Religiøse institutioner og organisationer

From the Pews to the Unreached PlacesChurches on Mission examines the history, theology, case studies, and actual ministry practices that have shaped local church participation in missions. This book not only inspires and informs readers from local churches; it also invites them to become active participants in God's mission. The chapters give practical and theological insights on topics such as cross-cultural evangelism, community engagement, and mobilizing church members for missions. Part one offers biblical and historical perspectives concerning the church on mission. Contributors contend that the church should be decentralized and recognize that the New Testament grants us the flexibility to adapt forms of worship and ministry. The second section draws on case studies from the Majority World, showing how local churches labor with God on mission.Lastly, attention shifts to the North American context. The final section stresses several themes, such as the importance of training among African American churches, evangelistic opportunities and theological challenges presented by Hispanic churches in America, and the difficulties faced by immigrant churches as they try to reach out beyond their own ethnic group.This volume is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding how local churches can engage in missionary work, providing insights into the Bible and history, case studies from the Majority World, and practical strategies for empowering God's people.

Lifting Up a Vision of HolinessThe Missionary Family delves into the complex role that missionary families play in the Protestant missionary movement. The presence of families in mission fields has both enabled and restricted the outreach of Protestant missions, raising unique concerns for the conduct of mission workers. Part 1 explores the significance of missionary families and their impact on missionary outreach, including the role of missionary children, their status, education, settlement, and contributions to the mission field.However, the book also addresses a darker side of missionary work that has come to light in recent years: sexual abuse in mission settings. Part 2 examines difficult and pressing questions surrounding this issue, including how to understand allegations of abuse based on recovered memories. Through legal, historical, and psychological perspectives, the book offers insight into how the mission community can address this urgent issue. In addition, Part 3 features a forum on sexual orientation and mission. Fourteen evangelical scholars participate in a discussion that invites ongoing missiological conversation about a timely topic. The Missionary Family offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of families in missionary work and provides valuable insights into addressing the serious concerns that have arisen within the mission community.

Historical Precedents and a Promising ProposalControversies in Mission reflects on how mission is done in light of the new layers of complexity that globalization brings. The contributors highlight how communication and travel make us more aware of controversies in mission. While controversies are not new, globalization gives us tools to become more aware of our surroundings and to interact with others in unprecedented ways. Part one examines theological issues that arise in mission, including how we interact with others, mission priorities, and the role of ethics within missiological practice. The chapters engage with age-old topics that have been debated throughout history, such as power struggles, perspectives on cultural others, and contextualization. They suggest new ways of thinking about these topics and how to apply them in contemporary missions.The second part shifts focus from the biblical and theological grounding of mission to the people involved in mission. The chapters in this section discuss tensions that arise between people, such as church splits within multi-generational Korean American churches and conflicts between missionaries. The contributors offer suggestions for resolving these conflicts, such as engaging in a conversation on servant leadership and adopting a model of cooperation and compassion.This volume hits the pause button on the rapid-paced world of contemporary missions to consider how better to join in God's mission. It encourages readers to consider the complexity of mission in the twenty-first century and to have thoughtful reflection and dialogue to improve mission practices.

"This book looks at the five "ingredients" of organizational culture (each is a chapter) and walks the reader through shaping the church culture based on each aspect. There are reproducible pages for group study as well as questions for group discussion"--

The theme of the third conference, held on the campus of Nashotah House from June 23-25, 2022, was "From Anchorhold to Parish: English Monasticism & Anglican Spirituality." The sixteenth-century Church of England was greatly influenced by late medieval English monastic spirituality. John Bede Pauley and Bede Thomas Mudge have both shown the monastic influence, especially from the Benedictines, on the Book of Common Prayer; and scholars such as Eamon Duffy have demonstrated the continuity between late medieval devotional practices and early Anglican piety. The use of the vernacular and an emphasis on the suffering Jesus, for example, are late medieval themes that recur in early Anglican faith and practice. Thus, the 2022 conference sought to explicate how late medieval English monastic spirituality was resourced by early Anglican Christians in both their personal devotional life and in parish practice.>Dr. Ann W. Astell (Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame) Rev. Dr. Bryan D. Spinks (Bishop F. Percy Goddard Professor Emeritus of Liturgical Studies and Pastoral Theology at Yale Divinity School)

