October 7, 2006

The beginning ...

It is an E-world, isn't it? From E-mail to E-shopping and E-cards, even E-dating and now E-publishing through E-books requiring E-readers. As I meet an increasing number of people from across the country, it seems prudent that I join the E-world and establish a site where we might stay connected and perhaps encourage one another and spur one another on to good deeds, ultimately furthering each other's walk and depth with regard to the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
It is that mission and purpose that excites me so about working with Banner of Truth. From its very beginning nearly 50 years ago, Banner was organised so that "financial considerations would not determine the publications program." But instead, "it was aimed to publish what we believed honoured God and what people needed rather than what they might initially want" (Iain Murray). That is so true, to this very day ... publishing what we believe honors God and what people need rather than what they might initially want.
As I sit at my desk on the second floor of Banner's U.S. office in Carlisle, PA, just behind me, on the other side of the wall, there exists an entire warehouse of books ... not necessarily books that the vast majority of today's church wants, but books that the saints need and would desperately benefit from reading. I am ever challenged by the depth and intimacy with one's God that I see reflected in the prayers of The Valley of Vision, the writings of men like Owen and Manton and Baxter, the published biographies of people like Elizabeth Prentiss, Susannah Spurgeon, David Brainerd, Ernest Reisinger and more.
In the coming days, I hope we can spend some time together, becoming better acquainted, and also discussing some of what's on the other side of my office wall ... not just to talk about books for books sake, but specifically how God has used them, and continues to do so, to strengthen faith and deepen one's walk with Him. Thanks for stopping by. Leave a comment, if you don't mind, so that we might become better acquainted.
Grace and Peace,
Steve

4 comments:

Lauren said...

Such a nice surprise--my therapist's publisher honoring me with a visit!

Stop by anytime--please! It is so ironic that only us closed-minded Puritans truly desire dialogue.

Wonderful news, too, about Calvin's Sermon on the Mount series.

May God's abding and gracious providence keep you, and may he continue to prosper your God-honoring ministry of his Word.

Vic said...

Hello Mr. Burlew. My wife (above) tipped me off to your new blog. Welcome to the EtherZone! (I'm a relative newcomer too).

We have been very much blessed by the Banner of Truth books. May God continue to bless your work.

Vic

Anonymous said...

I do necessarily want the Puritan books! I also have several by Murray. Nice blog, Sir! Look forward to your further contributions!

Mark said...

Dear Mr. Burlew,

It is great to see new ideas coming from old friends like Banner!
Books and blogs, what a great combination.

Mark