{"title":"VG Retreat 2026","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"the-course-of-your-life-leaders-guide","title":"The Course of Your Life (Leader's Guide)","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod's word teaches us that all Christians are involved in God's great work in the world. We are all not only disciples of Jesus Christ, but also disciple-makers‚ each in our own way, according to our circumstances, opportunities and gifts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf this is the case, how can we teach and train Christians to catch this captivating vision of being a disciple-making disciple in every aspect of our lives?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Course of Your Life\u003c\/i\u003e aims to do just that: to revolutionize people's understanding of who God is, what he has done in Christ, what his extraordinary plans are for the world, and how that relates to each of our lives. Ultimately, this course is a biblical framework to help you fire up people with a new love and joy and enthusiasm for serving Christ as disciple-making disciples, through God's word and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Leader's Guide contains all of the content of the \u003ca title=\"Participant's Workbook\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eparticipant's Workbook\u003c\/a\u003e (so the leader does not also need a Workbook), plus information for the Leader and scripts. The accompanying \u003ca title=\"Course DVD\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDVD\u003c\/a\u003e is highly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFree downloads for the course\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe following files are mentioned in the Leader's Guide:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/COYL_sample_brochure_US.pdf?326\" title=\"invitational brochure\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInvitational brochure (PDF)\u003c\/a\u003e - to give to potential participants (US letter size)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/COYL_diagrams.ppt?325\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePowerpoint slides\u003c\/a\u003e - of the course diagram\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/COYL_sample_invitation_letter_US.doc?329\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSample invitation letter (US letter size)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/COYL_sample_invitation_letter_AU.doc?329\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSample invitation letter (A4 size)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/75139602\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInvitation video (to stream or download on Vimeo)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/COYL_sample_brochure_AU.pdf?327\" title=\"invitational brochure\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInvitational brochure (PDF)\u003c\/a\u003e - to give to potential participants (A4 size)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726393950270,"sku":"coyllg","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/COYL_leaders_11.jpg?v=1569292817"},{"product_id":"encouragement-how-words-change-lives","title":"Encouragement","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn Ephesians 4, Paul's vision of the church is where every single member speaks the truth in love.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHowever for many, our Sunday conversations rarely get past the weather, sport or what we did yesterday. And though there's nothing wrong with this, it's a bit of a pity. Especially when we are allowed in fact, we're commanded‚ to speak God's life-transforming word and thereby encourage each other.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSo what is encouragement exactly? And how does it work? In \u003ccite\u003eEncouragement: How Words Change Lives\u003c\/cite\u003e, join Gordon Cheng as he explains what encouragement is and how all of us can make one simple and foundational contribution to church life by encouraging others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis easy-to-read book is sprinkled with humor, insight and practical wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726396112958,"sku":"ehwcl","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":39726677557310,"sku":"eehwcl","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/encouragement_14_deleted_4d458fb8fc2ac2277c960863adbc09f4_RGB.jpg?v=1569292888"},{"product_id":"how-to-walk-into-church","title":"How to Walk Into Church","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've been a churchgoer for more than just a few Sundays, walking into church probably doesn't seem like it deserves its own 'how to' manual. Right? In fact, it most likely seems like a pretty straightforward and trivial weekly activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut things are rarely as simple as they seem, and how you walk into church reveals a great deal about what you think church is, what it's for, and what you think you're doing there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eHow to Walk into Church\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Payne helps us think biblically about church. Along with giving plenty of other practical advice, he suggests a way to walk into church that beautifully expresses what church is and why you're there - a way that every Christian can master.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you go to church, this book is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTony Payne is married to Alison, and they have five adult children and (at last count) four grandchildren. He is a graduate of Moore College in Sydney, and often wonders why he doesn't have more time for golf now that his children have grown up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eThis book is a great idea. It's wonderfully practical, helpful, and relevant. I hope we can give it away to our new members. Tony has given us a necessary reminder on the importance of walking into church with the right heart, the right head, and the right spirit.\u003cbr\u003e–Kevin DeYoung, Senior Pastor, University Reformed Church\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eThis outstanding book is packed with profound reflection on what church is and practical application of what it means to 'go to church'. I hope every member of St Helen's reads it‚ it will do us a world of good.