Holy Mary-Am Spiritual Influence on Mankind
Holy Mary-Am Spiritual Influence on Mankind is an exploration of the Oneness of Jehovah-Allah and the mystical creation of Jesus and His Mother, the Holy Mary-am in Heaven, before their nativity on earth. Authors Orungbohun Lateef Emmanuel and Saint Samuel Bilehou Joseph Oshoffa examine the Crucifixion of Jesus as well as the challenges surrounding Jesus as the Son of Jehovah-Allah and how these two concepts have become the foundation of flimsy arguments that separate and cause rifts and animosity between Two Major Faiths. In this eye-opening work, the similarities and differences between Islam and Christianity are scrutinized and evaluated for the purpose of showing a greater Oneness for all Mankind. About the authorsOrungbohun Lateef Emmanuel was born in April of 1966 to a Muslim family from the Odogbolu town in Ogun State, Nigeria. He gave his life to Christ in the Celestial Church of Christ on February 4, 2005.Saint Samuel Bilehou Joseph Oshoffa was born in 1909 in Porto Novo, Republic of Benin. At seven, he was sent for God's service to a Methodist Catechist. Because his father was unhappy with how he was being treated and brough him back home, then later sent him back at the age of thirteen. He was sent back home again with the other pupils after they refused to participate in making blocks for a new building. At that point his father said there was no alternative but that he should be trained to be a carpenter like his father and he was happy as a carpenter. Upon his father's death on June 15, 1939, he continued to bear the burden until December 1946, when he decided to enter into the ebony trade until a fateful day, May 23, 1947, the day of the eclipse of the sun, when he was praying in the forest he heard the voice of LULI; the same voice told him, "This means the Grace of Jesus Christ." By the Divine Order, he later went on to found the Celestial Church of Christ on September 29, 1947.
Quantum Physics and God
Quantum physics and the theory of relativity have shaken our conception of reality. They have made us realize that the universe is not as we perceive it. Religion and philosophy have so far failed to adapt our view of the world on the basis of these findings. Thus, together with the reader, the author sets out to clarify the fundamental questions of life. He skillfully juxtaposes convincing answers from different fields of knowledge. Scientific chapters about the world of quantum objects, space and time, or the origin and evolution of the universe stand in stark contrast to chapters about scientifically unexplainable events such as miracles, spiritualistic phenomena, findings about life after death, and reincarnation. In addition, the author discusses the atheistic worldview. The scientific sections are easily understandable, especially since they are, to a large extent, free of technical terms and formulas. In the religious chapters, the author draws parallels between ideas from all religions (especially Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism) and scientific findings. Descriptions of the God-experiences of spiritual masters from all times, cultures, and religions as well as personal anecdotes and stories imagined by the author provide manifold paradigm shifts in the detailed consideration of one and the same thing: the ultimate reason of our existence and the meaning of life.
Image and Illumination
What does it mean to be created in the image of God? This is the core question in Christian anthropology and it is surprisingly important in understanding everything else. Anthropology is the study of human beings, the who question of philosophy. As Christians, our identity is found in Jesus Christ, but exactly what does this imply?Because we are created in the image of God, he is familiar and we immediately recognize him (metaphysics). Because we worship the God who created the universe, we expect the universe to be orderly and worthy of scientific study (epistemology). Because God loves us, we can love those around us who make up God's family (ethics). Our anthropology is accordingly an interpretive key that colors how we see everything else.In exploring this question, Image and Illumination offers over forty devotions containing a reflection, prayer, and questions for discussion. These devotions are organized into these chapters: Introduction, Image, Fall from Grace, Illumination, and Restoration.Cover art is by James Tissot (1836-1902): Moses Adores God in the Burning Bush. French Jewish Museum, New York.Hear the words; walk the steps; experience the joy! Used withh permission.
Bible Journaling for Grown Folks
BIBLE JOURNALING FOR GROWN FOLKS: Having Life More Abundantly! is designed as a therapeutic reflective tool to help you grow in the faith by systematically studying God's Word. Christianity Today confirms this premise and this work in the article excerpt below: "Spending time in Bible reflection is hands down the highest impact personal spiritual practice. There's great significance in the word reflection. It implies a contemplative process, one of thoughtful and careful deliberation. This is not about skimming through a Bible passage or devotional. It is thoughtful, personal meditation that catalyzes spiritual growth."This work is the third edition of Reverend Dr. Deborah Scarborough's family Bible journal series. My first work, entitled Bible Journaling for Kids, Putting on the Full Armor of God, is based on Ephesians 4:11-18. My second work, entitled Bible Journaling for Teens, Doing All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me, is based on xii Philippians 4:13. And now it's your turn! It's your time! Time for you to get on board with Bible journaling!
