Lifelong Love Affair: How to Have a Passionate and Deeply Rewarding Marriage by Jimmy Evans with Frank Martin (Baker)

Jimmy Evans relies on years of ministry to married couples, as well as his own experience in marriage, to pass along valuable lessons that can help couples strengthen and improve their marriages. Couples who have been married at least five years would benefit most from this book, as it gives numerous examples of situations and challenges that often develop well beyond the honeymoon phase of the marriage.

A theme throughout the book is the idea that it is never too late to improve your marriage. Along with the strong scriptural support for his ideas and suggestions, the book is filled with practical advice all couples can consider adopting for their marriage relationship. A few good examples include an annual "vision retreat" to help communication and intimacy flourish and surrounding yourselves with other couples who share the same commitment to lifelong and fulfilling marriages.

Couples who would like to strengthen their relationship with their spouse would benefit greatly from this book.

Scott Bryant,

university chaplain

and vice president for

spiritual development 

East Texas Baptist University

Marshall

Divorcing? Remember Me by John LaNoue (Xulon Press)

John LaNoue wrote the first half of this intensely personal book more than 50 years ago. In it, he describes with painful honesty the heartbreak of growing up in a home where his parents divorced, remarried and divorced again. His parents' choices caused 16 years of emotional torment for their son and produced the need for six decades of healing. "I wish with all my heart that my folks would have remembered they had produced a child who belonged to both of them, a child who was a part of both of them and a child who did not divorce either of them," LaNoue writes.

The transitional chapter between the first half of the book and its concluding chapters tells how at age 16, two laymen from First Baptist Church in Beaumont visited LaNoue at his home. They introduced him to a new concept—that by confessing his sins and committing his life to Christ, he could become born again as a "new creation." At that point, he realized his life always would be influenced by his past, but it did not have to be controlled by it.

The latter chapters of the book tell the rest of the story. They describe LaNoue's court-ship of Kaywin—the West Texas beauty queen he met at college—and their 57 years (and counting) of marriage. While it's not a marriage manual, LaNoue offers practical, biblically based advice for a happy and God-honoring marriage.

Ken Camp,

managing editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

When You Need a Miracle: How to Ask God for the Impossible by Linda Evans Shepherd (Revell)

Linda Evans Shepherd brings a fresh perspective on miracles and the power of prayer in her new book, When You Need a Miracle. She states, "Miracles are not about praying the perfect prayer; miracles are about what happens when we welcome God's presence and power into our situations and our lives." She builds her thesis around several factors that will allow God into one's life to do his work—factors like trust, love, truth, forgiveness and praise.

In each chapter, Shepherd includes a miraculous prayer for the reader to pray about the chapter material and a Scripture portion to read aloud and ponder. Through these, she focuses the reader back over the materials of the chapters. A reader's guide, which basically is questions, will be of help to internalize the materials or can be used as a guide for small-group discussion.

In her conclusion, she states that having finished the book, the reader will have "experienced the miracle to trust (God), no matter what."

When You Need a Miracle is a good read that will stimulate your prayer and devotional life.

Leo Smith,

retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Travelers Rest by Ann Tatlock (Bethany House)

Schoolteacher Jane Morrow says a tearful good-bye to her fiancé when his National Guard unit deploys to Iraq. She eagerly awaits his return as she plans a happily-ever-after wedding at her grandmother's rural bed and breakfast.

But Ann Tatlock's Travelers Rest isn't a fairy tale. When an improvised explosive device makes Seth a quadriplegic, he insists Jane treat him as dead. Instead, she arranges to spend the summer near the VA Hospital. There, she encounters a deeply wounded man who says he doesn't want her.

Facing an uncertain future, Jane remembers the words of her favorite cook at the bed and breakfast: "Life's gear shift's got no reverse, so you've got to just keep moving forward." Through new friends at the VA, Jane finds the courage to pray. While the answers may not be what she wants, she learns God is in control. But first, she must let go of the past and trust him to move forward.

The author offers honest and sometimes heart-wrenching pictures of war's results. Her multilayered characters provide beautiful portraits of God's love and power. And while the ending might not be what the reader wants, the tears reflect real comfort and joy.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

Weeping With Those Who Weep: A Practical Guide for Ministering in the Crisis of Death by Terry Lester (A Pair of Docs Publishing)

Who could imagine saying, 'I couldn't put it down' about a book on ministry following death? But it's true about Weeping With Those Who Weep. Kentucky pastor Terry Lester's book overflows with empathy, love and compassion. His faith in God and love for hurting people speak wisdom from every page, and I held onto every word.

Lester is one of the most kind and caring pastors anywhere. Small wonder he wrote a book to help other pastors and church members minister to people whose loved one has died. He gleans from years of experience, spiritual sensitivity and a loving heart to produce a much-needed guide for ministering in the shadow of death.

