... if I share with you God's challenge to me? Some of our staff is reading through "They Were Pilgrims," by Marcus Loane and are now in the first of its four short biographies. David Brainerd's life was filled with such hardship and pain and sickness; I am ashamed at some of my own complaining. And in the midst of all that, by God's grace to be sure, he kept such sweet and intimate fellowship with God. Give thought to some of what he wrote:
"Filling up our time with and for God is the way to rise up and lie down in peace."
"My soul was now tender, devout, and solemn. I was afraid of nothing but sin; and afraid of that in every action and thought."
"Such fatigues and hardships as these serve to wean me more from the earth, and I trust will make heaven the sweeter."
I have yet to grow tired of reading or being deeply challenged by those statements - filling up my time with God and for God - being afraid of nothing but sin; and really fearing sin - seeing the "fatigues and hardships" of my life as things which are weaning me from "here," and preparing me for "there." Hmmmm.
There isn't much else to say, is there?
November 30, 2006
November 27, 2006
Taking you "Through the Year..."
A few weeks ago, I was alone in my car with Sinclair Ferguson. I knew we were about to receive this new book, "Through the Year with William Still" and, while most people here wouldn't recognize the name, I knew Sinclair spent time with Mr. Still. So I asked Sinclair about him, and do you know what he told me? With all of the compasssion that I so often hear in Sinclair's voice, he said that William Still is the man who has had the greatest spiritual impact on his life! "Really?" I said. Sinclair went on to say that Mr. Still pastored the same church in Scotland for fifty years, preached through the Bible three times and wrote out notes on the whole Bible twice. Interestingly enough, as I sat there in my car listening to Sinclair, an unseen book with an unknown name on the cover became something I couldn't wait to get my hands on! And today I did, for the first time. The truck has come and gone, and "Through the Year with William Still" has taken its place here in the North America warehouse of Banner of Truth. The readings are based on Mr. Still's study, a man that Sinclair wrote, "seemed to live in the Bible." They are relatively short and each one is dated. And they begin January 1 with God's revelation in Genesis and continue through the Old and New Testaments to December 31, "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus." I just wish I had gotten this book earlier; now is the time for people to get hold of this to really use it well through the coming year.Grace & peace,
Steve
November 22, 2006
Banner of Truth Top 50 Sellers - Last Six Months
OK, here's the grand countdown finale. I guess to follow the same order, I have to give you #1 first (or #1 and #2, in this case). Does it come as a surprise? If you haven't yet encountered it, give up some potato chips or something for the next few weeks and pull your saved pennies together to get "The Valley of Vision." Also, I just said to our staff here at Banner of Truth in Carlisle, PA that I personally think a close second to The Valley of Vision is Pastor in Prayer, a collection of some of the prayers that C.H. Spurgeon prayed during the morning worship services. I got caught up in one just yesterday while moving some books. Quite honestly, I think Pastor in Prayer is one of the many hidden jewels still waiting to be discovered within the Banner warehouse.
Anyway, here's the top ten from the past six months.
#1. The Valley of Vision, Arthur Bennett, editor; Leather- I've already told you about this one. Skip the chips; buy the book! :-)
#2. The Valley of Vision, Arthur Bennett, editor; Paperback - Ditto!
#3. The Reformed Pastor, by Richard Baxter - I think this is one of the first Banner of Truth books I ever bought, years ago. The same copy is still on my shelf, and it hasn't lasted this long because it hasn't been read! It really is "one of the best known classics on the work of the Christian ministry."
#4. Let's Study Luke, by Douglas Milne - In all honesty, I could say the same thing about any book in this Let's Study series. In my personal study, right now, I'm working through the Gospel of John with Mark Johnston's Let's Study John. Granted, I know Mark; he's one of our Banner's Trustees. But even without that, I think anyone would have the sense that Mark or Sinclair or Derek or whomever is right there with you, sharing a cup of coffee in addition to some great insight into the Scripture that you've just read. I really do suggest that people start off the new year, either alone or in a small group, with a fresh commitment to get into the Word with a Let's Study book at your side (can I help it that I really do like and use these books?!?!).
#5. Mortification of Sin, by John Owen - Wow, what do I say about this one? I guess I'll be open with what you already know based on Scripture ... I still struggle with sin. And this book by Owen (abridged and made a bit easier to read) deals with that very struggle and provides some real encouragement that has made a difference, for me and, based on what I hear at conferences, alot of other people, too. It's a great book to jointly read and discuss with a buddy that you can be accountable to.
