Dr. Tim Chester is involved in The Crowded House, a church planting initiative in Sheffield, UK. He was previously Research & Policy Director for Tearfund UK, and has been published widely on prayer, mission, social issues, and theology. His writing delves into profound questions of faith and its application to social realities.
In this brief and winsome book, Michael Reeves presents an introduction to the Christian faith that is rooted in the triune God. He takes cues from preachers and teachers down through the ages, setting key doctrines of creation, the person and work of Christ, and life in the Spirit into a simple framework of the Christian life.
Pornography is everywhere. Far too many Christians regularly use and are addicted to it, warping their perception of sexuality and relationships, destroying marriages and ministries. But Christians who struggle with porn also long for change. When we realize the unfulfilling emptiness of porn, we come to yearn for freedom from it. But what do we do? Tim Chester says that we can be captured by a better vision--a liberating confidence that God offers more than pornography does. Moving beyond pat answers or mere willpower, Chester offers spiritual, practical and corporate resources for living porn free. He exposes the false promises of porn and redirects us to the true promises of God. With assurance of God's grace and cleansing power, we can change our desires and escape the traps and temptations of pornography. However great the challenge, God's grace is even greater. And we can come to a place where we no longer feel the need to use porn. Close the window on porn. And open the door to freedom, integrity and new life.
In many ways, Easter is supposed to be the high-point of the year for Christians, where we remember the three days that changed history for ever. But for many of us, the day quickly comes and goes without us really feeling any different. Yet for centuries Christians around the world have marked the season of Lentthe forty days leading up to Easteras a way of reflecting on their need for forgiveness and anticipating Christ's work on the cross. These daily readings present deep theology in a concise and understandable way, allowing you to soak up the real meaning of Christ's death and resurrection. Each week, you'll read through one or two chapters of John's Gospel. The Sunday reading provides an introduction to the passage as a whole, while the rest of the week's reflections work through it in smaller sections. A carefully selected prayerdrawn from the rich work of writers throughout church historyis included each day. So this Lent, prepare your heart with 47 days of short and st
This introduction to Spurgeon's life and ministry--organized around themes such as the centrality of Christ and the empowerment of the Spirit--will encourage readers to live for God's glory.
In this addition to the Union series, Daniel Hames and Michael Reeves argue that an individual's relationship with God influences their evangelism and missions more than anything else.
In this book, Michael Reeves calls believers to see God as the object of their fear--a fear marked not by anxiety but by reverence and awe.
This book argues from Scripture that godly fear is the opposite of being afraid of God or his punishment, as if he were a tyrant. Instead, it is the intensity of the saints' love for, delight in, and enjoyment of all that God is.
Shows how this foundational book foreshadows Christ, points to the new creation, and calls us to radical discipleship.
A workbook exploring what a true gospel ministry might look like.
Discover the key to enjoying God in every moment of every day
Exploring the theme of divine revelation, this book presents seven insightful studies that delve into the ways Jesus communicated with and revealed himself to his followers. Each study examines different aspects of his teachings and interactions, providing a deeper understanding of his message and its significance for his people. The work encourages readers to reflect on their own faith journeys in light of Jesus' revelations.
Embark on a transformative Advent journey that delves into the core of the Gospel message, guiding you in preparation for Christmas. This book offers reflections and insights that inspire spiritual growth and deepen your understanding of the season's significance. Through thoughtful exploration, it invites readers to connect with the essence of the Christmas story and foster a meaningful celebration.
This guide offers an in-depth exploration of 2 Samuel, making it suitable for personal devotion, teaching, or preaching. It provides insights and interpretations that enhance understanding of the text, helping readers to engage with the themes and narratives of the book effectively. Ideal for both individual study and group settings, it serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their biblical knowledge and apply its lessons in various contexts.
A Biblical Case for the Importance and Goodness of Being “Evangelical” The term evangelical is often poorly defined and frequently comes with cultural and political baggage. As the label has become more controversial, many Christians have begun to wonder if they should abandon it altogether. Michael Reeves argues from a global, scriptural, and historical perspective that, while it’s not necessary to discard the label altogether, Christians must return to the root of the term―the evangel , or “gospel”―in order to understand what it truly means. He identifies the theology of evangelicalism and its essential doctrine―the Father’s revelation in the Bible, the Son’s redemption in the gospel, and the Spirit’s regeneration of the heart―calling believers to stand with integrity as people of the gospel.