Bible Journaling for Grown Folks
BIBLE JOURNALING FOR GROWN FOLKS: Having Life More Abundantly! is designed as a therapeutic reflective tool to help you grow in the faith by systematically studying God's Word. Christianity Today confirms this premise and this work in the article excerpt below: "Spending time in Bible reflection is hands down the highest impact personal spiritual practice. There's great significance in the word reflection. It implies a contemplative process, one of thoughtful and careful deliberation. This is not about skimming through a Bible passage or devotional. It is thoughtful, personal meditation that catalyzes spiritual growth."This work is the third edition of Reverend Dr. Deborah Scarborough's family Bible journal series. My first work, entitled Bible Journaling for Kids, Putting on the Full Armor of God, is based on Ephesians 4:11-18. My second work, entitled Bible Journaling for Teens, Doing All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me, is based on xii Philippians 4:13. And now it's your turn! It's your time! Time for you to get on board with Bible journaling!
You Are Here: Keywords for Life Explorers
The magnum opus of our most important living Catholic author--a pioneer in the Christian contemplative life and spiritual writing. Unlike any book he's written before, Brother David Steindl-Rast offers spiritual direction from a unique perspective in history. At 96 years old, he has counted Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, Thomas Merton, H. H. the Dalai Lama, and Thomas Keating as friends and teachers. He has learned much, and offers it here.
Good Tidings of Great Joy
Spiritual messengers of God bring us good tidings in parables. Hark! "For those who have ears, let them listen; for those who have sight, let them see." (Spiritual messengers of God, Aka, November 23, 1973) The story of the birth of Jesus in Luke 2:6-14 begins: "Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest - And on earth peace, good will toward men!'" Now, once again, today, we are blessed to hear angels praising God and saying: "Glory be the name of the Lord. Glory be the name of His people!" They bring a message of great joy, which will be to all the people. "Hark unto these words - we have come for this time. We have come from those who should make their entry." (Spoken by spiritual messengers of God, Aka, December 29, 1972) "We are here but for one purpose, the preparation of the coming of the Messiah. Open the door that we may enter, and we shall walk with you." (June 9, 1979) "Let the Christmas spirit be not only the Christmas Spirit; let it reach unto all religions of all faiths. Let brotherhood bind unto you. For that which you celebrate is the love he left upon your Earth in birth and in death. Amen, oh Lord, amen." (December 8, 1978) What better news could you hear?
The Danger of Sunday Worship
This book is about restoring God's proper day of worship to Saturday. the Sabbath day, the day he commanded, blessed, sanctified, and made holy. This book explores the challenges Christians face in making the change to Sabbath day worship, and the consequences God places on them for not obeying his holy word. This book exposes the issues that are keeping them trapped in the false day of Sunday worship. This book offers believers clear cut scriptural evidence of God's holy day of worship, and exposes the Christian leaders responsible for misleading their congregations in false Sunday worship.
Freeing Me
Freeing Me is the redemptive story of a former pastor who discovers his complicity and involvement in a man-made, manipulatively religious culture of control and is led to confront his own inauthenticity; thus beginning a journey away from the church to rediscover his faith.Challenging and questioning the status quo can be difficult, especially within the church. Through much pain, disillusionment, heartbreak and rejection, through painful experiences of spiritual abuse and emotional manipulation, the redemptive purpose of God begins to be revealed.So many have been hurt or feel rejected by the church. This book is for the ones who've been broken. You are not alone. Together we'll find the divine love of God in the ashes and empty spaces.
One Step to Happiness
This book presents an understanding of both pride and humility so that the reader knows how to discard one and embrace the other. The presence of pride or humility can have major consequences in our lives. Pride, said one person, is like bad breath. You're the last person to know you have it. "Relationship problems abound in today's society," says Davies. "By heeding the message of this book, relationships can be improved or even mended forever." It is his hope that, with his book's help, his readers could affect major changes in their life and relationships.
Jump! Exploring Our Spiritual Existence
Jump! Exploring Our Spiritual Existence will speak truth to the hearts of those guided by the Holy Spirit, but it will also be a fascinating read for anyone in search of a deeper discussion of spiritual influences. This book builds upon the vital foundation of experiencing a personal relationship with God and examines barriers that can distract from this relationship. It explores the spiritual forces of this world by observing the personality traits of God versus Satan. Better recognizing these personalities will equip the reader to see their power in his or her own life. This book will deepen your relationship with the triune God and help develop your discernment of spiritual influences. If you are an out-of-the-box thinker, you will enjoy the expansive spiritual thoughts grounded in Scripture.
