William Barclay

Not for the first time, reviewers have had very mixed feelings about Dr Barclay's writing, and his approach to the theology of the sacraments has been found wanting. On the other hand, considerable personal correspondence and requests to use the liturgy with which the book concludes show that once again, for the ordinary reader, the author has managed to bring new meaning to what he claims has become 'a ritual rather than a reality'. `When we can neither grasp nor teach the truth,' Dr Barclay goes on, 'it is better to get hold of some part of the truth which we can understand and on which we can act. All I have tried to do is to examine the history of the sacrament, and then to set down a view of it which I know is incomplete and which I know ineans something vital to those to whom it has been through the years presented. Dr Norman Pittenger, from a very different tradition, echoes the thoughts of others in commenting: 'Whatever more we may wish to say about ?'

In twenty-two short chapters, William Barclay here takes a quick but comprehensive look at the whole New Testament. His aim is to 6ncoUrage us to read again, or to read for the first time, the New Testament itself. We are invited to stand back and regard it as a whole and not simply as a collection of texts. In the face of all its variety we are left with the following questions. In all the variety is there something basic? Is there a dominant and unchanging theme? A constant, which gives the diversity a unity ? Dr Barclay maintains that the New Testament is all the time saying three things. First, that God exists and is the creator who is still intimately concerned for all his creatures. Second, that despite this, something has gone wrong with the relationship between man and God ; man has used his free-will to go his own way rather than God's. Third, it is Jesus who puts the relationship right, either because he is the perfect sacrifice, or because his life and death are an irresistible demonstration of the love of God. The New Testament sets forth man's dilemma and God's remedy for it. These studies were first published as a series of monthly articles in the Church of Scotland magazine, Life and Work. They are now collected in one volume, with the addition of a concluding chapter.

Millions of people, worldwide, love William Barclay's endlessly fascinating ability to unlock and reveal the meaning of the New Testament in our daily life. No writer in the New Testament presents with greater intensity the full reality of the incarnation than John. Not only did Jesus come to the world as a man, but he also suffered for men and women. Aside from its beautiful ending, Jude is often neglected, but there have been times in the history of the Church when Jude was not far from being the most relevant book iin the New Testament. William Barclay is one of the very few to have written a commentary on the whole New Testament. Uniquely, he breaks down the barriers to the ancient past, enabling the modern reader to understand fully what was really said in the New Testament. Familiar stories are given a startling twist that many readers say they find thrilling because they are brought face-to-face with the characters and the action. Another reason for their thrilling impact is that people are inspired by a truly great writer. With his wonderful communication skills and down-to-earth enthusiasm, William Barclay brings hidden details into full view, enriching our appreciation of the entire New Testament and changing and deepening the meanings of many well-known stories.

A fundamental tenet of Christianity is forgiveness, but that doesn't make it any easier. Barclay explores the key stories that New Testament has to offer on the theme of forgiveness, offering instruction, comfort and, most importantly, understanding. With an inspiring Foreword by Margaret Forrester.

'Each chapter begins with a brilliantly sketched account of the city in which the church addressed lived, followed by an exposition of the Letter to that church, concise, well-illustrated and written in an arresting style. His gift of bringing out the valuable meanings of Greek words is particularly helpful. This book will be a boon to teachers, preachers and Bible readers.' Baptist Times 'Done with admirable clarity and most interestingly. It is just the kind of book to help anyone who wishes to lead a Bible Study Group.' Expository Times 'Dr Barclay brings to his task the experience of the tried preacher as well as the learning of the scholar.' British Weekly 'A direct and devotional commentary such as could be used in any parish group.' View Review

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul explains his need to understand that the grace of God is offered for all people - whoever they are and whatever their background. William Barclay's commentary takes us through the letter and helps us to unpeel the inspiring layers of meaning in the description of the quality of grace. In the letter to the Ephesians, the nature of the tension between good and evil is explored and Christians are encouraged to put aside harmful self-interest and live together in unity.

A Book of Everyday Prayers by William Barclay is a collection of prayers for daily use. The book contains a variety of prayers for different occasions, including morning and evening prayers, prayers for personal reflection and guidance, and prayers for special occasions such as weddings and funerals. The prayers are written in a simple and accessible language, making them easy to understand and use for anyone. The book is designed to help readers connect with their spirituality and develop a deeper relationship with God through prayer. It is a valuable resource for anyone looking to incorporate prayer into their daily routine and seeking guidance and inspiration in their spiritual journey. This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

William Barclay takes us through the letters of Timothy, TitusPhilemon, unlocking the inspiring message that all of us can learn, in all circumstances, to approach our lives and those who depend upon us with mercy, grace, steadfastness and kindness.

