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Author Interview with Megan Hill

This week’s author interview is with Megan Hill. She is the author of Contentment: Seeing God’s Goodness, part of the 31-Day Devotionals for Life series.

Contentment_black frame   Hill_Megan

  • Question #1—Tell us a little bit about yourself: where you’re from, family, job, personal interests, unique hobbies, what you do in your spare time, etc. 

I grew up in Connecticut as the daughter of a PCA pastor, and now I live in Massachusetts where my husband is also a PCA pastor. We have four children, and I serve in the church and work part-time from home as an editor for The Gospel Coalition. I have no spare time, but, if I did, I would bake cookies–I love any project that has a tangible, quantifiable, and well-received result.

 

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

I have always–from childhood–wanted to write. I have never–even to this day–wanted to write a book. I am probably the world’s slowest writer, and the thought of amassing that many carefully-constructed sentences is always terrifying. But I keep doing it because I think there are some subjects that deserve our thoughtful, sustained attention.

 

  • Question #3—Which writers inspire you? 

I subscribe to the New Yorker, and my favorite column is the restaurant review. The reviewer gets a tiny space (maybe 250 or 300 words), and he or she has to describe the restaurant and the food, give us a true sense of the atmosphere, and then offer some critique of the experience so that we will know whether we want to eat there too. I have learned so much from those reviewers about how to make a subject vivid and compelling in just a few words.

 

  • Question #4—What advice would you give to aspiring writers? 

I love this quote from writer Marilynne Robinson: “I hope I never condescend to the audience. I think you should write as if people who are smarter than you are will read it.” There is so much sloppy writing out there, and sloppy writing does not honor the reader. If you are going to ask someone to spend the time to read your words, you should give them words that will stand up to rigorous thought–words that are precise, compelling, and truthful.

 

  • Question #5—At what time of day do you write most?

I write in the mornings beginning at 5AM and then again when my youngest child takes her afternoon nap. I also keep a piece of paper and pen on the kitchen counter to capture any sentences that happen by while I’m making peanut butter sandwiches.

 

  • Question #6—Favorite sport to watch? Why? Favorite sport’s team? 

I grew up listening to the Pittsburgh Pirates play baseball on the radio. My dad would listen to them in the summers while doing painting or other household projects, and, to me, the sound of balls and strikes being called and the occasional crack of the bat is the most relaxing kind of white noise.

 

  • Question #7—Favorite flavor of ice cream? 

There’s a place near me that makes a flavor called “Sally’s Coffee Grounds.” Which, on reflection, sounds gross. But it’s actually amazing.

 

  • Question #8—The Lord of the Rings or The Chronicles of Narnia? Why? 

Narnia. I can never read this dialogue in Prince Caspian without weeping:

“Aslan” said Lucy “you’re bigger”.

“That is because you are older, little one” answered he.

“Not because you are?”

“I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger.”


How can readers discover more about you and your work?


 

Author Interview with David Dunham

This author interview is with David Dunham. He is the author of the upcoming book, Addictive Habits: Changing for Good, part of the 31-Day Devotionals for Life series.

Addictive Habits_Black Frame

  • Question #1—Tell us a little bit about yourself: where you’re from, family, job, personal interests, unique hobbies, what you do in your spare time, etc.

Dunham_DavidI am from everywhere and nowhere. I was born in North Carolina and then moved frequently as a kid, and still somewhat frequently as an adult. I am happily living and working in the Detroit Metro now, however, and have no plans to move again. I am pastor of Counseling and Discipleship at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Roseville, MI where I live with my wife Krista and our three children. I love the same things that most pastors love: Jesus, books, and coffee.

 

  • Question #2—Which writers inspire you?

There are many writers whose works have been especially inspiring. John Frame’s work has helped me to blend academic theological interests with practical application. Brad Hambrick’s ability to parse complex subjects has helped me to pursue nuance in my own writing. Rosaria Butterfield’s beautiful story-telling has been absolutely captivating and makes me wish I could write that well.

 

  • Question #3—What inspired you to write this book, about this topic?

I have spent the last ten years working increasingly with addicted individuals. This has largely centered around men and women struggling with substance abuse issues, but in counseling we see all sorts of addictive habits. There are so many wonderful resources out there, but I wanted a resource that conformed to my own philosophy of addiction counseling and that would meet the specific needs of the people I was seeking to help. So, essentially, I wrote the book that I wanted to use in counseling.

 

  • Question #4—What book are you reading now?

I try to read works across four areas of development: Biblical Content, Christlike Character, Christian Community, and Discipleship Competency. So, I am always progressing through these categories as I pick various books to read. Right now I am emphasizing Biblical content with Jonathan Pennington’s The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing.

