By Lauren Pratt

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Lifeway Christian Resources released its latest Bible study by Preston Perry, Everyday Evangelism: Pursuing Hearts, Not Arguments, focused on equipping the everyday believer to share their faith with confidence and to engage non-Christians with love, respect, and truth.

“Most Christians find it difficult to share their faith. If we aren’t careful, we’ll let these hesitations keep us from the important work God’s given us to do,” said Perry. “God has called us to be evangelists. If we are willing to engage with this calling, He is more than willing to empower us through the Holy Spirit to give the gospel to anyone we encounter.”

Based on Perry’s book published earlier this year, How to Tell the Truth, the six-week study is designed to serve individuals and small groups alike in deepening their biblical view of God’s call on every Christian to share their faith with their friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Perry added, “Before we can have productive conversations about the gospel, we need to cultivate a desire to see people come to faith in Jesus—and desire that more than being right or proving a point.”

According to a 2022 Lifeway Research study, less than half of self-identified Christians have, at least once in the past six months, shared a Bible verse or Bible story with a non-Christian loved one (46%), invited a non-Christian friend or family member to attend a church service or other program at church (43%), or shared with a non-Christian loved one how to become a Christian (38%). Additionally, the 2022 State of Theology report published by Lifeway Research and Ligonier Ministries, only 32% of the 3,011 American adults surveyed strongly agree that it’s very important to personally encourage non-Christians to trust Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

“We see a clear, biblical mandate to go and make disciples, and that starts with sharing the gospel,” said Ben Mandrell, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources. “While evangelism should be the heartbeat of every follower of Jesus Christ, we’re seeing a massive drop-off in Christians regularly taking the gospel from the pews to the people next door who don’t know Christ.”

Mandrell explained that seeing this decline in evangelism highlights the need for greater discipleship among believers to share their faith consistently and effectively. “We pray Everyday Evangelism will equip men and women in the local church with the tools necessary to share the gospel with their friends, family and coworkers. We want to help our church members become everyday evangelists who are, as 1 Peter 3:15 says, ‘ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.’”

Perry builds on his own story of coming to faith and learning how to evangelize in his book and subsequent Bible study, giving readers an example of how the everyday Christian—not just vocational ministers—can talk about their faith wisely and winsomely. Perry, husband to Christian author and speaker Jackie Hill Perry, also founded Bold TV (now Apologetics with Preston Perry) and Bold Apparel in 2017 as avenues to engage the public in theological discourse.

Everyday Evangelism includes video access to teaching sessions, discussion questions, personal study between group sessions, applicable Scripture, “How to Use This Study,” and tips for leading a group. Interwoven into the study are personal stories from Perry and his journey of coming to faith and developing a robust understanding for communicating the gospel clearly and effectively with people from a variety of spiritual backgrounds.

For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

Lauren Pratt is a contracted publicist for Lifeway Christian Resources.

In operation since 1891, Lifeway Christian Resources is one of the leading providers of Christian resources, including Bibles, books, Bible studies, group curriculum, Christian music and movies, Vacation Bible School and church supplies, as well as camps and events for all ages. Lifeway is the world’s largest provider of Spanish Bibles. Based in Brentwood, Tennessee, Lifeway operates as a self-supporting nonprofit. For more information, visit Lifeway.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Aaron Earls, aaron.earls@lifeway.com

Colorado Springs, CO (October 28, 2024)—Focus on the Family, in alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, will release five new kids and middle-grade titles in the spring of 2025. The new products—What’s in Mommy’s Tummy; Fears, Flights, and Kangaroo Fights; Double Cross Down Under; At Face Value; and Sleuth Family Robinson—equip parents to raise their children to have thriving faith.

What’s in Mommy’s Tummy? by Abby Johnson

In a fun and child-friendly way, Abby Johnson helps parents show their kids (ages 2–4) that the life growing inside Mommy’s tummy is a baby brother or sister. It’s a new human being, who will soon appear and join the family.

Little Luke (inspired by one of Abby’s eight kids) has noticed that his mom’s tummy is getting bigger. He wants to know what is growing in there. He wonders if it is various animals, including a cat and a dragon. Through this humorous story, the author provides parents with a tool to celebrate the miracle of life that begins in the womb.

