The Word's Out: Principles and strategies for effective evangelism today
The Word's Out: Principles and strategies for effective evangelism today
Authors
:
David Male
and Paul Weston
Product Type: eBook with Glassboxx
£9.99
Second edition of an evangelism classic
Digital eBook Only - At a time of declining church attendance, this book challenges us to understand that evangelism is more important than ever. The problem is that churches and their leaders often struggle with the idea and concepts around evangelism, unsure of what might be theologically or culturally appropriate ways to communicate the message.
This item is available to purchase from BRF Ministries with orders being fulfilled by Glassboxx, our digital service provider.
| Title | The Word's Out: Principles and strategies for effective evangelism today |
| Authors | David Male and Paul Weston |
| ISBN | |
| Description | Digital eBook Only - At a time of declining church attendance, this book challenges us to understand that evangelism is more important than ever. The problem is that churches and their leaders often struggle with the idea and concepts around evangelism, unsure of what might be theologically or culturally appropriate ways to communicate the message. This book aims to supply principles and strategies for evangelism that are theologically rooted, practical and relevant to the 21st century. It shows how Jesus and the early church did evangelism and what we can learn from them for our situations. There is lots of practical help from two experienced practitioners to develop an evangelistic strategy for your church. It will also encourage leaders at every level of the church to be leaders and enablers in evangelism. The approach is theologically rigorous and powerfully practical, with the focus on redefining a genuine biblical evangelism. It will help you put foundations in place for developing a sustainable strategy in your church so that you can connect not just with those on the fringes but with those who are way outside.
|
| Details |
|
Digital eBook Only - At a time of declining church attendance, this book challenges us to understand that evangelism is more important than ever. The problem is that churches and their leaders often struggle with the idea and concepts around evangelism, unsure of what might be theologically or culturally appropriate ways to communicate the message.
This book aims to supply principles and strategies for evangelism that are theologically rooted, practical and relevant to the 21st century. It shows how Jesus and the early church did evangelism and what we can learn from them for our situations. There is lots of practical help from two experienced practitioners to develop an evangelistic strategy for your church. It will also encourage leaders at every level of the church to be leaders and enablers in evangelism. The approach is theologically rigorous and powerfully practical, with the focus on redefining a genuine biblical evangelism. It will help you put foundations in place for developing a sustainable strategy in your church so that you can connect not just with those on the fringes but with those who are way outside.
This is a fantastic resource, packed with theology, wisdom and practical action about how we can help more people discover the fantastic good news of the gospel. I commend it with enthusiasm.
Mark Russell, Chief Executive, Church Army
This book is a treasure store for church leaders who yearn to see the gospel reach our land anew, giving rich biblically rooted guidance on what sort of evangelism is appropriate for our age.
The Rt Revd Dr John Inge, Bishop of Worcester and Chair of the College of Evangelists
Evangelism is one of those words that seem to have become one of those embarrassing topics of conversations in recent times. I am delighted that Dave Male and Paul Weston have taken the opportunity to challenge the perceptions about evangelism and to encourage and equip people for the task of being Good News today.
The Revd Dr Joanne Cox, Evangelism in Contemporary Culture Officer, The Methodist Church
Essential reading for all those who want to see authentic evangelism back at the heart of the church.
Canon Nick Cuthbert, founder Riverside Church, Birmingham
We need all the help we can get to help ordinary people from all sorts of churches enjoy sharing their faith: bring it on!
Lucy Moore, Messy Church Team Leader at BRF
A welcome contribution to a vital issue - the emergence of a contextually appropriate form of evangelism that empowers congregations to share good news in their communities.
Stuart Murray Williams, missiologist and founder of Urban Expression
As someone who has been involved in church planting over a couple of decades now, there is no doubt in my mind that God's Church needs to rediscover the ability and Holy Spirit anointing in evangelism. My hope is that this book not only encourages us to share our faith but also to more fully understand its imperative.
Major Andrew Vertigan, Salvation Army Mission Partner, Planting
This is the book I wish had been written ten years ago. It makes sense of evangelism in today's world, and offers a thoughtful, engaging, and provocative exploration of why and how we might play our part in God's work of evangelism.
James Lawrence, Leadership Principal, CPAS
This is such a helpful book on one of the most crucially needed areas for this time from two people with the integrity to make it real and doable. Read it and action it and release the Word about the Kingdom!
Fuzz Kitto, International Church Consultant, Sydney Australia
Dave and Paul took a risk writing this. Books that mention the 'E' word simply don't sell as much as those which don't, yet what they have to say is vital for the future of the church, a practical call for all people to engage contextually with the greatest news this world has been graced with. Read it and be inspired.
Revd Chris Duffett, Founder of The Light Project and President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain
The two authors have tapped a rich vein of Biblical and historic insights to come up with a book that will both inform and inspire today's Christians to move away from some negative images of evangelism and engage in ways of inviting others to follow Jesus that will be both authentic to the Gospel and inspirational in a 21st century context.
John Drane, Affiliate Professor of New Testament & Practical Theology at Fuller Seminary, USA, and an Associate Missioner of Fresh Expressions
What does healthy evangelism look like in the West today, so that it remains true to the heart of evangelism but appropriate for our world? This book contributes a much-needed voice of clarity and good Biblical sense to the current conversation.
John Bowen, Professor of Evangelism & Director of the Institute of Evangelism, Toronto
The Revd Dr Paul Weston teaches mission studies at Ridley Hall, Cambridge and is an affiliated lecturer in the Cambridge University Divinity Faculty. A member of the Archbishops' College of Evangelists, he has led over a hundred missions in parishes and universities both here and abroad. He has written widely on gospel and culture issues, most recently as co-editor of Theology in Missionary Perspective: Lesslie Newbigin's Legacy (Wipf & Stock, 2012).
The Revd David Male is Director of the Centre for Pioneer Learning and Tutor in Pioneer Mission Training at Ridley Hall and Westcott House, Cambridge, and Fresh Expressions Adviser for Ely Diocese. A member of the Archbishops' College of Evangelists, he has also written Church Unplugged and contributed to books on church planting and fresh expressions, including Pioneers 4 Life (BRF, 2011) which he edited.
The Reader, Winter 2019
With a foreword by the current Archbishop of Canterbury, this book has timely advice for any church seeking fresh thoughts and ideas for gospel outreach. It immediately reminds us that evangelism is not an abstract concept but ‘the natural overflow of an authentic Christian life’, and that it must be ‘the instinctive sharing of good news’. Jesus’ ministry, the authors remind us, reached people because they were amazed at his life and actions (Mark 1.27). This book is not primarily a source of practical ideas, but a thought provoking re-examination of principles, and thus most useful as background reading within a ministry team planning a church’s gospel outreach. The study is thoroughly based on an intelligent reading of the NT accounts of (especially) Jesus’ dealings with individuals, and the examination of Paul’s sermon in Athens is also particularly interesting. The text includes a useful analysis of such initiatives as the Billy Graham crusades of the 1950s and the contemporary Alpha phenomenon. However, it is interesting that gospel initiatives perceived as successful were mostly ineffective in reaching people with no prior connection with any church.
Reviewed by Richard Carter
Baptist Times online 26.02.19. Review by the Revd Dr Martin M'Caw
Some books are written for a specific readership, be they historians, railway buffs, music lovers or whatever. The target readership for The Word's Out is the Christian world at large. Its purpose is to stimulate evangelism as an integral part of the Christian life and as the Archbishop of Canterbury states in his foreword, the authors 'have performed a service to the church.'
The Word's Out is far from being a dull teach yourself text book. It's a warm, enthusiastic presentation of 'principles and strategies for effective evangelism today.' In doing so there is a historic summary of evangelism in terms of the big evangelistic campaigns of Moody and Sankey in the 19th century or Billy Graham in the 20th, when most men and women in the street had a smattering of Christian knowledge, in stark contrast to our contemporary second and third generation unchurched society.
The authors present a pattern of evangelism that is rooted in the ministry of Jesus and the activities of the New Testament church. They recognise there is a role for the specialist evangelist, but the key to the heart of evangelism has to flow from ministers whose role is necessarily pastor/evangelist, teacher/evangelist leading and encouraging their church members to grow in their love for the Lord so that evangelism becomes not 'a stand alone activity distinct from the rest of discipleship but that natural overflow of an authentic Christian life.'
The encouragement to develop evangelism as an integral part of discipleship is well set in the over-used context of post-modern society which has 'a wider cultural phenomenon of institutional dislocation.' Paul Weston's analysis is that contemporary society is not so much secular as one in which 'belief is drifting away from orthodoxy...disconnected without an anchor' to a smorgasbord of religious and world views.
This is a book which encourages Christians to go with the flow in the love of God, stimulating the passion and drive to grow in the Lord, and looking to help overcome their crises in confidence when talking about the faith. It's an encouragement for fellowships that are demographically challenged by dwindling numbers and a wake-up call to those Christians who only come to church to be fed with a three course sermon.
This is a book for every Christian. Have you heard? The word's out so let's get on with it, to be it and do it so that our evangelism really becomes part of our daily discipleship.
Reviewed by the Revd Dr Martin M'Caw, retired Baptist minister and Wing Chaplain no 2 Welsh Wing RAF Cadets
______________________________________________
The Irish Methodist Newsletter, April/May 2019. Review by Stephen Skuce, Director of Global Relationships, The British Methodist Church
This is, I think, the most readable introduction on the understanding and practice of evangelism from a British perspective currently available. It covers in sufficient rather than obsessive detail how we got to our current state, what an understanding of evangelism looks like, how the Bible views evangelism, and how we engage in evangelism today. Throughout good research is engaged with, but not allowed to turn the text into an academic treatise. Questions at the end of each chapter make this a very useful tool for a home group. This book is really well done.
Dave Male is the Director of Evangelism for the Church of England and Paul Weston leads the Newbigin Centre at Cambridge. Often the weakness of such a background for a Methodist reader is an Anglican assumption of what is the norm and then the need for us to translate to our own context. Male and Weston avoid this and have produced a book that is very accessible across the swath of British Christianity. There is a need for further thinking on some of the contexts in the Republic of Ireland, and thankfully that is starting to emerge from some associated with new churches.
There are a couple of highlights for me in this revised text from the 2013 original. Male considers five main epochs in evangelism in Britain over the past 100 years moving through the 1910 Edinburgh missionary conference, the 1945 Anglican evangelism initiative, Billy Graham's 1954 visit, rise of Alpha from 1990 and the role of Stormzy from 2018. I imagine most Irish Methodists are fine with three of these eras, perhaps a bit hazy about the Anglican initiative after World War Two, and blank about Stormzy. And if so, its our lack of awareness of what the urban rap artist Stormzy's understanding of faith means today that examples our partial dislocation from wider society. Look him up at https://stormzy.com/. Billy Graham he is not, but is an example of a very challenging contemporary understanding and outworking of faith.
Weston's chapter on witnessing from the inside out looks at the way Jesus brought the challenge of full commitment to God out of ordinary circumstances and conversational situations, whereas we more often attempt to insert faith a bit artificially into conversation and can end up arguing for 'Four Spiritual Laws' and the like. This type of expression of the gospel worked well up to recently, however the language of such an approach is increasingly alien to most, but increasingly such an approach is also viewed as inauthentic. Weston points us to the more natural stuff of life that Jesus engaged in as the authentic context for conversations about faith, commitment and discipleship.
This is a fine book, even if the title is a tad quirky. After reading this, well worth going on to Irish Methodism's Billy Abraham and his Logic of Evangelism for a more abstract level of thinking. Let's learn from others, that we might better communicate our faith with those around us today.
Reviewed by the Revd Dr Stephen Skuce,Director of Global Relationships, The British Methodist Church
_______________________________________________
The Magazine - Diocese of Norwich July-August 2016
A challenging book in which the authors acknowledge that whilst there is a lot of missional language being used in the church today this might be masking a diminishing confidence and increasing hesitancy about evangelism. Examining New Testament writers' views, they cite the evangelism of the early church as a natural consequence of discipleship, with followers possessing an instinctive sharing of the good news.
Maybe this could be the model to reverse declining numbers and engage with an increasing majority who have no interest in church activities and a language that is increasingly foreign in a postmodern secular culture?
Steve Foyster
The Word's Out: Speaking the Gospel Today, by David Male and Paul Weston. Weston and Male represent the thoughtful and creative edge of the contemporary English 'fresh expressions' movement. They have a long record in serious theological reflection and sustained personal evangelistic practice. Unlike many evangelistic efforts in the United States, which are obsessed with the church's loss of cultural status, this book works with a sober recognition of how insignificant such matters are to the church in the United Kingdom, just as they are to the church in the United States and Canada.
