Methodist & Wesleyan Library Builder (136 vols.)

by Thomas à Kempis; George Whitefield; Rebecca Van Noord; Jessi Strong

and

91 more

Publishers:

Faithlife; Lexham Press; Macmillan and Co.; T. Mason and G. Lane

and

53 more

, 1765–2016

Overview

Unlock the heritage of the Wesleyan tradition with a personal library of both classic and modern Methodist, Holiness, Wesleyan, and Nazarene writers and theologians. With resources focusing on four main areas of study: biblical studies, theology, preaching and ministry, and classic works, the Methodist & Wesleyan Library Builder personalizes your library at an enormous discount. From John Wesley to Thomas C. Oden and Joel B. Green to Adam Clarke, this library is sure to meet the needs of any pastor, student, or layperson ready to learn, pray, worship, and teach the Word.

Key Features

• Provides prominent works from the founders of Wesleyanism
• Includes resources from four major areas of study: theology, biblical studies, ministry/preaching, and classics
• Empowers you to bolster your library with some of the most important resources in Wesleyan studies

Product Details

• Title: Methodist & Wesleyan Library Builder
• Volumes: 1360

The Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, Part 1: Genesis–Deuteronomy

• Authors: Lee Haines, Armor D. Peisker, and Howard A. Hanke
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1967
• Pages: 550

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Lee Haines served as pastor of Eastlawn Wesleyan Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. He graduated from Marion College in 1950 summa cum laude, where he later served as an instructor in Greek and religion.

Armor D. Piesker graduated from Colorado College and Butler University, where he did his graduate studies and thesis in the field of Old Testament. He served as editor of The Pilgrim Holiness Advocate, and also wrote a weekly column in the Frankfort (Indiana) Morning Times.

Howard A. Hanke received his B.A. degree from Asbury College, his B.D. from the Perkins School of Theology, and his Th.D. from Iliff School of Theology. He served as professor of Bible at Asbury College, and was an ordained minister in the Rocky Mountain Conference of the Methodist Church. Hanke participated in the Evangelical Theological Society, the National Education Association, and the National Association of Professors of Hebrew, and served on the summer faculty of New York University.

The Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, Part 2: Joshua–Esther

• Author: Charles R. Wilson
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1967
• Pages: 499

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Charles R. Wilson attended Miltonvale College, and he holds the A.B. degree from Northwestern College at Alva, Oklahoma, the B.D. from Asbury Theological Seminary, the M.A. in philosophy from Syracuse University, and the Ph.D. in theology from Vanderbilt University. He also did graduate study at Capital University. Wilson also holds membership in the Society of Biblical Literature. He was co-editor of Boundless Horizons, and has contributed numerous articles to religious periodicals and scholarly journals. He was ordained in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America.

Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 2: Job–Song of Solomon

• Authors: Charles W. Carter, W. Ralph Thompson, George Herbert Livingston, George Kufeldt, and Dennis F. Kinlaw
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1968
• Pages: 659

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Charles W. Carter was chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Taylor University, and general editor of the Wesleyan Bible Commentary. He served for many years as pastor in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America, and had a rich ministry as an educator, editor, author, lecturer, and missionary. He was also chairman of the editorial board of the Wesleyan Theological Journal. Carter authored or co-authored more than ten books, and frequently contributed to various religious periodicals and journals.

W. Ralph Thompson served as chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Spring Arbor College. He holds the A.B. and Th.B. degrees from Greenville College, the B.D. from Winona Lake School of Theology, the S.T.B. from the Biblical Seminary in New York, the M.A. from Ball State University, and the Th.M. and Th.D. degrees from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was an ordained minister in the Free Methodist Church, a member of the American Academy of Religion, the Evangelical Theological Society, the National Holiness Association, and the Wesleyan Theological Society.

George Herbert Livingston was professor of Old Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary. He attended Wessington Springs College, where he graduated with the B.A. degree in 1937. He also received at B.A. degree from Kletzing College; in 1948 he received the B.D. degree from Asbury Theological Seminary, and in 1955 he was awarded the Ph.D. from Drew University. He is an ordained minister in the Free Methodist Church, and has pastored churches in Wisconsin and Iowa. He has preached and lectured extensively at churches, camps, ministerial groups, and colleges in America, Europe, and Asia.

George Kufeldt was Associate Professor of Old Testament studies at the School of Theology, Anderson College, of the Church of God. He attended Anderson College, and has served as a pastor. He is thoroughly acquainted with the Hebrew language and with Old Testament literature.

Dennis Kinlaw was professor of Old Testament languages and literature at Asbury Theological Seminary. He earned the A.B. degree from Asbury College, the B.D. degree from Asbury Theological Seminary, and the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from Brandeis University. He has also done graduate study at Princeton Theological Seminary and at New College, Edinburgh, Scotland. Kinlaw has written extensively for religious periodicals and scholarly journals, and has contributed to numerous publications.

Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 3: Isaiah–Malachi

• Authors: Kenneth E. Jones, Bert H. Hall, Claude A. Ries, W. Ralph Thompson, and J. Kenneth Grider
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1969
• Pages: 805

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Kenneth E. Jones served as professor of biblical languages at Warner Pacific College. He attended Anderson College, Oberlin Graduate School of Theology, Louisville Presbyterian Seminary, and Winona Lake School of Theology. He has served at Alberta Bible Institute and Gulf Coast Bible College, and has published numerous books and commentaries. He is an ordained minister in the Anderson Church of God.

Bert H. Hall was chairman of the division of theology and Christian education at Houghton College. He attended Houghton College, Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, and New College, University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Claude A. Ries served as a professor at Houghton College. He attended Asbury College, Syracuse University, Winona Lake School of Theology, and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught English, Greek, and theology throughout his career, and was an ordained minister in the Rochester Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America.

W. Ralph Thompson served as chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Spring Arbor College. He holds the A.B. and Th.B. degrees from Greenville College, the B.D. from Winona Lake School of Theology, the S.T.B. from the Biblical Seminary in New York, the M.A. from Ball State University, and the Th.M. and Th.D. degrees from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was an ordained minister in the Free Methodist Church, a member of the American Academy of Religion, the Evangelical Theological Society, the National Holiness Association, and the Wesleyan Theological Society.

J. Kenneth Grider was professor of theology at Nazarene Theological Seminary. He attended Olivet Nazarene College, Nazarene Theological Seminary, Drew University, Glasgow University, and Oxford University. He also held positions as Associate Professor of Theology at Pasadena College and Hurlet Nazarene College. Grider has authored numerous books and articles, and is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene.

Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 4: Matthew–Acts

• Authors: Ralph Earle, Harvey J. S. Blaney, and Charles W. Carter
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1966
• Pages: 749

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Ralph Earle was professor of New Testament at the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. He attended Eastern Nazarene College, Boston University, Gordon Divinity School, and did post-doctoral studies at Harvard and Edinburgh Universities. He is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene.

Harvey J. S. Blaney served as professor of religion and chair of the graduate division of theological studies at Eastern Nazarene College. He holds degrees from Eastern Nazarene College, Yale University, Harvard University, and Boston University. He is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene, and has pastored Baptist, Congregational, and Nazarene congregations.

Charles W. Carter was chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Taylor University, and general editor of the Wesleyan Bible Commentary. He served for many years as pastor in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America, and had a rich ministry as an educator, editor, author, lecturer, and missionary. He was also chairman of the editorial board of the Wesleyan Theological Journal. Carter authored or co-authored more than ten books, and frequently contributed to various religious periodicals and journals.

Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 5: Romans–Philemon

• Authors: Wilber T. Dayton, Charles W. Carter, Clarence H. Zahniser, George A. Turner, W. O. Klopfenstein, Roy S. Nicholson, and George E. Failing
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1966
• Pages: 675

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Wilber T. Dayton is Professor of New Testament and Greek at Asbury Theological Seminary. Throughout his career, he served as the chair of the department of religion at Wessington Springs College, Professor of Theology and Greek at the Divinity School of Marion College, Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Language at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is an ordained minister in the Indiana Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America.

Charles W. Carter was chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Taylor University, and general editor of the Wesleyan Bible Commentary. He served for many years as pastor in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America, and had a rich ministry as an educator, editor, author, lecturer, and missionary. He was also chairman of the editorial board of the Wesleyan Theological Journal. Carter authored or co-authored more than ten books, and frequently contributed to various religious periodicals and journals.

Clarence H. Zahniser was Associate Professor of Bible at Houghton College. He attended Greenville College, Pittsburg Theological Seminary, and the University of Pittsburg.

George A. Turner was Professor of Biblical Literature at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is the author of numerous books and articles, and an active member of the Society of Biblical Literature and the Evangelical Theological Society.

W. O. Klopfenstein attended Fort Wayne Bible Institute and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as a pastor in Missionary Churches and Baptist Churches.

Roy S. Nicholson attended Central Wesleyan College and Houghton College. He was ordained to the ministry of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in the North Carolina Conference in 1925.

George E. Failing attended Eastern Pilgrim College, Houghton College, and Duke University. He was ordained to the ministry of the Wesleyan Methodist Church by the Lockport Conference in New York. He has taught biblical languages, religion, and theology at both Central Wesleyan College and Houghton College.

Wesleyan Bible Commentary, Vol. 6: Hebrews–Revelation

• Authors: Charles W. Carter, R. Duane Thompson, Charles S. Ball, Leo G. Cox, and Harvey J. S. Blaney
• Editor: Charles W. Carter
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 1966
• Pages: 523

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Charles W. Carter was chairman of the department of philosophy and religion at Taylor University, and general editor of the Wesleyan Bible Commentary. He served for many years as pastor in the Wesleyan Methodist Church of America, and had a rich ministry as an educator, editor, author, lecturer, and missionary. He was also chairman of the editorial board of the Wesleyan Theological Journal. Carter authored or co-authored more than ten books, and frequently contributed to various religious periodicals and journals.

R. Duane Thompson served as professor of philosophy and Greek at Marion College.

Charles S. Ball is pastor of Friends Church in Newburg, Oregon.

Leo G. Cox served as chair of the division of religion and philosophy at Marion College.

Harvey J. S. Blaney served as professor of religion and chair of the graduate division of theological studies at Eastern Nazarene College. He holds degrees from Eastern Nazarene College, Yale University, Harvard University, and Boston University. He is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene, and has pastored Baptist, Congregational, and Nazarene congregations.

Explanatory Notes upon the Old Testament, vol. 1

• Author: John Wesley
• Publisher: William Pine
• Publication Date: 1765
• Pages: 878

The first volme of Wesley's notes on the Old Testament covers Genesis through Judges chapter 14. An ardent student of the Bible, Wesley offers detailed, verse-by-verse observations of this portion of Scripture. A graduate of and later fellow at Oxford, Wesley brings his tremendous education and pious devotion to his study of Scripture. Based on his study of the original languages but presented in plain English, this work seeks to maintain the balance between scholarly depth and helpful accessibility.

Explanatory Notes upon the Old Testament, vol. 2

• Author: John Wesley
• Publisher: William Pine
• Publication Date: 1765
• Pages: 878

The second volme of Wesley's notes on the Old Testament covers Judges chapter 15 through Psalm chapter 62. An ardent student of the Bible, Wesley offers detailed, verse-by-verse observations of this portion of Scripture. A graduate of and later fellow at Oxford, Wesley brings his tremendous education and pious devotion to his study of Scripture. Based on his study of the original languages but presented in plain English, this work seeks to maintain the balance between scholarly depth and helpful accessibility.

Explanatory Notes upon the Old Testament, vol. 3

• Author: John Wesley
• Publisher: William Pine
• Publication Date: 1765
• Pages: 910

The third volme of Wesley's notes on the Old Testament covers Psalm 63 through Malachai. An ardent student of the Bible, Wesley offers detailed, verse-by-verse observations of this portion of Scripture. A graduate of and later fellow at Oxford, Wesley brings his tremendous education and pious devotion to his study of Scripture. Based on his study of the original languages but presented in plain English, this work seeks to maintain the balance between scholarly depth and helpful accessibility.

Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament

• Author: John Wesley
• Publisher: J. Soule and T. Mason
• Publication Date: 1818
• Pages: 772

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Wesley's notes on the New Testament covers all 27 books and includes introductory outlines to each. An ardent student of the Bible, Wesley offers detailed, verse-by-verse observations of this portion of Scripture. A graduate of and later fellow at Oxford, Wesley brings his tremendous education and pious devotion to his study of Scripture. Based on his study of the original languages but presented in plain English, this work seeks to maintain the balance between scholarly depth and helpful accessibility.

New Testament Background

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1956
• Pages: 392

C. K. Barrett’s selection of background documents to the New Testament has been an essential reference book for students of Christian origins for nearly 40 years. Carefully chosen from a wide range of sources, and annotated with the impeccable scholarship for which professor Barrett is renowned, this collection brings the world of the first century vividly to life. Now, Professor Barrett has revised and enlarged the book, taking account particularly of the Qumran material and Gnostic literature, including the Nag Hammadi texts. The addition of these new sections, together with other significant changes throughout, brings the book up to date. The chapters on Josephus, the Targums and Apocalyptic have all been enlarged, and there is new material from the Greek tragedians. A new generation of students will be as well served with this edition as their teachers were with the first. The book includes selections from: Apocrypha & Pseudepigrapha (including 1 Enoch, 4 Ezra, 1 & 2 Maccabees), Dead Sea Scrolls, Eusebius, Gnostic literature (including Hermetic, Mandaean & Nag Hammadi Texts), Greek & Latin authors (including Aristotle, Suetonius, Tacitus & Zeno), inscriptions, Josephus, Old Testament (including Septuagint & Targums), Papyri, Philo, Rabbinic literature (including Midrashim, Mishnah & Talmuds).

Gospel according to John

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Edition: Second
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1978
• Pages: 656

C. K. Barrett’s Commentary on the Greek text of the Gospel of John, long recognized as a major contribution to theological studies, has become the standard work in the field. His comprehensive introduction to the Gospel deals not only with questions of date and authorship, but also with its theology and its place in developing Christian thought and institutional life. This is followed by a detailed commentary that explains John’s language and provides a thorough exegesis of his text.

