Theological Themes For Our Times

Maps seven key themes of a "whole Bible" theology, tracing the Bible's unified teaching across the biblical canon.

What does the Bible say about periods? The average woman has 500 periods in her lifetime. And whether yours are mildly annoying, utterly debilitating or emotionally complicated, most of us have at one time or another asked: Why?! This warm, light-hearted, real, honest and at times surprising book gives a biblical perspective on menstruation, as well as a whole lot more. Beginning with periods, Rachel Jones takes readers on an adventure in theology, weaving together wide-ranging reflections on the nature of our bodies, the passing of time, the purpose of pain, and the meaning of life. One thing is for sure: you’ve never read a Christian book quite like this one. Whether you’re in need of hope and help, or are just downright curious, you’ll be refreshed and encouraged by this book. As Rachel puts it, “Whoever you are, my aim is that you reach the end of this book celebrating who God has made you, how God has saved you, and the fact that he speaks liberating and positive truth into all of life’s experiences (even periods)”.

A powerful and challenging examination of what Jews believe today—by a new generation's dynamic and innovative thinkers. At every critical juncture in Jewish history, Jews have understood a dynamic theology to be essential for a vital Jewish community. This important collection sets the next stage of Jewish theological thought, bringing together a cross section of interesting new voices from all movements in Judaism to inspire and stimulate discussion now and in the years to come. Provocative and wide-ranging, these invigorating and creative insights from a new generation’s thought leaders provide a coherent and inspiring picture of Jewish belief in our time.

Women Christian Mystics Speak to Our Times is an ambitious collection of essays by leading scholars that connects the modern world with the timeless wisdom of women such as Catherine of Siena, Hildegard of Bingen, Th-rFse of Lisieux, Mary of Bizye, Julian of Norwich, Teresa of Avila, Birgitta of Sweden, Hadewijch of Brabant, Agnes of Blarmbekin, Mechthild of Magdeburg, Marguerite de Porete, and Catherine of Genoa. While emphasizing the holy lives of these women, this book also reveals their lasting contributions to theology and spirituality. Bound by a common belief that women Christian mystics have much to teach us today, these accessible essays are geared toward classrooms and educated lay readers.

Thomas Schreiner, a respected scholar and a trusted voice for many students and pastors, offers a substantial and accessibly written overview of the whole Bible. He traces the storyline of the scriptures from the standpoint of biblical theology, examining the overarching message that is conveyed throughout. Schreiner emphasizes three interrelated and unified themes that stand out in the biblical narrative: God as Lord, human beings as those who are made in God's image, and the land or place in which God's rule is exercised. The goal of God's kingdom is to see the king in his beauty and to be enraptured in his glory.

With a scholar's mind and a pastor's heart, N. T. Wright helps us discover the clues John gives in his gospel that we might see even more clearly the reality of who Jesus is, the new creation he inaugurates and the difference that all makes. Includes 26 sessions for group or personal study.

Jesus said, “Go and make disciples.” So, what exactly are we doing? Western churches face a difficult future marked by numerical decline and evident signs of shrinking cultural influence. But Discipleship in Community wisely asks the church to go back to basics. What does it mean to follow Jesus? What does a life of discipleship look like? Trusted scholars Mark Powell, John Mark Hicks, and Greg McKinzie invite you to consider how good theology can lead to better, more intentional discipleship. In Discipleship in Community you will learn • how the language of Trinity matters to everyday disciples; • how God’s plan and mission is unfolding and how, as disciples, we can participate in that mission; • how the Bible is more than a book of facts and how it guides us into a relationship with God; • how baptism and the Lord’s Supper allow us to experience God’s saving power; and • how local churches can encourage intentional discipleship.