John Blackwell’s insights into transformation and togetherness will help you find your way into an astounding new world. What would it mean for me to live in a new way—with a new outlook, with completely new methods? What would this mean for my relationships? What would this mean for the ways in which I conduct myself? What manners would I change? What kinds of things would I stop saying? What kinds of things would I begin to say? Mark’s Gospel brings us right into the mystery of what it means to live as a member of God’s family. He raises the most important questions for us to ponder: What would it mean to be willing to lose my life and to take up my cross? How might I go about implementing this vision? The Gospel of Mark, the second book in the A Whole New World series, leads us into the heart of a whole new world of insight and transformation—right where we are. “This book was ministry, a gift, and a soul-tugging read. I challenge you to read this book and become spiritually transformed.” —Kyra Phillips, CNN anchor

"A Whole New World: The Gospel of Matthew" uncovers how the power of transformation works in Matthew’s Gospel, making it possible for the reader to recognize how the same power unfolds here and now.

Providing penetrating insights into the world of transformation, A Whole New World will revolutionize your understanding of the presence of God. How do we become righteous? How does the ability to do the right thing at the right time become a habit? How does life become fulfilling? These are the questions that John Blackwell answers in A Whole New World: The Gospel of Matthew. This book will give you the keys to unlock Matthew’s insight into the ways in which the power by which God raised Christ from the dead works in our lives to transform us. Your insight into Christ will be richer, more robust, more vital, and more authentic. You will discover how Christ makes us fully human. You will be able to recognize the presence of the power of God in our world—right here, right now.

A history professor told me that the earliest Protestants in America discouraged the celebration of Christmas. "It's too much fun," the Puritans reasoned, "and the Gospel of Jesus Christ requires our utmost seriousness." -- from the Introduction At a time of year which is often as stressful and exhausting as it is exhilarating, William Carter reminds us that while holiday celebrations will fade into winter gloom, Jesus Christ, the light that casts no shadow, remains at the center of our faith and lives. This collection of seventeen sermons based on the Revised Common Lectionary is for readers who wish to take the gospel seriously during a season when commercialism and social activities can be overwhelming. Carter's messages provide a wonderful interplay between the biblical text and illustrations drawn from contemporary life. He brings the sensibilities of an accomplished jazz musician to the lectionary readings, creating new melodies that arise from the established material -- some in counterpoint to the scripture, others elaborating upon the original tune. The sermons of this outstanding preacher are inspiring reading for both clergy and laypeople! Senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, William G. Carter has received national recognition for his preaching and writing, with sermons and articles appearing in Journal for Preachers, Presbyterian Survey, Preaching, Lectionary Homiletics, The Christian Ministry, and Best Sermons 7. In 1999, he was selected to preach on The Protestant Hour, an international radio ministry that reaches over two million listeners each week. He frequently leads workshops for pastors on homiletical themes and practices. A graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary, Carter serves on the seminary's board of trustees. Reverend Carter is also a highly regarded jazz pianist who has studied and performed with such noted artists as Phil Woods and Bob Brookmeyer. He has traveled widely presenting contemporary worship services and frequently weaves his music into his ministry.

The earliest of the four Gospels, the book portrays Jesus as an enigmatic figure, struggling with enemies, his inner and external demons, and with his devoted but disconcerted disciples. Unlike other gospels, his parables are obscure, to be explained secretly to his followers. With an introduction by Nick Cave

John Blackwell recounts his own spiritual journey and invites us to discover the source of life and wonder found in God’s mystery. One of the best things that can happen to any person is to connect with the Source of Life and to know God directly. Many people know about the Source. Many learn about God. The ones who learn to know God directly become more fully human. They enter into communion with the Source of Life. They learn to recognize the mysteries that are unfolding right before their eyes. They become more loving. They learn to forgive. They discover that life is filled with great wonder and astonishing beauty. Not only does your birthplace have an origin, but you can recognize it, see it, and return there from time to time. This has happened to many people. It can happen to you. Origin of My Birthplace will allow you to make your own connections and discover your own way. You can know and participate in the astonishing mystery that unfolds in your life.