Reviewed by Patrick R. Keifert, The Christian Century
_______________________________________________
Related
{"id":14779820540284,"title":"On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment","handle":"on-the-way-to-work-a-christian-approach-to-thinking-differently-about-success-and-fulfillment","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDoes your work give you a sense of purpose? How do you feel when work serves up difficulties and problems? How do we work well? Is there a God, and might God have something to say about the way we work? Weaving together biblical perspectives with academic research and his own experiences of working in different settings, Chris Gillies lays the theological foundation for work, moves on to examining biblical role models from both Old and New Testaments, and concludes by exploring common issues we wrestle with in our work, from money matters or managing and leading others to knowing if we’re in the right job or simply doing the right thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zocoSqG4BN4?si=wpDl7TTQSwymPIW1\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e - \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWith thirty years’ experience of working at director level in financial services, Chris Gillies has also served on the boards of four different churches and ten UK charities including Westminster Theological Centre and The Children’s Society. He is Chair of Council for Stewardship and Treasurer for LICC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There’s new thinking here, hammered out on the anvil of a long, demanding, and successful career at the highest corporate levels through prayerful reflection, biblical engagement and careful analysis. Chris Gillies offers us a rich understanding of God’s purposes for humankind, framing his approach to work on the dynamic springboard of the life, character and work of Jesus, and on the ongoing empowering of the Holy Spirit for everyday work. This is a book that anyone at any level could profit from. Bravo. And thank you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMark Greene, mission champion, The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Christians just don’t think enough about work and the way work is changing. On the Way to Work is a treasure trove of deep insight from the scriptures and a mine of good advice from a seasoned practitioner. Chris Gillies’ insights are honed from many years’ experience and will be lifegiving for all kinds of people in different roles and occupations.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteven Croft, bishop of Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘On the Way to Work paints a reframing vision of how we can approach our working lives as worship. Such a brilliant handbook for how to approach the world of work with a kingdom-first mindset. Equipping, affirming and inspiring. I can’t wait for Monday!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCaragh Bennet, cofounder and CEO, ZENA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies combines values with brilliant business acumen. He is one of the few people I pause to think “what would Chris do” and, most importantly, how. I’ve been lucky enough for Chris to have been my professional mentor since working together at Zurich. This book offers the opportunity for everyone to experience his wisdom and guidance, helping you choose how to spend your energy and achieve your aspirations, with morals at the forefront of decisions and actions.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eKathryn Axcell-Steele, head of brand and integrated marketing, Wesleyan Assurance Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies offers a rich and rare combination of biblical wisdom, practical insight and personal experience that will inspire Christians to think differently about their work and its significance. My hope and prayer is that Christians and other readers will learn from Chris and the compelling vision he sets forth in this book.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatt Lynch, associate professor of Old Testament, Regent College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This important book is insightful and inspiring, and full of invaluable, real-life examples of leaders navigating the world of work. Anyone who is keen to discover how to best deploy their influence for the kingdom of God will find much here to guide them through their careers.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStephen Foster, rector, St Aldates, Oxford, and advisor, Alpha UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘A theology of work and a work of theology. Over many years of treasured friendship, Chris Gillies both demonstrated to me and challenged me to see that the call of God, the vocation of the Christian, is not limited to ordained ministers and foreign missionaries, but rests upon all who follow Jesus and all who are sent to serve the king and his kingdom in every sphere of life and work.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Ponsonby, pastor of theology, St Aldates, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘\u003c\/em\u003eThis book will expand your vision of what a deeply fruitful and successful life looks like. A central premise of the book is that our work matters to God and God really does matter to our work. With that as a robust foundation, Chris Gillies tackles many layers of the implications of what that means for our frontline work, time, money, decision making, relationships; in essence, our whole lives!’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNess Wilson, leader, Pioneer UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a remarkable book, and you should read it. In these pages,\u003cbr\u003eChris Gillies illuminates a path to work that is not only distinctive but\u003cbr\u003ealso the way of Jesus and of the kingdom of God. If you let this book\u003cbr\u003edo its work, it will change you – for good. Chris has crafted a work\u003cbr\u003ethat is truly transformative – a powerful journey towards personal\u003cbr\u003eand spiritual growth.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Woolley, chief executive, The London Institute for\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a timely book on the importance of work – what we do, how we\u003cbr\u003edo it and most importantly why work is part of God’s plan for what it\u003cbr\u003emeans to be human. Chris Gillies brings together years of experience,\u003cbr\u003ea biblical framework and lots of helpful illustrations in a very readable\u003cbr\u003eand accessible style.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter Lynas, UK director, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time. Chris Gillies repeatedly illustrates wise practical advice with telling anecdotes from his own experience, covering many different topics, acknowledging the value of different perspectives and sharing maturely what God has taught him along the way.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Higginson, former director and chair, Faith in Business\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this book has something invaluable to offer. It masterfully combines the wisdom of years of experience with practical advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking God’s calling on their life and true success in their work.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReuben Coulter, senior advisor, Faith Driven Investor and partner, Ignis Advisory\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a book that has been over 40 years in the writing and its depth and insights reflect the journey of a man who has set his sights on bringing kingdom influence to the highest level of businesses.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNic Harding, director, Kairos Connexion and Together for the Harvest\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies writes a wonderfully practical and thoughtful book that speaks powerfully about what it means to engage in the world of work in a distinctively Christian way. He constructs a brilliant, thorough and nuanced analysis that challenges the oft-prevailing and unhelpful narrative of the sacred–secular divide, and offers beautifully crafted autobiographical, theological and academic reflections to suggest an alternative mode of being for operating as a Christian in the workplace.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Delve, CEO, Resurgam Asset Management Limited; chair of trustees, Bridge the Gap Football\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFaith in Business Quarterly (vol 23.2). Review by David Steinegger\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e‘On the way to work, do you look forward to your day? Does it give you a sense of purpose?’ So begins the introduction to Chris Gillies’ book. \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eprovides a refreshing perspective on the theology of work, gives examples of some of the great biblical role models, offers practical insights into working through many of the common issues we face, and is enriched with examples from Chris’ own experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book is structured into three parts. The first part brings a theological perspective which starts in the Garden of Eden, continues through the redemption story and ends in the eternal city in Revelation. I appreciated how this section connects God’s great story for humankind with our stories and reminds us that our lives in our workplaces truly matter. The second part of the book highlights some of the great characters in the Old Testament and God’s anointing in their ‘workplaces’. It then moves on to the life of Christ and the characteristics of his redemptive approach. Part three, the largest section of the book, focuses on common issues we face in the workplace. This section starts with an insightful Christian worldview perspective, reminding us that there is no sacred-secular divide, and that God is profoundly interested in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn part three, Chris goes on to look at some real workplace issues, with biblical and practical insights to tackle them. For example, his chapter on ‘How do I know if I’m in the right job’ gives a scriptural base to address this question, together with practical pointers. Here he encourages readers to loosen their grip on a calling to do a specific job, and rather pursue their life’s mission. This will be helpful for many. I would add that at times God speaks very specifically into our career decisions through scripture, the holy spirit’s guidance and the voice of others. He tackles another real issue in the chapter ‘Balancing the big five’ – describing the challenge of the big five calls on our time – our relationship with God, family, work, community and rest and leisure. In reflecting on this, I was reminded that God has set eternity in our hearts (Eccl 3:11) and if we can live each day with this promise, and the challenge in mind, then we can come to a place of truly flourishing in our lives as Kingdom people – and this is much more precious than gold!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 290 pages can at first feel a little overwhelming. But I devoured the book on two long haul flights, being stimulated by the three-cord strand of biblical theology, practical insight and great examples from Chris’ many years of experience in the workplace. The summaries at the end of each chapter are helpful, as are each chapter’s questions for personal reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIt would have been helpful if the book had also explored the biblical basis and importance of having wise mentors or coaches: ‘Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.’ (Proverbs 11:14). I have found wise Christian mentors to be a great blessing on my journey in many workplaces across multiple countries and cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would also like to have seen a template in the book summarising some of the more practical learning points which are interspersed throughout the book. Perhaps a workbook could follow!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAppropriately, the book ends with a chapter on ‘the prize for running well.’ We are called to be faithful with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. We are reminded that our wok in the here and now foreshadows a new kind of redeemed work after Jesus returns. And here’s a great challenge that Chris presents: we have the opportunity to anticipate that future time by modelling it in the present and living it now for the glory of God and service to humanity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWe are called to be kingdom people in our workplaces – and in whatever we do, to work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord. Having a God-given sense of purpose in our days is essential if we are to live fulfilled lives. This book offers helpful pointers to living a purposeful life and is a great addition to the library of all who are seeking to be faithful, fruitful and fulfilled in their workplaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDavid Steinegger holds a number of non-executive positions, is a people builder, a church leader, and a trustee of several charities, including Wycliffe Bible Translators UK, which he chairs.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.07.24. Review by Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis new book on work from Chris Gillies benefits from his lifetime of working in the financial-services sector. He has spent more than 40 years in finance, working in many different markets, particularly for Zurich Insurance; and has more than 30 years’ experience as a board member of various charities, including the Children’s Society and the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. His book synthesises his own rich experience of work with his research and with perspectives from the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWhat sold the book to me was that it was described as 'quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time' by Richard Higginson. As the founder of Faith in Business, he is the oracle in this field, because he has read every book ever written on the subject. So, on this glowing recommendation, I dived straight in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book itself is very readable, with a handy summary section and points for reflection at each chapter end. Part I focuses on the basics, such as using the Bible, addressing selfishness, being fruitful, and the need to keep a focus on God’s work throughout. Part II covers “Biblical role models” from Joseph to Jesus, and profiles forgotten heroes, such as Boaz as the model employer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePart III tackles a range of knotty topics, from money to ethical decision-making, in which my favourite chapter was on “Balancing the Big Five”. It asks some sharp questions about work-life balance. His Big Five are: time with God, time with family, work time (paid or unpaid), time building community, and time for rest, leisure, and exercise. He encourages readers to analyse how they are spending their time across these activities, to identify where time spent may be out of kilter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI also really appreciated his wise words on vocation: 'the key to finding your special God-given calling is to loosen your grip on the idea that God is calling you to do a specific job.' Charles Eve once called this yearning for the certainty of a highlighted job advert our desire to 'grab the steering wheel' instead of letting God drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies likewise reminds us to look with soft eyes on the totality of our mission in life, to discern where our work and any particular job fits into the whole. Given that the world of work these days is very non-linear, this is sage advice. At the end of the book, Gillies recommends that we make use of a period of retreat to take stock of our work, to recommit ourselves to our vocation in its totality, and to listen for what God might be saying to us about what we should do next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead on newsletter review June 2024. Review by Mike Duff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSt Paul charges the Philippians, as citizens of heaven, to live utterly different lives to the Roman citizens around them. With 30 years' experience in top-level corporate leadership, Chris Gillies delivers the same powerful challenge to Christians immersed in the culture of their working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e'The idea God was as interested in my work as he was in the way I did church... that God might have work for me to do at my workplace didn't really occur to me. My understanding of why God mattered to my daily work was virtually non-existent.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAs at home in the Bible as the workplace, Chris addresses this autobiographical question through four basic themes: how it all started; the problem of selfishness; what it means to be fruitful; where we are heading. Elements of the salvation story are carefully worked out as they apply not in church, home or individual discipleship but in our working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNext, he explores with penetrating insight some obvious biblical role models - Joseph, Jethro, Daniel and others - and less obviously how Jesus approached his own redeeming work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe longest section applies biblical discipleship themes to the workplace: What is the prevailing workplace worldview and how might we confront and change it? Am I in the right job? How can we do we do the right thing and adopt a godly lifestyle amid pressures to conform? How do we balance the major claims on our time when work demands everything? How would Jesus have us handle money and lead others? What is our true reward for working well?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePreachers will recognise in this outstanding resource many familiar insights but applied with a clarity, insight and authority ew will have achieved. Those whose work is outside the church will find themselves challenged by God's intimate and relentless concern with their working life. Church leaders will be given a profound insight into the world of work and how to shape the life of the church so that it connects with this vital 'frontline'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Duff, CPAS Patronage Secretary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRichard Frost, writer and blogger: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. 1 June 2024\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBooks providing a Christian perspective on work can at times feel as rare as hearing a sermon on the topic. So, Chris Gillies' offering is a welcome contribution and one which I looked forward to reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI spent most of my professional career helping people with their work and also supporting businesses and organisations in caring for staff. I even wrote a book about it myself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eChris Gillies brings a wealth of experience from senior management positions in financial sector businesses and charitable organisations. This, combined with insight from his faith and biblical knowledge, and observations from others (most notably Mark Greene, well known for his own work in this field) provides a strong base on which to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies explores the nature of work from Genesis through Old Testament examples such as Joseph and Daniel and the core characteristics Jesus demonstrates for us to aspire to. The author also includes a number of examples of businesses adopting a godly approach towards people, practice and profit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIts pages are full of well-rehearsed biblical insights and familiar business-speak which will resonate particularly with those with similar faith perspectives and senior leadership experience. For this reviewer, I would have liked to have seen more content which relates to the vast majority of those who find themselves on the way to work: the ones who don't occupy well-paid, high-level, influential roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNevertheless, for those who wish to explore this important aspect of life (and one which, for many, occupies a considerable amount of it of it) it is a thought-provoking read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, a former employment specialist, and the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003efour other books\u003c\/a\u003e. Richard writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks for Today April 2024. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eOn the way to work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfilment \u003c\/em\u003eby Chris Gillies, who is the treasurer of the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, is intended for all those who are at work, to help them live out their faith Mondays to Fridays. Divided into three parts, the first section is entitled ‘From a garden to a city’; the second looks at some of the Old Testament heroes and goes on to reflect on Jesus and how Christians today have sought to implement the teaching of Jesus in the workplace; while the third section deals with some is very down-to-earth issues such as how hard we should we work along with money matters. At the end of each chapter there’s a summary of the key principles. This is a good book for ministers to commend to their people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more-8148\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\" data-mce-style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T11:34:29+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T11:33:41+00:00","vendor":"Chris Gillies","type":"eBook","tags":["2024","Discipleship","For individuals","Glassboxx","Mission"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604918854012,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392403","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1299,"weight":316,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392403","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/335.png?v=1730980338","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/336.png?v=1730980354"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/335.png?v=1730980338","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001490096508,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/335.png?v=1730980338"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/335.png?v=1730980338","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001493504380,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/336.png?v=1730980354"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/336.png?v=1730980354","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDoes your work give you a sense of purpose? How do you feel when work serves up difficulties and problems? How do we work well? Is there a God, and might God have something to say about the way we work? Weaving together biblical perspectives with academic research and his own experiences of working in different settings, Chris Gillies lays the theological foundation for work, moves on to examining biblical role models from both Old and New Testaments, and concludes by exploring common issues we wrestle with in our work, from money matters or managing and leading others to knowing if we’re in the right job or simply doing the right thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zocoSqG4BN4?si=wpDl7TTQSwymPIW1\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChris Gillies\u003c\/strong\u003e - \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWith thirty years’ experience of working at director level in financial services, Chris Gillies has also served on the boards of four different churches and ten UK charities including Westminster Theological Centre and The Children’s Society. He is Chair of Council for Stewardship and Treasurer for LICC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘There’s new thinking here, hammered out on the anvil of a long, demanding, and successful career at the highest corporate levels through prayerful reflection, biblical engagement and careful analysis. Chris Gillies offers us a rich understanding of God’s purposes for humankind, framing his approach to work on the dynamic springboard of the life, character and work of Jesus, and on the ongoing empowering of the Holy Spirit for everyday work. This is a book that anyone at any level could profit from. Bravo. And thank you.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMark Greene, mission champion, The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Christians just don’t think enough about work and the way work is changing. On the Way to Work is a treasure trove of deep insight from the scriptures and a mine of good advice from a seasoned practitioner. Chris Gillies’ insights are honed from many years’ experience and will be lifegiving for all kinds of people in different roles and occupations.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSteven Croft, bishop of Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘On the Way to Work paints a reframing vision of how we can approach our working lives as worship. Such a brilliant handbook for how to approach the world of work with a kingdom-first mindset. Equipping, affirming and inspiring. I can’t wait for Monday!’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCaragh Bennet, cofounder and CEO, ZENA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies combines values with brilliant business acumen. He is one of the few people I pause to think “what would Chris do” and, most importantly, how. I’ve been lucky enough for Chris to have been my professional mentor since working together at Zurich. This book offers the opportunity for everyone to experience his wisdom and guidance, helping you choose how to spend your energy and achieve your aspirations, with morals at the forefront of decisions and actions.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eKathryn Axcell-Steele, head of brand and integrated marketing, Wesleyan Assurance Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies offers a rich and rare combination of biblical wisdom, practical insight and personal experience that will inspire Christians to think differently about their work and its significance. My hope and prayer is that Christians and other readers will learn from Chris and the compelling vision he sets forth in this book.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMatt Lynch, associate professor of Old Testament, Regent College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This important book is insightful and inspiring, and full of invaluable, real-life examples of leaders navigating the world of work. Anyone who is keen to discover how to best deploy their influence for the kingdom of God will find much here to guide them through their careers.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStephen Foster, rector, St Aldates, Oxford, and advisor, Alpha UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘A theology of work and a work of theology. Over many years of treasured friendship, Chris Gillies both demonstrated to me and challenged me to see that the call of God, the vocation of the Christian, is not limited to ordained ministers and foreign missionaries, but rests upon all who follow Jesus and all who are sent to serve the king and his kingdom in every sphere of life and work.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Ponsonby, pastor of theology, St Aldates, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘\u003c\/em\u003eThis book will expand your vision of what a deeply fruitful and successful life looks like. A central premise of the book is that our work matters to God and God really does matter to our work. With that as a robust foundation, Chris Gillies tackles many layers of the implications of what that means for our frontline work, time, money, decision making, relationships; in essence, our whole lives!’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNess Wilson, leader, Pioneer UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a remarkable book, and you should read it. In these pages,\u003cbr\u003eChris Gillies illuminates a path to work that is not only distinctive but\u003cbr\u003ealso the way of Jesus and of the kingdom of God. If you let this book\u003cbr\u003edo its work, it will change you – for good. Chris has crafted a work\u003cbr\u003ethat is truly transformative – a powerful journey towards personal\u003cbr\u003eand spiritual growth.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Woolley, chief executive, The London Institute for\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContemporary Christianity (LICC)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e‘This is a timely book on the importance of work – what we do, how we\u003cbr\u003edo it and most importantly why work is part of God’s plan for what it\u003cbr\u003emeans to be human. Chris Gillies brings together years of experience,\u003cbr\u003ea biblical framework and lots of helpful illustrations in a very readable\u003cbr\u003eand accessible style.’