Gentle, oh-so-practical wisdom fills the pages of this book. It addresses basic responses to death and preparation for funerals. And it includes insightful responses to unusual and unexpected circumstances. Clergy, deacons and other Christians who care for bereaved people will benefit from Lester's experienced, mature guidance and sensitive insight.

Marv Knox, editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

Tribal Church: Lead Small, Impact Big by Steve Stroope with Kurt Bruner (Broadman & Holman)

What sets Steve Stroope's book apart from many church leadership books is that he passes along ideas regarding managing the life of the individual and the church, not specific programs or concepts others should reproduce. The book focuses on the different tribes that exist within a congregation.

Stroope suggests the best way to lead a growing congregation is to prioritize one's time and energy in the right places or relationships. The importance of prioritizing one's family relationships, investing in key leaders, reaching out to those outside the church, and managing one's own time stand out as valuable chapters.

The book provides an inside look at many of the decisions made over the years at Stroope's Rockwall-based Lake Pointe Church, including the rationale behind and the complex management of a multisite congregation. Stroope humbly offers suggestions and resources developed along the way for others to consider.

No matter the size of one's congregation, pastors and lay leaders can glean valuable insights from this book.

Scott Bryant, university chaplain

and vice president for spiritual development 

East Texas Baptist University

Marshall

Daily in His Presence by Andrew Murray with Bruce Wilkinson (Multnomah)

Daily in His Presence is more than just another book of daily devotionals. Bruce Wilkinson has provided a look back on materials written by Andrew Murray that led to a great spiritual awakening in South Africa in the late 1800s.

Wilkinson took material Murray first wrote in the Afrikaans language to give to farmers in his congregation to help them stay in God's word for the time they were away from home working their fields. These farmers came back once a month for communion at their church. Wilkinson organized Murray's material around 12 monthly themes and wrote a brief introduction for these devotions. He also provided a scriptural index referencing the date of each devotional that will be a valuable asset to the reader.

Daily in His Presence is prefaced by a brief overview of Andrew Murray, a man whom Wilkinson calls "Servant of God, Man of Revival." This preface is worth reading over and over to catch the spiritual depth of Murray.

The devotions are to open your mind to grasp the secrets of knowing the Lord. Some subjects that will bless readers are "The Secret of Adoration," "Fellowship with God," "Intercession" and "Brotherly Love." Here is a tool you will be blessed to own and to read as your personal devotion over and again. I highly recommend this wonderful tool.

Leo Smith, retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Into the Pulpit: Southern Baptist Women and Power since World War II by Elizabeth H. Flowers, University of North Carolina Press

University presses generally publish objective, scholarly books. Elizabeth Flower's Into the Pulpit: Southern Baptist Women and Power since World War II deserves that reputation. In Into the Pulpit, the author analyzes the role of women and "the woman's question" in the context of society and Baptist life.

Flowers, an assistant professor at Texas Christian University, spent hours in archives, attended numerous women's gatherings, and interviewed both conservative and moderate Baptist women. An extensive bibliography documents her research, and she explains key concepts such as complementarianism and defines Southern Baptist Convention terms.  

A 25-page introduction sets the historical stage when the story of women revolved around missions and Woman's Missionary Union. Chapters 1 and 2 examine the landscape between 1948 and the 1978 SBC Consultation on Women in Church-Related Vocations. Chapter 3 follows the SBC controversy from 1979 to 1983. The final two chapters take readers from the 1984 SBC convention through the passage of the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message. A lengthy epilogue reviews the status of Baptist women since 2000.

Ultimately, Flowers shows how "the struggle of Southern Baptist women and the Southern Baptist struggle over women" constitute a "story within a story." And she does so with dignity, objectivity and grace.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas, Waco

Those Who Must Give an Account: A Study of Church Membership and Church Discipline by John S. Hammett & Benjamin L. Merkle, editors, B & H Academic

Increasingly, it seems many Baptists today think very little about what it means to be a member of a local church. Fewer still are the instances when Baptist churches seem to practice biblical church discipline. Is it possible we have watered down life in the church and devotion to Christ and his body? Have we subsequently impaired the mission he has given us by not teaching scripturally clear doctrine about what it means to be the church and represent Jesus to the world?

This helpful volume provides nine chapters written by nine Baptist scholars—mostly representing Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary—delving into the biblical theology and history of local church membership and discipline, while providing some practical suggestions for church leaders in implementing ideas and processes in developing a healthy understanding of church membership among the congregation and leading a church to practice sound corrective discipline.

Greg Bowman, minister to students

First Baptist Church, Duncanville

What God Did with a Mess Like Me by Jon Lineberger, Intersect Press

Jon Lineberger focuses on the absolute faithfulness of God in What God Did with a Mess Like Me. Born in a pastor's home and suffering from ADHD, he shares his personal testimony in three phases. Phase one—"Who I Was"—describes a downward spiral starting with juvenile pranks that escalated into more serious sins. All through this rebellion, he sensed God had not abandoned him.

