facebook pixel

Recap of All 2019 New Releases So Far


WE HAVE RELEASED 25 NEW TITLES SO FAR THIS YEAR.

HERE’S A QUICK RECAP OF THEM ALL.



Passions of the Heart: Biblical Counsel for Stubborn Sexual Sins by John D. Street

When the heart is filled with rage, sensuality, or pride, sexual fantasy all too easily leads to acts that were previously unimaginable. Biblical counselor John Street takes a hard look at the underlying idolatries that lead even Christians to commit egregious sexual sins. And he shows how Christ gives men and women abundant grace and strength to say no to the fleshly desires and humbly live for him. 

Mere Calvinism by Jim Scott Orrick

Whether you think of yourself as a Calvinist or not, your understanding of “Calvinism” probably involves some ambiguity. Written for those in high school and up, Jim Orrick’s fresh, evangelistic explanation gets to the heart of the matter, taking us back to the Bible to examine what we mean when we talk about total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints—and why those ideas matter. 

Simonetta chronicles her experiences of caring for a son with schizophrenia, along with all the struggles, questions, and fervent prayer that went with it. But this isn’t one person’s story. She has provided information and wisdom from psychiatrists, pastors, parents, and people who successfully live with schizophrenia, uncovering the gospel in each situation and sharing hard-won insights on how to care and advocate for those we love.

God for Us: Discovering the Heart of the Father through the Life of the Son by Abby Ross Hutto

Does God feel far off and unconcerned—or even against you? Abby Hutto presents thirteen stories about Jesus from John’s gospel that dispel our distrust and confusion by narrating through Jesus who God truly is. She interweaves testimonials from modern-day believers with further Scripture and discussion questions to assure us that God is for us and longs to draw our confused, distrusting hearts to himself.

40 Favorite Hymns on the Christian Life: A Closer Look at Their Spiritual and Poetic Meaning by Leland Ryken

Many hymns are powerful works of devotional poetry—displaying levels of artistry that we easily miss when simply singing through them. This anthology invites us to slow down and experience them as poems, with English professor Leland Ryken providing historical background, literary analysis, and a complementary Scripture text. The result is a wonderfully devotional and poetic study of the Christian life.

Work: Its Purpose, Dignity, and Transformation by Daniel M. Doriani

Providing historical background and inspiring stories of God-honoring workers, Daniel Doriani explains the Bible’s teaching on the nature, glory, misery, and eventual restoration of work. You will learn what it means to be faithful at work, even in risky places, and what steps you can take to transform your workplace and the world. Work matters. And because it matters, it’s worth reforming. God knows the good you do when you work faithfully, even if you don’t see it yourself. 

Our Ancient Foe: Satan’s History, Activity, and Ultimate Demise edited by Ronald L. Kohl

Christians are at war with an enemy who delights in rendering believers powerless, ruining their testimonies, and destroying their lives. But are we taking Satan seriously? Are we on guard against his agenda? Here respected pastor-scholars shine the light of Scripture on our ancient foe and how he operates, equipping you to “resist the devil” in the power of Christ. 

Indispensable: The Basics of Christian Belief by David Cassidy

A God-Man, a Holy Spirit, a breathtaking sacrifice, an unbreakable bond, a daily fight, an unshakable hope . . . each is indispensable to our salvation and to the shape and purpose of our daily lives. Do we understand their true importance? Pastor David Cassidy’s engaging, conversational exploration of the essentials of the Christian faith brings clarity and hope amid the confusion and uncertainty of daily life.

Saint Peter’s Principles: Leadership for Those Who Already Know Their Incompetence by Peter A. Lillback

In The Peter Principle, Dr. Laurence J. Peter argued that competent employees are promoted until they reach positions where they are incompetent. Peter Lillback, president of Westminster Theological Seminary, uses the apostle Peter’s life and writings, his own personal experiences, and spiritual exercises to guide people to be better leaders in any arena—thinking through their relationships, productivity, management style, communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, integrity, and more. 

