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A theologically grounded, yet practical, user-friendly guide for church leaders seeking to save their churches. A methodical, logical approach for strategic development and decision-making. A clear process for showing congregations how to define their reality, and a map showing the way to move forward.
Art of Hospitality Companion Book: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Hospitality
Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our churches is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectations.
The Art of Hospitality, a new comprehensive program developed by hospitality experts from the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, promises to guide a local church in exactly what the program's title implies: the artform of creating radical hospitality that infiltrates the heart and culture of the entire church. Complete with techniques and strategic planning throughout, The Art of Hospitality will effectively change how you do church, leaving guests surprised, delighted, and eager to return.
Complementing the program study for leaders is a companion guide meant to prepare the congregations' hearts and minds for a new way of doing church with radical hospitality. Broken into three chapters, this study is designed to coincide with pastor sermons and provide further reading and learning away from the pews. Free downloadable sermon starters will be available online (and in the Implementation Guide) for pastors as they design their sermon series. The three chapters are divided into the following:
- Biblical Hospitality
- The Ministry of Notice
- Three Questions: Why do people need Jesus?; Why do people need the Church?; Why do people need this church?
Additional components purchased separately include:
The Art of Hospitality: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Welcome Book A foundational guide targeting pastors, staff, and lay leaders across all ministry areas of a church.
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation Guide Includes step-by-step implementation strategies for leadership teams tasked with developing and leading hospitality ministry.
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation DVD A supplemental DVD to accompany Implementation with visual training in all areas of hospitality.
This compelling and practical program has been created by two hospitality leaders with credentials to claim their expertise: Debi Nixon is the Executive Director of ShareChurch, and Yvonne Gentile is the Senior Director of Guest Connections at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection--the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with more than 22,000 members and 13,000 average weekly attendees across its campuses.Art of Hospitality Implementation DVD: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Hospitality
Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our churches is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectations.
The Art of Hospitality, a new comprehensive program developed by hospitality experts from the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, promises to guide a local church in exactly what the program's title implies: the artform of creating radical hospitality that infiltrates the heart and culture of the entire church. Complete with techniques and strategic planning throughout, The Art of Hospitality will effectively change how you do church, leaving guests surprised, delighted, and eager to return.
The Implementation Guide and supplemental DVD are vital follow-up resources targeting teams and leaders tasked to put The Art of Hospitality principles into practice. Step by step, this guide leads the way to converting principles, inspiration, and excitement into action.
Additional components purchased separately include:
The Art of Hospitality: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Welcome: Loaded with key principles and methods honed by hospitality experts Debi Nixon and Yvonne Gentile in their work at The Church of the Resurrection, this guide is designed to engage staff across all ministry areas in creating a common language around the ministry of welcome.
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation Guide Includes step-by-step implementation strategies for leadership teams tasked with developing and leading hospitality ministry.
The Art of Hospitality: Companion Book Three-chapter book for the congregation as a whole or small groups to coincide with a sermon series in order to prepare the hearts and minds of the people in the pews.
This compelling and practical program has been created by two hospitality leaders with credentials to claim their expertise: Debi Nixon is the Executive Director of ShareChurch, and Yvonne Gentile is the Senior Director of Guest Connections at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection--the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with more than 22,000 members and 13,000 average weekly attendees across its campuses.Art of Hospitality Implementation Guide: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Hospitality
Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our churches is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectations.
The Art of Hospitality, a new comprehensive program developed by hospitality experts from the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, promises to guide a local church in exactly what the program's title implies: the artform of creating radical hospitality that infiltrates the heart and culture of the entire church. Complete with techniques and strategic planning throughout, The Art of Hospitality will effectively change how you do church, leaving guests surprised, delighted, and eager to return.
The Implementation Guide contains step-by-step implementation strategies for leadership and teams tasked with developing and leading hospitality ministry.Additional components purchased separately include:
The Art of Hospitality: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Welcome Book: Loaded with key principles and methods honed by hospitality experts Debi Nixon and Yvonne Gentile in their work at The Church of the Resurrection, this guide is designed to engage staff across all ministry areas in creating a common language around the ministry of welcome.
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation DVD A supplemental DVD to accompany Implementation with visual training in all areas of hospitality.
The Art of Hospitality: Companion Book Three-chapter book for the congregation as a whole or small groups to coincide with a sermon series in order to prepare the hearts and minds of the people in the pews.
This compelling and practical program has been created by two hospitality leaders with credentials to claim their expertise: Debi Nixon is the Executive Director of ShareChurch, and Yvonne Gentile is the Senior Director of Guest Connections at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection--the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with more than 22,000 members and 13,000 average weekly attendees across its campuses.Art of Hospitality Usher & Greeter Handbook: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Hospitality
Art of Hospitality: A Practical Guide for a Ministry of Radical Hospitality
Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our churches is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectations.