Holy Spirit and Gospel Tradition

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1958
• Pages: 176

In this work, renowned New Testament scholar C. K. Barrett examines the understanding of the Holy Spirit as it is presented in the Gospels. Applying his encyclopedic knowledge of first-century Jewish and Roman sources, Barrett examines how the concept of the Holy Spirit would have struck the original readers of the Gospel. In doing so, Barrett breathes new life into the Gospel texts and presents the doctrine of the Spirit anew.

New Testament Essays

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1972
• Pages: 159

C. K. Barrett’s gifts as a communicator are well displayed in this collection of his writings. He takes his readers on a series of well-organized expeditions into areas of controversy. He cuts a clear pathway through the intricacies of scholarly dispute and brings us close to the minds and hearts of the men of the New Testament. Two lectures (to English audiences) on St. John’s Gospel and three (given originally in German) on the Acts of the Apostles take the central place in the book, which concludes with a vindication of theology as an academic discipline.

Gospel of John and Judaism

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1975
• Pages: 101

In this book, C. K. Barrett applies his encyclopedic knowledge of first-century Judaism to the Gospel of John. Referencing Jewish, Roman, and extra-biblical Christian texts, Barrett sheds light on beliefs and customs from John’s time, assisting the reader in understanding the message of John’s Gospel.

Essays on John

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1982
• Pages: 167

This is a collection of C. K. Barrett’s essays on the various writings of John (the Gospel, 1, 2, and 3 John, and Revelation).

Essays on Paul

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1982
• Pages: 170

This is a collection of C. K. Barrett’s essays on the writings of Paul.

The Epistle to the Romans

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Editor: Morna D. Hooker
• Series: Black's New Testament Commentary (BNTC)
• Pages: 304

Sample pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

C. K. Barrett's exegetical prowess, evidenced most distinctly in his volumes on the First and Second Epistles to the Corinthians, also in the Black's series, has long been appreciated in the world of biblical studies. Now, in his long-awaited, newly revised, verse-by-verse exposition of Romans, Barrett further enhances our understanding of the book of Romans, early Christianity, the apostle Paul and his theology, and the New Testament. This revised edition has been reworked and updated, and the inclusion of an index of ancient sources further adds to its usefulness. A master of thoroughness, historical backgrounds, and ancient languages, Barrett offers insights for scholars, ministers, students, and anyone who wants to know more about Paul's Epistle to the Romans.

C. K. Barrett is Emeritus Professor of Divinity at the University of Durham. He is especially known for having authored numerous scholarly articles and books, including Commentary on St. John, The First Epistle to the Corinthians, The Second Epistle to the Corinthians (in this collection), The New Testament Background: Selected Documents, and Acts, part of the International Critical Commentaries.

The First Epistle to the Corinthians

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Editor: Morna D. Hooker
• Series: Black's New Testament Commentary (BNTC)
• Pages: 432

Sample pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Perhaps more than any other Pauline letter, 1 Corinthians is known for affording insight into the nature and world of the earliest Christian communities. Whether it concerns Corinthian disputes over wisdom, debates over speaking in tongues, or questions about resurrection, 1 Corinthians shows us the early church—warts and all. And that is what makes it such exciting—and relevant—reading today! Eminent New Testament scholar C. K. Barrett makes the text come alive both in its original setting and in the life of the church today. Barrett's arguments will challenge even the most seasoned scholars to rethink their interpretation of the many controversial passages.

This is a commentary which is both scholarly and religious, both readable and erudite. . . . Barrett has a marvelous gift of helping the reader to see not only what Paul is saying, but what he is saying it about. . . . a commentary destined to be subject to the rigorous test of constant use.

—G. B. Caird, Expository Times

C. K. Barrett is Emeritus Professor of Divinity at the University of Durham. He is especially known for having authored numerous scholarly articles and books, including Commentary on St. John, The First Epistle to the Corinthians, The Second Epistle to the Corinthians (in this collection), The New Testament Background: Selected Documents, and Acts, part of the International Critical Commentaries.

The Second Epistle to the Corinthians

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Editor: Morna D. Hooker
• Series: Black's New Testament Commentary (BNTC)
• Pages: 384

Sample pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

 

2 Corinthians is one of the most difficult writings in the New Testament to interpret. Yet, this commentary, which follows Barrett's works on Romans and 1 Corinthians in the same series, is superb in every respect. The author's command of the Greek language, his skillful use of the Old Testament and background writings, and his sensitive handling of complex exegetical problems provide a panorama of a mature scholar's work which is at times almost breathtaking. Moreover, the restrained use of Greek and technical terms makes this commentary as useful for the layman or pastor as it is for the scholar.

—Review and Expositor

It is clear. . . . that we are here under the guidance of one who is not only an expert scholar but also an experienced commentator.

—The Expository Times

These [the Corinthian letters and Romans] are among the greatest of New Testament writings and Barrett is among the greatest of present day commentators. He has put us all very much in his debt with his earlier works and this latest volume does nothing to diminish our gratitude. . . . This book will take its place as a standard work and will enrich our studies for years to come.

—Churchman

C. K. Barrett is Emeritus Professor of Divinity at the University of Durham. He is especially known for having authored numerous scholarly articles and books, including Commentary on St. John, The First Epistle to the Corinthians, The Second Epistle to the Corinthians (in this collection), The New Testament Background: Selected Documents, and Acts, part of the International Critical Commentaries.

Acts: Volume 1

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Series: International Critical Commentary Series (ICC)
• Publisher: T&T Clark
• Publication Date: 1994
• Pages: 692

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Acts is one of the most theologically-rich New Testament books. Charting Paul’s missionary journeys, as well as the beginnings of the early church, C. K. Barrett’s commentary provides solid biblical truth for today.

The commentary proper, which is on the Greek text, engages with a wide range of scholarship; readers will find much to argue with and—hesitantly—dissent from, but they will certainly find themselves indebted to its richness and clarity. This is essentially a work for the scholar’s library, and institutions serious about New Testament study will ensure that they have it on their shelves.

—Peter Doble, Theological Book Review

The discussion of textual variants is careful and detailed. Again and again, Barrett provides valuable insights on the grammar and syntax of Luke’s Greek, and students who read Acts in intermediate or advanced Greek classes will have frequent occasion to bless the author for his help.

—Anvil

C. K. Barrett was professor emeritus of divinity in Durham University.

Acts: Volume 2

• Author: C. K. Barrett
• Series: International Critical Commentary Series (ICC)
• Publisher: T&T Clark
• Publication Date: 1998
• Pages: 1,272

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Acts is one of the most theologically rich New Testament books. Charting Paul’s missionary journeys, as well as the beginnings of the early church, C. K. Barrett’s commentary provides solid biblical truth for today.

A number of commentaries on the Acts of the Apostles have recently been published, especially in the US; this one ranks among the best given the wealth of information it provides.

—Nouvelle Revue Theologique

With this second volume, eminent British biblical scholar C. K. Barrett completes his contribution to the prestigious ICC series. As with the first volume published in 1994, Barrett’s commentary on the Greek texts of Acts is thorough and lucid, addressing the literary, historical and theological dimensions of the text. This two-volume work will remain a classic source on Acts for serious students of the New Testament.

—Donald Senior, The Bible Today

The commentary proper, which is on the Greek text, engages with a wide range of scholarship; readers will find much to argue with and—hesitantly—dissent from, but they will certainly find themselves indebted to its richness and clarity. This is essentially a work for the scholar’s library, and institutions serious about New Testament study will ensure that they have it on their shelves.

—Peter Doble, Theological Book Review

The discussion of textual variants is careful and detailed. Again and again, Barrett provides valuable insights on the grammar and syntax of Luke’s Greek, and students who read Acts in intermediate or advanced Greek classes will have frequent occasion to bless the author for his help.

—Anvil

C. K. Barrett was professor emeritus of divinity in Durham University.

1 & 2 Timothy and Titus

• Author: Robert W. Wall
• Series: Two Horizons Commentary Series
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2012
• Pages: 432

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This theological commentary on 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by Robert Wall powerfully demonstrates the ongoing relevance and authority of the Pastoral Epistles for the church today. Wall uniquely employs an apostolic “Rule of Faith” methodology for interpreting these texts as sacred Scripture. Three successive historical case studies by Richard Steele vividly instantiate key themes of the Pastorals. This innovative yet reverent volume will help revive the interest of students, pastors, and other Christian leaders in the Pastoral Epistles.

I commend Rob Wall for offering us, and the wider church, his canonical readings of the Pastoral Epistles. Rob does not shy away from the many tough passages in these letters, always trying to present what he sees as the “plain sense” of the text in relation to other historical, ecclesial, and cultural understandings. The combination of commentary and reading by the ‘rule of faith’—supplemented by three interesting case studies—provides a thorough canonical understanding of these crucial letters from the standpoint of one who is immersed in what it means to understand the Bible as the church’s book.

—Stanley E. Porter, president, dean of theology, and professor of New Testament, McMaster Divinity College

Those of us who are long-standing admirers of Rob Wall’s work will recognize that the Pastoral Epistles, with all of their critical baggage, provide the perfect backdrop for his canonical approach to Scripture. Wall never shrinks back from crucial questions. Nevertheless, he carefully and confidently interprets the Pastorals as full members of the canon. His readings are theologically apt and lively, shaped and regulated by the church’s faith.

—Stephen Fowl, chair of the department of theology, Loyola College

Robert W. Wall is Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Studies at Seattle Pacific University.

1 Peter

• Author: Joel B. Green
• Series: Two Horizons Commentary Series
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 345

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Even though the letter of 1 Peter has sometimes been overshadowed by Paul’s many New Testament letters, it is nonetheless distinctive for the clarity with which it presents the Christian message. In this volume Joel Green offers a clear paragraph-by-paragraph analysis of 1 Peter and, even more, unpacks the letter’s theology in ways that go beyond the typical modern commentary. Following Green’s paragraph-by-paragraph commentary is an extended discussion of the “theological horizons” of 1 Peter. Throughout his study Green brings the message of 1 Peter into conversation with Christian theologians—ancient and contemporary—so that the challenge of this letter for Christian faithfulness can be heard more clearly today.

Joel B. Green is professor of New Testament interpretation and associate dean for the Center of Advanced Theological Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California.

2 Peter & Jude

• Author: Ruth Anne Reese
• Series: Two Horizons Commentary Series
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 244

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Ruth Anne Reese explores the theological and literary meaning of 2 Peter and Jude with an emphasis on theology for the church today. She seeks to meld together the best tools derived from the disciplines of both biblical studies and theology. Reese’s 2 Peter and Jude begins with a general introduction to the two books and proceeds to look at each text, exploring the meaning of particular words and illuminating the text with elements of history, sociology, and literary study. The themes of each book—and how they are played out throughout the biblical canon—are examined from an explicitly theological angle. Reese brings together insights from the best of biblical scholarship with the work of theologians, both contemporary and ancient. The combination of disciplines leads to new insights on such issues as judgment, community living, and the relationship between faith and ethics.

Ruth Anne Reese is associate professor of New Testament at Asbury Seminary, Wilmore, Kentucky. She is also the author of Writing Jude: The Reader, the Text and The Author in Constructs of Power and Desire.

The Letter to the Hebrews in the Social-Scientific Perspective

• Author: David A. deSilva
• Series: Cascade Companions Series
• Publisher: Cascade
• Publication Date: 2012
• Pages: 204

A great deal of mystery surrounds the book of Hebrews, especially regarding its authorship, date, and audience. However, by asking the right kind of questions, one can move beyond the impasses typical of historical investigation of the book. In this volume, David deSilva explores Hebrews through a social-scientific lens, asking one of the most important questions when interpreting letters and sermons: What was going on in the community to occasion such a response? DeSilva looks for clues concerning the anonymous author, his education level, the influence of the Greek environment, and his perception of his own authority. In addition, by forming a social profile of the audience that includes location, ethnicity, and class status, deSilva brings to light the author’s aims of helping protect Christian converts from persecution and social shame. This book not only helps the sermon “to the Hebrews” take on flesh and blood for contemporary readers; it also expands the readers’ tools for asking fresh questions and exploring new dimensions in biblical texts.

Modern readers too often forget that the sermon we call Hebrews—a powerful, timeless word that reaches to the heavens—was written in a nitty-gritty, socio-cultural context and was profoundly shaped by that context . . . Whether analyzing the author’s rhetorical strategy, the demands of gratitude upon the audience, or the shaping of social identity in a religious group, deSilva provides his readers with a new lens through which to follow the author’s arguments and assess the implications for ‘hearing’ Hebrews in the modern world.

—George H. Guthrie, Union University

David deSilva is a recognized expert in socio-rhetorical analysis, honor-shame discourse, and the Epistle to the Hebrews. All three converge in this slender but rich volume. It is conversant with modern theory, but thoroughly rooted in the ancient sources. While chiefly focused on the first century biblical message, deSilva’s analysis will also help modern readers to be shaped and sustained by this ‘word of exhortation’ (Heb 13:22).

—N. Clayton Croy, Trinity Lutheran Seminary

David A. deSilva is a Trustees’ Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio, and an ordained elder in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. He is the author of 20 books, including Global Readings: A Sri Lankan Commentary on Paul’s Letter to the Galatians; Seeing Things John’s Way: The Rhetoric of the Book of Revelation; An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods & Ministry Formation; Introducing the Apocrypha; and Perseverance in Gratitude: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary on the Epistle “to the Hebrews”.

The Call to Contentment: Life Lessons from the Beatitudes

• Authors: Norman G. Wilson and Jerry Brecheisen
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2002
• Pages: 96

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When life is tough, God is still enough! Let The Call to Contentment help you learn the secret to being content regardless of your circumstances. Follow the authors through the Beatitudes—Jesus' classic teaching on happiness—and you'll discover the secrets to belonging, forgiveness, and peace. As they unpack these simple statements by the Master teacher, you'll feel the call to contentment settle upon your own heart.

Norman G. Wilson was Executive Director and the voice of the Wesleyan Hour from 1976–2008. He has written numerous articles and editorials.