G.K. Chesterton - St Francis of AssisiSt Francis brought new inspiration to the Christian life by being a mirror of Christ. His defiance of the secular standards of success enabled him to have a Christlike impact on the world. Chesterton's biography captures the spiritual greatness of St Francis - how he abandoned wealth to embrace the poverty of his Divine Master; how he projected an inner beauty and simplicity in place of a worldly grandeur; and how he lived a life of sacrificial service rather than a prideful pursuit of power. The biography first appeared in 1923 at a critical time in Chesterton's life. He wrote it a year after his Catholic conversion, and two years before his historical unfolding of The Everlasting Man. This interval enlivened him to the complementary elements of the Christian faith - the dynamic fusion of personal devotion and universal outreach. The radiant joy of St Francis made an early impression on Chesterton. He wrote a teenage poem on the Saint and adopted his name at Confirmation. Yet he was soon aware of the cultural significance of St Francis, and the biography prepared him for the larger story of the human and the divine in history. It remains an irresistibly appealing portrait of The Little Poor Man of Assisi. Karl Schmude, President of the Australian Chesterton society and co-founder of Campion College Australia

Who leads a church? Why is this important to God?God cares about his glory, and he means to display his glory through the church. For this very end, God has established elders and deacons, members, and congregational authority. This primer on church structure connects the different offices of the church to one another and to the glory of God.In the Church Basics Series, trusted church experts write practical, trustworthy resources on issues like Church Discipline, Church Leadership, the Lord's Supper, and Baptism that every pastor can hand every church member.

We have a tendency to go about our day-to-day routines under the assumption that this earthly existence of ours will never change. But it does, and it will. Our residency here on Earth is quite brief and precarious. Nothing brings that more to light than when a loved one unexpectedly steps out of this life into eternity. We are shaken and begin to ask the bigger questions: Is Heaven real? Will I see them again? How can I know for sure?In these pages, Greg Laurie shares the good, bad, and ugly of his own heartbreak from the unexpected loss of his son, Christopher. He offers comfort to other bruised hearts and provides a hope that will sustain you through this life and beyond.

"Rise and Shine: Thriving in Your Christian Life in the 21st Century" is an inspiring and practical guidebook designed to empower new and seasoned believers alike as they embark on their journey in the Christian faith. Authored by the experienced and compassionate Christian mentor, Grace Stevens, this book presents a comprehensive roadmap for making a resounding success of the Christian life in the modern era.In a world filled with distractions, uncertainties, and challenges, many individuals find themselves seeking a reliable guide to navigate their Christian walk. "Rise and Shine" comes to their rescue, addressing the very core of their concerns. Grace Stevens, a prominent figure in Christian circles, has poured her wisdom and insights into the pages of this book, providing readers with a treasure trove of spiritual guidance and practical steps to experience abundant living in Christ.Drawing from her own personal experiences and the timeless truths found in the Scriptures, Stevens delves into crucial aspects of the Christian life, starting from the early steps of faith to the profound depths of spiritual growth. With a gentle and encouraging tone, she imparts essential knowledge on seeking God's guidance, discovering His will, and nurturing an unwavering trust in His plan."Rise and Shine" goes beyond mere theory, offering readers practical strategies to overcome challenges, maintain a thriving prayer life, and cultivate meaningful relationships with like-minded believers. The book's emphasis on the Holy Spirit's guidance ensures that readers develop a strong reliance on God's leading rather than rigid rules, promoting freedom and joy in their walk with Christ.This well-crafted guide is not just for beginners; it resonates with Christians who have longed for deeper growth and fulfillment in their spiritual journey. With each chapter, Grace Stevens infuses hope and encouragement, making "Rise and Shine" an indispensable companion for Christians looking to strengthen their faith and impact their world positively.Pastors, evangelists, and Christian workers will undoubtedly find "Rise and Shine" an invaluable resource to offer new believers, while its refreshing and relevant approach to Christianity in the 21st century ensures a broad readership. For those seeking to rise above the mundane and embrace a vibrant, thriving Christian life, this book will be a guiding light on their path to spiritual victory and joy.