Many books are written by experts. This book isn't one of them, ' admits Tim Chester. 'It was written out of my own struggle to change. My long battle with particular issues set me searching the Bible as well as writings from the past. This book shares the amazing truths I discovered that now give me hope. 'For years I wondered if I'd ever overcome certain sins. And while I can't claim to have conquered sin - for no one ever can do - here are discoveries that have led to change in my life and in the lives of others.' You may be: A new Christian, struggling to change the habits of your former way of life. An older Christian, feeling you've plateaued: you grew quickly when you first believed but now your Christian life is much of a muchness. A Christian who's fallen into sin in a big way, wondering how you'll ever get back on track. Other books describe how we should live, but this book outlines how we can change. It's about hope: the hope we have in Jesus, hope for forgiveness, and hope for real and lasting change. God promises liberating grace and transforming power to his people.
This collection offers daily devotions and prayers from renowned Christian authors, encouraging reflection on Jesus as Easter approaches. Each entry is designed to inspire spiritual growth and deepen the reader's faith through thoughtful insights and meditative practices drawn from historical Christian thought.
Join Tim Chester for the latest in the groundbreaking, bestselling God's Word For You book. Titus For You will help you get to grips with this short, powerful letter, showing how it transforms our hearts and lives today. Tim Chester's renowned gifts for making the complex clear, the truth applied and the gospel shine brightly mean this book will take you to the pages of the Bible to engage your mind and stir your heart.Written for people of every age and stage, from new believers to pastors and teachers, this flexible resource is for you to:READ: As a guide to this wonderful letter, exciting and equipping you to live out the truth in your life.FEED: As a daily devotional to help you grow in Christ as you read and meditate on this portion of God's word.LEAD: As notes to aid you in explaining, illustrating and applying Titus as you preach or lead a Bible study.Whoever you are, and however you use it, this is... Titus For You
"For Timothy Chester, an understanding of prayer begins with an understanding of the doctrine of God. The prayer of faith, as represented in the Scriptures, is a trinitarian experience - to God through Christ in the Spirit." "Here we see prayer as practiced by the patriarchs, apostles and ordinary people in the community of faith. We find that in prayer our ancestors faced similar struggles to ours, and we take guidance from their examples. In the end, the message of prayer is that to be people of prayer is to be people of the Book, and to be people of the Book is to be people of prayer."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Exploring the transformative power of the gospel, this book presents five insightful studies that illustrate its impact on personal lives, church communities, and broader missions. Each study delves into different aspects of how embracing the gospel can lead to meaningful change and growth, providing readers with practical applications and deeper understanding. Ideal for individuals and groups seeking to enrich their faith journey and community engagement.
Featuring eight captivating dragon myths from diverse cultures including China, Greece, Japan, England, Iceland, and America, this beautifully illustrated book delves into the significance of these tales. It explores the reasons behind the enduring fascination with dragons and the universal themes they represent across different societies. Each myth not only entertains but also sheds light on cultural values and beliefs, making it a rich resource for understanding the role of storytelling in human history.
This guide offers an in-depth exploration of 1 Samuel, delving into the significant events and themes of Israel's history during this period. It aims to provide readers with a thorough understanding of the narrative, characters, and theological insights, making it a valuable resource for both personal study and group discussions. The focus is on unpacking the text to reveal its relevance and application to contemporary faith and life.
"Reading this book was a profoundly moving experience."--Derek W. H. Thomas, Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina; author, Let's Study Revelation and Let's Study GalatiansJohn Stott was a twentieth-century pastor-theologian widely hailed for his heart for missions and expository preaching. Even today, Stott's legacy continues to influence churches around the world. As both a faithful preacher and a thoughtful writer, Stott profoundly shaped evangelicalism's contemporary understanding of Christianity through an approach to the Christian life founded on the word, shaped by the cross, and characterized by the pursuit of Christlikeness in every area of life. Tim Chester invites a new generation of readers to experience the Christian life as John Stott envisioned it--not simply a theological puzzle to be solved, but the daily practice of humble service and compassion found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
This study guide on Christian marriage focuses on how the Gospel shapes the practical realities of everyday life. Author Tim Chester lifts the lid on many of the common pressure points that modern couples face, and shows how a proper understanding of the Gospel can shape a response.
Few books of the Bible seem scarier than Ezekiel 48 chapters of weird and wonderful visions, bizarre street performances and blood-curdling judgements. Perhaps youve wondered what its all about. But, will you ever have the time to study such a large book? Does this stuff really have anything to say to you?Here is a Bible-study course that will take you through the whole of Ezekiel in SIX sessions! This whistle-stop tour gives a clear overview of all the main themes of Ezekiels prophecy Gods glory, judgement, and hope focusing on key passages that explain the surrounding chapters. But more than that, youll discover how Gods Word to His exiled people is truly fulfilled in the gospel of Jesus and the experience of Christians.Then they will know that I am the Lord is the repeated message of Ezekiel. In a world of false hopes that will ultimately fail, this is a message for everyone.