Jerry Brecheisen serves as Director of Communications for The Wesleyan Church and Managing Editor of Wesleyan Life.

God's Story Revealed: A Guide for Understanding the Old Testament

• Author: Stephen Lennox
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 320

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Many people want to learn more about the Bible but don't know where to begin. Dr. Stephen Lennox solves that problem by showing how God's amazing plan unfolds through each of the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament. In this concise introduction, Lennox focuses on the big picture of the Old Testament while providing important information about the history and culture of ancient times. You will learn how each book fits into God's overall story and plan and how it impacts your life.

This accessible volume includes:

• Concise introduction, overview, and reading tips for each book
• Interesting articles that dig deeper into important questions and concepts
• Useful summaries of key facts such as author, date of writing, and purpose

You will

• See the big picture of the Old Testament
• See how God worked over hundreds of years to prepare for the coming of Christ
• Understand the unique message of each Old Testament book
• Realize why the Old Testament is important for Christians today

God's Story Revealed will open up brand new possibilities for your study of the Old Testament!

Stephen J. Lennox is Professor of Bible and Theology at Indiana Wesleyan University. Ordained in The Wesleyan Church, he pastored ten years before joining the IWU faculty. Dr. Lennox has written numerous articles, three books, and is an associate editor of Religious and Theological Abstracts.

God's Plan Fulfilled: A Guide for Understanding the New Testament

• Author: Kenneth Schenck
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 320

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Many Christians are familiar with a few favorite Bible verses but have little idea how to understand the entire New Testament. Dr. Schenck guides your study of Scripture, showing how God's great plan for the world comes to fulfillment in the startling claim that "Jesus is Lord!"

In this easy-to-grasp text, Schenck walks step-by-step through each book of the New Testament, helping you see its overarching story in the context of ancient history and culture. You will come to see Jesus and His disciples not as characters in a story but as real people who lived in the real world. From Matthew to Revelation, this helpful resource provides a basic understanding of each New Testament book.

This highly readable guide includes:

• At-a-glance introduction and overview of each book
• Background information to illuminate your study
• Questions for personal reflection or group discussion and application

You will

• See the big picture of the New Testament
• Understand how God's story finds fulfillment in Jesus
• Discover the unique contribution of each New Testament book
• Learn how the New Testament connects with our lives today

God's Plan Fulfilled is an essential resource for your personal study and spiritual growth!

Kenneth Schenck is Academic Dean and Professor of New Testament and Christian Ministry at Wesley Seminary in Marion, Indiana. He is an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church. Dr. Schenck is the author of five books including Making Sense of God's Word and a commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Wesleyan Bible Study Commentary series.

Making Sense of God's Word

• Author: Kenneth Schenck
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 96

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This practical guide offers real help for ordinary Christians who want to read God's Word and understand it for themselves. Schneck skillfully guides readers through key issues for understanding the Bible in its context and offers practical principles for applying scriptural truths to real life.

Making Sense of God's Word will give you confidence to read and understand the Bible so that you can hear God's message for yourself!

Kenneth Schenck is Academic Dean and Professor of New Testament and Christian Ministry at Wesley Seminary in Marion, Indiana. He is an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church. Dr. Schenck is the author of five books including God's Plan Fulfilled and a commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Wesleyan Bible Study Commentary series.

Paul: Messenger of Grace

• Author: Kenneth Schenck
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 192

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Some say he seized onto the simple faith of Jesus and corrupted it. But most see him as a humble servant who was only carrying out the mission of his King. Who was this long-ago tentmaker and missionary, and what do his life and writings have to teach me today?

Author Kenneth Schenck bridges time and culture to bring you Paul: Messenger of Grace. Immerse yourself in the world of one of history's most polarizing figures to learn about his background, his conversion, his missionary journeys, and his letters. But this is not just a history book; each chapter concludes with the author's reflections about how Paul's life and letters can help shape our own lives.

This book covers the earlier part of Paul's life and ministry including the Bible books of 1Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, and Philippians.

Kenneth Schenck is Academic Dean and Professor of New Testament and Christian Ministry at Wesley Seminary in Marion, Indiana. He is an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church. Dr. Schenck is the author of five books including Making Sense of God's Word and a commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Wesleyan Bible Study Commentary series.

A Thousand Tongues: The Wesley Hymns as a Guide to Scriptural Teaching

• Author: John Lawson
• Publisher: Paternoster
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 224

The hymns of Charles Wesley (1707–1788) have given voice to the worship of generations of believers in all Christian traditions. Wesley is without doubt one of the best known Christian songwriters of all time. As an Evangelical believer his songs are absolutely saturated with biblical theology, references and allusions. Sadly many modern worshippers miss the depths of Wesley's hymns because they fail to catch the many echoes of Scripture contained in them.

In this classic study John Lawson provides an entry and introduction to Christian doctrine through the gateway that is Wesley's hymns. The book is organized around fifty-three short chapters on theological doctrines:

• God the Sovereign Creator
• Revelation
• The Divine Son
• Christ our High Priest
• The Holy Spirit
• Grace
• Holiness

Each brief chapter provides a succinct introduction to Wesley's thinking on the topic followed by some hymns that focus on it. The hymns are annotated with many biblical references to help readers uncover the Scriptural thinking behind the songs.

Wesley was committed to seeing his hymns as a means of teaching Christian truths and in this book John Lawson helps a new generation to appreciate the rich connections between worship and theology.

John Lawson (1909–2003) was a Methodist minister in England and later a lecturer in Church History, Historical Theology, Wesleyan History and Wesleyan Theology at Candler School of Theology.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 1: Psalms 1–36

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1847
• Pages: 420

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This volume includes a preface to the series by Rev. C. Marriott and covers Psalms 1–36 with notes and indexes on Augustine’s presentation of this sacred Scripture.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 2: Psalms 37–52

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1847
• Pages: 408

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This volume of Augustine’s Expositions examines Psalms 37–52.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 3: Psalms 53–75

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1849
• Pages: 533

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This volume contains an introductory note by Rev. C. Marriott and examines Augustine’s powerful and practical applications of Psalms 53–75.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 4: Psalms 76–101

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1850
• Pages: 496

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A brief introductory note prefaces this volume, which examines Psalms 76–101. Augustine’s genius continues to reveal itself in his interpretation of the sometimes allegorical language of the Psalms.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 5: Psalms 102–125

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1853
• Pages: 547

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This volume begins with an introductory note and goes on to discuss Psalms 102–125. Augustine’s relentless pursuit of truth and application to daily life are again evidenced.

Expositions on the Book of Psalms, vol. 6: Psalms 126–150

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translators: E.B. Pusey, H. Walford, and Charles Marriott
• Series: A Library of Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church
• Publisher: F. J. Rivington
• Publication Date: 1857
• Pages: 548

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This volume begins with a note by E. B. Pusey on the completion of the series. Augustine’s earnestness and his heart for humanity show throughout his expositions of the Psalms, concluding with Psalms 126–150.

The Gospel of Common Sense as Contained in the Canonical Epistle of James

• Author: Charles F. Deems
• Publisher: Wilbur B. Ketcham
• Publication Date: 1888
• Pages: 340

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Synopsizing the Epistle of James as the "Gospel of Common Sense," Charles F. Deems provides practical exegesis that emphasizes the entailment of responsibility within Christianity.

It speaks for itself, and if read will be valued and held tenaciously as by one that findeth great spoil.

—The Methodist Review

Charles F. Deems (1820–1893) was educated at Dickinson College before becoming Pastor of the Methodist church at Asbury, New Jersey n 1840. Deems later went on to become Professor of Rhetoric at the University of North Carolina, Professor of Natural Sciences at Randolph Macon College, and President of Greensbro Female College. Charles F. Deems was notable for founding the American Institute of Christian Philosophy.

Reading the Epistles of James, Peter, John & Jude as Scripture: The Shaping and Shape of a Canonical Collection

• Author: Robert W. Wall and David R. Nienhuis
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2013
• Pages: 332

Through a detailed examination of the historical shaping and final canonical shape of seven oft-neglected New Testament letters James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, and Jude, this text introduces readers to the historical, literary, and theological integrity of this indispensable apostolic witness. While most modern scholars interpret biblical texts against the diversity of their individual historical points of composition, Robert Wall and David Nienhuis make the case that a theological approach to the Bible as Scripture is better served by attending to issues that occasioned these texts’ historical point of canonization—those key moments in the ancient church’s life when apostolic writings were grouped together into collections designed to maximize the Spirit’s communication of the apostolic rule of faith to believers everywhere.

In this groundbreaking book David Nienhuis and Robert Wall show that the New Testament collection called the ‘Catholic Epistles’ has a structure and a rationale that profoundly impact the way its individual texts should be read. Like the fourfold canonical Gospel, this collection represents a decisive intervention in the process of creating a well-ordered Christian scripture out of the mass of early Christian writing.

—Francis Watson, professor of New Testament Exegesis, University of Aberdeen

In this eloquent challenge to current exegetical communis opinio, the authors argue forcefully for a reading of the seven Catholic Epistles as a canonical unit, which then reveals their common theology, their collective role in the scriptural canon as balance to the Pauline letters, and their cogent apostolic instruction on Christian discipleship and community both in antiquity and in today’s world.

—John H. Elliott, professor of theology, University of San Francisco

David Nienhuis and Robert Wall argue that if we shift our focus from the point of composition to much later matters of canonization, we can begin to see that the Catholic Epistles as a group round out and enrich the theological emphases of the Gospels and Paul’s letters in ways that form a more complete and even more attractive canonical whole. . . . Nienhuis and Wall present a challenging argument sustained by detailed theological attention to the canonical process and by close and lively readings of the Catholic Epistles. If taken up, their views can dramatically alter the interpretive patterns and concerns the church and the academy bring to these letters.

—Stephen E. Fowl, chair of the department of theology, Loyola College

Robert W. Wall is the Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Studies at Seattle Pacific University. In addition to his commentary on Revelation, he has authored numerous journal articles and several books, including commentaries on Colossians/Philemon, James, Acts, and the Pastoral Epistles.

David R. Nienhuis is associate professor of New Testament studies at Seattle Pacific University.

The Historical Jesus of the Gospels

• Author: Craig S. Keener
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2012
• Pages: 869

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The earliest substantive sources available for historical Jesus research are in the Gospels themselves; when interpreted in their early Jewish setting, their picture of Jesus is more coherent and plausible than are the competing theories offered by many modern scholars. So argues Craig Keener in The Historical Jesus of the Gospels.

In exploring the depth and riches of the material found in the Synoptic Gospels, Keener shows how many works on the historical Jesus emphasize just one aspect of the Jesus tradition against others, but a much wider range of material in the Jesus tradition makes sense in an ancient Jewish setting. Keener masterfully uses a broad range of evidence from the early Jesus traditions and early Judaism to reconstruct a fuller portrait of the Jesus who lived in history.

With critical acumen, Craig Keener presents a comprehensive account of the study of the historical Jesus. It will be a boon for all readers—inquisitive laypeople, pastors, students of the Gospels, and biblical colleagues.

—Joseph A. Fitzmyer, emeritus professor of New Testament, Catholic University of America

Keener proves why the Evangelists’ view of Jesus is preferable to most modern constructs: the Gospels, as ancient biographies, reflect eyewitness accounts of Jesus and provide the only valid sources for reconstructing the historical Jesus. . . . This book is exceptional for its breadth and its captivating prose.

—James H. Charlesworth, George L. Collord Professor of New Testament Language and Literature, Princeton Theological Seminary

Historical Jesus research has developed in the last decades from a ‘postminimalism’ concerning the authenticity of Jesus traditions to a new ‘moderate confidence’ in the historicity of the Gospels. Craig Keener’s book is both a milestone and a boundary stone in this development. By contextualizing the sources of Jesus research and Jesus himself, Keener succeeds in increasing the historical plausibility of the Gospels to a degree that is exceptional among critical exegetes. Therefore this book must be read and taken seriously—both by those exegetes who are reluctant to support this ‘historical-critical maximalism’ in Jesus research and by those reluctant to contextualize Jesus in such a way. But both will enjoy reading what Keener has written with an open and critical mind.

—Gerd Theissen, professor of New Testament theology, University of Heidelberg

Craig S. Keener is professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary, Wilmore, Kentucky. He is the author of many other books, including The Gospel of Matthew: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary and The Gospel of John: A Commentary (two volumes). Three of his books have won awards and together have sold over half a million copies.

Called to Lead: Paul’s Letters to Timothy for a New Day

• Author: Anthony B. Robinson and Robert W. Wall
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2012
• Pages: 255

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In this volume, pastoral leader Anthony Robinson and biblical scholar Robert Wall expound on Paul’s two pastoral letters to Timothy, which contain crucial messages for churches today. Featuring both careful exegetical study and dynamic contemporary exposition, Called to Lead interprets the text of 1 and 2 Timothy as Scripture and applies it to today’s church—without shying away from vexing issues such as the church’s use of money, leadership succession, pastoral authority, and the role of Scripture.

For a very long time the pastor-to-pastor Pauline letters to Timothy have been marginalized by some and grossly misinterpreted by others. It is now time for us to rediscover these letters and to put them into imaginative conversation with the contemporary realities of church and culture. That is precisely what this fine study accomplishes with exegetical care, theological acumen, and pastoral insight. Seminarians, ministers, and other leaders in Christian congregations should read Called to Lead carefully and consider together its potentially transformative implications for the church.

—Michael J. Gorman, Raymond E. Brown Chair, St. Mary’s Seminary and University

Full of down-to-earth biblical wisdom, Called to Lead reminds us that there’s not a leadership issue we can come up with that hasn’t been addressed by Scripture already. . . . The chapter on lay ministry is already worth the price of the book.

—Lillian Daniel, senior minister, First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ

Anthony B. Robinson travels throughout North America as a speaker, teacher, preacher, consultant, and coach serving congregations and their leaders. He is also president of the Seattle-based Congregational Leadership Northwest and an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. He is the author of the award-winning What’s Theology Got to Do with It?, and Stewardship for Vital Congregations.

Robert W. Wall is Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Study at Seattle Pacific University.

