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Best Christian Church History

Killing Jesus (Bill O'Reilly's Killing Series)
Millions of readers have thrilled by bestselling authors Bill O’Reilly and historian Martin Dugard's Killing Kennedy and Killing Lincoln , page-turning works of nonfiction that have changed the way we read history. The iconic anchor of The O'Reilly Factor led the program to the status of the highest rated cable news broadcast in the nation for sixteen consecutive years. He holds a history degree from Marist College, a masters degree in Broadcast Journalism from Boston University, and another masters degree from Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government.
Reviews
"There is no writing concerning the actual miracles attributed to Jesus, but they are mentioned in the text as news of them spread into the surrounding area, so the authors appear to make no claim to any authenticity. After that, it's once again news of post death appearances spread by supposed eyewitnesses, with no attempt to state any author belief in whether or not these events actually occurred. Lest I be accused of being some type of sceptic or unbeliever, let me state that, like the authors, I am a practicing Roman Catholic and truly believe that Jesus is who he said he is and that, if I do what is right, he will greet me when I die. I know that there are many people out there who do not like O'Reilly for his political views and will allow that mind set to lead them to give this book a bad review, even though many of them will not have read it."
"While this book is written in the dry detective-like style and non-religious manner, it presents certain historical information of the area and era that add to what you would read in the Bible."
"The details of the physical affects of the crucifixion were tough to get through but at the same time it increased my appreciation of the suffering that Jesus endured."
"Extremely well written and engaging."
"I just finished the book Killing Jesus by Bill O'Riley."
"Throughly enjoyed this book.The history came alive with the facts presented."
"Their meticulous research brings to life the people and customs of Jesus' time and explains the human side of Jesus, his disciples, his followers, and his enemies. O'Reilly took some criticism for not putting more emphasis on the spiritual side of Jesus, but he made it plain early on that this book is a history of Jesus the man, not a companion piece to the Bible."
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Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas comes a brilliant and inspiring biography of the most influential man in modern history, Martin Luther, in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. On All Hallow’s Eve in 1517, a young monk named Martin Luther posted a document he hoped would spark an academic debate, but that instead ignited a conflagration that would forever destroy the world he knew. “Metaxas knows how to tell a story and how to develop characters, and this talent makes his narrative at once gripping and accessible . his conclusions about the 16th-century revolutionary are uniquely Metaxas, a deep and thoughtful writer with much to teach the world.” —The Washington Times. A beautifully balanced separation of fact from fiction.” —Hugh Hewitt “If you had to make a list of five people who shaped the modern West, Martin Luther would be on it. Read this book for yourself to understand the story we’re all still living through.” —Peter Thiel, cofounder of PayPal, entrepreneur, and author of Zero to One “A marvelous, brilliant book that is equal parts biography, theology, political philosophy, and cultural history. With a light and rapid touch that nonetheless is capable of conveying deep truths and insights, Metaxas deftly blends these many elements into a narrative that reads as compellingly as a novel. I imagine that Luther himself—not an easy man to please—would be deeply impressed by this master portraiture.” —Mark Helprin, bestselling author of Winter’s Tale and A Soldier of the Great War. Bold, fast-paced, and magisterial like its hero, yet always stylish and witty like its author, this account blows the cobwebs off long-settled expectations, and helps us to understand the man who shook the medieval world and helped to shape the modern world.” —Os Guinness, author of Impossible People. With his customary verve and elegance, profound reverence, and biting wit, Metaxas’s Martin Luther is an education in the meaning of man’s relation to God. Gerald L. Schroeder, lecturer and teacher at College of Jewish Studies Aish HaTorah’s Discovery Seminar “This massive but eminently readable biography of Luther deserves no less an adjective than ‘formidable.’ Eric Metaxas is to religious biographers what Pixar is to cartoons.” —Peter Kreeft, author of Catholics and Protestants: What Can We Learn from Each Other? “If you wish to know why Martin Luther is remembered as one of the most consequential figures in history, and why Eric Metaxas has emerged as one of the most prominent storytellers of our generation, you’ll find the answers in this book. Eric’s skill as a writer and biographer are on full display here, even as he corrects the myths and secures the history of a monk who changed the world.” —John Stonestreet, president of the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview. full of clever turns of phrase and humor that makes the incredible story of Luther all the more accessible.” —ChristianHeadlines.com. “A biography designed to peel back the myths and reveal Luther as the fascinating and influential man he was . the author’s fast-paced style and attention to interesting details sets this 450-page book apart.” —Institute for Faith, Work & Economics “Turns some centuries-long legends upside down.” —The Blaze “A masterful portrait of a seminal figure.” — Booklist (starred review) “A meaty autobiography of the Reformation leader. Metaxas brings his flair for epic biography that was on such impressive display in his 2010 book, Bonhoeffer .
Reviews
"He starts off perfectly, explaining how MLK, Jr. got his name, which basically leaves no doubt -- this is important to all of us. Not to ruin the surprise, but key information literally "unearthed" in 2008. So yes, Metaxas adds new information to a well told 500 year old story, and it is really worth examining. But here's the best part about Metaxas' biography -- he makes sure God gets the glory. Metaxas pulls out the pieces of Luther's life that show how God was always part of the story. I heard that earnest but lighthearted Metaxas voice delivering several lines, and it struck me as very humorous."
"For most of my life I worked in the Printing profession so I was glad to see the Eric gave the invention of the printing press it's proper due in why Martin Luther's reforms work where other before him fell short. I personally rank him 2nd to Johann Gutenburg who moveable type combined with the Printing Press was the Reformation and the biggest event of the last millennium. The fact that this Monk could not be killed like nearly everyone else who dare question Catholic dogma of the time is in fact a GREAT story!"
"I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in church history and those of you that don’t really know how Martin changed the world."
"One reviewer has called this book a "fluff" piece since it did not address the anti Semitic writings Luther made in the later part of his life. However, that reviewer must not have read the book as it does address some of the inexplicable statements that Luther made as an old man."
"In addition, I have a better understanding of how the Catholic Church has changed since the start of the Reformation, and what did not really change in the Catholic Church."
"Through this book I appreciate so much more what Martin Luther did for the Christian faith."
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A Pope and a President: John Paul II, Ronald Reagan, and the Extraordinary Untold Story of the 20th Century
The many similarities and the spiritual bond between the pope and the president—and how Reagan privately spoke of the “DP”: the Divine Plan to take down communism New details about how the Protestant Reagan became intensely interested in the “secrets of Fátima,” which date to the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Fátima, Portugal, starting on May 13, 1917—­sixty-four years to the day before John Paul II was shot A startling insider account of how the USSR may have been set to invade the pope’s native Poland in March 1981—only to pull back when news broke that Reagan had been shot. Nancy Reagan called John Paul II her husband’s “closest friend”; Reagan himself told Polish visitors that the pope was his “best friend.” When you read this book, you will understand why. “No Reagan biographer or scholar knows Ronald Reagan and conservatism like Paul Kengor.” — Michael Reagan “[Kengor] has written the most exhaustive and definitive account of Communism’s twentieth-century assault on America to date.” — Townhall. “Kengor makes clear just how central the defeat of the Soviet Union was to Reagan’s personal project.” — National Review. “[Kengor provides] more fascinating and never-before-reported details about how Ronald Reagan succeeded than any other Cold War historian.
Reviews
"The book also chronicles some of the history of the Catholic Church's stand against Communism when the rest of the world seemed to see it as less of a threat."
"this is one of the most fasinating bios on president reagan that I have read in along time the research that the writer has done on these two historical giants who encouraged so many people and brought freedom to countless individuels is very amazing."
"Though Pope John Paul II and Ronald Reagan will be remembered as the pope and the president who defeated Communism, the exact nature of their relationship has been a bit of an enigma."
"This is an account of the partnership between St John Paul the Great and Ronaldus Magnus (Ronald Reagan)."
"This is a long read but well worth it - we used it as a Bible Study offering and it was very interesting hearing the different interpretations of the same happenings."
"I knew that John Paul 11 and the President worked together to bring down communism but had no idea how they did it."
"A very good read."
"Outstanding page turner."
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Best History of Christianity

