The Pastor as Defender of the Faith Program

Copyright by Rodger Dalman, 2009

Brooklyn Center, MN

While the Pastor as Defender of the Faith Program offers neither academic credit nor a degree, the level of learning that it can provide can be compared to a Masters of Divinity in Apologetic Studies (66 Program Units)

The following courses require reading your choice of a wide selection of books. Before selecting a book, begin by checking the write up of the books either at the publishers’ web sites or at online book sources like Amazon.com. Contact information and web addresses for the book publishers and book sellers can be found at the BOOKS section of the Peace Evangelical Virtual Seminary -  RESOURCE CENTER. Select books that fit your interests, your ability level, and your financial situation. For helpful advice about finding books, see the BOOKS section of the RESOURCE CENTER.

This project requires reading a variety of mainstream (liberal) books so that you will understand how those authors see the Bible. Conservative studies may not always be correct, but they are at least based on generally correct assumptions. Mainstream (liberal) studies are sometimes of almost no value because they are based on incorrect assumptions about the text. However, that is often not a fair statement. Many other mainstream liberal works can be interesting and helpful, although their conclusions may need to be reinterpreted in the light of conservative presuppositions.

SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY

TH 111 - SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY, PART I (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully ONE of the following books. Then summarize for yourself the most important ideas that you found in your reading. You may substitute a systematic theology text that reflects the theological traditions of your own denomination.

Alister E. McGrath. Christian Theology: An Introduction. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2001. ISBN: 0-631-22528-5

Boettner, Loraine. Studies in Theology. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-115-0

Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1995. ISBN: 0-310-28670-0

Sproul, R. C. The Consequences of Ideas. Wheaton, IL: Crossway ISBN: 978-1-58134-172-0

Strong, Augustus H. Systematic Theology. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-0177-3

Williams, J. Rodman. Renewal Theology: Systematic Theology from a Charismatic Perspective. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996. ISBN: 0-310-20914-5

TH 116 - SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY, PART II: UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM APPROACHES TO SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following books. Select one conservative and two mainstream studies. To defend the faith, it is important to understand the claims that are being made in the academic mainstream. Then summarize for yourself the most important ideas that you found in your reading.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Allert, Craig D. A High View of Scripture? The Authority of the Bible and the Formation of the New Testament Canon. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2778-9

Beale, G. K. The Erosion of Inerrancy in Evangelicalism: Responding to New Challenges to Biblical Authority. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2008. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0203-3

Boettner, Loraine. The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-112-6

Boice, James Montgomery and Ryken, Philip Graham. The Doctrines of Grace. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-4335-1128-8

Bowman, Robert M. Jr. and Komoszewski, J. Ed. Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2983-5

Burrell, David. Faith and Freedom: An Interfaith Perspective. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 1-4051-2171-8

Clark, Gordon H. Predestination. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-169-X

Cole, Graham A. Engaging with the Holy Spirit. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-972-6

Couch, Mal. ed. A Biblical Theology of the Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2411-3

Feinberg, John S. and Feinberg, Paul D. Ethics for a Brave New World. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-736-7

Ford, David F. and Muers, Rachel. The Modern Theologians. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2005. ISBN: 1-4051-0277-2

Gromacki, Robert. The Virgin Birth: A Biblical Study of the Deity of Jesus Christ. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2746-6

Grudem, Wayne. The Gift of Prophecy in the New Testament and Today. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-243-7

Henry, Carl F. God, Revelation and Authority. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-056-3

Hauerwas, Stanley and Wells, Samuel. The Blackwell Companion to Christian Ethics. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 0-631-23506-X

Johnson, Gary L. W. and Waters, Gay P. eds. By Faith Alone. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-840-8

Lloyd-Jones, Martin. The Assurance of Our Salvation. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-140-9

Motyer, Alec. Look to the Rock: An Old Testament Background to Our Understanding of Christ. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3169-2

Nicholas, Stephen and Brandt, Eric. Ancient Word, Changing Worlds: The Doctrine of Scripture in a Modern World. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0260-6

Packer, J. I. and Dever, Mark. In My Place Condemned He Stood. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-287-4

Peterson, Robert A. Hell on Trial: The Case for Eternal Punishment. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-372-2

Piper, John. Counted Righteous in Christ. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-446-9

Piper, John. et al. eds. Beyond the Bounds. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-462-2

Roberts, Mark D. Can We Trust the Gospels? Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-866-8

Schaeffer, Francis A. A Christian Manifesto. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-692-3

Schaeffer, Francis A. The Great Evangelical Disaster. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-308

Shedd, William G. T. Dogmatic Theology. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-188-6

Spiegel, James S. The Benefits of Providence. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-616-9

Storms, Sam. Chosen for Life. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-843-9

Torrance, Thomas F. Incarnation: The Person and Life of Christ. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2891-3

Unger, Merrill F. Biblical Demonology: A Study of Spiritual Forces at Work Today. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3901-8

Vickers, Brian. Jesus’ Blood and Righteousness. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-754-8

Ware, Bruce. God’s Greater Glory. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-443-1

Wells, David F. Reforming or Conforming? Post-Conservative Evangelicals and the Emerging Church. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0118-0

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Dorrien, Gary. The Making of American Liberal Theology. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664223564

Faber, Roland. God as Poet of the World: Exploring Process Theologies. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230760

Hodgson, Peter C. Liberal Theology: A Radical Vision. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6218-9

Jensen, David H. The Lord and Giver of Life: Perspectives on Constructive Pneumatology. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664231675

Joh, Wonhee Anne. Heart of the Cross: A Postcolonial Christology. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230630

Keller, Catherine. On the Mystery: Discerning Divinity in Process. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6276-9

McFague, Sallie. A New Climate for Theology: God, the World, and Global Warming. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6271-4

Pauw, Amy Plantinga and Jones, Serene. Feminist and Womanist Essays in Reformed Dogmatics. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664224370

Placher, William C. The Triune God: An Essay in Postliberal Theology. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230609

Pui-Lan, Kwok. Postcolonial Imagination & Feminist Theology. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664228835

Wilson, John E. Introduction to Modern Theology: Trajectories in the German Tradition. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN:9780664228620

TH 113 – APOLOGETICS, OR DEFENDING THE FAITH, PART I (3 Program Units)

Select and read THREE books from the following list. Then summarize for yourself the ideas that seem most convincing. Summarize the case that can be made to unbelievers to argue that the Bible’s view of reality is correct.