\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeter Lynas, UK director, Evangelical Alliance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time. Chris Gillies repeatedly illustrates wise practical advice with telling anecdotes from his own experience, covering many different topics, acknowledging the value of different perspectives and sharing maturely what God has taught him along the way.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Higginson, former director and chair, Faith in Business\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this book has something invaluable to offer. It masterfully combines the wisdom of years of experience with practical advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking God’s calling on their life and true success in their work.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eReuben Coulter, senior advisor, Faith Driven Investor and partner, Ignis Advisory\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a book that has been over 40 years in the writing and its depth and insights reflect the journey of a man who has set his sights on bringing kingdom influence to the highest level of businesses.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNic Harding, director, Kairos Connexion and Together for the Harvest\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Chris Gillies writes a wonderfully practical and thoughtful book that speaks powerfully about what it means to engage in the world of work in a distinctively Christian way. He constructs a brilliant, thorough and nuanced analysis that challenges the oft-prevailing and unhelpful narrative of the sacred–secular divide, and offers beautifully crafted autobiographical, theological and academic reflections to suggest an alternative mode of being for operating as a Christian in the workplace.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Delve, CEO, Resurgam Asset Management Limited; chair of trustees, Bridge the Gap Football\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFaith in Business Quarterly (vol 23.2). Review by David Steinegger\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e‘On the way to work, do you look forward to your day? Does it give you a sense of purpose?’ So begins the introduction to Chris Gillies’ book. \u003ci\u003eOn the Way to Work \u003c\/i\u003eprovides a refreshing perspective on the theology of work, gives examples of some of the great biblical role models, offers practical insights into working through many of the common issues we face, and is enriched with examples from Chris’ own experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book is structured into three parts. The first part brings a theological perspective which starts in the Garden of Eden, continues through the redemption story and ends in the eternal city in Revelation. I appreciated how this section connects God’s great story for humankind with our stories and reminds us that our lives in our workplaces truly matter. The second part of the book highlights some of the great characters in the Old Testament and God’s anointing in their ‘workplaces’. It then moves on to the life of Christ and the characteristics of his redemptive approach. Part three, the largest section of the book, focuses on common issues we face in the workplace. This section starts with an insightful Christian worldview perspective, reminding us that there is no sacred-secular divide, and that God is profoundly interested in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn part three, Chris goes on to look at some real workplace issues, with biblical and practical insights to tackle them. For example, his chapter on ‘How do I know if I’m in the right job’ gives a scriptural base to address this question, together with practical pointers. Here he encourages readers to loosen their grip on a calling to do a specific job, and rather pursue their life’s mission. This will be helpful for many. I would add that at times God speaks very specifically into our career decisions through scripture, the holy spirit’s guidance and the voice of others. He tackles another real issue in the chapter ‘Balancing the big five’ – describing the challenge of the big five calls on our time – our relationship with God, family, work, community and rest and leisure. In reflecting on this, I was reminded that God has set eternity in our hearts (Eccl 3:11) and if we can live each day with this promise, and the challenge in mind, then we can come to a place of truly flourishing in our lives as Kingdom people – and this is much more precious than gold!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe 290 pages can at first feel a little overwhelming. But I devoured the book on two long haul flights, being stimulated by the three-cord strand of biblical theology, practical insight and great examples from Chris’ many years of experience in the workplace. The summaries at the end of each chapter are helpful, as are each chapter’s questions for personal reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIt would have been helpful if the book had also explored the biblical basis and importance of having wise mentors or coaches: ‘Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.’ (Proverbs 11:14). I have found wise Christian mentors to be a great blessing on my journey in many workplaces across multiple countries and cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI would also like to have seen a template in the book summarising some of the more practical learning points which are interspersed throughout the book. Perhaps a workbook could follow!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAppropriately, the book ends with a chapter on ‘the prize for running well.’ We are called to be faithful with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. We are reminded that our wok in the here and now foreshadows a new kind of redeemed work after Jesus returns. And here’s a great challenge that Chris presents: we have the opportunity to anticipate that future time by modelling it in the present and living it now for the glory of God and service to humanity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWe are called to be kingdom people in our workplaces – and in whatever we do, to work at it with all our hearts, as working for the Lord. Having a God-given sense of purpose in our days is essential if we are to live fulfilled lives. This book offers helpful pointers to living a purposeful life and is a great addition to the library of all who are seeking to be faithful, fruitful and fulfilled in their workplaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eDavid Steinegger holds a number of non-executive positions, is a people builder, a church leader, and a trustee of several charities, including Wycliffe Bible Translators UK, which he chairs.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 21.07.24. Review by Eve Poole\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis new book on work from Chris Gillies benefits from his lifetime of working in the financial-services sector. He has spent more than 40 years in finance, working in many different markets, particularly for Zurich Insurance; and has more than 30 years’ experience as a board member of various charities, including the Children’s Society and the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. His book synthesises his own rich experience of work with his research and with perspectives from the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eWhat sold the book to me was that it was described as 'quite simply the best book I have read about the interrelationship between Christian faith and our working lives for a very long time' by Richard Higginson. As the founder of Faith in Business, he is the oracle in this field, because he has read every book ever written on the subject. So, on this glowing recommendation, I dived straight in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe book itself is very readable, with a handy summary section and points for reflection at each chapter end. Part I focuses on the basics, such as using the Bible, addressing selfishness, being fruitful, and the need to keep a focus on God’s work throughout. Part II covers “Biblical role models” from Joseph to Jesus, and profiles forgotten heroes, such as Boaz as the model employer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePart III tackles a range of knotty topics, from money to ethical decision-making, in which my favourite chapter was on “Balancing the Big Five”. It asks some sharp questions about work-life balance. His Big Five are: time with God, time with family, work time (paid or unpaid), time building community, and time for rest, leisure, and exercise. He encourages readers to analyse how they are spending their time across these activities, to identify where time spent may be out of kilter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI also really appreciated his wise words on vocation: 'the key to finding your special God-given calling is to loosen your grip on the idea that God is calling you to do a specific job.' Charles Eve once called this yearning for the certainty of a highlighted job advert our desire to 'grab the steering wheel' instead of letting God drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies likewise reminds us to look with soft eyes on the totality of our mission in life, to discern where our work and any particular job fits into the whole. Given that the world of work these days is very non-linear, this is sage advice. At the end of the book, Gillies recommends that we make use of a period of retreat to take stock of our work, to recommit ourselves to our vocation in its totality, and to listen for what God might be saying to us about what we should do next.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eDr Eve Poole writes on theology, economics, and leadership.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCPAS Lead on newsletter review June 2024. Review by Mike Duff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSt Paul charges the Philippians, as citizens of heaven, to live utterly different lives to the Roman citizens around them. With 30 years' experience in top-level corporate leadership, Chris Gillies delivers the same powerful challenge to Christians immersed in the culture of their working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e'The idea God was as interested in my work as he was in the way I did church... that God might have work for me to do at my workplace didn't really occur to me. My understanding of why God mattered to my daily work was virtually non-existent.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAs at home in the Bible as the workplace, Chris addresses this autobiographical question through four basic themes: how it all started; the problem of selfishness; what it means to be fruitful; where we are heading. Elements of the salvation story are carefully worked out as they apply not in church, home or individual discipleship but in our working life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNext, he explores with penetrating insight some obvious biblical role models - Joseph, Jethro, Daniel and others - and less obviously how Jesus approached his own redeeming work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe longest section applies biblical discipleship themes to the workplace: What is the prevailing workplace worldview and how might we confront and change it? Am I in the right job? How can we do we do the right thing and adopt a godly lifestyle amid pressures to conform? How do we balance the major claims on our time when work demands everything? How would Jesus have us handle money and lead others? What is our true reward for working well?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePreachers will recognise in this outstanding resource many familiar insights but applied with a clarity, insight and authority ew will have achieved. Those whose work is outside the church will find themselves challenged by God's intimate and relentless concern with their working life. Church leaders will be given a profound insight into the world of work and how to shape the life of the church so that it connects with this vital 'frontline'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Mike Duff, CPAS Patronage Secretary\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRichard Frost, writer and blogger: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. 1 June 2024\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBooks providing a Christian perspective on work can at times feel as rare as hearing a sermon on the topic. So, Chris Gillies' offering is a welcome contribution and one which I looked forward to reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI spent most of my professional career helping people with their work and also supporting businesses and organisations in caring for staff. I even wrote a book about it myself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eChris Gillies brings a wealth of experience from senior management positions in financial sector businesses and charitable organisations. This, combined with insight from his faith and biblical knowledge, and observations from others (most notably Mark Greene, well known for his own work in this field) provides a strong base on which to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGillies explores the nature of work from Genesis through Old Testament examples such as Joseph and Daniel and the core characteristics Jesus demonstrates for us to aspire to. The author also includes a number of examples of businesses adopting a godly approach towards people, practice and profit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIts pages are full of well-rehearsed biblical insights and familiar business-speak which will resonate particularly with those with similar faith perspectives and senior leadership experience. For this reviewer, I would have liked to have seen more content which relates to the vast majority of those who find themselves on the way to work: the ones who don't occupy well-paid, high-level, influential roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNevertheless, for those who wish to explore this important aspect of life (and one which, for many, occupies a considerable amount of it of it) it is a thought-provoking read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, a former employment specialist, and the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/richardfrostauthor.com\/\"\u003efour other books\u003c\/a\u003e. Richard writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\" data-mce-href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks for Today April 2024. Paul Beasley-Murray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eOn the way to work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfilment \u003c\/em\u003eby Chris Gillies, who is the treasurer of the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, is intended for all those who are at work, to help them live out their faith Mondays to Fridays. Divided into three parts, the first section is entitled ‘From a garden to a city’; the second looks at some of the Old Testament heroes and goes on to reflect on Jesus and how Christians today have sought to implement the teaching of Jesus in the workplace; while the third section deals with some is very down-to-earth issues such as how hard we should we work along with money matters. At the end of each chapter there’s a summary of the key principles. This is a good book for ministers to commend to their people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"line-height: 150%; -ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; margin: 7.5pt 0cm 7.5pt 0cm;\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"more-8148\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; color: #202020;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/paulbeasleymurray.us12.list-manage.com\/track\/click?u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=802455cdc0\u0026amp;e=3cc647e01f\" data-mce-style=\"-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: 'Helvetica',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos; color: #007c89;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
On the Way to Work: A Christian approach to thinking differently about success and fulfillment
£12.99
Digital eBook Only - Does your work give you a sense of purpose? How do you feel when work serves...
{"id":14779524055420,"title":"Engaging the Word","handle":"engaging-the-word-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePeter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or meditating on the word as it should, and therefore is spiritually malnourished and failing to thrive. Engaging the Word will transform the Bible engagement habits of Christian disciples, improving the health of the church by opening up new opportunities for drawing on God's word and new life as a result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word sets out what biblical literacy means and what it looks like in our contemporary culture, exploring the benefits of biblical literacy for those who follow Jesus and for Christian leaders as local theologians and preachers. It also presents a series of practical explorations of the role of the Bible, which help us to reach up to God, reach in to develop our own identity in Christ and reach out to others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Bible and the word of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBiblical literacy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe mediated Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscipleship and the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching up: spirituality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching in: congregational well-being\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching out: engaging the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a gift of a book! Peter Phillips seems to hold out the Bible to us afresh, drawing us back to the power and grace of the word of God. In this accessible book, he brings vast learning and deep understanding to explore our modern Christian engagement with the Bible. There is challenge and insight for all here, and those who read it will come out enriched, challenged, and inspired to re-engage more deeply with God's word. I shall be recommending this to everyone!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Tanner, Bishop of Berwick \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis thought-provoking book explores the question of what place the Bible does and should have in Christian discipleship. It combines helpful in-depth thinking with an easy to read accessible style and is well worth a read for anyone reflecting on patterns of Christian discipleship in the 21st century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder Theologian in Residence at the Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book Pete Philips takes seriously God, the church and the Bible. In doing so there is a challenge for each us as we face the most pressing question facing the church today - how do we share our experience of God? Pete offers grounded ways in which the Good News can be encountered afresh and offered to the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gareth Powell Secretary of the Methodist Conference \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word is a must for individual disciples and Christian communities. Here in this book, Pete Phillips uses theology, history and practical wisdom to show why. From the first disciples to the digital disciples of the 21st century there is much to learn.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Wilkinson, The Principal, St Johns College, Durham University \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/PeterPhillips_480x480.jpg?v=1676496974\" width=\"269\" height=\"359\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Peter Phillips is a Methodist minister and Director of CODEC, a research centre housed at St John's College, Durham University. For many years, he served as New Testament Tutor on the staff of Cliff College. He has a great interest in the New Testament and in communicating the faith in a digital age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach Magazine (Summer 2018). Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo save readers from becoming stressed by trying to understand the subtitle, Peter has very helpfully opened his introduction with the words: 'This book is about the relationship between the reading of the Bible and following Jesus'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he asks the question, 'Can we be better Christians by engaging more with the Bible?' The fundamental purpose of the bible is surely to inspire mere mortals to aspire to be more like our Saviour and to follow in his footsteps. The problem comes because many people are unfamiliar with biblical language, as it is couched in terms not in everyday use. Hence the purpose of this book is to understand what the Bible is really about, and how we should use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is a call to action. It looks at how, by engaging with the Bible, our understanding of our journey in the Christian life will be transformed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are similar books which seek to achieve the same objectives, mainly by exhorting their readers to follow the instructions laid down in the Bible. This book is different, and to some may seem to be controversial. It argues that the Bible is not a rule book or instruction manual, rather it is a guide to enable followers to 'crank up' their own engines of Christian discipleship, with a few additives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book explores biblical literacy (engagement with the Word of God) and discipleship (engagement with the world). This is not surprising as Peter was a tutor at Cliff College, and among his other 'duties' was encouraging students to engage with the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe uses examples of the writings of Augustine, Aldred and Erasmus, as well as the way in which mystery plays have helped people understand biblical stories. Being a Methodist, it would be remiss of Peter not to have included passages written by John Wesley too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also explores what it means to engage with the Word of God in a world where contemporary communication is focused on the digital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-written, readable book which provides practical advice to those reading the Bible who want to put what they have read to practical use in the world. It is in itself 'engaging' and very worthwhile reading,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine (February 2018). Review by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat place does the Bible have in renewing Christian witness in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century? This book has two basic premises. First, biblical literacy has declined, resulting not only in a lack of biblical knowledge but also in an inability to identify the biblical references which are deeply embedded in western culture. Second, biblical literacy comes not through reading in isolation alone but by reading with others in prayerful discernment of God's address to us today. The first claim is supported by survey findings and, if true - the author suggests - renders the church impotent. The second is supported by appealing to theologians - including Wesley, Bonhoeffer, von Balthasar and Hauerwas - and it inspires the proclamation of the gospel in deed as well as in word. It also results in 'noticing the presence of the word everywhere we look'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristianity, the author argues, possesses a message that cannot be jettisoned in favour of a superficial appeal to the contemporary zeitgeist. Phillips reminds us of the need for shared community values, inspired by the collective hearing of God's word, rather than any quest for personal fulfilment alone. Only this, Phillips believes, can offer redemption to a world increasingly characterised by narratives of destruction through terrorism, violence, displacement, isolation and fragmentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders might feel they know much of this. They might regret that advice on practical implementation comes rather late, and is, perhaps, a little muted. But as the United Reformed Church moves forward with its vision of missional discipleship and its 'Walking the Way: Living the life of Jesus today' emphasis, this book might offer a challenge and an inspiration, as well as a resource, to proclaim the Gospel afresh in our day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy (blogger)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm reviewing a book by a former lecturer and friend, Peter Phillips, known by many as the Director of CODEC in Durham. This book blends two passions of Pete's that I share - biblical literacy and Christian discipleship. \u003cem\u003eEngaging the Word: Biblical literacy and Christian discipleship\u003c\/em\u003e is a hidden gem of a book, bringing together Pete's wide learning, statistics, and a fierce commitment to the Bible. This is a book well worth reading - and spending time with. This book helpfully does three things - gives us a potted understanding of what the Bible is, who is reading it, and why it matters. Let me start with a quote, slightly shortened:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003eThe Bible, Webster said, is 'the vessel which bears God's majestic presence'. Recall too that Augustine had used a similar image: 'Scripture is the vehicle that God provides for us to travel to our true home along the road established by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In the Bible, God comes to address us, to invite us into relationship with him.\u003c\/em\u003e''\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePete begins with a couple of great chapters - The Bible and the word of God and Biblical literacy - that serve as a sort of roadmap for where he's coming from. Throughout both of these chapters, there is a real excitement about the Bible, and the possibilities that come in the Christian life from reading and engaging with it. Pete calls the Bible 'the engine for Christian discipleship', and this is a really helpful image in my mind. Of course, the Bible is more than this (but surely not less than this), and Pete walks us through this and three other understandings of what the Bible 'is'. Having given us a sense of what the Bible is, we turn to the tricky concept of biblical literacy, and without spoiling the book his suggestions are thoroughgoingly Trinitarian, church-oriented and dynamic. This is not just head knowledge - the Bible challenges Christian disciples to be transformed - and this is made clear throughout. Having set the scene with two very helpful chapters (the first is a brilliant explanation in reasonably normal English as to what the Bible is, the latter distilling a complex discussion into a simple output), Pete moves on to two chapters about the way we use the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter three, 'The mediated Bible'\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eis a careful look at how Christians (and others) have engaged with the Bible over time. Pete walks us through a sort of print time machine, looking at key folk in church history and how they engaged with the Bible. We think about 'The Didache' (an early Christian text), Augustine, Aldred, the mystery plays, Erasmus, and Wesley. This chapter makes for an intriguing overview, helping today's reader to root practices of Bible engagement in the past, and also providing food for thought in the way we might approach the Bible today. Chapter four, 'Discipleship and the Bible', is one of the best bits of recent writing on that topic that I've read. Rooted in the words of the Bible, and taking the imagery of the Disciples on the way to Emmaus, Pete makes a strong and passionate case for not just having the Bible as a central part of our discipleship, but thinking about soaking ourselves in it, marinating in it like meat before cooking. With helpful lessons from von Balthasar and Bonhoeffer, Pete encourages us to move from passive to active faith, with the Bible as a key part of that. With this in mind, we readers approach the final part of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final three chapters of 'Engaging the Word' cover the three aspects of discipleship that Pete wants to bring the Bible to bear on: reaching up (spirituality), reaching in (congregational well-being) and reaching out (engaging the world). Key to all of this - and a theme that comes through throughout the book - is community. Or, as Pete puts it, quoting Stanley Hauerwas;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003e'\u003c\/em\u003eA place where God is forming a family out of strangers'. That language resonates with the models of discipleship from Bonhoeffer and von Balthasar: the sense that we become disciples by sharing together in small groups, in communities, learning from one another, becoming friends and family, as we eat and drink and be together. Learning through open commensality, by opening ourselves up to one another and allowing God's word to\u003cem\u003e soak us in his presence\u003c\/em\u003e' From this place - this Bible-drenched community - flows the outpouring of discipleship. Woven in amongst these final three chapters is a deeply biblical emphasis on community and doing the stuff of the Kingdom of God - with some helpful practical suggestions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, then, this is a brilliant book. Pete wears his learning lightly, brings together statistics and concepts in a way that makes a lot of sense, and offers us some excellent practical suggestions. If, like me, you are about to start (or do already) leading a small group, this is a great book to read to shape your thinking. If you are interested in Biblical literacy, or what Christians think of the Bible, then this is a book that is well worth reading. For those involved in church leadership of any kind, even if it feels more practical and less Bible-y than you might like, this is a helpful book to remind us where the engine is, how it works, and why we need to use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy.\u003c\/em\u003e https:\/\/www.thomascreedy.com\/book-review-engaging-the-word\/\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:32:52+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:31:48+00:00","vendor":"Peter M. Phillips","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For churches","Glassboxx","Mission","Oct-17"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604757012860,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465863","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Engaging the Word - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":201,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465863","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001501565308,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/275.png?v=1730980385","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486819708,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/276.png?v=1730980325","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePeter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or meditating on the word as it should, and therefore is spiritually malnourished and failing to thrive. Engaging the Word will transform the Bible engagement habits of Christian disciples, improving the health of the church by opening up new opportunities for drawing on God's word and new life as a result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word sets out what biblical literacy means and what it looks like in our contemporary culture, exploring the benefits of biblical literacy for those who follow Jesus and for Christian leaders as local theologians and preachers. It also presents a series of practical explorations of the role of the Bible, which help us to reach up to God, reach in to develop our own identity in Christ and reach out to others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Bible and the word of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBiblical literacy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe mediated Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscipleship and the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching up: spirituality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching in: congregational well-being\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReaching out: engaging the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a gift of a book! Peter Phillips seems to hold out the Bible to us afresh, drawing us back to the power and grace of the word of God. In this accessible book, he brings vast learning and deep understanding to explore our modern Christian engagement with the Bible. There is challenge and insight for all here, and those who read it will come out enriched, challenged, and inspired to re-engage more deeply with God's word. I shall be recommending this to everyone!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Tanner, Bishop of Berwick \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis thought-provoking book explores the question of what place the Bible does and should have in Christian discipleship. It combines helpful in-depth thinking with an easy to read accessible style and is well worth a read for anyone reflecting on patterns of Christian discipleship in the 21st century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Paula Gooder Theologian in Residence at the Bible Society \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book Pete Philips takes seriously God, the church and the Bible. In doing so there is a challenge for each us as we face the most pressing question facing the church today - how do we share our experience of God? Pete offers grounded ways in which the Good News can be encountered afresh and offered to the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Gareth Powell Secretary of the Methodist Conference \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEngaging the Word is a must for individual disciples and Christian communities. Here in this book, Pete Phillips uses theology, history and practical wisdom to show why. From the first disciples to the digital disciples of the 21st century there is much to learn.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Wilkinson, The Principal, St Johns College, Durham University \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/PeterPhillips_480x480.jpg?v=1676496974\" width=\"269\" height=\"359\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Dr Peter Phillips is a Methodist minister and Director of CODEC, a research centre housed at St John's College, Durham University. For many years, he served as New Testament Tutor on the staff of Cliff College. He has a great interest in the New Testament and in communicating the faith in a digital age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach Magazine (Summer 2018). Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo save readers from becoming stressed by trying to understand the subtitle, Peter has very helpfully opened his introduction with the words: 'This book is about the relationship between the reading of the Bible and following Jesus'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLater he asks the question, 'Can we be better Christians by engaging more with the Bible?' The fundamental purpose of the bible is surely to inspire mere mortals to aspire to be more like our Saviour and to follow in his footsteps. The problem comes because many people are unfamiliar with biblical language, as it is couched in terms not in everyday use. Hence the purpose of this book is to understand what the Bible is really about, and how we should use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is a call to action. It looks at how, by engaging with the Bible, our understanding of our journey in the Christian life will be transformed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are similar books which seek to achieve the same objectives, mainly by exhorting their readers to follow the instructions laid down in the Bible. This book is different, and to some may seem to be controversial. It argues that the Bible is not a rule book or instruction manual, rather it is a guide to enable followers to 'crank up' their own engines of Christian discipleship, with a few additives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book explores biblical literacy (engagement with the Word of God) and discipleship (engagement with the world). This is not surprising as Peter was a tutor at Cliff College, and among his other 'duties' was encouraging students to engage with the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe uses examples of the writings of Augustine, Aldred and Erasmus, as well as the way in which mystery plays have helped people understand biblical stories. Being a Methodist, it would be remiss of Peter not to have included passages written by John Wesley too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also explores what it means to engage with the Word of God in a world where contemporary communication is focused on the digital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-written, readable book which provides practical advice to those reading the Bible who want to put what they have read to practical use in the world. It is in itself 'engaging' and very worthwhile reading,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform Magazine (February 2018). Review by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat place does the Bible have in renewing Christian witness in the 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century? This book has two basic premises. First, biblical literacy has declined, resulting not only in a lack of biblical knowledge but also in an inability to identify the biblical references which are deeply embedded in western culture. Second, biblical literacy comes not through reading in isolation alone but by reading with others in prayerful discernment of God's address to us today. The first claim is supported by survey findings and, if true - the author suggests - renders the church impotent. The second is supported by appealing to theologians - including Wesley, Bonhoeffer, von Balthasar and Hauerwas - and it inspires the proclamation of the gospel in deed as well as in word. It also results in 'noticing the presence of the word everywhere we look'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristianity, the author argues, possesses a message that cannot be jettisoned in favour of a superficial appeal to the contemporary zeitgeist. Phillips reminds us of the need for shared community values, inspired by the collective hearing of God's word, rather than any quest for personal fulfilment alone. Only this, Phillips believes, can offer redemption to a world increasingly characterised by narratives of destruction through terrorism, violence, displacement, isolation and fragmentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders might feel they know much of this. They might regret that advice on practical implementation comes rather late, and is, perhaps, a little muted. But as the United Reformed Church moves forward with its vision of missional discipleship and its 'Walking the Way: Living the life of Jesus today' emphasis, this book might offer a challenge and an inspiration, as well as a resource, to proclaim the Gospel afresh in our day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Robert Pope, Director of Studies in Church History and Doctrine at Westminster College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy (blogger)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm reviewing a book by a former lecturer and friend, Peter Phillips, known by many as the Director of CODEC in Durham. This book blends two passions of Pete's that I share - biblical literacy and Christian discipleship. \u003cem\u003eEngaging the Word: Biblical literacy and Christian discipleship\u003c\/em\u003e is a hidden gem of a book, bringing together Pete's wide learning, statistics, and a fierce commitment to the Bible. This is a book well worth reading - and spending time with. This book helpfully does three things - gives us a potted understanding of what the Bible is, who is reading it, and why it matters. Let me start with a quote, slightly shortened:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003eThe Bible, Webster said, is 'the vessel which bears God's majestic presence'. Recall too that Augustine had used a similar image: 'Scripture is the vehicle that God provides for us to travel to our true home along the road established by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. In the Bible, God comes to address us, to invite us into relationship with him.\u003c\/em\u003e''\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePete begins with a couple of great chapters - The Bible and the word of God and Biblical literacy - that serve as a sort of roadmap for where he's coming from. Throughout both of these chapters, there is a real excitement about the Bible, and the possibilities that come in the Christian life from reading and engaging with it. Pete calls the Bible 'the engine for Christian discipleship', and this is a really helpful image in my mind. Of course, the Bible is more than this (but surely not less than this), and Pete walks us through this and three other understandings of what the Bible 'is'. Having given us a sense of what the Bible is, we turn to the tricky concept of biblical literacy, and without spoiling the book his suggestions are thoroughgoingly Trinitarian, church-oriented and dynamic. This is not just head knowledge - the Bible challenges Christian disciples to be transformed - and this is made clear throughout. Having set the scene with two very helpful chapters (the first is a brilliant explanation in reasonably normal English as to what the Bible is, the latter distilling a complex discussion into a simple output), Pete moves on to two chapters about the way we use the Bible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter three, 'The mediated Bible'\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eis a careful look at how Christians (and others) have engaged with the Bible over time. Pete walks us through a sort of print time machine, looking at key folk in church history and how they engaged with the Bible. We think about 'The Didache' (an early Christian text), Augustine, Aldred, the mystery plays, Erasmus, and Wesley. This chapter makes for an intriguing overview, helping today's reader to root practices of Bible engagement in the past, and also providing food for thought in the way we might approach the Bible today. Chapter four, 'Discipleship and the Bible', is one of the best bits of recent writing on that topic that I've read. Rooted in the words of the Bible, and taking the imagery of the Disciples on the way to Emmaus, Pete makes a strong and passionate case for not just having the Bible as a central part of our discipleship, but thinking about soaking ourselves in it, marinating in it like meat before cooking. With helpful lessons from von Balthasar and Bonhoeffer, Pete encourages us to move from passive to active faith, with the Bible as a key part of that. With this in mind, we readers approach the final part of the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final three chapters of 'Engaging the Word' cover the three aspects of discipleship that Pete wants to bring the Bible to bear on: reaching up (spirituality), reaching in (congregational well-being) and reaching out (engaging the world). Key to all of this - and a theme that comes through throughout the book - is community. Or, as Pete puts it, quoting Stanley Hauerwas;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'\u003cem\u003e'\u003c\/em\u003eA place where God is forming a family out of strangers'. That language resonates with the models of discipleship from Bonhoeffer and von Balthasar: the sense that we become disciples by sharing together in small groups, in communities, learning from one another, becoming friends and family, as we eat and drink and be together. Learning through open commensality, by opening ourselves up to one another and allowing God's word to\u003cem\u003e soak us in his presence\u003c\/em\u003e' From this place - this Bible-drenched community - flows the outpouring of discipleship. Woven in amongst these final three chapters is a deeply biblical emphasis on community and doing the stuff of the Kingdom of God - with some helpful practical suggestions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, then, this is a brilliant book. Pete wears his learning lightly, brings together statistics and concepts in a way that makes a lot of sense, and offers us some excellent practical suggestions. If, like me, you are about to start (or do already) leading a small group, this is a great book to read to shape your thinking. If you are interested in Biblical literacy, or what Christians think of the Bible, then this is a book that is well worth reading. For those involved in church leadership of any kind, even if it feels more practical and less Bible-y than you might like, this is a helpful book to remind us where the engine is, how it works, and why we need to use it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Thomas Creedy.\u003c\/em\u003e https:\/\/www.thomascreedy.com\/book-review-engaging-the-word\/\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Engaging the Word
£7.99
Digital eBook Only - Peter Phillips is convinced that the church in the West is not devouring the Bible or...
{"id":14779461534076,"title":"Changing the Climate: Applying the Bible in a climate emergency","handle":"changing-the-climate-applying-the-bible-in-a-climate-emergency-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA series of Bible passages unpacked to show the Bible’s relevance to environmentalism, and how we can all play our part in limiting the negative effects of climate change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe climate crisis is one of the most important issues of our time, threatening lives and livelihoods. The Bible teaches us that God the creator put humans on the Earth to take care of it; to show love to all, and to care for the poor and vulnerable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the twelve chapters looks at a particular Bible passage, connects it with climate action, poses questions and suggests practical steps that can be taken.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Hawkerfamily1_480x480.jpg?v=1676496058\" width=\"216\" height=\"337\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hawkers are a Christian family who are taking action for climate justice. Psychologists Debbie and David Hawker work with Tearfund and other campaign organisations. Their teenage son Jamie also campaigns on climate issues and is part of the ‘Green Agents of Change’ initiative within the Methodist Church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePraise for \u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I wish this book had been available when my children were younger! It’s wise and informative yet wonderfully easy to read. It moves from the biblical to the practical, the local to the global, making the complex simple and succeeding in both being deeply challenging yet also life-affirming and hope-giving.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Dr Dave Bookless, director of theology, A Rocha International and author of \u003cem\u003ePlanetwise\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Challenging, engaging and practical, this is a wonderful resource to journey through either individually or as a family. It provides all sort of ideas of how you can make a difference, and solid reasoning for the urgency of doing so. Read it and live it!’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Guillebaud, author, speaker and international director for Great Lakes Outreach \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Jamie, Debbie and David have written a comprehensive and practical guide to help us navigate our way through the choices and complexities of living more lightly on the planet. I love the tips and links, the quotes, the clear and challenging Bible studies, and the deep dives into the science and theology. This is one of the best and most accessible books I have read on \u003cem\u003ewhy\u003c\/em\u003e Christians should care about climate change, and \u003cem\u003ewhat\u003c\/em\u003e we can do about it. This is a book to be read and shared with your family, friends and church.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaroline Pomeroy, director, Climate Stewards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I love the fact that this book is global, intergenerational and intersectional in its scope, while still remaining accessible and full of hope. It presents a robust, biblical case for the need for Christians to engage with the work of climate justice and offers small and large ways in which this can happen. Most importantly, it provides a platform to hear from and celebrate young people who are striving to make a difference.’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLynne Norman, Methodist children, youth and family team\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Hawker family takes on climate change! Biblical insights drive them to take action on one of the most urgent issues of our time. This book is packed with hints and tips about how YOU can make a difference.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Martin Hodson, author, Oxford University lecturer and Principal Tutor for Christian Rural and Environmental Studies (CRES). \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘So often we hear the question, “But what can we do, and what if it doesn’t make a difference?” This easy-to-read book offers a guide to faith-filled, faithful action undertaken as part of our discipleship. Highly recommend.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Mander, on behalf of Young Christian Climate Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a remarkable, timely book on a fundamental remit of all Christians. As it takes a multilevel approach, from initial ideas to complex changes, it is really accessible to people of all ages and experiences. The mixture of stories, Bible studies, statistics and next steps keeps it readable and relatable. As a missionary, minister and parent who has home-educated for years, I can see so many uses for this resource – personal study\/challenge, family devotion, small group project, educational material – and I highly recommend it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHannah Prosser, Assemblies of God GB mission team\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is a wonderfully rich, engaging resource for meaningfully exploring and practically responding to one of \u003cem\u003ethe\u003c\/em\u003e most pressing issues of our time. It facilitates intergenerational reflection on a wide diversity of environmental concerns in ways that are informative and interesting, considered yet challenging, and bold while biblical. Jamie’s (very helpful) tips at the end of each chapter have really motivated our family to up our game in terms of creation care engagement!’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard and Louisa Evans,\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEn Route Course facilitators, All Nations Christian College, UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Weaving together biblical insight, creative and accessible suggestions for taking action, and stories sourced from around the globe, this is rich resource for Christians of all ages wanting to engage with the climate crisis. Highly recommended.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJo Swinney, head of communications, A Rocha International\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘As well as this work being packed with practical suggestions on what to do about climate change, it is refreshing to find biblical reflection on the environment which focuses not on the classically obvious passages about stewardship and respect for creation, but on many Bible texts which one would not normally associate with our responsibility towards the created world, such as the story of Jonah and the parable of the good Samaritan. This leads to such challenging questions as ‘Who is my neighbour in the climate emergency?’ Written by a mother who has not driven for 20 years, a father known as the Cycling Psychologist and a son who wants to be a train driver, this book brings lessons from those who know what they are talking about.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Greenwood, Baptist Missionary Society World Mission, overseas team leader for South America and Sub-Saharan Africa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate\u003c\/em\u003e is a comprehensive, challenging and highly practical book that uses the Bible well with latest scientific evidence stating the case for us all to be more engaged in addressing climate change. The chapters are easily accessible, offering practical tips of things we can do to embrace creation care, interspersed with contemporary global examples where people and nations are suffering because of the current crisis they are experiencing. With space for personal reflection throughout, this book will help individuals, groups and families learn, adapt and change their behaviours as together we tackle one of the key issues of our time.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhil, director, AWM-Pioneers \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The book challenges its readers to engage both spiritually and factually with one of the biggest challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Its clever, interactive and logical style makes it attractive to all ages. I enjoyed that each chapter was divided into sections. This made it easier to read and also easier to refer back to as needed. I really enjoyed Jamie’s tips, which are full of interesting facts and easy steps that anyone can take as they journey to make their lifestyle more environmentally friendly. A very enjoyable and informative read.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimone Formolo-Lockyer, Latin Link\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘An extremely thoughtful, well-written yet practical book. Accessible and useful for all ages of your family and your church. It relates having a Christian faith to taking an action on climate change. If you are a Christian (or even if you are not!) and you’d like to know what \u003cem\u003eyou\u003c\/em\u003e can actually do to help save our planet – then this is the book for you.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Jackson, youth leader\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Roger Day\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNearly 50 years ago as a young Christian journalist I was involved in writing about Christians living more simply, being less wasteful and finding joy in God’s beautiful earth. It was for a substantial section in \u003cem\u003eCrusade\u003c\/em\u003e magazine, produced by a group of us within the Evangelical Alliance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow, all these decades later, Christians are yet again facing up to managing waste, reducing their carbon footprint and helping to save the planet. This time it’s become a genuine emergency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis powerful book explores climate change and the need for action in clearly written sections: The problem; Why we should act; What we can do. Within each of these three sections there are chapters on such issues as Want, Hope in action, A time to plant and Mustard seeds (and young people) matter. Each chapter starts with two or three Bible passages and includes a brilliant section for deeper thinkers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie and David Hawker are well respected psychologists with doctorates in the subject. Instead of producing an intellectual book, they have written in a clear, easy to understand style. Children and young people as well as adults are likely to find the book accessible as well as helpful and challenging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe third contributor is David and Debbie’s 14-year-old son, Jamie. At the end of each chapter there is a section called ‘Jamie’s tips’. He also writes a glossary of terms at the end of the book. His ideas are thoughtful and easily understood. Jamie is a fan of Greta Thunberg, the climate activist. Like her, he has been involved in actions for climate change. As a result of his efforts for the environment, his Christian family caught the enthusiasm and are now vocal advocates for such change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis excellent book is great for use by individuals, families and church groups. It will be ideal for parents, teachers in primary and secondary schools and Christian youth leaders. It contains plenty of important scientific facts and has a comprehensive appendix on ways to understand climate change. Hopefully it will help to counter the fake news circulating in some Christian circles that climate change isn’t true. Sadly, a book with such detailed material lacks an index.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI strongly recommend \u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate.\u003c\/em\u003e It’s a very useful tool for people who have a deep concern about the future of our planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Day, retired psychotherapist and play therapist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWendy Bebbington, creative director of Newenglish design agency\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'This is an easy to read book, clearly laid out - I'm reading it just for me, but can see how good it would be to use in groups. I love that teenager Jamie has taken some really smart actions that are inspiring me to think differently. It is packed with information and links that help me feel I can make changes and do things that will make a difference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really like how they intertwine the bible into the whole book in a way that is very natural and gives a fresh look at how we care for God's planet'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr. Joel Callow, Zero Carbon Building Engineer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat an excellent guide for Christians wrestling with this most serious of modern subjects. Rooted in a clear-thinking, biblical world view, the Hawker family has a refreshingly positive and hopeful take on responding to climate change. They present the difficult reality without pulling their punches, illuminate this from the bible, then move on to practical steps we can take to make the future better than the present. Having read this for myself, I am now looking forward to reading it with my teenage children, and to choosing which of the many excellent charities they recommend to support as a family. Thank you Hawkers for writing a book of hope in challenging times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/jri.org.uk\/hannah-gray-reviews-changing-the-climate-by-debbie-david-and-jamie-hawker\/\"\u003eThe John Rae Initiative (JRI) blog\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Hannah Gray, June 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a straight-talking, down-to-earth book written by a married couple and their teenage son. Debbie and David Hawker are psychologists who work with mission organisations and their son, Jamie, is a teenage climate activist. The book has two subtitles ‘Applying the Bible in a climate emergency’ and ‘A resource for families and churches’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter profiles a different Christian charity working to alleviate the effects of climate change amongst vulnerable communities around the world and highlights an inspiring testimony from a young climate activist in diverse cultures and contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese real-life stories feature along the way, as the authors take the reader on a journey from the roots of the climate emergency, through the creation care narrative of the Bible, to the call for all Christians to wake up to the urgency and scale of action required. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eApplying the Bible in a climate emergency\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe writers frame the climate emergency problem around our spiritual condition, beginning Part 1 with two chapters (Waste and Want) that describe how our collective greed and wastefulness has created global environmental problems. In Part 2 they explain the Christian imperative for creation care, in four chapters organised around core Biblical themes of Faith, Love, Hope and Wisdom. The final section, Part 3 ‘What we can do?’, takes inspiration from scripture to suggest changes to travel and diet, to boost biodiversity, and to consider politics and protest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe whole book is grounded in scripture. Apparently, every book of the Bible is referenced somewhere in the text – but I will take their word for it! Each chapter begins with a Bible passage that has relevance to the topic addressed, and sometimes the authors offer a modern adaptation of the passage to suggest how it could read for society today. I found these climate-nuanced translations of familiar verses and parables particularly thought-provoking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is also grounded in science. Evidence is laid out from around the world to show how planet and people are suffering from climate change. The information is clear and accessible; the colourful diagrams, photos and ‘Did you know?’ boxes make the pages visually interesting as well as aiding comprehension. For those who want to dig deeper, there are boxes for ‘deep thinkers’, an appendix that explains the science of climate change, and another which sets out carbon emission and climate vulnerability data for different countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA resource for families and churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChanging the climate spells out the urgency of the environmental problems we are all facing, whilst also making a compelling biblical case to take action. Yet the greatest strength is the practical ideas and tips listed at the end of each chapter. They range from quick and easy changes (eg re-use wrapping paper, be vegetarian once a week) to the more challenging lifestyle choices like how we heat our homes and whether to take a no-fly pledge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall groups could effectively journey together through the book, discussing issues highlighted in the green question boxes that punctuate the text. There are videos and websites mentioned in Appendix D for extra content in group study settings. Each chapter finishes with a box to write what you will attempt to do in the next month. Being accountable in a small group should be an effective tool for embedding change. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA humble tone and a brave attitude\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tone is informative, without being preachy, and encouraging, without being naïve. Importantly, the authors are humble, sharing what they could have done differently and how even determined eco-warriors can always do more. They acknowledge that individual change will not be enough to combat the climate emergency; there needs to be system change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter ‘Moving mountains: large scale action’ bravely faces up to contentious topics like nuclear power and population growth – ‘\u003cem\u003ehaving one less child would reduce greenhouse gases 75 times more than adopting a vegan diet\u003c\/em\u003e’. The controversial group Extinction Rebellion (XR) features as well: ‘\u003cem\u003emembers of XR have upset people, but so did Gandhi, civil rights activists, suffragettes and Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e’. I think sometimes as Christians we tiptoe around these issues and I appreciate the refreshing assertiveness found throughout the text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book finishes with a reflection on 1 Corinthians 12, the Body of Christ, pointing out that some parts of the body are already suffering from climate change. They assert that each Christian needs to play their part towards a solution, whether that is praying, protesting, fundraising, innovating… what will your part be in fixing the climate emergency? This book offers plenty of inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Hannah Gray for JRI\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2022. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book by the Hawker family – two clinical psychologists and their 14 year old son – is marketed as a ‘resource for families and churches considering climate change’. The book is designed as a workbook with three parts – ‘The problem’, ‘Why we should act’ and ‘What can we do?’ It concludes with five reference appendices and a glossary. All twelve chapters follow similar formats – a relevant Bible passage, a brief exposition and space to record your response. Options for action are reviewed – Extinction Rebellion is mentioned with approval, though with a caveat regarding its ethos. ‘Deep thinkers’ sections offer further details with some practical tips the authors have used. A brief thematic prayer is followed by related input from an organisation involved in addressing issues raised in the chapter, which concludes with ‘Jamie’s 12 tips for action’ and space to record your response. Does the book achieve the authors’ aim? Will you find it useful? I think families may benefit from reading it but for active ministers, I am not so sure. However, one thing is certain with climate change – doing nothing is not an option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T09:05:37+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T09:04:22+00:00","vendor":"Debbie Hawker","type":"eBook","tags":["Environmental issues","Glassboxx","Jun-21","Mission"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604730306940,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390232","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Changing the Climate: Applying the Bible in a climate emergency - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":215,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390232","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/265.png?v=1730980393","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/266.png?v=1730980323"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/265.png?v=1730980393","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503400316,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/265.png?v=1730980393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/265.png?v=1730980393","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486328188,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/266.png?v=1730980323"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/266.png?v=1730980323","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA series of Bible passages unpacked to show the Bible’s relevance to environmentalism, and how we can all play our part in limiting the negative effects of climate change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe climate crisis is one of the most important issues of our time, threatening lives and livelihoods. The Bible teaches us that God the creator put humans on the Earth to take care of it; to show love to all, and to care for the poor and vulnerable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of the twelve chapters looks at a particular Bible passage, connects it with climate action, poses questions and suggests practical steps that can be taken.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/Hawkerfamily1_480x480.jpg?v=1676496058\" width=\"216\" height=\"337\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hawkers are a Christian family who are taking action for climate justice. Psychologists Debbie and David Hawker work with Tearfund and other campaign organisations. Their teenage son Jamie also campaigns on climate issues and is part of the ‘Green Agents of Change’ initiative within the Methodist Church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePraise for \u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I wish this book had been available when my children were younger! It’s wise and informative yet wonderfully easy to read. It moves from the biblical to the practical, the local to the global, making the complex simple and succeeding in both being deeply challenging yet also life-affirming and hope-giving.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Dr Dave Bookless, director of theology, A Rocha International and author of \u003cem\u003ePlanetwise\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Challenging, engaging and practical, this is a wonderful resource to journey through either individually or as a family. It provides all sort of ideas of how you can make a difference, and solid reasoning for the urgency of doing so. Read it and live it!’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimon Guillebaud, author, speaker and international director for Great Lakes Outreach \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Jamie, Debbie and David have written a comprehensive and practical guide to help us navigate our way through the choices and complexities of living more lightly on the planet. I love the tips and links, the quotes, the clear and challenging Bible studies, and the deep dives into the science and theology. This is one of the best and most accessible books I have read on \u003cem\u003ewhy\u003c\/em\u003e Christians should care about climate change, and \u003cem\u003ewhat\u003c\/em\u003e we can do about it. This is a book to be read and shared with your family, friends and church.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaroline Pomeroy, director, Climate Stewards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I love the fact that this book is global, intergenerational and intersectional in its scope, while still remaining accessible and full of hope. It presents a robust, biblical case for the need for Christians to engage with the work of climate justice and offers small and large ways in which this can happen. Most importantly, it provides a platform to hear from and celebrate young people who are striving to make a difference.’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLynne Norman, Methodist children, youth and family team\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The Hawker family takes on climate change! Biblical insights drive them to take action on one of the most urgent issues of our time. This book is packed with hints and tips about how YOU can make a difference.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr Martin Hodson, author, Oxford University lecturer and Principal Tutor for Christian Rural and Environmental Studies (CRES). \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘So often we hear the question, “But what can we do, and what if it doesn’t make a difference?” This easy-to-read book offers a guide to faith-filled, faithful action undertaken as part of our discipleship. Highly recommend.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRachel Mander, on behalf of Young Christian Climate Network\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This is a remarkable, timely book on a fundamental remit of all Christians. As it takes a multilevel approach, from initial ideas to complex changes, it is really accessible to people of all ages and experiences. The mixture of stories, Bible studies, statistics and next steps keeps it readable and relatable. As a missionary, minister and parent who has home-educated for years, I can see so many uses for this resource – personal study\/challenge, family devotion, small group project, educational material – and I highly recommend it.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHannah Prosser, Assemblies of God GB mission team\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘This book is a wonderfully rich, engaging resource for meaningfully exploring and practically responding to one of \u003cem\u003ethe\u003c\/em\u003e most pressing issues of our time. It facilitates intergenerational reflection on a wide diversity of environmental concerns in ways that are informative and interesting, considered yet challenging, and bold while biblical. Jamie’s (very helpful) tips at the end of each chapter have really motivated our family to up our game in terms of creation care engagement!’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard and Louisa Evans,\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEn Route Course facilitators, All Nations Christian College, UK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Weaving together biblical insight, creative and accessible suggestions for taking action, and stories sourced from around the globe, this is rich resource for Christians of all ages wanting to engage with the climate crisis. Highly recommended.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJo Swinney, head of communications, A Rocha International\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘As well as this work being packed with practical suggestions on what to do about climate change, it is refreshing to find biblical reflection on the environment which focuses not on the classically obvious passages about stewardship and respect for creation, but on many Bible texts which one would not normally associate with our responsibility towards the created world, such as the story of Jonah and the parable of the good Samaritan. This leads to such challenging questions as ‘Who is my neighbour in the climate emergency?’ Written by a mother who has not driven for 20 years, a father known as the Cycling Psychologist and a son who wants to be a train driver, this book brings lessons from those who know what they are talking about.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Greenwood, Baptist Missionary Society World Mission, overseas team leader for South America and Sub-Saharan Africa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate\u003c\/em\u003e is a comprehensive, challenging and highly practical book that uses the Bible well with latest scientific evidence stating the case for us all to be more engaged in addressing climate change. The chapters are easily accessible, offering practical tips of things we can do to embrace creation care, interspersed with contemporary global examples where people and nations are suffering because of the current crisis they are experiencing. With space for personal reflection throughout, this book will help individuals, groups and families learn, adapt and change their behaviours as together we tackle one of the key issues of our time.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhil, director, AWM-Pioneers \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘The book challenges its readers to engage both spiritually and factually with one of the biggest challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Its clever, interactive and logical style makes it attractive to all ages. I enjoyed that each chapter was divided into sections. This made it easier to read and also easier to refer back to as needed. I really enjoyed Jamie’s tips, which are full of interesting facts and easy steps that anyone can take as they journey to make their lifestyle more environmentally friendly. A very enjoyable and informative read.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimone Formolo-Lockyer, Latin Link\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘An extremely thoughtful, well-written yet practical book. Accessible and useful for all ages of your family and your church. It relates having a Christian faith to taking an action on climate change. If you are a Christian (or even if you are not!) and you’d like to know what \u003cem\u003eyou\u003c\/em\u003e can actually do to help save our planet – then this is the book for you.’ \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Jackson, youth leader\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Roger Day\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNearly 50 years ago as a young Christian journalist I was involved in writing about Christians living more simply, being less wasteful and finding joy in God’s beautiful earth. It was for a substantial section in \u003cem\u003eCrusade\u003c\/em\u003e magazine, produced by a group of us within the Evangelical Alliance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow, all these decades later, Christians are yet again facing up to managing waste, reducing their carbon footprint and helping to save the planet. This time it’s become a genuine emergency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis powerful book explores climate change and the need for action in clearly written sections: The problem; Why we should act; What we can do. Within each of these three sections there are chapters on such issues as Want, Hope in action, A time to plant and Mustard seeds (and young people) matter. Each chapter starts with two or three Bible passages and includes a brilliant section for deeper thinkers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebbie and David Hawker are well respected psychologists with doctorates in the subject. Instead of producing an intellectual book, they have written in a clear, easy to understand style. Children and young people as well as adults are likely to find the book accessible as well as helpful and challenging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe third contributor is David and Debbie’s 14-year-old son, Jamie. At the end of each chapter there is a section called ‘Jamie’s tips’. He also writes a glossary of terms at the end of the book. His ideas are thoughtful and easily understood. Jamie is a fan of Greta Thunberg, the climate activist. Like her, he has been involved in actions for climate change. As a result of his efforts for the environment, his Christian family caught the enthusiasm and are now vocal advocates for such change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis excellent book is great for use by individuals, families and church groups. It will be ideal for parents, teachers in primary and secondary schools and Christian youth leaders. It contains plenty of important scientific facts and has a comprehensive appendix on ways to understand climate change. Hopefully it will help to counter the fake news circulating in some Christian circles that climate change isn’t true. Sadly, a book with such detailed material lacks an index.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI strongly recommend \u003cem\u003eChanging the Climate.\u003c\/em\u003e It’s a very useful tool for people who have a deep concern about the future of our planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Day, retired psychotherapist and play therapist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWendy Bebbington, creative director of Newenglish design agency\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'This is an easy to read book, clearly laid out - I'm reading it just for me, but can see how good it would be to use in groups. I love that teenager Jamie has taken some really smart actions that are inspiring me to think differently. It is packed with information and links that help me feel I can make changes and do things that will make a difference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really like how they intertwine the bible into the whole book in a way that is very natural and gives a fresh look at how we care for God's planet'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDr. Joel Callow, Zero Carbon Building Engineer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat an excellent guide for Christians wrestling with this most serious of modern subjects. Rooted in a clear-thinking, biblical world view, the Hawker family has a refreshingly positive and hopeful take on responding to climate change. They present the difficult reality without pulling their punches, illuminate this from the bible, then move on to practical steps we can take to make the future better than the present. Having read this for myself, I am now looking forward to reading it with my teenage children, and to choosing which of the many excellent charities they recommend to support as a family. Thank you Hawkers for writing a book of hope in challenging times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/jri.org.uk\/hannah-gray-reviews-changing-the-climate-by-debbie-david-and-jamie-hawker\/\"\u003eThe John Rae Initiative (JRI) blog\u003c\/a\u003e. Review by Hannah Gray, June 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a straight-talking, down-to-earth book written by a married couple and their teenage son. Debbie and David Hawker are psychologists who work with mission organisations and their son, Jamie, is a teenage climate activist. The book has two subtitles ‘Applying the Bible in a climate emergency’ and ‘A resource for families and churches’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter profiles a different Christian charity working to alleviate the effects of climate change amongst vulnerable communities around the world and highlights an inspiring testimony from a young climate activist in diverse cultures and contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese real-life stories feature along the way, as the authors take the reader on a journey from the roots of the climate emergency, through the creation care narrative of the Bible, to the call for all Christians to wake up to the urgency and scale of action required. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eApplying the Bible in a climate emergency\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe writers frame the climate emergency problem around our spiritual condition, beginning Part 1 with two chapters (Waste and Want) that describe how our collective greed and wastefulness has created global environmental problems. In Part 2 they explain the Christian imperative for creation care, in four chapters organised around core Biblical themes of Faith, Love, Hope and Wisdom. The final section, Part 3 ‘What we can do?’, takes inspiration from scripture to suggest changes to travel and diet, to boost biodiversity, and to consider politics and protest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe whole book is grounded in scripture. Apparently, every book of the Bible is referenced somewhere in the text – but I will take their word for it! Each chapter begins with a Bible passage that has relevance to the topic addressed, and sometimes the authors offer a modern adaptation of the passage to suggest how it could read for society today. I found these climate-nuanced translations of familiar verses and parables particularly thought-provoking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is also grounded in science. Evidence is laid out from around the world to show how planet and people are suffering from climate change. The information is clear and accessible; the colourful diagrams, photos and ‘Did you know?’ boxes make the pages visually interesting as well as aiding comprehension. For those who want to dig deeper, there are boxes for ‘deep thinkers’, an appendix that explains the science of climate change, and another which sets out carbon emission and climate vulnerability data for different countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA resource for families and churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChanging the climate spells out the urgency of the environmental problems we are all facing, whilst also making a compelling biblical case to take action. Yet the greatest strength is the practical ideas and tips listed at the end of each chapter. They range from quick and easy changes (eg re-use wrapping paper, be vegetarian once a week) to the more challenging lifestyle choices like how we heat our homes and whether to take a no-fly pledge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall groups could effectively journey together through the book, discussing issues highlighted in the green question boxes that punctuate the text. There are videos and websites mentioned in Appendix D for extra content in group study settings. Each chapter finishes with a box to write what you will attempt to do in the next month. Being accountable in a small group should be an effective tool for embedding change. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA humble tone and a brave attitude\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tone is informative, without being preachy, and encouraging, without being naïve. Importantly, the authors are humble, sharing what they could have done differently and how even determined eco-warriors can always do more. They acknowledge that individual change will not be enough to combat the climate emergency; there needs to be system change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapter ‘Moving mountains: large scale action’ bravely faces up to contentious topics like nuclear power and population growth – ‘\u003cem\u003ehaving one less child would reduce greenhouse gases 75 times more than adopting a vegan diet\u003c\/em\u003e’. The controversial group Extinction Rebellion (XR) features as well: ‘\u003cem\u003emembers of XR have upset people, but so did Gandhi, civil rights activists, suffragettes and Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e’. I think sometimes as Christians we tiptoe around these issues and I appreciate the refreshing assertiveness found throughout the text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book finishes with a reflection on 1 Corinthians 12, the Body of Christ, pointing out that some parts of the body are already suffering from climate change. They assert that each Christian needs to play their part towards a solution, whether that is praying, protesting, fundraising, innovating… what will your part be in fixing the climate emergency? This book offers plenty of inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Hannah Gray for JRI\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry, winter 2022. Review by Roger Thornington\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book by the Hawker family – two clinical psychologists and their 14 year old son – is marketed as a ‘resource for families and churches considering climate change’. The book is designed as a workbook with three parts – ‘The problem’, ‘Why we should act’ and ‘What can we do?’ It concludes with five reference appendices and a glossary. All twelve chapters follow similar formats – a relevant Bible passage, a brief exposition and space to record your response. Options for action are reviewed – Extinction Rebellion is mentioned with approval, though with a caveat regarding its ethos. ‘Deep thinkers’ sections offer further details with some practical tips the authors have used. A brief thematic prayer is followed by related input from an organisation involved in addressing issues raised in the chapter, which concludes with ‘Jamie’s 12 tips for action’ and space to record your response. Does the book achieve the authors’ aim? Will you find it useful? I think families may benefit from reading it but for active ministers, I am not so sure. However, one thing is certain with climate change – doing nothing is not an option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Roger Thornington\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Changing the Climate: Applying the Bible in a climate emergency
£9.99
Digital eBook Only - A series of Bible passages unpacked to show the Bible’s relevance to environmentalism, and how we...