Called to Be Church: The Book of Acts for a New Day

• Authors: Robert W. Wall and Anthony B. Robinson
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication Date: 2006
• Pages: 298

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Biblical scholar Robert Wall and pastoral leader Anthony Robinson join forces to bring the Acts of the Apostles forward to our time as a resource for congregational renewal and transformation. Featuring both careful exegetical study and exciting contemporary exposition, the 15 chapters of Called to Be Church interpret the text of Acts as Scripture and then engage Acts for today’s church. This text dives into many of the most vexing issues faced by the church then and now—conflict resolution, pluralism and multiculturalism, sexuality, money, church and state, the role of the Holy Spirit, and much more.

Enhanced by study questions at the end of each chapter, Called to Be Church is well suited to small-group study. Pastors, lay readers, and students alike can find helpful and inspiring insights.

This splendid book offers a readable, accessible, stimulating, and engaging reading of Acts for today’s students, preachers, and thoughtful laypeople. Anthony Robinson and Robert Wall illuminate passage after passage through the creative interplay between Wall’s lucid exegetical discussions and Robinson’s fresh reflections on hearing Acts for today’s church

—Steve Walton, senior lecturer in Greek and New Testament studies and director of research, London School of Theology

The authors show the central place that the book of Acts occupies in the New Testament canon. They show that though Acts was originally Luke’s second volume, it played a far more important role as the pivot between the four Gospels and Paul’s letters . . . Following Irenaeus’ understanding of Acts, the authors sketch a view of ecumenism and catholicity that was not a uniformity of belief but a pluriformity of faith that reflected the high diversity among the early churches.

—James A. Sanders, professor emeritus, Claremont Graduate University

Robinson and Wall’s remarkably engaging interpretation of Acts ‘for a new day’ deftly combines expert scholarly exegesis with astute pastoral insight. Never settling for easy modern applications based on thin biblical analysis, the authors wrestle seriously with the book of Acts as living Scripture for today’s church and a prime resource for ecclesial renewal. This work represents a model bridging of biblical and contemporary horizons—an ideal text for seminary and Christian education classes.

—F. Scott Spencer, professor of New Testament, Baptist Theological Seminary

At last! We can put aside the latest book that attempts to analyze what is going on in the contemporary church. Tony Robinson and Rob Wall make the claim that one of the best ways to understand what is happening—and needs to happen—in the church today is found in a very old book indeed—the Acts of the Apostles . . . They amply demonstrate that the old, old story has not lost any of its power to renew us and the church we all care about.

—Martin B. Copenhaver, senior pastor, Wellesley Congregational Church

This is a splendid book. The two authors provide a winning combination—sound, up-to-date biblical scholarship, paying critical attention to hearing the story of Acts in its own time and place, combined with the equally vital task of paying attention to the critical issues that face churches today . . . Called to Be Church is a thought-provoking and insightful must-read for ministers and congregations across denominational and cultural divides.

—Loveday Alexander, professor of biblical Studies, University of Sheffield

Robert W. Wall is the Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Studies at Seattle Pacific University. In addition to his commentary on Revelation, he has authored numerous journal articles and several books, including commentaries on Colossians/Philemon, James, Acts, and the Pastoral Epistles.

Anthony B. Robinson travels throughout North America as a speaker, teacher, preacher, consultant, and coach, serving congregations and their leaders. He is also president of the Seattle-based Congregational Leadership Northwest and an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. His other books include the award-winning What’s Theology Got to Do with It? and Stewardship for Vital Congregations.

The Tongue of Fire: The True Power of Christianity

• Author: William Arthur
• Publisher: Harper & Brothers
• Publication Date: 1900
• Pages: 350

At the beginning of the twentieth century, The Tongue of Fire: The True Power of Christianity called the church to re-examine the power and provision of the Holy Spirit. In this text, Irish minister William Arthur reflects on the Spirit and the Pentecost, focusing on the symbolic imagery used to describe the Spirit’s descent on the church. Arthur’s work pushes against what he saw as the church’s formal, apathetic stance towards the Spirit, and seeks to revive the vitality of the church that comes through the Spirit.

The Tongue of Fire is an English classic far above the need of criticism from us. We have only to tell our readers that this is worthy to be the library edition for all future time. Those who have never read these flaming pages, should lose no time in doing so; especially those who wish to teach and preach Jesus.

—Charles H. Spurgeon, in The Sword and the Trowel.

The notoriety and the admiration which, in so brief a period, have already attended this publication, almost supersede the necessity of any special remarks from us . . . The circulation of so deeply spiritual, so pointedly practical, and so truly eloquent an appeal to Christian people, cannot fail of the happiest results.

—The Methodist Review

Among God’s greatest gifts to his church during the nineteenth century, ‘for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry,’ was his gift to the Wesleyan branch of the church, and through them to the whole church, and to the world— the gift of William Arthur . . . If every preacher would but read [The Tongue of Fire] through at least once a year it would certainly fire his soul with new enthusiasm for the souls of men.

—Homiletic Review

William Arthur (1819–1901) was a Wesleyan Methodist minister in Ireland. He began preaching as a local minister at 16 years old. He quickly established himself as a gifted preacher and writer, and he served as a missionary, lecturer, and speaker throughout his life. Crippled by illness, Arthur frequently lost his voice. When his voice was gone, he wrote his addresses and gave them to someone who could speak for him. His works include Successful Merchant and The Duty of Giving Away a Stated Portion of Our Income.

Jesus the Sage: The Pilgrimage of Wisdom

• Author: Ben Witherington III
• Publisher: Augsburg Fortress
• Publication Date: 2000
• Pages: 448

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In the early Jesus movement, wisdom in the person of Jesus was believed to have returned to heaven, exalted to the right hand of God, and to reign from there. But Jesus as wisdom had left both his legacy and his influence behind. The sayings of Jesus recorded in the Gospels reflect not only the influence of the Israelite wisdom traditions, but also the tradition of the personification of wisdom.

In this provocative volume, Ben Witherington provides both an introduction to Israel’s wisdom traditions and insight into how Jesus and his sayings fit in that tradition. Beyond this, he demonstrates the ongoing significance and influence of these traditions on other New Testament writings. He concludes that Jesus may be viewed primarily as a prophetic sage emphasizing instruction, insight, and humor in a vein counter to the dominant culture.

Ben Witherington has written what is not only an extremely learned and fundamental book but one that is of theological importance as well. He offers much essential information on the sapiential background of ancient Jewish wisdom and the Jesus tradition that was influential in the shaping of earliest Christology. He corrects misguided opinions and leads us into the heart of the teachings of Jesus. He thereby contributes to our knowledge of earliest Christian thought, its Jewish background as well as its creative and innovative identity.

—Martin Hengel, emeritus professor of New Testament and Early Judaism, University of Tübingen

Ben Witherington III is professor of New Testament interpretation at Asbury Theological Seminary in Kentucky. He is the author of numerous works, including The Jesus Quest and New Testament History: A Narrative Account.

The New Strong’s Concise Dictionary of the Words in the Greek Testament and The Hebrew Bible

• Author: James Strong
• Pages: 560

The New Strong’s Concise Dictionary of the Words in the Greek Testament and The Hebrew Bible provides readers of the Bible a definition for each Greek or Hebrew word—the same words behind Strong’s Concordance. James Strong is best known for his Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, which introduced a numbering system—one number assigned to each word in the original language. This companion volume to Strong’s Concordance treats these words in their Greek order, numbered from first to last. The numbering system renders easy reference without the use of Greek characters. For each word in Strong’s Concise Dictionary, the translation, pronunciation, etymology, meaning, and significance of the word are given. Strong’s unique numbering system makes the meaning of the Greek words available for English-only Bible study.

James Strong (1822–1894) was an American Methodist biblical scholar and educator, and creator of Strong’s Concordance. Strong was born in New York City and graduated at valedictorian from Wesleyan University.

Strong became a professor of ancient languages at Troy University, and published multiple works on the harmony of the Gospels and on the Greek text of the New Testament. In 1861, he became Professor of Exegetical Theology at Drew University, where he remained for twenty-seven years.

Synonyms of the New Testament

• Author: R. C. Trench
• Pages: xxx, 394

R. C. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament is one of the earliest and most-quoted authorities on NT Greek word studies. Many later writers are indebted to him for their understanding of this subtle language. In fact, Trench receives a special mention in the preface of both Vine’s and Vincent’s word studies and is quoted over 140 times by Wuest and 104 times in TDNT.

Now, for the first time in electronic format, you can go straight to the source and gain insight for yourself into hundreds of words with great theological significance!

Synonyms offers 107 entries that compare and relate more than 325 words drawn from the Greek NT. Trench’s analysis is detailed and thorough, reflecting the author’s deep love of languages. He reveals the differences in meaning and connotation between synonymous words, tracing words’ history and usage by classical and biblical writers.

Richard Chenevix Trench was educated at Trinity College before being appointed Theological Chair at King's College in London. Trench authored many books including Classic Commentaries and Studies on Revelation (27 vols.), Synonyms of the New Testament, and Sermons preached in Westminster Abbey.

Lexham Bible Dictionary

• Editor: John D. Barry
• Associate Editor: Lazarus Wentz
• Publisher: Lexham Press
• Publication Date: 2012

The Lexham Bible Dictionary is the world’s most advanced and up-to-date Bible dictionary, including contributions from hundreds of top scholars from around the world. As one of the first Bible dictionaries designed for digital, the Lexham Bible Dictionary combines biblical scholarship with regular updates and other digital-only features. Articles are divided into very specific subjects, which makes the entire dictionary more useable—so you get what you want, when you want it. The value of each article is also exponentially increased by hand-selected links to other articles. In addition, Lexham Bible Dictionary contains articles from some of the world’s top Bible scholars, and makes citations and bibliographies live links to the resources referenced whenever possible. The Lexham Bible Dictionary will answer your questions as they arise and expand your knowledge-base.

John D. Barry is the publisher for Lexham Press, editor-in-chief of Bible Study Magazine, general editor of Faithlife Study Bible, and editor of Lexham Bible Dictionary.

Lazarus Wentz is the associate editor of the Lexham Bible Dictionary and a contributor to the Faithlife Study Bible.

The Major Works of Anselm of Canterbury (4 vols.)

• Translator: M.R.
• Publisher: Burns and Oates
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 320

The thought and writing of Anselm of Canterbury has echoed through the fields of philosophy and theology for nearly 1,000 years. Widely considered the founder of scholasticism, Anselm’s method of study was rigorous and represented a seismic shift in medieval thought. In Saint Anselm’s Book of Meditations and Prayers the reader is brought into the very heart of this great saint’s spiritual experience, offering one of the first ontological arguments for the existence of God. The meditations discuss such topics as “the dignity and the woe of man’s estate,” “the penitent’s address to God his Father,” and “hope for the future.”

An Account of the Religious and Literary Life of Adam Clarke, vol. 1

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: T. Mason and G. Lane
• Publication Date: 1837
• Pages: 249

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An Account of the Religious and Literary Life of Adam Clarke, vol. 2

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: T. Mason and G. Lane
• Publication Date: 1837
• Pages: 265

An Account of the Religious and Literary Life of Adam Clarke, vol. 3

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: T. Mason and G. Lane
• Publication Date: 1837
• Pages: 320

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 1

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1802
• Pages: 301

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 2

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1803
• Pages: 308

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 3

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1803
• Pages: 327

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 4

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1803
• Pages: 314

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 5

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1804
• Pages: 314

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 6

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1804
• Pages: 360

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Bibliographical Miscellany, or Supplement to the Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 1

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1804
• Pages: 335

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Bibliographical Miscellany, or Supplement to the Bibliographical Dictionary, vol. 2

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: W. Baynes
• Publication Date: 1804
• Pages: 341

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Memoirs of the Wesley Family

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: G. Lane and C. B. Tippett
• Publication Date: 1848
• Pages: 670

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Preacher's Manual: Including Clavis Biblica, and a Letter to a Methodist Preacher

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: G. Lane & P. P. Sandford
• Publication Date: 1842
• Pages: 252

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

A Concise View of the Succession of Sacred Literature

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: Heney & Haddon
• Publication Date: 1807
• Pages: 312

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Life of Jacob Arminius

• Author: Caspar Brandt
• Translator: John Guthrie
• Publisher: Ward and Co.
• Publication Date: 1853
• Pages: 326

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

This in-depth biography covers the entire life of Jacob Arminius, from his early life and education to his final conference at the Hague in 1609. Friends and foes provide commentary on his life and work, and the impact of his teachings are explored in great detail.

The Works of Arminius, vol. 1

• Author: Jacob Arminius
• Translators: James Nichols and W. R. Bagnall
• Publisher: Derby, Orton and Mulligan
• Publication Date: 1853
• Pages: 668

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume 1 includes:

• Orations
• Declaration of Sentiments
• Apology Against Thirty-One Defamatory Articles
• Nine Questions Exhibited for the Purpose of Ontaining an Answer from Each of the Professors of Divinity, and the Replies which Jacob Arminius Gave to Them: With Other Nine Opposite Articles
• Remarks on the Preceding Questions
• Twenty-Five Public Disputations

The Works of Arminius, vol. 2

• Author: Jacob Arminius
• Translators: James Nichols and W. R. Bagnall
• Publisher: Derby, Orton and Mulligan
• Publication Date: 1853
• Pages: 538

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume 2 includes:

• Seventy-Nine Private Disptations
• Dissertation on the True and Genuine Sense of the Seventh Chapter of the Epistle to the Romans
• A Letter to Hippolytus A Collibus
• Certain Articles to Be Diligently Examined and Weighed
• A Letter on the Sin Against the Holy Ghost

The Works of Arminius, vol. 3

• Author: Jacob Arminius
• Translators: James Nichols and W. R. Bagnall
• Publisher: Derby, Orton and Mulligan
• Publication Date: 1853
• Pages: 570

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume 3 includes:

• Epistolary Discussion, Concerning Predestination, Between Jacob Arminius, D. D., and Francis Junius, D. D.
• Examination of a Treatise, Concerning the Order and Mode of Predestination and the Amplitude of Divine Grace, by William Perkins
• Analysis of the Ninth Chapter of the Epistle to the Romans

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 1

• Editor: George Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1868
• Pages: 380

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. George Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume one contains:

• Hymns and Sacred Poems, 1739
• Hymns and Sacred Poems, 1740
• Index to the First Lines

The Wesley poetry has stood the test of time, and is more in demand than it was 100 years ago. The volume is enriched by original notes, brief but illustrative; it is adorned with a beautiful portrait of the Rev. Charles Wesley, and it contains facsimiles of the old title-pages; which, together with the table of contents, the index, the headings to each poem and to every page, and the original prefaces and notes, give a completeness to the book we do not expect to see surpassed.