Anderson, Owen. Benjamin B. Warfield and Right Reason: The Clarity of General Revelation and Function of Apologetics. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2005. ISBN: 0-7618-3288-2

Bahnsen, Greg L. Van Til’s Apologetic: Readings and Analysis. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-098-7

Frame, John M. Apologetics to the Glory of God: An Introduction. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-243-2

Geisler, Norman L. Christian Apologetics. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3822-8

Geisler, Norman L. and Turek, Frank. I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-561-2

Habermas, Gary R. and Licona, Michael R. The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2788-6

Lindsley, Art. Love, the Ultimate Apologetic. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3427-3

MacArthur, John F. Nothing but the Truth. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-090-7

Mohler, R. Albert Jr. Atheism Remix: A Christian Confronts the New Atheists. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0497-6

Nash, Ronald H. The Word of God and the Mind of Man. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-354-4

Nash, Ronald H. World-Views in Conflict: Choosing Christianity in a World of Ideas. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992. ISBN: 0-310-57771-3

Newman, Randy. Questioning Evangelism: Engaging People’s Hearts the Way Jesus Did. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3324-5

Olphint, K. Scott. The Battle Belongs to the Lord: The Power of Scripture for Defending the Faith. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-561-X

Pearse, Meic. The Gods of War. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3490-7

Phillips, Richard. ed. Only One Way? Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-801-9

Rookmaaker, H. R. Modern Art and the Death of Culture. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-799-2

Schaeffer, Francis A. How Should We Then Live? Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-56134-536-0

Sih, Samuel S. I Know There Is a God: The Wise, Living, and Loving Watchmaker. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2006. ISBN: 0-7618-3396

Sproul, R. C. Defending the Faith. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-519-3

Story, Dan. Christianity on the Offense: Responding to the Beliefs and Assumptions of Spiritual Seekers. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3676-5

Story, Dan. Defending Your Faith: Reliable Answers for a New Generation of Seekers and Skeptics. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3674-1

Story, Dan. Engaging the Closed Mind: Presenting Your Faith to the Confirmed Unbeliever. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3677-2

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Christ: A Journalists Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN: 0-310-20930-7

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Faith: A Journalist Investigates the Tough Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN: 0-310-22015-7

Taylor, James E. Introducing Apologetics: Cultivating Christian Commitment. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2786-4

Tucker, Ruth A. Another Gospel: Cults, Alternative Religions and the New Age Movement. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1989. ISBN: 0-310-40440-1

Veith, John S. Jr. Loving God with All Your Mind. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-512-4

Zacharias, Ravi and Geisler, Norman. eds. Is Your Church Ready? Motivating Leaders to Live an Apologetic Life. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-25061-7 

Zacharias, Ravi and Geisler, Norman. eds. Who Made God? And Answers to Over 100 Other Tough Questions of Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-24710-1

Zuck, Roy B. Vital Apologetic Issues: Examining Reason and Revelation in Biblical Perspective. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-4070-0

TH 114 – APOLOGETICS, OR DEFENDING THE FAITH, PART II (3 Program Units)

Select and read THREE books from the following list. Then summarize for yourself the ideas that seem most convincing. Summarize the case that can be made to unbelievers to argue that the Bible’s view of reality is correct.

Boice, James Montgomery. Standing on the Rock: Upholding Biblical Authority in a Secular Age. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2073-3

Brush, Nigel. The Limitations of Scientific Truth: Why Science Can’t Answer Life’s Ultimate Questions. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2253-9

Carson, D. A. ed. Telling the Truth: Evangelizing Postmoderns. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-24334-3

Carson, D. A. The Gagging of God: Christianity Confronts Pluralism. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-24286-X

Copan, Paul. That’s Just Your Interpretation: Responding to Skeptics Who Challenge Your Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. ISBN: 978-0-8010-6383-1

Craig, William Lane. Reasonable Faith. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0115-9

Dembski, William A. and Richards, Jay Wesley. Unapologetic Apologetics. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1563-0

Edgar, William. The Face of Truth: Lifting the Veil. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-178-9

Edgar, William. Reasons of the Heart: Recovering Christian Persuasions. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-595-4

Erickson, Millard J. The Postmodern World. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-342-7

Geivett, R. Douglas and Habermas, Gary R. In Defense of Miracles. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1528-9

Huffman, Douglas S. and Johnson, Eric L. God Under Fire: Modern Scholarship Reinvents God. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-23269-4

Komoszewski, J. Ed., Sawyer, M. James, and Wallace, Daniel B. Reinventing Jesus: How Contemporary Skeptics Miss the Real Jesus and Mislead Popular Culture. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2982-8

Lennox, John. God’s Undertaker: Has Science Buried God? Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-8254-6188-0

McGrath, Alister. Dawkin’s God. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 1-4051-2538-1

McLaren Brian D. More Ready Than You Realize: Evangelism as Dance in the Postmodern Matrix. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-23964-8

Ramsay, Richard B. The Certainty of the Faith: Apologetics in an Uncertain World. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-1-59638-065-3

Rhodes, Ron. The Challenge of the Cults and New Religions. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23217-1

Sire, James W. Why Good Arguments Often Fail. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3381-8

Sire, James W. Why Should Anyone Believe Anything at All? Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1397-1

Wilkins, Michael J. and Moreland, J. P. Jesus Under Fire: Modern Scholarship Reinvents the Historical Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996. ISBN: 0-310-21139-5

TH 117 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM APPROACHES TO HERMENEUTICS - PRINCIPLES FOR INTERPRETING THE BIBLE (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following books. Select at least one mainstream study of hermeneutics. Then think about how the conservative and mainstream academic worlds interpret the Bible with different principles.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Allen, Ronald J. Contemporary Biblical Interpretation for Preaching. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1002-7

Brown, Jeannine K. Scripture as Communication: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academics. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2788-8

Couch, Mal. An Introduction to Classical Evangelical Hermeneutics: A Guide to the History and Practice of Biblical Interpretation. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2367-3

Dockery, David S. Biblical Interpretation Then and Now: Contemporary Hermeneutics in the Light of the Early Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3010-9

Fairbairn, Patrick. Typology of Scripture: Two Volumes in One. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2643-8

Futato, Mark D. Interpreting the Psalms: An Exegetical Handbook. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2765-7

Goldsworthy, Graeme. Gospel-Centered Hermeneutics. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2839-5

Howard, David M. Jr. and Grisanti, Michael A. Giving the Sense: Understanding and Using Old Testament Historical Texts. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2892-0

Kaiser, Walter C. Jr. and Siva, Moisés. An Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics: The Search for Meaning. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1994. ISBN: 0-310-53090-3

Maier, Gerhard. Biblical Hermeneutics. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-767-1

McCartney, Dan and Clayton, Charles. Let the Reader Understand: A Guide to Interpreting and Applying the Bible. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-0-87552-516-7392

Osborne, Grant. The Hermeneutical Spiral. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2826-5

Poythress, Vern S. God-Centered Biblical Interpretation. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-0-87552-376-7

Stott, John R. W. Understanding the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1982. ISBN: 0-310-43431-3

Thomas, Robert L. ed. Evangelical Hermeneutics: The New Versus the Old. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3839-4

Vanhoozer, Kevin J. Is There a Meaning in This Text: The Bible, the Reader, and the Morality of Literary Knowledge. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN: 0-310-21156-5

Virkler, Henry A. and Ayayo, Karelynne Gerber. Hermeneutics. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3138-0

Williams, H. H. Drake III. Making Sense of the Bible: A Study of 10 Key Themes Traced Through the Scriptures. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-4107-3

Zimmermann, Jens. Recovering Theological Hermeneutics: An Incarnational-Trinitarian Theory of Interpretation. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos. ISBN: 978-1-58743-202-6

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Adam, A. K. M. Faithful Interpretation: Reading the Bible in a Postmodern World. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3787-3

Kuhn, Karl Allen. Having Words with God. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6280-6

Stuart, Douglas. Old Testament Exegesis. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230579

CHURCH HISTORY

CH 121 - HISTORICAL THEOLOGY AND CHURCH HISTORY (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following books. Then think through what the books teach you about the history of your own denominational tradition. Think about lessons that can be learned from these resources about the relationships between your denominational tradition and other denominations in your community.