#6. The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, by J. Burroughs - We all know 1 Timothy 6:6, "Godliness with contentment is great gain." And that it is. Sadly, however, it is still a rare jewel among the church. Perhaps Burroughs can share his path to enjoying this rare jewel.
#7. Getting the Gospel Right, by Cornelis Venema - New in 2006, this is a concise summary of the issues surrounding what some have been offering as "new perspectives" on Paul. Venema's longer analysis of this issue was just released by Banner, titled "The Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ."
#8. All Things for Good, by Thomas Watson - A year ago, at our church's camping weekend, my Sunday morning text was Romans 8:28. Interestingly enough, I just referred to it in an email sent to a young guy I met with yesterday at a nearby coffee shop. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." This is one great verse to spend a book on.
#9. Doctrine of Repentance, by Thomas Watson - What really is repentance? And how does one really repent? What could be a better use of time that nailing down a solid answer to these two questions? I always enjoy reading Watson.
#10. The Christian Life, by Sinclair Ferguson - If The Reformed Pastor was the first Banner book I ever purchased, years ago, perhaps this by Sinclair is the one I've read the most times. Still together, but well worn, to be sure. What can I say except, "This is just really good stuff."
There you have it. I wish we could just give them all away, but my eldest is on the threshold of college, you know! :-) Keep reading!
Grace & peace,
Steve
Anyway, here's the top ten from the past six months.
#1. The Valley of Vision, Arthur Bennett, editor; Leather- I've already told you about this one. Skip the chips; buy the book! :-)
#2. The Valley of Vision, Arthur Bennett, editor; Paperback - Ditto!
#3. The Reformed Pastor, by Richard Baxter - I think this is one of the first Banner of Truth books I ever bought, years ago. The same copy is still on my shelf, and it hasn't lasted this long because it hasn't been read! It really is "one of the best known classics on the work of the Christian ministry."
#4. Let's Study Luke, by Douglas Milne - In all honesty, I could say the same thing about any book in this Let's Study series. In my personal study, right now, I'm working through the Gospel of John with Mark Johnston's Let's Study John. Granted, I know Mark; he's one of our Banner's Trustees. But even without that, I think anyone would have the sense that Mark or Sinclair or Derek or whomever is right there with you, sharing a cup of coffee in addition to some great insight into the Scripture that you've just read. I really do suggest that people start off the new year, either alone or in a small group, with a fresh commitment to get into the Word with a Let's Study book at your side (can I help it that I really do like and use these books?!?!).
#5. Mortification of Sin, by John Owen - Wow, what do I say about this one? I guess I'll be open with what you already know based on Scripture ... I still struggle with sin. And this book by Owen (abridged and made a bit easier to read) deals with that very struggle and provides some real encouragement that has made a difference, for me and, based on what I hear at conferences, alot of other people, too. It's a great book to jointly read and discuss with a buddy that you can be accountable to.
#6. The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, by J. Burroughs - We all know 1 Timothy 6:6, "Godliness with contentment is great gain." And that it is. Sadly, however, it is still a rare jewel among the church. Perhaps Burroughs can share his path to enjoying this rare jewel.
#7. Getting the Gospel Right, by Cornelis Venema - New in 2006, this is a concise summary of the issues surrounding what some have been offering as "new perspectives" on Paul. Venema's longer analysis of this issue was just released by Banner, titled "The Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ."
#8. All Things for Good, by Thomas Watson - A year ago, at our church's camping weekend, my Sunday morning text was Romans 8:28. Interestingly enough, I just referred to it in an email sent to a young guy I met with yesterday at a nearby coffee shop. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." This is one great verse to spend a book on.
#9. Doctrine of Repentance, by Thomas Watson - What really is repentance? And how does one really repent? What could be a better use of time that nailing down a solid answer to these two questions? I always enjoy reading Watson.
#10. The Christian Life, by Sinclair Ferguson - If The Reformed Pastor was the first Banner book I ever purchased, years ago, perhaps this by Sinclair is the one I've read the most times. Still together, but well worn, to be sure. What can I say except, "This is just really good stuff."
There you have it. I wish we could just give them all away, but my eldest is on the threshold of college, you know! :-) Keep reading!
Grace & peace,
Steve
November 21, 2006
Banner of Truth Top 50 Sellers - Last Six Months
The countdown still continues:
#11. Susannah Spurgeon: Free Grace & Dying Love - We haven't even had this book for all of the past six months and it still made it to #11! The first half - morning devotions that Mrs. Spurgeon wrote; the second half - a short biography of Mrs. Spurgeon's life. I especially liked her own words describing her appreciation of God's sovereignty in bringing her together with her husband, since she was not at all first attracted to the young orator's eloquence!