Depending on God
Depending on God [My Testimony with a Warning]Jehovah Rappha-My HealerBy: Yolanda Nivens-Speller [Neicie] Yolanda Nivens-Speller [Neicie] has gone through many trials and tribulations starting at age 26. Her experiences give a warning to anyone that has gone through chemo and radiation. She tells how God literally pulled her out of the fire and saved her life. We can all learn from Neicie's experiences and never give up. Everyone is going through something, and if we keep striving things will get better. About the AuthorBefore COVID, and before life hit her, Yolanda Nivens-Speller [Neicie] used to ski, go fishing, camping, and canoeing. She was a real outdoorswoman. The youngest of ten children, she's never had any formal education; however, God put her in a place to work with presidents, legal officials, and all the top brass at a major shoe corporation, which she enjoyed very much.
America in Tribulation
Where is America in biblical prophecy? This is the single most commonly asked question among Christians today - and this book finally answers the question. MacLeod starts by showing how the Bible clearly tells us that the Christian church will have to endure the first half of the coming 7-year tribulation, until a MID-tribulation Rapture and return of Jesus. During this 3.5 years will be the death of 1/4 of the world (2 billion people) from war/anarchy, famine, disease, wild animals, and martyrdom of Christians! However the Bible also tells us that there will be a place of refuge where God will protect some Christians from the hand of Satan and death during this time - and this refuge is the United States of America! MacLeod then expands on the implications of this for the individual Christian, America, and the world, and also delves into the evidence concerning the timing of the tribulation and Rapture, with the conclusion that it is coming very soon. It is an extremely compelling read, that will shake the foundations of what you thought you knew about biblical prophecy.
America in Tribulation
Where is America in biblical prophecy? This is the single most commonly asked question among Christians today - and this book finally answers the question. MacLeod starts by showing how the Bible clearly tells us that the Christian church will have to endure the first half of the coming 7-year tribulation, until a MID-tribulation Rapture and return of Jesus. During this 3.5 years will be the death of 1/4 of the world (2 billion people) from war/anarchy, famine, disease, wild animals, and martyrdom of Christians! However the Bible also tells us that there will be a place of refuge where God will protect some Christians from the hand of Satan and death during this time - and this refuge is the United States of America! MacLeod then expands on the implications of this for the individual Christian, America, and the world, and also delves into the evidence concerning the timing of the tribulation and Rapture, with the conclusion that it is coming very soon. It is an extremely compelling read, that will shake the foundations of what you thought you knew about biblical prophecy.
The Power of Faith
This is a book that is how any person seeking to find a solid foundation may do so though a relationship through His Son Jesus Christ. As easy as it sounds this shows in its simplicity how we can do so to become The Overcomer that God desires us to be through His Son.
The Women of the Bible Speak Coloring Book
Based on Shannon Bream's #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon The Women of the Bible Speak, a contemplative companion coloring book filled with meaningful and beautifully designed quotes from scripture to color in and accompanied by contextual references and passages from Bream's book which illuminate the stories from the women of the Bible. In The Women of the Bible Speak, Shannon Bream reminds you that women have long been essential in God's unfolding plan. Bream explains how their experiences can help you better understand what it means to be a woman of faith. From Sarah, to Miriam, to Mary of Nazareth, you can see your own struggles from the wisdom and lessons of the lives of the Biblical women. As you color, you'll find the motivation to better navigate your personal faith journeys. These unique women provide inspiration and guidance, and their stories show you that no matter how fearful, weak, or inadequate you may feel, God always has a plan for you.Bream drives home the message of her inspiring bestseller through the bible quotes in the coloring book that can be personalized, colored, and framed. Containing 36 verses from scripture to be colored in and context from Bream's bestseller, The Women of the Bible Speak Coloring Book will allow you to connect to your faith and contemplate your prayerful relationship with God. Filling in the biblical verses in this coloring book and thinking about the messages accompanying each one can help us discover more about the Bible, solidify our faith, and immerse ourselves in the undeniable power of love and God.Here are examples of verses that you will be contemplating and coloring in this book: "God listened to her"Genesis 30:22"We will not fear"Psalm 26:2"Woman, you are set free"Luke 13:12"She can laugh at the days to come"Proverbs 31:25
A Soul's Journey into Interspiritual Space
Are you a Christian who senses there is something deeper both within and beyond your inherited religion? Do you wonder if you can find a spiritual community for your expanding heart and deepest beliefs?Join Len Schreiner, a priest in the Ecumenical Catholic Church, as he shares his own deep, interior experience as a church insider who embarked on an inner journey that drew him into a wider spiritual universe, where Christ lives beyond the limits of any one religion. After four decades of sharing ministry with interfaith friends, Schreiner confidently shares insights and principles that rise up from Scripture and the spirit of Christ's life, which constantly invites us to step into the universal circle of Gospel love that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. called "the Beloved Community."The Soul's Journey illustrates how one can become a new kind of Christian who is no longer limited to following sectarian, institutional assumptions when they contradict the spirit of Christ, and his genius for relating to others. The open, inclusive invitational style of Jesus' life and ministry provides a template for how love, compassion and equality are meant to be practiced between diverse kinds of believers from the world's many religions and spiritualities.In this book you'll discover: - The dangers and dynamics of religion- The Word of God is a universal revelation- The fullness of Christ who lives in everyone and everything- The perennial wisdom available within the treasures of the world's religions.- The Divine is living with us in different colors, shapes, and images.A lively read marked by verve and a passion for what's possible, The Soul's Journey invites readers on a mystical journey into "interspirituality" that honors the divine presence in all religions, all peoples, and all places.You are not alone on this journey. Discover spiritual companions you never knew you had. Begin The Soul's Journey today.