Abby Johnson worked for Planned Parenthood for eight years, working up the ranks to become the clinic director in Bryan, Texas. She was Planned Parenthood’s Employee of the Year in 2008, but she walked away from her job after witnessing the abortion of a 13-week-old fetus during an ultrasound-guided abortion. Upon leaving Planned Parenthood, her defection became a national news headline, which led to a pro-life speaking career. In 2012, she founded And Then There Were None, the only ministry in the nation that helps abortion workers leave their jobs and find new ones out of the industry. To date, she has helped over 700 abortion workers quit. She also founded ProLove Ministries and LoveLine in the fall of 2019. Her bestselling book, Unplanned, was made into a feature film that debuted in theaters nationwide in March 2019 under the same name, and she is the host of the podcast Politely Rude.

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Fears, Flights, and Kangaroo Fights by Bill Myers
Magnificent Mulligans #6

From bestselling author Bill Myers comes a hilarious, faith-filled, and action-packed adventure (for ages 8–12) starring the Mulligan family.

The Mulligans are off to the jungles of South America to help Mom save some snakes. Jessica, terrified of slithery critters, is not thrilled to be on this particular mission of mercy. Meanwhile, Nick and Lisa are on their own mission to transport Bob the kangaroo back to the animal park. But they encounter a group of bad guys who have their own plans: putting a kangaroo in a boxing ring with some unlucky human and charging admission to the fight.

Back home, Dad, Janelle, Stephanie, and Julie are facing their own challenges: taking care of the animal park while worrying about what is happening to the rest of the family. As Dad tells Julie, we can’t get rid of fear by ignoring it, but we can focus on something better, like God’s love and His promises.

As an author and filmmaker, Bill Myers has won 70 national and international awards, including the C. S. Lewis Honor Award. His books and videos have sold over 8 million copies. He co-created the popular McGee and Me series; wrote, directed and starred in several Adventures in Odyssey episodes; and wrote The Incredible Worlds of Wally McDoogle series.

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Double Cross Down Under by Marianne Hering and Marshal Younger
Imagination Station Books #33

When kids step into the Imagination Station, they travel back in time and across the world with cousins Patrick and Beth. Each book is historically accurate, and readers (ages 7–12) will grow in their faith and in their knowledge of history as they race through each unforgettable story.

Hot on the trail of Amelia Darling, Patrick and Beth are transported to Australia where they encounter Reverend George Taplin and his friend James Unaipon, two faithful men of God serving the Aboriginal people and helping them understand the good news of the Gospel. But not every person is interested in this good news.

In the dark of night, Patrick and his new friend, Jandamarra, are kidnapped by bushrangers who need an Aboriginal person to show them the way to a great treasure.

The Imagination Station Books have sold over one million copies.

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At Face Value by Focus on the Family
Adventures in Odyssey #78

Adventures in Odyssey audio dramas release the imagination of both young and old as listeners (ages 7+) follow a host of characters through adventures in the town of Odyssey. These high-quality audio dramas teach biblical truths and moral foundations to help children make decisions throughout their lives. They are perfect for car rides and for initiating important conversations with kids.

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Sleuth Family Robinson: Fighting Evil around the World by Christopher P. N. Maselli

This graphic novel from Focus on the Family and Clubhouse Magazine offers quality, fun, and engaging Christian entertainment. Kids (ages 8–12) learn alongside the Robinsons as they solve problems together as a family.

In addition to the graphic novel, there are over thirty pages of extra content for readers to enjoy, including character profiles, bonus artwork, and faith-building lessons. This comic is especially fun for Adventures in Odyssey fans because it was “written” by Wooton and is an “in-universe” collectible. The story is clean, relevant, exciting, and spiritually uplifting.

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Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT), and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a substantial portion of annual revenue—millions of dollars per year—through corporate donations and the work of Tyndale House Foundation. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.

Focus on the Family, which reaches about 38 million people in 120 countries, is a global faith-based ministry that helps families thrive in Christ. Tyndale House Publishers is pleased to partner with Focus on the Family to help provide trusted resources for strengthening believers in their faith and sharing the gospel; building resilient marriages that reflect God’s design; equipping parents to raise their children with a thriving faith; advocating for the preborn, orphaned, and life at every stage; and engaging the culture through a biblical worldview. Visit Focus at FocusontheFamily.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

Contact: Natalie Wierenga, nataliewierenga@tyndale.com, 630.784.5211

October 2024 | LISLE, IL—IVP is excited to announce that The Disrupters podcast will be adding three election-related bonus episodes to its fifth season to prepare listeners the day before the presidential election, the day of the election, and the day after the election.

