September 2023 MBR The Christian Studies Shelf

The Christian Studies Shelf

Sacred Self-Care
Chanequa Walker-Barnes
HarperOne
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
Blackstone Audiobooks
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9780063287136, $21.99, PB, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Self-Care-Practices-Nurturing-Selves/dp/0063287137

Synopsis: As Christians, taking care of ourselves is essential, and lately, we've started to pay more attention to the ways our physical bodies need and deserve nourishment. But we are not just bodies, we sacred beings, and our souls need just as much care and attention to be healthy.

As a clinical psychologist, pastor, and activist, Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes has studied and worked with clients, clergy, seminary faculty, faith-based activists, and others to encourage them to think of self-care as both a divine right and a sacred obligation. She has developed a seven-week guide gathering activities, habits, disciplines, and practices that promote spiritual, physical, emotional, mental, and relational wholeness.

With the publication of "Sacred Self-Care: Daily Practices for Nurturing Our Whole Selves", includes a daily story alongside short and simple prompts and scripture passages that help us shift behaviors in the short term and create lifelong habits. Each week walks readers through the following areas: Mastering the Self-Care Fundamentals; Practicing Self-Compassion; Setting Healthy Boundaries; Caring for Our Emotional Selves; Caring for Our Minds; Practicing Self-Care as a Way of Life.

Also included is an inventory for identifying areas you may need to focus on, and a "Rule of Life" guide to help you direct your self-care practice and maintain it throughout the year. Inspiring and practical, ruminative and actionable, "Sacred Self-Care" invites us on a journey to craft a sustainable self-care practice to care for our whole selves.

Critique: As informed and informative as it is inspired and inspiring, "Sacred Self-Care: Daily Practices for Nurturing Our Whole Selves" is especially and unreservedly recommended reading for all members of the Christian community (including clergy, seminary students) regardless of denominational affiliations. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Sacred Self-Care" is especially timely in this current era of civil, political, economic, spiritual, and secular unrest. It should be noted that "Sacred Self-Care" is also readily avialable in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798212694070, $31.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes is a clinical psychologist and professor of practical theology and pastoral care at Columbia Theological Seminary. Her work focuses upon writing and ministering to clergy and faith-based activists, and supporting women of color engaged in Christian social justice activism. She is the author of I Bring the Voices of My People and Too Heavy a Yoke. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanequa_Walker-Barnes)

Pilgrim
Ruth Chou Simons
Harvest House Publishers
www.harvesthousepublishers.com
9780736982924, $34.99, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Pilgrim-Ways-Character-Leads-Onward/dp/0736982922

Synopsis: Followers of Christ live each day as a pilgrim, traveling the path Jesus sets before them. Though the road may be rocky, God provides reminders along the way to show that He writes our story, paves our path, and walks with us always.

With the publication of "Pilgrim: 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward", author and artist Ruth Chou Simons provides an uplifting meditation on the character of God to accompany us on our pilgrim journey.

Featuring stunning new artwork, these 25 devotions will lead us to: Explore proof of God's faithfulness found in both Scripture and daily life; Engage with many key attributes of God; Encounter hymns written throughout history that illuminate timeless truths about who God is; and Experience the peace that accompanies focusing your heart on God's character.

"Pilgrim" reminds us of profound truths by showing us how God's grace and provision shape each Christian's unique journey of conforming to the image of Christ. On the path of spiritual growth and maturity, knowing God's character makes all the difference. When our travels leave us worn and weary, God will not abandon us. We can lay your burdens in His hands, find hope in His presence, and follow His path as He leads us onward.

Critique: Visually enhanced with the profuse inclusion of watercolor artwork, this large volume hardcover format (7.75 x 1 x 9.75 inches, 2.08 pounds) edition of "Pilgrim: 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward" from Harvest House Publishers is inspired and inspiring, making it especially and unreservedly recommended for all members of the Christian community regardless of denominational affiliation.

Editorial Note: Ruth Chou Simons (https://ruthchousimons.com) is an award-winning author of several books -- including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, and Foundations. She is an artist, entrepreneur, and speaker, using each of these platforms to spiritually sow the Word of God into people's hearts. Through her online shop at www.GraceLaced.com and her social media community, Simons shares her journey of God's grace intersecting daily life with word and art. .

