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Elaine Pagels, one of the world’s most important writers and thinkers on religion and history, and winner of the National Book Award for her groundbreaking work The Gnostic Gospels, now reflects on what matters most about spiritual and religious exploration in the twenty-first century. This bold new book explores how Christianity began by tracing its earliest texts, including the secret Gospel of Thomas, rediscovered in Egypt in 1945.

Unlocking the Divine Calendar: Understanding the Seven Jewish Feasts in the Bible" is a comprehensive guide that delves into the significance and meaning of the seven Jewish feasts as outlined in the Bible. This book provides an in-depth exploration of each feast, including their origins, observance, and symbolism. It also examines the historical background of the feasts and their relevance to modern-day Christians. Through a thorough examination of biblical texts, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual lessons and prophetic implications of these feasts. The book begins ...

The extremes to which the church and its leaders have gone in order to protect and justify various decisions regarding points of faith is fascinating, but tends to obscure the truth. Revisionist history, coercion, greed, lust, and propaganda were the order of the day when the major items of doctrine were being decided. In fact, many of those truths that we hold so dear in our Christian faith were decided, if not invented, through or because of political and financial aims, and not by theological insight. Many doctrines went well beyond what the early church held as truth.

A man rose from the dead! You just don’t get any more awesome than that, right? So that’s it, then. That’s what we are supposed to learn from his resurrection, right? Not exactly. Jesus performed lots of miracles. John said it best when he said that there would not be room in the whole world to describe all that he did. It’s easy to look at the stories of miracles and see them for what they’re worth: miracles. But that’s a shame. If the miracle is in the Bible, there’s a reason for it. It’s not just there because it was miraculous.

Unlock the secrets of one of Christianity’s most intriguing and controversial theological debates with "Pelagianism: A Beginner's Guide." This comprehensive introduction dives deep into the heart of Pelagianism, offering insights that will captivate both newcomers and seasoned scholars alike. Step into the Life and Mind of Pelagius Explore the fascinating life of Pelagius, the monk whose revolutionary ideas on free will and human potential shook the foundations of early Christian doctrine. Understand his core beliefs about human nature, original sin, and moral responsibility that sparked ...

This among Christians is a season of persecution. When, therefore, faith is greatly agitated, and the Church burning, as represented by the bush, then the Gnostics break out, then the Valentinians creep forth, then all the opponents of martyrdom bubble up, being themselves also hot to strike, penetrate, kill.

Unlock the secrets of one of early Christianity's most contentious and influential debates with "Arianism: A Beginner's Guide." This book is your gateway to understanding the theological, historical, and cultural dimensions of the Arian controversy, a conflict that shaped the very foundations of Christian doctrine. Explore the Origins Step into the world of Arius, the compelling and controversial priest whose teachings set off a theological firestorm. Discover the historical context that gave rise to Arianism and grasp why this movement captured the hearts and minds of so many. Meet the Key...

Widely recognized as a pillar of 20th-century evangelicalism, J. I. Packer has had a profound impact on millions of Christians living today. Now in his late eighties, Packer still exerts an enormous influence on pastors and laypeople around the world through his many books, articles, and recorded lectures—works that overflow with spiritual wisdom related to the Christian life. In the latest addition to Crossway’s growing Theologians on the Christian Life series, well-known pastor Sam Storms examines Packer’s legacy when it comes to the Christian and sanctification.

During the advent season of 2023, more than 250 people met online to discuss the people, places, prophecies, and purpose of Christmas . . . as illustrated in Angela Hunt’s STAR OF WONDER, an advent devotional published by Bethany House. This companion book exists . . . . because they asked for it. Inside you'll find extra materials and discussions by that group, in the hope that you will join in the marvelous mystery that is Christmas, Christ-with-us.

An unapologetic tale of 21 saints from 21 centuries, Against the Grain is a heroic love story. To add texture and depth, each century is set in its historical context and highlights a heroic virtue associated with the saint. For our church, nation, and culture to improve, there must be an increase in virtue. This is a playbook to stop playing defense and start playing offense. If you live as a sign of contradiction amidst our coarsening culture and are looking to live a life of greater virtue, perhaps even heroic virtue, be fortified with Against the Grain.