Fearing Others: Putting God First by Zach Schlegel

When we fear other people more than we fear God, we become anxious slaves to their approval. But we don’t have to compete to be loved—we just have to understand the extent of our people-pleasing problem and embrace its biblical solution. Pastor Zach Schlegel uses meditations on God’s Word, reflection questions, and practical action steps to guide you toward the peace that comes from fearing God alone.

Assurance: Resting in God’s Salvation by William P. Smith

Does God truly love you? Are you really saved? Your doubts can’t be resolved simply with new or better information but by growing your confidence in God’s heart for you—he is not threatened by your fears! This month-long devotional, with reflection questions and practical action points, draws on the promises of God’s Word to assure you of his gracious love and care. 

Anger: Calming Your Heart by Robert D. Jones

“Thirty-five-plus years of counseling leads me to this statistical conclusion: approximately one out of one people struggle with anger.” In this month-long devotional, biblical counselor Robert Jones guides you through Scripture’s teaching on anger: what it is, how to overcome it, and what behaviors to put in its place. Daily reflection questions and practical action steps help you to apply God’s Word to your life. Learn how to calm your heart, reconcile with others, and grow in grace.

2 Kings by Philip Graham Ryken

The book of 2 Kings is the tale of two kingdoms—Israel and Judah—and the story of a prophet greater than Elijah, Elisha son of Shaphat. It has everyday relevance as it shows God’s concern for people in serious need as well as the consequences of idolatry. Philip Ryken traces its overarching narrative, connects it to Christ, and explores its applications for Christians today.

What Is the Priesthood of Believers? by A. Craig Troxel

The priesthood of all believers is a doctrine with great practical implications for all Christians. Many times, though, it is overlooked when the community of a church downplays the importance of each member’s unique ministry. Pastor Craig Troxel first lays a foundation on Christ’s priesthood and then charts an approach for living out our own priesthood every day.

Sufficient Hope: Gospel Meditations and Prayers for Moms by Christina Fox

For all its joys, motherhood includes its share of trials and discouragements. One brief chapter at a time, Christina Fox examines a range of situations through the lens of the gospel: who Christ is and what he has done for us. Whatever you are going through, she shows that the gospel meets you where you are with life-giving, soul-saturating hope. Prayers at the end of each chapter apply the truths of the gospel to a variety of motherhood’s challenges.

Hope: The Quest for Truth, Book 5 by Brock Eastman

Matching wits with the Übel and Corsairs, the Wikk kids learn to rely on Creator as they use Bible clues, artifacts, and maps to reach their quest’s final destination: the mysterious planet of Ursprung. But when the young Wikks fall into enemy hands, they are forced to tell all they know. Will the enemy use this information to silence the Truth forever? Fighting weaponized tyrannosaurs and even speeding up time, friends and foes race bring the Truth to light once and for all. 

Daniel: Faith Enduring through Adversity, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

The book of Daniel has a familiar beginning and a daunting close. Compromised as we are by the world around us, we need the good news: one greater than Daniel has perfectly lived a life of exile on our behalf. This Reformed Expository Bible Study gives groups and individuals thirteen lessons that focus on observing and understanding the text—making connections to the rest of the Bible and to Reformed theology. Lessons close with personal application and a prayer prompt.

James: Portrait of a Living Faith, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

The book of James rewards thoughtful study, overflowing with literary simplicity and theological depth. Moreover, it contains the gracious wisdom of God for daily life. This Reformed Expository Bible Study gives groups and individuals thirteen lessons that focus on observing and understanding the text—making connections to the rest of the Bible and to Reformed theology. Lessons close with personal application and a prayer prompt.

Galatians: The Gospel of Free Grace, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

Paul wrote Galatians to liberate us from performance-based religion: justification is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. This Reformed Expository Bible Study gives groups and individuals thirteen lessons that focus on observing and understanding the text—making connections to the rest of the Bible and to Reformed theology. Lessons close with personal application and a prayer prompt. 