\u003cbr\u003e–William Taylor, St Helen's Bishopsgate\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eSometimes the simplest things are the easiest to overlook - things like walking into church. How do you walk into church? If you read this little book, I believe you will think about it a lot differently and you will do it a lot better.\u003cbr\u003e–Tim Challies, author\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eFor most of us our churchgoing - whether regular, occasional, or non-existent - is just an unconsidered part of life. It's something we do, or sometimes do, or rarely do, or never do. But not something we think about so that we might do it with an aim, a purpose, a real intentionality. This clear and engaging book will be a real and practical help. I have myself been challenged by it and hope it will be widely read.\u003cbr\u003e–Christopher Ash, author of \"Listen Up!\" Director of Cornhill Training Course\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eHow to Walk into Church is so clear, so simple, so straightforward, so practical - and so eternally important! As such, it is a brief must-read for all Christians, and not only for today's \"My thumb is always out for a better ride\" church hitch-hikers, but for those who find attending church to be a mundane option.\u003cbr\u003e–R. Kent Hughes Senior Pastor Emeritus, College Church Wheaton\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"head accordion_toggle\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726398898238,"sku":"hwic","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":39726674935870,"sku":"ehwic","price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/how-to-walk-into-church_2048.jpg?v=1569292992"},{"product_id":"making-disciples","title":"Making Disciples","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow central should the work of disciple-making be in our daily lives and in our church culture? How do we get there? And what does it actually look like?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 8 studies in \u003cem\u003eMaking Disciples\u003c\/em\u003e will highlight the work of disciple-making as the very heart of the Bible's vision for the life of God's people. They will also:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eguide you as you explore and discuss key Bible passages\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eshow you what it might look like to be involved in this great work of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eforge the deep biblical convictions that you will need in order to commit to disciple-making\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eaddress the challenges and potential pitfalls around making disciples of Jesus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehelp you see disciple-making as both an enormous privilege and an attainable goal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColin Marshall is the author of \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"growth-groups-manual\"\u003eGrowth Groups: A training course in how to lead small groups\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e, and co-author of \u003ca href=\"the-trellis-and-the-vine\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"the-vine-project\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e. He has spent over 40 years training men and women in the ministry of the gospel, and is currently the CEO of Vinegrowers‚ a ministry that provides coaching and support to churches engaged in disciple-making culture change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"head accordion_toggle\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726400831550,"sku":"mdi","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/making-disciples-18-rgb.jpg?v=1569293080"},{"product_id":"passing-the-baton","title":"Passing the Baton","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the gospel itself, the greatest need of the Christian church is to keep finding and training people who will faithfully teach the Bible to both Christians and non-Christians. How can we discover these individuals? How can we help them develop in both Christian commitment and ministry competence? This handbook is part of the answer. It's about recruiting godly, ministry-hearted Christians, placing them under the guiding hand of an experienced minister, and giving them a two-year full-immersion experience of working for a church or related ministry. It's about \u003cem\u003eministry apprenticeship\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe insights and programs in \u003cem\u003ePassing the Baton\u003c\/em\u003e are based on 25 years of experience in running ministry apprenticeships as part of the 'Ministry Training Strategy' (MTS). This program, initiated by Colin Marshall and Phillip Jensen at the University of NSW in Sydney in the early 1980s, has been developed, copied, refined and implemented in many parts of Australia and the world, including Britain, France, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Singapore, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, and South Africa.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor many, it has been a revolution.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this convenient handbook, you'll find an introduction to the what, why and how of ministry apprenticeship, including first-hand testimonies from trainers and apprentices, and loads of detailed information and practical suggestions about how to set up, run and maintain a ministry training program in your local church or fellowship. For ministers who see the need for such training in their churches, or potential trainees who want to understand what apprenticeship is about, \u003cem\u003ePassing the Baton\u003c\/em\u003e is the place to start.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColin Marshall studied theology at Moore College and is the author of Growth Groups, a book on leading better small groups. He has spent many years involved in training others in ministry, and directed the Ministry Training Strategy until 2006.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"head accordion_toggle\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726402175038,"sku":"ptb","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/Passing_the_Baton_07.jpg?v=1569293138"},{"product_id":"prayer-and-the-voice-of-god","title":"Prayer and the Voice of God","description":"\u003cp\u003ePrayer doesn't have to be a mystery or a burden. Phillip Jensen and Tony Payne open up what God himself says to us in the Scriptures about prayer, including what prayer really is, why we should do it and why we often don't.