#12. A Godly Man's Picture, by Thomas Watson - A Puritan Paperback written in the 1600s, I was very challenged by these biblical characteristics of a godly man!
#13. Mystery of Providence, by John Flavel - A Puritan Paperback that's become one more classic to read.
#14. Summary of Christian Doctrine, by Louis Berkhof - A good summary of his longer theology.
#15. Christian in Complete Armour Vol. 1, by William Gurnall - Five guys at conferences during the past six months have told me stories of how this 3-volume set has impacted their lives!
#16. Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices, by Thomas Brooks - The spiritual battle is on; engage in the fight.
#17. Today's Gospel, by Walter Chantry - Does the "accepting Jesus into your heart" phrase ever sound an alarm? This is an important, even if relatively short, work.
#18. Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee, by Sharon James - Another new title, not even with us six months, yet making the top 20. I have often said that every church has some woman that needs this book. What encouragement to see Elizabeth Prentiss, author of the novel "Stepping Heavenward" and the hymn, "More Love to Thee, O Christ" grabbing on to the sovereignty of God after losing her own two children!
#19. Scottish Christian Heritage, by Iain Murray - Three hundred precious years. Some have called this Iain Murray's best work yet.
#20. Prayer, by John Bunyan - A Puritan Paperback to encourage you in this communion with God.
#11. Susannah Spurgeon: Free Grace & Dying Love - We haven't even had this book for all of the past six months and it still made it to #11! The first half - morning devotions that Mrs. Spurgeon wrote; the second half - a short biography of Mrs. Spurgeon's life. I especially liked her own words describing her appreciation of God's sovereignty in bringing her together with her husband, since she was not at all first attracted to the young orator's eloquence!
#12. A Godly Man's Picture, by Thomas Watson - A Puritan Paperback written in the 1600s, I was very challenged by these biblical characteristics of a godly man!
#13. Mystery of Providence, by John Flavel - A Puritan Paperback that's become one more classic to read.
#14. Summary of Christian Doctrine, by Louis Berkhof - A good summary of his longer theology.
#15. Christian in Complete Armour Vol. 1, by William Gurnall - Five guys at conferences during the past six months have told me stories of how this 3-volume set has impacted their lives!
#16. Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices, by Thomas Brooks - The spiritual battle is on; engage in the fight.
#17. Today's Gospel, by Walter Chantry - Does the "accepting Jesus into your heart" phrase ever sound an alarm? This is an important, even if relatively short, work.
#18. Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee, by Sharon James - Another new title, not even with us six months, yet making the top 20. I have often said that every church has some woman that needs this book. What encouragement to see Elizabeth Prentiss, author of the novel "Stepping Heavenward" and the hymn, "More Love to Thee, O Christ" grabbing on to the sovereignty of God after losing her own two children!
#19. Scottish Christian Heritage, by Iain Murray - Three hundred precious years. Some have called this Iain Murray's best work yet.
#20. Prayer, by John Bunyan - A Puritan Paperback to encourage you in this communion with God.
November 20, 2006
Banner of Truth Top 50 Sellers - Last Six Months
The countdown continues:
#21. Right with God, by John Blanchard - Maybe it's just me, but I struggle a little gospel tract being my only tool for sharing the gospel. This is clearly something more. The chapter headings are pretty clear: The Truth, The Problem, The Failure, The Answer, The Need, The Way Ahead. Another great tool for sharing the gospel is Banner's newer title, The Promise. It's unique; 31 daily Bible readings and some comment that introduces the Christian message by starting in Genesis and taking one to Revelation. Check it out, also.
#22. Secret Key to Heaven, by Thomas Brooks (Puritan Paperback) - Not long ago, I read one of our little booklets by J.C. Ryle, A Call to Prayer, to those at our church's prayer meeting. I know it had an impact on me. This deals with the same subject, only from Thomas Brooks - closet prayer, that which we do/pray when no one else is around. Brooks says, "The power of religion and godliness lives, thrives, or dies as closet prayer lives, thrives, or dies" in our lives. He's right, you know.
#23. Death of Death in the Death of Christ, by John Owen - A young guy named Bob just started working in our packing room this past Monday, helping us out til Christmas. Yesterday, as he was packing this book, I heard him say, "This is one of my all-time favorite books!" You've got good taste, Bob! And it's become a classic, from Owen.
