Christian Books

Warm-hearted mini-biographies of John Newton, Charles Simeon and William Wilberforce, 18th-19th century evangelicals whose lives demonstrated invincible perseverance in the cause of the gospel and offer inspiration to the contemporary reader.

Bill and Lynne Hybels draw on their own personal experience and a guiding faith to offer practical advice on how to enjoy a lifetime of togetherness -- from finding a suitable mate and dealing with the most common marital problems to avoiding the pitfalls that can sabotage a healthy relationship. This easy-to-follow guide for enjoying a happy, healthy, and lifelong relationship - Creative ways to 'court' your spouse - Checklists for singles to use in selecting a mate - Steps to resolve conflict and not drive it underground - Practical ways to determine relational fit -- Whether you are already married or planning to marry in the future, the authors' sound, wholesome advice can show you how to make wise decisions about whom to marry and how to stay married for a long time.

"He comes as yet unknown into a hamlet of Lower Galilee. He is watched by the cold, hard eyes of peasants living long enough at a subsistence level to know exactly where the line is drawn between poverty and destitution. He looks like a beggar yet his eyes lack the proper cringe, his voice the proper whine, his walk the proper shuffle. He speaks about the rule of God and they listen as much from curiosity as anything else. They know all about rule and power, about kingdom and empire, but they know it in terms of tax and debt, malnutrition and sickness, agrarian oppression and demonic possession. What, they really want to know, can this kingdom of God do for a lame child, a blind parent, a demented soul screaming its tortured isolation among the graves that mark the edges of the village?"–– from "The Gospel of Jesus," overture to The Historical Jesus The Historical Jesus reveals the true Jesus––who he was, what he did, what he said. It opens with "The Gospel of Jesus," Crossan's studied determination of Jesus' actual words and actions stripped of any subsequent additions and placed in a capsule account of his life story. The Jesus who emerges is a savvy and courageous Jewish Mediterranean peasant, a radical social revolutionary, with a rhapsodic vision of economic, political, and religious egalitarianism and a social program for creating it.The conventional wisdom of critical historical scholarship has long held that too little is known about the historical Jesus to say definitively much more than that he lived and had a tremendous impact on his followers. "There were always historians who said it could not be done because of historical problems," writes Crossan. "There were always theologians who said it should not be done because of theological objections. And there were always scholars who said the former when they meant the latter.'With this ground–breaking work, John Dominic Crossan emphatically sweeps these notions aside. He demonstrates that Jesus is actually one of the best documented figures in ancient history; the challenge is the complexity of the sources. The vivid portrayal of Jesus that emerges from Crossan's unique methodology combines the complementary disciplines of social anthropology, Greco–Roman history, and the literary analysis of specific pronouncements, anecdotes, confessions and interpretations involving Jesus. All three levels cooperate equally and fully in an effective synthesis that provides the most definitive presentation of the historical Jesus yet attained.

Pope Benedict XVI's iconic life of Jesus, a rich, compelling, flesh-and-blood portrait of the central figure of the Christian faith."This book is . . . my personal search 'for the face of the Lord.'"--Benedict XVI In this bold, momentous work, the Pope seeks to salvage the person of Jesus from today's "popular" depictions and to restore his true identity as discovered in the Gospels. Through his brilliance as a theologian and his personal conviction as a believer, the Pope incites us to encounter Jesus face to face.From Jesus of Nazareth ". . . the great question that will be with us throughout this entire book: But what has Jesus really brought, then, if he has not brought world peace, universal prosperity, and a better world? What has he brought? The answer is very simple: God. He has brought God! He has brought the God who once gradually unveiled his countenance first to Abraham, then to Moses and the prophets, and then in the wisdom literature-the God who showed his face only in Israel, even though he was also honored among the pagans in various shadowy guises. It is this God, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, the true God, whom he has brought to the peoples of the earth. He has brought God, and now we know his face, now we can call upon him. Now we know the path that we human beings have to take in this world. Jesus has brought God and with God the truth about where we are going and where we come from: faith, hope, and love."

This book is a captivating biography of Rees Howells, who through his intercessory prayer had an impact on the world. Norman Grubb, with his simple, humorous and humanistic writing style, narrates the story. The book showcases the power of intercession, which could inspire and enhance the prayer life of readers.

This book, "When The Cherry Trees Blossomed," is a collection of short stories that offer a captivating glimpse into the culture and history of Japan. From a Buddhist bonze recounting a devastating earthquake to a sculptor's conversion experience, these diverse tales highlight the depth and beauty of Japanese society. With the development of Opus Dei as a backdrop, this book seamlessly weaves faith, adventure, and an exploration of faith in a country where Christianity is a minority. Dive into these unforgettable stories and immerse yourself in the essence of Japan.