Alister E. McGrath. Historical Theology: An Introduction to the History of Christian Thought.  Malden, MA: Blackwell, 1998. ISBN: 0-631-20844-5 

Anthony, Michael J. and Benson, Warren S. Exploring the History and Philosophy of Christian Education. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2023-8

Cairns, Earle E. Christianity through the Centuries. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996. ISBN: 0-310-20812-2

Edgar, William. Truth in All Its Glory: Commending the Reformed Faith. Phillipsburg: NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-794-9

Evans, G. R. The First Christian Theologians: An Introduction to Theology in the Early Church. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 0-631-23187-0

Gay, Laurie. Introducing Early Christianity. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2698-8

Heine, Ronald E. Reading the Old Testament with the Ancient Church: Exploring the Formation of Early Christian Thought. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2777-2

Hill, Clifford. The Wilberforce Connection. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-6072-2

House, H. Wayne. Charts on Patristic Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2772-5

Kane, J. Herbert. A Concise History of the Christian World Mission: A Panoramic View of Missions from Pentecost to the Present. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-5395-5

Lambert, Tony. China’s Christian Millions. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-6115-6

Lindberg, Carter. The Pietist Theologians: An Introduction to the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 0-631-23520-5

Needham, N. R. 2000 Years of Christ’s Power: Vol. 1, The Age of the Early Church. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-946462-49-6 (Grace Publications)

Needham, N. R. 2000 Years of Christ’s Power: Vol. 2, The Middle Ages. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-946462-59-6 (Grace Publications)

Needham, N. R. 2000 Years of Christ’s Power: Vol. 3, Renaissance and Reformation. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-94646-249-6 (Grace Publications)

Sweeney, Douglas A. The American Evangelical Story. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2658-4

Tomlin, Graham. Luther and His World. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2351-2

Torbet, Robert G. A History of the Baptists. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-0074-5

White, John. When the Spirit Comes with Power. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1222-6

Zachman, Randall C. John Calvin as Teacher, Pastor, and Theologian: The Shape of His Writings and Thought. Grand Rapids, I: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3129-8

PRACTICAL THEOLOGY

PT 130 - WORSHIP (3 Program Units)

Read THREE of the following books. Then think through how to apply the suggestions in the books for strengthening the worship in your congregation.

Abernethy, Alexis D. ed. Worship that Changes Lives: Multidisciplinary and Congregational Perspectives on Spiritual Transformation. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3194-6

Allen, Ronald B. And I Will Praise Him: A Guide to Worship in the Psalms. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2011-5

Bateman, Herbert W. IV. Authentic Worship: Hearing Scripture’s Voice, Applying Its Truths. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2092-5

Berglund, Brad. Reinventing Sunday: Breakthrough Ideas for Transforming Worship. Valley Forge, PA: ISBN: 978-0-8170-1414-8

Best, Harold. Unceasing Worship. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3229-3

Carson, D. A. Worship by the Book. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-21625-7

Chapell, Bryan. Christ-Centered Worship. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3640-8

Dyrness, William. A Primer on Christian Worship: Where We’ve Been, Where We Are, Where We Can Go. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans, ISBN: 978-0-8028-6038-5

Gore, R. J. Jr. Covenantal Worship: Reconsidering the Puritan Regulative Principle. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-562-8

Hart, D. G. and Muether, John R. With Reverence and Awe: Returning to the Basics of Reformed Worship. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-179-7

Howard, Donald W. Jr. Alone with Prayer: A Pastor’s Perspective. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 1005. ISBN: 0-7618-3267-X

Howard, Evan B. Praying the Scriptures. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2201-0

Johnson, Todd. The Conviction of Things Not Seen: Worship and Ministry in the 21^st Century. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos. ISBN: 978-58743-032-9

Kyper, Abraham. Our Worship. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans. ISBN: 978-0-8028-6393-5

Longman, Tremper III. Immanuel in Our Place: Seeing Christ in Israel’s Worship. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-651-9

McGrath, Alister E. Christian Spirituality: An Introduction. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 1999. ISBN: 0-631-21280-9

Miller, Calvin. The Path of Celtic Prayer. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3504-1

Muers, Rachel. Keeping God’s Silence: towards a Theological Ethics of Communication. Malden, MA: Blackwell, 2004. ISBN: 1-4051-1900-4

Ryken, Philip G, et al. Give Praise to God: A Vision for Reforming Worship: Celebrating the Legacy of James Montgomery Boice. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R ISBN: 0-87552-553-9

Schalk, Carl F. Music in Early Lutheranism. St. Louis, MO: Concordia.

Schultze, Quentin J. High-Tech Worship? Using Presentational Technologies Wisely. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. ISBN: 978-0-8010-6480-7

Sheer, Greg. The Art of Worship: A Musician’s Guide to Leading Modern Worship. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-6709-9

Sire, James W. Praying the Psalms of Jesus. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3508-9

Skoglund, John E. and Hall, Nancy E. A Manual of Worship, New Edition. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1184-0

Smith, James K. A. Desiring the Kingdom: Worship, Learning, and the Formation of Radical Disciples. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3577-7

Van Til, Cornelius. Worship in Spirit and Truth. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-242-4

Webber, Robert E. Ancient-Future Worship: Proclaiming and Enacting God’s Narrative. Grand Rapids,MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-6624-5

Willimon, William H. Word, Water, Wine, and Bread. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-0858-1

Zelensky, Elizabeth and Gilbert, Lela. Windows to Heaven: Introducing Icons to Protestants and Catholics. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos. ISBN: 978-1-58743-109-8

PT 131 - PREACHING (6 Program Units)

Select and read SIX of the following books. Many of these are rather short paperbacks. Then create a series of six sermons or lessons using ideas from each of the books that you select. If possible, ask someone to video tape the sermons or lectures. When watching the videos, look for areas where your delivery could be made more effective. Ask members of your congregation to view the tapes and critique them for you as well. Their suggestions may be more objective and informative than your own perspective.

