Аннотация

This book considers basics of Christian faith about the church, conveyed through the perspectives of the Reformed tradition, particularly in its Presbyterian expression from Donald McKim's own context in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The six chapters deal with ecclesiology: understandings of the church. The book begins by considering the call to follow Jesus in the church, the beginning of the Christian journey. The Reformation slogan «the Church Reformed and Always Being Reformed according to the Word of God» orients us to the nature of the church and God's ongoing work of Word and Spirit within the community of faith. Three of the chapters discuss phrases from the Apostles' Creed. These are «I believe in the Holy Spirit,» «the holy catholic church,» and «the communion of saints.» The final chapter, called «Imagine the Church!» provides theological resources for helping us recognize and experience the God of superabundance who is at work in the world, in the church, and in our own lives (Eph 3:20). Together these essays provide theological understandings of the church while also exploring the meanings and implications of the church for Christian life and experience today.

Аннотация

This unique book is an introductory guide to the life and theology of John Calvin (1509-64). Calvin's theology has been highly significant as a major expression of Protestant theology. Reformed churches throughout the world appropriate Calvin's theological understandings and find his work provides important insights into Scripture and communicates a vibrant Christian faith. The first part of this book describes events in Calvin's life that helped shape his major work, the Institutes of the Christian Religion. The second part follows the flow of the Institutes and provides a narrative exposition of this major work, with numerous quotations of Calvin's own words. This enables readers to hear Calvin's voice as his views are explained. This close reading of Calvin opens the door to further, more thorough Calvin studies.

Аннотация

Conversations with Calvin: Daily Devotions provides extracts from the commentaries of John Calvin. The short devotion that follows explains the meaning of Calvin's quotation in light of his overall writings. It also explores the meanings of Calvin's thought for contemporary Christian living. The goal is to introduce readers to Calvin's theology so it can be readily understood, and also to see ways Calvin's theological insights–expressed in the initial quotation–can shape our beliefs and the living of Christian faith in today's world.

Аннотация

Breakfast with Barth: Daily Devotions provides extracts from the writings of theologian Karl Barth. The short devotion that follows explains the meaning of Barth's quotation in light of his overall writings. It also explores the meanings of Barth's thought for contemporary Christian living. The goal is to introduce readers to Barth's theology so it can be readily understood and also to see ways Barth's theological insights–expressed in the initial quotation–can shape our beliefs and help us live the life of Christian faith in today's world.