I love words. I love language and grammar, and the order and beauty they can convey. I love to read—to learn and to be transported to another time, place, or world. I love that Jesus my God is called—by the Gospel- and letter-writer John—Logos: THE WORD. I love it when Christian books are recommended and turn out to be as inspirational as they were described. Yet I know this is not true for everyone.... continue reading
What makes a great small-group experience? What brings spiritual growth to a Bible-study group’s members?
It takes a lot more than a good Bible study—one that enables everyone to engage with the text, encourages them to think about how it applies to their lives, and prompts them to pray with and for each other in response. But it never takes less than that.
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“I definitely think there must be something,” one of my friends said to me recently, as conversation drifted into discussion of God. “I just don’t know what it is.”
He’s not alone. Most people around us have a sense that there may be more out there than only what we can see or touch—not necessarily a God but something. This intuition is sometimes referred to as "somethingism." Somethingism is not a posture of commitment but simply of openness.... continue reading
Christians love to give kids Bibles! Which is wonderful. But the sad truth is, many of these Bibles end up just gathering dust.
There are many reasons why kids might not actually read the Bible they’ve been given. Here are just a few—and some thoughts on how to help!
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A pastor interrupted me during a seminar with a simple yet profound question: What even is the point of sports? Why do you care about it so much?
If you turn to most systematic theologies or books on cultural engagement, you might be left with the same question. Music, drama and literature are frequently acknowledged as legitimate areas of Christian reflection, but sports is often overlooked.... continue reading
We are so excited excited to announce the release of videos for kids telling the true story of Easter based on God’s Big Promises Bible Storybook, written by Carl Laferton and illustrated by Jennifer Davison (The Good Book Company, September 2023).... continue reading
A visitor hesitates near the door of your church building one Sunday. They make their way through the door but then pause. They look distracted, almost in a world of their own. You move toward them, but they seem unaware of your presence. You get a sense of agitation, as if they are on high alert, and you notice perspiration on their forehead. When you speak a word of greeting, they seem neither to see you nor hear you. Instead, they move away toward a notice board at the side of your church foyer, avoiding eye contact. ... continue reading
A couple of years ago, I wouldn't have called myself a Christian perfectionist, but I did consistently have a vague and underlying sense of perpetual guilt. I believed that the Lord was pleased with me because of my Savior, Jesus, but I also lived with a partly subconscious suspicion that he might also be disappointed with me.... continue reading
Story Trails are a great way to share the Gospel with unchurched members of your community as well as lots of fun as people get outside, get active, and get reading! Here at The Good Book Company we’ve got various engaging Easter story trails, all linked with one of our popular kids books. Here’s more information on what they are, why they’re great, and how to use them. ... continue reading
I worked with Tim as the editor on Life with Jesus—and I couldn’t help thinking that this sort of material would be perfect for the tweens and teens in my church youth group. It’s just the right balance between biblical (with a Bible study setting the agenda for each session) and topical (with a practical focus that feels real and relevant).... continue reading