Jesus' Parables for the Everyday Person
Jesus was a master storyteller, and through His many parables that are recounted in the Bible, we can discover the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. Though they may seem hard to decipher and learn from, Jesus' Parables for the Everyday Person will make examining these parables easy and enlightening so that you can apply their messages to your own faith. About the AuthorFrederick Williams, MD was born and raised in Chicago. He studied advanced mathematics at Illinois Institute of Technology and his MD from the University of Chicago. He later became an ophthalmologist. In 1999, Williams attended the Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. He and his wife reside in Southern California.
Pursue Your Passion
Pursue your Passion is a masterpiece for anyone who refuses to quit when they are hit the hardest. You've been on the journey of a lifetime, and no one else will travel it. A path of happiness and hurt, where the challenges are great and the rewards even greater. We all have to go through the challenge of discovering greatness. We find ourselves when we discover our purpose in life. Your passion will take you where nothing else will. Passion gives you energy, making you stand out from the crowd. It's one thing to have a dream, and it's another to do what's needed to achieve it. You must be willing to pay the price to fulfill your life purpose. I have spent 30 years of my life going through one attack after the next, but I was determined not to waste my personal pain. God let me survive every demonic attack over my life to inspire and empower you to pursue your purpose without giving up on yourself or your dreams. It's when things seem worse that you must not quit. My 30 years of hands-on experience as a deliverance and marriage counselor, transformational coach, mentor, teacher, and speaker, plus my own triumph over a life-changing crisis that took my life for six minutes, qualifies me to mentor you through this book. "Pursue your Passion" is my very own true story. This book has great benefits for leaders, men, and women who have a deep desire to pursue their dreams without quitting when God puts their vision to the test. You must have great faith in God, believe in yourself, and maintain a winning attitude in the process. Success is failure turned inside out, and you are going to need a big enemy to overcome to win. It's not enough to have a dream. You must also be willing to go through the fire to be purified and ready for the Master's use. Embrace your challenges, obstacles, and failures and give a hard push until you break free on the outside of success.
The Mystery of Getting to Know God
The About the Book information is not available as of this time.
Today I Live
This book is about a young girl who was broken. A girl that overcame many adversities in her life. A girl who became a woman. A girl that did the best she could with what she had, until she accepted the Lord as her savior and realized she didn't have to do it alone. This book tells the story of forgiveness, grace and how through His blood alone we can be made new. We pray the same for you.
The Mystery of Getting to Know God
The About the Book information is not available as of this time.
Pursue Your Passion
Pursue your Passion is a masterpiece for anyone who refuses to quit when they are hit the hardest. You've been on the journey of a lifetime, and no one else will travel it. A path of happiness and hurt, where the challenges are great and the rewards even greater. We all have to go through the challenge of discovering greatness. We find ourselves when we discover our purpose in life. Your passion will take you where nothing else will. Passion gives you energy, making you stand out from the crowd. It's one thing to have a dream, and it's another to do what's needed to achieve it. You must be willing to pay the price to fulfill your life purpose. I have spent 30 years of my life going through one attack after the next, but I was determined not to waste my personal pain. God let me survive every demonic attack over my life to inspire and empower you to pursue your purpose without giving up on yourself or your dreams. It's when things seem worse that you must not quit. My 30 years of hands-on experience as a deliverance and marriage counselor, transformational coach, mentor, teacher, and speaker, plus my own triumph over a life-changing crisis that took my life for six minutes, qualifies me to mentor you through this book. "Pursue your Passion" is my very own true story. This book has great benefits for leaders, men, and women who have a deep desire to pursue their dreams without quitting when God puts their vision to the test. You must have great faith in God, believe in yourself, and maintain a winning attitude in the process. Success is failure turned inside out, and you are going to need a big enemy to overcome to win. It's not enough to have a dream. You must also be willing to go through the fire to be purified and ready for the Master's use. Embrace your challenges, obstacles, and failures and give a hard push until you break free on the outside of success.
Today I Live
This book is about a young girl who was broken. A girl that overcame many adversities in her life. A girl who became a woman. A girl that did the best she could with what she had, until she accepted the Lord as her savior and realized she didn't have to do it alone. This book tells the story of forgiveness, grace and how through His blood alone we can be made new. We pray the same for you.