Christ and the Kingdoms of Men: Foundations of Political Life by David C. Innes

What are a Christian’s civic responsibilities, and why? Christ and the Kingdoms of Men helps readers to become more politically thoughtful and circumspect in their use of public authority, consciously looking to and depending on King Jesus. David Innes, a professor of politics, provides a principled political theology for understanding our civic “life together,” Christian and non-Christian, in God’s world. 

Created to Care: God’s Truth for Anxious Moms by Sara Wallace

If you struggle with anxiety as a mom, Sara Wallace wants you to know you’re not alone. She provides practical tips and shows how to trust God in ten critical, and stressful, areas—from personal insecurities to our children’s spiritual well-being. Ultimately, she draws on the specific, practical comfort found in God’s Word, helping you to embrace this season with peace and confidence. 

The Promise Is His Presence: Why God Is Always Enough by Glenna Marshall

God’s presence among his people set him apart from ancient pagan gods. His presence on earth as God Incarnate split history in two. And today his presence is one of the most significant means of his goodness to us. Interweaving her story of faith and doubt amid suffering, Glenna traces the theme of God’s presence from Genesis to Revelation and shows what it means for us in our own daily joys and struggles.

I See Dead People: The Function of the Resurrection of the Saints in Matthew 27:51–54 by Raymond M. Johnson

Matthew 27:51–54 and 28:1–10 focus on Christ’s death and resurrection. These texts must be read together in order to understand their theological significance. Over time, however, interpreters have separated these two pericopae, seeing 27:51–54 as the theological interpretation of the resurrection scene described in 28:1–10. This book proposes a literary reading that properly interprets Matthew 27:51–54 in light of the entire death-resurrection scene instead of seeing it as an isolated occurrence.

A Strategy for Incorporating Biblical Counseling in North American Church Plants by Rush Witt

Over the past fifty years, the biblical counseling and church planting movements made great advances. Surprisingly, however, these movements interacted little over this time. Rush Witt aims to strengthen church plants by offering a strategy for incorporating biblical counseling ministry within church-plant DNA, helping planters to cultivate a culture of change, establish organizational structures, and equip ministry leaders to care for souls. 

Do Good to All People as You Have the Opportunity: A Biblical Theology of the Good Deeds Mission of the New Covenant Community by John A. Wind

What is the mission of the church? Some answers include extensive responsibilities for the church in broader society. Other answers are more wary of expanding the scope of our God-given mission beyond explicit biblical parameters. While affirming a God-given mission to do good in society, this study examines the larger covenantal structure of Scripture as crucial for understanding both the extent and boundaries of this mission.

 


 

Excerpt from Assurance: Resting in God’s Salvation by William P. Smith

Below is an excerpt taken from Assurance: Resting in God’s Salvation by William P. Smith.


DAY 2

“I Can’t Stop Thinking about What I’ve Done”

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. (Ps. 51:3)

The enemies of your soul are not only relentless but also dishonest. They play both sides of sin against you.

First, they flood your mind and inflame your heart with nonstop temptation, promising that if you’ll just give in, then your life will be better than you could imagine. Then, when you do give in and enjoy the fleeting pleasure of sin (see Heb. 11:25), they flood you with a different barrage.

This time, the thoughts that you can’t get away from run along such lines as “How could you? Look at what you’ve done. You know better. You call yourself a Christian? God couldn’t possibly love you.” Your heart is heavy. There’s no joy in the world, and everything looks bleak.

That’s what God’s enemies do. They provoke you in order to goad you toward a destructive cliff. Then, when you take the bait and plunge over the edge, they stand there accusing you of your failure just as loudly as they once urged you toward it.

King David has been there. The man after God’s own heart (see 1 Sam. 13:14) became infatuated with another man’s wife. He couldn’t get her out of his mind, invited her over, slept with her, made a baby with her, and then murdered her husband so he could marry her in order to cover it all up.