Seasons one and two of The Disrupters podcast asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt the church?” Seasons three and four asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt culture?” For its fifth season, hosted by IVP author Kaitlyn Schiess, The Disrupters asked the question, “What does it mean to disrupt ourselves?”

Continuing this theme, this bonus mini-series features host Miranda Zapor Cruz, author of Faithful Politics. Cruz offers a disruption of the noise surrounding Election Day 2024 through thoughtful meditations accompanied by relevant Scripture readings, to help listeners combat the anxiety and uncertainties that accompany the selection of our next national and local leaders. Together, these episodes educate, inspire, and reassure listeners who seek a healthy posture this election year, for the health of their souls as well as for the flourishing of their communities.

Each bonus episode will include a related Scripture reading from the First Nations Version (episode 11), The Second Testament (episode 12), and The First Testament (episode 13).

The schedule of topics and readers will include:

November 4, Episode 11, “Before You Vote”

• Amy Williams is a youth ministry veteran and a certified gang intervention specialist. She is the author of Worth Seeing.
• Chloe T. Sun is the author of Conspicuous in His Absence and is professor of Old Testament and program director of the Chinese Studies Center at Fuller Theological Seminary.
• Terry M. Wildman is the lead translator, general editor, and project manager of the First Nations Version. He serves as the director of spiritual growth and leadership development for Native InterVarsity. He is also the author of Birth of the Chosen One.
• Michael F. Bird is academic dean and lecturer in New Testament at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia. He is the author of over thirty books on the Bible, theology, and history, including Introducing Paul and A Bird’s-Eye View of Luke and Acts.

November 5, Episode 12, “While You Wait”

• Prasanta Verma is the author of Beyond Ethnic Loneliness. Her essays and poetry have been published in Sojourners, Propel Women, (in)courage, Inheritance Magazine, The Indianapolis Review, Barren Magazine, and The Mudroom blog.
• Lynn H. Cohick is distinguished professor of New Testament and director of Houston Theological Seminary at Houston Christian University. She is an associate editor of Dictionary of Paul and His Letters, the second edition.
• Terence Lester is a minister, speaker, community activist, author, and founder of Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit organization focused on poverty awareness and community mobilization. He is the author of five books, including the forthcoming From Dropout to Doctorate (September 2025).
• Scot McKnight is professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary in Lisle, Illinois. He is the author of many books, including Reading Romans Backwards, Pastor Paul, and The Second Testament.

November 6, Episode 13, “After the Result”

• Dorena Williamson writes children’s books and is the author of ColorFull, ThoughtFull, GraceFull, and The Celebration Place. In 1995, Dorena and her husband, Chris, cofounded Strong Tower Bible Church in Franklin, Tennessee, a multicultural fellowship passionate about biblical justice and God’s diverse kingdom.
• Carmen Joy Imes is associate professor of Old Testament at Biola University. She is the author of Bearing God’s Name, Praying the Psalms with Augustine and Friends, and Being God’s Image.
• Jay Y. Kim serves as the lead pastor at WestGate Church in Silicon Valley and on the leadership team of the ReGeneration Project. He is the author of Analog Church and Analog Christian and is the host of IVP’s The Digital Examen podcast.
• Robert Chao Romero is associate professor in the Departments of Chicana/o Studies and Asian American Studies at the University of California at Los Angeles. He is the author of Brown Church.

Read this press release for information about the schedule and guests for season five of The Disrupters, which is available through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast distributors.

Contact:  Krista Clayton | kclayton@ivpress.com

 

 

Nashville, TN, October 28, 2024 – John Eldredge, renowned author, counselor, and teacher, celebrates a monumental achievement with over 15 million copies of his books and Bible studies sold since his debut in 1997. This milestone not only marks Eldredge’s enduring impact on readers worldwide but also sets the stage for exciting new projects to captivate audiences once more.

2024 marks a banner year with the highly anticipated release of a revised and updated version of The Sacred Romance, co-authored with the late Brent Curtis. Set to release on November 12, this edition will feature a new cover and accompanying Bible study designed to inspire both old fans and new readers alike.

