Tuesday, February 26, 2013

New Releases

One Perfect Life
John MacArther
Thomas Nelson, March 2013
Do you long to know Jesus better and draw closer to His heart? What better way than to examine his life and teaching? In One Perfect Life, pastor and teacher John MacArthur draws from the richness of the Gospel narratives to paint a complete portrait of the Savior's life. Using the Gospel of Matthew as a base MacArthur weaves together the four narratives of Jesus' life to show how they work in harmony with one another. Supported with extensive study notes, and giving a verse-by-verse explanation of every Scriptural reference to Christ, from Genesis to Revelation, One Perfect Life will deepen your confidence in the trustworthiness of the Bible, and draw you into more meaningful worship. Discover the glory of our Savior who was, and is, and is to come.

Pursuing Justice
Ken Wytsma
Thomas Nelson, February 2013
The ONLY way to find abundant life and happiness is to give your life away. If God designed us to experience true happiness and abundant life, why do so many Christians feel dissatisfied and purposeless?  We try to make our lives better by chasing our own dreams, but that only makes the problem worse.  Instead, the path to a just life that’s satisfying and permeated with meaning leads us alongside the orphan, the widow, and the powerless.  Using clear evangelical theology and compelling narratives drawn from two decades of global ministry and travel, Ken Wytsma, the founder of The Justice Conference, shows God’s unchanging love for all His children.  On the way, the author calls us back to a proper understanding of biblical justice, a redeeming glimpse into the true meaning of righteousness and the remarkable connection between our own joy, the joy of others, and the wondrous Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pursuing Justice shows that God isn’t primarily concerned with personal piety but about empowering His children to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with their creator.  The message is as hopeful as it is fresh: when you discover anew the meaning of the Gospel and give your life away, you will find it…and it will be the best life you can imagine.

Beyond Heaven's Door
Max Lucado
Thomas Nelson, February 2013
Life without end? Boundless space? The cessation of suffering? Our final destiny may spark questions, but Lucado says there will be nothing to fear on the day we step into eternity! Join America's best-loved inspirational author for a glimpse of the joy that awaits us in the "many mansions" of God. Content adapted from When Christ Comes. 128 pages, hardcover from Nelson.

Gods at War
Kyle Idleman
Zondervan, February 2013
There may be no wooden or golden idols in your home, such as the ancient Israelites struggled with, but chances are, there are significant idols in your heart. These idols can look like normal, everyday concerns about security, financial stability, desire for attention or affection, but can easily become the ugly reality of anxiety, greed, and seeking approval of man, rather than God. In Gods at War, Kyle Idleman addresses the issue of idolatry in the lives of believers by asking insightful questions that will help you determine which false gods are striving to sit on the throne of your heart. By sharing true and powerful testimonies of those who have struggled with the idols of money, sex, success, food and romance, Idleman clears away the cultural baggage of the 21st century to expose these gods for what they are--rivals to our unhindered devotion to Christ. Discover the freedom that awaits you when you allow the true God to reside unchallenged in your heart and life.

C.S. Lewis: A Life
Alister McGrath
Tyndale, February 2013
Known as an atheist-turned-Christian thinker, prolific writer, and creator of the beloved Narnia series, C.S. Lewis remains as influential today as he was 50 years ago. But who was he really? After examining recently published Lewis correspondence, McGrath offers a fresh portrait of a creative genius---and challenges previously held beliefs about the timing of Lewis's conversion. 350 pages, hardcover from Tyndale.

Fred 2.0
Mark Sanborn
Tyndale, January 2013
Nine years ago, bestselling author and business consultant Mark Sanborn introduced the world to Fred, his postman, who delivered extraordinary service in simple but remarkable ways. Fred’s story inspired millions. Companies—even, cities—were inspired to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary each day. Today, with stiff competition from the networked global economy, delivering extraordinary results is more important than ever. With Fred 2.0, Mark not only revisits the original Fred to gain new insights, but also equips all of us with new strategies to achieve more. You’ll not only be inspired by Fred 2.0, you’ll also have the tools and strategies to aim higher and achieve the extraordinary.