For a time, it looked like he’d gotten away with it. But when God confronted him about it through the prophet Nathan, David couldn’t get out of his mind what he’d done. “My sin is ever before me”—can you hear how keenly aware he is of it? There’s no escape from it. He sees it everywhere he goes, and he hates it. What once was not a big deal now haunts him.

But while the problem consumes his mind and his heart, he doesn’t stay locked up inside himself. That would be foolish. Since his mind and heart got him into trouble, they won’t be much help in getting him out. And so he doesn’t keep trying to deal with the mess or to figure out how to make things right on his own. Instead, he runs to God.

He doesn’t go to God in order to hear the same thoughts that come from within him—the thoughts that accuse and condemn him. Instead he goes to God for mercy (see Ps. 51:1), for compassion (see v. 1), for cleansing (see v. 2), for a clean heart (see vv. 7, 10), for God’s renewed presence in his life (see vv. 11–12) and for freedom from guilt (see v. 14) so that he can praise God once again (see v. 15).

He goes to God not on the strength of what he could do to make things right with God (see v. 16) but on the strength of what God does to make things right between David and himself (see vv. 7–12) according to God’s unfailing love (see v. 1).

The presence of sin in David’s life doesn’t drive him to doubt God’s love; it drives him to seek the God who loves him.


In the 31-Day Devotionals for Life series, biblical counselors and Bible teachers guide you through specific situations or struggles, applying God’s Word to your life in practical ways day after day. Deepak Reju is the series editor.

  • Addictive Habits: Changing for Good, by David R. Dunham
  • After an Affair: Pursuing Restoration, by Michael Scott Gembola
  • Anger: Calming Your Heart, by Robert D. Jones
  • Anxiety: Knowing God’s Peace, by Paul Tautges (COMING OCTOBER 2019)
  • Assurance: Resting in God’s Salvation, by William P. Smith
  • Contentment: Seeing God’s Goodness, by Megan Hill
  • Doubt: Trusting God’s Promises, by Elyse Fitzpatrick
  • Fearing Others: Putting God First, by Zach Schlegel
  • Grief: Walking with Jesus, by Bob Kellemen
  • Money: Seeking God’s Wisdom, by Jim Newheiser (COMING OCTOBER 2019)
  • Pornography: Fighting for Purity, by Deepak Reju

Six New Releases Today!

We have 6 new releases today!

Christ and the Kingdoms of Men: Foundations of Political Life by David C. Innes

264 pages | $19.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER | Kindle: $9.99 | iTunes: $9.99

About

What are a Christian’s civic responsibilities, and why? David Innes provides a principled political theology for understanding our civic “life together” in God’s world. God calls our human officeholders and their civic business to a high moral purpose. His involvement in earthly rule reveals the nobility of political life—a practice it rarely conforms to but to which we should aspire.

Endorsements

“Dr. Innes is far wiser than those such as former Rep. Barney Frank, quoted within as saying, ‘Government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together.’ Christ and the Kingdoms of Men shows that we have many ways to do things together: all who read it will learn which activities should involve government, and which should not.”

—Marvin Olasky, Editor-in-chief, World magazine

“At once learned and lucid, sophisticated and accessible, the book certainly serves its principal audience—students and the reading public—exceedingly well. But teachers and Christian intellectuals should not be misled by the word Foundations in the subtitle. The book is a formidable synthesis of deep scriptural and theological learning, on the one hand, and a broad and rich understanding of the history of political philosophy, on the other. We will long be in Professor Innes’s debt.”

—Joseph M. Knippenberg, Professor of Politics, Oglethorpe University

“This book is long overdue and much needed. . . . The Lord of heaven desires that we serve him in the governmental-political-legal realm here on earth, and this book helps us know how to do that. In addition, it enables us to ask the important questions that might take us deeper into this most crucial subject. Dr. Innes has given all of us, of whatever theological stripe, a critical work at a critical time.”