#24. Sketches from Church History, by S. Houghton - I love this book. It's a perfect, high level overview that didn't bog me down. Our family used to homeschool; now, our girls attend a classical Christian school in the area. This book is perfect for use in both of those settings, or just by someone like me who wanted that "big picture" overview.
#25. Glory of Christ, by John Owen (Puritan Paperback) - I stand in awe! Even the back cover of this book says that what Owen writes is sometimes "almost overwhelming." This Puritan Paperback has been abridged and made easier to read; a good way to get introduced to Owen's writings.
#26. Sermon on the Mount, by Sinclair Ferguson - Actually, a good friend let me borrow his copy of this book years ago, and I don't think I ever gave it back! Sorry, Jack W. For the first time, I really got to see how the Beatitudes and Sermon all fit together. I was just with Sinclair a couple of weeks ago, and you know something - he writes just like preaches, as if he's a good friend sitting next to you, chatting about ... whatever.
#27. Bruised Reed, by Richard Sibbes (Puritan Paperback) - Isaiah wrote, "A bruised reed shall he not break and the smoking flax shall he not quench; he shall bring forth judgement unto truth" (Is. 42:1-3). For the weak. For the discouraged. It's been a real encouragement.
#28. Let's Study Ephesians, by Sinclair Ferguson - Another in a great series. See my comments on another in this series, #4, listed above.
#29. Let's Study Revelation, by Derek Thomas - And yet another; ditto to what I just said.
#30 Sovereignty of God, by A.W. Pink - Why do some within the church seemingly fear this truth? I am loving a brand new work, just received, titled, "The Hand of God: The Comfort of Having a Sovereign God." God is sovereign! Embrace this truth, and enjoy the comfort that is ours because this is, in fact, true! We see this in one of our new biographies, Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee." God's sovereignty is what carried her through.
Numbers 11-20 will be posted next.
#21. Right with God, by John Blanchard - Maybe it's just me, but I struggle a little gospel tract being my only tool for sharing the gospel. This is clearly something more. The chapter headings are pretty clear: The Truth, The Problem, The Failure, The Answer, The Need, The Way Ahead. Another great tool for sharing the gospel is Banner's newer title, The Promise. It's unique; 31 daily Bible readings and some comment that introduces the Christian message by starting in Genesis and taking one to Revelation. Check it out, also.
#22. Secret Key to Heaven, by Thomas Brooks (Puritan Paperback) - Not long ago, I read one of our little booklets by J.C. Ryle, A Call to Prayer, to those at our church's prayer meeting. I know it had an impact on me. This deals with the same subject, only from Thomas Brooks - closet prayer, that which we do/pray when no one else is around. Brooks says, "The power of religion and godliness lives, thrives, or dies as closet prayer lives, thrives, or dies" in our lives. He's right, you know.
#23. Death of Death in the Death of Christ, by John Owen - A young guy named Bob just started working in our packing room this past Monday, helping us out til Christmas. Yesterday, as he was packing this book, I heard him say, "This is one of my all-time favorite books!" You've got good taste, Bob! And it's become a classic, from Owen.
#24. Sketches from Church History, by S. Houghton - I love this book. It's a perfect, high level overview that didn't bog me down. Our family used to homeschool; now, our girls attend a classical Christian school in the area. This book is perfect for use in both of those settings, or just by someone like me who wanted that "big picture" overview.
#25. Glory of Christ, by John Owen (Puritan Paperback) - I stand in awe! Even the back cover of this book says that what Owen writes is sometimes "almost overwhelming." This Puritan Paperback has been abridged and made easier to read; a good way to get introduced to Owen's writings.
#26. Sermon on the Mount, by Sinclair Ferguson - Actually, a good friend let me borrow his copy of this book years ago, and I don't think I ever gave it back! Sorry, Jack W. For the first time, I really got to see how the Beatitudes and Sermon all fit together. I was just with Sinclair a couple of weeks ago, and you know something - he writes just like preaches, as if he's a good friend sitting next to you, chatting about ... whatever.
#27. Bruised Reed, by Richard Sibbes (Puritan Paperback) - Isaiah wrote, "A bruised reed shall he not break and the smoking flax shall he not quench; he shall bring forth judgement unto truth" (Is. 42:1-3). For the weak. For the discouraged. It's been a real encouragement.
#28. Let's Study Ephesians, by Sinclair Ferguson - Another in a great series. See my comments on another in this series, #4, listed above.