The Augustine Way
Joshua D. Chatraw, author
Mark D. Allen, author
Baker Academic
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton, Ada, MI 49301
www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
9781540962485, $24.99, HC, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Augustine-Way-Retrieving-Churchs-Apologetic/dp/1540962482

Synopsis: Apologetics is the religious discipline of defending religious doctrines through systematic argumentation and discourse. Early Christian writers (c. 120-220) who defended their beliefs against critics and recommended their faith to outsiders were called Christian apologists. In 21st-century usage, apologetics is often identified with debates over religion and theology. (Wikipedia)

As Christians living today, what can we learn from Augustine about apologetics? With the publication of "The Augustine Way: Retrieving a Vision for the Church's Apologetic Witness", co-authors Joshua D. Chatraw and Mark D. Allen collaborate to reveal how Augustine defended the Christian faith in late antiquity and how his approach to engaging the culture has great significance for the apologetic task today.

Joshua Chatraw and Mark Allen effectively recover Augustine's mature apologetic voice to address the challenges facing today's church. The Augustine Way offers a compelling argument for Christian witness that is rooted in tradition and engaged with contemporary culture. It focuses on Augustine's best-known works, Confessions and The City of God, to retrieve his scriptural and ecclesial approach for a holistic apologetic witness.

Critique: "The Augustine Way: Retrieving a Vision for the Church's Apologetic Witness" will prove to be immensely useful for seminary students of Christian theology and history, as well as for pastors, church leaders, and practitioners of Christian apologetics. It puts pastors and churches back at the center of apologetics, transcending popular contemporary methods with a view to a more effective witness in post-Christendom. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99), "The Augustine Way" is very highly recommended as an essential and informative addition to church, seminary, and academic library Christian Theology & History collections, as well as supplemental Augustinian curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note #1: Joshua D. Chatraw (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the Billy Graham Chair of Evangelism and Cultural Engagement at Beeson Divinity School. (https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/profile/joshua-chatraw)

Editorial Note #2: Mark D. Allen (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. He has served as a pastor and church planter for over twenty years. (https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/profile/mark-allen)

Centering Jesus
Derek Vreeland
NavPress
www.navpress.com
c/o Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
www.tyndale.com
Oasis Audio
www.oasisaudio.com
9781641586191, $17.99, PB, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Centering-Jesus-Transforms-Communities-Spiritual/dp/1641586192

Synopsis: With all the hostility boiling just under the surface of our world, and breaking out in all manner of conflicts around the globe and here at home, we need a renewed vision of Jesus as the Lamb of God who can lead us in the peaceable ways of the Kingdom. When we fail to keep Jesus at the center of our lives, we lean into the desires of our hearts more than the desires God has for us. As a result, our entire spirituality becomes driven by the self and for the self. We need renewed practices of centering Jesus in our hearts and minds.

With the publication of "Centering Jesus: How the Lamb of God Transforms Our Communities, Ethics, and Spiritual Lives", Derek Vreeland invites you to imagine what it looks like to keep Jesus as the Lamb of God at the center of three key areas of our lives -- our spiritual formation, our moral lives, and our common life together. With the deep divide in American culture and the polarization that continues to grow, we need a renewed focus on the Lamb so that we might blaze a path forward into civility and kindness.

"Centering Jesus" shows how to: Identify the problems that occur when Jesus is obscured from our view; Walk through some of the key biblical descriptions of the Lamb; Describe a Lamb-shaped and Jesus-centered approach to the Christian virtues of faith, hope, and love, the foundation of our moral lives; Experience the Lamb at the center of common life together, specifically worship life, participation in acts of justice, and political life.

Critique: Inspired, inspiring, and off particular relevance and value to readers with an interest in adult Christian discipleship, ministry, and spiritual growth, "Centering Jesus: How the Lamb of God Transforms Our Communities, Ethics, and Spiritual Lives" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, church and seminary Christian Theology & Conflict Resolution collections. It should be noted for clergy, seminary students, and non-specialist general readers and members of the Christian community that "Centering Jesus" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.09) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Oasis Audio, 9781685924089, $27.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Derek Vreeland (https://derekvreeland.com) is the Discipleship Pastor at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri, where he is known for his thoughtful, humorous, and authentic teaching style. In addition to teaching and leading discipleship ministries at Word of Life Church, Derek enjoys reading, running, and hiking. He is a graduate of Missouri Western State University (B.A. English/Writing), Oral Roberts University (M.Div.), and Asbury Theological Seminary (D.Min). He is also the author of several books Primal Credo, a fresh reading of the Apostles' Creed for modern followers of Jesus, two reader's guides to N.T. Wright books, By the Way, a book for discipleship.