Before the gospels were written, there were proto-gospels, notes, lists, and collections used to construct the gospels we have today. Some gospels were used and built upon to form other, expanded gospels. The “Q” Document was used as a memory tool and literary scaffolding by Matthew and Luke in the writing of their gospels. Although many scholars believe Mark had access to the oldest parts of Q, others believe he did not. Since Mark predates Matthew and Luke, they believe Mark was used as a template for Matthew and Luke.

Christology for Beginners: An Easy-to-Follow Guide to Jesus Unlock the timeless mysteries of Jesus Christ with Christology for Beginners: An Easy-to-Follow Guide to Jesus. This essential guide is crafted for those eager to deepen their understanding of the most influential figure in history. Dive into a journey that unveils the profound impact of Christ's life and teachings, designed to enlighten and inspire. Understand the Dual Nature of Christ Discover how Jesus is both fully God and fully human, bridging the divine and the earthly. Explore the foundational doctrines that have shaped ...

Church historians have long known and appreciated Christianity's global history. Until recently, however, introductory textbooks on the history of Christianity focused almost exclusively on Europe and North America. Robert Bruce Mullins's A Short World History of Christianity, by contrast, offers a panoramic picture of the history of Christianity in its Western and non-Western expressions.

"The First Christmas:"Prophecy Of The Messiah" takes readers on a journey back in time to experience the awe-inspiring events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. This book provides a faithful retelling of the biblical narrative, offering a detailed and accurate portrayal of the circumstances leading up to that momentous night in Bethlehem. Through the pages of the Holy Bible, readers will discover the miraculous birth, the visit of the shepherds and wise men, and the profound impact of this extraordinary event on the world. With meticulous research and a deep reverence for the biblical ...

In the biblical canon, two books lack any explicit reference to the name of God: Song of Songs and Esther. God's peculiar absence in these texts is unsettling, both for theological discourse and for believers considering implications for their own lived experience. Chloe T. Sun takes on the challenges of God's absence by exploring the often overlooked theological connections between these two Old Testament books.

Step into a world where ancient narratives intertwine with modern insights, uncovering the complex tapestry of biblical genealogies. "The Book of Jubilees for Beginners: Discovering the Threads of Biblical Genealogies" offers a captivating journey through time, bridging the past and present, and inviting readers to explore the enduring legacies of faith, family, and history. Discover: Delve into the narrative threads that span from Adam to Moses, revealing the familial lineages that shaped the biblical narrative. Learn how these genealogies provide context for understanding the continuity ...

Jesus warned His followers explicitly about the rise of false prophets: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15-16). This warning, spoken directly by the Lord, serves as a timeless caution to His Church. The metaphor of wolves disguised as sheep is striking; it reveals the subtle, hidden nature of false teachings. Such teachings often appear benign or even appealing at first but ultimately lead to spiritual destruction. For this reason, it is essential for the Church to ...

"Visions and Prophecy: Unveiling Psalms in the Present Age" is a comprehensive exploration of the book of Psalms in the Old Testament of the Bible. This book offers a precise interpretation of the visions and prophecies found within the Psalms, highlighting their pin-point accuracy and relevance to the present day. Each chapter and verse is meticulously categorized, revealing the things that have already been fulfilled and the year in which they occurred. Furthermore, this book provides insights into the things yet to come in each chapter, shedding light on the future implications of the ...

Luther, Calvin, and Knox: Three men who changed the world because they were radically driven and shaped by the Word of God. To study their lives apart from this perfect Word would be folly, and to study the Word apart from its work in history would be incomplete. Living & Active: Volume I introduces us to the catalysts of the Reformation, through the Scripture that shaped them, in hope that we too would find God's Word alive and active in our souls.

Experience the Epistle of Ephesians as never before. This author has set a new standard for commentaries for all believers in Christ Jesus. Look at the Heavenly Realms from a theological, practical, and supernatural knowledge as Pastor Bruce pulls back the veil to the book of Ephesians. His understanding of the Heavenly Realms is by far the foremost thinking and his knowledge and authority on Principalities and Powers has yet to be met. Be with the Apostle Paul as he teaches the foundations of the Christian Faith and his supernatural experiences in Ephesus. Join this pastor as he presents ...