Exploring love, temptation, fear and guilt from the PsalmsHow often do you get the tune of a mindless song stuck in your head? Its one way that Christians can end up thinking and wanting things just like the world around us. So God has given us a collection of songs that can help us re-tune our hearts to what He thinks and wants instead.You may feel as if your soul is downcast or sick troubled by worry, sin, suffering, fear or guilt. David, the Israelite king who wrote many of these songs, tells us that the Word of God revives the soul its powerful stuff! And how to revive your soul is the theme of this selection. Mostly written by people rolling in trouble, they take us from the problems we face, and turn us back to God, the rock.In these psalms you will find medicine for your soul. Learn to fear God instead of others, to trust Him in difficult times and to sing a new song to the God who saves.
Embark on a transformative Advent journey that delves into the core of the Gospel message, guiding readers through reflections and insights as they prepare for the Christmas season. This book offers inspiration and spiritual depth, encouraging a meaningful connection to the true essence of the holiday.
The book offers daily reflections centered on the transfiguration of Jesus, inviting readers to contemplate His divine glory as Easter approaches. Each reflection aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of this pivotal event in the Christian faith, encouraging a spiritual journey that enhances the Easter experience.
The book presents seven in-depth studies that explore the significance of the Lord's Prayer, offering insights on how it can influence contemporary prayer practices and everyday living. Each study delves into different aspects of the prayer, encouraging readers to reflect on its teachings and apply its principles to their spiritual journey.
These studies take you on a journey of discovery as the disciples learn who Jesus really is.
"Church is not a meeting you attend or a place you enter," write pastors Tim Chester and Steve Timmis. "It's an identity that is ours in Christ. An identity that shapes the whole of life so that life and mission become 'total church.'" With that as their premise, they emphasize two overarching principles to govern the practice of church and being gospel-centered and being community-centered. When these principles take precedence, say the authors, the truth of the Word is upheld, the mission of the gospel is carried out, and the priority of relationships is practiced in radical ways. The church becomes not just another commitment to juggle but a 24/7 lifestyle where programs, big events, and teaching from one person take a backseat to sharing lives, reaching out, and learning about God together.In Total Church, Chester and Timmis first outline the biblical case for making gospel and community central and then apply this dual focus to evangelism, social involvement, church planting, world missions, discipleship, pastoral care, spirituality, theology, apologetics, youth and children's work. As this insightful book calls the body of Christ to rethink its perspective and practice of church, it charts a middle path between the emerging church movement and conservative evangelicalism that all believers will find helpful.
Six Studies for Individuals or Groups
The six Bible studies delve into Zechariah's uplifting message, aimed at providing hope and encouragement to God's disheartened followers. Each study explores the themes of reassurance and revitalization, helping readers connect with the text's significance in their own lives.
This guide offers a detailed exploration of the Book of Isaiah, providing insights into its themes, historical context, and theological significance. It aims to enhance understanding through structured study, encouraging readers to engage deeply with the text. The guide includes questions and reflections that facilitate personal and group discussions, making it a valuable resource for both individual study and communal learning.
Daily advent readings from John chapter 1 offer inspiration and reflection in the lead-up to Christmas. Each reading is designed to deepen your understanding of the season's significance, focusing on themes of hope, light, and the divine nature of Christ. These contemplative passages encourage readers to engage spiritually and prepare their hearts for the celebration of Christmas.
90-day undated devotional of readings from classic authors throughout church history - Gregory the Great, Richard Sibbes, Hudson Taylor, Charles Spurgeon The Song of Songs paints in our imaginations a physical place where we may spend time with Christ and enjoy his love. The language of human love is intended to evoke an experience of divine love and inspire in us a response of love. It channels our desires to their true end, our Creator and Redeemer. In this 90-day undated devotional Tim Chester has curated a selection of writings from classic authors such as Gregory the Great, Richard Sibbes, Hudson Taylor, Charles Spurgeon, and many others, that will help readers to know Christ's love better. Spend 90 days in the company of these heroes of the faith and pin your affection on the one who is their Bridegroom and yours. There is commentary on each verse of the Song, with perspectives from a couple of different authors on some verses. Chester has included a thought-provoking question with each reading to help you apply it to your own heart.
Four Studies for Individuals or Groups
The book explores the transformative power of faith, emphasizing how God can change our life circumstances from scarcity to abundance. Through personal experiences and biblical teachings, it illustrates the journey of encountering Jesus and recognizing His ability to work miracles in our lives, turning moments of struggle into opportunities for growth and blessing.
A simple guide to what we really know about angels Nearly eight in ten Americans believe in angels. Even among those who never attend church it’s four out of ten. In the United Kingdom one in three people believe they have a guardian angel. You may well be one of them. Every tenth person in your street or workplace thinks they may have seen or heard an angel in some way. Books telling the story of angelic encounters are best sellers. Despite the widespread rejection of Christianity in our culture, many people are still fascinated by angels. But what we can know for sure about angels? Are we dependant on second–hand accounts? Are we left with conjecture and guess work? This book goes back to the most reliable source we have for information about angels – God Himself speaking through the Bible. Tim Chester delves into the mysterious world of angels and shows us what the Bible says about what angels are, what they do, and where they lead us.