The Art of Hospitality, a new comprehensive program developed by hospitality experts from the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, promises to guide a local church in exactly what the program's title implies: the artform of creating radical hospitality that infiltrates the heart and culture of the entire church. Complete with techniques and strategic planning throughout, The Art of Hospitality will effectively change how you do church, leaving guests surprised, delighted, and eager to return.
Loaded with key principles and methods honed by hospitality experts Debi Nixon and Yvonne Gentile in their work at The Church of the Resurrection, this guide is designed to engage staff across all ministry areas in creating a common language around the ministry of welcome.
Additional components purchased separately include:
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation Guide Includes step-by-step implementation strategies for leadership teams tasked with developing and leading hospitality ministry.
The Art of Hospitality: Implementation DVD A supplemental DVD to accompany Implementation with visual training in all areas of hospitality.
The Art of Hospitality: Companion Book Three-chapter book for the congregation as a whole or small groups to coincide with a sermon series in order to prepare the hearts and minds of the people in the pews.
This compelling and practical program has been created by two hospitality leaders with credentials to claim their expertise: Debi Nixon is the Executive Director of ShareChurch, and Yvonne Gentile is the Senior Director of Guest Connections at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection--the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with more than 22,000 members and 13,000 average weekly attendees across its campuses.
Difference can enrich us or tear us apart. Difference can make our lives stronger, fuller, and richer or it can destroy them. Therefore, how we engage difference matters. Conflicts between different peoples around the world, the movement of refugees from nation to nation, tensions over immigration, and growing diversity within our society bring difference to our doorstep daily. We can engage people who are different constructively and compassionately, or we can allow the fear of difference to distance us from others and to demonize them. At a time when racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious differences have created heightened tensions, we need more than ever to find our bearings. We need to re-examine what we think about difference.
Author Theodore "Ted" Hiebert re-examines the Bible's stories explaining difference and its beginnings in the book of Genesis, exposing the inclination to interpret these stories as a negative view of difference. These stories recognize difference as God's intention for the world, providing us with constructive resources of living with difference today. Hiebert starts with the story of "The Tower of Babel" and moves beyond it to examine how Genesis's writers saw their unique identity and role in the world not as separate from all others but as members of the human family of which they were a part. He presents how biblical characters lived with difference and how the first Christians embraced difference. Finally, he invites the reader into new conversations about our biblical traditions that reveal a respect for difference, a generosity toward others, a desire to include rather than exclude, and a continuing interest in negotiating difference in ways that build relationships rather than destroy them.Praise for The Beginning of Difference
"At a time of increasing diversity in American society, polarized social and political discourse, and heightened suspicions about 'the other, ' Theodore Hiebert provides this much-needed and accessible study of biblical notions of difference. His readings of texts from Genesis and Acts challenge long-standing interpretations that assume and perpetuate fear of difference and urge instead the recognition, negotiation, and celebration of human identities and differences as divine gifts. The result is an ancient and compelling call for openness, realism, empathy, and generosity with one another for the survival and flourishing of all."--Christine Roy Yoder, J. McDowell Richards Professor of Biblical Interpretation, Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, GA
"Ted Hiebert teaches a better way about diversity from the very inception of scripture. He sets forth his interpretation of Genesis and Acts extensively and compellingly. Hiebert repeatedly demonstrates that old, sectarian interpretations of Genesis are not coterminous with the book called 'The Beginning'--a book that showcases the God-ordained and God-blessed difference that relates all of us to one another."--Brent A. Strawn, professor of Old Testament, Duke Divinity School, Duke University, Durham, NC
Thank you for all you've done, but I don't want your church. I want you, our relationship, our engagement, but not your church structure and outdated assumptions.
Signed, The Younger Generations
Blank Slate guides leaders to envision, and actually design, the future church. The authors start by describing each generational group currently living in the US, helping readers understand the varied context of people in every age group. Next, they explore five innovative secular organizations, drawing sharp lessons for the church. The last section includes a seven-step process for ministry leaders to engage current and upcoming generations. This book, with questions for individual and group reflection in each chapter, is a powerful planning tool for ministry teams. "In a time when so many of us want a blueprint for how to do ministry in a rapidly changing world, McIntosh, Smothers, and Smothers hand us a pencil and tell us to draw it ourselves. God has entrusted us to be the designers and visionaries for a new way. Blank Slate is the guide that you and your team need to design a new future together." -Jacob Armstrong, pastor, Providence Church, Mt. Juliet, TN
Do you sometimes feel that you're spinning your wheels trying to attract visitors and welcome them into your church? Help is on the way.
Catch is a comprehensive program for invitational evangelism developed by the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, one of the fastest-growing churches in the U.S. This newly revised and updated resource shows you how to attract visitors to your church, connect them with your faith community, and help them learn to know, love, and serve God. The Catch program has three phases:
Planning Phase
Using the Program Guide with DVD-ROM, the pastor and church leaders learn about the program, then set a vision and plan for using it in their congregation.