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis insightful, practical book offers powerful motivations to get us back on our knees and praying, as well as helpful discussions of what to pray for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a clear, readable guide for new Christians wanting to get started in prayer, or longer-serving Christians whose prayer lives are wilting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the authors\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhillip Jensen was the Dean of Sydney at St Andrew's Cathedral, and serves as a well-known Bible teacher and gifted evangelist at Two Ways Ministries. He is married to Helen. For more resources by Phillip Jensen, visit \u003ca href=\"phillipjensen.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ephillipjensen.com\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#333333\"\u003eSince founding Matthias Media in 1988, Tony Payne has written more than 30 books, ministry courses and Bible studies, including \u003ci\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/i\u003e, \u003ci\u003eThe Course of Your Life, \u003c\/i\u003eand \u003ci\u003eThe Tony Payne Collection \u003c\/i\u003e(an anthology of articles and essays). \u003c\/span\u003eHe is currently a ministry trainer and writer-in-residence at Campus Bible Study (UNSW), and a visiting lecturer at Moore College. His weekly newsletter and podcast with Phillip Jensen is \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.twoways.news\/\"\u003eTwo Ways News\u003c\/a\u003e. With his wife, Ali, he has five adult children and eight grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726402240574,"sku":"pvog2","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":39726671757374,"sku":"epvog","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/Prayer-and-the-Voice-of-God-19-rgb.jpg?v=1569293150"},{"product_id":"six-steps-to-encouragement-workbook","title":"Six Steps to Encouragement (Workbook)","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod has given every Christian an enormous privilege and gift: the power to speak his life-changing word into the lives of other people. There's no reason at all for there to be 'passengers' in a church: every Christian can change the lives of those around them through knowing and telling the message of God's grace, whether in front of a group, in a hand-written note, in a one-to-one conversation over morning tea, or in a thousand other ways. Every Christian can be a channel of encouragement. In \u003cem\u003eSix Steps to Encouragement\u003c\/em\u003e you'll learn the why and how of personal encouragement. Through video input, Bible study, practical examples, discussions and hands-on exercises, you'll discover how to bring life, hope and strength to those around you by bringing the powerful word of God to them. You'll also work through practical case studies such as welcoming newcomers, listening, rebuking, and dealing with suffering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eSix Steps to Encouragement\u003c\/em\u003e is a six-session course, best undertaken in a small group (of 6-10 people). To run the course you will need: a workbook for each person, which also contains notes for group leaders; and the \u003ca href=\"six-steps-to-encouragement-dvd\"\u003ecourse DVD\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.vhx.tv\/products\/six-steps-to-encouragement\"\u003eVimeo content\u003c\/a\u003e to use in the group.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGordon Cheng is married to Fiona and has three daughters. He has studied psychology and theology, and worked with uni students and as a minister in several parishes in Melbourne and Sydney. He is interested in choral and piano music, writing letters to newspapers, and reading church history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eSix Steps to Encouragement\u003c\/em\u003e is a course that deserves to see wide usage. Like Two Ways to Live, it is well-rounded, flexible, thoroughly biblical, and will enable many to speak God's word to others with confidence and courage.\"  - Southern Cross Magazine\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout downloadable files and group licenses\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIf you wish to share copies of the study with others, or plan to read out the questions or explanatory text to a group, consider a group license. A group license allows for up to 15 copies of a PDF to be shared within one growth group, making it quick and easy to organize. Otherwise, adjust the quantity you're buying to match the number of people participating. Volume discounts still apply to digital files, and these discounts will be automatically applied at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003ePlease read the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mattthiasmedia-au.myshopify.com\/pages\/download_licence\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003elicense information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726403584062,"sku":"sste","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"PDF","offer_id":39726670512190,"sku":"esste","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"PDF Group License","offer_id":39731304857662,"sku":"licsste","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/Six_Steps_to_Encouragement_workbook_08_NEWrgb_aa0641ba-3265-4d5c-aa7c-2a3427d740bc.jpg?v=1569293205"},{"product_id":"six-steps-to-loving-your-church-workbook","title":"Six Steps to Loving Your Church (Workbook)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome of us really love our churches, some of us aren’t so positive, and for many of us that feeling can change from week to week.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis six-session program is about how to love your church whether you’re feeling enthusiastic about it or not. It’s about the mindset we take with us as we go to church each week, and how that mindset is expressed in a multitude of ways, big and small. In particular, it’s about the part that we all play as God’s people in loving, serving and building each other up, Sunday by Sunday. We all have a ministry—the ministry of the pew.