow. Stars Kimberly Williams-Paisley. Dove Approved. Approx. 89 minutes.

DVD
20th Century Fox
UPC: 024543700838


Christianbook.com

Psychology and the Church



For nearly two thousand years prior to the rise of modern psychiatry and psychotherapy, the church has ministered to believers experiencing mental, emotional, and behavioral problems by using the teachings of the Scriptures and in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Contemporary Christianity’s embrace of psychology raises an important question: Was there an insufficiency on the part of God’s Word and His Holy Spirit during those two millennia that made it necessary for the church to turn to modern psychotherapy in order to more effectively address a Christian’s problems of living?

Crucial answers to that question will be the focus of this program, as we consider the influence of psychological counseling upon the church. In the history of contemporary Christendom, no secular enterprise has had such a profound influence on Christianity as has psychological counseling. The critical questions raised by these developments is: Have they been helpful or harmful to the body of Christ? T.A. McMahon, co-author of The Seduction of Christianity, is your host for this ground-breaking documentary. Featuring perspectives and insights of both Christian and secular experts including Martin and Deidre Bobgan, Tana Dineen and Dave Hunt, this powerful presentation exposes the roots—and results—of Christianity’s embrace of the beliefs of Freud, Jung, Rogers, Maslow and others.

 

PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries
Ministry Website: www.psychoheresy-aware.org
 

The Armor of God



Put on the full Armor of God and defend yourself against the attacks of the enemy! This full color pamphlet leads you through Ephesians 6:10-18, giving the historical context and spiritual application for each piece of armor. Perfect for Bible Study or Sunday school class. Double sided pamphlet from Rose Publishing.

Publisher Rose Publishing
Publication Date: 2005
ISBN: 1596360291
ISBN-13: 9781596360297

Soul-Nourishing Preaching Should be the Goal

Why Johnny Can't Preach 

 This author has done an excellent work in this book. The main premise is how has the movement away from language-based media to image-based media and electronic media altered our sensibilities and how has this shaped the preaching and preachers of today‘s churches. 

The concern is that the Insignificant has become significant because of our media-driven culture and this is dictating the quality and content of the preacher’s message. Too often the Bible is read or studied for “Information”, and not for it’s instruction and training in righteousness.   2 Tim. 3:16,17

This book gives several examples of modern preaching styles and gives instruction on where improvement is needed to fully and precisely convey the redemptive gospel of Christ. T. David Gordon states: “Christological preaching feeds the soul and builds faith.”

The author gives a helpful list 4 common alternatives that are utilized in today’s preaching: Moralism, How-to, Introspection, and Social Gospel/Culture War and explains each and it‘s affect on it‘s hearers. (page 79) He explains how these methods miss the mark and shows the comparison to preaching that is Christological. T. David Gordon’s book is beautifully written and there is much to gleam from the richness of his knowledge in ministry. Excellent. Recommended Reading

Copyright 2009

Publisher P & R Publishing
ISBN 1596381167

Read/Reviewed: February 9, 2011

A Reality Check on God's Will

Just Do Something

God’s will for each of us is firmly established in the pages of the Bible yet many Christians say they are looking for it. Some are saying you must have visions, put out a fleece, or have an extraordinary spiritual experience to know God’s will for your life, yet the author of this book writes with clarity, discernment and wisdom and directs the reader to the scriptures and reminds the reader of what it says is necessary to please God, how to make good decisions and have a blessed life.  We must stand firm on God’s word when determining our direction and purpose in life. The most important decision we will make in this life is to live for Christ and trust Him. This is a good book to give young people in need of guidance.

Copyright 2009

Publisher Moody Publishers
ISBN 9781575673295

Read/Reviewed: February 2011

Thinking Christians Stand Firm in the Faith

Your Mind Matters

This book was refreshing, thoughtful and will stir your passion for God and His word. It will bring clarity and sense in how we are to use our minds as Christians in all phases of our life and witness. John Stott examines 6 areas in which the mind is absolutely necessary in: Christian living, worship, Faith, holiness, Christian guidance and Christian Evangelism.

