Friday, August 30, 2013

Newly Published Christian Books Inspire And Educate

By Amanda Baird


Pray for wisdom and understanding before reading newly published Christian books. Find truth by following the instructions of 1 Thessalonians 5:21 to "Test all things; hold fast what is good". Look up the scriptures quoted in your reading materials, read preceding and following verses to be sure you understand the context, and read related scriptures. Learning about the church, spirituality, truth, morality, history, and life stories of other believers, keeps readers on the path to spiritual growth and a meaningful faith walk. Reading serves to educate, inspire, and encourage.

The Holy Bible is the number 1 best selling book of all time. It's available in a variety of translations. Many editions contain topical articles and study notes. Newly published study guides offer topical studies and and studies on individual books of the Bible with interpretation and historical context.

Fiction stories may focus on a biblical story or historical times, expanding the scene and dialogue to give readers the feel for the times and the emotional context. Other fiction focuses on modern life, with fictional characters and stories that will resonate with the readers lives, problems, dreams, and concerns. Some fiction is allegorical, using symbolic figures, actions, or representations to present truth, in other words, a modern day parable.

A summary or overview of the Old and New Testament is a good way to start any exploration into biblical studies. Read about the history of biblical times to gain a deeper and fuller understanding. For inspiration and encouragement read the personal testimonies of other Christians and converts, and biographies of the great evangelists, preachers, teachers, and martyrs of the faith. Reading stories about evangelists encourages believers to act on the great commission - to tell the world.

For daily reflection and meditation, look for a devotional, a collection of readings focusing on a biblical verse per day. A devotional is also a great starting place for family devotions. With family or alone, prayer and meditation is a great way to start the morning, gather with family, and/or end the day. It keeps you and your family focused on relationship and spiritual growth.

Theological collections are in-depth discussions of biblical meaning and interpretations, the questions that unite as well as separate the church. What makes this religion special, and why should anyone believe the Bible stories? If your faith is weak, or you just want to be sure, or you want to discuss the reasons for your belief with others, look under the category called apologetics, the reasoned defense of the faith.

Newly published Christian books can be found at bookstores and retail outlets, large and small, Christian and secular. They're also available at many online wholesale and retail outlets. Many churches have lending libraries, as does most every town and city.

So many to choose from, so little time. So how do you choose? Churches often have study groups that focus on newly published Christian books. Check Christian newsletters or magazines for reading list recommendations. If you have a favorite TV or radio preacher, most are also authors, regularly publishing new books. Online is a good place to find lists of books that are top sellers. Large stores will usually have a special section for newly published materials.




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