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOver the six sessions of the course you will cover subjects such as:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003eyour current attitudes towards church, and how they are expressed\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003ewhat the Bible says about the meaning and purpose of church\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003ewhat it means to love your church and the people who go there\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003ehow all of us can be active encouraging servants before, during and after church, rather than just consumers or spectators.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach session contains a mix of discussion, Bible study, video input and prayer, along with simple exercises to help you put the ideas into practice on Sunday.:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSix Steps to Loving Your Church\u003c\/em\u003e is a course best undertaken in a small group (of 3-8 people).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo run the course you will need a copy of the workbook for each person and a copy of the course video material on DVD or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.vhx.tv\/products\/six-steps-to-loving-your-church\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVimeo\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout downloadable files and group licences\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you wish to share copies of the study with others, or plan to read out the questions or explanatory text to a group, consider a group license. A group license allows for up to 15 copies of a PDF to be shared within one growth group, making it quick and easy to organize. Otherwise, adjust the quantity you're buying to match the number of people participating. Volume discounts still apply to digital files, and these discounts will be automatically applied at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease read the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mattthiasmedia-au.myshopify.com\/pages\/download_licence\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 233);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003elicence information\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726403649598,"sku":"sstlyc","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"PDF","offer_id":39731931545662,"sku":"esstlyc","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"PDF Group License","offer_id":39731931742270,"sku":"licsstlyc","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/Six_Steps_Loving_Your_Church_book_15.jpg?v=1569293212"},{"product_id":"the-vine-project-workshop-dvd","title":"The Vine Project Workshop (DVD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"the-vine-project\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e is a book‚ it has paper and print and can be read from cover to cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut it's actually much \u003ci\u003emore\u003c\/i\u003e than a book. It's a roadmap for adjusting the culture of your church toward making disciples. In other words, it's not a book to be simply read, but a process for a leadership team to undertake in order to plan and implement change over many months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2017, Tony Payne and Marty Sweeney ran a series of workshops across the USA for church leaders who were considering, or had already embarked upon, \u003ci\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/i\u003e journey. And the last of these workshops was captured on video.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo now any church leadership team can get a head start on that same journey by participating in a one-day workshop together using the \u003ca href=\"the-vine-project-workshop-booklet\"\u003eworkbook \u003c\/a\u003eand the four video sessions containing a total of around 4 and a half hours of valuable content and guidance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony and Marty will provide you with an overview of the main principles, guide you through the key steps, offer insights and ideas for solving common issues, and illustrate with a concrete example from real-life experience of one of the churches that has been implementing change for over five years. They'll also get your team started on the process of evaluating and innovating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a highly recommended first step on the path to a new disciple-making culture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"DVD","offer_id":39726405189694,"sku":"tvpdvd","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/Vine_Project_Workshop_DVD.jpg?v=1569293285"},{"product_id":"the-vine-project-workshop-booklet","title":"The Vine Project Workshop (Booklet)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"the-vine-project\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e is a book‚ it has paper and print and can be read from cover to cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut it's actually much \u003ci\u003emore\u003c\/i\u003e than a book. It's a roadmap for adjusting the culture of your church toward making disciples. In other words, it's not a book to be simply read, but a process for a leadership team to undertake in order to plan and implement change over many months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2017, Tony Payne and Marty Sweeney ran a series of workshops across the USA for church leaders who were considering, or had already embarked upon, \u003ci\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/i\u003e journey. And the last of these workshops was captured on video.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo now any church leadership team can get a head start on that same journey by participating in a one-day workshop together using this workbook and \u003ca href=\"the-vine-project-workshop-dvd\"\u003ethe four video sessions\u003c\/a\u003e containing a total of around 4 and a half hours of valuable content and guidance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony and Marty will provide you with an overview of the main principles, guide you through the key steps, offer insights and ideas for solving common issues, and illustrate with a concrete example from real-life experience of one of the churches that has been implementing change for over five years. They'll also get your team started on the process of evaluating and innovating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a highly recommended first step on the path to a new disciple-making culture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726405156926,"sku":"tvpbook","price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"PDF","offer_id":40372350058558,"sku":"etvpbook","price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/The_Vine_Project_Workshop_booklet_17_rgb.jpg?v=1569293286"},{"product_id":"the-thing-is","title":"The Thing Is","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"The thing is.