In speaking of our evangelistic effort, the author addresses the need for the Christian witness that appeals to the whole person; to the heart, mind and will of a person, with the whole gospel; Christ incarnation, crucified, risen, reigning, coming again and more. It is upon these crucial areas, and appealing to the whole person that conviction and true lasting Faith is built. He gives examples from the Bible how this was done by Jesus, the Apostles and disciples.

Publisher's Description :

"Knowledge is indispensable to Christian life and service," writes John Stott. "If we do not use the mind which God has given us, we condemn ourselves to spiritual superficiality." While Christians have had a long heritage of rigorous scholarship and careful thinking, some circles still view the intellect with suspicion or even as contradictory to Christian faith. And many non-Christians are quick to label Christians as anti-intellectual and obscurantist. But this need not be so. In this classic introduction to Christian thinking, John Stott makes a forceful appeal for Christian discipleship that engages the mind as well as the heart.

Copyright © 2007
Publisher Inter-Varsity Press
ISBN 0830834087

Read/Reviewed October 2010

Christ-Centered Ministry

Christ-Centered Ministry  Versus   Problem-Centered Counseling

True knowledge and wisdom comes from God’s word the Bible, and gives us this precious promise in 1 Peter 1:3 “seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” Since God is providing us “with everything pertaining to life and godliness,” then why are so many seduced into embracing the blending of psychology with Christianity?

This book reveals the origins, and the history of the psycho-therapy movement, and it’s impact on the church, and the errors that are found in problem-centered counseling which is regularly used and encouraged in churches today. The Authors explain the difference in Christ-centered Ministry and how it differs with problem-centered counseling. The Biblical counseling movement is a concept of integration of worldly psychological systems and theories which are being used by professing Christians, church counselors, and pastors today and while ignoring what the Bible tells us about such things. The Apostle Paul warned believers in Colossians 2:8 “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”

Much of the counseling/discipleship approach today - is a one up, one down method. Counseling involves 2 or more people conversing about problems with one being the so-called expert (Counselor - one up) who is expected to provide answers and solutions for the one in need (Counselee - one down) through a form of Talk Therapy). The goal becomes solving the problem rather than Spiritual Growth. The person or (counselee) becomes the center of attention and the problem more important than Biblical instruction found from the Scriptures and learning to keeping our focus on Christ.

Christ-centered Ministry relies on the work of the Holy Spirit in a Believers life. The Bible informs us that; problems of living are an opportunity for Spiritual Growth, growing in sanctification by denying Self. It also helps us recognize that God uses our sufferings and temptations to purify and mature us. Believers need to learn to come to Christ in their time of need, because only in Christ will they find His will for their lives and His way in each situation.

The Authors; Martin and Deidre Bobgan state in conclusion of chapter 3: “Every problem or trial is meant to conform us to the Image of Christ.

 

 

The Bobgans purpose in this Book is based on the preaching and teaching of the Word. This means the emphasis is on Christ and His work in the Believer through the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, and the Body of Christ to the glory of God. This book is written to encourage those who love the Lord Jesus Christ and God’s Word to Stand Firm in the Faith and don’t compromise. Paul exhorted that your faith should not stand on the wisdom of men but in the power of God. 1 Cor. 2:4,5

Martin Bobgan holds four college degrees, including a doctorate from the University of Colorado, and is president of PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries. Deidre Bobgan holds an M.A. in English from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. They have coauthored numerous books and articles.

 

 

Copyright © 2004 Martin and Deidre Bobgan

Publisher EastGate Publishers

ISBN 0-941717-19-4

Read/Reviewed March 2006/2011

A Biblical look at Oprah's New Age Spirituality

Oprah, Miracles, and the New Earth

This was an excellent book! Erwin Lutzer gets right to the point and wastes no time in contrasting Biblical Christian beliefs and what Oprah and Friends, such as Eckhart Tolle (A New Earth), Ronda Byre’s (The Secret), and Marianne Williamson’s (A return to love) promote which is really New Age Spirituality and it is clearly not Christianity or representative of Christian teaching at all. This book makes this very clear.