The second phase is "Following Christ." Matthew 16:25 became the verse Lineberger stood on as God began to give new direction. God opened the way for the ADHD to be overcome through the process of his education at Houston Baptist University and ultimately other graduate degrees, along with the spiritual education God provided each step of the way.

The third phase—"A Better Way to Think and Live"—is the author's expression of his life now surrendered to Christ. God has a plan for each of us, and when we allow him to work, God can make something good out of messes like us!

What God Did with a Mess Like Me is a great read. You will be blessed. The author laces each chapter with great insights he learned along the way. He concludes his book by sharing 17 truths to a changed life that come from his own personal experiences. Enjoy the journey as you read. You will be reminded of God's work in your own life.

Leo Smith, retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men, Alvin

Daughter of a Preacher Man: A Road Less Traveled by Anna Picard (Author House)

Daughter of a Preacher Man: A Road Less Traveled has a relevant message for churches, pastors and their families. Picard writes from personal experiences of life on a small island, living with extended family, multicultural influences and strict religious expectations. She brings the reader face to face with her anger, frustration, heartache and, ultimately, God's grace.

The author mentions several experiences—particularly in sections about "On-stage performances," "Church politics," "Life's mistakes," "Faith and prayer" and "I want what Daddy has or do I?"—that negatively affected her and her siblings due to the strict religious expectations. Out of that raw emotion, Picard offers her insights to both the preacher's kids and their parents to prevent others from the same heartache. Two experiences mentioned, "On-stage performances" and "Church politics" resonated with me personally as a fellow pastor's daughter, since I experienced similar emotions.

Although at times the book seems a little harsh, I would recommend Daughter of a Preacher Man, A Road Less Traveled. It offers a new perspective and insight that would be beneficial to anyone who ever has served in a ministry capacity.

Terry Ray

Second Baptist Church of Houston South Campus

Pearland

Strangers in a Strange Land by Britt Towery (The Tao Foundation)

Strangers in a Strange Land tells the story of a remarkable missionary couple, Texans Maudie and Wilson Fielder, set in the geo-political upheaval of 20th century China. The book works on several levels—historical narrative, biographical drama and missions mandate.

This year marks 100 years since Wilson Fielder landed in China as a Baptist missionary. On the ocean voyage to the Orient, he realized he couldn't imagine ministry in China without the love of his life, Maudie Albritton. He proposed by mail, and she joined him two years later. A century ago, life in rural China wasn't that different from life in their West Texas homeland, and they adapted well.

The young Fielders may have been "strangers in a strange land," but their hearts embraced the Chinese people. Neither harsh conditions, nor two wars, nor his internment in prison camp could keep them away. They kept returning until the Nationalist/ Communist civil war forced them back to Texas in 1950. They left their legacy—a host of trained and faithful Christians—in the China they loved.

In Strangers in a Strange Land, Britt Towery puts a face on Baptist missions. He knows that face well: He was friends with the Fielders, and he served more than 30 years as a missionary in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Mainland China.

Marv Knox, editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God by Dallas Willard (IVP)

This new edition of Dallas Willard's work, originally published in 1984, is interactive. It includes six exercises asking the reader to read, reflect, respond and rest on assigned Bible verses. The Scriptures assigned in the six exercises—which Willard calls "Hearing God in Scripture"—are from 1 and 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, Psalms, Romans and 1 Corinthians.

"Being close to God means communicating with him," Willard says. But the book goes much deeper. It provides a blueprint for communing with God, then moving from communion to union. In addition to hearing God in Scripture, Willard mentions God speaking through his "still, small voice" and even notes the adversaries of that voice.

The beauty of this book is they way it exposes the reader to hearing God through obedience to him. The hefty volume's exhaustive appendix tells the reader where to find the answers in the book, and it provides an expanded Scripture index. There is also a six-session companion DVD, produced in conjunction with Renovare. Richard Foster, author of Celebration of Discipline, and John Ortberg, author of The Me I Want to Be, join Willard on the DVD. With its supplemental sections, Hearing God is 304 pages. You may need, as I did, to read and read it again, but it is well worth it.

Skip Holman, minister of discipleship

Northeast Baptist Church

San Antonio

Beyond the Closure Myth by Glen Schmucker (Faithful Rendition Press)

"I'm so glad God didn't give me the life I first dreamed of having. I would have completely missed the one I'm living now … in a place of redemption I never knew existed," Glen Schmucker writes in Beyond the Closure Myth.

Readers will join Schmucker in that gladness, because if he had not endured loss and disappointment, they would not hold this book, brimming with hope.

Schmucker, a longtime Texas Baptist pastor, writes with generosity and poignancy. He's generous, because he's willing to strip off ministerial armor to reveal the pain of divorce and the agony of struggling to find identity and vocation. He's poignant, because although his circumstances are unique, his suffering is all too common.

