Christian Essentials
The Christian Essentials series passes down tradition that matters. The ancient church was founded on basic biblical teachings and practices like the Ten Commandments, baptism, the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Prayer, and corporate worship. These basics of the Christian life have sustained and nurtured every generation of the faithful—from the apostles to today. The books in the Christian Essentials series open up the meaning of the foundations of our faith.
The Church
A Guide to the People of God
You belong to God’s family. But do you understand what that means? The Bible tells the story of God and his people. But it is not merely history. It is our story. Abraham is our father. And Israel’s freedom from slavery is ours. Brad East traces the story of God’s people, from father Abraham to the coming of Christ. He shows how we need the scope of the entire Bible to fully grasp the mystery of the church. The church is not a building but a body. It is not peripheral or optional in the life of faith. Rather, it is the very beating heart of God’s story, where our needs and hopes are found.
Learn more“This is a bright, thoughtful, and passionate account of the Church. Brad East roots ecclesiology in the story of Israel and the story of Jesus Christ and in doing so provides a number of fresh perspectives that can help us in our doctrine and our practice.”
“I find this an extraordinary book. It is written with simplicity and clarity. And yet it covers so much, introducing its readers to an extraordinarily rich field of theology.”
The Collected Christian Essentials: Catechism
A Guide to the Ten Commandments, the Apostles’ Creed, and the Lord’s Prayer
The catechism— the Ten Commandments, the Apostles’ Creed, and the Lord’s Prayer—has sustained and nurtured every generation of believers, directing their faith, hope, and love. It helps Christians read, pray, and live God’s word. By giving Christians God’s word to give back to him, it plants seeds of his word and cultivates them to full growth. The Collected Christian Essentials: Catechism brings the church’s ancient catechism to a new generation.
Learn more“This is a brilliant and inspiring collection of studies by three of the leading theologians of our day. It should be on the bookshelf of all Christians.”
“Whether for personal or communal use, this inviting catechism is itself a gift of grace.”
God’s Word
A Guide to Holy Scripture
You read it. But do you understand it? While the Bible is the most famous book in history, it can be intimidating. Yet God’s word is for us and all people. It is living and active and has the power to save, give life, and heal. Do we read the Bible attuned to the power of God’s word? John W. Kleinig opens up the riches found in the Bible. He likens God’s word to a lavish meal that nourishes and satisfies our souls. He shows us the centrality of Scripture to Christian faith—the word through which the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit speak with one voice to believers on Earth.
Learn more“A delightful invitation to the rich feast Jesus provides us in his word. It will appetize your ears, so that they might taste and see that the Lord is good!”
“Kleinig reminds us of what happens to our hearts when the word of Christ gets into it and changes it from the inside out. … To read this book with open ears is already to experience what it is talking about.”