When these spiritual teacher’s use familiar biblical words, some people may assume the meanings are the same as Christian teaching, but Lutzer warns; “Don’t be fooled because of the uses of words such as Jesus, love, peace, reconciliation and atonement. These biblical words and others like them are given radically new different definitions.” Pastor Lutzer’s apologetic is absolutely outstanding in this book. He points out there are BIG differences, and sadly many sincere people are being deceived into believing a counterfeit gospel. There are very real spiritual dangers in practicing what is promoted by these new age authors, and that is what this book best defines. Recommended reading

 

Erwin Lutzer has been Senior Pastor of Moody Church in Chicago for over 30 years and has written numerous books. He is also a featured speaker on Moody Network daily radio broadcast “Running to Win.” Running to win radio - http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/running-to-win/ and is the author of many Christian books.

Copyright © 2009
Publisher Moody Publishers
ISBN: 0802489532

Read/Review date: September 2010

The Gospel According To Oprah by Erwin Lutzer

SEE VIDEO HERE: http://youtu.be/CTanGkdXhYo

Good research and well defined

How Evil Works: Understanding and Overcoming the Destructive Forces That Are Transforming America

The Author David Kupelian is a Journalist that writes with a Christian perspective. The book is brilliantly written. It includes helpful statistical data and he has used headline news stories pertaining to evil. A core element of evil is pride.

Kupalian takes the most prominent talked about issues of our day and applies biblical wisdom in recognizing the affects that evil has had on personal relationships and on the world. He is an exceptional writer and enjoyed his previous book; “The Marketing of Evil”. This book was beneficial reading.

Copyright © 2010
Publisher Threshold Editions
ISBN 978-1-4391-6819-6

Read/Reviewed date: Oct 2010

A Compassionate and Biblical View

The Truth About Same Sex-Marriage -  6 Things You Need to Know About What’s Really at Stake

If you are looking for a book that brings clarity and reads easily on the issue, this was good. It’s not a lengthy book on the topic. Strongly biblical as are all of Erwin Lutzer’s books.

Our responsibility is to stand firm for Christ, witnessing to His grace and power. Whatever your view is on the subject, the book is written with discernment and compassion.

 

These are some of the title chapters:

While we were sleeping
The Church must speak
We must consult the Designers manual
We must remember the children
We must resist the pressure
Act now
Seek God

Copyright ©
Publisher Moody Publishers
ISBN 0802491766

Review date: Oct 2010

Return to Your First Love

A Simple Christianity: Rediscover the Foundational

Principles of Our Faith

As Christians we are taught from scripture to stay in the race and stay faithful to Christ. Along the way we will fail just like some of the disciples did, but we are to repent, get up and finish the race in the pursuit of Christ. We are in a race and the road is upward. It begins on earth and ends in heaven where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Col. 3:3) This book brings you back to the basics and the very foundation of the Christian faith.

This is a book about restoring a vibrant relationship with Christ. Rev. 2:5a says: “Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first;” MacArthur writes that many give up in the race. This book will give you the encouragement and strength to keep standing firm on the sound teaching in the Bible and gives godly counsel and wisdom and sound biblical doctrine.

Copyright © 2009

Publisher Gospel Light
ISBN 0830747540

Reading/Review date: September 2010

A helpful Resource on Spiritual Abuse

Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse - Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church

Some churches uses their spiritual authority to control and dominate others. This book is a valuable work on the subject. The Authors do a good job at giving the marks of false spiritual leadership and their impact on an individual and/or a congregation. This is a good resource to have.

