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It is impossible to love God and at the same time be dispassionate about the study of God. Deep devotion to Jesus and an all-consuming desire to see his glory fill the earth should fuel the passion of anyone who ventures to write about God and help illuminate other peoples understanding of God and his ways. Few themes call for as much of a blending of mind and heart as that of the Holy Spirit.

The global spread of Pentecostal Christianity, often in context of urban poverty, has attracted much attention. The movement highlights a hunger for the experience of God in our world and provides millions of poor believers with hope for social transformation. Yet spiritual experience needs a fully biblical understanding of the Holy Spirit with which its claims can be properly assessed.

Ivan Satyavrata provides an introduction to the Bibles teaching on vital issues and questions, many of which have been, and continue to be, a source of confusion and controversy amongst Christians. Combining scholarly enquiry with accessibility, his deep theological reflections and passion for unity will contribute to constructive dialogue and appeal to a wide readership.

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Role of the Holy Spirit in Protestant Systematic Theology

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A Comparative Study between Karl Barth, Jurgen Moltmann, and Wolfhart Pannenberg

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This volume is a meticulously researched text on pneumatology which puts the major pneumatological issues together without confining to the traditional way of dealing with the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Although pneumatology has been a neglected field in theological discussions of the past, there is a renewal of interest among theologians on pneumatology today. This renewal of interest has led to the formation of this work on the role of the Holy Spirit in the Protestant Systematic Theology. Through highlighting the role and significance of the Holy Spirit in the whole divine action, this volume contends that pneumatology is not a dull theological locus, but rather an essential theological disposition relevant for today. The detailed arguments found within challenge and inspire the contemporary pneumatological discussions as it relates to all the facets of theological reflection and action.

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Engaging Syncretism in the African Church through Philosophical Analysis of Worldviews

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With two-thirds of sub-Saharan Africa professing to be Christian it should be a concern to all Christians that the biblical worldview has had little impact on the shaping of contemporary African culture. In this book Jack Chalk analyses the belief systems of the worldviews that are based on Christianity and African Traditional Religion. The analysis, conclusion and recommendations are presented with the view to helping the church in Africa deal with syncretism and the effect it has on the beliefs and practices of its members.

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The Role of the Doctrine of Reconciliation in the Preaching of Bishop Festo Kivengere of Uganda between 1971-1988

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Missionary of Reconciliation: The Role of the Doctrine of Reconciliation in the Preaching of Festo Kivengere of Uganda, 19711988
Alfred Olwa (Sydney, Australia)

In the period 19711988, the Christian doctrine of reconciliation was central to Festo Kivengeres preaching in Uganda and beyond. This doctrine so gripped Kivengere that it shaped his attitude to life, to others, and even to his enemies. He exhorted his audiences to be reconciled with God and then with their fellow human beings, as part of Gods remedy for a broken world. In his preaching, Kivengere depicts Jesus as a missionary of reconciliation who brings a fresh and alternative life, characterized by the reconciling love and peace from God. He preached the Christian doctrine of reconciliation into a Uganda where Christians lived under the horrors of Amins rule and its aftermath. According to Kivengere, the world changes through the preaching of the reconciliation centered in Jesus Christ.

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In today's world, when Christians think about other religions, numerous questions and issues arise - and their convictions about Christ and about other religions can have a significant influence on their understanding of how God relates to people, and what their own conduct towards them should be.

From her wealth of inter-cultural and inter-faith experience, Ida Glaser believes that the most urgent questions for Christians focus on their own responsibilities and other peoples' welfare. Responding to Micah 6:8 - 'And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God' - Dr Glaser explores biblical perspectives on other faiths and their adherents, with clarity, sensitivity and challenging insights for all Christians.

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This work, carried out prior to the creation of The Republic of South Sudan, focuses on the Christian perspective of reconciliation and peace in South Sudan. In a country gripped in what was set to be, until recently, Africas longest running civil war the Sudanese state had been, on many occasions, inherently unjust, repressive, and extremely violent against sections of its own citizens resulting in long lasting conflict and war. This conflict stretches deep into the history and geography of the region.

This study investigates peoples views and trends to find out whether the end of hostilities would mark the end of interpersonal, group, tribal, and interethnic conflict created by the war. It asks, are people ready to forgive those who have wronged them during the war without demanding justice? What would constitute true peace in Sudan? Do the church and the government in Sudan each have a role in bringing sustainable peace?