Eine überraschend gute Nachricht
Angst ist wahrscheinlich die stärkste menschliche Emotion – aber auch eine, die uns vor ein Rätsel stellt. Ist Angst in der Bibel nun etwas Gutes oder etwas Schlechtes? Und was bedeutet es, „den Herrn zu fürchten“? Michael Reeves lichtet die Wolken der Verwirrung und zeigt, dass Gottesfurcht nichts Negatives ist, sondern ein freudiges Staunen über den herrlichen Gott, unseren Schöpfer und Erlöser.
Comment le baptême et la sainte cène façonnent nos vies
Tim Chester en Steve Timmis gaan terug naar de basis als het gaat om kerk-zijn. Aan de hand van een aantal principes proberen zij te ontdekken hoe een gemeente die het Evangelie centraal stelt er in de praktijk uit zou moeten zien. Het boek bestaat uit drie delen: evangelisatie heeft prioriteit, mensen krijgen prioriteit en het belang van de gemeenschap. In hun voorwoord schrijven de auteurs: 'Veel kerken zijn in meerdere of mindere mate in de val gelopen van de acceptatie en instandhouding van eigen christelijke tradities. Ze zijn er niet in geslaagd om in beweging te blijven en open te staan voor verandering die de zaak van het Evangelie dient. (...)Veel gemeenten hebben, om wat voor reden dan ook, de kern uit het oog verloren.' In het boek worden vragen gesteld die leiden naar een goede doordenking van Gods bedoeling en naar nieuwe keuzes. Het is zeker ook geschikt voor groepsbespreking in het kader van gemeente-opbouw.
Autoři pocházejí z Evropy, proto je nám kontext knihy velmi blízký a srozumitelný. Timmis a Chester radikálním způsobem doplňují zažitou tradici evangelikální církve, z níž se v naší praxi a myšlení postupně začal vytrácet podstatný prvek evangelia, kterým je misie. Kniha je praktická a přitom odborně napsaná. Nejde o naivní „plácnutí do vody“, ale o nastolení zásadní diskuse reagující na dnešní situaci v Evropě, posun kultury a nemohoucnost zaběhlých modelů vyrovnat se s touto změnou.
Reformácia má stále význam aj dnes. V roku 1517 nemecký mních zverejnil svoje námietky voči kľúčovým doktrínam katolíckej cirkvi, čím spustil hnutie, ktoré zásadne zmenilo cirkev. Autori Michael Reeves a Tim Chester sa v tejto knihe zaoberajú jedenástimi oblasťami, ktoré boli dôležité pre Reformátorov a sú relevantné aj dnes. Tieto oblasti zahŕňajú ospravedlnenie, Písmo, hriech, milosť, teológiu kríža, zjednotenie s Kristom, Ducha, sviatosti, cirkev, každodenný život, radosť a slávu. Reeves je prezident a profesor teológie na Union School of Theology v Oxforde a ordinovaný pastor anglikánskej cirkvi. Chester je pastor Grace Church v Broughbridge a učiteľ v ACTS29 Oak Hill Academy. Obaja autori prispeli k päťstému výročiu Reformácie, jasne prezentujúc učenie hlavných Reformátorov o Ježišovi, Božej milosti a iných dôležitých témach. Ich dielo zdôrazňuje význam, ktorý mal Martin Luther a ostatní Reformátori, a jeho pokračujúcu relevanciu. Kniha, hoci má len 180 strán, je plná života a ponúka jasné a priamočiare vysvetlenie dôležitosti Reformácie.
Veľa kníh sa snaží pomáhať rodičom, aby vychovali deti dobre pripravené a zrelé pre život. Ale táto kniha sa zameriava na celé rodiny, aby v nich vyrastali veriaci ľudia – spoločne, deti aj rodičia, ktorí poznávajú Boha, vyznávajú Krista, prijímajú milosť, majú srdce služobníka a sú misijne založení. Nejde o to, ako evanjelium zapadá do života rodiny, ale ako život rodiny zapadá do evanjelia – do najväčšieho Božieho zámeru pre celý vesmír, ktorý bol dosiahnutý v Kristovi. Evanjelium v centre rodiny nás v dvanástich stručných kapitolách prevedie hlavnými biblickými princípmi pre rodinný život; postaví pred nás výzvu, aby sme sa vzdali „úctyhodných“ modiel, ktoré sú typické pre strednú triedu, a stali sa výrazne odlišnými ľuďmi, takými, akými nás Boh povolal byť skrze svoje evanjelium.