Adams, Jay E. Preaching with Purpose: the Urgent Task of Homiletics. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1986. ISBN: 0-310-51091-0

Anderson, Kenton C. Preaching with Conviction: Connecting with Postmodern Listeners. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2020-7

Anderson, Kenton C. Preaching with Integrity. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2021-4

Arthurs, Jeffrey D. Preaching with Variety: How to Re-create the Dynamics of Biblical Genres. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2019-1

Borschel, Audrey. Preaching Prophetically When the News Disturbs: Interpreting the Media. St. Louis, MO: Chalice. ISBN: 978-08272-30095

Carter, Joe and Coleman, John. How to Argue Like Jesus. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0271-2

Clowney, Edmund P. Preaching and Biblical Theology. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-145-2

Clowney, Edmund P. Preaching Christ in All of Scripture. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-452-3

Ezell, Rick. Hitting a Moving Target: Preaching to the Changing Needs of Your Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2528-8

Gericke, Paul W. Prince of Preachers: The Apostle Paul. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2006. ISBN: 0-7618-3391-9

Johnson, Dennis E. Him We Proclaim: Preaching Christ from All the Scriptures. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-1-59638-054-7

Kaiser, Walter C. Jr. Preaching and Teaching from the Old Testament: A Guide for the Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2610-2

Kaiser, Walter C. Jr. The Majesty of God in the Old Testament: A Guide for Preaching and Teaching. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3244-8

Keach, Benjamin. Preaching from the Types and Metaphors of the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3008-4.

Kim, Eunjoo Mary. Preaching the Presence of God: A Homiletic from an Asian American Perspective. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1303-5

Lehman, Victor D. The Pastor’s Guide to Weddings and Funerals. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1392-9

Lewis, Ralph L. and Lewis, Gregg. Inductive Preaching. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-0-89107-287-4

MacArthur. John F. Ashamed of the Gospel. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-288-8

Malphurs, Aubrey. A Contemporary Handbook for Weddings & Funerals and Other Occasions. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3186-9

Malphurs, Aubrey. Developing a Dynamic Mission for Your Ministry: Finding Direction and Making an Impact as a Church Leader. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-825403189-0

Mathews, Alice P. Preaching that Speaks to Women. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2367-5

Mawhinney, Bruce. Preaching with Freshness. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3198-2

McMickle, Marvin A. Living Water for Thirsty Souls: Unleashing the Power of Exegetical Preaching. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1358-5

Montoya, Alex. Preaching with Passion. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 78-0-8254-3366-5

Overstreet, R. Larry. Biographical Preaching: Bringing Bible Characters to Life. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3470-9

Pasquarello, Michael III. Christian Preaching: A Trinitarian Theology of Proclamation. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2760-4

Proctor, Samuel D. The Certain Sound of the Trumpet: Crafting a Sermon of Authority. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1202-1

Robinson, Haddon W. Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2262-3

Robinson, Haddon. W. ed. Biblical Sermons: How Twelve Preachers Apply the Principles of Biblical Preaching. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-9044-8

Ryken, Leland and Wilson, Todd A. eds. Preaching the Word. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-926-9

Sunukjian, Donald R. Invitation to Biblical Preaching: Proclaiming Truth with Clarity and Relevance. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3666-6

Tibbetts, Orlando L. The Minister’s Handbook. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1088-1

Watley, William D. Bring the Full Tithe: Sermons on the Grace of Giving. Valley Forge, Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1230-4

Willhite, Keith. Preaching with Relevance without Dumbing Down. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-4114-1

PT 132 – EVANGELISM (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following books. Then think through the methods described in them that would be most useful for members of your congregation as they seek to lead people to Christ.

Baker, David W. ed. Biblical Faith and Other Religions: An Evangelical Assessment. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2026-9

Barrs, Jerram. The Heart of Evangelism. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-715-9

Bock, Darrell L. and Glaser, Mitchell. To the Jew First: The Case for Jewish Evangelism in Scripture and History. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3658-1

Chafer, Lewis Sperry. True Evangelism: Winning Souls through Prayer. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2384-0

Chamberlain, Paul. Talking about Good and Bad Without Getting Ugly. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 9780-0-8308-3268-2

Collins, John. The God of Miracles. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-141-6

Conn, Harvie M. Evangelism. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-206-8

Hexham, Irving et al, eds. Encountering New Religious Movements: A Holistic Evangelical Approach. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2893-7

Lewis, Gordon R. Confronting the Cults. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 087552-323-4

Little, Paul. How to Give Away Your Faith. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3406-8

Pierson, Robert D. Needs-Based Evangelism: Becoming a Good Samaritan Church. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-33248-9

Rainer, Thom S. Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23648-7

Rainer, Thom S. The Unchurched Next Door: Understanding Faith Stages as Keys to Sharing Your Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-24860-4

Reid, Alvin L. Radically Unchurched: Who They Are – How to Reach Them. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3633-8

Richardson, Rick. Reimagining Evangelism. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3342-9

Strobel, Lee. Inside the Mind of the Unchurched Harry & Mary: How to Reach Friends and Family Who Avoid God and the Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1993. ISBN: 0-310-37561-4

Webber, Robert E. Ancient-Future Evangelism: Making Your Church a Faith-Forming Community. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-9160-5

PT 133 – MISSIONS (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following studies. Then think through what the sources say about the history of missions. Try to get a feeling about what methods work and what methods do not work on the mission field. Then think about the kinds of mission work your own church should support.

Caner, Emir Fethi and Caner, Ergun Mehmet. More than a Prophet: An Insider’s Response to Muslim Beliefs about Jesus & Christianity. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2401-4

Dearborn, Tim. Short-Term Missions Workbook. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3233-0

Elass, Mateen. Understanding the Koran: A Quick Christian Guide to the Muslim Holy Book. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2004. ISBN: 0-310-24812-4

George, Timothy. Is the Father of Jesus the God of Muhammad? Understanding the Differences between Christianity and Islam. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-24748-9

Glenny, W. Edward and Smallman, William H. Missions in a New Millennium: Change and Challenges in World Missions. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2698-8

Hiebert, Paul G. Anthropological Insights for Missionaries. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-4291-1

Hiebert, Paul G. Anthropological Reflections on Missiological Issues. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-4394-9

Köstenberger, Andreas and O’Brien, Peter . Salvation to the Ends of the Earth. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2611-7

Ling, Samuel, and Bieler, Stacey. Eds. Chinese Intellectuals and the Gospel. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 1-892-63204-7

Musk, Bill. The Unseen Face of Islam: Sharing the Gospel with Ordinary Muslims at Street Level. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-825-6054-8

Musk, Bill. Touching the Soul of Islam: Sharing the Gospel in Muslim Cultures. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-6075-3

Piper, John. Let the Nations Be Glad! The Supremacy of God in Missions. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2613-3

Rheenem, Gailyn van. Missions: Biblical Foundations and Contemporary Strategies. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996. I SBN: 0-310-20809-2

Reid, Alvin L. Radically Unchurched: Who They Are – How to Reach Them. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3633-8

Rainer, Thom S. Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23648-7

Rainer, Thom S. The Unchurched Next Door: Understanding Faith Stages as Keys to Sharing Your Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-24860-4

Schnabel, Eckhard J. Paul the Missionary: Realities, Strategies and Methods. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8303-2887-6

Strobel, Lee. Inside the Mind of the Unchurched Harry & Mary: How to Reach Friends and Family Who Avoid God and the Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1993. ISBN: 0-310-37561-4

Tucker, Ruth A. From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya: A Biographical History of Christian Missions. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1983. ISBN: 0-310-45931-1

Webber, Robert E. Ancient-Future Evangelism: Making Your Church a Faith-Forming Community. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-9160-5

PT 134 - YOUTH MINISTRY (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following books. Then think through the ways that content from the books make improve the youth programs of your church. What do you think will give your young people a faith that can survive the pressures of the modern culture?