Wild at Heart, a seminal work in Eldredge’s collection, continues its legacy with over 7 million copies sold. The associated ministry, Wild at Heart, will commemorate its impact with a series of unique films. Wild at Heart: The Series explores stories of transformation inspired by the book. Each week starting October 11, a new 45-50 minute video will premiere exclusively on YouTube, culminating on November 1. Eldredge shares his personal story within the series, shedding light on his path from inner struggles to healing, resonating with millions globally.

“It’s been an honor for the Nelson Books team and all of HarperCollins Christian Publishing to serve in the trenches with John Eldredge over these many decades,” shared Nelson Books publisher Andrew Stoddard. “We have all been impacted by the work of Wild at Heart and are excited to see the book, Bible study, and events impact the generations to come.”

Wild at Heart Video Series

Looking to the future, in 2025, Eldredge will continue to enrich the spiritual landscape with the release of Experience Jesus. Really.: Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder through Everyday Encounters with God (March 4^th, Nelson Books). This work follows the success of his 2022 bestseller, Resilient.

“Reflecting on this incredible milestone, I am deeply moved by our collective journey towards spiritual awakening and transformation. It’s a privilege to witness how readers from all walks of life have embraced the call to explore the depths of their spiritual identity,” shared Eldredge. “This celebration is a testament to the power of stories that mend hearts and inspire a profound connection with God. I eagerly look forward to the next chapter, inviting all to continue this adventure into the richness of spiritual growth and healing.”

Eldredge’s contributions have not only reshaped narratives of masculinity and spirituality but also provided a roadmap for healing and growth for countless individuals.

John Eldredge is a bestselling author, a counselor, and a teacher. He is also president of Wild at Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God, recover their own hearts in God’s love, and learn to live in God’s kingdom. John and his wife, Stasi, live in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
For more information about John Eldredge and his work, visit WildAtHeart.org.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing
The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. comprises of the Thomas Nelson, Zondervan and HarperChristian Resources publishing groups and imprint, BibleGateway.com, FaithGateway.com, StudyGateway.com and ChurchSource.com. The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space. Bible Gateway is the world’s largest Christian website with more than 20 million unique visitors each month. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, TN with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico. For more information visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.​

Contact:  Lisa Beech, lisa.beech@harpercollins.com, 719-439-9403

 

70 North Alaskan Cyber Hunters Series

“Kimberley Woodhouse once again gives us a fast-paced, intriguing thriller that kept me turning the pages, unable to put the book down until the story concluded.”
-Tracie Peterson, ECPA and USA Today best-selling  author of the Pictures of the Heart series

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.— Award-winning author Kimberley Woodhouse celebrates her fortieth book with 70 North, the newest release in her popular Alaskan Cyber Hunter series. In 70 North, Woodhouse takes readers on a final journey to one of her favorite natural settings –  Alaska.  From the book that started it all, 26 Below to the riveting 8 Down, the Cyber Solutions team has managed to stay one step ahead of serial killer Griz— but in 70 North the risks are higher, and too close to home. David “Mac” McPherson has a personal stake in bringing down this predator for good, while surgeon Traci Hunter is determined to keep her head clear, stay sober and determined. 70 North takes readers on a ride with a twist— when Traci is framed for murder. Will Mac be able to save her? Can he stay focused and stop the next attack?

“I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude that my 40th release – 70 NORTH – is now available for readers. I’m forever grateful to God -the author of all – for His gift of story and the privilege to write for His glory. “ , Says Woodhouse.

Kimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling author of forty books and novellas, including A Deep Divide, Bridge of Gold, and The Mayflower Bride, as well as the co-author of the Heart of Alaska series with Tracie Peterson. Kimberley’s writing has earned a Carol Award, the Christian Market Novel of the Year, the Holt Medallion, among many others. She recently was named a Christy Award finalist in the mystery/suspense/thriller category for 8 Down, book 2 in the Alaskan Cyber Hunter series. A proud former resident of Alaska, she now makes her home in Colorado. Visit her at kimberleywoodhouse.com.

70 North
Kregel Publications
ISBN13:  9780825447747
October 2024 ,  Softcover
291 pages, $16.99

Media Contact:  Jeane Wynn, 918-630-9695, jeane@mytalloak.com

October 2024 | LISLE, IL—Rev. Dr. William E. Pannell, known as one of the most significant figures in Black evangelicalism in the last century, died on October 12, 2024. He was 95.

“Whenever the history of evangelicals in America is written, there will be a chapter on William Pannell,” said Willie James Jennings, Yale Divinity School. “He has been their Jeremiah—his words carrying the density of gospel truth and the wisdom of a seasoned disciple of Jesus.” 