Sent
Hilary Alan
WaterBrook Press, February 2013
 Living the American dream, Hilary and Curt Alan were high-profile professionals living with their children in an affluent neighborhood. But everything changed when they answered God's call to move to a Muslim province in Southeast Asia to help people rebuild after a devastating tsunami. Join them as they grapple with hard choices---and experience overwhelming joy. 272 pages, softcover from Waterbrook.

I Still Believe CD
Jeremy Camp
Tyndale, January 2013
How should we deal with life's sorrows? When a loved one dies, where can we find comfort? With unflinching candor, Camp recounts his improverished childhood, rebellious teenage years, spiritual awakening, the tragic loss of his wife, Melissa, and his second chance at love. His fiery journey refined his faith---and will give you reason to hope in God. 220 pages, softcover from Tyndale.

Zion Deluxe Edition CD
Hillsong United
Sparrow Records, February 2013
Offering a fresh vision for what they are called to do, Hillsong United takes steps forward sonically---while retaining the hallmarks of their worship songs. Includes "Relentless"; "Up in Arms"; "Scandal of Grace"; "Oceans"; "Stay and Wait"; "Mercy, Mercy"; "Love Is War"; "Nothing Like Your Love"; "Heartbeats"; "A Million Suns"; "Tapestry"; "King of Heaven"; and the title track. Deluxe edition includes two additional songs, three remixes, and the "Welcome Zion" music video.

Wow Gospel 2013 DVD
Various Artists
EMI, January 2013
You've got a front-row seat to electrifying performances of best-of-the-best gospel songs for 2013! Clap your hands and sing along to "Awesome" (Pastor Charles Jenkins); "Good & Bad" (J. Moss); "I Smile" (Kirk Franklin); "Go Get It" (Mary Mary); "Hold On" (James Fortune with Monica & Fred Hammond); "Turning Around for Me" (VaShawn Mitchell); "After This" (Youthful Praise); and more.

Dueling with the Three Musketeers (Enchanted Attic Series)
L.L. Samson
Zondervan, January 2013
When Madrigal Pierce's greedy brother shows up, he is prepared to do everything he can to sell the school. Luckily, Ophelia has been reading The Three Musketeers, and Linus, Ophelia, and Walter think that D'Artagnan can save the school. But when their plan goes awry and the evil Lady DeWinter appears instead, can these Three Musketeers save the day, and the school?

I Love You No Matter What
J. Rutland
Thomas Nelson, February 2013
Let your little ones know that you will always be there for them, no matter what, with this heartfelt story. Paralleling Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, Prince Chirpio likes growing up as royalty, but his selfishness and thirst for adventure prompts him to leave the kingdom and fly off to where he can make his own rules. When he realizes that adventures can be very lonely, he wonders if his father still loves him and if he will accept him back if he went home. Luckily, Chirpio discovers that his father will always love him---no matter what. Recommended for ages 4-7.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

New Releases

The Code of the Holy Spirit
Perry Stone
Charisma House, March 2013
It’s time to rethink what you know about the Holy Spirit.
When a rabbi in Jerusalem told Perry Stone that, according to Jewish tradition, speaking in tongues was something the high priest did in the holy of holies, his interest was piqued, and his heart set out on a journey to discover lesser-known details and insights concerning the Holy Spirit.
In The Code of the Holy Spirit Stone shares his discoveries, providing a unique view of the Holy Spirit through the lens of Old Testament writings and Jewish tradition. In addition to revealing the Holy Spirit’s presence throughout the Old Testament— including clues revealed in the Hebrew feasts about the Day of Pentecost—Stone answers questions such as:
·        What is the anointing?
·        Why is the Spirit likened to a dove?
·        Is the Holy Spirit feminine or masculine?
·        How do you offend the Holy Spirit?
·        How do you know if someone is truly operating in a gift of the Spirit?
 Whether you’ve been taught a doctrine, embarked on your own study of Scripture, observed others operating under the Holy Spirit’s power, or had a personal life-changing experience, this insightful book will give you a deeper understanding of this member of the Godhead than you’ve ever had before.
 