Arzola, Fernando Jr. Toward a Prophetic Youth Ministry: Theology and Praxis in Urban Context. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2802-9

Dean, Kenda Creasy, et al. Starting Right: Thinking Theologically about Youth Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23406-9

DeVries, Mark. Sustainable Youth Ministry: Why Most Youth Ministry Doesn’t Last and What Your Church Can Do About It. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3361-0

Fields, Doug. Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry: A Personal and Practical Guide to Starting Right. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-24045-X

Fields, Doug. Purpose-Driven Youth Ministry: 9 Essential Foundations for Healthy Growth. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998. ISBN: 0-310-21253-7

Jones, Tony. Postmodern Youth Ministry: Exploring Cultural Shift, Creating Holistic Connections, Cultivating Authentic Community. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23817-X

Jones, Tony. Soul Shaper: Exploring Spirituality and Contemplative Practices in Youth Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-25101-X

Kendall, Peggy. Rewired: Youth Ministry in an Age of IM and MySpace. Valley Forge, PA: Judson, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1513-8

Parrott, Les III. Helping the Struggling Adolescent: A Guide to Thirty-Six Common Problems for Counselors, Pastors, and Youth Workers. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2000. ISBN: 0-310-23407-7

Penner, Marv. Youth Worker’s Guide to Parent Ministry: A Practical Plan for Diffusing Conflict and Gaining Allies. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-24216-9

Root, Andrew. Revisiting Relational Youth Ministry. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8308-3488-4

Strommen, Merton, et al. Youth Ministry that Transforms: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Hopes, Frustrations, and Effectiveness of Today’s Youth Workers. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001. ISBN: 0-310-23820-X

Tolbert, La Verne. Keeping Your Kids Sexually Pure: A How-to Guide for Parents, Pastors, Youth Workers, and Teachers. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-23860-9

Tolbert, La Verne. Teaching Like Jesus: A Practical Guide to Christian Education in Your Church. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2000. ISBN: 0-310-22347-4

Watkins, Ralph C. et al. The Gospel Remix: Reaching the Hip Hop Generation. Valley Forge, PA: Judson, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1507-7

Yaconelli, Mike. The Core Realities of Youth Ministry: Nine Biblical Principles that Mark Healthy Youth Ministries. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2004. ISBN: 0-310-25513-9

PT 138 - CHURCH GROWTH (6 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following sources. Then think through the methods and ideas that they suggest. Evaluate whether they can help your congregation grow both spiritually and numerically.

Barrs, Jerram. The Heart of Evangelism. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-715-9

Campolo, Tony. Can Mainline Denominations Make a Comeback? Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1234-2

Chester, Tim and Timmis, Steve. Total Church: A Radical Reshaping around Gospel and Community. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0208-8

Conn, Harvie M. ed. Planting and Growing Urban Churches: From Dream to Reality. Grand Rapids, Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2109-1

Crandall, Ron. Turnaround and Beyond: A Hopeful Future for Small-Membership Churches. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-64699-9

Daman, Glenn C. Leading the Small Church: How to Develop a Transformational Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2447-2

Dever, Mark. Nine Marks of a Healthy Church. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-631

Dever, Mark and Alexander, Paul. The Deliberate Church. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-738-8

Drane, John. After McDonaldization: Mission, Ministry, and Christian Discipleship in an Age of Uncertainty. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3611-8

Driscoll, Mark and Breshears, Gerry. Vintage Church: Timeless Truths and Timely Methods. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0130-2

Easum, Bill and Bandy, Thomas G. Growing Spiritual Redwoods. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-33600-5

Gleason, Michael. Building on Living Stones: New Testament Patterns and Principles of Renewal. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2729-9

Howe, Leroy. A Pastor in Every Pew: Equipping Laity for Pastoral Care. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1366-0

Jackson, John. God-Size Your Church: Beyond Growth for Growth’s Sake. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-64909-9

Lawless, Chuck. Discipled Warriors: Growing Healthy Churches That Are Equipped for Spiritual Warfare. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3159-3

McIntosh, Gary L. and Reeves, R. Daniel. Thriving Churches in the Twenty-First Century. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3170-8

Malphurs, Aubrey. Strategy 2000: Churches Making Disciples for the Next Millennium. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3196-8

Malphurs, Aubrey and Malphurs, Michael S. Church Next: Using the Internet to Maximize Your Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3185-2

Middelmann, Udo W. The Market-Driven Church. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-509-4

Mittelberg, Mark. Building a Contagious Church: Revolutionizing the Way We View and Do Evangelism. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. ISBN: 0-310-25000-5

Mofitt, Bob and Tesch, Karla. If Jesus Were Mayor: How Your Local Church Can Transform Your Community. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-6129-3

Nixon, Paul. Fling Open the Doors: Giving the Church Away to the Community. Nashville, TN: Abingdon. ISBN: 978-0-687-04554-9

Parrish, Archie and Sproul, R. C. The Spirit of Revival. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0111-1

Radner, Ephraim. Hope among the Fragments: The Broken Church and Its Engagement of Scripture. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos. ISBN: 978-1-58743-084-8

Rediger, G. Lloyd. The Toxic Congregation: How to Heal the Soul of Your Church. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-33224-3

Reeder, Harry L. III and Gragg, Rod. The Leadership Dynamic: A Biblical Model for Raising Effective Leaders. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-943-6

Reeder, Harry L. III and Swavely, David. From Embers to a Flame: How God Can Revitalize Your Church. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R, 2004. ISBN: 0-87552-512-1

Reno, R. R. In the Ruins of the Church: Sustaining Faith in an Age of Diminished Christianity. Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos. ISBN: 978-1-58743-033-6

Reynolds, John Mark and Overton, Roger. eds. The New Media Frontier: Blogging, Vlogging, and Podcasting for Christ. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-4335-0211-8

Scazzero, Peter. The Emotionally Healthy Church: A Strategy for Discipleship that Actually Changes Lives. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-24654-7

Schaller, Lyle E. The Multiple Staff and the Larger Church. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press. ISBN: 978-0-687-27297-6

 Wilson, Stuart Thomas. Sketching a Scheme: A Friendship Model of Ministry as a Mediating Structure. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2005. ISBN: 0-7618-3223-8

Young, David S. A New Heart and a New Spirit: A Plan for Renewing Your Church. Valley Forge, PA: Judson. ISBN: 978-0-8170-1209-0

OLD TESTAMENT

OT 1411 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM STUDIES ABOUT OLD TESTAMENT

INTRODUCTION (3 Program Units)

Begin by reading the Old Testament section of Yahweh’s Song which is available on the BOOK STORE page of this web site. Yahweh’s Song will help you understand the broad movements and conflicts in the field. Then select and read carefully ONE of the following studies. Think about how the Old Testament is understood in different ways in the conservative and mainstream academic worlds.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Dillard, Raymond B. and Longman, Tremper III. An Introduction to the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1994. ISBN: 0-310-43250-2

Hamilton, Victor P. Handbook on the Historical Books. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3614-9

Harrison, R. K. Introduction to the Old Testament. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. ISBN: 978-1-56563-830-3

Hill, Andrew E. and Walton, John H. A Survey of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2000. ISBN: 978-0-310-28095-8

Hummel, Horace D. The Word Becoming Flesh: An Introduction to the Origin, Purpose, and Meaning of the Old Testament. St. Louis, MO: Concordia, 1979. ISBN: 0-570-03273-3

Kaiser, Walter C. Jr. The Old Testament Documents. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2778-7

Merrill, Eugene H. An Historical Survey of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-6283-4

Roehrs, Walter R. Survey of Covenant History: A Historical Overview of the Old Testament. St. Louis, MO: Concordia.