Congregational authority is less about the meetings and more about the mission.Congregationalism has a bad rap for well-known reasons: inefficient meetings, upstart members, browbeaten ministers. But biblical congregationalism isn't so much about the meetings. It's about empowering the whole church to promote and protect the gospel. Pastors lead and equip. Members get to work strengthening one another and pursuing Christ's mission in the world.

In a world characterized by constant distraction and cognitive dissonance, we often find ourselves delaying to do what is right at the moment that we understand that it is the right thing to do. That is, we don't strike when the iron is hot.When I ministered in Tanzania, East Africa, I had many friends who were cattle herders. One such friend was named Danieli the Barabaig. Danieli gave me a bull's horn one day that was harvested and hewed out to be a "drinking vessel." On the outside of that vessel is the brand with which all his cattle are branded. He branded all his cattle in the same manner by which he branded that vessel-by applying a rightly shaped iron to the backside of an unsuspecting animal while it was hot. I trust that this booklet will be the rightly shaped iron that has warmed your heart and made it hot with conviction. But now, you need to strike! You need to make an informed decision that will impact not only your life and your family's life but the lives of those families who have never heard.

"Mirror, Mirror on the wall..." Most of us have a complicated relationship with what we see in the mirror. Julie Lowe's short, helpful guide encourages us to look to Scripture to find out where our true value and worth lie. She shows how we were created in God's image, designed to worship Him. This truth transforms our primary concern and directs us to a better question: how can we best use our bodies to honour Him? Contents: Our Battle with the Mirror Does Scripture Speak to This? It Touches Us All Mirrors Lie and Mirrors Isolate The Illusion Is the Answer More Self-Esteem? Where Does Real Beauty Come From? How Do We Change? Is it Wrong to Care About Appearance? This Also Changes our Relationships Appendix A: Next Steps Appendix B: Further Reading Track is a series of books designed to disciple the next generation in the areas of culture, doctrine, and the Christian life. While the topics addressed aren't always simple, they are communicated in a manner that is. With the intention of the content being absorbed, examined and applied, each chapter includes a summary of the main point, and reflection questions that can be used individually, in 1-2-1 mentoring or in a group setting.

Código de honor es un libro que explora la importancia de construir una cultura de honor en el liderazgo.El libro reconoce principios como el respeto, aprecio y coraje como parte fundamental para el liderazgo en cualquier contexto, incluyendo el entorno de la iglesia. Brinda ideas y puntos de vista que pueden ayudar a los ministros a construir una cultura de honor en sus congregaciones, promoviendo relaciones saludables, confianza y liderazgo efectivo en el contexto de la fe. Este libro busca inspirar a líderes hacia cultivar cualidades esenciales que marquen la diferencia en su liderazgo. Code of honor is a book that explores the importance of building a culture of honor in leadership.The book recognizes that the principles of respect, appreciation and courage, are fundamental to leadership in any context, including the church setting. It provides ideas and insights that can help religious leaders build a culture of honor in their congregations, promoting healthy relationships, trust, and effective leadership in the context of faith. Overall, this book seeks to inspire leaders to cultivate essential qualities that make a difference in their leadership.

The New York Times bestselling author of Be the Bridge calls people of faith to be a part of lasting change and help heal the racial disparity in our country—together.We might think of systemic racism as an unfortunate part of American history, something that happened back in the day. But the systems were never truly dismantled in our country, leaving artifacts of injustice that continue to affect every aspect of life for Black and Brown Americans. Many of us feel overwhelmed by the problem, unsure how we can make a difference. Yet God calls the church to stand firmly committed to racial reconciliation—and for each one of us to make choices that lead to healing. In Brown Faces, White Spaces, Latasha Morrison—a speaker, bridge builder, and champion for unity—explores nine aspects of American life where systemic racism still flourishes, including education, healthcare, the justice system, entertainment, and the church. Through story, historical context, and present realities, Morrison looks at what it means to recognize and confess the truth about inequities in the system (preparation), commit ourselves to changing the system (dedication), and move into true freedom as a society (liberation).  Drawing on rich sociological insights, as well as experiences of family and friends and from her own life, Morrison asks: How does knowing our country’s history make a difference in how we live today? How does Jesus’s divine act of reconciliation on the cross lead to human liberation from oppression? How might we create systems for all to flourish? This honest, hope-filled book shows us how we can reform historically white spaces and create systems that work for the good of all. Join the bridge-building movement that is listening, learning, and working together for equity in every aspect of our lives.Includes questions for personal reflection and group discussion.

