The Witness Of Religion In An Age Of Fear

We live in a world driven by fear. But should we allow fear to play such a large role in our lives? According to the religions of the world, the answer is no. In this helpful and illuminating book, Michael Kinnamon challenges readers to consider why we find ourselves in this age of fear and what we can do about it. Drawing on support from a diversity of religious traditions and teachers, Kinnamon argues that religious faith is the best way to combat a culture of fear. He explores fear in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the American political scene, and he shares courageous examples of individuals from different religions working for peace. Perfect for individuals or group study, this book helps readers understand the manipulative power of fear and how religious beliefs call us to reject fear at all costs. A study guide is included.

What does it mean to provide leadership for the church in an increasingly secular context? When religion is privatized and secularism reigns in the public square, Christians are often drawn toward either individualist escapism or constant cultural warfare. But might this context instead offer a fresh invitation for the church to adapt and thrive? Gordon Smith is passionate about the need for capable, mature leaders to navigate and respond to a changing society. In this book, he draws on his extensive experience as a university president, pastor, and international speaker to open a multidisciplinary conversation about the competencies and capacities essential for today's leaders. After analyzing the phenomenon of secularization in the West and charting common Christian responses, Smith introduces four sources of wisdom to help guide us through this new terrain: the people and prophets of Judah during the Babylonian exile, the early church in its pagan environment, contemporary churches across the Global South, and Christian thinkers in post-Christian Europe. From these resources he identifies practices and strategies—from liturgy and catechesis to mission and hospitality—that can give shape to faithful, alternative communities in such a time as this. In cultures fraught with fear and division, Smith calls for leaders who can effect change from the margins, promote unity and maturity among Christians, and provide a non-anxious presence grounded in the presence of Christ. Educators, church leaders, and those seeking to understand the times will find this book to be an indispensable resource for cultivating distinctively Christian leadership.

Fear has taken on an outsized role in our current cultural and political context. Manufactured threats are advanced with little to no evidence of danger, while real threats are exaggerated for self-interested gain. This steady diet of fear produces unhealthy moral lives, leading many Christians to focus more on the dangers we wish to avoid than the goods we wish to pursue. As a fearful people, we are tempted to make safety our highest good and to make virtues of suspicion, preemption, and accumulation. But this leaves the church ill-equipped to welcome the stranger, love the enemy, or give to those in need. This timely resource brings together cultural analysis and theological insight to explore a Christian response to the culture of fear. Laying out a path from fear to faithfulness, theologian Scott Bader-Saye explores practices that embody Jesus's call to place our trust in him, inviting Christian communities to take the risks of hospitality, peacemaking, and generosity. This book has been revised throughout, updated to connect with today's readers, and includes new discussion questions.

Reproduction of the original: The Religious Sentiment by Daniel G. Brinton

Cardinal John Henry Newman (1801–1890), a pre-eminent English intellectual and convert to Catholicism, was brought up in a low Church Anglican home where his grandmother and an aunt first nurtured his love for the Bible. At the age of 15, after a short period of entertaining religious doubts, he had a first conversion to Evangelical Christianity. For a few years he was influenced in his piety and biblical reading by evangelical authors, and later in the sacramental and ecclesial life by Anglican theologians. Then in 1845, through the study of the Church Fathers, he came to a profound understanding of authentic development of doctrine, in particular the exercise of the Pope’s office; it was then that he became Roman Catholic. He lived during a period similar to ours: one of economic and technological progress that was accompanied by an embrace of materialism and a subsequent loss of faith and moral breakdown. Newman’s writings challenge us, contemporary men and women, living in a world beset by these similar ills. His writings on the subject of holiness, the practice of the Christian virtues, the objective nature of truth and its relationship to the moral conscience, university education, and the role of the laity in society and the Church are very much needed today. Individuals, parish groups, and students at Newman Centers will benefit and learn from Blessed Newman’s life example, insights, and teachings found in this book.” Beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010, his canonization is imminent.

"What sets Faith Without Fear apart from so many others is its brevity, practicality, and inspiration. You will be excited and equipped to share your faith in a shockingly short amount of time. A great resource for individuals, small groups, and entire churches." --Gary Thomas, Best-selling author "Jeff and I spoke for the first time on his talk show, Men Unplugged. I immediately noticed his passion for reaching non-Christians and equipping fellow believers to do the same. You'll be encouraged as you learn that anyone (regardless of age, vocation, or experience) can learn how to share the gospel." --Josh McDowell, Best-selling author "If you've ever wondered how to fulfill the Great Commission by starting in your own back yard, look no further. Faith Without Fear is an outstanding and practical guide on how to start the faith conversation." --Steve Arterburn, Best-selling author "Jeff has answered the nagging question of so many Christians. How do I start a conversation about Jesus with a non-believer? Read Faith Without Fear and apply it and watch God transform the world through you." --Dr. David Cook, Author "This book will give you the confidence to share the gospel with anyone you come in contact with." --JC Watts Jr., Former US Congressman "Jeff really helps take the fear out of sharing the gospel. My greatest endorsement of Faith Without Fear is within two weeks of finishing it I found myself sharing the gospel, without hesitation, three times." --Matt Wester, reader "If you lack the confidence, don't think you have enough knowledge of the Bible to witness to others, have a fear of sharing your story, or you think someone will ask you questions you can't answer then this book will help resolve all those issues." --Jeff Brandstetter, reader SHARING THE GOSPEL HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER Do you struggle with sharing your faith? Are you afraid to share the gospel? Do you worry that you will say something wrong or that you're not qualified enough to tell others about Jesus? All of these reasons and more can be overcome when you learn how to share your Faith Without Fear! Founder and host of Men Unplugged, Jeff Jerina, gives you the ultimate playbook that he's learned about reaching others for Christ and has taught men and women for over 18 years to confidently share their faith. In this book, you will: Learn a simple, step-by-step guide for sharing the gospel to anyone you come across. Clearly understand your role and God's role in evangelism. Remove any fear that you have about sharing your faith. Be reminded you that your personal story of salvation matters. No matter your age, vocation, or biblical knowledge, Faith Without Fear will encourage and equip you to share your faith in a simple, natural way. As an added bonus Game plan, discussion questions, and role-playing sections help you quickly process and apply what you've read (perfect for individual or group study). Jeff Jerina is a public speaker, broadcaster, evangelist, and Christian pastor whose life was radically transformed when he accepted God's free gift of salvation. Since then he has reached hundreds of thousands with the message of the gospel and has equipped believers for over 18 years to share their faith with confidence and power. As a graduate of Liberty Theological Seminary and host of the Men Unplugged podcast, Jeff and top Christian leaders provide listeners around the world with solutions to ignite their faith and succeed in every aspect of life. Faith Without Fear was created to help Christians easily and confidently share the hope of Christ with others.

A moving and insightful reflection by a Christian minister on his grassroots engagement with Islam - from inner-city parish ministry in Leeds to the streets of Karbala at a time of rising Islamophobia and the 'War on Terror'.