\" That's what we say when we are at last getting to the point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bushes have been beaten around, the chase has been cut to, and we are finally getting to the thing we've been avoiding but that now needs to be spoken.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is that thing for you? What is the thing that makes sense of your life but that you don't often talk about? What is the point of it all, the purpose, the real reason you get out of bed in the morning?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the author of \u003ci\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/i\u003ecomes an opportunity to pause and take stock of our lives, and to discover the life-changing purpose that God has for each one of us. Not some vague-Christian-cliche purpose; but a purpose that is clear and real enough to drive the decisions we make and the way we live our lives from this point on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#333333\"\u003eSince founding Matthias Media in 1988, Tony Payne has written more than 30 books, ministry courses and Bible studies, including \u003ci\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/i\u003e, \u003ci\u003eThe Course of Your Life \u003c\/i\u003eand \u003ci\u003eThe Tony Payne Collection \u003c\/i\u003e(an anthology of articles and essays). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe is currently a \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLecturer in Christian Thought (Ethics), and also he has resumed Directorship of Moore College’s \u003ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/ccl.moore.edu.au\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCentre for Christian Living (CCL)\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith his wife, Ali, he has five adult children and eight grandchildren.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726404993086,"sku":"tti2","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":39726667825214,"sku":"etti2","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/TheThingIs20rgb72dpi.jpg?v=1602256491"},{"product_id":"how-to-read-the-bible-better","title":"How to Read the Bible Better","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcited? Daunted? Curious?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you feel about the Bible?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo matter how you feel about the world's bestselling book, we can all use a guiding hand to help us make the most of our Bible reading. In this short, readable book, pastor and preacher Richard Chin offers you a step-by-step guide to better Bible reading: how to make sense of the Scriptures, how to avoid the most common pitfalls, and how to let God's word shape your life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDownload the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0147\/1830\/4342\/files\/HRBBmediakit.zip?v=1627515399\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emedia kit\u003c\/a\u003e to get material that you can use to talk about the book with your church or group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRichard Chin is married to Jeanette, and is the father of four children walking in Christ. He serves as National Director of the Australian Fellowship of Evangelical Students, and loves proclaiming Jesus to the nations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Richard Chin has written a great guide to reading the Bible. Is that something you've thought of doing this year? Reading this very short book will help you read that longer book‚ the Bible‚ better. In this book you'll find simple, direct help, short and useful, sane, clear, and basic. So much wisdom packed into so few pages! Chin has been reading his Bible for a long time, and can help us do it, too.\"\u003cbr\u003e- Mark Dever, Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Washington DC, President, 9marks.org\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Richard's writing is always wonderfully clear and straightforward, and this work is no exception. This is a great resource to put into the hands of disciplers, new Christians, and, really, any church member looking to grow in the faith. Here is a short book to help us read The Book even better.\"\u003cbr\u003e- Kevin DeYoung, Senior Pastor, Christ Covenant Church, Matthews, NC\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"The apostle Peter urges his readers, like newborn babies, to crave the wordy milk so that you may grow up in your salvation. This outstanding book not only helps us to read and understand the Bible better; it also left me longing to study it more. It covers complex material with characteristic clarity and winsome appeal. There are so many good lessons well taught. Reading the book and putting it into practice will leave us craving God's word and growing to maturity. I wholeheartedly recommend it.\"\u003cbr\u003e- William Taylor, Rector, St Helen's Bishopsgate, London, UK\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Reading and living in the light of the written word that God has given is both a challenge and an enormous privilege. All sorts of pressures are trying to fix our attention elsewhere. Yet it is the word of God that shapes lives and builds churches. Richard Chin's little book will encourage you to read and teach the Bible, to listen attentively to these words God has given us, to delight in the Bible as well as to bend every effort to live it to the full. If the Bible seems a strange and threatening word to you, buy this book and be encouraged. If you are tempted to set aside the Bible in order to speak the words our neighbors want to hear and in the tone in which they want to hear them, buy this book and stand firm at this point. If you want to be reminded why the ministry of the word of God is the most important work there is in the world, buy this book and recapture the vision of life lived with and under the word of the living God. \"\u003cbr\u003e- Mark D Thompson, Principal, Moore Theological College, Sydney\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Richard Chin packs everything you want in a book about the Bible into this small, accessible volume. This book isn't just a how-to manual for sound interpretation (though it is that!); it's also a glorious meditation on the worth of God's word, an encouragement to humble our hearts before God, and an invitation to see how Jesus fulfills God's promises and how every passage of Scripture unfolds the gospel of our Lord. If you love the Bible, you should get this book. If you love to teach others how to read the Bible better, you should buy multiple copies and give them away.