Teaching Phase
Four-week period to get church members on board through small groups and worship. Small-Group Participant Book and Small-Group DVD with Leader Guide will help get the congregation informed and excited about the new evangelism effort.
Implementation Phase
Using the Implementation Guide, church teams carry out the plan. This guide includes step-by-step directions for changing church culture and beginning to invite and welcome people outside the church.
This kit contains everything you need to get started with this program:
Program Guide with DVD-ROM
Small-Group Participant Book
Small-Group DVD with Leader Guide
Implementation Guide
1. Attracting People in Your Community (Marketing)
2. Making Visitors Feel Welcome (Hospitality)
3. Connecting and Following Up with Visitors (Connection)
4. Inviting Others to Grow in Faith (Membership) For each part, the steps are described, and the tasks to accomplish those steps are listed. Forms, scripts, and other reproducibles are provided.
Catch is a comprehensive program for invitational evangelism developed by the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, one of the fastest-growing churches in the U.S. This newly revised and updated resource shows you how to attract visitors to your church, connect them with your faith community, and help them learn to know, love, and serve God. The Catchprogram has three phases:
The Implementation Guide is a vital follow-up resource, for use by church leaders and other teams to put the Catch principles into practice at your church. This step-by-step guide will enable you to convert principles, inspiration, and excitement into action.
The guide describes the four parts of the Catch program:
1. Attracting People in Your Community (Marketing)
2. Making Visitors Feel Welcome (Hospitality)
3. Connecting and Following Up with Visitors (Connection)
4. Inviting Others to Grow in Faith (Membership)
For each part, the steps are described, and the tasks to accomplish those steps are listed. Forms, scripts, and other reproducibles are provided
- Becoming relentlessly outward focused
- Understanding what makes your church unique
- Transforming to a welcoming environment
- Helping individuals on their journey The accompanying DVD-ROM offers training clips, inspirational clips about Bible study, worship, and small groups; and examples of useful tools and documents-- emails, letters, ministry team tips, and more--for your use in attracting visitors and connecting them to the life of your church.
Catch is a comprehensive program for invitational evangelism developed by the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, one of the fastest-growing churches in the U.S. This newly revised and updated resource shows you how to attract visitors to your church, connect them with your faith community, and help them learn to know, love, and serve God. The Catch program has three phases:
This Small-Group DVD contains short, inspiring videos to be used during a four-week small-group study as part of the Catch program. The videos feature Adam Hamilton, Debi Nixon, and other leaders at Church of Resurrection describing their evangelism ministries.
1. Becoming Relentlessly Outward Focused (3:05)
2. Asking Three Important Questions
· Why Do People Need Jesus Christ? (1:51)
· Why Do People Need the Church? (1:34)
· Why Do People Need Your Church? (3:12)
3. Making Visitors Feel Welcome
· A Welcoming Worship Environment (2:57)
· Faithful to Jesus’ Command (1:59)
4. Inviting Others to Grow in Faith (7:31)
The accompanying Leader Guide includes information on:
· Setting up and leading small groups
· Coordinating small-group study with worship and program activities
· Discussion questions
· Activities putting program into action
Catch is a comprehensive program for invitational evangelism developed by the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, one of the fastest-growing churches in the U.S. This newly revised and updated resource shows you how to attract visitors to your church, connect them with your faith community, and help them learn to know, love, and serve God. The Catch program has three phases:
This Small-Group DVD contains short, inspiring videos to be used during a four-week small-group study as part of the Catch program. The videos feature Adam Hamilton, Debi Nixon, and other leaders at Church of Resurrection describing their evangelism ministries.
1. Becoming Relentlessly Outward Focused (3:05)
2. Asking Three Important Questions
Why Do People Need Jesus Christ? (1:51)
Why Do People Need the Church? (1:34)
Why Do People Need Your Church? (3:12)
3. Making Visitors Feel Welcome
A Welcoming Worship Environment (2:57)
Faithful to Jesus’ Command (1:59)
4. Inviting Others to Grow in Faith (7:31)
The accompanying Leader Guide includes information on:
Setting up and leading small groups
Coordinating small-group study with worship and program activities
Discussion questions
Activities putting program into action
2. Deciding what makes your church unique
3. Welcoming and inviting people in
4. Ways you can help
Stories include:
1. The Man in the Synagogue Matt 12:9-14
2. The Four Friends Mark 2:1-12
3. Jesus Calms the Storm
4. Jairus's Daughter Mar 5:21-43
5. Bartimaeus Shouts to Jesus Mark 10:46-52
6. Jesus Heals Luke 4:38-44
7. Ten Lepers Luke 17:11-19
8. The Man by the Pool John 5:1-17
9. A Boy's Lunch John 6:1-15
Victor Hugo's Les Misérables is a truly epic story. Whether you've tackled the 1,400-page 19thcentury novel, witnessed the Broadway musical (and memorized its soundtrack), or seen the several screen adaptations of it, you already know the power of its story.