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Brueggemann, Walter. An Introduction to the Old Testament: The Canon and Christian Imagination. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664224127

Davies, Philip R. and Rogerson, John. The Old Testament World. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN:9780664230258

OT 1412 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM BATTLES ABOUT CREATION (3 Program Units)

Begin by reading the creation section of Yahweh’s Song which is available in the BOOK STORE section of this web page. Then select and read carefully THREE sources from the following list. Select one young earth book, one old earth book, and one mainstream book. Think about how each study views the Bible and the presuppositions that stand behind its conclusions.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Bohlin, Ray. ed. Creation, Evolution, and Modern Science. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2033-7

Bouteneff, Peter C. Beginnings: Ancient Christian Readings of the Biblical Creation Narratives. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3233-2

Campbell, Hiedi A. and Looy, Heather. Eds. A Science and Religion Primer. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3150-2

Collins, C. John. Science and Faith. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-430-1

Copan, Paul and Craig, William Lane. Creation Out of Nothing: A Biblical, Philosophical, and Scientific Exploration. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2733-8

Dembski, William A. Mere Creation. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1515-9

Fowler, Thomas B. and Kuebler, Daniel. The Evolution Controversy: A Survey of Competing Theories. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3174-8

Futato, Mark D. Creation: A Witness to the Wonder of God. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-203-3

Geisler, Norman. Creation and the Courts. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-836-1

Helm, David R. and Dennis, Jon M. The Genesis Factor. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. ISBN: 978-1-58134-285-7

House, H. Wayne. Intelligent Design 101: Leading Experts Explain the Key Issues. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2781-7

Johnson, Phillip E. Reason in the Balance. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1929-4

Johnson, Phillip E. The Wedge of Truth. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2395-6

Moreland, J. P. Three Views on Creation and Evolution. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1999. ISBN: 0-310-22017-3

Morris, Henry M. Evolution and the Modern Christian. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-0-87552-337-8

Morris, Henry M. and Whitcomb, John C. Genesis Flood. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 978-0-87552-338-5

Peters, Ted and Hewlett, Martinez. Evolution from Creation to New Creation: Conflict, Conversation, and Convergence. Nashville, TN: Abingdon. ISBN: 978-0-687-02374-5

Rehwinkel, Alfred M. The Flood. St. Louis, MO: Concordia.

Ross, Allen P. Creation and Blessing. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2107-7

Ross, Hugh. Why the Universe Is the Way It Is. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. ISBN: 978-0-8010-1304-1

Sarafati, Jonathan. Refuting Evolution. Brisbane, Australia: Answers in Genesis, 1999. ISBN: 0-89051-258-2

Sarafati, Jonathan. Refuting Evolution 2: What PBS and the Scientific Community Don’t Want You to Know. Green Forest, AR: Master Books, 2002. ISBN: 0-89051-387-2

Wilcox, David L. God and Evolution: A Faith-Based Understanding. Valley Forge, PA: ISBN: 978-0-8170-1474-2

Young, Edward J. Studies in Genesis One. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-550-4

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Ayala, Francisco J. Darwin and Intelligent Design. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3802-3

Coleman, Simon. The Cultures of Creationism: Anti-Evolutionism in English Speaking Countries. Burlington, VT: Ashgate, 2004. ISBN: 0-7546-0912-X

Domning, Daryl P. Original Selfishness: Original Sin and Evil in the Light of Evolution. Burlington, VT: Ashgate, 2006. ISBN: 0-7546-5315-3

Grigg, Richard. Beyond the God Delusion: How Radical Theology Harmonizes Science and Religion. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6272-1

Klapwijk, Jacob. Purpose in the Living World? Creation and Emergent Evolution. New York: Cambridge University Press. ISBN: 978-0-521-72943-7

Russell, Robert John. Cosmology: From Alpha to Omega. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6273-8

Southgate, Christopher. The Groaning of Creation: God, Evolution, and the Problem of Evil. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230906

Stewart, Robert B. ed. Intelligent Design: William A. Dembski and Michael Ruse in Dialogue. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6218-9

OT 147 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY (3 Program Units)

Begin by reading the Old Testament section of Yahweh’s Song which can be found at the BOOK STORE page of this web site. Yahweh’s Song will trace how the archaeological evidence is understood from different sets of presuppositions. Then select and read carefully THREE of the following studies. At least two of them should represent mainstream liberal positions. Then think through how the presuppositions of the authors lead them to interpret the evidence. While some mainstream studies are of very limited value, others can be quite helpful. For example, Mazar’s book is well worth reading.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Currid, John D. Doing Archaeology in the Land of the Bible: A Basic Guide. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2213-5

Free, Joseph and Vos, Howard. Archaeology and Bible History. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992. ISBN: 0-310-47961-4

Hoerth, Alfred J. Archaeology and the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3625-5

Hoerth, Alfred and McRay, John. Bible Archaeology: An Exploration of the History and Culture of Early Civilizations. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2005. ISBN: 0-8010-1287-2

Hoffmeier, James K. and Millard, Alan. eds. The Future of Biblical Archaeology: Reassessing Methodologies and Assumptions. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 2004. ISBN: 0-8028-2173-1

Kitchen, K. A. The Bible in its World: The Bible & Archaeology Today. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1977. ISBN: 0-87784-797-5

McRay, John. Archaeology and the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3608-8

Netzer, Ehud. The Architecture of Herod the Great Builder. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3612-5

Niehaus, Jeffrey J. Ancient Near Eastern Themes in Biblical Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3360-3

Reed, Jonathan L. Archaeology and the Galilean Jesus: A Re-examination of the Evidence. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press International. ISBN: 1-56338-324-1

Schoville, Keith N. Biblical Archaeology in Focus. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 1978. ISBN: 0-8010-8112-2

Thompson, J. A. The Bible and Archaeology. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 1982. ISBN: 0-8028-3545-7

Walton, John H. Ancient Near Eastern Thought and the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2750-5

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Aharoni, Yohanan. The Archaeology of the Land of Israel. Philadelphia, PA: Westminster, 1978. ISBN: 0-664-24430-0

Aharoni, Yohanan. The Land of the Bible: A Historical Geography. Philadelphia, PA: Westminster, 1979. ISBN: 0-664-24266-9

Boyd, Robert T. A Pictorial Guide to Biblical Archaeology: Tells Tombs and Treasure. New York: Bonanza Books, 1969.