{"id":14779354382716,"title":"Vibrant Christianity in Multifaith Britain: Equipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths","handle":"vibrant-christianity-in-multifaith-britain-equipping-the-church-for-a-faithful-engagement-with-people-of-different-faiths-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEquipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths. \u003c\/strong\u003eVibrant Christianity in Multi-Faith Britain is an accessible and thought-provoking approach that encourages readers to think seriously about how we live out our faith in an increasingly multi-faith society. Whether we meet people of different faiths or just hear about them in the media, this book will give Christians confidence to express our faith in a religiously diverse world. Drawing on scripture and the author's many years of experience, the book challenges preconceptions and offers practical advice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat do we think of other faiths?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA different question\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThem and us?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe great commission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDoing dialogue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeing peacemakers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCultural issues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe church: reaching out and welcoming in\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the book I wish had been available when I first started to think about engaging with other faiths. Andrew is a safe guide to this rewarding and necessary aspect of contemporary Christian discipleship. He offers his long experience, godly wisdom and theological depth worn lightly in the stories and reflections that will amuse, reassure, but most of all inspire us to the best practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Dr Richard Sudworth, Priest in Charge at Christchurch Sparkbrook \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf 'proclamation evangelism' and 'diaconal service' are badly in need of a biblical redefinition; and if the two need to be synthesised into one cohesive whole that's organic and relational, then this is a 'must-read' about what the non-negotiable ingredients are; how they ideally blend together and what it could look like in practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Steve Bell, Author, speaker, Director of Interserve in Gt Britain \u0026amp; Ireland \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Vibrant Christianity' does exactly what the title suggests: it challenges Christians to think and pray and act in such a way that the Christian faith will continue to flourish in the United Kingdom for generations to come. This is a must read for anyone who wants to think about how to love their neighbour as themselves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Dr Tom Wilson, Director St Philip's Centre, Leicester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA welcome and significant contribution to a better understanding of the nation's search for meaning in life through the eyes of a committed Christian. Andrew's style is refreshing, not least because his working assumption is the recognition that he needs to learn more and that can only be achieved by asking questions rather than by expressing opinions. The breadth of issues covered serves to allow readers to use it as a reference book as well as a carefully coherent development of key themes. A challenging and radical book which is highly commended.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Sior Coleman, Faith producer\/presenter BBC WM \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Smith is Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham. Together with others, he set up the charity The Feast to develop Christian-Muslim youth work. He led the initiative to create the Ethical Guidelines for Witness produced by The National Christian-Muslim Forum 2006-2011.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 24 May 2019. Review by Anna Poulson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this short and accessible introduction to engaging with people of different faiths, Andrew Smith provides an exciting vision for how this calling is for all Christians rather than a specialist ministry for a few interfaith experts and cross-cultural mission partners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham, Smith himself has become one such expert. But it is the practical wisdom and personal insights gained over the years of living and working with different faith communities in Birmingham which gives his argument authority and credibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExperience has taught Smith that interfaith engagement does not rely on the acquisition of academic knowledge about other faiths. Instead, Christians need a confidence and joy in unapologetically communicating their own faith, combined with a desire for genuine encounter and open dialogue, a willingness to listen and to learn, and an enthusiasm for peacemaking and friendship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this, Smith provides plenty of training — from his exploration of both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission as his biblical underpinning for this ministry, to his practical guidelines for dialogue and ethical evangelism, his exploration of basic cultural issues, and his invitation to be peacemakers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn setting out his vision, Smith does not shy away from some of the more challenging issues: questions of salvation, evangelism, and conversion are faced head on with confidence, and tempered with generous amounts of humility and compassion. So, too, is the necessity of learning how to disagree well through dialogue (before a crisis forces the issue), and the paralysis caused by fear of the unknown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat we don’t find here is a historical perspective on how Britain came to be the multi-religious society it is today, or an analysis of the extent to which Christianity is present and engaged in our cities and large towns. Neither does it explore the various theological paradigms that might have been brought into play, nor some of the ecclesiological questions that we would do well to be asking. But what we do find is inspiration for how we can be biblical Christians, who are faithful to the distinctiveness of the gospel and committed to graciously loving our neighbours from different faith communities and affirming all that is good within them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book should be on the essential reading list of every ordinand and re-written as a Lent course for their congregations. The relational model at the heart of it will give them the confidence not simply to tolerate or live alongside people from other religious backgrounds, but to discover the joy of true encounter and transforming friendships with all our neighbours in this increasingly dynamic and complex multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Smith is one expert from whom we should look forward to hearing more in the years ahead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Dr Anna Poulson, Vicar of St John’s Southall Green, London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Winter 2018. Review by Ray Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very timely book. Contemporary Britain is now a place in which Christianity is no longer the dominant religion, but home to an increasing number of people from different faith traditions. Smith makes the point right at the outset that religion is rarely out of the news, usually for all the wrong reasons, and other faiths, particularly Islam, are much more \u003cem\u003evisible \u003c\/em\u003e(my stress) in politics, education, and popular culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author is well-qualified to write about this field. He is the Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham; he co-founded the charity The Feast to develop Christian-Muslim youth work; and he led the initiative to create the Ethical Guidelines for Christian and Muslim Witness in Britain. It might be supposed that Smith's interests lie solely in the Muslim faith but this book also discusses Judaism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Hinduism. Smith often discusses the Muslim faith in detail, but his conclusions, advice and many biblical examples can equally be applied to other faiths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I really like about this book is how accessible it is. Smith has a deceptively engaging style that belies the seriousness of his subject. He adopts a sensible approach to the issues, occasionally provocative and challenging, but always underpinned by scripture and the example of Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne approach to improvement and developing good relationships is to remain friendly and agree to disagree. The analogy is that of a marriage -- it takes a brave spouse to tell their partner that what they believe is wrong! It is better to listen, ask why they have a certain point of view and then offer a different perspective. One of Smith's golden rules, whenever he is faced with something he doesn't know or understand, is to \u003cem\u003ejust smile and ask.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will useful for preachers when their message reflects on other faiths, aided by its extensive use of scriptural example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ray Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2018. Review by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring and practical book tackling one of the most pressing challenges to the Church in Britain today. Smith is director of interfaith relations for the bishop of Birmingham and writes from many years of experience, especially with Christian\/Muslim youth work. He believes that, as more British Christians are finding themselves working with and living among people who practice faiths other than Christianity, they are having to rethink some of their assumptions and attitudes. The aim of the book is therefore 'to equip the Church for a faithful engagement with people of other faiths.' Coming from the evangelical end of the Church, Smith argues from scripture and discusses how to balance friendship, dialogue and evangelism and concludes that dialogue is an authentic medium for witness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform April 2018. Review by Maggie Hindley, retired minister\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt last! Thank you, Andrew Smith, for this invitation to evangelical Christians, to engage seriously, as equals, with people of other faiths. I know nothing else like it, and it is much needed in these times, when British Christians find themselves rubbing shoulders with people of other faiths as neighbours, colleagues and citizens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmith's argument is that we should stop thinking in terms of a 'spiritual scale' where some people are going to heaven and others not. Letting go of such dualistic thinking allows us to view our other-faith neighbour in a more complex way. The command to love our neighbour trumps the command to evangelise, and love shows itself in respectful service. If we approach the faith of another with an enquiring mind, we may find much to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen we do invite others to faith in Jesus, Smith argues, we should do it without manipulation; we should listen as much as we speak and try to understand that they, too, have a right to invite us to their faith. Smith reproduces the Christian Muslim Forum's excellent 'Guidelines for Ethical Witness' in full. He also writes passionately on the need for mediation in times of tension, for cultural bridge building and for long-term commitment to interfaith friendship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a piece of biblical narrative retold, and the book is thoroughly rooted in scripture. It is a very accessible read, made warm and vivid by Smith's attractive and often self-deprecating anecdotes about his own interfaith experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book for interfaith enthusiasts as well as evangelicals. I was put off at first by Smith's assumption that his reader might worry about whether or not the neighbour of another faith might go to heaven - I don't, nor, I'm sure, do many 'Reform' readers. But how can we seek to understand our neighbour of another faith if we don't first listen to the concerns of fellow Christians across our liberal\/evangelical divide?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Vibrant Christianity in Multifaith Britain is divided into eight chapters, each followed by questions for discussion. At GBP7.99, it's a good choice for a book group or a four-to-eight session course.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Maggie Hindley, retired minister\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMagnet. Review by Juliet Campbell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Andrew Smith is Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham and set up a charity - the Feast - to nurture Christian\/Muslim youth work and understanding. Dr Smith had a lead role in creating the Ethical Guidelines for Witness, which was produced by the National Christian Muslim Forum (2006-2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe addresses a variety of topics: what Christians think of other faiths; them and us; the great commission; dialogue; peace-making; community; culture and reaching out and welcoming in - the Church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a paraphrased passage from the New Testament, moving into the author's own experience and finishing with questions which can be used for discussion. This book is a straightforward but challenging read for contemporary Christians in an ever-developing multi-faith society. It challenges us to review how we see ourselves and those of other faiths in relation to sharing in the community we live in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Juliet Campbell\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T08:12:34+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T08:11:38+00:00","vendor":"Andrew Smith","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jan-18","Mission"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604694622588,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465740","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Vibrant Christianity in Multifaith Britain: Equipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":147,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465740","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/263.png?v=1730980359","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/264.png?v=1730980350"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/263.png?v=1730980359","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001494552956,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/263.png?v=1730980359"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/263.png?v=1730980359","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001492619644,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/264.png?v=1730980350"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/264.png?v=1730980350","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEquipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths. \u003c\/strong\u003eVibrant Christianity in Multi-Faith Britain is an accessible and thought-provoking approach that encourages readers to think seriously about how we live out our faith in an increasingly multi-faith society. Whether we meet people of different faiths or just hear about them in the media, this book will give Christians confidence to express our faith in a religiously diverse world. Drawing on scripture and the author's many years of experience, the book challenges preconceptions and offers practical advice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat do we think of other faiths?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA different question\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThem and us?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe great commission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDoing dialogue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeing peacemakers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCultural issues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe church: reaching out and welcoming in\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the book I wish had been available when I first started to think about engaging with other faiths. Andrew is a safe guide to this rewarding and necessary aspect of contemporary Christian discipleship. He offers his long experience, godly wisdom and theological depth worn lightly in the stories and reflections that will amuse, reassure, but most of all inspire us to the best practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Dr Richard Sudworth, Priest in Charge at Christchurch Sparkbrook \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf 'proclamation evangelism' and 'diaconal service' are badly in need of a biblical redefinition; and if the two need to be synthesised into one cohesive whole that's organic and relational, then this is a 'must-read' about what the non-negotiable ingredients are; how they ideally blend together and what it could look like in practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Steve Bell, Author, speaker, Director of Interserve in Gt Britain \u0026amp; Ireland \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Vibrant Christianity' does exactly what the title suggests: it challenges Christians to think and pray and act in such a way that the Christian faith will continue to flourish in the United Kingdom for generations to come. This is a must read for anyone who wants to think about how to love their neighbour as themselves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Dr Tom Wilson, Director St Philip's Centre, Leicester \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA welcome and significant contribution to a better understanding of the nation's search for meaning in life through the eyes of a committed Christian. Andrew's style is refreshing, not least because his working assumption is the recognition that he needs to learn more and that can only be achieved by asking questions rather than by expressing opinions. The breadth of issues covered serves to allow readers to use it as a reference book as well as a carefully coherent development of key themes. A challenging and radical book which is highly commended.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Sior Coleman, Faith producer\/presenter BBC WM \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Smith is Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham. Together with others, he set up the charity The Feast to develop Christian-Muslim youth work. He led the initiative to create the Ethical Guidelines for Witness produced by The National Christian-Muslim Forum 2006-2011.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 24 May 2019. Review by Anna Poulson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this short and accessible introduction to engaging with people of different faiths, Andrew Smith provides an exciting vision for how this calling is for all Christians rather than a specialist ministry for a few interfaith experts and cross-cultural mission partners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham, Smith himself has become one such expert. But it is the practical wisdom and personal insights gained over the years of living and working with different faith communities in Birmingham which gives his argument authority and credibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExperience has taught Smith that interfaith engagement does not rely on the acquisition of academic knowledge about other faiths. Instead, Christians need a confidence and joy in unapologetically communicating their own faith, combined with a desire for genuine encounter and open dialogue, a willingness to listen and to learn, and an enthusiasm for peacemaking and friendship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this, Smith provides plenty of training — from his exploration of both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission as his biblical underpinning for this ministry, to his practical guidelines for dialogue and ethical evangelism, his exploration of basic cultural issues, and his invitation to be peacemakers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn setting out his vision, Smith does not shy away from some of the more challenging issues: questions of salvation, evangelism, and conversion are faced head on with confidence, and tempered with generous amounts of humility and compassion. So, too, is the necessity of learning how to disagree well through dialogue (before a crisis forces the issue), and the paralysis caused by fear of the unknown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat we don’t find here is a historical perspective on how Britain came to be the multi-religious society it is today, or an analysis of the extent to which Christianity is present and engaged in our cities and large towns. Neither does it explore the various theological paradigms that might have been brought into play, nor some of the ecclesiological questions that we would do well to be asking. But what we do find is inspiration for how we can be biblical Christians, who are faithful to the distinctiveness of the gospel and committed to graciously loving our neighbours from different faith communities and affirming all that is good within them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book should be on the essential reading list of every ordinand and re-written as a Lent course for their congregations. The relational model at the heart of it will give them the confidence not simply to tolerate or live alongside people from other religious backgrounds, but to discover the joy of true encounter and transforming friendships with all our neighbours in this increasingly dynamic and complex multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Smith is one expert from whom we should look forward to hearing more in the years ahead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Dr Anna Poulson, Vicar of St John’s Southall Green, London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Winter 2018. Review by Ray Taylor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very timely book. Contemporary Britain is now a place in which Christianity is no longer the dominant religion, but home to an increasing number of people from different faith traditions. Smith makes the point right at the outset that religion is rarely out of the news, usually for all the wrong reasons, and other faiths, particularly Islam, are much more \u003cem\u003evisible \u003c\/em\u003e(my stress) in politics, education, and popular culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author is well-qualified to write about this field. He is the Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham; he co-founded the charity The Feast to develop Christian-Muslim youth work; and he led the initiative to create the Ethical Guidelines for Christian and Muslim Witness in Britain. It might be supposed that Smith's interests lie solely in the Muslim faith but this book also discusses Judaism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Hinduism. Smith often discusses the Muslim faith in detail, but his conclusions, advice and many biblical examples can equally be applied to other faiths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I really like about this book is how accessible it is. Smith has a deceptively engaging style that belies the seriousness of his subject. He adopts a sensible approach to the issues, occasionally provocative and challenging, but always underpinned by scripture and the example of Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne approach to improvement and developing good relationships is to remain friendly and agree to disagree. The analogy is that of a marriage -- it takes a brave spouse to tell their partner that what they believe is wrong! It is better to listen, ask why they have a certain point of view and then offer a different perspective. One of Smith's golden rules, whenever he is faced with something he doesn't know or understand, is to \u003cem\u003ejust smile and ask.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book will useful for preachers when their message reflects on other faiths, aided by its extensive use of scriptural example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ray Taylor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2018. Review by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring and practical book tackling one of the most pressing challenges to the Church in Britain today. Smith is director of interfaith relations for the bishop of Birmingham and writes from many years of experience, especially with Christian\/Muslim youth work. He believes that, as more British Christians are finding themselves working with and living among people who practice faiths other than Christianity, they are having to rethink some of their assumptions and attitudes. The aim of the book is therefore 'to equip the Church for a faithful engagement with people of other faiths.' Coming from the evangelical end of the Church, Smith argues from scripture and discusses how to balance friendship, dialogue and evangelism and concludes that dialogue is an authentic medium for witness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Claire Disbrey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform April 2018. Review by Maggie Hindley, retired minister\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt last! Thank you, Andrew Smith, for this invitation to evangelical Christians, to engage seriously, as equals, with people of other faiths. I know nothing else like it, and it is much needed in these times, when British Christians find themselves rubbing shoulders with people of other faiths as neighbours, colleagues and citizens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmith's argument is that we should stop thinking in terms of a 'spiritual scale' where some people are going to heaven and others not. Letting go of such dualistic thinking allows us to view our other-faith neighbour in a more complex way. The command to love our neighbour trumps the command to evangelise, and love shows itself in respectful service. If we approach the faith of another with an enquiring mind, we may find much to learn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen we do invite others to faith in Jesus, Smith argues, we should do it without manipulation; we should listen as much as we speak and try to understand that they, too, have a right to invite us to their faith. Smith reproduces the Christian Muslim Forum's excellent 'Guidelines for Ethical Witness' in full. He also writes passionately on the need for mediation in times of tension, for cultural bridge building and for long-term commitment to interfaith friendship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a piece of biblical narrative retold, and the book is thoroughly rooted in scripture. It is a very accessible read, made warm and vivid by Smith's attractive and often self-deprecating anecdotes about his own interfaith experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book for interfaith enthusiasts as well as evangelicals. I was put off at first by Smith's assumption that his reader might worry about whether or not the neighbour of another faith might go to heaven - I don't, nor, I'm sure, do many 'Reform' readers. But how can we seek to understand our neighbour of another faith if we don't first listen to the concerns of fellow Christians across our liberal\/evangelical divide?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Vibrant Christianity in Multifaith Britain is divided into eight chapters, each followed by questions for discussion. At GBP7.99, it's a good choice for a book group or a four-to-eight session course.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Maggie Hindley, retired minister\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMagnet. Review by Juliet Campbell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr Andrew Smith is Director of Interfaith Relations for the Bishop of Birmingham and set up a charity - the Feast - to nurture Christian\/Muslim youth work and understanding. Dr Smith had a lead role in creating the Ethical Guidelines for Witness, which was produced by the National Christian Muslim Forum (2006-2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe addresses a variety of topics: what Christians think of other faiths; them and us; the great commission; dialogue; peace-making; community; culture and reaching out and welcoming in - the Church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter begins with a paraphrased passage from the New Testament, moving into the author's own experience and finishing with questions which can be used for discussion. This book is a straightforward but challenging read for contemporary Christians in an ever-developing multi-faith society. It challenges us to review how we see ourselves and those of other faiths in relation to sharing in the community we live in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Juliet Campbell\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Vibrant Christianity in Multifaith Britain: Equipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths
£6.99
Digital eBook Only - Equipping the church for a faithful engagement with people of different faiths. Vibrant Christianity in Multi-Faith...