In the six-week study The Grace of Les Misérables, author and pastor Matt Rawle dives into six ideals found in the story--grace, justice, poverty, revolution, love, and hope--each represented by a character in Hugo's story. As these imperfect and relatable characters interact, we can see how these ideals work together (perhaps even in spite of each other) out in the world.
In keeping with his previous works, Matt Rawle brings us to the intersection of Church and Pop Culture by drawing parallels between the iconic story and musical and our Christian calling, inspiring us to both understand our faith and live it out in the world.
A DVD, Leader Guide, youth resources, and Worship Resource Flash Drive are also available for a six-week study.
Victor Hugo's Les Misérables is a truly epic story. Whether you've tackled the 1,400-page 19thcentury novel, witnessed the Broadway musical (and memorized its soundtrack), or seen the several screen adaptations of it, you already know the power of its story.
In the six-week Lenten study The Grace of Les Misérables, author and pastor Matt Rawle dives into six ideals found in the story--grace, justice, poverty, revolution, love, and hope--each represented by a character in Hugo's story. As these imperfect and relatable characters interact, we can see how these ideals work together (perhaps even in spite of each other) out in the world.
In keeping with his previous works, Matt Rawle brings us to the intersection of Church and Pop Culture by drawing parallels between the iconic story and musical and our Christian calling, inspiring us to both understand our faith and live it out in the world.
The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the six-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Victor Hugo's Les Misérables is a truly epic story. Whether you've tackled the 1,400-page 19thcentury novel, witnessed the Broadway musical (and memorized its soundtrack), or seen the several screen adaptations of it, you already know the power of its story.
In the six-week Lenten study The Grace of Les Misérables, author and pastor Matt Rawle dives into six ideals found in the story--grace, justice, poverty, revolution, love, and hope--each represented by a character in Hugo's story. As these imperfect and relatable characters interact, we can see how these ideals work together (perhaps even in spite of each other) out in the world.
In keeping with his previous works, Matt Rawle brings us to the intersection of Church and Pop Culture by drawing parallels between the iconic story and musical and our Christian calling, inspiring us to both understand our faith and live it out in the world.
This Youth Study Book takes the ideas presented in Matt Rawle's book and interprets them for young people grades 6-12.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas
Be Transformed this Advent Season!
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and the angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh.
In Incarnation: Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas, best-selling author Adam Hamilton examines the names of Christ used by the gospel writers, exploring the historical and personal significance of his birth.
This Advent season church families will come together to remember what's important. In the face of uncertainty and conflict, Christians reclaim the Christ Child who brings us together, heals our hearts, and calls us to bring light into the darkness.
Now more than ever, we invite you to reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today!
Incarnationis a standalone book, but works beautifully as a four-week Bible study experience perfect for all age groups during the Advent season.
Additional components include a comprehensive Leader Guide, a DVD with short teaching videos featuring Adam Hamilton, as well as resources for children and youth.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas Children's Leader Guide
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh.
In Incarnation, best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores the meaning of these titles and what they tell us about the child whose birth we celebrate at Christmas. Join him and reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today!
Chapter topics include:
- The Royal Titles: Lord and Messiah
- The Deliverer's Title: Savior
- The Incarnate Title: Emmanuel
- The Light of the World
- Epilogue: The Word Made Flesh
The Children's Leader Guide contains session plans for younger and older children (grades K-2 and 3-6) including games, activities, craft ideas, and reproducible handouts.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas DVD
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh.
In Incarnation, best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores the meaning of these titles and what they tell us about the child whose birth we celebrate at Christmas. Join him and reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today!
Chapter topics include:
- The Royal Titles: Lord and Messiah
- The Deliverer's Title: Savior
- The Incarnate Title: Emmanuel
- The Light of the World
- Epilogue: The Word Made Flesh
The four-session DVD features Adam Hamilton guiding participants through the study. The video sessions are approximately 10-12 minutes in length and, when combined with the six book chapters, make an ideal six-week group study. All videos sessions are closed captioned.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas Large Print
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and the angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh. In this large print edition of Incarnation: Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas, best-selling author Adam Hamilton examines the names of Christ used by the gospel writers, exploring the historical and personal significance of his birth. This Advent season church families will come together to remember what's important. In the face of uncertainty and conflict, Christians reclaim the Christ Child who brings us together, heals our hearts, and calls us to bring light into the darkness.
Now more than ever, we invite you to reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today! Incarnation is a standalone book, but works beautifully as a four-week Bible study experience perfect for all age groups during the Advent season. Additional components include a comprehensive Leader Guide, a DVD with short teaching videos featuring Adam Hamilton, as well as resources for children and youth.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas Leader Guide
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh.
In Incarnation, best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores the meaning of these titles and what they tell us about the child whose birth we celebrate at Christmas. Join him and reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today!