#29. Let's Study Revelation, by Derek Thomas - And yet another; ditto to what I just said.
#30 Sovereignty of God, by A.W. Pink - Why do some within the church seemingly fear this truth? I am loving a brand new work, just received, titled, "The Hand of God: The Comfort of Having a Sovereign God." God is sovereign! Embrace this truth, and enjoy the comfort that is ours because this is, in fact, true! We see this in one of our new biographies, Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee." God's sovereignty is what carried her through.
Numbers 11-20 will be posted next.
November 16, 2006
A Children's MUST READ for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is just a week away, but here's a book (Banner's #31 from the last six months) that is just perfect for you to gather some children together and read aloud during this next week. "Voyage To Freedom: A Story of the Atlantic Crossing 1620," by David Gay is a historically accurate telling of the nine week voyage of the Mayflower crossing the Atlantic, written especially for children. Read the introduction below, then click here or call 800-263-8085 and buy the book. It lists for $10, but that would be only $7.50 if ordered via the web or $8.00 if you call (plus shipping). I have spent many Thanksgivings looking for something to share with my children to make the holiday appropriately significant. This is that something! Feel free to tell others about it in the next couple of days. Sadly, the time is pretty short to get the word out for this year.
Grace & Peace,
Steve
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VOYAGE TO FREEDOM
A Story of the Atlantic Crossing 1620
by David Gay - Published by Banner of Truth
The Introduction
You are standing on a narrow quayside waiting to board a small ship. You are about to make an exciting but dangerous and uncomfortable voyage. I want you to pause, just for a moment or two. There are a few things I want you to know about the story of the voyage you are about to take. I want you to have a look at the little ship, its passengers and crew, and I want you to know the reason for making such a journey.
The first thing I want you to know is that the story is true. That is, it is based on historical fact. It tells the exciting story of the historic voyage of the 100 or so Pilgrims who crossed the Atlantic ocean in 1620. Master Reynolds, John Howland and William Butten all existed. It is a true story.
But, of course, we do not have a detailed record of all that went on during the voyage. We do not know all that was said. I have tried to weave a story around four imaginary characters - the Lovelace family - to show what the voyage must have been like. It happened very much as I have tried to show it.
The voyage was hard - very hard and very, very dangerous. I have tried to show you how hard a time the Pilgrims had. The ship was very tiny. The QE2, for example, is 66,000 tons. The Mayflower was only 180 tons. If you can imagine 6 or 7 family cars parked nose to tail - that is how long (or short) she was - and only about 4 cars wide! And yet she carried 100 passengers and 20 or so crew. A crossing of the Atlantic in recent times would only take a few days - the Mayflower took 9 weeks! The passengers were crammed into a very tiny wooden ship without proper rooms, food, air, beds or sanitation. It must have been horrible! They passed through storms. They were cheated and abused. They were blown off course.
Nor must we forget that it was a tremendous risk to take. They left their familiar and friendly homes and crossed the ocean to a new, unknown and dangerous land. Remember, the longest journey most people undertook in those days was less than 30 miles from their homes - and at the speed of a horse. The Pilgrims sailed 3,000 miles!
Why did they do it?
The Pilgrims were Puritans. They wished to worship God simply - no special buildings - no special robes - no candles - no altars - no prayer books. They wished to worship God according to the way he had told them in his Word, the Bible. To do this, they had to leave England. The laws of the land, at that time, would not allow them to worship God according to the Bible and their conscience. They put God and his Word first in their lives - before their comfort or safety. They would endure anything and everything to obey God's laws.
God did not fail them. He protected them and took them safely to their new home. In such a voyage in those days, it was very common for many of the passengers to die. Not one of the Pilgrims died. In fact, one - Oceanus - was born during the crossing.
And now, the story is in front of you. I hope you enjoy it. I hope you feel something of the fears and hopes of young Justice and Prudence. I hope you learn of the God the story speaks of. May we all be true Pilgrims!
Fare you well, as you embark on this great adventure.
Grace & Peace,
Steve
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VOYAGE TO FREEDOM
A Story of the Atlantic Crossing 1620
by David Gay - Published by Banner of Truth
The Introduction
You are standing on a narrow quayside waiting to board a small ship. You are about to make an exciting but dangerous and uncomfortable voyage. I want you to pause, just for a moment or two. There are a few things I want you to know about the story of the voyage you are about to take. I want you to have a look at the little ship, its passengers and crew, and I want you to know the reason for making such a journey.