—The London Quarterly Review

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 2

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1869
• Pages: 373

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume two contains:

• A Collection of Psalms and Hymns, 1741
• Hymns and Sacred Poems, 1742
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 3

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1869
• Pages: 380

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume three contains:

• Hymns on God’s Everlasting Love (First Series)
• Hymns on God’s Everlasting Love (Second Series)
• Original Poems
• Hymns on the Lord’s Supper
• Gloria Patri; or, Hymns to the Trinity
• Graces
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 4

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1869
• Pages: 488

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume four contains:

• Hymns for Times of Trouble and Persecution
• Hymns in Times of Persecution
• Hymns to Be Sung in a Tumult
• Hymns for Times of Trouble, for the Year 1745
• Hymns for Times of Trouble
• Hymns for the Public Thanksgiving Day, October 9, 1746
• Hymns for the Nativity of Our Lord
• Hymns for Our Lord’s Resurrection
• Hymns for Ascension-Day
• Hymns of Petition and Thanksgiving for the Promise of the Father
• Hymns for Those That Seek and Those That Have Found Redemption in the Blood of Jesus Christ
• Hymns and Sacred Poems, vol. 1, part 1
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 5

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1869
• Pages: 492

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume five contains:

• Hymns and Sacred Poems, vol. 1, part 2
• Hymns and Sacred Poems, vol. 2, part 1
• Hymns and Sacred Poems, vol. 2, part 2
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 6

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1870
• Pages: 476

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume six contains:

• Hymns for a Protestant
• Hymns for New Year’s Day, 1750
• Hymns Occasioned by the Earthquake, March 8, 1750, part 1
• Hymns Occasioned by the Earthquake, March 8, 1750, part 2
• An Epistle to the Reverend Mr. John Wesley
• An Epistle to the Reverend Mr. George Whitefield
• Hymns for the Year 1756, Particularly for the Fast-Day, February 6
• Hymns for the Preachers among the Methodist (So-Called)
• Hymns of Intercession for All Mankind
• Hymns on the Expected Invasion, 1759, and for the Thanksgiving Day
• Hymns to Be Used on the Thanksgiving Day and After It
• Funeral Hymns
• Hymns for Children
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 7

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1870
• Pages: 452

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume seven contains:

• Hymns for the Use of Families, and on Various Occasions
• Hymns on the Trinity
• Preparation for Death, in Several Hymns
• An Elegy on the Late Rev. George Whitefield
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 8

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1870
• Pages: 496

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume eight contains:

• Versions and Paraphrases of Select Psalms
• Hymns Written in the Time of the Tumults, June 1780
• Hymns for the Nation, in 1782
• Hymns for the National Fast
• Prayers for Condemned Malefactors
• Hymns for Love
• Hymns and Poems
• Epitaphs
• Miscellaneous Hymns and Poems
• Index to the First Lines

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 9

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1871
• Pages: 471

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume nine contains:

• Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, part 1: Genesis–Isaiah

Charles Wesley’s Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures contains over 2,000 short hymns on selected Bible passages. This sought after poetic-commentary covers the Old and New Testaments.

The interest which attaches to the Wesleyan poetry is not due merely to its intrinsic excellence. They groan under the mortal anguish of repentance; they throb and quiver with the throes of the new birth; they swell with the triumphs of faith, the full glories of a present salvation. The whole vitality, not only of the poet, but of his people and the Lord’s, is in them.

—Bibliotheca Sacra and Theological Review

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 10

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1871
• Pages: 502

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume ten contains:

• Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, part 2: Jeremiah–Mark

Charles Wesley’s Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures contains over 2,000 short hymns on selected Bible passages. This sought-after, poetic commentary covers the Old and New Testaments.

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 11

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1871
• Pages: 512

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume 11 contains:

• Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, part 2: Mark–John

Charles Wesley’s Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures contains over 2,000 short hymns on selected Bible passages. This sought-after, poetic commentary covers the Old and New Testaments.

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 12

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1871
• Pages: 456

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume 12 contains:

• Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, part 3: John–Acts

Charles Wesley’s Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures contains over 2,000 short hymns on selected Bible passages. This sought-after, poetic commentary covers the Old and New Testaments.

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, vol. 13

• Editor: G. Osborn
• Publisher: Wesleyan-Methodist Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 529

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The poetical publications of John and Charles Wesley originally appeared at various intervals during a span of 53 years. G. Osborn has collected, arranged, and provided notes for all of these important poems and hymns. Many of these works, especially those of Charles Wesley’s (whose work makes up the bulk of this collection), were never before published or published anonymously. Charles Wesley was the author of more than 6,000 hymns, and today, more than 500 hymns of John and Charles Wesley are in common use in various hymnals.

Volume thirteen contains:

• Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, part 4: Romans–Revelation
• Appendix—Containing Hymns and Poems from Various Sources
• Chronological List of the Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley Reprinted in These Volumes

Charles Wesley’s Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures contains over 2,000 short hymns on selected Bible passages. This sought-after, poetic commentary covers the Old and New Testaments.

George Osborn (1808–1891) was a Methodist minister and a professor of divinity at Richmond College from 1868–1885. A noted expository preacher and a founding member of the Evangelical Alliance, Osborn also penned the two-volume Outlines of Wesleyan Bibliography.

The Journal of the Rev. Charles Wesley, vol. 1

• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: John Mason
• Publication Date: 1849
• Pages: 466

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Journal of the reverend Charles Wesley begins in 1736, with Charles Wesley’s arrival at Frederica, a month after the brothers “first set foot on American ground.” A stirring account of colonial life, these journals provide a picture of his difficulties in Georgia, the happy scenes of Whit Week 1738, the first days of the Evangelical Revival with the triumphs of the field preaching, the perils of the mob, and the gradual spread of Methodism. Includes selections from his correspondence and poetry. Volume 1 covers the years 1736–1747.

Thomas Jackson (1783–1873) joined the Methodist society in 1801 and from 1804–1824 he was an itinerant in the Wesleyan connection, occupying important circuits. He was professor of divinity in the Theological College at Richmond from 1842–1861. Jackson was the author and editor of numerous works, including The Life of John Goodwin, Memoirs of the Life and Writings of the Rev. Richard Watson, A Library of Christian Biography, and The Institutions of Christianity.

The Journal of the Rev. Charles Wesley, vol. 2

• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: John Mason
• Publication Date: 1849
• Pages: 494

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Journal of the Rev. Charles Wesley begins in 1736, with Charles Wesley’s arrival at Frederica, a month after the brothers “first set foot on American ground.” A stirring account of colonial life, these journals provide a picture of his difficulties in Georgia, the happy scenes of Whit Week 1738, the first days of the Evangelical Revival with the triumphs of the field preaching, the perils of the mob, and the gradual spread of Methodism. Includes selections from his correspondence and poetry. Volume 2 covers the years 1748–1756.

Thomas Jackson (1783–1873) joined the Methodist society in 1801 and from 1804–1824 he was an itinerant in the Wesleyan connection, occupying important circuits. He was professor of divinity in the Theological College at Richmond from 1842–1861. Jackson was the author and editor of numerous works, including The Life of John Goodwin, Memoirs of the Life and Writings of the Rev. Richard Watson, A Library of Christian Biography, and The Institutions of Christianity.

A Sermon Preached on Sunday, April 4, 1742, Before the University of Oxford

• Author: Charles Wesley
• Publisher: W. Strahan
• Publication Date: 1742
• Pages: 29

This volume contains Charles Wesley’s stirring sermon on Ephesians 5:14.

A Short Commentary on the Church Catechism

• Author: Charles Wesley
• Publisher: S. Low
• Publication Date: 1836
• Pages: 74

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

In writing this commentary on the Catechism, Charles Wesley has endeavored to produce a succinct work from which young Christians would find important instruction and easy reference to the most important questions and doctrines of their faith. For each question and answer, Wesley provides the relevant Scripture. At the end of the commentary, Wesley also provides examination questions for self study and reflection.

Sermons of the Late Rev. Charles Wesley

• Author: Charles Wesley
• Publisher: Baldwin, Cradock, and Joy
• Publication Date: 1816
• Pages: 244

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

In the eighteenth century, traveling from place to place and preaching in the open air was extraordinary and new, and it was certainly irregular. Seeking to diffuse knowledge and awaken a sense of religion in the common people, brothers John and Charles Wesley, along with their friend and fellow preacher George Whitefield, excited the astonishment as well as the censure of the public with their preaching.. They felt it was of utmost importance to educate the common people in the principles of religion and the social duties of life—even if it meant preaching the Word in open-air fields against tradition. Sermons of the Late Rev. Charles Wesley brings together 13 of Charles’ best sermons, each characterized with his poetic style and spirit-filled love for God.

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

• Author: Charles Wesley
• Publisher: K. P. Dutton and Company
• Publication Date: 1889
• Pages: 30

K. P. Dutton and Company produced this beautiful pairing of Charles Wesley’s beloved hymn “Hark! The Herald Angel Sings” with illustrations from some of history’s greatest artists, including Raphael, Carlo Dolci, Sir Joshua Reynolds, and more.

The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley, vol. 1

• Author: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: John Mason
• Publication Date: 1841
• Pages: 591

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Thomas Jackson’s The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley is a comprehensive and faithful record of the life of remarkable preacher and poet Charles Wesley. Jackson intertwines the rise and progress of Methodism while providing a complete account of Charles’ life and writings. Includes personal letters, poems, hymns, historical documents, sermons, essays, and more.

Mr. Jackson may be called, in an especial manner, the historian of Methodism, and is probably one of the best-read and most useful men in the connexion.

—The Church of England Quarterly Review

Thomas Jackson (1783–1873) joined the Methodist society in 1801 and from 1804–1824 he was an itinerant in the Wesleyan connection, occupying important circuits. He was professor of divinity in the Theological College at Richmond from 1842–1861. Jackson was the author and editor of numerous works, including The Life of John Goodwin, Memoirs of the Life and Writings of the Rev. Richard Watson, A Library of Christian Biography, and The Institutions of Christianity.

The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley, vol. 2

• Author: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: John Mason
• Publication Date: 1841
• Pages: 578

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Thomas Jackson’s The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley is a comprehensive and faithful record of the life of remarkable preacher and poet Charles Wesley. Jackson intertwines the rise and progress of Methodism while providing a complete account of Charles’ life and writings. Includes personal letters, poems, hymns, historical documents, sermons, essays, and more.

Thomas Jackson (1783–1873) joined the Methodist society in 1801 and from 1804–1824 he was an itinerant in the Wesleyan connection, occupying important circuits. He was professor of divinity in the Theological College at Richmond from 1842–1861. Jackson was the author and editor of numerous works, including The Life of John Goodwin, Memoirs of the Life and Writings of the Rev. Richard Watson, A Library of Christian Biography, and The Institutions of Christianity.

The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley

• Author: John Telford
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1900
• Pages: 324

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

John Telford’s The Life of the Rev. Charles Wesley is an in-depth look at Charles Wesley’s life and the impact he had on the world. The biography brings the reader into contact with a wide and distinguished circle connected by friendship and admiration for Charles Wesley, with tributes from Isaac Watts, John Fletcher, Robert Southey, and more.

For popular use Mr. Telford’s biography of Charles Wesley has no competitor. One of the merits of the book is the just prominence given to his itinerant and evangelistic labors.

—The London Quarterly Review

John Telford (1851–1936) was educated at London University and was the editor for the Wesleyan Methodist Magazine. His numerous works include Life of John Wesley, The Story of Moses and Joshua: Its Lessons for Today, Women in the Mission Field, History of Lay Preaching in the Christian Church, and Man’s Partnership with Divine Providence.

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 1

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 532

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 2

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 537

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 3

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 507

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 4

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 512

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 5

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 504

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 6

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 527

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 7

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 540

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 8

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 516

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The Works of John Wesley, vol. 9

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 518

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 10

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 511

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 11

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 527

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 12

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 528

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Works of John Wesley, vol. 13

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 527

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The Works of John Wesley, vol. 14

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Thomas Jackson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Methodist Book Room
• Publication Date: 1872
• Pages: 532

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The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 1

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Robert Culley
• Publication Date: 1909
• Pages: 514

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The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 2

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1911
• Pages: 558

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The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 3

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1912
• Pages: 560

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The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 4

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1913
• Pages: 564

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 5

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1914
• Pages: 548

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 6

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1915
• Pages: 544

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 7

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1916
• Pages: 548

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The Journal of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 8

• Author: John Wesley
• Editor: Nehemiah Curnock
• Publisher: Charles H. Kelly
• Publication Date: 1916
• Pages: 502

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The Life and Times of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 1

• Author: L. Tylerman
• Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton
• Publication Date: 1870
• Pages: 564

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The Life and Times of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 2

• Author: L. Tylerman
• Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton
• Publication Date: 1876
• Pages: 618

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The Life and Times of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. 3

• Author: L. Tylerman
• Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton
• Publication Date: 1871
• Pages: 675

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The Works of the Reverend John Fletcher, vol. 1

• Author: John Fletcher
• Publisher: Carlton and Porter
• Publication Date: 1833
• Pages: 595

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Volume 1 includes:

• Five Checks to Antinomianism
• The Fictitious and the Genuine Creed
• An Equal Check to Pharisaism and Antinomianism, Part 1

The Works of the Reverend John Fletcher, vol. 2

• Author: John Fletcher
• Publisher: Carlton and Porter
• Publication Date: 1833
• Pages: 669

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Volume 2 includes:

• An Equal Check to Pharisaism and Antinomianism, Part 2: Scripture Scales, to Weigh the Gold of Gospel Truth
• The Doctrines of Grace and Justice
• The Reconciliation; or, An Easy Method to Unite the People of God
• Remarks on Mr. Toplady's Scheme of Christian and Philosophical Necessity
• Answer to Mr. Toplady's Vindication of the Decrees
• Polemical Essay

The Works of the Reverend John Fletcher, vol. 3

• Author: John Fletcher
• Publisher: Carlton and Porter
• Publication Date: 1833
• Pages: 619

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume 3 includes:

• The Portrait of St. Paul
• The Portrait of Lukewarm Ministers and False Apostles
• The Portrait of Paul, Part 2
• The Portrait of Paul, Part 3
• Socinianism Unscriptural
• Socinianism Unscriptural Continued, in Letters to the Rev. Mr. Wesley

The Works of the Reverend John Fletcher, vol. 4

• Author: John Fletcher
• Publisher: Carlton and Porter
• Publication Date: 1833
• Pages: 589

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Volume 4 includes:

• Selected Essays
• Discourse on the New Birth
• Nine Additional Sermons
• Brief Outlines of Thirty Sermons
• Fragments
• Posthumous Pieces
• Selected letters

The Life of the Rev. John W. de la Flechere

• Author: Joseph Benson
• Publisher: Carlton and Phillips
• Publication Date: 1854
• Pages: 378

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A biography of John Fletcher, reflecting on his life and work. Included are interviews with John Wesley, Fletcher's wife Mary Bosanquet, and more. Benson explores Fletcher's personal letters, his conversion to Christianity, his work as a dedicated minister, the process that led him to write on controversial subjects, and why, even when they disagreed with his theology, people were inspired by and drawn to him. An inspirational work on an inspirational man.