“He would never say this of himself, but I will,” said Jemar Tisby in his article titled “Who Is Bill Pannell?”. “In the truest sense of the word, Dr. Pannell is a real life saint.”

Tisby, who was mentored by Pannell, said that it was one of his greatest professional honors to write the introduction to the 2021 expanded edition of Pannell’s influential book The Coming Race Wars: A Cry for Justice, from Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter.

“In that book he was prophetic about the rising racial tensions in this country and the imperative for the church to act. He was adamant that the gospel had something to say about the most pressing issues of justice in our world,” Tisby said. “We are in a time when people are looking for Christians to model the life of Christ. They are looking for people who pursue Jesus and justice at the same time. People today are looking for a gospel that is actually good news. That’s what Dr. Pannell brings. A message of Christ that is compassionate, angered at injustice, and powerful to enact change.”

“Bill” Pannell was born in Sturgis, Michigan. He received his BA from Fort Wayne Bible College in Indiana in 1951. He went on to study Black history at Wayne State University in Detroit. In 1980 he earned an MA in Social Ethics from the University of Southern California (full biography available at Fuller.edu).

Pannell was professor emeritus of preaching at Fuller Seminary, where he taught from 1974 until his retirement in 2014. Fuller recognized his service to the school and the whole church with the January 2015 renaming and dedication of the William E. Pannell Center for African American Church Studies. Pannell previously served in leadership roles with Youth for Christ and Tom Skinner Associates. His other books include My Friend, the Enemy and Evangelism from the Bottom Up. 

Ed Gilbreath, who worked as Pannell’s editor on the expanded edition of The Coming Race Wars, wrote about his friendship with Pannell in the Christianity Today article, “My Friend, Bill Pannell.” Gilbreath said, “Pannell loved Jesus and his church. As a preacher, his heart beat for the gospel and its biblically rooted values of evangelism, discipleship, and justice. His teaching was grounded in a strikingly honest understanding of how Christianity and the church really operate in the world. He was frank about how they are often accessories to the sins of racism and social injustice rather than proponents of reconciliation. 

“A lack of real discipleship was at the core of our troubles, Pannell believed. ‘Christ’s parting command was that we go and make disciples of the nations,’ he wrote in his last book, an expanded edition of his 1993 release, The Coming Race Wars, ‘It wasn’t build more churches; it was make disciples. It seems fairly clear today that we have far more churches and Christians than we have disciples.’”

Terumi Echols, President and Publisher of IVP, said, “We can only imagine the far-reaching impact the life and words of William Pannell have left on the Church. We are grateful for his courage in speaking out on issues of racial justice and for his generosity in loving across differences so well. And we at IVP are truly humbled and honored to carry on that legacy through a book that will impact the Church and the culture for generations to come.”

You can learn more about the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. William E. Pannell through this documentary from Fuller Studios titled The Gospel According to Bill Pannell.

Contact:  Krista Clayton, kclayton@ivpress.com

Two Legacy Brands Unite, Making David C Cook the Largest Independent Publisher of Curriculum for the Interdenominational Church Market

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., October 16, 2024—Christian publisher and music company David C Cook announced today its intention to acquire Group Publishing, a leader in Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs.

The addition of Group Publishing’s VBS and other faith-focused curricula will make David C Cook the largest independent publisher of curriculum for the interdenominational church market, furthering its position as a leader in children’s ministry resources.

David C Cook has a proven history of acquiring and successfully growing and integrating legacy brands—including Standard Publishing Commentary and Gospel Light—but hasn’t yet established a strong presence in the VBS market, where Group Publishing is a market leader.

“The success of Group Publishing as an innovator in VBS, children’s ministry, youth ministry, Bibles and small-group resources is a testimony to the hard work and creativity of their staff,” said David C Cook CEO Bill Reeves. “Combining the talents and capabilities of the Group Publishing and David C Cook teams will exponentially increase our ability to equip the church and engage young people in transformational discipleship.”

“Group Publishing’s VBS programs include memorable and relevant children’s music we envision partnering well with our global music division, Integrity Music,” said Reeves. “Expanding our children’s ministry capabilities aligns with our commitment to continue serving all generations of the church.”

David C Cook was founded in 1875 in response to a need for age-appropriate Sunday school materials for kids. It has since expanded to create and distribute curriculum, books and music for all ages and stages of the faith journey.