Killing Jesus (Bill O'Reilly's Killing Series)
Millions of readers have thrilled by bestselling authors Bill O’Reilly and historian Martin Dugard's Killing Kennedy and Killing Lincoln , page-turning works of nonfiction that have changed the way we read history. The iconic anchor of The O'Reilly Factor led the program to the status of the highest rated cable news broadcast in the nation for sixteen consecutive years. He holds a history degree from Marist College, a masters degree in Broadcast Journalism from Boston University, and another masters degree from Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government.
Reviews
"There is no writing concerning the actual miracles attributed to Jesus, but they are mentioned in the text as news of them spread into the surrounding area, so the authors appear to make no claim to any authenticity. After that, it's once again news of post death appearances spread by supposed eyewitnesses, with no attempt to state any author belief in whether or not these events actually occurred. Lest I be accused of being some type of sceptic or unbeliever, let me state that, like the authors, I am a practicing Roman Catholic and truly believe that Jesus is who he said he is and that, if I do what is right, he will greet me when I die. I know that there are many people out there who do not like O'Reilly for his political views and will allow that mind set to lead them to give this book a bad review, even though many of them will not have read it."
"The details of the physical affects of the crucifixion were tough to get through but at the same time it increased my appreciation of the suffering that Jesus endured."
"Extremely well written and engaging."
"I just finished the book Killing Jesus by Bill O'Riley."
"Throughly enjoyed this book.The history came alive with the facts presented."
"Their meticulous research brings to life the people and customs of Jesus' time and explains the human side of Jesus, his disciples, his followers, and his enemies. O'Reilly took some criticism for not putting more emphasis on the spiritual side of Jesus, but he made it plain early on that this book is a history of Jesus the man, not a companion piece to the Bible."
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Best Anglican Christianity

Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life
Drawing from the diversity of her life as a campus minister, Anglican priest, friend, wife, and mother, Tish Harrison Warren opens up a practical theology of the everyday. "To live in the vision that Warren is offering―to find sacredness in the everyday practices of life―will require that we engage with these and other institutional realities in our midst. Her words can help us grasp what my grandfather learned through a lifetime of commonsense faith―and a lot of sweeping: The 'new life into which we're being baptized is lived out in days, hours, and minutes. Under Tish Harrison Warren's insightful gaze, our seemingly 'boring' daily routines become a liturgy of their own―calling us to confession and community, Scripture and Sabbath, baptism and embodiment. This marvelous little book is that certain slant of light that illuminates the everyday as an arena of sanctification, where the Spirit makes us holy in ways we might miss. No mundane daily task will be the same once these pages open your eyes to how the work of your hands reflects the ways of the Creator and the rhythms of eternity." "In this moment in culture, when much feels complicated and shallow, Tish Harrison Warren offers a beautiful and life-giving narrative: a way toward the ordinary sacred. "If Christianity is to retain its witness in our frenetic and fragmented age, it must take root not only in the thoughts and emotions but also in the daily lives and even bodies of those who call Christ Lord. Tish Harrison Warren has beautifully 'enfleshed' the concepts and doctrines of our faith into quotidian moments, showing how every hour of each day can become an occasion of grace and renewal. If you want to know how faith matters amid messy kitchens, unfinished manuscripts, marital spats, and unmade beds, Liturgy of the Ordinary will train your eyes to see holy beauty all around." The highest compliment I can offer is that her book inspired me to go back to my dirty sink and my screaming kids with a renewed sense of purpose."
Reviews
"This book challenges the idea that following Christ must only be bold and dramatic and has reminded me that God breathes life into my ordinary."
"Tish Harrison Warren takes us through the mundane, everyday parts of our lives and shows their connection to the sacred. From waking up to brushing our teeth to eating leftovers and fighting with our spouses, every part of our day is an echo of our relationship with God. As someone who struggles with spiritual disciplines, this book taught me I can work in so many of them during my normal routine."
"Though seemingly simple, it dives into how we live our lives as Christians in everything, even in making the bed!"
"The author's vignettes about making the bed, drinking tea, resting, and more remind each of us that we are God’s beloved creation and to rejoice in how we are created."
"So thankful for Tish's insights and connecting all the dots!"
"I was worried that it wouldn't be applicable for me as a single woman, but many of the chapters hit home."
"We tend to compartmetalize our life in Christ."
"Absolutely loved it."
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Best Baptist Christianity

Spurgeon's Sermons, 5 Volumes
This five-volume set is a compilation of Spurgeon's best sermons, covering topics from Israel in Egypt and confession of sin to justification by grace and Paul's first prayer. It is estimated that during his lifetime he spoke to 10 million people, and he became known as the “Prince of Preachers.” His works fill over 60 volumes; and more than a century after his death, his sermons and devotional texts continue to challenge and touch Christians and non-Christians alike with their biblical grounding, eloquent text, and simple encouragement.
Reviews
"The print quality look like 1850's typewriter type set."
"The print is not quite as high quality as most modern books, but it is still very easy to read and takes nothing from the experience."
"It's Charles Spurgeon in all of his glorious preaching!"
"I couldn't be more thrilled to have these volumes in my collection."
"This is an invaluable reference."
"These are amazing sermons this man was gifted by God for sure."
"I was thrilled with my purchase."
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Best Christian Institutions & Organizations

Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands: People in Need of Change Helping People in Need of Change (Resources for Changing Lives)
Many of us would be relieved if God had place dour sanctification in the hands of trained professionals, but that simply is not the biblical model. Paul Tripp is president of Paul Tripp Ministries, a nonprofit organization whose mission statement is "Connecting the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life."
Reviews
"Most of the time people are free with giving advice without really listening to the person who has expressed a need."
"I am not a people person nor do I have many shepherding skills, so I was less than enthusiastic to read this book."
"Very good Biblical insights for those who want to be more effective in helping others on their spiritual journey."
"Paul Tripp does a masterful job of deeply exploring the need and execution of personal ministry/counseling/discipleship in the church."
"Easily moved to my top 10 list of must read and reread books."
"Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Soul Physicians," "Spiritual Friends," "Biblical Psychology," "Martin Luther's Pastoral Counseling," and "Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction.""
"Thorough and well written, backed by Scripture references."
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Best Other Christian Denominations & Sects

Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas comes a brilliant and inspiring biography of the most influential man in modern history, Martin Luther, in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. On All Hallow’s Eve in 1517, a young monk named Martin Luther posted a document he hoped would spark an academic debate, but that instead ignited a conflagration that would forever destroy the world he knew. “Metaxas knows how to tell a story and how to develop characters, and this talent makes his narrative at once gripping and accessible . A beautifully balanced separation of fact from fiction.” —Hugh Hewitt “If you had to make a list of five people who shaped the modern West, Martin Luther would be on it. Read this book for yourself to understand the story we’re all still living through.” —Peter Thiel, cofounder of PayPal, entrepreneur, and author of Zero to One “A marvelous, brilliant book that is equal parts biography, theology, political philosophy, and cultural history. With a light and rapid touch that nonetheless is capable of conveying deep truths and insights, Metaxas deftly blends these many elements into a narrative that reads as compellingly as a novel. I imagine that Luther himself—not an easy man to please—would be deeply impressed by this master portraiture.” —Mark Helprin, bestselling author of Winter’s Tale and A Soldier of the Great War. Bold, fast-paced, and magisterial like its hero, yet always stylish and witty like its author, this account blows the cobwebs off long-settled expectations, and helps us to understand the man who shook the medieval world and helped to shape the modern world.” —Os Guinness, author of Impossible People. With his customary verve and elegance, profound reverence, and biting wit, Metaxas’s Martin Luther is an education in the meaning of man’s relation to God. Gerald L. Schroeder, lecturer and teacher at College of Jewish Studies Aish HaTorah’s Discovery Seminar “This massive but eminently readable biography of Luther deserves no less an adjective than ‘formidable.’ Eric Metaxas is to religious biographers what Pixar is to cartoons.” —Peter Kreeft, author of Catholics and Protestants: What Can We Learn from Each Other? “If you wish to know why Martin Luther is remembered as one of the most consequential figures in history, and why Eric Metaxas has emerged as one of the most prominent storytellers of our generation, you’ll find the answers in this book. Eric’s skill as a writer and biographer are on full display here, even as he corrects the myths and secures the history of a monk who changed the world.” —John Stonestreet, president of the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview. full of clever turns of phrase and humor that makes the incredible story of Luther all the more accessible.” —ChristianHeadlines.com. “A biography designed to peel back the myths and reveal Luther as the fascinating and influential man he was . the author’s fast-paced style and attention to interesting details sets this 450-page book apart.” —Institute for Faith, Work & Economics “Turns some centuries-long legends upside down.” —The Blaze “A masterful portrait of a seminal figure.” — Booklist (starred review) “A meaty autobiography of the Reformation leader. Metaxas brings his flair for epic biography that was on such impressive display in his 2010 book, Bonhoeffer .
Reviews
"He starts off perfectly, explaining how MLK, Jr. got his name, which basically leaves no doubt -- this is important to all of us. Not to ruin the surprise, but key information literally "unearthed" in 2008. So yes, Metaxas adds new information to a well told 500 year old story, and it is really worth examining. But here's the best part about Metaxas' biography -- he makes sure God gets the glory. Metaxas pulls out the pieces of Luther's life that show how God was always part of the story. I heard that earnest but lighthearted Metaxas voice delivering several lines, and it struck me as very humorous."
"For most of my life I worked in the Printing profession so I was glad to see the Eric gave the invention of the printing press it's proper due in why Martin Luther's reforms work where other before him fell short. I personally rank him 2nd to Johann Gutenburg who moveable type combined with the Printing Press was the Reformation and the biggest event of the last millennium. The fact that this Monk could not be killed like nearly everyone else who dare question Catholic dogma of the time is in fact a GREAT story!"
"I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in church history and those of you that don’t really know how Martin changed the world."
"One reviewer has called this book a "fluff" piece since it did not address the anti Semitic writings Luther made in the later part of his life. However, that reviewer must not have read the book as it does address some of the inexplicable statements that Luther made as an old man."
"Informative, enlightening, exciting, interesting, and so very well written."
"Excellent read hard to put down."
"Excellent Book."
"This is the 2nd book I read about Luther recently, and it is outstanding."
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Best Protestantism

Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine
The Christian church has a long tradition of systematic theology, that is, studying theology and doctrine organized around fairly standard categories such as the Word of God, redemption, and Jesus Christ. His Systematic Theology provides the core theology content for all my classes and most of the other undergraduate theology courses at the University.
Reviews
"arrived in great condition, completely satisfied with the purchase."
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Best Christian Church Growth

Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit
A follow up to the profound message of Crazy Love , Pastor Francis Chan offers a compelling invitation to understand, embrace, and follow the Holy Spirit’s direction in our lives. It doesn’t make sense that Almighty God would have children characterized by fear and insecurity. Through solid scriptural support and compelling narrative, breakthrough author Francis Chan returns us to the Holy Spirit as the Bible describes Him.
Reviews
"I highly recommend this book to anyone who is serious about growing in their relationship with God or for anyone who wants to understand what life as a follower of Jesus Christ could/should look like."
"This is a wonderful study of the Holy Spirit and what He should mean in our lives."
"Jesus died to make it possible for us to receive Holy Spirit, and we can’t live the redeemed life apart from Him."
"I liked the way this was written l found it very enlightening and informative."
"A great study book for our Sunday school class."
"I have bought it in book form and given it to many people because of the powerful truths in this book."
"He does this primarily through sharing testimonies of believers who exemplified spirit-filled lives (such as Joni Eareckson Tada and Francis Schaeffer), and by gently confronting pre-conceived notions about the work and purpose of the Spirit through asking tough questions ("I think most of us would...choose a physical Jesus over an invisible Spirit. and pointing out uncomfortable truths ("Let's be honest: If you combine a charismatic speaker, a talented worship band, and some hip, creative events, people will attend your church."
"There are a lot of questions in here that most ppl are afraid to ask."
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Best Christian Church Materials

Then and Now Bible Maps - Fold out Pamphlet
For example:
    . The Holy Land: Then (1300 BC Twelve Tribes) and Now (modern times) uses color coding to show Canaan divided by the Twelve Tribes, and also shows the historical and modern-day names of cities within the regions occupied by the Twelve Tribes Paul s Journeys: Then (AD 47-62) and Now (modern times) show one of the Seven Churches of Asia (Rev. 1-3), cities, towns, ancient ruins, mountains, modern capital cities and a key for measuring the distance traveled from city to city Empires & Kingdoms: Then and Now shows the changing boundaries of the Assyrian Empire, Babylonian Kingdom, and Persian Empire Size: 8.5"x 5.5" unfolds to 38" long. [Then & Now Bible Maps] is the perfect size to fit into the back cover of my Bible.
Reviews
"Super cool!"
"Not bad, not too detailed, but good enough to get by."
"If you want maps for your. detail Bible Study you may want to invest in a larger version."
"It's a little brief but helps with Bible study to know present day places by the overlays."
"not enough maps and not really large enough."
"Enjoying another Rose Publishing product!"
"Disappointed."
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Best Christian Church Leadership