Findings of the research show an overwhelming desire for reconciliation and peace but with very different ways of reaching it. It is however recognized that to constitute true peace in South Sudan there is need for equality and justice, observation of the law, democratic governance, complete transformation, equitable distribution of resources and services, and freedom of worship. For this to be achieved both the church and government must play critical roles.

Memories of the war are still fresh in peoples minds. The government must recognize the trauma people have suffered, deal with the roots of the conflict and address the crimes committed so that wounds inflicted can be healed and people can then live harmoniously. The church must teach people the biblical understanding of peace and reconciliation through repentance and forgiveness so that peace can have true meaning.

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The Vine Metaphor as a Test Case with Lessons from African Hospitality and Trinitarian Theology

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In this book the author contends that communal holiness is the central theme of the vine metaphor in John 15:1-17. Illumination of the Johannine vine metaphor is illustrated by drawing on background information on the vine and its metaphorical usage in the Ancient Near East, Old Testament, and Second Temple Period and to suggest understanding in light of the communal holiness of the covenant people of God. Comparing the themes of holiness and corporateness pertinent to the covenant the book also reflects the covenant with Israel in relation to Johns understanding of the people of God. The notion of covenant, which embraces reference to the people of God as vine/vineyard in the Old Testament and Second Temple Period, underlies Johns vine metaphor.

The book focuses research on ANE viticulture to determine the context(s) of when the vine was used to refer to Israel in a covenant relationship with God. In this historical context the Johannine vine metaphor receives fresh meaning and relevance for the people of God.

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A Study of Relational Leadership in Contemporary Chinese Churches

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Confucianism and its influence on culture in East Asia has profoundly impacted Chinese churches and the development of their leaders. As a cultural force it continues to affect the perceptions and practices of Chinese pastors and how they lead. This work seeks to build an indigenous approach to developing church leaders by understanding the theoretical, and the situational foundations, of relational leadership from both cultural and biblical perspectives. The research is further enriched through case studies and interviews observing the practices of leadership in contemporary Chinese churches.

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A Theological Examination of Symbolism in Ezekiel with Emphasis on the Shepherd Metaphor

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This book addresses one of the ever-aching problems of human society  failed leadership in secular and sacred domains. It points out, from Ezekiels use of symbolism and shepherd motif, what society stands to suffer and or lose under a bad human leadership structure and bad governance. This plays out in the books x-ray of the characteristics of sheep needing a shepherd. Dr. Biwul contends that Ezekiel used symbolic sign-acts to indict both Israels bad and imperfect human shepherds as well as the Babylonian exiles as being responsible for their plight for not upholding the norms of Deuteronomic theology. Particularly, he argues forcefully from Ezekiels shepherd motif that a major factor responsible for the exile of Israel as a covenant community is the massive failure of its bad and imperfect human shepherds who did not possess the requisite shepherding qualities inherent in Yahweh as chief shepherd of Israel. Biwul therefore draws particular attention to the reality of Ezekiels use of the recognition formula when Yahweh acts at last to restore his people. This is rooted in the theological-eschatological motif which would come to its full reality in the anticipated eschatological community when Yahweh would shepherd his people.

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A Personal Plea for Unity, Integrity and Faithfulness

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John Stotts masterly distillation of sixty years reflection on Christian discipleship ranges over the history of the church and its formative teachings, as well as the world-wide church today. He expounds the trinitarian character of the evangelical faith: the gracious initiative of God the Father in revealing himself to us, of Jesus Christ in redeeming us through the cross, and of the indwelling Holy Spirit in transforming us. This is why the three-fold emphasis of evangelical faith is upon the Word of God, the once-for-all nature of the work of Christ and the active, continuing work of the Spirit.

This edition of Evangelical Truth contains The Cape Town Commitment, a document produced by The Lausanne Movement faithfully reflecting the proceedings of The Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization.

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John R. W. Stott, Christopher J. H. Wright

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An Overview of its History, Theologians and Sources

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The Republic of Suriname, located in northern South America has a rich and diverse history going back several centuries. This has seen the introduction of Christianity and the establishment and creation of many church denominations. To date, major theological works have failed to provide correct, balanced and informative dialogue on the history of Christianity and its developments in Suriname.
In response to the lack of information available to the academic world this publication aims to provide a survey of the history, a summary of the works of theologians and a guide to reliable sources about Christianity in Suriname. Through overviewing the history of the major denominations in Suriname and focusing on some major issues surrounding Christianity the author delivers a unique single volume for both the general reader and a starting point for further research.