The Life of Mrs. Mary Fletcher

• Author: Henry Moore
• Publisher: J. Soule and T. Mason
• Publication Date: 1818
• Pages: 378

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This biography of Mary Fletcher, John Fletcher's wife, is not only inspiring, but historically important: Mary Bosanquet Fletcher was the first female authorized to preach in the Methodist Church. After the death of her husband, Mary continued in his duties for almost thirty years. Most of this biography is taken straight from her own diaries and letters, giving great insight into the mind of this faithful servant of God.

Selected Sermons of George Whitefield

• Author: George Whitefield
• Pages: 462

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George Whitefield, a friend of both John Wesley and Benjamin Franklin, is considered to be one of the instrumental forces in the beginning of what is known as “The Great Awakening”. Whitefield, an English itinerant preacher who was passionate in his oratory, attracted some of the largest crowds of his day. Thousands would gather in fields to hear him preach as he traveled both the English countryside and the colonies, soon to become the United States of America. Selected Sermons of George Whitefield contains over 50 of Whitefield’s sermons, on a variety of topics, and are still edifying to read and study today.

George Whitefield (1714–1770) was one of the founders of Methodism and influential in the spread of the Great Awakening in both Britain and the British North American colonies. He believed in preaching his sermons without notes in order to allow room for the Holy Spirit to guide his speaking, and was known for his theatrical delivery.

Whitefield studied at Oxford, where he met Charles and John Wesley. The Wesley brothers were a part of what was referred to as the “Holy Club” on campus, which Whitefield joined and by which he was quite influenced, later becoming the president. In 1738, he came to America for the first of seven trips he would make across the ocean. During this first trip, he founded the orphanage Bethseda just outside of Savannah, Georgia.

Throughout his life, he toured all over New England, England, Scotland, and Wales, preaching to crowds of up to tens of thousands at a time, greatly influencing the Great Awakening and the early Methodist Church.

St. Augustine’s Confessions, vol. 1

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translator: William Watts
• Series: Loeb Classical Library
• Publisher: Macmillan Co.
• Publication Date: 1912
• Pages: 235

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume one of Augustine’s Confessions contains “Book I” through “Book VIII.”

St. Augustine’s Confessions, vol. 1: Latin Text

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Series: Loeb Classical Library
• Publisher: Macmillan Co.
• Publication Date: 1912
• Pages: 235

This volume of Augustine’s Confessions contains the Latin text of “Book I” through “Book VIII.”

St. Augustine’s Confessions, vol. 2

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Translator: William Watts
• Series: Loeb Classical Library
• Publisher: Macmillan Co.
• Publication Date: 1912
• Pages: 239

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Volume two of Augustine’s Confessions contains “Book IX” through “Book XIII.”

St. Augustine’s Confessions, vol. 2: Latin Text

• Author: Augustine of Hippo
• Series: Loeb Classical Library
• Publisher: Macmillan Co.
• Publication Date: 1912
• Pages: 239

This volume of Augustine’s Confessions contains the Latin text of “Book IX” through “Book XIII.”

The Imitation of Christ

• Author: Thomas à Kempis
• Translators: Aloysius Croft and Harold Bolton
• Publisher: Logos Research Systems
• Publication Date: 1996
• Pages: 265

What does it mean to be a Christian? According to Thomas à Kempis, the Christian must completely imitate the life and example of Jesus Christ. In this classic treasure of Christian instruction, Thomas à Kempis challenges the believer to look intently upon the life of Christ and live in the pattern He established. This spiritual manual begins with the proper outward expressions of faith, moving quickly to the instruction of the reader's spiritual formation. All the while insisting that true imitation of Christ can only occur when the heart and mind are united to Christ.

40 Days to the Cross: Reflections from Great Thinkers

• Editors: Rebecca Van Noord and Jessi Strong
• Publisher: Lexham Press
• Publication Date: 2014

Immerse yourself in the season of Lent with 40 Days to the Cross. Reflect on the suffering, death and resurrection of Christ with writings from great thinkers—including early Church Fathers, medieval writers and influential pastors. This devotional will guide you through a time of confession, reading, and reflection during the 40 days leading to Easter.

Christians from many church traditions have marked the occasion of Jesus’ death and resurrection by a period of fasting known as Lent. The traditional calendar for Lent goes from Ash Wednesday to Easter, with exceptions for Sundays (always a feast day). 40 Days to the Cross will help you contemplate our shared experience of Jesus’ death and resurrection—the very center of our faith.

Rebecca Van Noord is the managing editor for Bible Study Magazine and coauthor of Connect the Testaments: A Daily Devotional.

Jessi Strong is the senior writer for Bible Study Magazine. She has also developed content for Faithlife Study Bible and Lexham Bible Dictionary.

Streams in the Desert

• Author: Lettie B. Cowman
• Publisher: Oriental Missionary Society
• Publication Date: 1925

Streams in the Desert is a beautiful, heart-felt devotional with 366 daily readings of prayerful meditations. L. B. Cowman, a missionary to Japan and China, has filled this enduring classic with insight into the richness of God’s provision and the purpose of His plan. Inspired by her experience as a missionary with her husband and as his caretaker when his poor health impaired him, this devotional will be of particular significance to those facing physical and/or spiritual suffering and trials. Through prose and poetry, Cowman reveals the trials, disappointments and detours she and her husband confronted as they served the Lord, making Streams in the Desert both firmly rooted in Scripture and personal experience.

The Ripple Church

• Author: Phil Stevenson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2004
• Pages: 186

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The Ripple Church will inspire you to become involved in church planting and provide practical steps for planting churches from existing congregations. This book effectively communicates the motivation, theory, and practice of planting new churches.

Phil Stevenson has led two of his congregations in the parenting of seven new churches. He is now a senior consultant and coach at New Church Specialties, an organization that assists in the starting and strengthening of churches worldwide.

5 Things Anyone Can Do to Lead Effectively

• Author: Phil Stevenson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 96

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Many people are hesitant to commit to leadership in the local church. This hesitancy is often the result of feeling unprepared or inadequate. Experienced leader Phil Stevenson reminds us that, with the right training, anyone can be an effective leader. This simple, easy-to-use resource will equip you to:

• Become a person of influence
• Serve others
• Communicate your vision clearly
• Cultivate meaningful relationships
• Model spiritual excellence

Phil Stevenson is a pastor who has led two of his congregations in the parenting of seven new churches. He is now a senior consultant and coach at New Church Specialties, an organization that assists in the starting and strengthening of churches worldwide.

Here Today, There Tomorrow: Unleashing Your Church’s Potential

• Author: Gary L. McIntosh
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 224

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Church leaders are frustrated. Larger churches are bogged down by the weight of their own organizations, and smaller churches struggle with an inability to get things moving.

Veteran leadership expert Gary L. McIntosh provides help to leaders of churches, regardless of size, who struggle to create workable plans to move their congregations forward. This book identifies the best practices on how to assess the unique identity of a church and design a plan for its future.

Loaded with case studies, resources, and chapter-by-chapter action plans, this practical resource contains everything a pastor needs to understand the planning process; identify the churches mission, values, and goals; and put it all together in a plan that works in the local setting.

Gary L. McIntosh is professor of Christian ministry and leadership at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, and president of the Church Growth Network. He has consulted with church leaders in more than five hundred churches from 55 denominations. He is the editor of Church Growth Network newsletter and the Journal of American Church Growth. He has written or co-authored more than 15 books and manuals.

Life Lessons for Leaders

• Author: Derric Johnson
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 128

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Pastors facing ministry leadership challenges often wonder what class they missed in Bible college or seminary that was supposed to help them deal with such challenges. They long for an experienced mentor, but a good one is hard to find.

Author and musician Derric Johnson presents a series of challenging and inspiring meditations based on leadership principles learned from his ministry mentor, Dr. Orval C. Butcher, founding pastor of Skyline Wesleyan Church in LaMesa, California. These leadership meditations offer insight, encouragement, and affirmation for pastors who want help developing their leadership capabilities.

Categories of meditations include introspection, risk and creativity, vision, personal growth, pushing on, stepping out, reaching out, mentoring, looking up, and kneeling down.

Derric Johnson is a renowned pastor, songwriter, musician, educator, author, and motivational speaker. He has been a specialty writer for Radio City Music Hall and served as creative consultant for Walt Disney World and Epcot Center. A Stanley Foundation lecturer, Johnson has written 10 books, including the bestselling The Wonder of Christmas.

Ministry Velocity: The Power for Leadership Momentum

• Author: Wayne Schmidt
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2011
• Pages: 256

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Pastors and church leaders often find the velocity of ministry to be a challenge. Sometimes it comes much too fast; other times it’s way too slow. How can you lead a church that is stalled to begin moving again in the right direction? And then, when you experience success, how do you maintain and harness that momentum to effectively lead the church to its next level?

Wayne Schmidt addresses both angles of the ministry velocity challenge and offers scriptural strategies for sustainable momentum. Based on biblical principles rooted in the leadership of Joshua, Schmidt teaches pastors how to lead through every phase of momentum, so that the church can capitalize on its God-given opportunities.

This highly practical volume provides pastors and church leaders much needed insight on understanding how to anticipate, create, and maintain ministry velocity.

Wayne Schmidt is vice president of Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, IN. Prior to that, he served more than 25 years as the senior pastor of Kentwood Community Church in Kentwood, MI, which grew to more than 2,600 average weekend attendees. He is the author of several books, including Soul Management and Power Plays.

Stan Toler’s Practical Guide to Hiring Staff: How to Recruit and Retain an Effective Ministry Team

• Author: Stan Toler
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 192

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

The most critical growth decision most pastors face is knowing when—and whom—to hire. Getting the right staff at the right time can make or break a congregation’s momentum. Drawing from his vast experience as a senior pastor and executive leader of large organizations, Stan Toler shares the secrets that will make your first hire the right one. Subjects include:

• Casting the vision for staff expansion
• Funding a new position
• Communicating vision to staff members
• Setting staff expectations
• Interviewing
• The first thirty days
• How to be a great boss

Stan Toler is general superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene. Toler began his pastoral career at the age of 17 and for several years taught seminars for Dr. John Maxwell’s INJOY Group, a leadership development institute. He has written more than 70 books, including ReThink Your Life, which debuted at number 23 on the CBA Christian Living bestsellers list.

Stan Toler’s Practical Guide for Ministry Transition: How to Navigate Pastoral Change Personally and Professionally

• Author: Stan Toler
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 192

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Am I done here? Do I have something further to offer this congregation? Is it time to seek a leadership position elsewhere? Or is this merely a case of “spring fever”?

Many pastors wrestle with questions like these each year, never sure if the time is right for a pastoral move. Veteran pastor Stan Toler comes alongside the pastor in transition to help assess the reasons for change and to make sure that the decision to move—and the move itself—will go smoothly. Based on decades of pastoral experience, Stan Toler offers wise counsel and timely insight into the issues of leaving your current parish while preparing for your next phase of ministry. Subjects include:

• Assessing your leadership potential
• Assessing your leadership fit
• Reasons to consider a change
• Reasons to consider staying
• Selecting your next ministry setting
• Presenting yourself well in person and in print
• Interviewing
• Negotiating compensation
• Family moving do’s and don’ts
• Establishing your new home
• The first 90 days of a new pastorate

Stan Toler is general superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene. Toler began his pastoral career at the age of 17 and for several years taught seminars for Dr. John Maxwell’s INJOY Group, a leadership development institute. He has written more than 70 books, including ReThink Your Life, which debuted at number 23 on the CBA Christian Living bestsellers list.

Preparing for Change Reaction: How to Introduce Change in Your Church

• Author: Bob Whitesel
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2008
• Pages: 224

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

This practical guide is designed to be used by church leaders with their boards as a tool for negotiating needed changes effectively. Author Bob Whitesel compellingly makes the case that new methodology can and must be embraced without altering a church’s beliefs or mission. He then offers a series of exercises to be undertaken jointly by church leaders that will result in the production of a master plan for managing change in the local church. Your team will:

• Understand which changes threaten a church’s identity—and which do not
• Identify the church’s core values and nonnegotiable beliefs
• Anticipate the ten most common reactions to change
• Develop a workable plan for introducing change in your church

Bob Whitesel makes it seem so simple. Armed with these helpful principles, church leaders will have the tools they need to successfully implement change in the most difficult situations. I highly recommend this book!