Spiritual abuse seems to be on the rise and more pervasive these days. Performance-based Christianity and legalism is often replacing the gift of Salvation in Christ and many are not experiencing the grace that is clearly taught in the Bible. Matt 23:13 the author notes that the ones being rejected from “enter in” are not rebellious God-rejecters, but are the ones that are responding to God---and go to church, but when they get there, “they come under a false-basis of authority, heavy weights of legalistic, load-carrying, and external performance,”…they get a form of godliness void of power 2 Tim. 3:5. The author also shows how scriptures on submission are taken out of context and twisted.

No one needs to be in a cult to suffer under spiritual abuse. If you are a new believer or a longtime Christian follower of Christ, remember that God’s Word the bible will encourage you to stand firm in the faith and not be put into bondage - Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Jesus came to heal the brokenhearted and to bring peace and rest and hope for our souls in Him.  Recommended Read.

Copyright © 2005
Publisher Bethany House
ISBN: 0764201379

Reading/Review date: September 2010

Current Trends Examined

This Little Church Had None: A Church in Search of the Truth

 This is Pastor Gilley’s latest addition in a series of books he has written, that addresses the contemporary evangelical movements and is discerning their affects on the church and the individual Christian. The author has written extensively on the culture’s affect on the church. The content is broken up into 3 parts: 1. Obstacles to Truth, 2. Te way back, and part 3. Evangelism. Gilley makes another pleas in this book for a return to biblical preaching and a renewed confidence in the word of god. In the final chapter dealing with evangelism, co-author Jay Wegter outlines a series of questions and discussions that are designed to simplify worldviews, and then gives practical, biblical ways the bible can address them.

Copyright © 2009

Publisher Evangelical Press
ISBN 0852347081

Reading/Review date: July 2010

Thinking about Eternity - A Biblical Study of Eternal Matters

Your Eternal Reward: Triumph and Tears at the

Judgment Seat of Christ

There are misconceptions about the judgment seat (Bema) for believers, and what will happen when the Christian goes home to be with the Lord. This book helps to bring clarity. What the author writes may challenge a preconceived belief about what you might of thought your meeting with Christ would produce. Although Salvation is guaranteed for the believer who accepts Christ by faith Eph 2:8,9, but rewards will vary. Our deeds and motives will be examined. Lutzer writes: The purpose of our trials and temptations here is to train us for ruling with Christ. We will either be commended or we will have shame at His coming. 1 John 2:28 The key elements outstanding in this equation is Faithfulness and obedience to Christ. How we do here might determine our status in heaven for all eternity.

The Judgment seat will reveal the type of person we really are. Although there are similarities between the Bema and the White Throne judgment 2 Cor. 5:10 tells us all will appear at one or the other: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” Lutzer lists several qualities Christ will be looking for: acceptance of injustice, Financial generosity, hospitality, spiritual disciplines, faithfulness in our vocation, loving the unlovable, doctrinal integrity, investment in people, watching for Christ return and acceptance of suffering. There is much encouragement for the Christian to stand firm in the faith.

A popular opinion you’ll hear Christians say; “Christ won’t be asking about your doctrine when you get to heaven”. Pastor Lutzer clarifies this with scripture by directing the reader to 2 John 1 and verse 8 where we are warned of deceivers and false teaching and it’s damaging spiritual affects that will bear on the outcome of a full-reward. Sound doctrine not only protects us from false teaching but will merit a more complete reward on the day of Judgment. This book is a good starting point of study.

Erwin W. Lutzer  has been Senior Pastor of Moody Church in Chicago for over 30 years and has written numerous books. He is also a featured speaker on Moody Network daily radio broadcast “Running to Win.” Running to win radio - http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/running-to-win/  and is the author of many christian books.   It can be ordered at Christianbook.com

Copyright © 1998
Publisher Moody Publishers
ISBN: 0802441920

 

Reading/Review date: July 2010

Stand Firm in the Faith and have a Biblical Worldview

Grave Influence 21 Radicals and Their Worldviews that Rule America from the Grave

Brannon Howse begins by writing that Christians must stand firm for righteousness and says; “lies have been cleverly packaged in positive masking terms but behind them remains a destructive spiritual agenda.” The Christian must stand firm in the faith and proclaim the truths found in scripture.