 

  • Question #5—Favorite sport to watch? 

I really want to like sports, but I just can’t get into it. I try, but almost always end up bored.

 

  • Question #6—Favorite food?

Anyone who knows me will answer: coffee.

 

  • Question #7—What famous person (living or dead) would you like to meet and why?

I have had some email exchanges with Dr. John Frame, but I would love nothing more than to sit down and drink a cup of coffee with him.



How can readers discover more about you and your work?


 

Textbooks

Here’s a listing of some of our textbooks.


Textbooks

1. Theological English: An Advanced ESL Text for Students of Theology by Pierce Taylor Hibbs with Megan Reiley

About

Are you a non-native English speaker who plans to study theology in English at an advanced level?

With thirty lessons covering the major genres of theology (apologetics, biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, and practical theology), Theological English invites you to develop your English skills while actively putting them to use.

  • Build your skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing English
  • Reinforce your skills through relevant tasks and activities
  • Explore answers to important biblical and theological questions

Drawing on the latest language-acquisition research, Theological English provides practical and effective activities in a Reformed theological context. Shaped and validated by student feedback over years of use, it is a sure guide to a complex subject—and one that will take you far in your studies.

Endorsements

“This book is much needed.”

—John Frame

“This book both helps to pioneer a field where few resources currently exist and sets a very high standard for other future efforts.”

—Will Bankston, Editor, Thinking Theologically about Language Teaching

“A compelling introduction to theology that effectively builds the reader’s mastery of the English language. Though marvelously useful for non-native English speakers, any budding student of theology will profit significantly from the language skills absorbed along this reverent theological pilgrimage.”

—David B. Garner, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology, Westminster Theological Seminary


2. Christianity and World Religions: An Introduction to the World’s Major Faiths by Derek Cooper

About

Derek Cooper takes us on a two-part tour of the world’s most influential religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.

The first part discusses the essentials of each faith by looking at each faith’s creation story, historical origin, beliefs, religious writings, and worship practices, and adds Christian reflections about it.

The second surveys how biblical authors and important Christians in church history have responded to different religions. An appendix includes some helpful primary and secondary books relating to this theme.

Due to the increasingly global culture in which we live, it is important for Christians to know something about the major world religions so that we can speak confidently about our faith—there is no place in our interactions for fear. On the contrary, by learning about other religions we are able to learn more about God and Christianity, and how we can be more faithful to Christ.

Endorsements

Christianity and World Religions is a special book. . . . It is an easy read, not because the material is easy, but because of the author’s engaging, clear, and concise style. Any Christian who reads the newspaper on a regular basis will want to read this book in order to relate to current events.”

 —Paul D. Kooistra, Coordinator, Mission to the World, PCA

“This text functions very well as a handbook of religions and Christian responses or as an introductory textbook in a Christian-oriented class on world religions.”

—Dennis Okholm, Professor of Theology, Azusa Pacific University

“Peppering it with engaging personal anecdotes and supplementing it with helpful charts, tables, and sidebars throughout, Cooper has authored a truly helpful book.”

—Michael Lodahl, Professor of Theology and World Religions, Point Loma Nazarene University


3. Revolutions in Worldview: Understanding the Flow of Western Thought edited by W. Andrew Hoffecker

About

Revolutions in Worldview: Understanding the Flow of Western Thought traces the historical development of the Western mind through ten eras. It explores the fundamental ideas that revolutionized the way in which people thought and acted from the ancient Greeks and the biblical writers through the Medieval, Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, Modern, and Postmodern periods.

Endorsements

“Learned and lucid, this multiauthor survey of Western thought about God and the world from the Greeks and Hebrews to the exotically furnished vagaries of our own time will be a boon to serious students. It is a major achievement.”

—J. I. Packer, professor of theology, Regent College

“Written from a standpoint that emphasizes the majesty and lordship of God, and his sovereignty in his redemptive purposes, these chapters provide us with knowledge and perspective crucial for an integrated understanding of history and philosophy, and for current cultural analysis and engagement.”

—Ligon Duncan, senior minister, First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, MS

“Like its predecessor, Building a Christian World View, the authors of this well-written volume recognize the immense intellectual and practical importance of the concept of worldview itself and its inescapable human significance. . . . I hope, as the editor does, that it will be used as a formidable text in capstone courses for undergraduates regardless of discipline. I also believe it will help cast a new vision for graduate and seminary education.”