{"id":14779334885756,"title":"Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission","handle":"resourcing-rural-ministry-practical-insights-for-mission-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church. Relevant for ordained and lay leaders alike, the book covers subjects ranging from encouraging evangelism in a multi-church group to making best use of church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContaining a wealth of real-life case studies and suggestions for follow-up, this ecumenical publication draws on the expertise and resources of the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC), which has served the spiritual and practical needs of the rural Christian community for over 40 years. This book contributes to ARC's Germinate programme of training, development and support for rural multi-church groups of all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the ARC. Additional chapters have been contributed by the Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text has been prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide is rooted in the reality of rural life with all its opportunities and challenges. Experienced rural practitioners share stories and resources which will inspire and equip those Christians, lay and ordained, who are working together in the very varied rural communities in Britain. Simon Martin and the other contributors have provided an invaluable resource for all who are engaged in rural mission and ministry, which I hope will be widely read and used.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Ruth Gee, BA, M Litt, President of the Methodist Conference 2013 - 2014, Chair of the Darlington Methodist District \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want an inspiring read, this book is for you. This is a can-do book for whatever your context may be. I found it faith-building and full of fantastic stories, innovative ideas and best practice throughout its pages. This book is a must for anyone passionate about seeing the gospel transform their community, whether an individual, lay preacher or church leader, and will inspire creativity, energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference in your setting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roy Crowne, Executive Director, HOPE \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFundamentals of Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and being disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. This is a 'must read' book for clergy, educators, lay leaders and anyone who has a heart for rural mission.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Peter Ball, Mission and Training Officer, Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really useful, affirming, grounded, inspirational and practical resource book. Great for anyone in rural ministry, but with wisdom for those in lay and ordained ministry anywhere.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lucy Moore, BRF Messy Church Team Leader \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key message of this very useful and usable collection is that we can learn so much from the stories of what God is doing among us and through us. Read these contributions and you'll be excited by a wealth of experience, insight and resource. How to develop a learning culture is a hugely important question, and it is a vital issue for the rural church in regard to worship, discipleship and evangelism. This book is a significant contribution to that development, not least because of its consistent theme of learning from each other and learning together. I warmly commend it to all who long for the flourishing of the rural church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon, Chair of the Rural Affairs Group of the Church of England General Synod \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the Arthur Rank Centre. Additional chapters have been contributed by Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi (Diocese of St David's) - June 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Arthur Rank Centre has been the churches' focus on rural ministry and mission for 40+ years. The accumulated knowledge on all matters affecting every denomination is unrivalled. The connections into every diocese and district has distilled much experience into this small book. The title and subtitle show how the commitment of ministry is to mission. The key questions are asked and answered. What support is available for rural congregations that have limited resources and few members? How do you resource small, dispersed rural congregations and their leaders, lay and ordained?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reliance on lay people is the norm in rural communities and churches. Clergy have to find their role, which can be very different from how it is in an urban church. The nature of church, its theology, worship, practical outreach and expectations are likely to be very different if there are less than a dozen regularly at worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose few laypeople are likely to be involved in many other community activities and their witness does not go unseen. The community in which the church is set has its own rhythms and customs. It is wise to understand these so that the life of the church respects those that are honourable and desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is no surprise that this book refers readers to larger resources on the website (www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk). The chapter on worship recognises how it is part of the breath of the community, even for those who do not join in. There are many who may use the church building for their own good purposes, such as meditation and prayer, at other times of the week. The chapter on evangelism refers to the Journey to Faith section. There is a useful critique of Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The chapter on children and young people brings together several good examples of rural churches that have tried new ways of building relationships with this generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRelationship is the key to rural ministry and mission. Many people have existing relationships and friendships and the church has to recognise these links so that its invitation to a new relationship with Christ is offered appropriately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChurch buildings have their own contribution to make in re-connecting church to community. Good examples abound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Jeremy Martineau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 29 April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMULTI-AUTHOR books have their difficulties, but this is a book that will be widely appreciated and much read in rural parishes. The book was conceived and largely written by Simon Martin of the Arthur Rank Centre (the Church's presence at the centre of the farming and countryside world). Unfortunately, Simon became seriously ill before the completion of this book, and it was prepared for publication by Jill Hopkinson and other authors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the wake of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the City\u003c\/em\u003e (1985), the attention of the churches turned to rural matters, not least because of the animal-health problems of the 1980s. \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Countryside\u003c\/em\u003e (1990) seemed for a time to be the high watermark of the Church's concern with the countryside and its rural parishes. But in recent years there has been a steady flow of books on rural matters, among which this book now takes its place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBooks on the rural Church tend to fall into two categories: first, those that are essentially local histories, but which generalise about the state of affairs in the countryside; second, those about how to minister in rural areas which are full of accounts of how to confront the steady decline in rural church life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book contains little historical analysis of the development of rural parishes, but is full of accounts of pioneering work and how this has been achieved. Those in need of help as they seek to deal with the complexities of church life in rural communities should turn to this book, which is full of examples of 'what to do' and 'how to do it', many of them drawn from the Arthur Rank Centre's publication \u003cem\u003e Country Parish\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are chapters on discipleship and nurture; mission in the rural context; rural fresh expressions; worship in small churches; and the use and adaptation of historic church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor generations, the central issue in rural parishes has been who 'owns' the church, 'not in the sense of legal tenure but in the sense of who makes the rules, determines the programme and the general direction and feel of that church'. There have been historic struggles between patrons, clergy, and churchwardens. But today many parishes have witnessed ownership struggles between the old resident community and recent arrivals who bring a different understanding of the nature of the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch differences have to be reconciled, because, according to Martin, a successful rural church must be run by its congregation. While it used to be considered that the role of the laity was to help the clergy do what was essentially their job, Martin and his co-authors make it clear that the rural church will only thrive if it is run by the laity, and the role of the very few rural clergy is to encourage and equip the laity to do this job\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e.In one church, a member of the congregation wrote on the wall 'This is my church.' This book makes clear that unless the laity, in every sense, own and take responsibility for the local church, it will die. Many will recognise the truth of this statement in the contemporary countryside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Anthony Russell is a former Bishop of Ely and President of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurches Together in England - April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is long overdue as it brings many of the resources for mission from the Arthur Rank Centre - which has resourced rural ministry and mission for 40 years - into one place. This is very welcome for clergy and lay people alike and from across the churches in England, especially as it is said that 1 in 6 of the population live in rural areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by national advisors and local practitioners alike, \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e does exactly what it says, by providing a wide variety of ideas, resources, case studies and comment for anyone concerned with the rural context of mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from all the helpful information, what I like best about this book is the layout. Under straight forward titles and in short sections it is easy to find what you might be looking for. Whether it be Messy Church, Multi-Church Ministry, or rural aspects of Ministerial Training, it also includes examples of more unusual ministry e.g. Forest Church and various aspects of theological reflection e.g. Robert Warren's diagram of Doing, Being and Living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e draws on various traditions including monastic and Fresh Expressions, as well as quoting examples from different denominations. It is a compendium or 'one stop shop' for those who want to address the challenges of the rural church - especially practically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a practical guide, some may say \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e is light in terms of political and social critique, and that it could have drawn more on major works on ministry and mission before it. I would say its strength lies in covering the contemporary ground brilliantly and with just the right amount of information and reflection to encourage every reader in the task of developing understanding, discipleship and rural ministry to get on with the task better informed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll insights are positive, and difficult topics are not ignored. This is well illustrated in a quote from page 42: 'Multi-church ministry brings with it a great many joys and opportunities, in working with different communities and congregations. It also has its own tensions and complications and can be stressful for lay and ordained alike. We know that it is possible for some churches in rural multi-church groups to grow and to do so consistently over several years. We also know that many rural congregations have reduced in size and others maintain regular numbers attending'. What follows this quote is a chapter exploring the issues, with a pragmatic approach, based on research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this is a book for everyone in rural ministry. Full of ideas and encouragement, notes and anecdotes, resources and analysis that has been 'rural-proofed' to be relevant and helpful. Drawing on resources from the Arthur Rank Centre e.g. Country Way (p39) and Journey to Faith (p110), it draws on 40 years' experience and provides the reader with a wonderful overview, guide and mission resource all in one place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJim Currin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCTE Evangelisation, Mission and Media\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStaff member on the Churches Rural Group\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door (The Diocese of Oxford) March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is currently a group, established by the Diocesan Board of Mission, whose function is to consider a range of strategic initiatives to enhance the rural church, and this book is a welcome introductory resource for all those who have an interest in rural ministry and its expression in the 21st century. \u003cbr\u003eThe authors recognise the specific characteristics of rural ministry relating to context, culture and community and the need to be aware of the specific ways these impact on church life. In keeping with \u003cem\u003eLiving Faith\u003c\/em\u003e there are resources related to mission and ministry including chapters on worship, evangelism, discipleship, children and young people, and developing Messy Church. The book offers a range of ideas, initiatives and approaches in these and other areas, drawing on a range of denominations.\u003cbr\u003eOne of the most helpful sections is by Simon Martin who maintains that rural churches are particularly effective in showing Christ's compassion to those in need and also in what might be termed low level nurture and teaching. He is realistic about the appropriateness of using some resources in the rural context and offers helpful ideas and resources such as the sharing of stories and the use of the Arthur Rank Centre's Equipping for Rural Mission via \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\"\u003ewww.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cbr\u003eAs he rightly states small rural churches are not failed larger ones. Rather they have a range of expressions, networks and routes into their communities that enables them to function as a little yeast, that, in the words of Saint Paul to the Galatians, 'leavens the whole batch of dough'.\u003cbr\u003eRegarding discipleship and nurture, as in other chapters, a number of resources are offered alongside comments and observations from those who have used them. Again there is a helpful degree of realism here to enable one to assess whether what one might offer is appropriate not only for the local context and communities, but also for the resources one has available. This book could well be used by members of rural multi-parish benefices, and within rural deaneries, as a vehicle for gaining fresh insights for rural ministry. By focusing on each chapter in turn, resources for discussing mission and ministry could be creatively and imaginatively explored. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Charles Chadwick is the Parish Development Adviser in the Dorchester Archdeaconry and Leader of the Rural Strategies Steering Group.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 29 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a small, but useful, contribution to counteract the old dictum, 'If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.' Encouraging all churches to believe in possibilities and experimentation, it is a book of 'realtime' stories from across the country, of folk just like you and I, not giving up. Men and women questioning and engaging their localities with bespoke attempts to reach out and reveal the something of the divine and the importance of spiritual reflection in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that, for the past 20 years or more, the polls and pundits are shouting that, in all our mainstream Churches, the active attendance in local churches of our neighbours is rapidly declining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCounteract\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stories relayed within \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry - Practical Insights for Mission \u003c\/em\u003eby Simon Martin with Caroline Hewett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne simply try and counteract the data so often solemnly presented at synods and conferences, but it cannot contradict the overall important trends being revealed. The 'number crunchers-crunching' suggest that our neighbours simply see no need of 'belonging' or 'embracing' the stories of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimon Martin and editor Jill Hopkinson from the Arthur Rank Centre, with friends and colleagues, offer throughout this book (203 pages) cameos of hope and experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe, in the Church, have become familiar with terms like 'fresh expressions' and 'messy churches', but perhaps not with 'Eastertingle' or 'Who let the Dads out' groups, ie the men who care for their little ones gathering together. Even a 'Forest Church' that explores worship in a landscape\/outside of a church building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the book five pages point to other resources tried and tested - probably\u003cbr\u003esome useful and successful, others not so, but all venturesome and calling us to\u003cbr\u003etake courage!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvisioned\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout this book it points to envisioned lay folk and clergy. One short paragraph struck me on p160 (Bar Nash-Williams united benefice of Stamfordham and Matfen): 'All the good plans and keen participation come to nothing if you don't start with the heart, it's your heart that says, 'It's worth it just for one child'. Its the heart that says, 'We do what we can and trust to God for the rest.' When you start with that attitude a tiny church can do good things with tiny resources.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmen to that. For we Methodists those words speak to our DNA of 'warmed hearts' and 'faithful service' to our God-given communities wherever you are. I commend this book to those who are seeking some ideas with a warm heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Canon Alan Robson is Lincolnshire agricultural chaplain.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eMETconnexion\u003c\/em\u003e. December 2015\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eIf you are looking for a practical understanding of the main issues, challenges and responses in rural ministry in Britain, this is the text for you. It's very accessible, straightforward and written by Simon Martin and others who are all associated with the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC) which seeks to equip the rural church for effective ministry and mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I particularly like about this book is that it covers the main areas, at least as I understand them. Too many books on rural Christianity spend a lot of their time offering an analysis of the changing nature of rural communities, dealing with indices of rural deprivation, mobility and so on. This is important and helps us to understand the rural context in which we live out our faith and minister. But, too often they don't offer enough direct suggestion as to what we might actually do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapters consider mission, worship, evangelism, messy church, fresh expressions, worship, discipleship, young people and multi-church ministry. I particularly appreciate the separate chapters on mission and evangelism. Too often these areas are conflated and the result is that being involved with people outside of the believing community is considered to be evangelism. In reality that is mission which creates the opportunity for a more direct sharing of faith and a challenge to discipleship. This book very helpfully, in my view, gets this right.My one small criticism of this book is that it's a bit Anglican. That is fully understandable. The ARC (http:\/\/www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk\/) is a largely Anglican organisation with a Methodist\/United Reformed Rural Officer. The book refers to a lot of ARC resources and programmes which can be used for anyone, although at times there is more of an Anglican flavour. The chapter on 'multi-church ministry' is a good example where the Methodist norm is discussed but rather than strengths and weaknesses of a rural circuit being considered there is more of an introduction to how Methodists do things for others. I think more could be learnt by Methodists and others by a sharper critique of the current Methodist circuit.This is a very good book that enables us to better understand the challenges and possibilities in rural mission and ministry. It does point to the need to produce more material that helps Methodists and other non-Anglicans understand their nuanced context. This is a fine resource that will benefit many.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eRev'd Dr Stephen Skuce\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCountry Way magazine - January 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe all know that society is changing rapidly and that there is a real need for Christians to find new and innovative ways of ensuring that the story of Jesus and the love of God, for this world, and us as individuals can still be heard and responded to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is not always so easy is finding the right models and ways for doing so. Resourcing Rural Ministry is therefore a 'must have' on the bookshelf of all those who wish to think about what God is saying to the rural church in this generation. In many ways rural church life comes with some unique opportunities as well as often being at the heart of the many challenges facing rural communities in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst no book can offer all of the answers, and each context is unique, Resourcing Rural Ministry will help people to think about their rural context, the story the rural church has to tell and then to look at the mission opportunities this provides through practical ideas. The fundamentals of the Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and growing as disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. God provides us with many opportunities to be more missional in our approach and outlook toward church and community life, and this book is a useful tool to help us grasp those opportunities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Ball\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T08:02:38+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T08:01:33+00:00","vendor":"Simon Martin","type":"eBook","tags":["Church life","Glassboxx","Mission","Nov-15"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604691444092,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857462633","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":232,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857462633","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/255.png?v=1730980290","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/256.png?v=1730980369"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/255.png?v=1730980290","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001480364412,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/255.png?v=1730980290"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/255.png?v=1730980290","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001497108860,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/256.png?v=1730980369"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/256.png?v=1730980369","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission in a rural church. Relevant for ordained and lay leaders alike, the book covers subjects ranging from encouraging evangelism in a multi-church group to making best use of church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContaining a wealth of real-life case studies and suggestions for follow-up, this ecumenical publication draws on the expertise and resources of the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC), which has served the spiritual and practical needs of the rural Christian community for over 40 years. This book contributes to ARC's Germinate programme of training, development and support for rural multi-church groups of all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the ARC. Additional chapters have been contributed by the Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text has been prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guide is rooted in the reality of rural life with all its opportunities and challenges. Experienced rural practitioners share stories and resources which will inspire and equip those Christians, lay and ordained, who are working together in the very varied rural communities in Britain. Simon Martin and the other contributors have provided an invaluable resource for all who are engaged in rural mission and ministry, which I hope will be widely read and used.