 

The author’s passion is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and to teach a biblical worldview. He believes the church can be reclaimed even if the culture can’t. At this point most Christians seem to know that Socialism is ravaging our country but may not know how we got to this point and where and who these ideas originated from. This book is an examination of 21 dead radicals, and their ideas, values and worldviews, and the influence they continue to have. Brannon Howse writes: “If you’re ready for this spiritual battle you’ll stand a better chance of keeping the faith, proclaiming the truth, standing firm for your family and it’s convictions, and enduring till the end.”

Part of this spiritual battle is--being equipped with a strong biblical worldview, this is what the author sets out to equip the reader with in this book. We encourage pastors, laymen, Sunday school teachers and parents to get this book and share this valuable information to fortify your faith and a biblical worldview. This book can be ordered at worldview weekend  at the website.  

Brannon Howse is founder and president of Worldview Weekend Conference. Brannon is also the host of the radio talk show Worldview Matters and has served as the education reporter for the Michael Reagan Show for many years. He is the author of several books on Christian worldview issues.

Copyright © 2009

Publisher Worldview Weekend Publishing

ISBN 0-9785014-7-0

 

Reading/Review date: June 2010

The Grave Influence of Karl Marx Video link:

videoid=4368http://www.worldviewweekend.com/worldview-tube/video.php?videoid=4369

The Grave Influence of Saul Alinksy

http://www.worldviewweekend.com/worldview-tube/video.php?

A Book that Needs to be Read by Christians

When A Nation Forgets God - 7 Lessons We Must Learn

This is a timely book that addresses the concerns that are on the minds of many Christians today about the state our Country is in and where will we go from here. In the opening content of the book the Author states: “Back in the 1970’s Francis Schaeffer told us that one day we would wake up and discover that the America we once knew was gone.” that day is here. One does not have to be a prophet to see that dark days are coming to the United States. There are ominous signs that the freedoms we once assumed were ours are disappearing. Forces of secularism lead inevitably to a totalitarian state to which everyone is expected to submit.” (pg. 12)

Pastor Lutzer reminds us again of the precarious times in which we live by writing: “Francis Schaeffer used to tell us, people are willing to march down the wrong path if only they can be assured of personal peace and affluence. They willingly march forward, not asking where the path will lead.” (pg. 45, Chp. 2 subtitled: The Power of the economy)

This book is written to the believer and the church, we are not to react in an unbiblical way by what’s taking place in our nation, but what we are to be found doing is to be a creditable witness to the saving grace found in Christ. Lutzer says: “God is humbling us, that the political solutions that were suppose to rescue our nation from it’s moral and spiritual freefall have had scant effect. We are learning that the problem is deeper than we thought. In sum, we must realize that only God can save us from those trends that have already evoked His judgment. “ (From the introduction)

He writes that Nazi Germany has some lessons to teach us. The author writes that Nazism did not arise in a vacuum, that their were cultural streams that made it possible for the ideology to emerge, eventually gained wide acceptance by the popular culture of it’s time.

This book starts out very interesting, and ends in the same manner. Early on in the book, before even chapter 1 begins, Lutzer writes, “Today we face cultural pressures that are forcing us to combine Christ with other religions, or to combine Christ with a political or ideological agenda. The experience of the church Nazi Germany reminds us that Christ must always stand alone; He must be worshiped not as one who stands alongside the governmental leaders of this world, but as standing above them as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” (pg 11) We must stand firm in our faith on the truths in the Bible in the midst of this gathering storm.

Erwin Lutzer reminds the reader: “that before Hitler moved to destroy the church, he decided to go make peace with it, and use it for his own ends.” (Chp. 1 pg. 18) The author goes on to give a brief history of the church and the people in these events and gives the reasons for why they conceded to do what they did.