The Name of God Is Mercy
As well, the Church cannot close the door on anyone, Francis asserts—on the contrary, its duty is to go out into the world to find its way into the consciousness of people so that they can assume responsibility for, and move away from, the bad things they have done. The first Jesuit and the first South American to be elected Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis has traveled around the world spreading God’s message of mercy to the largest crowds in papal history. Clear and profound, The Name of God Is Mercy resonates with this desire to reach all those who are looking for meaning in life, a road to peace and reconciliation, and the healing of physical and spiritual wounds. The pope has an easy conversational style that moves effortlessly between folksy sayings and erudite allusions, between common-sense logic and impassioned philosophical insights.” —Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times. “What makes his book most moving is the way in which this man, without disrespecting his own privacy or offering false bromides of modesty, opens the sacred space of his conscience to explain how he came to center his ministry, and now his papacy, around mercy.” —James Carroll, The New Yorker. “As he has done throughout his papacy, Pope Francis shows in this book a compelling way to present God’s love anew to a skeptical world without denying the ancient teachings of faith. “Francis enjoys sharing personal stories of God’s grace and mercy in the lives of parishioners from his native Argentina, people he has known and who have recognized themselves as sinners.” — The Washington Post. The pope has an easy conversational style that moves effortlessly between folksy sayings and erudite allusions, between common-sense logic and impassioned philosophical insights.” —Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times “A book on mercy might be expected to be a warm bath in kindliness, all sweetness and light, but Pope Francis, in The Name of God Is Mercy, offers a tough-minded reflection on an urgently needed public virtue, together with firm, if kindly, pushback against his critics. What makes his book most moving is the way in which this man, without disrespecting his own privacy or offering false bromides of modesty, opens the sacred space of his conscience to explain how he came to center his ministry, and now his papacy, around mercy. “As he has done throughout his papacy, Pope Francis shows in this book a compelling way to present God’s love anew to a skeptical world without denying the ancient teachings of faith. Francis wants us to focus our energy on the 99% who need to experience once more the greatest realities of our faith.” — Time “ The Name of God Is Mercy reminds me of John Paul II’s 1994 book, Crossing the Threshold of Hope . But while John Paul II relied on Gospel passages, theological scholars and past papal pronouncements, Francis enjoys sharing personal stories of God’s grace and mercy in the lives of parishioners from his native Argentina, people he has known and who have recognized themselves as sinners.” — The Washington Post “Powerful . He has started the conversation by setting compassion for the poor, oppressed and deprived of the world above casuistic rule-keeping.” — Financial Times “Pope Francis lays out his case for emphasizing the merciful face of the Catholic Church in his first book as pontiff, saying God never tires of forgiving and actually prefers the sinners who repent over self-righteous moralizers who don’t.” —Associated Press “[Pope Francis] deepens his calls for a more merciful Catholic Church. The question-and-answer book is told in simple, breezy language, with the pope referring to experiences and people in his own life including a niece and prisoners he has visited.” — Newsday. ‘At times I have surprised myself by thinking that a few very rigid people would do well to slip a little, so that they could remember that they are sinners and thus meet Jesus,’ Francis states.” — National Catholic Reporter.
Reviews
""Hesed" includes the concept of God's tenderness in connection with his loving-kindness, love, loyalty, faithfulness and/or covenant love.... More than any other attribute, "hesed" reveals God’s personal identity and the key to understanding God’s character.""
"When I purchased, The Name of God Is Mercy, I was expecting a theological and academic book."
"This little white book makes clear that Pope Frances and journalist Andrea Tornielli communicate well."
"This book is a conversation between Pope Francis and a Vatican reporter Andrea Tornielli about mercy and forgiveness. Here, I believe, he is talking about an institution such as the Church or any Government as well as the individual who through grace can recognize evil or sin and through 'Mercy' healing can occur and we can become whole through forgiveness."
"Reading this book made me think a lot more about Mercy, and it strengthened my faith, which I think even in small way makes me a slightly better person."
"I loved his analogy of the Church to that of a spiritual "filed hospital, where treatment is given above all to those who are most wounded.""
"Regardless, pope Francis' view that one has to recognize a Christian by ones actions, not the rules he/she is willing to follow, permeates his answers."
"Pope Francis is saying the same thing that all the best known and respected, self-inquiry/enlightenment teachers are saying and have said."
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Best Christian Church Administration

Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive
Whether your church is vibrant or dying, whether you are a pastor or a church member, Autopsy of a Deceased Church will walk you through the radical paths necessary to keep your church alive to the glory of God and advancement of Christ’s Kingdom! Thom S. Rainer is the president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, one of the largest Christian resource companies in the world.
Reviews
"Sometimes we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of maintaining things that we don't realize we are neglecting the purpose for why it was created or even the fact that it doesn't belong to us."
"We all know something about death!"
"Since church sickness is very common, tends to develop slowly--and is often unrecognized-- over a period of years, this book can serve as a lifesaver, if read and acted on every 2 to 3 years by church leaders."
"This is a truly informative book about how not to run your church."
"Or, at least, they might have, had they not allowed the Great Commission and Great Commandment to be eclipsed by lesser things, ultimately resisting the increasingly difficult steps towards renewal."
"Thom Rainer, the author did not bite his tongue about the reasons for a dying church."
"Chapters on findings from various deceased churches eventually followed the same pattern: something observed in the real world, guess what?"
"I am a member of a church that is growing spiritually but I have visited other churches over the years."
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Best Christian Clergy

My Prayer Journal: A 3 Month Guide To Prayer, Praise and Thanks: Modern Calligraphy and Lettering
Premium matte cover design Printed on high quality 60# interior stock Modern and trendy layout Perfectly sized at 8" x 10".
Reviews
"It is a nice book and ultimately I don't regret my purchase but it is quite literally only a prayer journal. When I read the description on the cover that states this book is a "3 month guide to prayer, praise, and thanks" i just anticipated a bit more guidance."
"I love how the journal has prompts, journals that are just blank are hard for me because I just don't know what to write but the fact that this one helps you shape your prayer is awesome!"
"I guess this was what she wanted ."
"Learning to express my feeling for my life with christ."
"I love this prayer journal."
"I love guided prayer and this a simple one that can take less than 5 minutes a day."
"can't wait to use in 2018."
"Got as a gift, and my sister loves it!"
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Best Christian Canon Law