Cornfeld, Gaalyah. Archaeology of the Bible: Book by Book. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1989. ISBN: 0-943575-28-1

Davies, Graham I. Cities of the Biblical World: Megiddo. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 1986. ISBN: 0-7188-2586-1

Finkelstein, Israel and Mazar, Amihai. The Quest for the Historical Israel: Debating Archaeology and the History of Early Israel. Leiden: Brill, 2007. ISBN: 978-90-04-15738-5

Freund, Richard A. Digging through the Bible: Understanding Biblical People, Places, and Controversies through Archaeology. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2008. ISBN: 978-0-7425-4644-8

Horn, Siegfried H. Biblical Archaeology: A Generation of Discovery. Washington D.C.: Biblical Archaeology Society, 1978. ISBN: 0-9613089-1-5

Kenyon, Kathleen M. The Bible and Recent Archaeology. Atlanta, GA: John Knox, 1978. ISBN: 0-8042-0010-6

Magnusson, Magnus. Archaeology of the Bible. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1977. ISBN: 0-671-24010-2

Marcus, Amy Dockser. The View from Nebo: How Archaeology is Rewriting the Bible and Reshaping the Middle East. Boston, MA: Little, Brown, 2000. ISBN: 0-316-56167-3

Mazar, Amihai. Archaeology of the Land of the Bible – 10,000-586 B.C.E. New York: Doubleday, 1990. ISBN: 0-385-42590-2

Renfrew, Colin and Bahn, Paul. Archaeology: Theories Methods and Practice. New York: Thames & Husdon, 2000. ISBN: 0-500-28147-5

Stern, Ephraim. Archaeology of the Land of the Bible, vol. II: The Assyrian, Babylonian, and Persian Periods (732-332 B.C.E.). New York: Doubleday, 2001. ISBN: 0-385-42450-7

Wright, G. Ernest. Biblical Archaeology. Philadelphia, PA: Westminster, 1957. ISBN: 0-664-20420-1

OT 148 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM OLD TESTAMENT EXEGETICAL STUDIES

Read at least THREE of the following studies. At least two of them should represent mainstream liberal positions. Then think through how the presuppositions of the authors lead them to interpret the evidence.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Chisholm, Robert B. Jr. Interpreting the Historical Books: An Exegetical Handbook. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2006. ISBN: 0-8254-2764-9

Dillard, Raymond B. Faith in the Face of Apostasy: The Gospel According to Elijah & Elisha. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R, 1999. ISBN: 0-87552-650-0

Dumbrell, William J. The Faith of Israel: A Theological Survey of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2002. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2532-7

Estes, Daniel J. Handbook on the Wisdom Books and Psalms. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2005. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2699-7

Kitchen, K. A. On the Reliability of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2003. ISBN: 978-0-8028-0396-2

Motyer, J. A. The Message of Judges: Grace Abounding. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1992. ISBN: 0-8308-1232-6

Niehaus, Jeffrey J. God at Sinai: Covenant & Theophany in the Bible and Ancient Near East. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1995. ISBN: 0-310-49471-0

Stailhamer, John H. The Pentateuch as Narrative. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992. ISBN: 0-310-57421-8

Wood, Leon. The Distressing Days of the Judges. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1975.

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Barton, John. The Nature of Biblical Criticism. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664225872

Brooks, Simcha Shalom. Saul and the Monarchy: A New Look. Burlington, VT: Ashgate. ISBN: 0-7546-5204-1

Clifford, Richard J. ed. Wisdom Literature in Mesopotamia and Israel. Atlanta, GA: Society of Biblical Literature, 2007. ISBN: 978-1-58983-219-0

Davies, Philip R. Memories of Ancient Israel: An Introduction to Biblical History – Ancient and Modern. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664232887

Gravett, Sandra L. et al. An Introduction to the Hebrew Bible: A Thematic Approach. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230302

Jong, Matthijs J. de. Isaiah among the Ancient Near Eastern Prophets: A Comparative Study of the Earliest Stages of the Isaiah Tradition and the Neo-Assyrian Prophecies. Leiden: Brill, 2007. ISBN: 978-90-04-16161-0

Kessler, Rainer. The Social History of Ancient Israel: An Introduction. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6282-0

Lemche, Niels Peter. The Old Testament between Theology and History: A Critical Survey. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664232450

Mills, Mary E. Joshua to Kings: History, Story, Theology. London: T. and T. Clark, 1999. ISBN: 0567040631.

Nissinen, Martti. Prophets and Prophecy in the Ancient Near East. Atlanta, GA: Society of Biblical Literature, 2003. ISBN: 1-58983-027-X

O’Brien, Julia M. Challenging Prophetic Metaphor: Theology and Ideology in the Prophets. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664229641

Shipp, R. Mark. Of Dead Kings and Dirges: Myth and Meaning in Isaiah 14:4b-21. Atlanta, GA: Society of Biblical Literature, 2002. ISBN: 1-58983-038-5

Thompson, Thomas L. Mythic Past: Biblical Archaeology and the Myth of Israel. New York: MJF Books, 1999. ISBN: 1-56731-704-9

Washington, Harold C. Wealth and Poverty in the Instruction of Amenemope and the Hebrew Proverbs. Atlanta, GA: Scholars, 1994. ISBN: 0-7885-0073-2

OT 149 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM STUDIES ABOUT OLD TESTAMENT THEOLOGY (3 Program Units)

Select and read carefully THREE of the following passages. Choose at least two books from the academic mainstream. Some of these make important points. Evaluate how the Bible is viewed from each perspective.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Dyrness, William A. Themes in Old Testament Theology. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-87784-726-7

Goldingay, John. Old Testament Theology, Volume One: Israel’s Gospel. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2561-5

Goldingay, John. Old Testament Theology, Volume Two: Israel’s Faith. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2562-2

House, Paul R. Old Testament Theology. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1523-4

Kaiser, Walter C. Jr. Mission in the Old Testament: Israel as a Light to the Nations. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2228-9

Merrill, Eugene H. Kingdom of Priests: A History of Old Testament Israel. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 978-0-8010-3199-1

Poythress, Vern S. The Shadows of Christ in the Law of Moses. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R, 1991. ISBN: 0-87552-375-7

Routledge, Robin. Old Testament Theology: A Thematic Approach. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2896-8

Williamson, Paul R. Sealed with an Oath. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2624-7

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Clifford, Richard J. The Cosmic Mountain in Canaan and the Old Testament. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1972. ISBN: 674-17425-9

Day, Linda and Pressler, Carolyn, eds. Engaging the Bible in a Gendered World: An Introduction to Feminist Biblical Interpretation in Honor of Katherine Doob Sakenfeld. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664229108