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Ruth Gee, BA, M Litt, President of the Methodist Conference 2013 - 2014, Chair of the Darlington Methodist District \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want an inspiring read, this book is for you. This is a can-do book for whatever your context may be. I found it faith-building and full of fantastic stories, innovative ideas and best practice throughout its pages. This book is a must for anyone passionate about seeing the gospel transform their community, whether an individual, lay preacher or church leader, and will inspire creativity, energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference in your setting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Roy Crowne, Executive Director, HOPE \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFundamentals of Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and being disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. This is a 'must read' book for clergy, educators, lay leaders and anyone who has a heart for rural mission.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Peter Ball, Mission and Training Officer, Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really useful, affirming, grounded, inspirational and practical resource book. Great for anyone in rural ministry, but with wisdom for those in lay and ordained ministry anywhere.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lucy Moore, BRF Messy Church Team Leader \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key message of this very useful and usable collection is that we can learn so much from the stories of what God is doing among us and through us. Read these contributions and you'll be excited by a wealth of experience, insight and resource. How to develop a learning culture is a hugely important question, and it is a vital issue for the rural church in regard to worship, discipleship and evangelism. This book is a significant contribution to that development, not least because of its consistent theme of learning from each other and learning together. I warmly commend it to all who long for the flourishing of the rural church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rt Revd James Bell, Bishop of Ripon, Chair of the Rural Affairs Group of the Church of England General Synod \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry was first developed by Simon Martin as Training and Resources Officer at the Arthur Rank Centre. Additional chapters have been contributed by Revd Caroline Hewlett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne and the final text prepared and edited by Jill Hopkinson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi (Diocese of St David's) - June 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Arthur Rank Centre has been the churches' focus on rural ministry and mission for 40+ years. The accumulated knowledge on all matters affecting every denomination is unrivalled. The connections into every diocese and district has distilled much experience into this small book. The title and subtitle show how the commitment of ministry is to mission. The key questions are asked and answered. What support is available for rural congregations that have limited resources and few members? How do you resource small, dispersed rural congregations and their leaders, lay and ordained?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reliance on lay people is the norm in rural communities and churches. Clergy have to find their role, which can be very different from how it is in an urban church. The nature of church, its theology, worship, practical outreach and expectations are likely to be very different if there are less than a dozen regularly at worship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose few laypeople are likely to be involved in many other community activities and their witness does not go unseen. The community in which the church is set has its own rhythms and customs. It is wise to understand these so that the life of the church respects those that are honourable and desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is no surprise that this book refers readers to larger resources on the website (www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk). The chapter on worship recognises how it is part of the breath of the community, even for those who do not join in. There are many who may use the church building for their own good purposes, such as meditation and prayer, at other times of the week. The chapter on evangelism refers to the Journey to Faith section. There is a useful critique of Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The chapter on children and young people brings together several good examples of rural churches that have tried new ways of building relationships with this generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRelationship is the key to rural ministry and mission. Many people have existing relationships and friendships and the church has to recognise these links so that its invitation to a new relationship with Christ is offered appropriately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChurch buildings have their own contribution to make in re-connecting church to community. Good examples abound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Canon Jeremy Martineau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 29 April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMULTI-AUTHOR books have their difficulties, but this is a book that will be widely appreciated and much read in rural parishes. The book was conceived and largely written by Simon Martin of the Arthur Rank Centre (the Church's presence at the centre of the farming and countryside world). Unfortunately, Simon became seriously ill before the completion of this book, and it was prepared for publication by Jill Hopkinson and other authors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the wake of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the City\u003c\/em\u003e (1985), the attention of the churches turned to rural matters, not least because of the animal-health problems of the 1980s. \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Countryside\u003c\/em\u003e (1990) seemed for a time to be the high watermark of the Church's concern with the countryside and its rural parishes. But in recent years there has been a steady flow of books on rural matters, among which this book now takes its place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBooks on the rural Church tend to fall into two categories: first, those that are essentially local histories, but which generalise about the state of affairs in the countryside; second, those about how to minister in rural areas which are full of accounts of how to confront the steady decline in rural church life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book contains little historical analysis of the development of rural parishes, but is full of accounts of pioneering work and how this has been achieved. Those in need of help as they seek to deal with the complexities of church life in rural communities should turn to this book, which is full of examples of 'what to do' and 'how to do it', many of them drawn from the Arthur Rank Centre's publication \u003cem\u003e Country Parish\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are chapters on discipleship and nurture; mission in the rural context; rural fresh expressions; worship in small churches; and the use and adaptation of historic church buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor generations, the central issue in rural parishes has been who 'owns' the church, 'not in the sense of legal tenure but in the sense of who makes the rules, determines the programme and the general direction and feel of that church'. There have been historic struggles between patrons, clergy, and churchwardens. But today many parishes have witnessed ownership struggles between the old resident community and recent arrivals who bring a different understanding of the nature of the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch differences have to be reconciled, because, according to Martin, a successful rural church must be run by its congregation. While it used to be considered that the role of the laity was to help the clergy do what was essentially their job, Martin and his co-authors make it clear that the rural church will only thrive if it is run by the laity, and the role of the very few rural clergy is to encourage and equip the laity to do this job\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e.In one church, a member of the congregation wrote on the wall 'This is my church.' This book makes clear that unless the laity, in every sense, own and take responsibility for the local church, it will die. Many will recognise the truth of this statement in the contemporary countryside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Anthony Russell is a former Bishop of Ely and President of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurches Together in England - April 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is long overdue as it brings many of the resources for mission from the Arthur Rank Centre - which has resourced rural ministry and mission for 40 years - into one place. This is very welcome for clergy and lay people alike and from across the churches in England, especially as it is said that 1 in 6 of the population live in rural areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten by national advisors and local practitioners alike, \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e does exactly what it says, by providing a wide variety of ideas, resources, case studies and comment for anyone concerned with the rural context of mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from all the helpful information, what I like best about this book is the layout. Under straight forward titles and in short sections it is easy to find what you might be looking for. Whether it be Messy Church, Multi-Church Ministry, or rural aspects of Ministerial Training, it also includes examples of more unusual ministry e.g. Forest Church and various aspects of theological reflection e.g. Robert Warren's diagram of Doing, Being and Living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e draws on various traditions including monastic and Fresh Expressions, as well as quoting examples from different denominations. It is a compendium or 'one stop shop' for those who want to address the challenges of the rural church - especially practically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a practical guide, some may say \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry\u003c\/em\u003e is light in terms of political and social critique, and that it could have drawn more on major works on ministry and mission before it. I would say its strength lies in covering the contemporary ground brilliantly and with just the right amount of information and reflection to encourage every reader in the task of developing understanding, discipleship and rural ministry to get on with the task better informed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll insights are positive, and difficult topics are not ignored. This is well illustrated in a quote from page 42: 'Multi-church ministry brings with it a great many joys and opportunities, in working with different communities and congregations. It also has its own tensions and complications and can be stressful for lay and ordained alike. We know that it is possible for some churches in rural multi-church groups to grow and to do so consistently over several years. We also know that many rural congregations have reduced in size and others maintain regular numbers attending'. What follows this quote is a chapter exploring the issues, with a pragmatic approach, based on research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn short, this is a book for everyone in rural ministry. Full of ideas and encouragement, notes and anecdotes, resources and analysis that has been 'rural-proofed' to be relevant and helpful. Drawing on resources from the Arthur Rank Centre e.g. Country Way (p39) and Journey to Faith (p110), it draws on 40 years' experience and provides the reader with a wonderful overview, guide and mission resource all in one place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJim Currin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCTE Evangelisation, Mission and Media\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStaff member on the Churches Rural Group\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door (The Diocese of Oxford) March 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is currently a group, established by the Diocesan Board of Mission, whose function is to consider a range of strategic initiatives to enhance the rural church, and this book is a welcome introductory resource for all those who have an interest in rural ministry and its expression in the 21st century. \u003cbr\u003eThe authors recognise the specific characteristics of rural ministry relating to context, culture and community and the need to be aware of the specific ways these impact on church life. In keeping with \u003cem\u003eLiving Faith\u003c\/em\u003e there are resources related to mission and ministry including chapters on worship, evangelism, discipleship, children and young people, and developing Messy Church. The book offers a range of ideas, initiatives and approaches in these and other areas, drawing on a range of denominations.\u003cbr\u003eOne of the most helpful sections is by Simon Martin who maintains that rural churches are particularly effective in showing Christ's compassion to those in need and also in what might be termed low level nurture and teaching. He is realistic about the appropriateness of using some resources in the rural context and offers helpful ideas and resources such as the sharing of stories and the use of the Arthur Rank Centre's Equipping for Rural Mission via \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\"\u003ewww.germinate.net\/go\/profiling\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cbr\u003eAs he rightly states small rural churches are not failed larger ones. Rather they have a range of expressions, networks and routes into their communities that enables them to function as a little yeast, that, in the words of Saint Paul to the Galatians, 'leavens the whole batch of dough'.\u003cbr\u003eRegarding discipleship and nurture, as in other chapters, a number of resources are offered alongside comments and observations from those who have used them. Again there is a helpful degree of realism here to enable one to assess whether what one might offer is appropriate not only for the local context and communities, but also for the resources one has available. This book could well be used by members of rural multi-parish benefices, and within rural deaneries, as a vehicle for gaining fresh insights for rural ministry. By focusing on each chapter in turn, resources for discussing mission and ministry could be creatively and imaginatively explored. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Charles Chadwick is the Parish Development Adviser in the Dorchester Archdeaconry and Leader of the Rural Strategies Steering Group.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodist Recorder 29 January 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a small, but useful, contribution to counteract the old dictum, 'If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.' Encouraging all churches to believe in possibilities and experimentation, it is a book of 'realtime' stories from across the country, of folk just like you and I, not giving up. Men and women questioning and engaging their localities with bespoke attempts to reach out and reveal the something of the divine and the importance of spiritual reflection in all of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that, for the past 20 years or more, the polls and pundits are shouting that, in all our mainstream Churches, the active attendance in local churches of our neighbours is rapidly declining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCounteract\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stories relayed within \u003cem\u003eResourcing Rural Ministry - Practical Insights for Mission \u003c\/em\u003eby Simon Martin with Caroline Hewett, Rona Orme and Becky Payne simply try and counteract the data so often solemnly presented at synods and conferences, but it cannot contradict the overall important trends being revealed. The 'number crunchers-crunching' suggest that our neighbours simply see no need of 'belonging' or 'embracing' the stories of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimon Martin and editor Jill Hopkinson from the Arthur Rank Centre, with friends and colleagues, offer throughout this book (203 pages) cameos of hope and experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe, in the Church, have become familiar with terms like 'fresh expressions' and 'messy churches', but perhaps not with 'Eastertingle' or 'Who let the Dads out' groups, ie the men who care for their little ones gathering together. Even a 'Forest Church' that explores worship in a landscape\/outside of a church building.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of the book five pages point to other resources tried and tested - probably\u003cbr\u003esome useful and successful, others not so, but all venturesome and calling us to\u003cbr\u003etake courage!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvisioned\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout this book it points to envisioned lay folk and clergy. One short paragraph struck me on p160 (Bar Nash-Williams united benefice of Stamfordham and Matfen): 'All the good plans and keen participation come to nothing if you don't start with the heart, it's your heart that says, 'It's worth it just for one child'. Its the heart that says, 'We do what we can and trust to God for the rest.' When you start with that attitude a tiny church can do good things with tiny resources.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmen to that. For we Methodists those words speak to our DNA of 'warmed hearts' and 'faithful service' to our God-given communities wherever you are. I commend this book to those who are seeking some ideas with a warm heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Canon Alan Robson is Lincolnshire agricultural chaplain.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eFrom \u003cem\u003eMETconnexion\u003c\/em\u003e. December 2015\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eIf you are looking for a practical understanding of the main issues, challenges and responses in rural ministry in Britain, this is the text for you. It's very accessible, straightforward and written by Simon Martin and others who are all associated with the Arthur Rank Centre (ARC) which seeks to equip the rural church for effective ministry and mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I particularly like about this book is that it covers the main areas, at least as I understand them. Too many books on rural Christianity spend a lot of their time offering an analysis of the changing nature of rural communities, dealing with indices of rural deprivation, mobility and so on. This is important and helps us to understand the rural context in which we live out our faith and minister. But, too often they don't offer enough direct suggestion as to what we might actually do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chapters consider mission, worship, evangelism, messy church, fresh expressions, worship, discipleship, young people and multi-church ministry. I particularly appreciate the separate chapters on mission and evangelism. Too often these areas are conflated and the result is that being involved with people outside of the believing community is considered to be evangelism. In reality that is mission which creates the opportunity for a more direct sharing of faith and a challenge to discipleship. This book very helpfully, in my view, gets this right.My one small criticism of this book is that it's a bit Anglican. That is fully understandable. The ARC (http:\/\/www.arthurrankcentre.org.uk\/) is a largely Anglican organisation with a Methodist\/United Reformed Rural Officer. The book refers to a lot of ARC resources and programmes which can be used for anyone, although at times there is more of an Anglican flavour. The chapter on 'multi-church ministry' is a good example where the Methodist norm is discussed but rather than strengths and weaknesses of a rural circuit being considered there is more of an introduction to how Methodists do things for others. I think more could be learnt by Methodists and others by a sharper critique of the current Methodist circuit.This is a very good book that enables us to better understand the challenges and possibilities in rural mission and ministry. It does point to the need to produce more material that helps Methodists and other non-Anglicans understand their nuanced context. This is a fine resource that will benefit many.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: left;\"\u003eRev'd Dr Stephen Skuce\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCountry Way magazine - January 2016\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe all know that society is changing rapidly and that there is a real need for Christians to find new and innovative ways of ensuring that the story of Jesus and the love of God, for this world, and us as individuals can still be heard and responded to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is not always so easy is finding the right models and ways for doing so. Resourcing Rural Ministry is therefore a 'must have' on the bookshelf of all those who wish to think about what God is saying to the rural church in this generation. In many ways rural church life comes with some unique opportunities as well as often being at the heart of the many challenges facing rural communities in the 21st century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst no book can offer all of the answers, and each context is unique, Resourcing Rural Ministry will help people to think about their rural context, the story the rural church has to tell and then to look at the mission opportunities this provides through practical ideas. The fundamentals of the Christian faith and being church are story, relationships and growing as disciples. This book is packed with helpful resources and background theology that speak into all of these areas and will aid the rural church to be a vibrant and relevant presence in today's society. God provides us with many opportunities to be more missional in our approach and outlook toward church and community life, and this book is a useful tool to help us grasp those opportunities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Ball\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e"}
You may also like:
Resourcing Rural Ministry: Practical insights for mission
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - Resourcing Rural Ministry offers an in-depth exploration of the key aspects, challenges and opportunities of mission...