The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism, revised edition
Carl McColman
Broadleaf Books
510 Marquette Avenue N, Minneapolis, MN 55402
www.broadleafbooks.com
9781506486840, $25.99, PB, 402pp

https://www.amazon.com/New-Book-Christian-Mysticism-Contemplative/dp/1506486843

Synopsis: Traditional Christianity is in crisis. Is mysticism necessary for the survival of Christianity? What exactly is Christian mysticism? How can it be relevant in our crisis-ridden world? Questions like these inspired the publication of "The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality" in a newly updated edition from beloved spiritual teacher Carl McColman.

"The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism" aptly serves as both introduction and practical instruction for a living contemplative practice today. In addition to the overview of mysticism, spiritual and prayer practices in mysticism, the various types of mysticism in Christian tradition, and influential mystics through the millennia, this new second edition of "The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism" offers an embodied understanding of the mystic life with a more diverse range of voices and perspectives ranging from Howard Thurman to Pauli Murray. It also includes new chapters and themes that address embodied mysticism, contemplation and social justice, and the ongoing relevance of Jesus's message of radical equality and inclusivity.

"The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism" introduces both Christians and non-Christians to the contemplative tradition within Christianity, a tradition that has often been marginalized or cloistered (to the church's detriment). As a practice-oriented book, this is an invitation to embrace the mystical element within Christianity -- a practice that can equip faithful persons with a joyful sense of divine intimacy, not just for personal benefit but as a foundation to a life of service and activism in the interest of justice.

McColman's overview of mysticism shows how it has been practiced and lived through the centuries and will prove inspirational for today's seekers, regardless of their faith tradition. At its heart, Christian mysticism is an ancient practice that incorporates meditation, contemplation, worship, philosophy, the quest for enlightenment, the thirst for a better world, and the experience of divine presence.

Critique: Deftly organized into two major sections (The Christian Mystery & The Contemplative Life), this newly expanded second edition of "The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality" is further enriched for the reader with the inclusion of three Appendices, a four page listing of Acknowledgments, a sixteen page Bibliography, and eight pages of Notes. "The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality" must be considered a core addition to personal, professional, community, church, seminary, college, and university library Christian Theology/Mysticism collections. It should be noted for seminary students, clergy, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism: An Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).

Editorial Note: Carl McColman (https://anamchara.com/carl) is a contemplative writer, storyteller, podcaster, and spiritual director. He is a life-professed member of a lay Cistercian community under the spiritual guidance of Trappist monks. He is the author of numerous books, including Eternal Heart, and regularly speaks and leads retreats on topics related to Christian mysticism, Celtic spirituality, and interfaith dialogue. Carl and his wife, artist Fran McColman, live near Atlanta, Georgia.

An Afternoon's Dictation
Steen Greenebaum
MSI Press
https://msipress.com
9781957354248, $19.95, PB, 162pp

https://www.amazon.com/Afternoons-Dictation-Steven-Greenebaum/dp/1957354240

Synopsis: In 1999 Steven Greenebaum felt he'd hit the wall. Fifty years old, he could not make sense of his life or the world around him. For several months he angrily demanded answers from God, if God were there. One afternoon, an inner voice told him to get a pen and paper and write. Steven then took dictation resulting in three pages, not of commandments but guidance for leading a meaningful life.

"An Afternoon's Dictation: Inclusive Revelations for the Twenty-First Century" grapples with, organizes, and deeply explores the revelations Steven received and then studied for over ten years. His sharing is NOT offered as the only possible way to understand it the dictation. It is offered, rather, as a start.

The book's sections include deep explorations into "The Call to Interfaith," "The Call to Love One Another," "The Call to Justice," and "The Call to Community." These explorations
are rooted in a crucial part of the dictation that directs us to "Seek truth in the commonality of religions - which are but the languages of speaking to Me."

Thus, "An Afternoon's Dictation" builds on what unites our diverse spiritual traditions, not what divides us. It shows us a path to respecting our differences while embracing unity of the great callings of our spiritual traditions. "An Afternoon's Dictation" provides caring guidance forward in these hugely challenging times -- if we, as Christians, are open to it.

Critique: Fascinating, inspiring, articulate, engaging, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "An Afternoon's Dictation" is an extraordinary and welcome series of observation, commentary, and insights for all members of the Christian community, as well as students of philosophy and metaphysical studies. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99), "An Afternoon's Dictation" is highly recommended for personal reading lists and community, academic, and seminary library collections.