\"\u003cbr\u003e- Sam Emadi, Senior Editor, 9Marks.org\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"One of the most pressing needs we face as evangelicals in Australia today is to read our Bibles more and better. Richard has given us a brilliant resource (which is both a shot in the arm and a kick in the pants!) to throw ourselves into grappling with what God has said to us in his word with fresh energy and focus.\"\u003cbr\u003e- Principal, Queensland Theological College, Co-author, \u003ci\u003eSaving Eutychus\u003c\/i\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Store up this gem of a book in your spiritual treasure chest! Richard Chin has written a delightful book filled with insight about reading the word of God. Don't let the brevity fool you‚ it's deep, clever, and fun. In a world that increasingly uses the Bible poorly, every Christian should read this book. It is so full of scriptural insight that, as I read, I found myself not just learning how to read the Bible better, but worshipping the one who gave us the Bible.\"\u003cbr\u003e- J Mack Stiles, Pastor, Erbil International Baptist Church, Iraq, Author, \u003ci\u003eMarks of the Messenger\u003c\/i\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39726398832702,"sku":"hrbb","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":39726667628606,"sku":"ehrbb","price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/HowtoReadtheBibleBetter21rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1626375767"},{"product_id":"the-vine-project","title":"The Vine Project","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this much-anticipated book, Colin Marshall and Tony Payne answer the question they have been asked countless times by pastors and church leaders all around the world since the publication of \u003ci\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/i\u003e. The question goes like this:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"Look, I've read your book, and it expresses what I have always thought about Christian ministry. But as I kept reading, I had this sinking feeling that what actually happens in our church is still a long way from the kind of disciple-making ministry vision you outline and that I believe in. So my question is this: What can we do about it? How can we shape the whole culture of our church around disciple-making?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/i\u003e, Marshall and Payne provide a roadmap and resources for this sort of church-wide culture change. The book guides your ministry leadership team through a five-phase process for growth and change, with biblical input, practical ideas, resources, case studies, exercises and projects along the way. You will be helped to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eclarify and sharpen your convictions (Phase 1)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ereform your own personal life to express these convictions (Phase 2)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehonestly evaluate every aspect of your current church (or ministry) culture (Phase 3)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edevise some key plans for change and put them into effect (Phase 4)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ekeep the momentum going and overcome obstacles (Phase 5).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/i\u003e proposed a \"ministry mind-shift that changes everything\". \u003ci\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/i\u003e shows how that mind-shift can and must shape every aspect of what you are doing as a congregation of Christ's people to make disciples of all nations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/the-vine-project-workshop-booklet\"\u003eA workshop version is also available.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eIt’s the sequel to \"The Trellis and the Vine\" (2009). Though it includes a fresh restatement of the earlier book, it stands on its own. The central premise, accurate and convicting, is that churches tend to slide imperceptibly into trellis maintenance (systems, structures, programs, and so on) to the neglect of vine-cultivation (spiritual vitality through speaking the Word to each other). The Vine Project supplies the “how” to the earlier book’s “what”. I’m immediately suspicious of books that claim to chart a way toward spiritual health through programmed steps. But this book succeeds and can’t be written off as frothily naïve in its articulation of four stages to nurture a disciple-making culture in our churches. Encouraging, realistic, accessible, non-formulaic, theologically conscientious, pervasively biblical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Dane Ortlund, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.thegospelcoalition.org\/article\/important-books-pastors-2010s\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\"Most Important Books for Pastors from the 2010s\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThe biblical principles of discipleship and 'disciple-making' outlined in 'The Trellis and the Vine' should be worked through in all our churches with every member. This most helpful sequel provides not only further expansion on the vital principles of Christian service, but also valuable practical lessons on how to generate a whole church culture of 'learner-disciples'. The biblical material is excellent. The practical tips are instructive. The everyday examples put real flesh on the bone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—William Taylor Rector, St Helen's Bishopsgate, London\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThis is a unique book - it somehow manages to be relentlessly biblical, deeply challenging, utterly realistic and profoundly encouraging at the same time. Col and Tony have not only thought more about the life of the local church more than anyone else I know, they have also listened to people (especially pastors) from all over the world, and so have produced a book which is thoroughly humble, sane, flexible and practical. 