Schmucker pokes holes in the theory that wounded people can find "closure" for their loss. But through those holes, he provides glimpses of God at work, bringing about possibilities and a future beyond mere imagination.

This is a Romans 8:28 book. In all things, God is working to bring about good in the lives of those who love him.

Marv Knox, editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

The Commands of Christ: What It Really Means to Follow Jesus by Tom Blackaby (Broadman & Holman Books)

Tom Blackaby wrote The Man God Uses with his dad, Henry, and wrote The Family God Uses with his wife, Kim. As the sole author of The Commands of Christ, he focuses on what Christians can do to demonstrate love for the Lord, concentrating on obedience to the commands of Christ.

According to Blackaby, Christ wants the same healthy and vibrant relationship with Christians— God's children—as he experiences with his Father (John 15-17).

Christ's first command calls for repentance, and at the end of each chapter or section, there is an application paragraph for the reader.

From loving God, to loving others, to loving your enemies and "turning the other cheek," Blackaby extracts the commands within all those categories, as well as others.

The same is true about godly character. Claiming God always will match his assignment with a Christian's character, the book emphasizes various areas of obedience to his commands.

This book is not dealing with the "Ten Commandments" but Christ's commands to and for his followers. It is thought-provoking on many levels.

Skip Holman, minister of discipleship

Northeast Baptist Church

San Antonio

You've Got to Be Kidding by Cookie Leonardelli (Author House)

In You've Got to be Kidding, Pastor Cookie Leonardelli reflects on the experiences of her walk with God and the up-and-down experiences of her life. She uses a conversational approach to her story, so you feel her emotions, and it gives flavor to what she writes.

Leonardelli was the youth director of her church when she took her youth to Lone Tree Bible Ranch for a spiritual retreat. God used that retreat and the speaker to call her to write this book.

Her story includes both joys and sorrows. She tells about the death of one daughter, the struggle of another with drugs and other problems. Leonardelli reveals her own struggle in becoming the pastor of her church. In all of this, she sees the hand of God and realizes he is in control. Thus, the book's title grows out of the things she faced, causing her to say, "You've got to be kidding."

Readers will find plenty of good material here, but be prepared to wade through a lot of rambling. Overall, it's interesting reading.

Leo Smith, retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and Homosexuality by Wesley Hill (Zondervan)

If you're keeping a list of courageous Christians, add Wesley Hill's name. In Washed and Waiting, Hill presents a candid, insightful account of celibate homosexual Christians' agonizing dilemma: Remain pure and gut-wrenchingly lonely, or accept a partner and spurn the gospel as they have received it.

Hill stands exposed in a cultural battlefield. He has prayed and tried to change his orientation but cannot, he reports. That's enough to provoke the ire, or at least judgment, from the right. But "the option of same-sex, erotically expressive partnerships" is not faithful to Scripture, he also insists. And that draws criticism from the left.

Hill shares his spiritual and emotional struggle, explores the church's responsibility and examines God's love. This is a painful, personal book. And all Christians—particularly those for whom homosexuals are objects, not people—should read it. Understanding and empathy are available for believers who will consider the challenge faced by celibate gay Christians.

Marv Knox, editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick (Tyndale House)

On Nov. 5, 2006, the life of vivacious, athletic, intelligent high school sophomore Jennifer Barrick changed forever. In Miracle for Jen, her mother, Linda, chronicles the difficult journey.

On their way home from Sunday evening services, Linda and Andy Barrick and their children, Jen and Josh, crossed paths with a speeding drunk. Eleven-year-old Josh woke to find his bleeding family unconscious. Trapped and critically hurt, the parents came to moments later. First responders found Jennifer near death with massive brain trauma and multiple injuries. If she lived, she never would be the same.

Jen eventually regained consciousness, forever changed—always fragile, sometimes confused, often in pain. But she developed exceptional perception and an extraordinary relationship with God. The teen might not be normal, but she could be a miraculous blessing.

Ultimately, Linda Barrick concludes that "blessed doesn't mean easy." Jen writes in her journal, "Trials give us new perspectives on life that increase our faith." The heart-wrenching, heart-rending, heart-warming memoir is not the story of a car accident but of God's grace and perfect will. Read Miracle for Jen, but only with tissues nearby.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

Insights on Revelation by Charles R. Swindoll (Zondervan)

Insights on Revelation is part of Charles Swindoll's New Testament Insights book series. Swindoll combines his gifts as a masterful storyteller and deep theologian to make this a fresh and enjoyable book you will be glad to add to your library.

Swindoll sets the stage for each movement of the Revelation using the inspired story line. The text itself is from the New American Standard Bible. Swindoll takes the letters of the seven churches, adding photographs and descriptions from his own tours. He writes asides called "My Journal" to illustrate the drama from the Revelation, and he draws applications from the text to make the teaching of Revelation relevant to the reader today. Maps, photos, illustrations and graphs fill the pages, providing a visual look at the message of Revelation.