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Pope Francis has said, "How I would like a Church that is poor and for the poor!" How might your parish answer the Holy Fathers call more boldly? The Ministry of Peace and Justice is a practical guide meant to help faith communities deepen their commitment to bringing God's compassion to a wounded world. Intended for pastoral leaders and parishioners with a heart for those who are poor and vulnerable, this book includes creative suggestions for starting or expanding social efforts and contains six ready-to-use educational, interactive sessions for new or growing peace and justice committees. The Collegeville Ministry series provides practical, effective help for those serving the parish through various ministries. Brand-new volumes complement the already popular existing volumes that have been completely updated and expanded. The Collegeville Ministry series offers inexpensive, yet comprehensive, training on the various liturgical roles. Each booklet is prepared by a specialist in the field and provides down to earth suggestions for making ministry more meaningful for the ministers and those they serve.

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All church ministries are oriented toward fostering missionary discipleship. Youth ministry focuses this mission on young people. In this new book in the Collegeville Ministry series, Jeffrey Kaster explores leadership for youth ministry, Christian discipleship, conversion, the theological foundations for youth ministry, the importance of community and belonging, and vocational discernment. Kaster looks at the practice of vocational discernment and how it encourages youth ministry to continually help young people discern their gifts, connect them in service to meet the worlds deep needs, and foster Christian discipleship. Youth ministry at its best mobilizes the faith community to support young people as they learn to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Collegeville Ministry series provides practical, effective help for those serving the parish through various ministries. Brand-new volumes complement the already popular existing volumes that have been completely updated and expanded. The Collegeville Ministry series offers inexpensive, yet comprehensive, training on the various liturgical roles. Each booklet is prepared by a specialist in the field and provides down-to-earth suggestions for making ministry more meaningful for the ministers and those they serve.

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This commentary adopts a literary-rhetorical approach, viewing the letter as an instrument of persuasion designed to transform readers through a celebratory presentation of the Gospel. Reflecting upon the fate of Jews and Gentiles, Paul wins his audience to a vision of a God who always acts inclusively. The God who, in the person of Israel's Messiah (Jesus), has acted faithfully to include the Gentile peoples within the community of salvation, will not fail to see to the eventual inclusion of Israel as well. In the victory of grace displayed already in the risen humanity of Jesus, the original design of the Creator for human communities and for the world begins to come true.The interpretation of Paul's letter to Rome has accompanied and stimulated the path of Christian theology down to today. Romans touches upon virtually all main issues of Christian theology, as well as presenting a rewarding introduction to Paul. Byrne facilitates full access to Paul and his Gospel through the letter, allowing Christians today to hear his voice as intelligibly and powerfully as it has spoken to past generations.

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Offering solace and encouragement to those who grieve is a critical aspect of the churchs ministry of mercy and love. To find your place within grief ministry and plan this important ministry from first response to spiritual guidance, there is no better mentor than Fr. Terence Curley. In this guide, Fr.  Curley pays attention to all of the factors contributing to a grief minister's multifaceted work, including parish support and his or her own loss history. Symptoms of loss, trust, and hints for conversations with the grieving are topics touched by this detailed and sensitive guide. This book, a fully revised edition of Fr. Curleys earlier book The Ministry of Consolers, is a necessary tool for parishes, hospices, educational institutions, and all those attending to the bereaved.

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The Deacon's Ministry of Charity and Justice

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The deacon's exercise of charity and justice extends the loving hand of God's constant love and mercy to all who are in need. The Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education has called this work the ministry most characteristic of the deacon."   In The Deacons Ministry of Charity and Justice, Deacon William Ditewig focuses on this ministry as a constitutive element of the nature of the Church itselfalways flowing from the ministries of Word and Sacrament and leading back to them, never apart from them. Along with a rich exploration of the scriptural, historical, and theological foundation of the deacon's practice of charity and justice, Deacon Ditewigone of today's foremost experts on the permanent diaconatedevelops specific and concrete principles for exercising these ministries faithfully, authentically, and effectively. The Deacons Ministry series explores the three fundamental diaconal ministries identified in the teaching of Vatican II: those of the liturgy, of the word, and of charity to the people of God (Lumen Gentium 29). This series, written by three highly regarded permanent deacons, offers a rich combination of theology, spirituality, and practical and effective guidance. Deacons and those in diaconal formation, their families, the bishops and priests they work with, and the people they serve will welcome it.