In an ever-changing world, how can we learn from the past to discern the shape of mission today?In our contemporary culture, the mission of God can seem elusive and hard to define. We often focus on the present moment, losing sight of the epic story of God that has been unfolding through the ages. Michael Frost offers a compelling framework for understanding mission by drawing on the rich tapestry of Christian history and revealing how context shapes mission, just as a bottle shapes water. Through captivating storytelling and perceptive analysis, this book sheds light on how the shape of mission has changed over time, enabling us to learn from past successes and failures, and inspiring and equipping readers to engage in the mission of God in new and transformative ways.

"When the Queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord; she came to prove him with hard question." To know the name of the Lord is the most important and exciting thing.Abraham heard that God is the almighty God. Moses heard that God is the I Am, that I Am. Jacob seeks diligently for the name only to hear that the name is secret. And the same was said to Manoah.But to Mary; the reveal names was given. Jesus! "For he shall save his people from their sins."And last of all, to Paul, on the road to Damascus, when he asked, "Who art thou, Lord?" the Lord said, "I am Jesus."

"Sundulos" means fellow servants of the same Master. This book is designed to help bring along young boys to consider getting ready to serve the Master, our Lord Jesus Christ, by looking at what it takes from the Scriptures.What does it mean to serve, how should I serve, and who is rewarded from my work?? Jesus teaches that the greatest among His people is a servant. The driving force of this guidebook is to find and nurture that spirit in young men who are working or preparing for work in the Lord's kingdom, which is His church. That's right; helping others with what they need to worship God in spirit and in truth is a job! Are you the guy that God is looking for? Do you have what it takes to be a worker in the Lord's church? What if you could be hired to serve in God's house? Guess what, you can!

Bogen er en praktisk og visionær bog, der peger, på, hvordan man kan arbejde med at skabe den bedste oplevelse for de mennesker, der kommer i kirken. I folkekirken er der tradition for kun at være optaget af ydelsen: selve gudstjenesten, selve den kirkelige handling, selve koncerten, selve foredraget osv., men hvis man kun er optaget af ydelsen i sig selv, ja, så er man kun optaget af, hvad man leverer. I arbejdet med gæsteoplevelsen handler det om hele oplevelsen, altså også om, hvordan man leverer. Gæsteoplevelsen handler om alt det, der er omkring ydelsen. Det handler om, hvordan man er over for sine gæster.Denne bog er til dig, der gerne vil fremtidssikre folkekirken. Bogen er en praktisk og visionær bog, der peger, på, hvordan man kan arbejde med at skabe den bedste oplevelse for de mennesker, der kommer i kirken. Hvordan skal der tænkes i fremtidens folkekirke, og hvordan kan der arbejdes med gæsteoplevelsen? Med andre ord: Hvad skal der til, for at der også i fremtiden vil være en folkets kirke?Bogen er et ambitiøst forsøg på for første gang at arbejde med gæsteoplevelsen i folkekirken.

The CAGED EAGLEInspiration for the Journey, A short story series Triumphant victory overcoming life's suffering, injustice and loss. Entrance into the new decade has been a series of solemn plateaux, encompassing deserts of confusion, and valleys of heartbreak, and loss...Yet, dichotomously of introspection, redirection as well as reconnection to what matters most in this life, God and oneself and family and friends. Excerpt of Foreword by Author The CAGED EAGLE is a message of hope and inspiration for everyone who has experienced the harmful impact of social injustice, unexpected suffering and loss. This short-story is based upon true events of an American family growing up in an era when the "Land of the Free" was crying out for Freedom. Its storyline paints a portrait of allegorical prose interplaying the life of the family's eldest son and the long-term effects of racial and social injustices with the anomaly of an Eagle the son later witnessed being kept in an open cage. The author presents a message of ultimate victory through biblical references enabling every sufferer to triumph in every aspect of life including death through the power of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in eternal life.