Fundamentals of Catholic Dogma
Long considered to be one of TAN's most essential titles, The Fundamentals of Catholic Dogma, is widely recognized as one of the greatest summaries of Catholic dogma ever put between two covers. He received his doctorate degree under Martin Grabmann in Munich and went on to study the development of medieval theology.
Reviews
"Indispensable to Catholics who want patristic, scriptural, and Magisterial justification for the faith they hold."
"In spite of the poor print quality the book is worth 5 stars."
"This is a marvelous reference book, helps clarify any confusion heard about what actual catholicism teaches versus what the uninformed or the critic would assert... Not a book that most would read cover to cover though.."
"It's wonderful to have one of the classics of Catholic dogma in reprint."
"Great resource; print a little small but excellent book."
"Good presentation of RC dogma for non-RCs like me."
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Best Christian Pastoral Resources

The Moody Bible Commentary
Imagine having a team of 30 Moody Bible Institute professors helping you study the Bible. Not many commentaries can do that. This new commentary by the faculty of Moody Bible Institute is a worthy addition to this category of good single volume commentaries. Going through verse by verse at times, the commentary explains the texts, highlights some of the original languages' nuances, and also connects the theme to other passages in the Bible. Issues such as learning to apply timeless principles from Old Testament laws and regulations; contrasting the consequences of godlessness versus the promises of godliness; highlighting devotional material from the Psalms; wisdom from Proverbs with scholarship material from other commentaries apart from their own; a structural framework on understanding the Song of Solomon with an explanation of the different interpretative methods; and many more, making the commentary a very integrated one that aims to bring the central teachings across. Each book begins with some explanation on authorship, approximate dates, who the intended audiences are, the purpose of the book, and how the book contributes to the overall thrust of the Bible. This part alone makes this commentary an excellent primer to begin any in-depth studies of each book. On top of that, the books of the Bible are of different genre and commentary will have to be adapted according to the way and purposes the book are written. That is why it is very difficult to apply any one standard commentary for all the books. After all, students of the Bible learn best not by becoming dogmatic over their own philosophy but to be humble to acknowledge that the Holy Spirit can use anyone to teach us, including using this excellent 1-volume commentary on the Bible. As with the use of commentaries, even though there is an increasing use of electronic references, I feel that having a printed commentary is valuable too. The Moody Bible Commentary, a comprehensive one-volume commentary of the whole Bible, provides an objective look at the historical and cultural backgrounds of each book and help readers interpret Scripture in light of Scripture. The Moody Bible Commentary includes an outline of each book of the Bible, an introduction to each book, and then a more in-depth commentary following the outline given. In the New Testament, charts help readers grasp “The Eight Signs in John” as well as “Jesus’ Seven I Am Claims.” And, readers come to a clearer understanding of the book of James with the chart outlining “Parallels Between James and the Sermon on the Mount.” Of course The Moody Bible Commentary wouldn’t be complete without the Scripture index and subject index at the end, which help readers easily navigate the extensive volume. If you are looking for a one-volume commentary on the entire Bible, The Moody Bible Commentary fits the bill.
Reviews
"The new Moody Bible Commentary (MBC) is a large, handsome, well formatted, brief Bible reference work that includes useful intros, bibliographies and indexes. Believer's Bible Commentary (BBC) by William MacDonald (more devotional, NKJV). The Bible Knowledge Commentary (BKC) by Walvoord and Zuck (more scholarly, NIV). Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (NNIBC) by Radmacher, Allen & House (like Nelson's NKJV Study Bible). Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable (FREE online, more comprehensive, NASB). ILLUSTRATIONS. *** The MBC includes 80 black and white illustrations. HIGH HOPES. Based on a similar work by Dallas Theological Seminary staff, the 2 volume Bible Knowledge Commentary, I had great expectations for this commentary by Moody's faculty. For example: OLD TESTAMENT (OT). In Genesis 6:2, the Moody Bible Commentary discusses 4 viewpoints of who the "sons of God" are. The MBC doesn't mention that the Greek Septuagint (LXX) translates "sons of God" as "angels" and "Nephilim" as "giants." The MBC doesn't mention that "sons of God" in Hebrew (Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7) always refers to angels. Even Moody Press's shorter 1962 "Wycliffe Bible Commentary" actually exegetes Genesis 6 with a Hebrew word study and relevant cross references. The MBC on 2 Samuel 15:7 doesn't give the manuscript evidence (Hebrew, Greek, Aramaic, Syrian, Latin) for why some translations say "forty years" (KJV, NKJV, NASB) and others read "four years" (NIV, ESV, HCSB). *** At 1422 pages, the MBC OT commentary is longer than the BBC at 1150 pages, and the NNIBC at 1128, but shorter than the BKC at 1575. Since the MBC is based on the NASB translation, some authors may not discuss alternative translations (e.g. dispensation for stewardship) or the many longer NT readings found in the KJV, NKJV and World English Bible. *** At 580 pages, the NT commentary is shorter than many one or two volume commentaries (BBC 1183; BKC 979; NNIBC 634), but longer than most Bible handbooks. ADVICE. The MBC may be OK as a backup commentary. After many years of use, I can highly recommend: Believer's Bible Commentary (BBC) by William MacDonald (more devotional, NKJV). and. The Bible Knowledge Commentary (BKC) by Walvoord and Zuck (more scholarly, NIV). "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.""
"I have visited Israel three times and often watch Day of Discovery videos in Israel with Michael Rydelnik so I was excited when this commentary came out."
"I used the new commentary today for the first time during sermon prep."
"He studies to show himself approved, a workman who doesn't need to be ashamed, striving to accurately divide the word of truth!"
"I am a huge fan of Michael Rydelnik."
"A nice, explanatory commentary."
"Both Michaels who oversaw this project have done a great job with this commentary."
"If there is additional commentary beyond simply restating scripture, it is often simply to attribute motive to the person speaking or asking a question. For example, in Mark 10:28-31, Moody attributes Peter’s comment concerning his stating that he and the disciples have left everything to follow Jesus as simply saying to Jesus, “What’s in it for us?” And yet, Moody provides no explanation as to the reason for attributing that motive to Peter."
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Best Christian Ministry to Sick & Bereaved

