Brant D. Baker

Avoiding theological jargon and using language more accessible to the lay person than that in the Bible, this book invites readers to discover for themselves what Jesus has done for the world and continues to do in the world. The invitation is offered in the form of daily readings from the four Gospel accounts of Jesus' life and ministry.

The Bible features cows in abundance, and in great variety. There are, of course, numerous mentions of the gentle beast we all know and love. These humble servants are often overlooked, so quiet is their appearance, but they are found in this study: the seven fat cows of Pharaoh's dream, the cattle on a thousand hills, the calf and the bear of Isaiah's vision, the lowing cattle of the manger, and of course, cows and calves both fattened and golden. Come explore the lessons only cows can teach in this delightful six-session study, suitable for individuals or small groups.

A small group or Sunday School Bible study that examines the use of wine in the Old and New Testaments. These eight interactive sessions are designed to engage both the mind and the senses as participants read Scripture, learn interesting facts about both God's word and the world of wine, engage in meaningful conversation, and perhaps also share a glass of wine together each time they meet. Session titles include Wine in the Bible, Don't Be Noah, Passover, What Did Jesus Drink?, Water to Wine, Old Wine New Skins, Be A Branch, and Deeper Meanings - The Last Supper. Wine was an important part of culture and faith in biblical times. "Wine in the Bible" will put new energy and fun into your small group study.

Did the older son ever join the party? That was the simple question that led me to write these stories. Not that what Jesus said and taught wasn't enough, or was insufficient in any way. God's word is "full and complete" and sufficient for us in every way. Rather, the premise of this collection is meant to build on the imaginative and creative work of our Lord, and to further harness the wonderful love of story that God has built into the human heart. It is this human capacity for story that has led to the present collection. The stories that follow are a playful reflection on what might have happened had the stories in the parables continued. It is hoped that God's love of stories, and their capacity to communicate truth to us such that it bypasses our usual defenses, will be woven together by the reader's imagination and used to bring deeper insight into God's Word. These stories can be used in either personal or group settings. If used with a group it might be beneficial for everyone to have their own copy, both to help with following the narrative, and for notes and insights.

This practical guidebook offers eight lessons to help pastors and other church leaders teach adults how to communicate with God through various types of prayer. Each chapter opens with background information on a specific aspect of prayer and concludes with a lesson related to the chapter topic. Each chapter also includes experiential exercises and activities, informational charts and tables for leaders, and reproducible worksheets and handouts for the class participants.