Chapter topics include:
- The Royal Titles: Lord and Messiah
- The Deliverer's Title: Savior
- The Incarnate Title: Emmanuel
- The Light of the World
- Epilogue: The Word Made Flesh
The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the four-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Incarnation Rediscovering the Significance of Christmas Youth Study Book
His parents gave him the name Jesus. But the prophets, the shepherds, the wise men, and angels addressed him by other names. They called him Lord, Messiah, Savior, Emmanuel, Light of the World, and Word Made Flesh.
In Incarnation, best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores the meaning of these titles and what they tell us about the child whose birth we celebrate at Christmas. Join him and reflect upon the significance of the Christ-child for our lives and world today!
Chapter topics include:
- The Royal Titles: Lord and Messiah
- The Deliverer's Title: Savior
- The Incarnate Title: Emmanuel
- The Light of the World
- Epilogue: The Word Made Flesh
This Youth Study Book takes the ideas presented in Adam Hamilton's book and interprets them for young people grades 6-12.
Good pastoral leadership is not a "by the numbers" proposition. It is a matter of heart and soul, of devoting the whole self to the vision God gives for the congregation in which one serves. Yet neither is it purely intuitive; it requires hard, careful thinking about the directions and details of the path down which God calls. When Adam Hamilton became pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, its membership consisted of himself and his family. Ten years later the church averages between five and six thousand worshipers per weekend. Throughout this remarkable period, Hamilton learned many serious lessons about both the broad visions and the specific details of pastoral leadership.
Bringing a depth of analytical skills often lacking in visionary leaders, in this book he goes beyond simply telling the story of Church of the Resurrection. He shares the questions that he learned to ask about the largely unchurched population to which Church of the Resurrection has reached out. Further, he demonstrates what he learned by listening to the answers to these questions, and how doing so has made possible a number of strategically crucial decisions the church has made. One of those crucial decisions was to make more traditional forms of worship and praise the center of the congregation's life. The result is that the example of Church of the Resurrection offers pastors and church leaders (especially those in mainline denominations) the realization that they need not completely change their liturgical and theological identity in order to reach out to the unchurched.
Drawing on his own experience, as well as the detailed research on the characteristics of highly successful congregations he undertook during a sabbatical leave, Hamilton offers pastors and other church leaders solid, substantive thinking on steps that congregations can take to become centers of vibrant outreach and mission.
Also available in:Adobe Ebook 9780687026753
Microsoft Ebook 9780687027491
Good pastoral leadership is not a "by the numbers" proposition. It is a matter of heart and soul, of devoting the whole self to the vision God gives for the congregation in which one serves. Yet neither is it purely intuitive; it requires hard, careful thinking about the directions and details of the path down which God calls. When Adam Hamilton became pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, its membership consisted of himself and his family. Ten years later the church averages between five and six thousand worshipers per weekend. Throughout this remarkable period, Hamilton learned many serious lessons about both the broad visions and the specific details of pastoral leadership.
Bringing a depth of analytical skills often lacking in visionary leaders, in this book he goes beyond simply telling the story of Church of the Resurrection. He shares the questions that he learned to ask about the largely unchurched population to which Church of the Resurrection has reached out. Further, he demonstrates what he learned by listening to the answers to these questions, and how doing so has made possible a number of strategically crucial decisions the church has made. One of those crucial decisions was to make more traditional forms of worship and praise the center of the congregation's life. The result is that the example of Church of the Resurrection offers pastors and church leaders (especially those in mainline denominations) the realization that they need not completely change their liturgical and theological identity in order to reach out to the unchurched.
Drawing on his own experience, as well as the detailed research on the characteristics of highly successful congregations he undertook during a sabbatical leave, Hamilton offers pastors and other church leaders solid, substantive thinking on steps that congregations can take to become centers of vibrant outreach and mission.
Headlines in The United Methodist church today include words like "division," "death tsunami," and "Affinity Group X vs. Affinity Group Y." So, where does one find hope in The United Methodist Church today? The Marks of Hope, written by three UMC parish pastors, demonstrates that the church can be a hopeful model in a world affected by changes in understanding and expectations related to gender, technology, justice, mission, social entrepreneurship, etc. Each chapter concludes with a "communion" section jointly written by the authors to present ideas for working together as leaders, lay people and congregations to be a model of hope. The authors outline practical steps to hold each other close with mutual love and accountability. From the Introduction written by Matt Rawle: "So what does it mean to find hope in The United Methodist Church today? To be honest, I don't have much of an answer to what the future global structure of The UMC needs to be. What I do know is that every day I'm charged with loving, serving, challenging, and leading the folks who have found a home in my local church and those who don't yet know God's amazing grace in Jesus Christ... We can say with great conviction that conflict takes advantage of the space between us. The further apart we are, the easier conflict can find room to cause havoc. Our culture has grown accustomed to smearing our neighbor with our computer keys, but it is much more difficult to slander the person sharing a cup of coffee with us. The Marks of Hope is our offering of six ways we might hold one another close with mutual love and accountability. Hope is our destination, faith is trusting in that destination, and love is how we get there."