Swindoll pulls out specific subjects like "five marks of a dead church" and expounds on them, applying their truth. The author carefully takes key terms such as "hot," "cold" and "lukewarm" from the text and expounds on them, helping the reader to understand clearly. He writes about the many images like "the Beast," giving the literal identification of each and then adding an explanation and his interpretation.

Swindoll provides present-day views of the sites mentioned in Revelation and contrasts them with ancient views.

I found this book to be enjoyable reading with new insights and great illustrations, and I consider it doctrinally sound.

Leo Smith, retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Downfall by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan)

In the third and final volume of her Intervention series, author Terri Blackstock pens a murder mystery with a touch of romance.

Addict Emily Covington has been clean two years, but the college student's mother isn't so sure. Barbara believes the family's move to Atlanta to be near her detective boyfriend has sent Emily back to drugs. A mother's worst fears seem realized when Emily's car is bombed and two women turn up dead.

With a plot related to Alfred Hitchcock's Strangers on a Train, Emily connects the dots only to discover she's playing into an avenger's hands. Although the identity of the killer remains a mystery, Blackstock takes the reader inside his head as he focuses on ruining the Covington's lives. But why? And by the time Emily and her mother's boyfriend figure out the answer, will it be too late?

The murders occur "off page" with minimal gore as the story unfolds in short, quick chapters. The book closes with an uplifting, unpredictable ending. In between, the author treats church involvement and Scripture as a natural part of life.

Although Blackstock makes her plot understandable for those who haven't perused Intervention and Vicious Cycle, mystery-lovers will enjoy the whodunits more by reading them in order.

Kathy Robinson Hillman,

former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

The Christmas Star by Ace Collins (Abingdon Press)

The Christmas Star is a fast-paced novel that takes place over a span of four days leading up to Christmas, 1945. The main character, 16-year-old Jimmy Reed, lives with his mother, a war widow, and dreads every Christmas since his father was killed in action in 1942.

The plot's conflict centers on Jimmy's anger at his father's death and his desire to live up to his father's standards as a well-loved member of the community. For most of the book, his anger wins out, as Jimmy enters into a dangerous alliance with three small-time crooks. Through a series of God-ordained meetings with several secondary characters who live out their everyday lives with a sacred sense of purpose, Jimmy's heart is turned. The ending, although not entirely believable, does wrap up the novel nicely.

The author writes convincing dialogue, sprinkling biblical truth in a natural way, and he certainly knows how to spin a good tale. However, frequent misspellings and errors in punctuation and grammar caused confusing meanings and awkward reading. I hope these distracting mistakes will be corrected in subsequent editions.

Sarah Crouch, adjunct professor

Dallas Baptist University

Beautiful Outlaw by John Eldredge (Faith Works)

In the style of Wild at Heart, John Eldredge captures the true humanity of Jesus in Beautiful Outlaw. He focuses on Philippians 2:6-8, "Jesus emptied himself of all the glory he had at the right hand of the Father and became a man." God became man—and a real man with all the quirks associated with humanity—is the focus of Eldredge in this work.

Eldredge begins with a quick overview that challenges the conventional view of Jesus, from the polished Nativity scenes in our churches and homes to the white robes in which he often is pictured. We fail to see the stench and dirty straw of the manger or the scarred hands of Jesus and rolled-up sleeves as he waded through water, mending nets and gutting fish with his disciples. Jesus never did anything half-heartedly. He demanded obedience from nature in calming the seas. Eldredge presents a Jesus who was thoroughly human in the way he spoke, dressed, reacted and taught.

Eldredge challenges the reader to live as Jesus did based on Matthew 16:25—to lose your life in him in order to find real life. The author says, "Grab for life, and it falls through your fingers like sand; give your life away to God, and you will be the person his life can fill."

Beautiful Outlaw will bless and challenge readers as they see Jesus engaging in real life. I highly recommend the book for all men and women who want to see the humanity of the Savior.

Leo Smith,

retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Staying Alive by Mark Wingfield (Lucas Parks Books)

Veteran Baptist journalist Mark Wingfield, who has served the last eight and a half years as associate pastor at Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas, spent a six-month sabbatical visiting 15 congregations of varied denominations in major metropolitan areas around the country and talking with their leaders. Each congregation sees itself as traditional—whether in worship style, programming and organization, denominational identity or all of the above—and each is thriving. His research yielded this helpful and hopeful book that carries the subtitle, "Why the conventional wisdom about traditional churches is wrong."

Healthy traditional congregations understand their identity and embrace it, rather than copying what works for another church in a totally different context, he observes. Vibrant churches exhibit three key characteristics—excellence, intentionality and creativity—and those traits transcend contemporary or traditional categories. Wingfield examines best practices in areas such as worship, adult education, children and youth, missions and hospitality. And he emphasizes the need to change and adapt, while holding true to core identity.