Journeying Through the Seasons of Life
"There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens" -Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) This Scripture is one that I hold very close to my heart... it speaks to me of the cycle of life. In it, God underlines the inevitability of change. Nothing will stay the same - the good or the bad. Everything has 'a season.' Life is full of seasons: some last longer than others, some are more difficult than others, and some we miss. Throughout this book, I will share with you some insights and reflections on the seasons that I have journeyed through, and that I have witnessed in those around me. Also, I will share spiritual enlightenment, Scripture readings, and information. Through my words, I hope that God will pour out His blessings upon you and upon anyone with whom you share them. I want to dedicate this book to my daughter Isabella without whose encouragement and foresight I would not have started writing. Also, to my husband Raymond for his constant loving support and wisdom-filled words.
The Making of Evangelical Spirituality
How did it come to be that evangelicals expect individualized, extrabiblical revelation from God? What has happened culturally, historically, and theologically to make this the ubiquitous assumption of evangelical spirituality? The Making of Evangelical Spirituality is a compound of history and theology applied to the subject of evangelical spirituality--specifically, the phenomenon of evangelicals thinking ""God spoke to me"" in a still, quiet voice. The story is complex, multifaceted, and urgently in need of telling. Few Christians know the history of the spiritual expectations heaped upon them. Few know the individuals who gave shape to evangelical spirituality, spiritual chieftains who were often guided by uniquely ephemeral, social, and cultural forces. There is no towering figure like Martin Luther that stands as the lone front man for the esoterica of evangelical spirituality. Instead, it's the osmosis of many fascinating people struggling through life in the storm of worldly and cultural momentum. This book is the story of those hermits, monks, reformers, heretics, politicians, outcasts, and preachers who gave shape. Failure to tell the story now risks it becoming just another part of historical compost, threatening to make evangelicals forever ignorant of what they are tossing into the garden of their soul.
Simon of Cyrene
A man from North Africa was forced to take Jesus' cross on His way to His crucifixion site in Jerusalem. Simon of Cyrene and his two sons, Alexander and Rufus, accompanied by John-Mark the Evangelist will travel the Roman Empire to spread the Gospel. From Libya to Judea, from Cyprus to Syria, from Egypt to Carthage, from Rome to Spain and from Catalonia to France, these new Judeo-Berber believers will discreetly mark the History of the world. On their way, they will meet famous people whose words and deeds the New Testament tells us about. Jesus first and his mother Mary; Simon Peter, the first of the Apostles; Barnabas cousin of Mark; Saul of Tarsus, who became Paul; Mona, Simon's wife; Photina the Samaritan woman; Petronilla, daughter of Simon-Peter, ... This historical novel tells the story of these ordinary men and women who have done extraordinary things with their commitment, their sacrifices, their fights, their questions, their doubts and their victory.
What Makes You Come Alive
"Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."--Howard Thurman Known as the godfather of the civil rights movement, Howard Thurman served as a spiritual adviser to Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders and activists in the 1960s. Thurman championed silence, contemplation, common unity, and nonviolence as powerful dimensions of social change. But Dr. Lerita Coleman Brown didn't learn about him during her years of spiritual-direction training. Only when a friend heard of her longing to encounter the work of Black contemplatives did she finally learn about Thurman, his mystical spirituality, and his liberating ethic. In What Makes You Come Alive, Brown beckons readers into their own apprenticeship with Thurman. Brown walks with us through Thurman's inimitable life and commitments as he summons us into centering down, encountering the natural world, paying attention to sacred synchronicity, unleashing inner authority, and recognizing the genius of the religion of Jesus. We learn from Thurman's resilience in the psychologically terrorizing climate of the Jim Crow South, his encounters with Quakers and with Mahatma Gandhi, and his sense of being guided by the Spirit. Each chapter illuminates an aspect of Thurman's work and includes reflection questions and spiritual practices. Decades after their deaths, sages like Howard Thurman offer spiritual kinship and guidance for our contemporary life. Thurman's spirituality enlivened an entire movement, and it can awaken us to intimacy with God and to authentic action today.
You & God's Word
You and God's Word Volume 1 includes forty-eight podcast episodes. Check them out.
You & God's Word
You and God's Word Volume 1 includes forty-eight podcast episodes. Check them out.
Journeying Through the Seasons of Life
"There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens" -Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) This Scripture is one that I hold very close to my heart... it speaks to me of the cycle of life. In it, God underlines the inevitability of change. Nothing will stay the same - the good or the bad. Everything has 'a season.' Life is full of seasons: some last longer than others, some are more difficult than others, and some we miss. Throughout this book, I will share with you some insights and reflections on the seasons that I have journeyed through, and that I have witnessed in those around me. Also, I will share spiritual enlightenment, Scripture readings, and information. Through my words, I hope that God will pour out His blessings upon you and upon anyone with whom you share them. I want to dedicate this book to my daughter Isabella without whose encouragement and foresight I would not have started writing. Also, to my husband Raymond for his constant loving support and wisdom-filled words.