'The Vine Project' models a way ahead which is both radical and manageable for the local church, and rather than making me feel guilty or depressed, reading it invigorated me and refreshed my passion for gospel ministry 'on the ground'!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Gary Millar Principal, Queensland Theological College Chair, The Council of The Gospel Coalition Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eSix years in the writing and sixty years in the making. I don't think you'll find a better book on discipleship and church growth, which marries firm Biblical foundations with extensive practical advice. Clear, sensitive, and thought-provoking 'The Vine Project' will continue to enhance the global revolution in church life and ministry begun with 'The Trellis and the Vine'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Mike Raiter, Director, Centre for Biblical Preaching, Melbourne\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e'The Vine Project' takes you beneath technique and program to the heart of what matters in church life. And it does this in a way that is immensely practical. The book is so helpful, I think I can offer an ironclad guarantee that if you and a leadership team work through this book, things will change for the better. I guarantee there will also be pain! But it will be healthy pain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Andrew Heard Lead Pastor, EV Church, Erina, Australia Director, Geneva Push church planting network President, Fellowship Independent Evangelical Churches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39739146174526,"sku":"tvp2","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":39739281571902,"sku":"etvp2","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/VineProject21rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1649433868"},{"product_id":"busy","title":"Busy","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeling overworked? Too much on your plate? Hoping there must be a better way? Then surely you need greater efficiency, better time management techniques, the right apps, the resolve to simply push through, guidance from a guru or influencer …\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what if the change we really crave is found somewhere entirely different?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we make our way in this hectic, confused culture, our greatest need is the practical, life-changing wisdom that only our Creator can provide. We need to pause and look to God—who he is, who he has made us to be, and how the good news of Jesus can genuinely reorder our daily lives for the better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin Ian Carmichael as he explores the Bible in search of a better way to handle our busy lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso available: the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/busy-group-bible-study\" target=\"_blank\"\u003efree group Bible study\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/busy-group-bible-study-leader-notes\" target=\"_blank\"\u003efree leader's notes\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eListen to an interview with the author on Pilgrim Radio:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"player\"\u003e\u003caudio controls=\"controls\"\u003e\n\u003csource src=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.info\/shopify-files\/pilgrim-radio-busy-interview.mp3\" type=\"audio\/mpeg\"\u003e\u003c\/audio\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIan Carmichael has been with Matthias Media from its beginnings in 1988, co-leading with Tony Payne for many of those years. Ian stepped down from the CEO role in late 2020, and now contributes in an honorary capacity. Ian and his wife, Stephanie, are part of Chatswood Presbyterian Church in Sydney, as well as Unichurch at the University of NSW.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eBusy\u003c\/em\u003e offers a unique take on busyness and one that strikes to the very heart of our God-given purpose. It is a book that blessed and challenged me and, I trust, one that will bless and challenge you as well. I am glad to recommend it.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Tim Challies (read the full review at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.challies.com\/book-reviews\/the-overloaded-christian-life\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eChallies.com\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"Reading the book feels like meeting a helpful friend. Carmichael is down to earth, conversational, and personable, guiding us through a biblical perspective on the world we live in, the God who made it, and our busyness. The lack of “magic bullets” does mean it takes nine chapters for the book to start feeling more practical, but that’s okay. The goal is a proper perspective, not just a bunch of strategies.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Aidan Smith (read the full review at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/au.thegospelcoalition.org\/book-review\/busyness-following-in-gods-footsteps\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eThe Gospel Coalition\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"Ian Carmichael speaks into our common slavery to busyness, and charts the only road to freedom—not by providing more tips on time management, but by thinking deeply about who we are as humans, and understanding God’s busyness in his plan of redemption. Ian shows us that we are slaves to busyness because we don’t believe the gospel. He is disarmingly honest, confronting and warmly conversational at the same time, anticipating our questions and objections. He provides very practical reflections for personal change towards godly busyness for employees, church members, parents, children, husbands, wives and siblings. I can see radical implications for how we think about retirement. This book is comprehensive.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Colin Marshall, author and trainer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"Ian Carmichael’s book \u003cem\u003eBusy\u003c\/em\u003e is refreshingly clear and to the point. It helps us re-examine the purpose of life while we wait for the new creation—that is, Christ-directed busyness and rest. Ian’s relationship audit exercise is insightful and practical for applying the biblical principles given in the first half of the book:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eStep 1: Identify our key relationships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eStep 2: Reflect on how we can be more intentional in seeing these precious people transferred into God’s kingdom and transformed into the likeness of Jesus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eMedical experts recommend booking annual health checks. I recommend buying and reading this book as an excellent yearly spiritual health check.