April 2022 New Releases
New Books and Bibles
Below is a list of the new and notable resources releasing this month from Crossway. Titles include the Gospel People by Michael Reeves and ESV Prayer Journals.
Gospel People: A Call for Evangelical Intergrity
Michael Reeves argues from a global, scriptural, and historical perspective that, while it’s not necessary to discard the label altogether, Christians must return to the root of the term—the evangel, or “gospel”—in order to understand what it truly means. He identifies the theology of evangelicalism and its essential doctrine—the Father’s revelation in the Bible, the Son’s redemption in the gospel, and the Spirit’s regeneration of the heart—calling believers to stand with integrity as people of the gospel.
“Michael Reeves has written a simple explanation of Christian faith. Reeves considers the word evangelical biblically, theologically, and historically. Gospel People is written in the best tradition of Ryle, Stott, and Packer yet reaches back to include the Puritans and the early church fathers as well. This book is simple, clear, and clarifying. Read and profit.”
—Mark Dever, Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Washington, DC
Letters Along the Way: From a Senior Saint to Junior Saint
D. A. Carson and John D. Woodbridge
Written as fictional correspondence between two men at different stages of life and faith, the novel Letters Along the Way provides important, biblical perspectives on topics such as apologetics, science and faith, inerrancy of the Bible, heart versus head faith, prayer, the changing face of evangelicalism, and trends emerging in American culture.
“When I was a relatively young believer beginning to explore a calling to pastoral ministry, my pastor encouraged me to read this book. It has become one of the most formative books for me. I’ve read it and reread it more times than I can count, and am beyond thrilled to see it being relaunched so that a new generation can enjoy its wisdom and insight. In a time sadly lacking in character and statesmanship in the church, I am confident this book will become a huge blessing to many.”
—Sam Allberry, Pastor; author, What God Has to Say about Our Bodies
Overcoming Apathy: Gospel Hope for Those that Struggle to Care
Theology professor Uche Anizor explains what apathy is and gives practical, biblical advice to break the cycle. Inspired by his conversations with young Christians as well as his own experiences with apathy, Anizor takes a fresh look at this widespread problem and its effect on spiritual maturity. First, he highlights the prevalence of apathy in our culture, using examples from TV, movies, and social media. Next, he turns to theologians, philosophers, and psychologists to further define apathy. Finally, Anizor explores causes, cures, and healthy practices to boldly overcome apathy in daily life, taking believers from spiritual lethargy to Christian zeal. This short book is an excellent resource for those struggling with apathy as well as parents, mentors, and friends who want to support someone in need.
“One of the greatest dangers for modern Christians is not apostasy but apathy. In the church, there are not masses of people who are in danger of denying Jesus, but some are in danger of growing bored with him. In Overcoming Apathy, we are met with practical ways for the church to fight back against one of our greatest challenges and we are confronted with the beauty of the gospel and the glory of King Jesus.”
—J. T. English, Lead Pastor, Storyline Fellowship, Arvada, Colorado; author, Deep Discipleship
Old Made New: A Guide to the New Testament Use of the Old Testament
In Old Made New, Greg Lanier explains how New Testament authors used the Old Testament to communicate the gospel and present the person and work of Jesus. He also explains what the Old Testament teaches Christians today about the church’s identity and ethics. Writing for a broad range of readers, Lanier distills thorough research into simple, descriptive examples and tips. His 3-step method explains how to identify and explore an Old Testament passage and see how it’s “remixed” in the New Testament to thoughtfully engage with Scripture.
“Greg Lanier has produced a fine, accessible manual on the apostles’ use of the Old Testament. Old Made New wisely instructs the reader through the maze of inner-biblical exegesis. New Testament authors carefully draw from the Old Testament to signal the fulfillment of the Bible’s story in Christ and his people.”
—Benjamin L. Gladd, Associate Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary
A Biblical Case against Theistic Evolution
In A Biblical Case against Theistic Evolution, condensed and adapted from Theistic Evolution, Wayne Grudem and other leading scholars challenge the belief that Genesis is mostly symbolic, rather than a true, historical narrative. Grudem examines 12 specific events in Genesis 1–3 and explains why acknowledging their historicity is critical to understanding the rest of Scripture. He also emphasizes several foundational doctrines, including God’s ongoing involvement in creation, the beginnings of mankind, and the origin of sin and death, to show readers how the theory of theistic evolution undermines essential truths throughout the Old and New Testaments.
“Wayne Grudem has assembled an impressive group of biblical and theological scholars to address one of the most important issues of our time. The book is especially valuable for its careful characterization of theistic evolution and the following case that theistic evolution is simply not consistent with the teachings of the Bible. I highly recommend this important book.”
—J. P. Moreland, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University; author, The God Question
ESV Prayer Journal: 30 Days on Humility
ESV Prayer Journals guide your study of a foundational Scripture topic over 30 days and create space for writing and prayer—turning your quiet time into a meditation on God's Word. Each week opens with an overview related to that week’s passage, followed by 5 days of teaching and prayer prompts. Each journal also includes space for writing, clear definitions of biblical terms, and artwork by Ruth Chou Simons.
This ESV Prayer Journal focuses on humility and how to develop a heart and mind free of pride and self-importance.