—Kevin L. Clauson, Director, Center for Faith, Freedom, and the Constitution, Bryan College

David C. InnesThe Author

David C. Innes (PhD, Boston College; MDiv, Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary) is professor of politics and chairman of the program in politics, philosophy, and economics at The King’s College.

 


Created to Care: God’s Truth for Anxious Moms by Sara Wallace

160 pages | $15.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER | Kindle: $9.99 | iTunes: $9.99

About

Young motherhood is a flurry of activity and endless laundry.

God created moms with a heightened sense of awareness in this precious season. Our hearts are uniquely vulnerable to joy and fear at the same time. Between experiencing real trials and just-as-stressful hypothetical ones, we’re a mess. We need an anchor. We need something to tether our minds to when the waves of anxiety threaten our joy.

If you struggle with anxiety as a mom, Sara Wallace wants you to know you’re not alone. What’s more, God’s Word has specific, practical comfort that will help you to embrace this season with peace and confidence. Sara shows how we can learn to have peace in ten critical areas—from our personal insecurities to the spiritual well-being of our children—and provides practical tips from other moms.

Endorsements

“The gospel is the foundation for what it means to be a mother. It is always through this lens that Sara’s wisdom comes shining into our everyday lives, where joining all the dots can be tricky.”

—Kristyn Getty, Soloist; Composer; Hymnwriter; Coauthor, Sing!

“Sara shows anxious moms the great care God has for them and their children. Through personal stories, insightful reflections, and the truth of God’s Word, she points readers to the truth of who God is and what he has done.”

—Christina Fox, Speaker; Author, Sufficient Hope

“Sara Wallace hands anxious mothers a heaping helping of grace that is seasoned with practical advice and one clear message: peace. . . . All mothers should read Sara’s excellent book.”

—Melissa Edgington, Blogger, Your Mom Has a Blog

Sara WallaceThe Author

Sara Wallace is author of For the Love of Discipline and the Bible study The Gospel-Centered Mom and has written articles for the Gospel Coalition and RELEVANT magazine. She and her husband have five sons.

 


The Promise is His Presence: Why God is Always Enough by Glenna Marshall

200 pages | $14.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER | Kindle: $9.99 | iTunes: $9.99

About

What if you didn’t have to go looking for God’s presence? What if you could enjoy it all the time?

Glenna Marshall’s awakening to God’s presence began in the depths of winter. Rereading her journal, she realized that for six months she’d been cataloging all the ways God had abandoned her. What if that . . . wasn’t true? Interweaving her own story of faith and doubt amid suffering, Glenna traces the theme of God’s presence from Genesis to Revelation and shows what it means for us in our own daily joys and struggles.

God’s presence among his people set him apart from the pagan gods of ancient times. His presence on earth as God Incarnate split history in two. And today his presence is one of the most significant means of his goodness to us.

Endorsements

“A truly refreshing read that has forever changed my perspective on suffering.”

—Sara Wallace, Author, For the Love of Discipline and Created to Care

“I commend this book to all those who are seeking the secret to experiencing the nearness of God in the darkest of places.”

—Brian Croft, Senior Pastor, Auburndale Baptist Church, Louisville

“A discovery of new and more meaningful ways that God is always near and good and faithful and kind and enough.”

—Kristie Anyabwile, Editor, His Testimonies, My Heritage

“I found a fellow sojourner and was reminded of a faithful shepherd in The Promise Is His Presence.”

—Gillian Marchenko, Author, Still Life: A Memoir of Living Fully with Depression

Glenna MarshallThe Author

Glenna Marshall is a pastor’s wife and mom of two boys. Through infertility, illness, and difficult ministry, she has learned that God’s presence is the answer to life’s every ache. As a writer, speaker, and musician, she loves to point women to the Bible to see God’s goodness in all of life.