—Stan Toler, bestselling author

Bob Whitesel is the key spokesperson on change theory in the church today. If you wish to introduce a biblical process of change in your church, Preparing for Change Reaction is the book for you!

—Gary L. McIntosh, professor of Christian ministry and leadership, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, La Mirada, CA

Church leaders will welcome this insightful resource. Finally, we have a solid teaching for change agents in the church.

—Kent R. Hunter, president, Church Doctor Ministries, Corunna, IN

When properly controlled, change will help your church make miraculous advances. But uncontrolled, change can become a destructive inferno. Preparing for Change Reaction is a Boy Scout’s guide to the proper understanding and constructive use of change.

—Charles Arn, president, Church Growth Inc., Glendora, CA

You should read anything that Bob Whitesel writes because he is totally committed to carrying out the Great Commission of Jesus Christ as well as meeting the challenge of contemporary worlds. Because culture is changing we should be Preparing for Change Reaction.

—Elmer L. Towns, Co-founder, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA

Bob Whitesel brings fresh thinking, strong clarity, and engaging concepts to the subject of change in the church . . . A most helpful book in helping churches thrive and survive.

—Ronald E. Keener, Editor, Church Executive Magazine, Phoenix, AZ

By page twenty-five of this book, I was suddenly seeing why change had not worked in our church community, and by page 45 I was setting up meetings with members to search for tactical leaders. It is revolutionizing the way we are approaching God’s call upon our community.

—Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran, Director, L.A. Film Studies Center

Bob Whitesel is professor of Christian ministry and missional leadership at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University and President of C3 International (Creative Church Counseling). He is a sought-after writer, speaker, consultant, and lecturer on the emerging organic church, church management, and church growth.

Waypoint: Navigating Your Spiritual Journey

• Author: Bob Whitesel
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 160

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Oksana is on a spiritual journey she never saw coming. There are many paths she can take, but that doesn’t help her know where she is going. Even though it’s her personal path, she needs some direction. She needs to find a waypoint.

Author Bob Whitesel follows Oksana’s journey, engagingly mapping out her life’s quest as an allegorical GPS for each of us on a spiritual journey. From whatever uniquely personal direction you might be coming, there are waypoints that every spiritual traveler must realize in order to progress toward a meaningful life. And as Whitesel openly and sensitively reveals, whatever personal way each of us follows, everyone must find these same points.

Bob Whitesel is professor of Christian Ministry and missional leadership at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University and President of C3 International (Creative Church Counseling). He is a sought-after writer, speaker, consultant, and lecturer on the emerging organic church, church management, and church growth.

Spiritual Waypoints: Helping Others Navigate the Journey

• Author: Bob Whitesel
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 272

Sample Pages: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Bob Whitesel, one of the church’s foremost experts on leadership, growth, and change, offers help for pastors and congregation leaders who struggle to develop effective strategies for reaching today’s generation with the good news of Jesus Christ. This book defines and describes the journey most people in today’s culture follow as they move from a lack of awareness of the gospel through conversion to spiritual maturity. Whitesel identifies distinct stages or “waypoints” in this journey and helps church leaders understand how to guide seekers in taking the next step from where they are.

Filled with interviews and personal stories from Shane Claiborne, Dan Kimball, Lauren Winner, Scot McKnight, and more, this engaging book will help congregations build on their strengths to develop a comprehensive and holistic strategy for guiding people through the stages of their journey toward spiritual maturity.

This book tackles the big challenge that all churches face: helping people find their way on the spiritual journey.

—Warren Bird, research director, Leadership Network, Dallas, TX

Whitesel helps us see what the Spirit is doing in a person’s heart. Learn, and be encouraged.

—Nelson Searcy, lead pastor, The Journey Church, Boca Raton, FL

Spiritual decision-making leads to a life-long journey of progressive discovery. Whitesel provides practical guidelines to help people move from stage to stage.

—Eddie Gibbs, professor, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA

At the end of this read, you’ll have new understanding of where you are (your waypoint) and a new outlook of where others are on their journey.

—Aubrey Malphurs, senior professor of educational ministries and leadership and pastoral ministry, Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, TX

May God use Spiritual Waypoints to grow many believers in their faith. Likewise, may God use this new refreshing book to grow many believers in Christ.

—Elmer L. Towns, co-founder, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA

Bob Whitesel is professor of Christian ministry and missional leadership at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University and President of C3 International (Creative Church Counseling). He is a sought-after writer, speaker, consultant, and lecturer on the emerging organic church, church management, and church growth.

Delivering the Sermon: Voice, Body, and Animation in Proclamation

• Author: Teresa L. Fry Brown
• Publisher: Fortress Press
• Publication Date: 2008
• Pages: 100

In this book, Teresa L. Fry Brown introduces preachers to the effective use of voice and body in the animation of the word in the preaching moment. Suggestions and exercises for enhancing voice, diction, and nonverbal engagement of the listener are included in each chapter. These exercises may be used with groups or for individual enhancement of sermon delivery.

Delivering the Sermon combines the latest research in communications, speech pathology, and homiletics with the author's own experience as a speech language pathologist to enable preachers to improve their effectiveness in preaching.

Teresa L. Fry Brown is Associate Professor of Homiletics, Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. She is an ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Her Ph.D. is in Religion and Social Transformation.

Shaping the Claim: Moving from Text to Sermon

• Author: Marvin A. McMickle
• Publisher: Fortress Press
• Publication Date: 2008
• Pages: 96

Shaping the Claim helps the preacher discover the core of the message to be preached—the sermonic "claim."

In order to be effective, says McMickle, a sermon needs to address the hearers at three distinct levels; the head or the intellect, the heart or passion and conviction, and the hand or an expected and desired response. In order to discover the biblical "claim" that a sermon should make upon a particular congregation at a particular time, McMickle presents a helpful three-step process:

1. What?
2. So What?
3. Now What?

Marvin A. McMikle is the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio, and professor of homiletics at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. He is the author of From Pulpit to Politics: Reflections on the Separation of Church and State.

Preaching Like a Woman

• Author: Susan Durber
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 192

Here is a book that will encourage and empower women preachers to preach as women, as feminist theologians and as those who will make a difference to the church. It provides a step-by-step guide to approaching the Bible from a feminist standpoint with suggestions for how to develop your own voice as a preacher.

Susan Durber gives advice on how to preach the lectionary, on how to find new angles on well-known texts and on how to challenge and recast well-established interpretations. To show how the theory works in practice she includes sample sermons from her own preaching. The book will inspire reluctant and tired preachers to seize an important challenge with new energy.

This is a book which every woman preacher will value highly and from which every male preacher will learn a great deal. It succeeds in being at once fresh and sane, scholarly and lucid. Contrary to much contemporary opinion, Susan Durber still believes passionately in the preaching ministry and shows how women can use the text in a way that is both biblical and authentic. She also shows how it is possible to preach without the anti-Judaism that continues to disfigure far too many sermons. I highly recommend this book both for its general themes and the actual examples of sermons preached, which can also be useful for personal meditation.

—Richard Harries, retired bishop of Oxford

Susan Durber is a minister of St. Columba’s United Reformed Church, Oxford and joint Reformed chaplain to the University of Oxford. She was the coeditor, with Heather Walton, of Silence in Heaven: A Book of Women’s Preaching and lectures and writes regularly at the College of Preachers. Her PhD, from the University of Manchester, was on the parables of Jesus. She was major contributor to the URC’s most recent book of worship and is a member of the Faith and Order Standing Commission of the World Council of Churches. She enjoys singing, exploring historic houses and art galleries, and meeting new friends for dinner. She has a beautiful daughter, Grace.

With Unveiled Faces

• Author: Keith Drury
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2005
• Pages: 191

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Spiritual disciplines are those things we do—or don't do—that bring us closer to God. They are habitual actions and responses that form us spiritually.

Master teacher Keith Drury leads the way to a vibrant relationship with God through classic spiritual disciplines. Augmenting long-established Christian practices with modern research, Drury offers a smorgasbord of approaches for developing intimacy with God.

Experience new ways of relating to God and find the means best suited to your spiritual formation:

• Fasting
• Silence
• Solitude
• Simplicity
• Rest
• Secrecy
• Journaling
• Hospitality
• Confession
• Prayer
• Scripture
• Penance

This helpful book includes practical suggestions for getting started with each discipline and a study guide for leading you small group in developing greater intimacy with God.

Common Ground

• Author: Keith Drury
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2008
• Pages: 187

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What do Christians believe? For centuries, the answer to that question has been found in the creeds—those carefully crafted, sparingly articulate statements that form the minimum definition of the Christian faith.

In a day when the church faces the rising tide of world religions and questions of relevance and ultimate meaning, many Christ followers have retreated into personal spirituality, unsure of what Christians believe or why.

In this elegantly simple book, Drury draws us back to the ancient statement that has been the bedrock of Christian identity for nearly 2,000 years—the Apostles' Creed.

Each chapter explores the meaning behind a creedal statement, showing its biblical foundations, historical framework, and relevance for life in postmodern times.

This concise work will leave you more certain of the essential truths of the Christian faith—and more in love with the awesome God who stands behind it.

Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People

• Author: Keith Drury
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2004
• Pages: 192

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Find new solutions to old problems, and master the basics of the Christian life! In Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People master teacher Keith Drury offers practical help for handling the basics of everyday Christianity. Each down-to-earth chapter tackles a real-life issue that Christians face, such as:

• Making things right with others
• Forgiving those who have hurt you
• Conquering impure thoughts
• Winning the battle against pride
• Learning to be totally honest and transparent
• Living as a peacemaker in a broken world

Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People will enable you to tackle the fundamental issues that add up to real life change. You'll be able to take on the tough issues in your spiritual life, making lasting changes in your lifestyle, and find new solutions to old problems.

The Wonder of Worship

• Author: Keith Drury
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2002
• Pages: 312

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This easy reader of church history traces the development of prayer, music, preaching, sacraments, and other rituals. It offers clear insight on the reasons behind current worship practices. A helpful book for pastors, worship leaders, or anyone who wonders, "Why do we do that in church?"

Keith Drury has provided a guide to the basics of Christian worship with careful attention to both the historical developments and contemporary movements. Written with focus on evangelical sensibilities, it admirably fills a need in that rapidly growing element of American Christianity.

—James F. White, Bard Thompson Professor of Liturgical Studies, Drew University

What a wonderful treasure of past insights for present worship! Here, in an easy and useable form, Keith Drury connects the path of the past with the future. This book will help all of us who want to bring more depth and substance to our worship.

—Robert Webber, editor of The Complete Library of Christian Worship (8 vols.)

The Call of a Lifetime

• Author: Keith Drury
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2003
• Pages: 176

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Learn what it means to be called! Do you know someone who wonders if they are being called into ministry? Help to identify God's calling in others, and provide guidance to the next generation of leaders. This practical book will help anyone to understand ordained ministry, how it will impact their personal and family lives, and to decide if God is calling them into his service.

Longing for Spring: A New Vision for Wesleyan Community

• Authors: Elaine A. Heath and Scott T. Kisker
• Series: New Monastic Library: Resources for Radical Discipleship
• Publisher: Wipf & Stock
• Publication Date: 2010
• Pages: 118

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Delving into the widespread, contemporary longing for a more serious and communal experience of Christianity, this book provides important theoretical underpinnings and casts a vision for a new monasticism within the Wesleyan tradition. Elaine Heath and Scott Kisker call for the planting of neo-monastic churches which embody the Wesleyan vision of holiness in postmodern contexts. This book also points toward some vital shifts that are necessary in theological education in order to equip pastors to lead such communities. Longing for Spring helps Wesleyans of all stripes understand the theory and praxis necessary for planting neo-monastic communities as a new model of the church that is particularly important in the postmodern context. The authors write in an engaging, conversational style that is conversant with postmodern culture, yet thoroughly informed by critical research. Heath and Kisker boldly challenge the imagination of the church—both within and beyond Wesleyan traditions—to consider the possibility of revitalizing the church through the new monasticism.

Welcome to the world of New Methodism, exciting evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit in the church today. New Methodism comes to us with contributions from the New Monasticism, John Wesley, Jonathan Wilson-Hargrove, and an emerging generation who are leading us to a fresh appreciation of what God intends the church to be. This is a wonderful book that quickly gives the theological rationale for a reformed church and then gives practical advice on how to grow to be a new church. This is exciting!

—Will Willimon, bishop, North Alabama Conference, United Methodist Church

Longing for Spring connects United Methodism with a historical and theological approach that is very accessible, not to mention inspirational. I read it on an airplane and people around me wondered what I was reading because the authors’ writing is so delightful at times that I was laughing out loud! I can’t wait to make my first appointment of a clergy to a monastic community.

—Sally Dyck, resident bishop, Northern Illinois Conference, United Methodist Church

Elaine and Scott are the best of guides for hungry Methodists. Their description of Wesleyan renewal is inviting. Their prescription for transformation is possible. I will be using this book in my class, our neighborhood and our congregation. What a blessing!

—Amy Laura Hall, associate professor of Christian ethics, Duke University

Elaine A. Heath is McCreless Associate Professor of Evangelism in the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. She is the author of The Mystic Way of Evangelism and coauthor of More Light on the Path: Daily Scripture Readings in Hebrew and Greek.

Scott Kisker is a professor of history of Christianity at Wesley Theological Seminary, and is the author of Foundation for Revival.

More than Forgiveness: A Contemporary Call to Holiness Based on the Life of Jesus Christ

• Author: Steve DeNeff
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2002
• Pages: 224

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Holiness is not conformity to a standard but abandonment to the love of God. In More Than Forgiveness: A Contemporary Call to Holiness Based on the Life of Jesus Christ, Steve DeNeff offers a biblical and sensible understanding of holiness. Christian holiness, he shows, should not be sectioned off from the rest of faith or theology, but is intricately connect to the rest of Christian belief and practice. The path toward holiness has defining moments, but it does not come in a moment’s time. In More Than Forgiveness, discover the beauty of a life completely surrendered to God!

Steve DeNeff is senior pastor of College Wesleyan Church in Marion, Indiana.