Why the Bible Is so Hard to Understand ... and Tips to Understanding It
The Bible continues to be a source people turn to in their hunger for God. Yet, the Bible can be a challenging, confusing book to understand. In Why the Bible is So Hard to Understand...and tips to understanding it, author Steve Langford explores the challenges readers commonly encounter in reading the Bible. The first challenges Steve identifies are those found within how we naturally, unconsciously read the Bible. Then he addresses the Bible's nature as sixty-six different books written from an ancient, near-Eastern, pre-scientific perspective. He then offers a simple model of interpretation that guides the reader in unwrapping the spiritual truth from the human "wrapper" used to deliver it. The model is followed by guidelines for using it. Two bible studies are included, one of Jesus walking on the water that illustrates how to use the model and one from the life of Peter that outlines the process of spiritual growth that is prompted as we read the Bible. The book also offers guidelines for exercising spiritual discernment and for praying the Bible using the practice of lectio divina. It presents an outline of biblical history that helps the reader put each of the six-six books in its historical context. It ends with theological reflections on God's eternal redemptive purpose, the kingdom of God, and the church.
Our Black Seminarians and Black Clergy Without a Black Theology
In Black Seminarians, Dr. Ben outlines sources of Black theology before Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, showing how their ideas, practices, and concepts were already old in Africa before Europe was born.
Parousia
PAROUSIA (, parousia) is a Greek term meaning 'presence' or 'arrival.' Because it is used as a technical term referring to the return of Christ in glory, its more immediate, existential impact is often overlooked. Presence restores the epiphanic power of Parousia, opening us to the Eternal Now of a divine Fulness (Plrma) that is not yet completely revealed. Presence is a simple, immediately accessible entr矇e into what metaphysicians and theologians call the Mystery of 'God.' Presence is not identical with 'God' - what is? Yet Presence is that sophianic handmaid of 'God' - Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom) - who was 'created at the beginning of God's work' and who rejoices in God's created world and delights in the human race (Prv. 8:22- 31). Presence is the Sapientia of 'God', providing us with a taste of divine bliss otherwise inaccessible to the human heart (cf. 1 Cor. 2:9). I offer this book as an invitation for you to enter more deeply into the mystery of Presence where you may experience the Parousia of God.
The Love of Being Loving
The Love of Being Loving is about awakening and expanding our spiritual consciousness. It is also a personal journey. However, that which is elevating for a single consciousness is also elevating for human consciousness as a whole. There are no secrets. God withholds nothing. Yet, it is only by our sincere searching, the evolutionary stage we have reached, and the grace of God that we come into contact with spiritual pathways and teachers that are right for us at any particular time. Love and Devotion is a 2-book nonfiction series. A grand and magnificent truth radiates from within all of life and each of us. May you discover in your heart a sweet lightness, the luminescent glow of God's beauty, and a genuine appreciation for the wonderful gift of life, which glows unmarred through every human error. We are loved by the Divine, loved into existence. That, in itself, is enough to reassure each one of us of our inestimable worth.
Why the Bible Is so Hard to Understand ... and Tips to Understanding It
The Bible continues to be a source people turn to in their hunger for God. Yet, the Bible can be a challenging, confusing book to understand. In Why the Bible is So Hard to Understand...and tips to understanding it, author Steve Langford explores the challenges readers commonly encounter in reading the Bible. The first challenges Steve identifies are those found within how we naturally, unconsciously read the Bible. Then he addresses the Bible's nature as sixty-six different books written from an ancient, near-Eastern, pre-scientific perspective. He then offers a simple model of interpretation that guides the reader in unwrapping the spiritual truth from the human "wrapper" used to deliver it. The model is followed by guidelines for using it. Two bible studies are included, one of Jesus walking on the water that illustrates how to use the model and one from the life of Peter that outlines the process of spiritual growth that is prompted as we read the Bible. The book also offers guidelines for exercising spiritual discernment and for praying the Bible using the practice of lectio divina. It presents an outline of biblical history that helps the reader put each of the six-six books in its historical context. It ends with theological reflections on God's eternal redemptive purpose, the kingdom of God, and the church.