 


We also have 3 new Reformed Academic Dissertations

P&R’s Reformed Academic Dissertation (RAD) series consists of top-tier dissertations (Ph.D., Th.D., D.Min., and Th.M.) that advance biblical and theological scholarship by making distinctive contributions in the areas of theology, ethics, biblical studies, apologetics, and counseling. Dissertations in the RAD series are carefully selected, on the basis of strong recommendations by the authors’ supervisors and examiners and by our internal readers, to be part of our collection. Each selected dissertation provides clear, fresh, and engaging insights about significant theological issues.

   


Do Good to All People as You Have the Opportunity: A Biblical Theology of the Good Deeds Mission of the New Covenant Community by John A. Wind

344 pages | $39.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

About

This book argues for a positive, biblically rigorous vision of the local church’s (and the individual Christian’s) weighty responsibility to do good to all people as they have the opportunity, as well as the continuing priority of the local church’s mission of verbal proclamation to those beyond the New Covenant community.

Endorsements

“This is an engaging book about the work of missions and raises the important questions about good deeds and lasting fruit.”

—Owen Anderson, Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Arizona State University

“As evangelicals we need to think clearly about cultural and political realities and how they relate to the gospel, to the kingdom, and to evangelism. John Wind has thought carefully and deeply about these matters, and in this clearly written work he points a way forward that should be considered by all.”

—Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation, Associate Dean, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Verbal proclamation and social action: which is more important in the church’s mission? In his book Do Good to All People as You Have the Opportunity, John Wind helpfully surveys a very important debate in the church and creatively shows how they fit together. He also gives us a timely admonition to use our words carefully lest we dilute the gospel.”

—Donald W. Sweeting, President, Colorado Christian University

“John Wind has taken up a controversial subject with a host of practical implications for the life of the church. . . . This work will be a blessing to the church as it pursues the mission Christ has given it.”

—David Vandrunen, Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics, Westminster Seminary California

The Author

John A. Wind (Adv. M.Div., Ph.D., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is assistant professor of theology at Colorado Christian University. He is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Evangelical Missiological Society. He and his wife, Rachel, have five children.


I See Dead People: The Function of the Resurrection of the Saints in Matthew 27:51–54 by Raymond M. Johnson

232 pages | $39.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

About

Matthew 27:51–54 and 28:1–10 both focus on Christ’s death and resurrection—so these texts must be read together in order to understand their theological significance. However, over time, interpreters have separated these two pericopae, seeing 27:51–54 as the theological interpretation of the resurrection scene described in 28:1–10. This book instead proposes a literary reading that properly interprets Matthew 27:51–54 in light of the entire death-resurrection scene, rather than seeing it as an isolated occurrence.

Endorsements

“In this perceptive and thoughtful work, Dr. Johnson shows how literary sensitivity can work with theological depth, and how these together support solid historical confidence. There is so much to like here.”

—C. John (“Jack”) Collins, Professor of Old Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary

“This volume should help scholars rethink the resurrection narratives and aid pastors in preaching the riches of believing in a risen Savior.”

—Paul R. House, Professor of Divinity—Old Testament, Beeson Divinity School

“[Raymond Johnson’s] unique and outstanding contribution to the study of Matthew is a great gift to both the academy and the church.”

—Charles L. Quarles, Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology; Director for Ph.D. Studies, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

“This work does justice to Matthew’s literary as well as historical and theological intentions, and in so doing helps all readers appreciate the richness, integrity, and coherence of Matthew’s Gospel and its singular identification of Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world.”

—Kevin J. Vanhoozer, Research Professor of Systematic Theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

Raymond M. JohnsonThe Author

Raymond M. Johnson (M.Div., Th.M., Ph.D., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Christ Church West Chester (SBC) in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He has published with The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology as well as Currents in Theology in Mission.