If God Is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil
It all raises questions about God—Why would an all-good and all-powerful God create a world full of evil and suffering? How can there be a God if suffering and evil exist? Because the main argument of atheists against the existence of God is suffering in the world, Alcorn lays out a weighty and classically reasoned argument to the problem of suffering in this thoroughly modern book. Not academic but well-reasoned, Alcorn may not convince atheists, but apart from them readership is wide open.
Reviews
"As a christian, the first half of this book was a little rough, yet interesting, it compare views of atheist vs the Bible."
"He occasionally repeats himself, but I'm not sure if it is to emphasize a point or if it is the result of a book of this size dealing with many overlapping ideas. Another way Alcorn tries to explain sickness as being something Christians are to endure with patience was when he referenced the man born blind in John's gospel, I think. All of that being said, Christians do get sick and die from illnesses, so we have to find a way to explain why this occurs, which Alcorn's book does better than Brown's, in my opinion. The "weakness" comes because he is attempting to address issues that are so deep and complicated that we will never fully understand them, I don't think, unless we get more answers in Heaven. All books on this issue will have moments that are weaker as they try to delve into the mystery of suffering and evil in God's world."
"However, if you have faith in God, you've long accepted the fact that you will suffer, and that God is working it all for our benefit."
"This book will help you wrap your brain around the purposes for suffering and unwrap some of a good God's mystery about suffering."
"This book was recommended by a friend during an ongoing and horrible ordeal my family has been put through this summer."
""You may feel your choices have been reduced to whether you want Jell-O, or a window opened, or an extra blanket. On the contrary, your choice of whether you will trust God and worship him today reverbates throughout the universe, honoring or dishonoring your God."
"This book is very heavy reading, he goes into the different theological schools of thought on God's sovereignty."
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Best Ecclesiology Christian Theology

The Lamb's Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth
Beautifully written, in clear direct language, bestselling Catholic author Scott Hahn's new book will help readers see the Mass with new eyes, pray the liturgy with a renewed heart, and enter into the Mass more fully, enthusiastically, intelligently, and powerfully than ever before. The Lamb's Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth reawakens a surprising ancient view of the Eucharist, as the harbinger of the supernatural drama described by the New Testament book of Revelation.
Reviews
"If you have any questions about what the Catholic mass represents this is a book that really will inlighten your understanding of what is taking place at the altar of Christ."
"Totally made Mass much clearer, as to why we do what we do and pray what we pray as Catholics during our celebration of the Eucharist and Liturgy of the Word."
"Awesome book!"
"Helps one understand that Mass is not just a service to go to, it more a family meal."
"awesome book!!"
"Truly a marvelous connecting of the dots."
"Scott Hahn is my favorite spiritual author."
"Dr. Hahn uses his deep understanding of the Old and New Testaments to reveal the presence of the Mass in all its glory in the Book of Revelations."
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