Group Publishing began in 1974, when youth ministry worker Thom Schultz published GROUP magazine to support and inspire youth group leaders. Following the magazine’s initial success, Schultz grew Group Publishing’s offerings to include a wide variety of practical and innovative resources and experiences for Christians and church leaders.

“David C Cook is a great choice to carry on the important work we’ve started,” said Schultz, who has served as founder and CEO of Group Publishing since its inception. “As my wife Joani and I prepare to shift our focus to global philanthropic work, we enter this next season knowing Group’s relational, experiential resources will live on with David C Cook, reaching even more people and helping them grow in their relationships with Jesus and each other.”

About David C Cook 
David C Cook is a nonprofit ministry dedicated to equipping the global church with leadership, discipleship and worship resources to help Christians grow in faith and pass it along to the next generation. Integrity Music, part of the David C Cook family, is committed to taking songs of substance to the local church and its leaders around the world. Read more about David C Cook and its global ministry outreach at davidccook.org.

About Group Publishing 
Group Publishing creates a wide variety of award-winning, faith-based content, products and experiences for kids, teens and adults. Founded in 1974 when Thom Schultz recognized a need for youth ministry resources, today Group Publishing’s offerings include Vacation Bible School curriculum, Sunday school curriculum, music and resources for believers of all ages. For more information about Group Publishing, visit group.com. CONTACT:  Alli Ehrhardt, 541.973.1994
 

A Front Row Seat to Epic Bible Events

New installment in middle-grade fiction series from Marty Machowski offers a new perspective on Old Testament stories from the animals who could have been there.

Imagine being there as the Red Sea opened up to let the Israelites pass through. What would have been like to be on Mt. Sinai as Moses received the Ten Commandments? In The Prophecy and the Hope (New Growth Press/September 30, 2024), book two in the Redemption Tales series,​best-selling children’s author Marty Machowski invites middle-grade readers to join the fictional animals who witnessed the most epic events in Scripture as they took place.

The Prophecy and the Hope begins as oxen brothers Otto and Oscar stand trapped and terrified between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s approaching army along with all of Israel. Yes, God has brought them this far out of the misery of Egypt but escape now seems impossible!​When Moses shouts, “Fear not. Stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord,” everyone gasps as the cloud of the Lord billows up and blocks the enemy from advancing. Then the wind begins to blow. Will the oxen and the rest of Israel be able to outrun the enemy?

The Redemption Tales series for readers ages 8–12, offers a creative presentation of the gospel message. The first installment, The Shadow and the Promise, followed the tales of the animals as the events of Genesis and Exodus up to the Passover unfolded before them. In this second release of the series, the adventures continue through the end of the Old Testament. Young readers will not only join the oxen at the Red Sea but will meet mountain goats at Mount Sinai, Rahab’s pets in Jericho, horses watching as David faces Goliath, the Queen of Sheba’s camels, ravens with Elijah, and mice in Isaiah’s house. As their stories progress, the animals begin to gather the prophetic hints of the redemption to come with the help of an ever-present dove named Daniel.

For a deeper study of the truth hidden within each chapter, The Prophecy and the Hope includes discussion questions​to acquaint kids with the “truth behind the tales.” The entire series offers a new point of view of God’s overarching story of redemption found throughout his Word.

“Why are the stories of God’s work in history so fantastic? For example, why did God use a miraculous staff, numerous plagues, and opening a body of water to deliver his people from Egypt? Why did God go through all that trouble when he could have delivered his people with a single word? He did it to show his mighty power to his people then and to create a grand salvation story for the generations to come (see Exodus 10:1–2). He wanted us to know him and his power, holiness, mercy, and most of all, his unfailing love, so that we​too might believe. The Redemption Tales are more than fiction—their truth has the power to transform you completely,” Machowski writes in the introduction.

The third installment in the Redemption Tales series, The Light and the Life will be released on February 10, 2025, followed by the final installment, The Death and the Victory on September 1, 2025. Both of these books feature events of the New Testament.