Wingfield readily acknowledges the success of seeker-sensitive churches in reaching previously unchurched people, but he also points to the value of congregations securely grounded in faith traditions that can guide believers to the next level of spiritual maturity. He rightly asks, "Is it possible that in God's economy, both types of congregations are needed for different purposes?"

Ken Camp, managing editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer (Bethany House)

Dale Cramer sets The Captive Heart in the rugged mountains of Mexico during the turbulent 1920s. Based on the true story of an Amish colony, the novel details the struggles of the Bender family to eke out a living despite deadly diphtheria and dangerous desperados.

The second of The Daughters of Caleb Bender series focuses on 19-year-old Miriam. Her passion for children leads her to teach reading to local boys and girls. The Benders' handsome farmhand Domingo attends some classes, and Miriam feels drawn to the non-Amish man.

Domingo emerges as Miriam's gentle but fierce protector. He manages to save the Amish from El Pantera, but the bandit vows revenge. With Domingo far away, the desperado attacks, leaving Miriam's brother for dead and kidnapping her sister Rachel. When Rachel's fiancé impulsively rides after her, Domingo follows. Can they save her and at what price? And if they do, how will Miriam's future change?

The best-selling author's research leads to a novel steeped in history that reflects today's headlines. Cramer fills the pages with action and leaves the reader guessing until the very end.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

A Vision for the Aging Church by James M. Houston & Michael Parker (InterVarsity Press)

A Vision for the Aging Church is an impressive and valuable work for any church leader in our aging society. Houston and Parker provide many insights that society in general and churches in particular will face in the near future. They say the aging church is no accident, since God has granted longer life and speaks clearly about the biblical role of elders.

Houston and Parker address the older generation's consistency in worship and devotion to prayer, as well as their steadfast and sacrificial spirit. The authors remind us God speaks of the church's responsibility with regard to honoring and caring for elders.

The book dispels myths of aging like "to be old is to be sick" and "the elderly don't pull their own weight." The book also addresses issues from caregiving to senior ministries that are well established in many churches. Readers will learn about issues of faith, disabilities, depression, dementia and other subjects.

A Vision for the Aging Church not only will provide a strong biblical basis to minister to senior adults, but also will open eyes to ways these adults can provide great wisdom and inspiration to the younger generation.

I personally was blessed greatly by the careful research and the insightful work of James Houston and Michael Parker. The young and older reader will be blessed, and perhaps a "new vision" for your church will emerge. I commend A Vision for the Aging Church to be carefully digested and applied in any local church's situation.

Leo Smith, retired executive director

Texas Baptist Men

Alvin

Roger Williams and the Creation of the American Soul by John M. Barry (Viking)

Two men who shared a common commitment to Christ and the Bible agreed 17th century America could become a model for the world. But they differed greatly in what kind of model.

John Winthrop, first governor of Massachusetts, wanted to create a shining "city on a hill"—a New Jerusalem in the New World that would be an example of Christian virtue and religious practice nurtured by the state. Roger Williams, on the other hand, founded Providence Plantations in Rhode Island as a place of refuge for people persecuted because they followed the dictates of conscience. Williams envisioned a model where religious liberty would be protected by keeping church and state separate from one another.

Author John M. Barry traces early influences on Williams, ranging from noted British jurist Edward Coke to philosopher Francis Bacon, as well as examining the theological underpinnings of his views on soul liberty. Likewise, he notes how Williams' writings on freedom of conscience, individual rights and the separation of church and state influenced John Milton and John Locke, who—in turn—influenced Thomas Jefferson.

More than just a history lesson, Barry provides insights into the competing visions that still shape the religious and political landscape in the United States.

Ken Camp, managing editor

Baptist Standard

Plano

The Baker Illustrated Bible Handbook by J. Daniel Hays & J. Scott Duvall, editors (Baker Books)

Daniel Hays and Scott Duvall have added a hefty volume to the extensive list of Christian resources. The Baker Illustrated Bible Handbook delivers a wealth of background information, a multitude of explanatory materials and a plethora of full-color images and maps. More than 60 evangelical scholars, many of them Baptist, contribute more than 100 articles to the new reference book.

The editors provide an overview of the Bible then organize the handbook into Old and New Testament sections, divide by general categories and subdivide by Bible book. Specific information for each book includes general background, the author, the audience, the setting, the heart of the book, the uniqueness, the message, applications for today and favorite verses. Supplementary articles and illustrations accompany the text. The handbook's final sections encompass "How the Bible Came to Be" and "Digging Deeper into the Bible."

The Baker Illustrated Bible Handbook offers significant information in a very appealing format. While an index might have increased its usefulness, the handbook is worth adding to the library of the Christ-follower who wishes to enrich Bible study or expand biblical knowledge.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

Love Food & Live Well By Chantel Hobbs (Random House)

Chantel Hobbs loved food, and her plus-sized figure evidenced that fact. Never considering her weight an issue, the wife and mother of four learned to accept her body type. The turning point came when she found it impossible to fasten her seatbelt on an airplane. When a flight attendant loudly insisted that she buckle up before takeoff, Hobbs admitted her inability. The humiliation from that experience forced her to examine her relationship with food. She lost 200 pounds.