The first thing I want you to know is that the story is true. That is, it is based on historical fact. It tells the exciting story of the historic voyage of the 100 or so Pilgrims who crossed the Atlantic ocean in 1620. Master Reynolds, John Howland and William Butten all existed. It is a true story.
But, of course, we do not have a detailed record of all that went on during the voyage. We do not know all that was said. I have tried to weave a story around four imaginary characters - the Lovelace family - to show what the voyage must have been like. It happened very much as I have tried to show it.
The voyage was hard - very hard and very, very dangerous. I have tried to show you how hard a time the Pilgrims had. The ship was very tiny. The QE2, for example, is 66,000 tons. The Mayflower was only 180 tons. If you can imagine 6 or 7 family cars parked nose to tail - that is how long (or short) she was - and only about 4 cars wide! And yet she carried 100 passengers and 20 or so crew. A crossing of the Atlantic in recent times would only take a few days - the Mayflower took 9 weeks! The passengers were crammed into a very tiny wooden ship without proper rooms, food, air, beds or sanitation. It must have been horrible! They passed through storms. They were cheated and abused. They were blown off course.
Nor must we forget that it was a tremendous risk to take. They left their familiar and friendly homes and crossed the ocean to a new, unknown and dangerous land. Remember, the longest journey most people undertook in those days was less than 30 miles from their homes - and at the speed of a horse. The Pilgrims sailed 3,000 miles!
Why did they do it?
The Pilgrims were Puritans. They wished to worship God simply - no special buildings - no special robes - no candles - no altars - no prayer books. They wished to worship God according to the way he had told them in his Word, the Bible. To do this, they had to leave England. The laws of the land, at that time, would not allow them to worship God according to the Bible and their conscience. They put God and his Word first in their lives - before their comfort or safety. They would endure anything and everything to obey God's laws.
God did not fail them. He protected them and took them safely to their new home. In such a voyage in those days, it was very common for many of the passengers to die. Not one of the Pilgrims died. In fact, one - Oceanus - was born during the crossing.
And now, the story is in front of you. I hope you enjoy it. I hope you feel something of the fears and hopes of young Justice and Prudence. I hope you learn of the God the story speaks of. May we all be true Pilgrims!
Fare you well, as you embark on this great adventure.
Banner of Truth Top 50 Sellers - Last Six Months
The countdown continues:
#31. Voyage to Freedom, by David Gay - Pilgrims for children.
#32. Lifting Up for the Downcast, by William Bridge - Encouragement.
#33. History of English Calvinistic Baptists, by Robert Oliver - Fascinating.
#34. Grow in Grace, by Sinclair Ferguson - Great for beginners.
#35. Sinfulness of Sin, by Ralph Venning - Seen for what it really is.
#36. Apostasy from the Gospel, by John Owen - Abridged.
#37. The Lord's Supper, by Thomas Watson - Appreciate it even more.
#38. Let's Study Philippians, by Sinclair Ferguson - A great series!
#39. Jerusalem Sinner Saved, by John Bunyan - Grace of forgiveness.
#40. All Loves Excelling, by John Bunyan - The love of Christ.
Numbers 21-30 will be posted next.
#31. Voyage to Freedom, by David Gay - Pilgrims for children.
#32. Lifting Up for the Downcast, by William Bridge - Encouragement.
#33. History of English Calvinistic Baptists, by Robert Oliver - Fascinating.
#34. Grow in Grace, by Sinclair Ferguson - Great for beginners.
#35. Sinfulness of Sin, by Ralph Venning - Seen for what it really is.
#36. Apostasy from the Gospel, by John Owen - Abridged.
#37. The Lord's Supper, by Thomas Watson - Appreciate it even more.
#38. Let's Study Philippians, by Sinclair Ferguson - A great series!
#39. Jerusalem Sinner Saved, by John Bunyan - Grace of forgiveness.
#40. All Loves Excelling, by John Bunyan - The love of Christ.
Numbers 21-30 will be posted next.
November 15, 2006
Banner of Truth Top 50 Sellers - Last Six Months
OK, during the next couple of days, I'll be counting down the Banner of Truth books that you have apparently been buying the most of, listed in reverse order according to the number of copies shipped during the past six months. Keep visiting; I'll soon get to #1.
#41. Discovering God's Will, by Sinclair Ferguson - Including, "Marriage?"
#42. Dying Thoughts, by Richard Baxter - Phil. 1:23, doubts/fears of dying
#43. The Christian in Complete Armour, Vol. 2 - A life-changing work.
#44. Religious Affections, by Jonathan Edwards - Revival!