—David K. Naugle, professor of philosophy, Dallas Baptist University and author of Worldview: The History of a Concept


4. First John Reader: Intermediate Greek Reading Notes and Grammar by S.M. Baugh

About

An inductive introduction to intermediate Greek syntax, this reader enables students to apply the rudiments of Greek grammar to the actual interpretation of 1 John. The author of the innovative A New Testament Greek Primer, S. M. Baugh provides here a bridge between the study of Greek forms and the intelligent use of reference grammars.

This reader features:

  • relevant reading notes on the text of 1 John
  • useful vocabulary lists
  • helpful review of lessons from A New Testament Greek Primer
  • cross reference to other grammars: Machen, Mounce, Wenham, and Black

A First John Reader is ideal for intermediate students of Greek or those who want to review their knowledge of Greek with assistance in translation and interpretation.


5. A New Testament Greek Primer by S.M. Baugh

About

Higher quality, increased accuracy, and cleaner text now join the clarity, organization, and exercises you already trust to get you started with New Testament Greek.

This revised edition of Baugh’s introductory Greek grammar brings greater accuracy to the content of the previous editions, building on their success with classes, self-study groups, and individuals around the world. Baugh continues to emphasize both clarity and brevity by focusing on essentials for the introduction and beginning mastery of New Testament Greek. The text includes:

  • a clear distinction between essentials and nonessentials
  • concentration on mastering specific “sub-skills”
  • helpful memorization aids, such as vocabulary grouping
  • creative exercises drawn directly from the New Testament
  • focus on forms that occur often in the New Testament

A New Testament Greek Primer also has appendices on paradigms, a glossary of terms, a subject index, and an answer key for all exercises, making it particularly beneficial for student learning. With grammar, exercises, and an answer key in one convenient volume, now with revised text, this complete introduction is well suited both for Greek classes and for self-study or review.

Endorsements

“Highly recommended to teachers who are considering new textbooks and to students seeking a text for independent or supplementary study. Furthermore, it may be one of the best resources available to the seminary graduate who needs an efficient and effective reintroduction to New Testament Greek.”

—Clarence deWitt Agan III


6. Introduction to Hebrew: A Guide for Learning and Using Biblical Hebrew by William Fullilove

If you’re learning Hebrew, why not enjoy it?

Sadly, most students of biblical Hebrew quit their studies at the most crucial moment—the transition from language basics to biblical exegesis. But you can flourish early on and progress further if you learn from the outset to read andexplain biblical texts effectively.

In this comprehensive introductory textbook, Professor William Fullilove covers the basics of biblical Hebrew morphology and syntax while developing skills in the beginner that are typically reserved for more advanced students. Hebrew study becomes rapidly rewarding as you start to

  • appreciate nuances of God’s Word that you would not be able to see in translation;
  • understand how to appropriately use the best tools and secondary resources to aid in exegesis; and
  • learn how to use your Hebrew knowledge to enrich your own understanding, research, and teaching.

Your studies are valuable. Stay engaged as you learn how to handle God’s Word with depth, confidence, and robust exegesis.

Endorsements

“This is the best teaching grammar of biblical Hebrew available today. It has no rival. . . . What sets this grammar apart is its exegetical focus, showing at every turn the relevance of the language for biblical interpretation. This is the ideal textbook for students in colleges and seminaries who are preparing for Christian ministry.”

Scott C. Jones, Professor of Biblical Studies, Covenant College

“Here’s the book I wish I had been given, and from which I wish I had been instructed, when I was a student of Hebrew.”

Timothy Keller, Founding Pastor, Redeemer Presbyterian Church

“Fullilove has found ways to make the language so accessible and yet filled with such accuracy that many who thought Hebrew was beyond their reach will find it readily and comfortably right at hand.”

Walter C. Kaiser Jr., President Emeritus, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary


7. Basic Greek and Exegesis by Richard B. Ramsay

About

Richard B. Ramsay, a gifted communicator and educator, simplifies the challenge of learning Greek and reaping the rewards of studying the New Testament in its original language. He clearly introduces:

  • the purpose and steps of biblical exegesis
  • the basic vocabulary of the Greek New Testament
  • grammatical forms and their functions
  • essential linguistic tools, including Internet resources and software, for doing exegesis

Students will apply what they learn as they progress through this manual and develop an exegetical report on a passage of their choosing. In the end, readers will be able to translate basic Greek and have the confidence to do exegetical study in the preparation of Bible studies or sermons.

Exercises and an answer key are included.