Rejoice in Hope
"Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope." (1 Pet. 3:15)Do you want to go heaven? This is the most important question we need to ask ourselves. Is getting to heaven our single-most important priority in life? Today, the signs indicate we are in a spiritual recession. The fervor of faith is cooling. Many have separated themselves from God, the true source of life, deprived of his life-giving mercy. The landscape has become increasingly bleak as people lose hope, giving into the spirit of the age. We are teetering on spiritual bankruptcy. To thrive in a spiritual recession, we must grow rich in what matters to God, striving for a life of holiness, obedient to the commandments of Jesus Christ, relying on divine grace, and seeking knowledge from above. This means focusing our efforts on that which matters most: Getting to heaven. We must regain the Art of Spiritual Life in which, even in the midst of spiritual poverty, we can find peace and joy, the abundant life that God wishes for us. Heaven is our true home, where there will be no pain, sorrow, or mourning. Are we building up the Kingdom of Heaven in our hearts, investing in our future? Or are storing up treasures on earth that moth and decay will destroy? Where do we want our final destiny to be?
Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary: Lessons in Hope and Healing is a compilation of personal stories from everyday moments in which the Divine enters and brings complete strangers together to help one another experience something greater than their individual selves. Read this book and be inspired, be challenged, be open to what may spark within you as these stories help you see and experience God's love and light in the ordinary-when you make the time to notice. Learning to see the divine throughout your day is a transformative experience, and you will never be the same. Awaken to the possibilities that open up to you every day and help you live a deeper more meaningful life.
Reflections of Me
"Reflections of Me- Living Life Experiences" is a collection of short stories written in poetry style. It is written as narrative poetry. Narrative poetry is one of the most common poetic forms. This poetic form is very much like a novel. Narrative poetry includes a series of events, including actions and dialogues. It uses a number of poetic methods such as rhyme, meter, and rhyming scheme. Usually, a narrative poem has a single speaker who is known as the narrator. The narrator recites the entire story from beginning to end. I am the narrator of these short stories/poems. The short stories in this narrative poetry are about life experiences such as; looking in the mirror, self-image, blind fate, family reunions, "isms" of the world, friendships, my way of thinking, testing the trials of life, communications, betrayal, beware of the snares, math problems of everyday life, "As Is" and more of life experiences that everyone can relate to at some point and time in their past, as they look in the mirror and reflect upon their life. These are some of the short stories/poems titles that you will find inside this book.
Galatians
NEXT TO ROMANS, NO OTHER WRITING has impacted the shape of reformed theology more than Paul's letter to the Galatians. So important was the letter that Luther affectionately referred to it as his Katie von Bora - the name of his wife, stating that in some ways he was married to the letter as well. Like Romans, Galatians is rooted in Paul's conviction that through the resurrection of Jesus, God's new creation has burst in upon the old with redeeming power and vindication for those made part of Christ's body by faith. Unlike Romans however, Galatians isn't primarily an exposition on the gospel or how we get saved. Rather, what is really at issue is the inclusion of all people in the single, multi-ethnic family of God. Who is in and who is out? Who belongs? And on what basis? These are the real issues being debated by the churches to whom Paul is writing. Paul's answer is that men and women are made part of the community of Christ by faith alone and not works of the Law. Followers of Jesus, no matter what their ethnic or moral background is, are incorporated into the family of God by the grace and action of God alone, and not by outward marks of Jewish identity. In Galatians: A Commentary, pastor and author Marc Simon offers a verse by verse exposition of Galatians which is at once accessible to scholars, pastors, and students alike.
Influential Women
I had two experiences of my courage and perseverance which caused me to value the potential and power that is within me. And how my influence can change lives and situations in my environment. After many diligent observation of my influence, I desired to write this book "The Power Of Women Influence." To help women discover their potential and redirect their perspective in life, and to find their destiny in God who made them with a special purpose. I do want to admonish women to emulate my courage and perseverance to achieve their goal in whatsoever they aspire to accomplish in life."Women are special to God. He created them with a divine purpose. A man was incomplete without a woman. God said it is not good for the man to be alone so God made him a helpmate his good thing. "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor of the Lord (pro. 18:22 "Although it is said that this is a man's world but without a woman or a girl it would be void".
The Love of Devotion
Devotion is not a reaching, but a return.In The Love of Devotion, Donna Goddard takes us beyond seeking and into surrender-into the stillness that heals, the love that asks nothing, and the beauty that quietly underlies all things.This is a book for those who are drawn to the subtle light of the sacred. It is for those who long not to possess God, but to dissolve into God.With lyrical insight and deep spiritual presence, the book invites us into communion with the soul-where healing, clarity, and joy arise not from effort, but from letting go.A companion for mystics, healers, and anyone longing to live from the inner sanctuary of truth.
Promotion of Devotion
The first edition of The Promotion of Devotion: Religion, Culture, and Communication pioneered the nexus of spirituality and public relations, exploring religious-spiritual tourism and church-state partnerships; devotional-promotional campaigning; sports and religion; and art and the promotion of devotion. It provided readers with an A-list look at Elvis Presley, Princess Diana, and other celebrity "saints," fans and their love for Smokey Bear and superstar racehorse Barbaro, and cultural phenoms Marilyn Monroe and Pharaoh Tutankhamun. In this revised second edition, the author revisits some of these topics with updates, expands others, and ventures into new territory. New chapters explore the death of Argentinian "soccer god" Diego Maradona, the resurrection of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris following extensive fire damage, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic upon worship and social media. Underscoring the important and influential nature of spirituality in society and exploring the many ways in which communication and faith intersect, The Promotion of Devotion is an ideal text for courses and programs in communication, religion, international studies, and culture.