 

200 pages | $39.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

About

There has been little interaction between the biblical counseling and church planting movements, which have been developing in parallel over the past fifty years. This book explains how to strengthen church plants by incorporating a three-part strategy for biblical counseling; how to evaluate, appoint, and train counseling leaders; and how small-group ministry helps to establish a foundation of soul-care in the new congregation.

Endorsements

“I wish I’d had this book as I stepped into the choppy waters of church planting more than two decades ago. If you’re just getting started in ministry or you’re frustrated by the lack of changed lives, read this book, live it out, and pass it on to others who can do the same!”

—Brad Bigney, Lead Pastor, Grace Fellowship Free Church, Florence, Kentucky

“This book demonstrates the essential nature of biblical counseling in carrying out the Great Commission while offering a strategic plan to implement it, and it would serve as an incredible blessing to any church planter.”

—Kim Kira, Primary Teaching Elder, Lighthouse Community Church, Torrance, California

“Church-planting models have historically focused heavily on identifying church planters with the gifting of entrepreneurship and evangelism. Rush Witt presents an alternative model that emphasizes the call and gifting of the church planter as shepherd and counselor.”

—Zach Nelson, Executive Director, Pillar Church Planting Network

“Rush Witt provides a needed prescription for one often-overlooked tool for bringing the Word of God to bear on unreached communities in a winsome and loving, yet truth-filled fashion through biblical counseling.”

—Matt Rogers, Assistant Professor of Church Planting, Southeastern Seminary

“An invaluable guide in establishing the rich ministry of counseling and training in the church.”

—John D. Street, Professor, The Master’s University & Seminary

Rush WittThe Author

Rush Witt (MDiv, DMin, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is lead pastor of Paramount Church in Bexley, Ohio, and a certified counselor.

 


 

Author Interview with Glenna Marshall

This week’s author interview is with Glenna Marshall. She is the author of The Promise is His Presence: Why God is Always Enough which is releasing 1 week from today — August 1st. Read a sample chapter of her book HERE.

  • Question #1—Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in Tennessee and lived there until my husband was called to pastoral ministry at a church in Missouri. We’ve now lived in our small farming community for fourteen years doing local church ministry and raising our boys. In between writing, parenting, and church duties, I also teach piano lessons, lead a women’s Bible study, and disciple a young teen from church. I spend any spare time playing the piano, reading fiction, running, or biking.

 

  • Question #2—When did you first want to write a book?

One of my earliest memories is from grade school when I wrote a story on notebook paper and stapled it together on the sides to form a book. I created a cover for it and wrote my name across the front with a great flourish. It was a terrible story about a princess and her pet monkey and was likely derivative of every fairy tale I’d ever read, but I was proud of it at the time. I majored in creative writing in college after a high school English teacher encouraged me to use the gifts she saw in me. I suppose I’ve always wanted to write books, but I probably better stick to the non-fiction side of book writing!

 

  • Question #3—Do you have a specific spot where you enjoy writing most?

Except for the days I wrote at my local coffee shop, I wrote most of my manuscript at my dining room table. I don’t have an office, so every day I set up my laptop, books, Bible, and notes on the table and write for a few hours. Then I clean it all up so we can eat dinner at the table. I would love to have a dedicated writing space, but in the end, the discipline of writing daily matters more than the location.

 

  • Question #4—Other than the Bible, do you have a favorite book?

A book I return to over and over is Shadow of the Almighty by Elisabeth Elliot. This book is a collection of Jim Elliot’s journals and letters from early college until his death in 1956. His personal writings are relatable and convicting and always leave me loving and longing for Jesus more. Another book I reread regularly is John Calvin’s A Little Book on the Christian Life. This is a very accessible, practical book on the intersection of theology and everyday life. It’s beautifully written and greatly encouraging.