ESV Prayer Journal: 30 Days on the Gospel
This ESV Prayer Journal focuses on how to understand and articulate the gospel message.
Why Should We Love the Local Church?
In this concise version of The Loveliest Place, Dustin Benge urges Christians to see the holy assembly of God’s redeemed people in all its eternal beauty. He explains what makes the church lovely, including the Trinitarian relationship, worship, service, and gospel proclamation. For those who have never learned to view the church as God sees it, or have become disillusioned by its flaws, this book is a reminder that the corporate gathering of believers is a reflection of God’s indescribable beauty.
“Dustin Benge provides us with an absolute gem—a beautiful condensation of all that is good about the local church. With ease of prose, Benge introduces us to the multicolored facets of what the church is and how she functions to grow us into the people of God. A marvelous read.” —Derek W. H. Thomas, Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina; Teaching Fellow, Ligonier Ministries; Chancellor’s Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary
Glorification: An Introduction
In this addition to the Short Studies in Systematic Theology series, Graham A. Cole examines the concept of divine glory as well as God’s plan for redeeming individual believers, the church, and the universe. Identifying two phases of glorification—one in this life and a final transformation into Christlikeness—Cole defines the role of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the sanctification process. Through careful study of Scripture, he shows Christians how their future identity as glorified beings should impact their perspective today.
“Glorification marries brevity and breadth in a solidly biblical, theologically astute, highly accessible, and sharply focused treatise. Graham Cole both broadens a young student’s theological horizon and reignites the preaching imagination of the veteran pastor. A true pastor-theologian, Cole is humbly dependent on God’s word, graciously conversant with biblical and theological scholarship, and vitally concerned that we know the glory of God.”
—Douglas Webster, Professor of Pastoral Theology, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University
The Doctrine of Scripture: An Introduction
Despite the challenges that are often leveled against the Bible, Thompson clearly articulates what Jesus taught about the Scriptures, how God speaks to his people through the written word, the crucial work of the Holy Spirit to apply the word, and the vital attributes of Scripture—its clarity, truthfulness, sufficiency, and efficacy. Readers will find encouragement to walk according to the word and to delight in the God who speaks.
“The doctrine of Scripture remains a foundational—but also hotly contested—matter in Christian circles. Therefore there is a great need for works that are concise without omitting key issues, clear without being simplistic, and learned without being labyrinthine. Mark Thompson has provided such a work. As with other thoughtful and cogent expositions of orthodox doctrines in this series, this volume on Scripture draws on a wealth of historic and contemporary sources to provide the reader with a fine introduction to the topic. The Doctrine of Scripture will make a great volume for discussion groups or private study.”
—Carl R. Trueman, Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies, Grove City College
Polly and the Screen Time Overload
In this new picture book, readers meet Polly while on a trip to her grandparents’ farm. During her visit she spends all her time on her new tablet instead of enjoying the farm animals and playing with her cousins. A chat with her grandfather teaches her that, though screen time can be good, it can also keep kids away from better things. Using simple language and beautiful illustrations, children ages 3–7 are introduced to the idea that technology is best enjoyed within boundaries. A TGC Kids book.
“Technology—like any good tool—can go wrong when we become enslaved to it. This is a lesson today’s parents, as well as their children who are digital natives, need to hear often, and in many different ways. Polly and the Screen Time Overload is a fun, timely conversation starter for families who recognize that our media habits have as much to do with spiritual formation as they do with screen time.”
—Brett McCracken, Senior Editor, The Gospel Coalition; author, Uncomfortable and Hipster Christianity
The Church
Teach kids about the beauty of meeting together and worshiping regularly as God’s family with a fun, illustrated board book that clearly explains the core elements and practices of the church.
With colorful, modern pictures and words that are simple for little ones to understand, The Church helps parents teach kids important truths from Scripture.
“These beautiful books will help both children and parents grow in their knowledge and love for God. The Big Theology for Little Hearts series is exactly the type of resource I want to read again and again with my own kids.”
—Hunter Beless, Founder and Executive Director, Journeywomen podcast
Creation
Children often wonder how things are made and why, and that includes the world itself. In the illustrated board book Creation, they’ll learn how God designed the earth and his people with a special purpose. Kids will also hear about God’s promise of a new creation and his plan to redeem believers from their sin.
“We love board books that help our littlest children easily understand the deep truths of the gospel. With beautiful illustrations and simple definitions for theological terms, the Big Theology for Little Hearts board books are a great resource for parents who want to lay a biblical foundation for their young children.”
—Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler, Cofounders, Risen Motherhood; coauthors, Risen Motherhood: Gospel Hope for Everyday Moments
The Holy Spirit
Children often wonder how things are made and why, and that includes the world itself. In the illustrated board book Creation, they’ll learn how God designed the earth and his people with a special purpose. Kids will also hear about God’s promise of a new creation and his plan to redeem believers from their sin.
“We love board books that help our littlest children easily understand the deep truths of the gospel. With beautiful illustrations and simple definitions for theological terms, the Big Theology for Little Hearts board books are a great resource for parents who want to lay a biblical foundation for their young children.”
—Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler, Cofounders, Risen Motherhood; coauthors, Risen Motherhood: Gospel Hope for Everyday Moments