A Blues Man’s Blues
A Blues Man's Blues: Poems on Love, Sex and Revolution is a collection of poetry by Rev. Dr. Majadi Baruti, Griot, Priest, Poet, and Goddess Devotee. His poetry illuminates his understanding of love, his devotion to the Divine Feminine, the sacredness of sexuality, and his revolutionary consciousness. This collection is on three subjects he covers in much of his poetry. The title of the work, A Blues Man's Blues: Poems on Love, Sex, and Revolution, gives reverence to Dr. Baruti's Great Grandfather, the late Blues Guitarist and singer, Johnny Shines.
If It Had Not Been For The Lord
Just when you think that Jesus is not there or just doesn't hear your prayers; he is & he does! Just like was, is, and always will be on my side and there for me. Just when you think he's not watching or doesn't care; he is & does! God Be To Glory! Just when you think that he has let you down or made you frown; he ultimately is not the one, so don't blame God or be mad at him. Behind every cloudy storm that passes in your life, there is a silver lining because the Lord is just that surreal! God is omnipresence, so Greater is he (Jesus) that's in me, than he (Satan) that's in the world! This is the Day that the Lord has made, so let us rejoice and be glad in it. Bless me indeed Lord; Amen and Thank You Father! Let my past failures help you to overcome your tribulations so that you too can receive the blessings that God has waiting for you. As a matter of fact, ask the Lord to help you to be obedient so that his blessings may fall down upon you. Go ahead and walk on through your fears because it's time that you stop letting the devil beat you down; but rather, it's time to beat him back and beat him down forever by taking back everything he has stolen from you, such as your joy, health, hurt, loss, emptiness, loneliness, faith, love etc. You don't have to cry anymore unless it's tears of joy because I can take you to my dearest and nearest friend (Jesus) indeed; you can trust him to be your bridge to safety in any kind of troubling waters. Love-Monica Goolsby
If It Had Not Been For The Lord
Just when you think that Jesus is not there or just doesn't hear your prayers; he is & he does! Just like was, is, and always will be on my side and there for me. Just when you think he's not watching or doesn't care; he is & does! God Be To Glory! Just when you think that he has let you down or made you frown; he ultimately is not the one, so don't blame God or be mad at him. Behind every cloudy storm that passes in your life, there is a silver lining because the Lord is just that surreal! God is omnipresence, so Greater is he (Jesus) that's in me, than he (Satan) that's in the world! This is the Day that the Lord has made, so let us rejoice and be glad in it. Bless me indeed Lord; Amen and Thank You Father! Let my past failures help you to overcome your tribulations so that you too can receive the blessings that God has waiting for you. As a matter of fact, ask the Lord to help you to be obedient so that his blessings may fall down upon you. Go ahead and walk on through your fears because it's time that you stop letting the devil beat you down; but rather, it's time to beat him back and beat him down forever by taking back everything he has stolen from you, such as your joy, health, hurt, loss, emptiness, loneliness, faith, love etc. You don't have to cry anymore unless it's tears of joy because I can take you to my dearest and nearest friend (Jesus) indeed; you can trust him to be your bridge to safety in any kind of troubling waters. Love-Monica Goolsby
How to Inhabit Time
★ Publishers Weekly starred review2023 Christian Book Award(R) Winner (Christian Living)Christianity Today 2023 Book Award Finalist (Christian Living & Spiritual Formation)Outreach 2023 Recommended Resource (Christian Living)A "Best Book of 2022," Englewood Review of Books"This incisive and eloquent volume will expand readers' minds."--Publishers Weekly"A beautifully written book. . . . [Smith] offers a good, pastoral word to Christians today."--Christian CenturyMany Christians live a faith that is "nowhen." They are disconnected from the past or imagine they are somehow "above" the flux of history, as if every generation starts with a clean state. They lack an awareness of time and the effects of history--both personal and collective--and thus are naive about current issues, prone to nostalgia, or fixated on the end times and other doomsday versions of the future.Popular speaker and award-winning author James K. A. Smith explains that we must reckon with the past in order to discern the present and have hope for the future. Integrating popular culture, biblical exposition, and meditation, he helps us develop a sense of "temporal awareness" that is attuned to the texture of history, the vicissitudes of life, and the tempo of the Spirit.Smith shows that awakening to the spiritual significance of time is crucial for orienting faith in the twenty-first century. It allows us to become indebted to the past, oriented toward the future, and faithful in the present.