AfterLife
Hank Hanegraaff
Worthy Publishing, February 2013
 If there was ever a need-to-know book, AfterLife is it. On his daily call-in radio show, the most common questions Hanegraaff fields are about the hereafter.For instance, millions are voraciously reading about the near-death experiences of young children. Consumers are desperate for knowledge and reassurance about what comes after life on this earth. Hank Hanegraaff, one of the most remarkable theological minds of the 21st century, explains the marvelous way this physical life connects our past to our eternal future. AfterLife gives readers a clear and concrete understanding about what happens after death to us and to those we love.
 
Seven Desires
Mark & Debbie Laaser
Zondervan, February 2013
This new take on relationships changes everything! By examining the seven desires we all share, Mark and Debra Laaser illustrate how men and women are actually more alike than different. Do you long for ways to Tune in more closely to your children? Connect on a deeper level with your spouse? Strengthen friendships? Reach a fuller relationship with God? The Laasers look past what separates us to examine what connects us. Instead of focusing on how to sidestep or compensate for perceived differences, they dig deeper, to the core of our souls, to examine how the basic needs of all people make us more alike than different. The Seven Desires of Every Heart explores the common desires God has given us ---to be heard, affirmed, blessed, safe, touched, chosen, and included. Using stories, biblical references, and sound psychological principles, the Laasers explain each desire and show us how we seek it and what it feels like to have it truly fulfilled. You will learn healthy ways to embody these desires in your relationships and be given the tools you need to start repairing and rebuilding relationships and developing new skills for creating emotional and spiritual intimacy. 

True Purity
Hayley & Michael DiMarco
Revell, February 2013
What comes to mind when you think of the word "purity"? Abstinence from sex? A list of don'ts? Super-spiritual behavior? The DiMarcos say it goes much deeper! Showing that purity starts in the heart and involves every thought, action, and desire, they help teens make wise choices---and assure them that God's grace can redeem lost virtue. 192 pages, softcover from Revell.
 
Your Great Name CD
Paul Wilbur
Integrity Music, February 2013
Messianic worship leader Paul Wilbur returns with his first studio album in over 20 years! Your Great Name carries on his trademark Messianic worship style while adding fresh contemporary elements to the mix, including brand new songs "Who Is Like You," "Song Of the Beautiful," and "Glory Come Down" alongside a new version of "Great I Am," and a majestic recording of title track "Your Great Name," originally by Natalie Grant.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

New Releases

Follow Me: A Call to Die. A Call to Live.
David Platt
Tyndale, February 2013
What did Jesus really mean when He said, “Follow me?” Is it possible for people to say they believe in Jesus but not truly be born again? Is it possible for people to claim they have accepted Christ into their hearts yet not actually be Christians? Not only is it possible, but according to Pastor David Platt, it’s also highly probable. The author of the bestselling book Radical is convinced that many people in our churches today are misled as to what it truly means to be a follower of Christ. Western culture has drained the lifeblood out of Christianity and replaced it with a watered-down version of the gospel that is so palatable it isn’t even real anymore. “Follow me,” Jesus calls. Two simple words that change everything. You will never be bored. You will always have purpose. You will never lack joy. But it will cost you. This call is not an invitation to pray a prayer. It is a summons to lose your life.  
a call to die. a call to live. Have you answered that call?

The Full Armor of God
Larry Richards
Baker Publishing Group, February 2013
Evangelical-Friendly Approach to Spiritual Warfare. Respected scholar and speaker Larry Richards offers a balanced, evangelical-friendly approach to spiritual warfare based on the book of Ephesians. Unique among books on warfare and deliverance, this easy-to-follow handbook draws riches from the Bible, while also offering tactical guidance for conquering the demons of fear and doubt that assail believers. Framing his teaching on Paul's armor of God passage in Ephesians 6, Richards uncovers strategies of Satan and analyzes the armor piece by piece to reveal how God provides protection from every attack of the enemy. Hands-on exercises at the end of each section, plus in-depth, analytical appendixes, help readers identify and stand against powers of evil--and experience true freedom. 