The Marks of Hope is part of the Faultlines collection, resources intended to inform conversations around human sexuality and the church.
A child plants a mustard seed in an empty garden. It is an itty-bitty seed. It isnt anything very specialyet.
Discover the surprising potential of one small seed in The Marvelous Mustard Seed. Based on Jesus parable of the Mustard Seed, this inspiring childrens book shows young readers that one tiny seedjust like one small childcarries a world of potential. The Marvelous Mustard Seed features ethnically diverse characters, and it is ideal for children ages 4-8. A special note for parents and teachers is included.
Is redemption possible for Ebenezer Scrooge? Pastor and author Matt Rawle believes so as he discovers the teachings of Jesus in the words of the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. Rawle dives deep into the dark, sad, greedy world of Scrooge and discovers a man in dire need of a second chance. Along with Scrooge, we meet the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future and in the process learn about living with and for others in a world blessed by Jesus. Rediscover and reinvigorate your Christian faith this Advent and Christmas season and look at this familiar classic through the lens of faith.
Chapters include:
- Bah! Humbug!
- The Remembrance of Christmas Past
- The Life of Christmas Present
- The Hope of Christmas Future
The Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7, contains some of Jesus most profound and most memorable teachings. What might these teachings have mean to his disciples, and to the others who first heard them? How do they enhance our reading of the rest of the Gospel of Matthew, and how do they speak across the centuries to listeners today? How, if we pay careful attention to his words, does Jesus provide us a road map to living as God would have us live?
In Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner's Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven, Dr. Amy-Jill Levine introduces the major topics in the Sermon on the Mount, explains historical and theological contexts, and shows how the words of Jesus echo his Jewish tradition and speak forward to reach hearts and minds today.
This book provides a rich and challenging learning experience for the individual reader and also makes a wonderful, six-week group study with the additional Leader Guide, DVD, and 40-day readings
How is the follower of Jesus to understand the words of the Old Testament? How are those words relevant to the New Covenant he is establishing? What might the words of the Lord's Prayer have conveyed to his initial followers, and why is that historical information essential to the prayer two millennia later?
In Sermon on the Mount, Dr. Amy-Jill Levine takes a detailed and colorful overview of Matthew 5-7, collectively known as Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Through Dr. Levine's engaging method of biblical interpretation, readers will come away with a solid understanding of the Sermon on the Mount in its historical and theological context.
Chapters include:
- The Beatitudes
- The Extensions
- Practicing Piety
- Our Father
- Finding Your Treasure
- Living into the Kingdom
Explore the major topics in the most popular sermon ever delivered and unpack how Jesus makes his points using a solid knowledge of Hebrew Scriptures and moral teachings.
The Leader Guide includes session outline for each group meeting with Scripture, prayer, opening activity, discussion questions, activity, and ending call to action.In this updated edition of Serving from the Heart, church members will take a 6-week journey of self-discovery as they learn more about how the Body of Christ is intended to function, and what that means to each person.
This study (also workable in 7 Sunday School sessions) leads adults through assessing their spiritual gifts, talents and abilities, resources, individual style, dreams and experiences…all adding up to an enhanced capacity to serve God and neighbor.
The DVD supports interactive group study with:
Eight 5-6 minute teaching videos with the authors
Nine video teaching tips for group leaders
PowerPoint slides, handouts, and other teaching helps
Also available are a Leader Guide and Workbook.
Serving from the Heart Participant Guide Revised
Jesus was a skilled storyteller and perceptive teacher who used parables from everyday life to effectively convey his message and meaning. Life in first-century Palestine was very different from our world today, and many traditional interpretations of Jesus' stories ignore this disparity and have often allowed anti-Semitism and misogyny to color their perspectives.
In this Bible study based on her book Short Stories by Jesus, Amy-Jill Levine analyzes these "problems with parables" taking readers back in time to understand how their original Jewish audience understood them. With this revitalized understanding, she interprets these moving stories for the contemporary reader, showing how the parables are not just about Jesus, but are also about us--and when read rightly, still challenge and provoke us two thousand years later.
The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the six-week study including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Jesus was a skilled storyteller and perceptive teacher who used parables from everyday life to effectively convey his message and meaning. Life in first-century Palestine was very different from our world today, and many traditional interpretations of Jesus' stories ignore this disparity and have often allowed anti-Semitism and misogyny to color their perspectives.
In this Bible study based on her Short Stories by Jesus, Amy-Jill Levine analyzes these "problems with parables" taking readers back in time to understand how their original Jewish audience understood them. With this revitalized understanding, she interprets these moving stories for the contemporary reader, showing how the parables are not just about Jesus, but are also about us--and when read rightly, still challenge and provoke us two thousand years later.
This participant guide provides an introduction to the main text as well as further Scripture commentary and reflection questions.