Erwin Lutzer gives “Seven Lessons” in this book we can learn from

1. When God is separated from Government, Judgment folows
2. It’s always the economy
3. That which is legal might also be evil
4. Propaganda can change a Nation
5. Parents - not the State - are responsible for a child’s training
6. Ordinary heroes can make a difference
7. We must exalt the cross in the gathering darkness

In the final chapter titled: When a Nation forgets God - “We must exalt the cross in the gathering darkness”, what the Author writes is so amazingly accurate that it is worth quoting: “Here in America we have what many believe is a new phenomenon in the history of the church. In previous eras we have seen the gospel neglected or even mocked by religious liberals and nominal Christians - that is to be expected. What is different today is that the message of the Cross is being ignored even by those who claim to be saved by it’s message. At the very time when the gospel must be proclaimed most clearly, we are hearing muffled voices even from some of the great evangelical pulpits of our land. Christian books flood our markets that have little to do with the heart of the Christian message.” (pg. 136-137).

Pastor Erwin Lutzer is Senior Pastor of Moody Church in Chicago and is the Author of many books. This book is a MUST READ, and you will not put it down until you’ve finished it. I’m surprised this book isn’t in the top 10 Christian books. It is not a lengthy book, we found it to be a quick read and thought-provoking.

Copyright © 2010

Publisher Moody Press
ISBN 0802446566
Reading/Review date: April 2010

When a Nation Forgets God

SEE VIDEO : http://youtu.be/u7O6IVy2YCc

 

Stand Firm on the Essential Doctrines

 An Excellent Resource 

This colorful, eye-friendly, brief, but excellent summary of Christian doctrine pamphlet is beautifully done. 

16 points of Essentials are given and explained in concise form.

Other points of interest include: The Essential Doctrines in the Creeds, and a glossary of terms listing some of the words used throughout the writing are included with condensed definitions.

Topics covered in this pamphlet include:
God's Unity---There is only one God.
God's Tri-unity---One God in three Persons
Christ's Virgin Birth Human Depravity---No one can win God's favor by their own efforts
Christ's Sinlessness
Christ's Deity
Christ's Humanity
Necessity of God's Grace
Necessity of Faith
Christ's Atoning Death
Christ's Bodily Resurrection
Christ's Bodily Ascension
Christ's Intercession
Christ's Second Coming
Inspiration of Scriptures

There is also a helpful chart on how other Religious groups treat these Essentials. A great little fold-out that is done on glossy paper for durability. It is a handy resource to have or to give away.

Copyright © 2007
Publisher Rose Publishing
ISBN 1596361433

Read/Review date: April 2010

Called

 An Inspiring story of Courage and Faith

Could not put this book down till I had finished it. You’ll feel as though you are right there with Lisa Jefferson as she goes through her experience. It was an incredible story of Heroism and courage that will inspire and fortify your faith. The impact of what a few minutes can have on a life is seldom reflected on so well as how Lisa Jefferson recounts in her dramatic story from Sept 11, 2001 as she took a call from one of the passengers aboard flight 93, and tells it with such compassion and details of how this event had forever changed her life. She relies on her relationship with God to get her through the tough and unknown terrain she was plunged into.

Lisa’s recounting of her experience brings out some very foundational lessons of faith and trust in God and it’s lessons are applicable for anyone facing those difficult seasons in life. How well will we act on those crisis moments in our lives? How has God prepared us so uniquely just for a certain task to handle those unexpected crisis moments? She says that each life experience, bitter or sweet, is a part of our training and preparation for the future. God may need you to intervene in a situation that will require your specific skill or experience. There are no ordinary people. Lisa stands firm in her faith and trust God through the difficult situation and encourages her readers to do the same in their own lives.

Copyright © 2006

Publisher Northfield publishing
ISBN 13: 978-1-881273-75-2

Read/Reviewed date: July 5, 2010