Mead, James K. Biblical Theology: Issues, Methods, and Themes. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664229726

Levenson, Jon D. Sinai & Zion: An Entry into the Jewish Bible. Minneapolis, MN: Winston, 1985. ISBN: 0-86683-961-5

Odock, Darrell, ed. Covenantal Conversations: Christians in Dialogue with Jews and Judaism. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6275-2

Ollenburger, Ben C. Old Testament Theology: Flowering and Future. Winona Lake, IN: Eisenbrauns, 2004. ISBN: 1-57506-096-5

Perdue, Leo G. Reconstructing Old Testament Theology after the Collapse of History. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress, 2005. ISBN: 0-8006-3716-X

NEW TESTAMENT

NT 151 - NEW TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION (3 Program Units)

Begin by reading carefully the New Testament section of Yahweh’s Song which is available on the RESOURCES page of this web page. Yahweh’s Song will help you understand the broad movements and conflicts in the field. Then select and read at least THREE of the following studies. At least two of these should represent mainstream (liberal) positions. Then think through how the presuppositions of the authors lead them to interpret the evidence.

Barnett, Paul. Is the New Testament Reliable? Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8303-2768-8

Carson, D. A. et al. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992. ISBN: 0-310-51940-3

deSilva, David A. An Introduction to the New Testament. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2746-6

Franzmann, Martin H. The Word of the Lord Grows: An Introduction to the Origin, Purpose, and Meaning of the New Testament. St. Louis, MO: Concordia, 1961. ISBN: 0-570-03848-0

Gromacki, Robert G. New Testament Survey. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-3626-2

Gundry, Robert H. A Survey of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003. ISBN: 0-310-23825-0

Guthrie, Donald. New Testament Introduction. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 1990.

Powell, Mark Allan. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2868-7

Schreiner, Thomas R. New Testament Theology: Magnifying God in Christ. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2680-5

Thiessen, Henry Clarence. Introduction to the New Testament. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2002. ISBN: 1-56563-724-0

Witherington, Ben III. New Testament History: A Narrative Account. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0-8010-2769-7

NT 156 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM VIEWS OF THE GOSPELS (3 Program Units)

Read at least THREE of the following studies. At least two of them should represent mainstream liberal positions. Then think through how the presuppositions of the authors lead them to interpret the evidence.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Bailey, Kenneth E. Finding the Lost Cultural Keys to Luke 15. St. Louis, MO: Concordia.

Bailey, Kenneth E. Jacob & the Prodigal. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2727-5

Bailey, Kenneth E. Poet & Peasant and Through Peasant Eyes: A Literary-Cultural Approach to the Parables in Luke. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1983. ISBN: 0-8020-1947-8

Bauckham, Richard. Jesus and the Eyewitnesses. Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans, 2006.

Barnett, Paul. Jesus and the Logic of History. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2603-2

Black, David Alan. Why Four Gospels? The Historical Origins of the Gospels. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-2070-2

Bruggen, Jakob van. Paul: Pioneer for Israel’s Messiah. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-648-9

Duriez, Colin. AD 33. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1623-1

Kiehl, Erich H. The Passion of Our Lord. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 1990. ISBN: 0-8010-5286-6

Köstenberger, Andreas J. Father, Son and Spirit. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2625-4

Marshall, I. Howard. Luke: Historian & Theologian. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1513-5

Scharlemann, Martin H. Proclaiming the Parables. St. Louis, MO: Concordia.

Scroggie, W. Graham. A Guide to the Gospels. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3744-1

Wenham, David. The Parables of Jesus. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1286-8

Wright, N. T. The Challenge of Jesus. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2200-3

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Barr, David L. Reading the Book of Revelation: A Resource for Students. Atlanta, GA: Society of Biblical Literature, 2003. ISBN: 1-58983-056-3

Campbell, William Sanger. The “We” Passages in the Acts of the Apostles: The Narrator as Narrative Character. Leiden: Brill, 2007. ISBN: 978-90-04-14676-1

Fortna, Robert T. The Fourth Gospel and its Predecessor: From Narrative Source to Present Gospel. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6201-1

Herzog, William R. II. Prophet and Teacher: An Introduction to the Historical Jesus. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664225285

Kysar, Robert. John, the Maverick Gospel. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox. ISBN: 9780664230562

McFague, Sallie. Speaking in Parables: A Study in Metaphor and Theology. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-1097-5

Stegemann, Wolfgang, et al, eds. The Social Setting of Jesus and the Gospels. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress, 2002. ISBN: 0-8006-3452-7

Zetterholm, Magnus. ed. The Messiah in Early Judaism and Christianity. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-2108-7

NT 157 – UNDERSTANDING CONSERVATIVE AND MAINSTREAM VIEWS OF PAULINE STUDIES (3 Program Units)

Read at least THREE of the following studies. At least two of them should represent mainstream liberal positions. Then think through how the presuppositions of the authors lead them to interpret the evidence.

CONSERVATIVE STUDIES

Capes, David B. et al. Rediscovering Paul. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2598-1

Dodd, Brian J. The Problem with Paul. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1871-6

Gaffin, Richard B. Jr. Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul’s Soteriology. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R. ISBN: 0-87552-271-8

Hawthorne, Gerald F. et al, eds. Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1778-8

Ramsay, William M. St. Paul the Traveler and Roman Citizen. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel. ISBN: 978-0-8254-3639-0

Richards, E. Randolf. Paul and First-Century Letter Writing. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2788-6

Schreiner, Thomas R. Paul, Apostle of God’s Glory in Christ. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2825-8

Strom, Mark. Reframing Paul. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1570-8

Thielman, Frank. Paul & the Law. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-1854-9

Walsh, Brian J. and Keesmaat, Sylvia C. Colossians Remixed. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8303-2738-1

Witherton, Ben III. The Paul Quest. Downers Grove, IL: IVP. ISBN: 978-0-8308-2660-5

MAINSTREAM (LIBERAL) STUDIES

Brondos, David A. Paul on the Cross: Reconstructing the Apostle’s Story of Redemption. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3788-0

Das, A Andrew. Solving the Romans Debate. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3860-3

Elliott, Neil. The Arrogance of Nations: Reading Romans in the Shadow of Empire. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3844-3

Elliott, Neil. Liberating Paul: The Justice of God and the Politics of the Apostle. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-2379-1

Hock, Ronald F. The Social Context of Paul’s Ministry: Tentmaking and Apostleship. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6204-2

Koester, Helmut. Paul and His World: Interpreting the New Testament in its Context. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3890-0

Lopez, Davina C. Apostle to the Conquered: Reimagining Paul’s Mission. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-6281-3

Malherbe, Abraham J. Paul and the Popular Philosophers. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3852-8

Porter, Stanley E. ed. Paul and His Theology. Leiden: Brill, 2006. ISBN: 978-90-04-15408-7

Wright, N. T. Paul. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. ISBN: 978-0-8006-3766-8

Copyright © 2009 Dr. Rodger Dalman
Last modified: 08/11/09