The renowned biblical scholar, author of The Misunderstood Jew, and general editor for The Jewish Annotated New Testament interweaves history and spiritual analysis to explore Jesus' most popular teaching parables, exposing their misinterpretations and making them lively and relevant for modern readers.
Jesus was a skilled storyteller and perceptive teacher who used parables from everyday life to effectively convey his message and meaning. Life in first-century Palestine was very different from our world today, and many traditional interpretations of Jesus' stories ignore this disparity and have often allowed anti-Semitism and misogyny to color their perspectives.
In this wise, entertaining, and educational book, Amy-Jill Levine offers a fresh, timely reinterpretation of Jesus' narratives. In Short Stories by Jesus, she analyzes these "problems with parables," taking readers back in time to understand how their original Jewish audience understood them. Levine reveals the parables' connections to first-century economic and agricultural life, social customs and morality, Jewish scriptures and Roman culture. With this revitalized understanding, she interprets these moving stories for the contemporary reader, showing how the parables are not just about Jesus, but are also about us--and when read rightly, still challenge and provoke us two thousand years later.
Speaking Well: Essential Skills for Speakers, Leaders, and Preachers
The thought of speaking in public strikes fear in the hearts of many. But we are often called upon to speak, teach, preach, or make presentations in our work and personal lives. In Speaking Well, Adam Hamilton offers nineteen powerful tips and tactics that lead to excellent speaking in any setting.
“One of today’s masters instructs us in the art of public speaking. I wish I’d had this book twenty years ago!” —Cal Turner, retired CEO of Dollar General
“A great and fun book for all who speak in public . . .” —Jerre Stead, Chairman and CEO of IHS Inc.
“Adam teaches us how to use the gift of words effectively and in ways that elevate and inspire those who hear them. ” —Irvine O. Hockaday Jr., retired President and CEO of Hallmark Cards (1985–2001)
“This little book will improve your preparation, content, delivery, and impact.” —Patricia Farris, Senior Minister, First United Methodist Church, Santa Monica, CA
“Want to be a better speaker? Read this book! It will remind you of things you know but have forgotten and will give you new practices to follow.” —O. Wesley Allen Jr., Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX
“An unbelievably helpful pocket resource . . .” —Frank Thomas, Christian Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, IN
“If you want to become a better public speaker, take lessons from a master.” —Mike Bonem, speaker, consultant, and author of Leading from the Second Chair
How is the follower of Jesus to understand the words of the Old Testament? How are those words relevant to the New Covenant He is establishing? What might the words of the Lord's Prayer have conveyed to his initial followers, and why is that historical information essential to the prayer two millennia later?
In Sermon on the Mount, Dr. Amy-Jill Levine takes a detailed and colorful overview of Matthew 5-7, collectively known as Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Through Dr. Levine's engaging method of biblical interpretation, readers will come away with a solid understanding of the Sermon on the Mount in its historical and theological context.
This collection of 40 daily readings is drawn from Amy-Jill Levine's teachings on the Sermon on the Mount. Containing additional stories, insights, and lessons from the author, the reader further illuminates the wisdom of Jesus' most famous sermon.
SHIPS OCT. 6
Unafraid: Audio Book Living with Courage and Hope in Uncertain Times
Truth is, a mere handful of fears work for us--fear of stepping in front of a bus, for example, or not taking care of our health. But the vast majority--fear of others, of failure, of the future--have almost no basis in reality, yet tie us in knots and steal our peace of mind. These fears, experts say, are often vestiges of primitive 'fight, flight, or freeze' instincts that, mostly, no longer apply. Making matters worse, our hyper fractious era of hate media, divisive politics, and multiplying natural disasters wreak havoc on our state of mind, leaving us troubled and unhappy.
Fortunately there's abundant good news. As Adam Hamilton shows in Unafraid, we can escape the echo chamber of anxiety and dread. With insight, intention and faith, we can learn to overcome what oppresses us, and live with courage and hope.
Drawing on fresh research, psychology, biblical principles, and his long experience shepherding a diverse faith community in Red State America, Hamilton helps readers untangle the knots of fear and truly embrace Jesus's recurring counsel: "Do not be afraid." He writes with generosity and intelligence for a wide audience in accessible language that will ring true to believer and unbeliever alike.
For anyone struggling with fear, worry, or anxiety--or who wonders how families and communities can live as peacemakers in troubled times--Unafraid offers an informed and inspiring message full of practical solutions.
Unafraid: Children's Leader Guide Living with Courage and Hope
Americans are anxious people. A recent study found that one in five of us has an anxiety disorder and we spend over $2 billion a year on anti-anxiety medications. Often our life events play a significant role in our worries and fears.
In this study based on his book Unafraid, Adam Hamilton explores the most common worries and fears experienced by Americans today. He considers practical steps for overcoming these fears, and reflects upon fear in the light of Scripture and a faith that promises again and again that we don't need to live in fear. We can live with courage and hope.
The Children's Leader Guide contains session plans for younger and older children, including games, activities, craft ideas, and reproducible handouts.
