Closing Shop

Having just passed another of life’s little milestones, I’ve determined to close this blog for the time being. Upon reflection, I think I add little value – most of the books I discuss are reviewed more thoroughly elsewhere. Also, I’m not great about providing new content consistently.

Most importantly, as I thought about how little time we are given, I concluded that my blog time could be better spent elsewhere. Some use this medium well and benefit many, but I have to conclude that I am not currently among that group.

Christianity Explained

I received this question in response to my recent posts over at Gazing at Glory:

Hi I noticed at the Gazing At Glory blog that you state there’s a particular book used as an evangelistic tool that is somewhat costly – now I’m curious…  Could you share the title of that book?

I’m happy to. The book I referred to is Christianity Explained, authored by Michael Bennet and published by Scripture Union. This thin, large-format paperback walks through Mark’s gospel in six studies.

The lowest price we’ve been able to find on this resource is $17 per copy. Because this is relatively expensive, but because our pastoral staff thinks it an extremely useful resource, we sell it on our bookstall for $11, sales tax included. The balance of $6.60 per copy sold is paid for by the church out of the annual budget.

This book is used by both pastors and members of our congregation as they engage in an extended study with unbelievers who are willing to consider the claims of Christ. It has been used in one on one relationships, in group Bible studies, and as an outline for public talks/seminars offered in local coffee shops.

If you look into Christianity Explained, I trust you will find it as useful as we have.

Guest Blogging at Gazing at Glory

I’m guest blogging for my friend Doug Smith over at Gazing at Glory this week. The topic of the six-part series is Selling Books in the Church. Eventually I’ll copy the posts over here as well, but head over to his site if you’d like to see them now.