Augustine's story is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. His honest account of his spiritual journey is relatable and inspiring for anyone seeking truth and purpose in life. The book provides a vivid glimpse into the culture of Roman Africa and the early church, while also reminding readers of the timeless wisdom of God's Word. Highly recommended for those interested in Christian history and personal growth.

"J. Hudson Taylor: A Man in Christ" is a must-read for anyone interested in the life of a true missionary pioneer. The book recounts the inspiring journey of J. Hudson Taylor as he dedicated his life to serving God and sharing the gospel with people in China. Written by acclaimed biographer Roger Steer, the book captures the essence of God's grace and what he can do with a life that is fully consecrated to Him. Readers will be inspired by Taylor's unwavering faith and his passion for spreading the love of Christ.

What will you build your life on? With startling transparency, Joshua Harris shares how we can rediscover the relevance and power of Christian truth . This is book shows a young man who rose quickly to success in the Christian evangelical world before he realized his spirituality lacked a foundation—it rested more on tradition and morality than on an informed knowledge of God. For the indifferent or spiritually numb, Harris's humorous and engaging reflections on Christian beliefs show that orthodoxy isn't just for scholars—it is for anyone who longs to know the living Jesus Christ. As Harris writes, "I've come to learn that theology matters. It matters not because we want to impress people, but because what we know about God shapes the way we think and live. Theology matters because if we get it wrong then our whole life will be wrong." Whether you are just exploring Christianity or you are a veteran believer finding yourself overly familiar and cold-hearted, Dug Down Deep will help you rediscover the timeless truths of Scripture. As Harris challenges you to root your faith and feelings about God in the person, work, and words of Jesus, he answers questions such     • What is God like and how does he speak to me?   • What difference does it make that Jesus was both human and divine?   • How does Jesus's death on the cross pay for my sins?   • Who is the Holy Spirit and how does he work in my life?With grace and wisdom, Harris will inspire you to revel in the truth that has captured his own mind and heart. He will ask you to dig deep into a faith so solid you can build your life on it. He will point you to something to believe in again.

A dramatic autobiography of one of China's dedicated, courageous, and intensely persecuted house church leaders.

Until the age of fifty, Seung-Whan (Steven) Kim, a Korean-American businessman dedicated his life to financial prosperity at the expense of both family and faith. He had earned and lost millions several times over until, in China, his business in shambles, Kim returned to Christian fellowship, rediscovered the value of family, and received a calling to help North Korean refugees escape from human trafficking, torture, and execution. In 2003, Kim was arrested and convicted of harboring refugees and leading them along an underground railroad, and he spent the next four years in Chinese labor camps. In his suffering and hardship, he immersed himself in Scripture and led a secret prison ministry, serving fellow inmates, a guard, and even a mob boss. Since his release, Kim has been a powerful advocate for North Korean refugees, especially women and children, raising awareness about their plight and fighting for their human rights. Kim's story is a thrilling, heart-breaking, and inspirational account of the spiritual victory of a real-life freedom fighter.

"A Collection of Encouragement" is a great read for anyone who loves poetry and needs a pick-me-up. The poems are heartfelt and inspiring, and will leave you feeling renewed and uplifted. Helen Steiner Rice's beautiful verse is relatable and comforting, making this book a perfect gift for someone going through a difficult time or in need of some encouragement.

If you're fascinated by the chivalry and conflict of the medieval period, "God's Warriors" will transport you back to the Crusades' fervent battles. Helen Nicholson and David Nicolle examine the lives and legacies of the Knight Templars and Saracen Faris, unearthing the human stories behind the legends. The detailed accounts and new imagery make it more than just a history lesson; it's an immersion into a pivotal chapter of the past.

This book, Soul Survivor, is a powerful exploration of faith and belief. Philip Yancey shares his own struggle to find an authentic faith and introduces readers to various individuals who have had a profound impact on his spiritual journey. Through captivating narratives and inspiring portraits, Yancey challenges readers to question their own understanding of faith and religion. Whether you are a seasoned believer or a curious seeker, this book will provide illuminating and critically important insights into true Christianity, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the power of faith.

Recommendation: This book is perfect for someone who is going through a tough time and needs a little pick-me-up. The book provides a collection of funny stories and anecdotes, contributed by various authors, that will leave you in stitches. The unique feature of this book is that it reminds readers that laughter is the best medicine and encourages them to keep smiling despite life's challenges.