 

  • Question #5—What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Write every day and treat it like your job, even if it’s not your job. Set aside hours where you “clock in” and do nothing but write. That means turning off your phone, not answering the door, ignoring household chores, and using your writing time only for writing. That writing muscle will grow as you exercise it regularly. Even if your writing isn’t ready for public consumption just yet, keep writing privately as often as possible. Additionally, read widely. And not just theological books, but fiction. Reading stories will train you to show rather than tell, and you’ll add a lot of descriptive words to your vocabulary which will make your writing richer and more enjoyable for the reader.

 

  • Question #6—Do you have an interesting writing quirk?

I cannot listen to music when I write! I need either absolute silence or white noise. If I write at a coffee shop, I plug in my headphones and listen to a white noise and rain playlist. I find music, even instrumental, to be incredibly distracting.

 

  • Question #7—Favorite flavor of ice cream?

Peppermint

 

  • Question #8—Tea or coffee?

Always coffee, and the stronger the better! I drink Starbucks Sumatra blend as often as possible.

 

  • Question #9—What famous person (living or dead) would you like to meet and why?

I would love to meet Jim and Elisabeth Elliot. Both of their writings shaped my faith in high school and college and continue to have a lasting effect on the way I view suffering and what it means to follow Christ faithfully.

 

  • Question #10—If you have a favorite book of the Bible, what is it and why?

It’s tough to choose, but aside from the Psalms, 1 Peter has ministered to me and shaped my views of suffering more than just about anything else in my life. I love knowing that Peter was an uneducated fisherman but because he spent so much time with Jesus, he was able to pen such beautifully encouraging words that point us to the radiance of Christ.


How can readers discover more about you and your work?


 

Reformed Expository Bible Studies Series

These Reformed Expository Bible Studies are designed for personal and group use. Each lesson connects to the rest of the Bible and holds to the same standards as the Reformed Expository Commentary series: a high view of Scripture; a Christ-centered focus; a Reformed theological basis; and an emphasis on personal application and prayer.


“Having benefitted, along with many others, from the excellent and accessible Reformed Expository Commentary series, I heartily commend this companion initiative.” —Harry Reeder

“I am thankful to see this development in the Reformed Expository Commentary series, allowing these excellent, pastoral commentaries to get an even wider use in the church.” —Bryan Chapell

“Jon Nielson asks questions on the text that will make the reader think. . . . The Reformed Expository Bible Study series will help readers to understand every text in light of the whole of the Bible—as well as the person and work of Christ.” —Nancy Guthrie

“I highly recommend the Reformed Expository Bible Study series for those who desire to read the Bible through a redemptive-historical lens that will help them to draw out good gospel implications for all of life and ministry.” —Stephen T. Um


Daniel: Faith Enduring through Adversity, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

120 pages | $8.49 from Christianbook.com | Mobi: $7.99 | ePub: $7.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

The fiery furnace. The lions’ den. We all know the stories. But the book of Daniel, with its high moral standard and bewildering prophecies, is daunting nonetheless. Dare to be a Daniel? How could we even begin? Yet one greater than Daniel has perfectly lived a life of exile on our behalf.

 

Galatians: The Gospel of Free Grace, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

120 pages | $8.49 from Christianbook.com | Mobi: $7.99 | ePub: $7.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

We’re all tempted to think there must be something we can do to make ourselves good enough for God—or at least to put ourselves more in his favor. But Paul wrote his letter to the Galatians to liberate us from any form of performance-based religion, no matter how alluring.

 

James: Portrait of a Living Faith, A 13-Lesson Study by Jon Nielson

120 pages | $8.49 from Christianbook.com | Mobi: $7.99 | ePub: $7.99 | SAMPLE CHAPTER

The letter of James, overflowing with literary simplicity and theological depth, rewards thoughtful study. Moreover, it contains the wisdom of God for daily life and points to Christ as the Lord of the church and the giver of grace.


Upcoming Titles

  • Hebrews: Standing Firm in Christ, A 13-Lesson Study
  • Esther & Ruth: The Lord Delivers and Redeems, A 13-Lesson Study
  • Matthew: Making Disciples for the Nations, A 26-Lesson Study