BOOKSTORE
The books and resources listed here are recommended reading from Pastor Jim & Jeanne. We have entered into an affiliate relationship with Christianbook.com that offers you the best pricing on books, music, gifts and resources while at the same time benefitting the church with a 6% return on any items purchased through AshlandNaz.org. If you would like an item not listed, just begin by clicking one of the items below and then search the Christianbook.com website. As long as you go through our site, we'll still get the credit. Let us know if you have a recommendation so we can list it here before you buy!
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Pastor Jim's Reading Recommendations:
The Word on Finances by Larry Burkett. This book was recommended during the message Facing Financial Fears. The book categorizes scriptures that deal with financial issues. I believe you will find it very helpful in making financial decisions.
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. A life-changing book. Our church just finished reading this book together and it has transformed us. I highly recommend it. Buy several copies so you can give them away!
The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren. This book has had a profound impact on the way church is being done today. Pastor Warren has articulated a biblical model that provides today's church with health instead of programs... a reason for existing other than to keep the doors open! Pastor Jim is using the Purpose Driven church as a biblical model for our church.
The Bait of Satan by Rick Bevere. I have considered buying this book for every new member when they join the church. I think a careful read could save the church all kinds of problems! Description: Are you ensnared by bitterness, seized by anger, held captive by resentment because someone has offended you? Bevere exposes the deceptive trap of offense to help you escape Satan's grip and remain free in the Lord. Discover how to avoid a victim mentality, practice forgiveness, and experience reconciliation with your brother or sister in Christ. 181 pages, softcover from Creation House.
Roaring Lambs by Bob Briner. This book made me look at my world and culture in a different light. Why be afraid of it when we can USE it to change our world? Description: "Despite all the fancy buildings, sophisticated programs, and highly visible presence, it is my contention that the church is almost a non-entity when it comes to shaping culture. In the arts, entertainment, media, education and other culture-shaping venues of our country, the church has abdicated its role as salt and light."
Bob Briner wrote Roaring Lambs for one reason. He wanted to the church begin to shape culture instead of being shaped by it. And many Christian artists have heeded that call, including Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Steve Taylor, Sixpence None the Richer, and others. For those who wish to engage our culture, and to shape it with the good news of God, this book is a must read.
The Marriage Masterpiece by Al Janssen. Pastor Jim & Jeanne used this book to guide numerous Marriage Matters sessions for couples at Ashland Naz. Description: Whatever happened to happily ever after? As divorce rates climb, many couples, including Christians, question the role of marriage and its "lifetime" commitment. Focus on the Family's marriage book of the year looks at God's intent for marriage, offers scriptural answers as to why it's still relevant, and relates it to couples today. 250 pages, hardcover from Focus on the Family.
The MESSAGE, The Bible in Contemporary Language-- This translation/ paraphrase of the Bible by Eugene Peterson is finally out with ALL 66 BOOKS! Description: Over seven million people have enjoyed The Message - New Testament, and have been eagerly awaiting the day when Eugene Peterson would complete the Old Testament, and release the entire Bible in his unique translational-paraphrase. Well, the wait is nearly over!
Translated directly from the ancient Hebrew and Greek texts into today's contemporary American idiomatic speech, The Message is designed as a reading Bible. With no verse numbers or stiff, formal language, the Scriptures unfold like a gripping novel. Passages we've read many times before come alive, revealing the vibrant energy and passion of God's Word.
Although translated by only one man and not by committee, the paraphrase is reviewed by theologians who validate the accuracy of Eugene's translation from the ancient Greek and Hebrew texts of the Bible.
Coffee Shop Theology: Translating Doctrinal Jargon Into Everyday Life by Frank Moore. This is a great book for getting down to the basic understanding of our most important beliefs. A great gift for someone new to the faith, or a good read to brush up on what it is we believe. Description: Ever heard phrases like "the immanence and transcendence of God" or "general and special revelation" and wondered what they really meant? Do you have a sense that they are important issues, but are not sure what they mean in everyday life? Dr. Frank Moore's book Coffee Shop Theology will help. He sat down to describe theology in simpler terms so that everyone could understand and apply it in their lives. The result is an easy to read and understand book which will strengthen your faith and increase your confidence.
More Coffee Shop Theology by Frank Moore. Description: What are the negitive aspects of today's proliferation of information? Well, one serious consequence is that rapidly changing cultural standards are encouraging us to bargain away our beliefs. Everyone's ideas claim validity as possible answers to our most pressing questions, and absolute truth evaporates like the morning dew. Today, more than ever, Christans must know what we belive and why. Here is a readable, understandable book that explains theological concepts and brings them into focus for everyday living. In this sequel to Coffee Shop Theology, More Coffee Shop Theology once again covers a wide array of theological concepts and brings them by "digestable" handfuls into your living room. Don't be turned off by the word "theology". Dr. Moore has left all the big words in the fat books!
How to Stay Christian in College by J. Budziszewski. This is a must for the student getting ready to head off to college. They will hear a lot of arguments that sound oh so logical... this book helps the student reason through the questions and find faith. Description: If you're sending your teenagers to a secular college, this guide is crucial. It not only lets them know what to expect, but reassures them that they can attend a secular school and still maintain their faith. Interactive and encouraging, it covers everything from differing worldviews to myths about sex to coping with campus life. 143 pages, softcover from NavPress.
Halftime by Bob Buford. Description: Midlife. It doesn't need to be a time of crisis---turn it into a catalyst! Buford uses personal insight, true-life examples, and inspiring quotes to help you propel your life on a new course from mere success to true significance---and the best years of your life. "Read it and finish strong!"---Max Lucado. 192 pages, softcover from Zondervan.
Recommended books from Jim Cymbala: All of these books will be life-changing for you if you read them prayerfully and with honesty. Each one of these has had a profound impact on my spiritual life.
Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Fresh Faith
Fresh Power
Jim Cymbala Collection, 3 Volumes
The Life God Blesses
The Church God Blesses
Life & Church God Blesses 2 Volume Pack
Recomended books from Bruce Wilkinson: These books talk about how God wants to work in our lives. Read them from the vantage point of living for God and receiving his benefits in your life not from selfishness, but from a desire to be obedient.
The Prayer of Jabez
Secrets of the Vine
A Life God Rewards: Why Everything You Do Today Matters Forever
A GREAT book from Frank Moore. A must read for Holiness folks! Breaking Free from Sin's Grip: Holiness Defined for a New Generation
Experiencing God, Paperback I don't know of a book that will help you know and understand the will of God for your life as well as this one.
Experiencing God Workbook I recommend this as a companion to the book. It will help you stay serious about your study.
When You Can't Pray: Finding Hope When You're Not Experiencing God Don't feel God working in your life? This book by Al Truesdale will help you get clear in your thinking and will provide you with hope!
Jeanne's Reading Recommendations:
MUSIC
My Faith Will Stay, Compact Disc [CD] By: Cheri Keaggy Description: This follow-up to singer/songwriter Cheri Keaggy's best-selling debut album is a melodic showcase of her maturing vocals and her inspiring, often poetic, lyrics. Includes the hit title track, plus "Lay It Down," "Sweet Peace of God," "Heavenly Father," and six more songs. From Sparrow.