#45. Communion with God, by John Owen - Made a bit easier to read.
#46. The Westminster Confession of Faith - Speaks for itself.
#47. The Christian in Complete Armour, Vol. 3 - Good to the end.
#48. The Forgotten Spurgeon, by Iain Murray - The man and his beliefs.
#49. Let's Study Mark, by Sinclair Ferguson - A GREAT series!
#50. Christian Love, by Hugh Binning - Based on John 13:35
Numbers 31-40 will be coming in the next post.
#41. Discovering God's Will, by Sinclair Ferguson - Including, "Marriage?"
#42. Dying Thoughts, by Richard Baxter - Phil. 1:23, doubts/fears of dying
#43. The Christian in Complete Armour, Vol. 2 - A life-changing work.
#44. Religious Affections, by Jonathan Edwards - Revival!
#45. Communion with God, by John Owen - Made a bit easier to read.
#46. The Westminster Confession of Faith - Speaks for itself.
#47. The Christian in Complete Armour, Vol. 3 - Good to the end.
#48. The Forgotten Spurgeon, by Iain Murray - The man and his beliefs.
#49. Let's Study Mark, by Sinclair Ferguson - A GREAT series!
#50. Christian Love, by Hugh Binning - Based on John 13:35
Numbers 31-40 will be coming in the next post.
November 14, 2006
What's Moving?
I love exhibiting at conventions because I get to hear from you who are on the receiving end of what we ship every day - fellow readers of Banner of Truth books! I've noticed a pattern, too, in what you've told me. A number of you have called several titles, "life changing," which is no insignificant label! Two of the ones regularly mentioned have been:
(1) The Christian in Complete Armour, by William Gurnall. I kid you not, at least five men have seen this 3-volume paperback set on a conference book table in the past six months, sighed, and said, "This has had such an incredible impact on my life."
(2) Letters of Samuel Rutherford. I first heard about this book in our associate pastor's study. "What's this?" I asked a while back. "Ohhhhhh," he said, "that is the most devotional book I've ever read." Others have agreed.
The conference I just returned from definitely saw some big movers. From the biographies, we sold a number of Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee and Susannah Spurgeon: Free Grace & Dying Love. I've read them both and am not surprised. The new title, They Were Pilgrims, also captured attention. It's amazing to read of God's work through those four men who all died at either 29 or 30 years of age. Of course, the pile of Valley of Vision, both paperback and leather, went down rather quickly, too. I'll check the paperwork and give you a better update soon. Plus I think I'll post our best sellers thus far this year. Any guesses as to what comes in at #1?
(1) The Christian in Complete Armour, by William Gurnall. I kid you not, at least five men have seen this 3-volume paperback set on a conference book table in the past six months, sighed, and said, "This has had such an incredible impact on my life."
(2) Letters of Samuel Rutherford. I first heard about this book in our associate pastor's study. "What's this?" I asked a while back. "Ohhhhhh," he said, "that is the most devotional book I've ever read." Others have agreed.
The conference I just returned from definitely saw some big movers. From the biographies, we sold a number of Elizabeth Prentiss: More Love to Thee and Susannah Spurgeon: Free Grace & Dying Love. I've read them both and am not surprised. The new title, They Were Pilgrims, also captured attention. It's amazing to read of God's work through those four men who all died at either 29 or 30 years of age. Of course, the pile of Valley of Vision, both paperback and leather, went down rather quickly, too. I'll check the paperwork and give you a better update soon. Plus I think I'll post our best sellers thus far this year. Any guesses as to what comes in at #1?
November 13, 2006
There's No Place Like Home!
I am back home from the CCEF convention with a bit of catching up to do, as you might imagine. But I'll get more posted here shortly.......
November 10, 2006
Greetings, from Valley Forge, PA
Banner of Truth greetings from the Convention Center in Valley Forge, PA where I've teamed up with our friends from Grace Books International, the bookstore organizers for this year's Christian Counselling & Educational Foundation conference. There's free wireless internet here so, with my laptop on one chair and me on another, here I sit behind six tables jammed with our Banner of Truth books. I love getting out and doing this sort of thing because Banner is about so much more than just selling books. There is a real desire for ministry; it's precious. I mean, already I've met Jonathan and Emily and Marty and Scott and Morgan and others. I've heard personal stories of how God has used a certain Banner book to impact their lives. I love hearing that stuff! I know it's happening every day! I've also been able to encourage a discouraged pastor, listen to a mom's story of her wayward daughter, and draw close to a guy who was open enough to share his burden about lustful thoughts that keep entering and residing in his mind. Maybe it's just me, but in addition to discussing Banner books, these events are great opportunities to reach out and touch the body of Christ.Grace & peace,
Steve
November 8, 2006
New Puritan Paperback!