The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus
Adam Hamilton
Abingdon Press, December 2012
Travel with Adam Hamilton as he retraces the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Once again, Hamilton approaches his subject matter with thoughtfulness and wisdom, just as he did with Jesus’ crucifixion in 24 Hours That Changed the World and with Jesus’ birth in The Journey. Read The Way on your own or, for a more in-depth study, enjoy it with a small group or part of a 40-day church-wide emphasis during Lent and Easter or anytime of the year. Using historical information, archaeological data, and stories of the faith, Hamilton follows in the footsteps of Jesus from his baptism to the temptations to the heart of his ministry, including the people he loved, the parables he taught, the enemies he made, and the healing he brought. This 40-day focus will help you and your group grow deeper in their faith, learn more about the life of Christ, spend time daily reading and reflecting upon the Scriptures, and invite families, through the children’s and youth studies, to grow together in their faith. Additional resources include a DVD, devotional, youth and children editions, and a worship download to help with sermon planning.

J.R.R. Tolkien: The Making of a Legend
Colin Duriez
Lion Hudson, November 2012
Tolkien's fantasy world has captured the hearts of generations of readers. But who was the man who created Middle-Earth and its inhabitants? In this engaging portrait, Duriez introduces you to an orphan who was forbidden to communicate with the woman he loved, worked as a brilliant scholar, and became one of the world's best-loved authors. 192 pages, softcover from Lion.

Paper Dream DVD
Bridgestone Multimedia, January 2013
For as long as she can remember Christy Davis has wanted to be a mom, but things haven't worked out the way she imagined them. When hopes of getting pregnant fall through, she and her husband Matt turn to adoption, but will that be enough to fill her longing for a child? Do unfulfilled dreams define who we are, or is God enough to give us fulfillment?   


Trade of Innocents DVD
Monterey Video, December 2012
In the back streets of a tourist town in present-day Southeast Asia, we find a filthy cinder block room; a bed with soiled sheets; a little girl waits for the next man to use her. Alex, a human trafficking investigator plays the role of her next customer as he negotiates with the pimp for the use of the child.
Claire, Alex's wife, is caught up in the flow of her new life in Southeast Asia and her role as a volunteer in an aftercare shelter for rescued girls. She, and Alex both still are dealing with their grief of losing a child years earlier. As both of them struggle in their own way to overcome the pain of their past and realities of child exploitation where they now live and work, they find themselves being pulled together into the lives of local neighborhood girls, whose freedom and dignity are threatened. Parallel story lines intertwine and twists unfold against the backdrop of the dangerous human trafficking world, in a story of struggle, life, hope and redemption in the Trade of Innocents. Approx. 91 minutes.

Abel's Field DVD
Sony Pictures Entertainment, January 2013
Seventeen-year-old Seth carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. Not only is he bullied by his football teammates at school, but since his father abandoned the family, he's under enormous pressure to support his little sisters. Will an after-school job and an unlikely friendship with the school groundskeeper provide the hope he needs? Rated PG. Approx. 104 minutes.

 The Potential Inside DVD
Echolight, January 2013
Pro cyclist Chris Carmik is no stranger to victory, and he has the trophies and fame to prove it. He won't settle for anything but being the best, even if chasing personal glory means neglecting his duty to lead as a husband and father. With his focus on his career instead of his family and faith, Chris's only worry is his next win - until he's suddenly forced to face the most profound of losses. When an unexpected tragedy takes the life of his young daughter, Chris finds his own life changed in an instant. After years of climbing rugged trails, he hits rock bottom. Now, estranged from his grieving wife and consumed with guilt, Chris struggles beneath the weight of his selfish past. But when he surrenders everything to Christ and begins living for others, Chris finds peace where once there was only pain - and resolves to rebuild his life and serve his
family as God intended.