 

 

BOOK HIGHLIGHT — Antinomianism: Reformed Theology’s Unwelcome Guest? by Mark Jones

Antinomianism: Reformed Theology’s Unwelcome Guest? by Mark Jones

$17.99 | 192 pages | SAMPLE CHAPTER | Mobi: $9.99 | ePub: $9.99

About

an·ti·no·mi·an (noun) — One who holds that under the gospel dispensation of grace the moral law is of no use or obligation because faith alone is necessary to salvation. —Merriam-Webster’s dictionary

Hotly debated since the sixteenth century in the Reformed theological tradition, and still a burning issue today, antinomianism has a long and complicated story.

This book is the first to examine antinomianism from a historical, exegetical, and systematic perspective. More than that, in it Mark Jones offers a key—a robust Reformed Christology with a strong emphasis on the Holy Spirit—and chapter by chapter uses it to unlock nine questions raised by the debates.

Endorsements

“The problem of antinomianism is a hardy perennial for the church. A mischievous movement is afoot at the moment—its soaring rhetoric about grace is matched by an equally casual presumption on grace. Mark Jones’s book is thus to be welcomed: it is biblically grounded, historically sensitive, and above all timely.”

—Carl R. Trueman, Paul Woolley Professor of Church History, Westminster Theological Seminary

“We are living in a deeply encouraging day when the sovereignty of God’s grace is being rediscovered far and wide. But as has happened in the past, the error of antinomianism has made its appearance. This new work by Mark Jones is rich in scriptural argument, illustrations from church history, and vigorous application.”

—Michael A. G. Haykin, Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

The Author

Mark Jones

Mark Jones (PhD, Leiden University) is senior minister at Faith Vancouver Presbyterian Church (PCA) and research associate at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa. He has written and edited several books and most recently coauthored A Puritan Theology:Doctrine for Life.

 

 

 

Excerpt taken from Streams of Mercy: Prayers of Confession and Celebration


Here is an excerpt taken from Streams of Mercy: Prayers of Confession and Celebration by Barbara R. Duguid and edited by Iain M. Duguid.

Streams


A SHELTER IN THE STORM

Streams of Mercy_star CALL TO CONFESSION: PSALM 46:1–3

God is our refuge and strength,

a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,

though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

though its waters roar and foam,

though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Streams of Mercy_star PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Infinitely wise God,

Your wisdom is unsearchable and infinite; your arm is powerful and mighty; your will is sovereign throughout this universe; your patience and love for fallen sinners like us defy our understanding. Lord, we can do nothing but sin, and each new day demonstrates that we are lovers of darkness, covenant breakers, and full of fear. We have received unfathomable mercy and abundant grace, yet we frequently trample on your beloved Son by cherishing anxious thoughts and living in fear of those around us. Instead of believing that you are a secure refuge in whom we can hide, we imagine a thousand scenarios of pain and loss. Instead of trusting that you are a present help who will defend us, we pursue our own revenge against those who have hurt us. We harbor bitterness toward you in our hearts over our problems, real and imagined, and we punish others in a variety of sinful ways for hurting us: by coldness and silence, by malice and slander, by rehearsing our grievances and nurturing our grudges. O God, forgive us for the overwhelming fear that dwells in our hearts and damages our relationship with you and with others.

Lord Jesus, without your righteousness we would be perpetually undone. We cannot imagine the beauty of your sinless heart when you prayed for the forgiveness of those who were killing you, but we thank you for it. We cannot fathom the depth of your trust in your heavenly Father, even as he turned his face away from you at the cross. Your blood washes us clean, and your obedience covers our endless record of disobedience. Thank you for the deep love and mercy that led you to pity us and to give your own life to save ours.

Holy Spirit, lead us to repentance and save us from despair. Give us grace to see our sin clearly and to come to you renouncing ourselves, hating our sin, and hoping fully in the forgiveness that flows even to us, the chiefs of sinners. Drive the joy of our salvation deep into our hearts, until trusting you feels like the only thing we can do. Give us hearts that seek reconciliation and peace with those who have hurt us, even when doing so is costly and painful to us. Help us to turn away from evil and to repay it with love and kindness; help us to love as we have been loved in Christ. Taking refuge in Jesus’ strong name, we pray: amen.

Streams of Mercy_star ASSURANCE OF PARDON: PSALM 46:4–11

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

the holy habitation of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;

God will help her when morning dawns.

The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;

he utters his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord of hosts is with us;

the God of Jacob is our fortress.


Come, behold the works of the Lord,

how he has brought desolations on the earth.

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;

he burns the chariots with fire.

“Be still, and know that I am God.

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!”

The Lord of hosts is with us;

the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Streams of Mercy_star HYMNS

“Abide with Me”

“A Mighty Fortress”