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Why People Care So Much about the Catholic Liturgy

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When changes happen to the Catholic Mass, opinions are strong and diverse. Everyone feels in some way that the Mass is theirs. It is. Or is it? Whose Mass is it? And what should people do to claim it? Whether or not adult Catholics attend Mass regularly, they strongly bond with it. Within a single generation, English-speaking Catholics experienced the Second Vatican Councils authorization for the first overhaul of the liturgy in four hundred years, and then, in 2011, they prepared for and implemented a revised vernacular translation. Each of these two events awakened strong feelings as people gradually became aware that someone elses decision was going to affect the cornerstone of their spiritual life. In Whose Mass Is It? Paul Turner examines the impact of the Mass, the connections it makes, and its purpose in the lives of believers.

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Regarded as the most personal of Paul's weighty and strong" (10:10) letters, the Second Letter to the Corinthians continues to contribute toward the *building up - (13:10) of its readers.  The Second Letter to the Corinthians is an implicit yet undeniable plea that Paul addresses to the Christians of Corinth and is impressive above all for its exposition of the apostle's identity. In this letter Paul more than once fiercely counters the attacks of his opponents. He extensively describes both the quality and circumstances of his apostolic existence: the sufferings he endures, the opposition he encounters, and his continual care for the Churches. Second Corinthians is, therefore, highly significant theologically as well as autobiographically.  Not an easy letter to follow, the emotional language used in 2 Corinthians, the question of the integrity of 2 Corinthians as a letter, and inadequate information about the concrete situation at Corinth and the identity of Paul's opponents make following the flow of Paul's argument difficult at times. Yet 2 Corinthians is an especially important document because of Paul's ongoing reflection on his ministry. It is both profound in its content and style for its original audience as well as for today's readers.

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The Johannine Epistles are today read as an important part of the Johannine literature. Yet the meaning of the text is often unclear. Part of the problem arises because, although 1 John is called an Epistle, it lacks the formal marks of an Epistle. In 1, 2, and 3 John, John Painter illuminates the relationship 1, 2, and 3 John have to each other and to the Gospel.Painter explains the historical context of the Johannine Epistles using a socio-rhetorical approach. The writings are shown to reflect a situation of conflict and schism within the Johannine community; they seek to persuade the readers of the truth of the writer's message. In this truth, the readers are encouraged to abide if they would have the assurance of eternal life.Painter also examines the inseparable connection between belief and ethical life in active love for one another. Through the socio-rhetorical approach Painter brings to light the continuing relevance of these writings.1, 2, and 3 John is divided into two parts. Chapters under 1 John are "Introduction to the Exegesis of 1 John," "Outline of 1 John," "First Presentation of the Two Tests (1:6-2:27)," "Excursus: Sin and Sinlessness," "Excursus: Love of the Brother/Sister: of One Another," "Excursus: The Antichrist," "Second Presentation of the Two Tests (2:28-4:6)," "Third Presentation of the Two Tests (4:7-5:12)," "Conclusion (5:13-21), and " Excursus: 'A Sin Unto Death.'"Chapters under 2 and 3 John are "2 John," "Introduction to the Exegesis of 2 John," "Outline of 2 John," "Prescripti 2 John 1-3," "Body of the Letter (4-11)," "Notice of Intention to Visit (12)," and "Final Greetings (13)," "3 John," "Introduction to the Exegesis of 3 John," "Outline of 3 John," "Prescript: 3 John 1-2," "Body of Letter (3-12)," and "Final Greetings (13-15)."John Painter is the Foundation Professor of Theology at Charles Sturt University in Canberra, Australia.

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In The Gospel of Mark Fathers Donahue and Harrington use an approach that can be expressed by two terms currently used in literary criticism: intratextuality and intertextuality. This intratextual and intertextual reading of Mark's Gospel helps us to appreciate the literary character, its setting in life, and its distinctive approaches to the Old Testament, Jesus, and early Christian theology.  "Intratextuality" means we read Mark as Mark and by Mark. Such a reading expresses interest in the final form of the Gospel (not its source or literary history) and in its words and images, literary devices, literary forms, structures, characterization, and plot. Reading Mark by Mark gives particular attention to the distinctive vocabulary and themes that run throughout the Gospel and serve to hold it together as a unified literary production.  "Intertextuality" comprises the relation between texts and a textual tradition, and also referring to contextual materials not usually classified as texts (e.g., archaeological data). "Intertextuality" is used to note the links of the text of Mark's Gospel to other texts (especially the Old Testament) and to the life of the Markan community and of the Christian community today.