Meant To Be DVD
Pure Flix Entertainment, January 2013
Awarded the Dove Foundations Family Seal of Approval and recommended for ages 12+, Meant To Be is about a 20-year old named Nathan (Bradley Dorsey) who loses his career & his girlfriend and begins to question his purpose in life. Compounding his struggle, he grew up in a foster home & never met his birth mother. Nathan sets out to find his mother & come to terms with her rejection. His journey begins by flying to the city where he was born & upon his arrival, checks into a hotel & meets Mave (Della Reese) the hotel's housekeeper. Encouraged by her wisdom & the help of hotel guest (Kristen Renton) he finds his mothers address, Linda Dixon (Erika Eleniak). Linda agonizes over the decision she made with Nathan 20 years ago. In an effort to admonish the guilt of giving up her son, Linda is caught up in the life of a teenage mother, Tori (Erin Sossoman) who is conflicted by the decision to abort her baby. When Nathan gathers the courage to meet his mother, he uncovers a terrible secret that totally redefines what was meant to be for his life.

Reckless CD
Jeremy Camp
Bec Records, February 2013
As heartfelt and passionate as ever, Jeremy Camp is making waves with this new album. Choosing to be "reckless," he fearlessly worships God with everything he has. Includes "The Way You Love Me," "Free," "Paradise," "We Must Remember," "Shine," "Come Alive," "My God," "We Need," "Reign in Me," "Without You," and the radio hit title track.

Run CD
Sanctus Real
Sparrow Records, February 2013
The sixth album release from Sanctus Real builds on the success of their last album, Pieces Of A Real Heart, with another thought-provoking collection of polished rock and alt-contemporary originals. Run includes the hit radio single "Promises" plus "We Will Never Give Up," "One of Those Things," "Picture of Grace," and more.

Only a Mountain CD
Jason Castro
Curb Records, January 2013
On his third full-length release, the dreadlocked Texan troubador charmingly blends his on-your-sleeve faith with contagious melodies and uplifting, encouraging lyricism. Only A Mountain features the hit single title track plus "Starting Line," "Same Kind of Broken" (ft. Moriah Peters), and more.

A Messenger
Colton Dixon
Sparrow Records, January 2013
Eleventh season American Idol contestant Colton Dixon offers his full length debut for Sparrow Records. This twelve song set spotlights Colton's passionate vocals and plainspoken faith over a crisp modern rock and alt-pop soundscape. Features the hit singles "You Are" and "Never Gone" plus "Rise," "Where My Heart Goes," "This Is Who I Am," and others.

Capital Kings CD
Capital Kings
Gotee Records, January 2013
Following an electrifying set of remixes and an eye-opening EP, Capital Kings offer their first full-length recording, showcasing ten original tracks deftly melding styles across the dance and electronic music spectrum. The duo's self-titled debut features guest appearances from TobyMac, Royal Tailor, Britt Nicole, and Soul Glow of Family Force 5.

God Gave Us Easter
Lisa Tawn Bergren
WaterBrook Press, January 2013
Curious Little Cub loved learning about Christmas. Now she's wondering about Easter---and peppering Papa polar bear with questions. Why do we celebrate Easter? What happened on that day? What does it mean for our faith? With simple words and easy-to-understand biblical insights, Papa explains the meaning of Jesus' death and resurrection. Ages 3 to 8. 40 pages, hardcover from Waterbrook.

Bible Stories That End with a Hug!
Stephen Elkins
Tyndale, December 2012
It's like getting a hug from God! Generating warmth, love, and a feeling of acceptance, Elkins's simple retellings of 75 Bible stories from the NLT complemented by Simon Taylor-Kielty's whimsical illustrations will teach your 2- to 5-year-olds about Scripture and God's unconditional love. Includes memory verses, daily applications, and a special "Hug Time." 160 pages, padded hardcover from Tyndale.

VeggieTales Bible Heroes Triple Feature DVD
Big Idea Productions
Laugh, sing, and learn about Bible heroes with the entire produce gang! This hilarious trio of VeggieTales stories on one DVD features Josh & the Big Wall; Esther: The Girl Who Became Queen; and Moe & the Big Exit, plus a bonus 3" Larry action figure. A great anytime gift for your 3- to 7-year-olds. Approx. 100 minutes.