We know Jesus tells us, "Do not be afraid," but with everything going on in the world, how is it possible not to be anxious? In this five-week study based on his book Unafraid, Adam Hamilton explores the worries and fears most of us experience. Your small group can learn to identify fears and discover practical steps for overcoming them...all in the light of Scripture and a faith that promises again and again that we can live with courage and hope. The five-session DVD features Adam Hamilton presenting to a group in his engaging style. The video segments are approximately 10-12 minutes each and, when combined with the book, make an ideal five-week group study. All videos sessions are closed captioned. The five video session topics include:
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Unafraid: Leader Guide Living with Courage and Hope
Americans are anxious people. A recent study found that one in five of us has an anxiety disorder and we spend over $2 billion a year on anti-anxiety medications. Often our life events play a significant role in our worries and fears.
In this study based on his book Unafraid, Adam Hamilton explores the most common worries and fears experienced by Americans today. He considers practical steps for overcoming these fears, and reflects upon fear in the light of Scripture and a faith that promises again and again that we don't need to live in fear. We can live with courage and hope.
The Leader Guide contains everything needed to guide a group through the five-week study, including session plans, activities, and discussion questions, as well as multiple format options.
Unafraid: Youth Leader Guide Living with Courage and Hope
Americans are anxious people. A recent study found that one in five of us has an anxiety disorder and we spend over $2 billion a year on anti-anxiety medications. Often our life events play a significant role in our worries and fears.
In this study based on his book Unafraid, Adam Hamilton explores the most common worries and fears experienced by Americans today. He considers practical steps for overcoming these fears, and reflects upon fear in the light of Scripture and a faith that promises again and again that we don't need to live in fear. We can live with courage and hope.
This Youth Study Book takes the ideas presented in Adam Hamilton's book and interprets them for young people grades 6-12.
Walk Childrens Leader Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life
How do we walk with Christ--daily follow him, grow in him, and faithfully serve him? In the Gospels, Jesus modeled for us the Christian spiritual life. The apostles taught it in their writings. And the Church has, through the last 2,000 years, sought to pursue this Christian spiritual life.
In The Walk, Adam Hamilton focuses on five essential spiritual practices that are rooted in Jesus' own walk with God and taught throughout the New Testament. Each of these practices is intended as part of our daily walk with Christ while also being an essential part of growing together in the church.
In each chapter, Hamilton explores one of these practices, its New Testament foundation, and what it looks like to pursue this practice daily in our personal life and together in the life of the church. Deepen your walk with Christ as we explore the five essential practices of worship, study, serving, giving, and bearing witness to our faith.
The Children's Leader Guide contains session plans for younger and older children (grades K-2 and 3-6) including games, activities, craft ideas, and reproducible handouts.
Walk DVD Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life
How do we walk with Christ--daily follow him, grow in him, and faithfully serve him? In the Gospels, Jesus modeled for us the Christian spiritual life. The apostles taught it in their writings. And the Church has, through the last 2,000 years, sought to pursue this Christian spiritual life.
In The Walk, Adam Hamilton focuses on five essential spiritual practices that are rooted in Jesus' own walk with God and taught throughout the New Testament. Each of these practices is intended as part of our daily walk with Christ while also being an essential part of growing together in the church.
In each chapter, Hamilton explores one of these practices, its New Testament foundation, and what it looks like to pursue this practice daily in our personal life and together in the life of the church. Deepen your walk with Christ as we explore the five essential practices of worship, study, serving, giving, and bearing witness to our faith.
The six-session DVD features Adam Hamilton guiding participants through the study. The video sessions are approximately 10-12 minutes in length and, when combined with the six book chapters, make an ideal six-week group study. All videos sessions are closed captioned.Walk Key Tag Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life (pkg of 30)
The Walk Key Tag is designed to help your group or congregation members remember the five essential practices and engage them in your daily life. Whenever you pick up your keys, you’ll be reminded of these practices and their importance in your walk with Christ. Packaged in quanity of 30 tags.
Walk Large Print Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life
How do we walk with Christ--daily follow him, grow in him, and faithfully serve him? In the Gospels, Jesus modeled for us the Christian spiritual life. The apostles taught it in their writings. And the Church has, through the last 2,000 years, sought to pursue this Christian spiritual life.
In The Walk, Adam Hamilton focuses on five essential spiritual practices that are rooted in Jesus' own walk with God and taught throughout the New Testament. Each of these practices is intended as part of our daily walk with Christ while also being an essential part of growing together in the church.
In each chapter, Hamilton explores one of these practices, its New Testament foundation, and what it looks like to pursue this practice daily in our personal life and together in the life of the church. Deepen your walk with Christ as we explore the five essential practices of worship, study, serving, giving, and bearing witness to our faith.
Additional components for a six-week adult study include a comprehensive Leader Guide and a DVD featuring the engaging teachings of author and pastor Adam Hamilton. Also available are resources for children and youth.