Editorial Note: Steven Greenebaum (https://msipress.com/authors/steven-greenebaum) is the author of The Interfaith Alternative, Practical Interfaith, One Family: Indivisible, and Seeking Balance in an Unbalanced Time. An Interfaith minister and founder of the Living Interfaith Church, Steven holds Master's Degrees in Mythology, Music, and Pastoral Studies. He has dedicated his life to the oneness of humanity, working for social and environmental justice through a multitude of forums, including work with Common Cause, marching at Standing Rock, and acting as Founder/Executive Director of Citizens for Environmental Responsibility.

The Day GOD Rested
Philip L. Arnold
Clay Bridges Press
https://claybridgespress.com
9781684880751, $26.99, HC, 204pp

https://www.amazon.com/Day-GOD-Rested-Philip-Arnold/dp/1684880750

Synopsis: Many of us grew up hearing about The Ten Commandments in scripture. Some of us were even taught to live by them. But very few people have ever been able to agree on the meaning of one of those Ten Commandments. And that is to "remember The Sabbath Day to keep it Holy."

Many traditions and opinions surround the modern interpretation of this Commandment today. In fact, there are so many opinions that it is becoming more and more necessary to try to see through all of them just to find the answer to one simple question: What does GOD say about HIS Sabbath? That's where "The Day GOD Rested" by Philip Arnold comes in.

"The Day GOD Rested" is an impressively exhaustive biblical study on the subject of The Sabbath and how it should be observed according to scripture. Arnold breaks down the topic into manageable lessons in such a way that anyone can understand the key concepts. Each and every chapter explains a different facet of The Sabbath based upon scripture. That includes everything from the simple, straightforward application, to the deep, Prophetic implications of what GOD is trying to teach us through this Holy Day.

"The Day GOD Rested" reveals the incredible blessings in this Holy Day that GOD has set aside just for those who seek to live their lives according to HIS commandments.

Critique: Eloquent, erudite, inspired and inspiring, "The Day GOD Rested" will have a very special appeal to readers with an interest in a Christian perspective on the Sabbath that is based upon canonical scripture. While especially and unreservedly recommended for church, seminary, community, and academic library Biblical Studies/Christian Theology collections, it should be noted for clergy, seminary students, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Day GOD Rested" is also available in a paperback edition (9781684880539, $19.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

New Testament Readings & Devotionals, Volume 2
C.M.H. Koenig (compiler)
C.M.H. Koenig Books (through IngramSpark)
www.cmhkoenigbooks.net
9781956475272, $14.99 Paperback

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/new-testament-readings-devotionals-c-m-h-koenig/1140675150

Having completed his devotional guidebooks for the Old Testament of the Bible, C.M.H. Koenig continues his structure and its accessible, meaningful outreach to Bible students with the second volume of New Testament Readings & Devotionals. As with his other study guides, selected Biblical passages are interpreted and considered by Robert Hawker, Charles H. Spurgeon, and Octavius Winslow. These three scholarly thinkers add the critical inspections and considerations that connect Biblical passages to daily life. In this volume, readings come from most of Acts, James, Galatians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Corinthians, and Romans. This covers Christ's ascension into heaven, Pentecost, and events through Paul's third missionary trip. The books of each are the chapter headings, making it easy to link the devotionals with Biblical readings for scholars seeking further cross-referencing and enlightenment.

Each reading is generally a chapter, with the excerpted devotional accompanying those providing deeper inspections that encourage Biblical students to analyze and savor Scripture in a different, more studious manner. Footnotes provide further Biblical references for students who would continue their studies prompted by the passages and devotionals designed to test reader knowledge and spiritual reflection. The opportunities for enlightenment and better understanding of not just the Word of God but its presence in daily life are many. Throughout this connection between Scripture and devotional, readers receive admonitions and rich encouragement to link Christian concepts to daily living.

From the heart and soul of a believer to what it means to walk in Christ's footsteps, led by the Biblical guides represented in the Book and interpreted with joyful reflection here, readers receive a rare opportunity to conduct in-depth studies even if they are not of the scholarly ilk. Meanwhile, Bible reading groups and study circles receive a guided devotional that helps them better absorb the full meaning of Christ and God's word. The second book of the New Testament comes to life under Koenig's organizational prowess and the analyses of these three contributors.

Bible students who would conduct guided independent study or work in discussion groups will find New Testament Readings & Devotionals Volume 2 and its predecessors an ongoing opportunity for better spiritual understanding and enlightenment.

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