Yes, indeed - Banner of Truth's Puritan Paperback series has given birth to new title - Thomas Watson's, "The Great Gain of Godliness: Practical Notes on Malachi 3:16-18." I love the story behind this one, as noted on the back of the book. C.H. Spurgeon, with his personal library of 12,000+ volumes, apparently didn't have this one by Watson, but desperately wanted it. Spurgeon is quoted as telling his college students: "This [volume] would be a great find if we could come at it, for Watson is one of the clearest and liveliest of Puritan authors. We fear we shall never see this commentary, for we have tried to obtain it, and tried in vain." Anyway, enough of the publisher's blurb - I'll get inside the book and try to give you personal "First Take" asap. Right now, however, I'm off to Valley Forge, PA until Saturday night for the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF) Conference, "Hope for Broken Relationships," at the Valley Forge Convention Center. More to come ... Grace & peace,
Steve
Steve
November 6, 2006
A Blank Valley of Vision?
My friend, Tony Reinke, over at The Shepherd's Scrapbook blog is at it again, combining books/Bibles with a good ol' fashioned table saw - Jonathan Edwards style, of course - to produce something that I wouldn't mind having myself, a blank Bible. Visit Tony's site if you don't know what that is. In the meantime, here's a little secret for you. Tony's been en
tering my Banner of Truth inbox throughout today and, based on an earlier suggestion on his blog and another from my middle daughter, I decided to send him several "The Valley of Vision" books (an incredible collection of Puritan prayers and devotions) and let him saw them apart to create a blank "The Valley of Vision!" I can't wait to see the pictures, and receive one of the first ever blank Valley of Vision books!Speaking of "The Valley of Vision," I just got off the phone with a truck driver on his way to our warehouse from the port of New York with nearly 15,000 leather Valley of Vision books. For those of you who have been waiting for your order, your wait is just about over!
Grace & peace,
Steve
ADDENDUM: They've arrived! Guess what WE will be shipping in the morning!
November 1, 2006
Banner "On-the-Road"
While I don't relish time away from home and family, I do enjoy getting out of the office and meeting many of the people who receive, read and teach from Banner of Truth books. Two such opportunities are rapidly approaching, the last two of this year. Next week, I am at the Christian Counseling and Education Foundation (CCEF) conference at the Convention Center in Valley Forge, PA (northwest of Philadelphia), November 9-11. The following week, Rob from our staff will be at the Evangelical Theological Society's (ETS) conference in Washington, DC, November 15-17, and I will probably be there for one of those days. We'll soon be building the 2007 "on the road" schedule; all suggestions welcomed.
Grace & peace,
Steve
ADDENDUM: I'm planning a northwest trip (Portland & Seattle areas) in mid-January. If any of you are in that area and want to get together, let me know. A southeast trip will probably be closer to the spring.
Grace & peace,
Steve
ADDENDUM: I'm planning a northwest trip (Portland & Seattle areas) in mid-January. If any of you are in that area and want to get together, let me know. A southeast trip will probably be closer to the spring.
Reformation Day
An Evening Reflection –
“Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, the following propositions will be discussed at Wittenberg, under the presidency of the Reverend Father Martin Luther, Master of Arts and of Sacred Theology, and Lecturer in Ordinary on the same at that place. Wherefore he requests that those who are unable to be present and debate orally with us, may do so by letter. In the name our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.”
95 theses followed, written and nailed to the door at Wittenberg. How incredibly significant. Those first 14 words are ringing in my ear this Reformation Day. I sit here wondering how I might finish the sentence ... “Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, I ______________.” God help us all to burn with like passion for the truth and the desire to bring it to light!
Grace & peace,
Steve
“Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, the following propositions will be discussed at Wittenberg, under the presidency of the Reverend Father Martin Luther, Master of Arts and of Sacred Theology, and Lecturer in Ordinary on the same at that place. Wherefore he requests that those who are unable to be present and debate orally with us, may do so by letter. In the name our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.”
95 theses followed, written and nailed to the door at Wittenberg. How incredibly significant. Those first 14 words are ringing in my ear this Reformation Day. I sit here wondering how I might finish the sentence ... “Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, I ______________.” God help us all to burn with like passion for the truth and the desire to bring it to light!
Grace & peace,
Steve
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