The Prophecy and the Hope
The Redemption Tales, Book 2
By Marty Machowski, Illustrated by Blair Files
ISBN 978-1-64507-474-8
September 30, 2024 / Retail Price $16.99
Juvenile Fiction / Religious / Christian / Action and Adventure

Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for thirty years. Machowski leads Promise Kingdom, the gospel-centered children’s ministry of Covenant Fellowship. He is also the Executive Editor for Children’s Resources at New Growth Press.  He is the author of a number of family devotionals, Sunday School curriculums (including the Gospel Story Curriculum), children’s books, and parenting titles. His latest releases include The Treasure, Angels on Your Side, and The Shadow and the Promise.  Machowski and his wife, Lois, have six children and several grandchildren. They reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.

Learn more at www.martymachowski.com. He can also be found on Instagram (@martymachowski) and Twitter (@MartyMachowski).

Blair Files is an illustrator and textile designer based in New York City. She is inspired by colorful characters, travels abroad, and of course, great stories. She is the illustrator of the Redemption Tales series. Her work and sketchbook can be found at www.blairfiles.com.

Journey Through the Life of Jesus in New Devotional Book

The new devotional book from Concordia Publishing House leads readers through 52 weeks, covering the life of Jesus as told in the four Gospels.

Christians find comfort in knowing that Jesus became human, walked the earth, and promised to return on Judgment Day. The new devotional book from Concordia Publishing House, Come, Follow Me: A Year of Devotions on the Life of Jesus, covers 52 weeks—focusing on one event in Jesus’ life each week—to reveal the many facets of God’s love and grace in Jesus. The book is now available to order from Concordia Publishing House.

“In these devotions, you will see the grace and love of God’s dear Son, who became human to live among us; to teach us of God’s unsurpassable love; to suffer and die to take away our sin and guilt; and to give us eternal life with Him in heaven. Each week will focus on one event in Jesus’ life. Each day will look at a slightly different angle of that event. We have devoted six days to each week, which enables you to worship at church one day, then spend a few minutes with Jesus on the other days of the week” (from the Introduction).

Readers will spend a year with God’s Son, the Savior, Jesus Christ, and follow His life and work as presented in the Gospels of the New Testament. Come, Follow Me focuses on a different event in Jesus’ life each week, from His early life to His promise to return on Judgment Day. Each week includes six devotions that offer different angles on the weekly topic. Weeks aren’t organized by any particular date or lectionary, so readers can jump right into their year with Jesus whenever they wish.

Visit cph.org for more information about the book. Contact Erica Sontag for more information.

About Concordia Publishing House
Concordia Publishing House (CPH) is the publishing arm of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. For more than 150 years, CPH has been providing individuals, churches, and schools with products that are faithful to the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions. From books and Bibles to church supplies, curriculum, and software, CPH offers more than 10,000 products to support the proclamation of the Gospel worldwide. Visit CPH online at cph.org.

CONTACT:  Erica Sontag, Public Relations, 314-268-1303, erica.sontag@cph.org     

 

Ada, Mich. (Oct. 16, 2024)— Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, is pleased to announce the addition of two new acquisition editors to its team.

Eddie LaRow joined Baker Books in February. LaRow brings 8 years of experience in Christian publishing, having served in various roles including marketing, operations, sales, and editorial at Crossway, IVP, and B&H Academic. He holds a master’s degree in theological studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and is currently a PhD candidate at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, focusing on theological exegesis of the Old Testament.

Rachel Joy Welcher joined Baker Books in October. Welcher comes to Baker Books from Lexham Press. She holds a Master of Letters from The University of Saint Andrews in Scotland and is the author of Talking Back to Purity Culture (InterVarsity Press), three collections of poetry, and a forthcoming children’s book on Psalm 121 (IVP Kids).

“Eddie’s unique combination of editorial vision, wisdom, and passion for books has made an immediate impact on our publishing program,” said Brian Vos, Editorial Director for Baker Books. “He has been an incredible addition to the team.”

Regarding Welcher, Vos added, “Throughout our extensive search process, Rachel set herself apart as an ideal collaborator. As an editor, author, and poet, she’s dedicated her life to crafting messages that speak to readers’ hearts and minds. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

LaRow was drawn to Baker Books for its rich history of serving and building up the body of Christ through resources for pastors in the pulpit, hearers in the pew, and anyone seeking to learn more about God and His Word. He lives in Central Illinois with his wife, one-year-old daughter, and their 3-year-old Beagle.

Welcher resides in South Dakota with her husband, Pastor Evan, and their young children, Hildegaard and Richard.

Baker Books has a vision for showing people a better way to live by publishing books that are relevant, intelligent, and engaging.