Revelation is stylistically unlike any other part of the New Testament and is notoriously bewildering and difficult to understand. William Barclay carefully explores its themes in ways that lead us to the revelation that Christians shall know heaven and the true glory of God.

Fishers of Men: The Life and Work of the Evangelist is a book written by William Barclay that explores the life and teachings of Jesus' disciples, particularly the twelve apostles who were chosen by Jesus to spread his message to the world. The book delves into the personalities, backgrounds, and experiences of each of the apostles and how they were transformed by their encounter with Jesus. Barclay examines the challenges that the apostles faced as they embarked on their mission, including persecution, rejection, and even death. He also explores the impact that the apostles had on the early church and how their teachings continue to influence Christian beliefs and practices today. Throughout the book, Barclay draws on his extensive knowledge of the Bible and his deep understanding of the historical and cultural context in which the apostles lived. He provides insightful commentary on the teachings of Jesus and the significance of the apostles' work in spreading his message. Fishers of Men is a compelling and thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on the lives and teachings of the apostles. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Christianity and the impact that the apostles had on the world. Being The Eleventh Joseph Smith Memorial Lecture, October 1, 1960. This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

The miracles of Jesus fulfil multiple functions, not least as part of Christ's ministry. They are a demonstration of God's power and Jesus' love for people of all castes and gender. Here, William Barclay unveils all the intention and significance of these amazing acts. Ideal for Bible study individually or in groups. With an insightful and inspiring introduction from poet, Kenneth Steven.

Stylistically unlike any other part of the New Testament, Revelation is also notoriously bewildering and difficult to understand but, with Barclay's help, we are able to unlock its wonders and blessings. "The Revelation of John" contains many terrors but is also a clarion call to believers: a beautiful proclamation that, beyond the end of days, Christians shall know heaven and the true glory of God.

James is an oft neglected book of the New Testament and its place within scripture is still a cause of some conjecture, but with William Barclay's astute guidance, the true power of its instruction and inspiration is revealed to the reader By contrast, Peter is one of the most loved books of the New Testament. Written to exiles with the love of a pastor's heart, it continues to offer comfort and hope, sustenance and encouragement to readers. Barclay affirms Peter's charm and reflects on its enduring influence on the faithful

In this book, Barclay examines three very varied, but important, letters from Paul. Known as the "Epistle of Joy", his letter to the Philippians is a letter of encouragement to his dearest of friends. In his letter to Colossians, Paul dedicates some of his highest thinking to the relatively insignificant town of Colosse and defends the Church there from a dangerous heresy; and Thessalonians, Paul reassures the Christians of this town, so vital in the emergence of Christianity as a world faith, and firm solutions to the day-to-day problems which arose in the new and expanding Church.

The anonymous writer of "The Letter to the Hebrews" describes how we can access God through His son, Jesus. In his life his death, Christ delivers the faithful to the very presence of God. Barclay provides us with a deeper understanding of this unnamed author's beautiful and skilled work.

Paul distills the essence of his faith and belief. He writes to the vanguard of the new Christian faith in the heart of the greatest empire the world had ever known. We see how Paul's words are relevant in today's world, showing us that we are not too different from the Romans to whom this letter was addressed nearly 2000 years ago.

'Parables' are stories Jesus told using characters and events familiar to his audience. But parables are a special kind of story and Jesus used them for his special purposes. William Barclay unlocks these stories, revealing the hidden depth and meaning. Cutting through all the commercialism and superficiality that are increasingly typical of the great Christian events and themes, the Insights series brings the Bible vividly to life.

Told by Luke the physician, acting as historian, this is the gripping and vital history of the early Christian church. Drawing upon the incredible first-hand sources at his disposal, he provides us with vivid glimpses of the great moments in those first years after Christ's death. "The Acts of the Apostles" commends Christianity to the world, for all people of ever country. William Barclay's commentary uncovers the richness of this important book of the New Testament, showing how the characters and events relate to our lives today. In his well-informed, enthusiastic style, he shows us how, in the space of just thirty years, Christianity spread from a small corner of Palestine to the very heart of Rome.