In Love Food & Live Well, Hobbs applies a simple approach to weight-loss maintenance derived from biblical principles. As a professional life coach and personal trainer, she urges readers to focus on honoring God through healthy eating and fitness. This advice, combined with a simple eating plan and exercise routine, promises readers weight loss results that last a lifetime.

Love Food & Live Well does not offer breakthrough dieting formulas or quick results, but Hobbs' personal story and encouragement give readers hope that they, too, can lose weight.

Tameshia Williams, student

Dallas Theological Seminary

Transcending the Natural by Bill Lawson (Xulon Press)

Whether you seek a nonfiction narrative or a Bible study, Transcending the Natural meets your needs. The opening story captures the reader's attention. Bill Lawson describes how traveling to play golf altered his life. Transcending the Natural provides insight and anecdotes of Lawson's life. Colorful illustrations of U.S. history also are included. The book explains many miracles in the Bible performed by Jesus. God's guidance, blessings and love resonate throughout the book.

Grab Transcending the Natural and settle into your favorite chair. Enjoy the journey with Lawson, as he shares his lifetime of wisdom. The diverse stories and examples surely will enhance your mind, regardless of your previous experience. These begin during Lawson's boyhood, son of a Baptist pastor. The journey continues as he attends Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. His professional life varies from working in the corporate world to serving in the U.S. military. Occasionally the grammar lags; however, the gained wisdom far exceeds any inconvenience.

Rick E. Meyer

Dallas

Jacob: Journaling the Journey by Michelle Lesley (Journey Press)

Author Michelle Lesley offers a unique book/journal based on the life of Jacob. Using Genesis chapters 25-50, Lesley allows the story of Jacob to guide her own journal thoughts.

At the back of each chapter, Lesley raises a thought-provoking question to answer. Each chapter conclusion is titled "Tabula Rasa," Latin for "blank slate." There is one question to answer followed by a half-page titled "Journal Time," left blank so the reader can record how God is speaking. Full blank pages at the end of the book provide additional space for journaling.

This book differs from a basic blank journal used for taking sermon notes or journaling during a prayer time. This is guided journaling in which the reader responds to what's just been read—in this case, stories from the life of Jacob and his family. Because of that, the book asks readers much about their family experiences and how they respond to them. Enjoy this book as a fresh way to look at journaling.

Skip Holman, minister of discipleship

Northeast Baptist Church

San Antonio

The Harry Potter Bible Study by Jared Moore (CreatSpace)

Jared Moore's stated purpose in writing this book is to teach Christians how to interact with pop culture. Since all truth is God's truth, he asserts Christians must participate in media in order to recognize where the world intersects with the truth of God's world.

Moore briefly discusses the evil elements in these final four films, but he extracts many truth principles and builds on them with supporting Scriptures. They include laying down our life for our friends and standing up for truth. Additionally, he encourages readers to dig deeper by examining trickier questions such as the Christian response to racism and whether sinners deserve to be saved from their sins.

The introduction provides an excellent foundation for this Bible study, and the book's appendix presents the author's argument in favor of watching scary movies. He suggests a lack of faith in God's control and/or the sinful choice of depression could be the source of anxiety over watching these films. Whether you agree with those conclusions, this book is a recommended resource for family worship, neighborhood outreach, youth/college groups or sermon illustrations.

Sarah Crouch, adjunct professor

Dallas Baptist University

The Presidents & Their Faith: From George Washington to Barack Obama by Darrin Grinder & Steve Shaw (Russell Media)

This short but amazingly comprehensive book is similar to other books on the faith of America's presidents. While naturally including many exact quotes from numerous treatments of the subject, the authors do present certain limited facts and emphases not covered by other writers. Since this is the first volume to include a current president's religious beliefs before he completes his term in office, some revisions may have to be made in future editions of the book.

However, these writers have made a significant contribution to an important aspect of America's history. While the actual quotes from our presidents' speeches concerning their Christian faith are limited, some have not been readily available in other sources. This book should be of great interest both to historians and theologians to aid in discovering and investigating our country's Christian heritage through each president's faith.

Ed Spann, retired dean

College of Fine Arts

Dallas Baptist University

Out of Mormonism: A Woman's True Story by Judy Robertson (Bethany House)

How much do you know about Mormonism? Perhaps you've enjoyed their magnificent Tabernacle Choir. Possibly you've encountered their clean-cut missionaries. Maybe you understand adherents don't ingest caffeine. Possibly you're aware of the TV show Sister Wives. Almost certainly, you've heard talk of a Mormon presidential candidate's faith. But what do you really know?