The Way Forward

• Editors: Matthew Leroy, Jeremy Summers
• Publisher: Wesleyan Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2007
• Pages: 191

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A burning heart. A humble monk. A former slave turned founding bishop. A politician and a poet. Abolitionists and activists. Preachers, professors, reformers, and revolutionaries. Through these set-apart voices we witness the journey of the holiness message through the ages, and its timeless promise of God's far-reaching grace and transforming love.

And these voices have something to say to us, today. They speak in tones of hope and expectation, resounding with the promise of perfected love. They offer the assurance of restoration and reconciliation with the Father, by way of the Son and the Holy Spirit. They challenge us to embrace humility, submitting ourselves to the unrivaled reign of God. Now, more than ever, the world needs to experience, and we need to remember, this grace that enables holiness.

The Way Forward presents these voices from our past—John Wesley, Thomas a Kempis, Phoebe Palmer and more—with introductions from scholars and pastors of today.

The Way Forward assembles a number of engaging scholars and pastors to bring before the broader Wesleyan family some of the classics precious to the holiness tradition: from Thomas a Kempis to John Wesley, William Law to John Fletcher, and Richard Allen to Phoebe Palmer, those who loved and articulated the holy way are amply represented. Each selection contains both the original text as well as a contemporary commentary. Such an approach will undoubtedly help to demonstrate the ongoing importance of the tradition and is therefore greatly needed today.

—Kenneth J. Collins, Professor of Historical Theology and Wesley Studied, Asbury Theological Seminary

Jeremy Summers is a student at Asbury Theological Seminary and an ordained minister of The Wesleyan Church.

Matt Leroy is a student at Asbury Theological Seminary and an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church.

Christian Theology

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: Thomas Tegg & Son
• Publication Date: 1835
• Pages: 515

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Discourses on Various Subjects Relative to the Being and Attributes of God, vol. 1

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: M'Elrath & Bangs
• Publication Date: 1830
• Pages: 308

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Discourses on Various Subjects Relative to the Being and Attributes of God, vol. 2

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: M'Elrath & Bangs
• Publication Date: 1831
• Pages: 333

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Discourses on Various Subjects Relative to the Being and Attributes of God, vol. 3

• Author: Adam Clarke
• Publisher: M'Elrath & Bangs
• Publication Date: 1831
• Pages: 313

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A Compendium of Christian Theology, Vol. 1

• Author: William Burt Pope
• Publisher: Wesleyan Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1879
• Pages: 456

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William Burt Pope’s 3-volume Compendium of Christian Theology is an authoritative textbook on dogmatic theology in the Wesleyan tradition. Published in 1877–1879, this expanded edition quickly became most important and influential Methodist systematic theology of its time, and the clearest representation of Methodist theology during the second half of the nineteenth century.

In these volumes, Pope confronts advances in science, philosophy, literature, and learning. He addresses new developments in the Church, such as theological liberalism, rationalism, and events such as the First Vatican Council. Volume one outlines the divine rule of faith—discussing reason, revelation, miracles, prophecy, and the inspiration and canonicity of Scripture. Volume two discusses sin, including original sin and the manifestation of sin. He also outlines Christ’s redemptive work, with a lengthy discussion of the atonement. The third volume discusses salvation and righteousness, and concludes with a lengthy chapter on eschatology.

As an authoritative and comprehensive systematic theology, these volumes are essential reading for Methodists and Wesleyans, and for anyone interested in nineteenth century systematic theology.

One of the greatest systematic theologies written from a Wesleyan or Arminian perspective.

—Wayne Grudem

Destined . . . to hold a distinguished place in the theological literature of England. . . . Marked by the qualities which distinguish Mr. Pope’s other writings. . . . There is the same comprehensiveness of view, the same profound insight into the deep meaning of Holy Scripture, the same intimate acquaintance with all the phase of ancient and modern thought on the great subjects of which he treats, the same devout and reverential regard to Him who is the Centre of all truth, the same fidelity to evangelical doctrine, and the same solicitude for the practical holiness which the truth is designed to nourish and sustain.

—Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine, 1876

Whatever theme comes under Dr. Pope’s treatment, he deals with thoroughly and with masterful grasp. As the modern exponent of Arminian theology, he stands in the front without a comparable rival, and his great work, characterized by so much noble thought and careful inquiry, will doubtless take its place as a standard book of reference and appeal among the systematic expositions of Christian theology, leaving little else for Wesleyan Methodists to require as a manifesto of their creed.

—Literary Intelligence and Review, 1878

A Compendium of Christian Theology, Vol. 2

• Author: William Burt Pope
• Publisher: Wesleyan Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1877
• Pages: 451

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A Compendium of Christian Theology, Vol. 3

• Author: William Burt Pope
• Publisher: Wesleyan Conference Office
• Publication Date: 1879
• Pages: 493

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The Living God—Systematic Theology: Volume One

• Author: Thomas C. Oden
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication Date: 1987
• Pages: 432

Oden divides this volume into four parts. Part One discusses the name, nature and character of God. Part Two looks at the reality of God—concentrating on the debate of God’s existence and Triune personhood. Part Three looks at the work of God as creator and sustainer. Sin and evil are deliberated, as are natural causality and general and special providence. Part Four considers whether God can actually be studied and how His self-revelation plays an epistemological part in knowing Him.

The Word of Life—Systematic Theology: Volume Two

• Author: Thomas C. Oden
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication Date: 1989
• Pages: 599

The focal point in Oden’s second volume is Jesus Christ. He is the Word made flesh, and this idea engages Oden in a methodical examination of Christ’s deity, the incarnation, and Christ’s humanity. In pursuit of the historical Jesus, we are invited to an intimate look at Jesus’ public ministry, as well as His death and resurrection.

Life in the Spirit—Systematic Theology: Volume Three

• Author: Thomas C. Oden
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication Date: 1992
• Pages: 552

In these eleven chapters, Oden considers the person and work of the Holy Spirit. He displays the Spirit’s hand in the believer’s salvation, justification and sanctification, and reveals His work in the Church and in human destiny.

Methodist Theology

• Author: Kenneth Wilson
• Series: Doing Theology
• Publisher: T&T Clark
• Publication Date: 2011
• Pages: 208

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This book is written to capture the imagination and engage the reader in conversation by expressing the essence of the Methodist tradition. Methodism is presented not as a doctrinaire society, yet one that is clear about what it believes. Methodists confidently develop their theology through conversation with the world of secular knowledge, with other Christian traditions and other religious faiths, drawing on contemporary biblical scholarship, and with careful attention to the Christian tradition. In terms of mission, Methodism is serious about worship—public and personal—since it wants to celebrate the reality of God’s presence with his people—all his people. This is because Methodist theology is grounded in the grace of God that it proclaims to be free for all and is essentially Christological and Trinitarian. Thus, Methodism is keen to draw others into its fellowship and does not have missionary societies but rather sees itself as a society organized for mission.

This is a book in which the author defies the gravity of age, and combines a rare mix of well earned wisdom with inspiring youthful enthusiasm. Dr. Wilson moves effortlessly through the roots, branches, and flowering of Methodist Theology, with a passionate belief in reasonable Christianity, and in the part that Methodism can play in that today. An up-to-date book with an old fashioned commitment to the disciplines of study and thoughtfulness.

—Mark Wakelin, secretary for internal relationships, The Connexional Team, UK

Methodist Theology by Kenneth Wilson is a book that will enlighten, inform, and inspire all who pick it up. It comes from one of the most gifted, creative, and ecumenically-minded Methodist scholars of his generation . . . This work sets Methodism and its distinctive theological and ecclesiological traditions in their wider historical, intellectual, and social context and makes the story of how Methodism came into being come alive in a highly accessible manner. Wilson paints rich parallels across the centuries and explains the more complex theological emphases dear to the heart of the Methodist movement with a clarity rarely found in foundational textbooks . . . A tour de force of historical and systematic theology alike, this work should be required reading for anyone interested in contemporary doctrinal and ecclesiological currents of thought.

—Gerard Mannion, professor of theology and religious studies, University of San Diego

. . . members of other churches will be fascinated by an account of Methodist theology that looks at both doctrines and the teaching of major Methodist figures.

—Church of England Newspaper

Kenneth Wilson has done an excellent job articulating the theological thinking of those ‘reflective practitioners’ who call themselves Methodist.

—Church Times

Kenneth Wilson was educated at Cambridge and Bristol Universities and is a Methodist Minister. After chaplaincies to London University and Kingswood School, he held the Rowbotham Chair in Philosophical Theology and Ethics at Wesley College in Bristol and taught at Bristol University from 1973 to 1980. From 1980 to 1996 he served as principal of Westminster College, Oxford and from 1996 to 2001 was the director of research at the Queens Foundation in Birmingham. He currently serves as visiting research fellow at Canterbury Christ Church University and Chichester University.

When Christ Comes Again

• Author: George P. Eckman
• Publisher: Abingdon Press
• Publication Date: 1917
• Pages: 287

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This volume broadly examines the doctrine of the Second Coming of Christ without confining itself to the debate between premillennialists and postmillennialists. Eckman first explores the manner and purpose of the Lord’s return, then devotes a chapter to the time of the return. Eckman answers the questions, What is Christ doing now and What should we be doing until his return? He then focuses on the doctrine of the millennium, explaining where it is found in the Bible and how it has been misinterpreted by many Bible commentators. Written in popular, plain language, When Christ Comes Again is a vital volume for anyone studying second coming theology.

The last part of the volume is devoted to a fair, sober, and Scriptural criticism of what the author calls “the pre-millennial program,” showing very pointedly the difficulties involved in the ideas of “the Rapture,” “the Revelation,” “the Great Tribulation,” the several returns of our Lord, the several judgments, and the two-fold resurrection. Mr. Eckman does this very well. He proves beyond doubt for any unprejudiced reader that these ideas are not only unscriptural but also in direct conflict with the Bible.

—Charles Hodge

Dr. Eckman is blessed with an abundance of good horse sense: his style is concise, clear, direct and simple. Evidently he has made a most thorough study of the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and he gives sound and convincing interpretation of the passages relating to the Second Coming.

—Union Seminary Review

George P. Eckman (1860–1920) was a Methodist Episcopal minister and editor of the Christian Advocate. He was educated at Wyoming Seminary College, Wesleyan University, Drew Theological Seminary, and New York University. Eckman pastored St. Paul’s Methodist Episcopal Church, NY, and Elm Park Church in Scranton, PA. His numerous works include The Literary Primacy of the Bible, The Return of the Redeemer, and Studies in the Gospel of John.

Ethics and Atonement

• Author: W. F. Lofthouse
• Publisher: Methuen & Co.
• Publication Date: 1906
• Pages: 302

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In Ethics and Atonement, W. F. Lofthouse maintains that the doctrine of the atonement is not an artificial theorem or an inexplicable or unethical dogma, but that it has its roots in the foundations of all human life. He believes it is really the highest expression of the law of all moral and social progress, and that ethics itself is of little use, as a practical science, unless completed by the atonement. Ethics and Atonement is divided into the following sections:

• Ethics in the Bible
• Ethics outside the Bible
• Duties and Persons
• Reconciliation
• Mediation
• Anger and Forgiveness
• Symbolism and Reality
• The God-Man
• Personality
• Atonement and the Race

The book is a welcome discussion of a matter of the first importance, enriched by a wealth of allusions, and vigorously loyal to the fundamental truths of Christianity.

—London Quarterly Review

The book is one of enduring value, marking as it does the beginning of that new treatment of the atonement from the side which is the only one acceptable to modern ways of thought—the ethical. It remains only to be added that there is such a delightful spring and freshness in the writing that there is not a dull page in the book.

—Review of Philosophy and Theology

W. F. Lofthouse (1871–1965) trained for the Wesleyan ministry at Richmond College and was ordained in 1896. He was a founding member of the Wesleyan Methodist Union for Social Service in 1905. Strongly ecumenical, he was active in the Faith and Order Movement. His other works include The Social Teaching of the Bible, The Family and the State, and The Father and the Son.

The Atonement in Christ

• Author: John Miley
• Publisher: Eaton & Mains
• Publication Date: 1879
• Pages: 351

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The atonement may be treated in a broader or in a more restricted sense. In the former sense, it may include the whole of soteriology, while in the latter it may be treated specially as the ground of justification, or the forgiveness of sin. In each case the comprehension is logically determined by cardinal doctrines of the system in connection with which the subject is treated. After determining the facts of the atonement and defining connected terms, John Miley proceeds with an explanation of the necessity for atonement. He then critiques the prevailing theories built from the facts, shedding light on their history and answering objections.

Although this volume is our first introduction to Dr. Miley, it makes us quite sure, that, if his life is spared, it is only the earnest of important contributions to theology yet to come from his strong and prolific pen. It shows mastery of the literature of the subject, which, instead of having been passed over with superficial glances, has been carefully digested by him in keen and profound thinking.

—The Presbyterian Review

John Miley (1813–1895) served as chair of systematic theology at Drew University in Madison, NJ. He was the author of Systematic Theology, a two-volume work which served as a key text for Methodist seminarians for decades.

Theological Institutes

• Author: Richard Watson
• Editor: Thomas O. Summers
• Publisher: Stevenson & F.A. Owens
• Publication Date: 1857
• Pages: 786

First published in 1823 in four volumes as the first attempt to systematize John Wesley’s theology, Watson’s Theological Institutes was the first Methodist/Wesleyan textbook for systematic theological studies and remained a primary text for over 50 years after his death. Influencing and guiding the later systematic theological work for Methodist theology, Watson’s Institutes is a must-read theological guide for the development of Methodist doctrine. In this later one-volume edition, Thomas Summers corrects frequent, but minor, errors in Scripture quotation, adds breath and accent marks to Greek words, and provides Scripture citations where originally omitted. Indexes for Scripture citations, Greek terms, and analytical terms (proper nouns and theological terms) have also been included.

Richard Watson (1781–1833) was a British Methodist theologian and missionary advocate. Considered one of nineteenth-century Methodism’s most important figures, Watson was a prolific writer and preacher. He served as the secretary to the Wesleyan Missionary Society from 1821 to 1825. His Theological Institutes were considered institutional standards for years, and was the first attempt to systematize John Wesley’s theology and Methodist doctrine.