Judy Robertson shares her story in Out of Mormonism. Typical of many converts, Robertson and her husband admired the group's clean living and family values. After an unpleasant experience in their family's mainline Protestant church and after moving three states away from home, the Robertsons became easy marks.

In this newly revised edition, the author details the family's journey into fully embracing Mormonism. But she also tells how the couple made the difficult transition back to a Bible-believing church and the heart-wrenching impact their decision had on their two children and her husband's job.

An epilogue, four appendices and a glossary add to understanding the faith, its appeal and the way out to eternal life through Christ. Judy Robertson's autobiography offers insights and information helpful for Christians in today's climate who need to know more about Mormonism.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

The Pickled Priest and the Perishing Parish: Boomer Pastors Bouncing Back by Hal West (CrossBooks)

Author and pastor Hal West poses an important question: How will Boomer pastors revive the church in the 21st century?

West is one of about 78 million Boomers in the United States—part of the group born between 1946 and 1964, a time when churches formed a major role in shaping the value system in America. West beautifully describes a Mayberry-esque upbringing when manners, honesty and church attendance defined the norm. Churches grew. If you built it, they would come.

Today's pastors who continue modeling that same leadership style in a drastically changed church are witnessing perishing parishes. Church attendance continues to decline. West asks: How will pastors introduce God to future generations if they won't enter the church? Good question.

Although I don't find revolutionary answers, I appreciate the willingness of Pastor West to clearly articulate and initiate conversation. The author seeks to bring both the church and its people back. That is the beginning of wisdom.

Angie Vaughan

Dallas

The Resignation of Eve by Jim Henderson (Tyndale)

Close your eyes and imagine a glorious Sunday morning—without women. Most Sunday school rooms remain dark. A few men arrive with their sons but not many. Musicians struggle to lead worship. Ushers and offering counters are at full strength minus bulletins and pre-service coffee. "Won't happen," you say. Perhaps, but Jim Henderson paints that picture in The Resignation of Eve.

Females make up the majority of weekly churchgoers and volunteers. Yet since 1991, their attendance has declined dramatically, and the percentage of unchurched women has increased dramatically. Employing statistics, research and interviews, the author divides Christian women into three groups using the term "resigned."

The first are resigned to their roles at church. Some agree with a position that generally relegates them to support functions. Many don't know their pastors' views. Others have chosen acceptance while disagreeing, often for the sake of family.

A growing number of women have resigned. They may remain members but no longer exercise their greatest gifts in the church. Others have left the church or religion altogether.

Some women have "re-signed." They've signed on with other churches or denominations where they find leaders who "honor and encourage them to become whatever God has made them to be."  A few have found "creative workarounds.

Whatever one's position on the role of females in the church, The Resignation of Eve offers an insightful view into women who feel overworked and undervalued. Ponder the question. What are the kingdom consequences, as Henderson asks in the book's subtitle, If Adam's Rib Is No Longer Willing to Be the Church's Backbone?

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Woman's Missionary Union of Texas

Waco

 
A Faith of our Own by Jonathan Merritt (FaithWords)

The 1980s saw conservative evangelicals and the Christian Right wed the Republican Party. A Faith of Our Own by Jonathan Merritt offers a thoughtful explanation that outlines the new conservatism of today's young adult generation. He depicts a cohort of socially minded activists ready to end binding partisanship and embrace the Christian Middle.

At times, the book feels like a call to disarm those who have championed traditionally high-profile social issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage, citing their 25-year failure to change the status quo. At other moments, Merritt sounds the charging trumpet to action. He declares all social issues equal and challenges the reader to apply the gospel in a new way. While the book lacks clarity in presenting the gospel, it does advocate a gracious approach to dealing with all people. After a 25-year marriage, Jonathan Merritt serves the Republican Party divorce papers on behalf of evangelical Christianity and urges the separation of these two great powers.

Byron West

Heartland

Because You Care: Spiritual Encouragement for Caregivers by Cecil Murphey & Twila Belk (Harvest House)

Cecil Murphey and Twila Belk have worked together for years. He is the author of more than 125 books, while she is a writer and speaker and also works as his assistant. But they have something more in common—both are long-term caregivers.

Now they've co-written a brief but helpful book, Because You Care. The book's subtitle, "Spiritual Encouragement for Caregivers," reveals its simple theme—lifting the hearts of those who provide care for an ill or elderly loved one. The authors take turns sharing a bit of their personal stories for others on the same difficult journey. They've also included insightful stories told by other caregivers. Brief chapters speak to issues in caring for a parent, child or spouse: Caregivers must watch someone suffer and sometimes die; they might struggle with feeling invisible, or with guilt; they sometimes endure the insensitivities of others. The 48-page gift book offers gentle wisdom for those who might feel pushed to their limit.

Nature photography by Betty Fletcher provides bright floral and scenic images throughout the slim, hard-bound book. Each beautiful page adds to the hope-inspiring passages. Because You Care should encourage anyone in the role of a caregiver.

Patti Richter

Heath