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Carmelina Read, Dean of Women, Christ College, Sydney\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"Ian Carmichael’s \u003cem\u003eBusy\u003c\/em\u003e is a wonderful read. It’s full of biblical wisdom, warmth, humour and grace. Most importantly it will help you think about how God’s kindness in Jesus rearranges our priorities and helps us be busy in a healthy way for God. It’s a book born of a life lived serving Jesus and putting the Bible into practice. It’s a book that will encourage you to rest in God, work hard for Christ, and put busyness into perspective. I encourage you to grab a copy, read it, and live it! It might just turn ‘busy’ into joyful service.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Paul Grimmond, Dean of Students and Lecturer in Ministry and Mission, Moore Theological College, Sydney\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eBusy\u003c\/em\u003e is not what I expected but it’s exactly what I needed, and I suspect it’s what many of us need. Challenging me to rethink not only Monday-Fridays, Ian also really pushed me to think again about my Sundays (and I say this as a pastor!). I pray this book will be given to every Christian, from new to mature, with the hope that all of them will consider how they themselves are answers to the prayer of Matthew 9:37-38—a call to be busy with work for the harvest.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Marty Sweeney, Pastor of Training, Old North Church, Ohio, and Executive Director, Matthias Media, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":39752278966334,"sku":"busy","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Digital Book","offer_id":40125680943166,"sku":"ebusy","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/products\/B-2021-cov-s3.jpg?v=1651024020"},{"product_id":"share-the-gospel","title":"Share the Gospel","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens when God gives you an opportunity to talk about Christianity or the gospel in everyday conversation? Do you smoothly explain who Jesus is and what he has done, feeling confident to answer any questions that come your way? Or do you fumble or freeze up, not really knowing what to say and feeling nervous about how it will be received?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eLearn Together\u003c\/strong\u003e book will teach and train you to share the gospel of Jesus with other people, naturally, confidently, clearly and faithfully, in your own unique way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eShare the Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e uses the well-known gospel outline \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/a\u003e as a framework, and is the sequel to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/learn-the-gospel\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLearn the Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eWe recommend that you work through \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/learn-the-gospel\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLearn the Gospel \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003ebefore tackling this book, or at least be reasonably familiar with the \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e outline.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore information and the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/share-the-gospel-videos?SkipCozyRedirect=yes\"\u003efree accompanying videos\u003c\/a\u003e are at the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/share-the-gospel\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eShare the Gospel site\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFree downloadables\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0147\/1830\/4342\/files\/Two_Ways_to_Live_memory_guide_A4.pdf?v=1703711051\" title=\"Two Ways to Live memory guide\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e memory guide (A4)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0147\/1830\/4342\/files\/Two_Ways_to_Live.txt?v=1703711071\" title=\"Two Ways to Live text file\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e text file\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Payne is known around the world as a Christian teacher and writer. He is the author (or co-author) of many popular books and resources, including \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/how-to-walk-into-church\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHow to Walk Into Church\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/guidance-and-the-voice-of-god\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGuidance and the Voice of God\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":40085930115134,"sku":"stg","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/SharetheGospel23rgb72dpi.jpg?v=1685476087"},{"product_id":"the-christian-gospel","title":"The Christian Gospel","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe teaching of Jesus and his followers has been undeniably influential in our world. It has deeply shaped our Western society, and has almost certainly shaped \u003cem\u003eyou\u003c\/em\u003e, even if you’re not particularly conscious of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich is all a bit strange, because that teaching is largely focused on the meaning of Jesus’ death on a Roman cross, and the surprising claim that he had risen from the dead. How does this centuries-old message have anything to do with our lives today?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe answer is found in exploring other questions: Why was the title ‘Christ’ added to the name of this man Jesus? Everyone dies, so why was \u003cem\u003ehis\u003c\/em\u003e death so significant? Is it believable that he rose from the dead, and why does it matter?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMore to the point, is any of this strange message even true? And if it is, does it really bring the peace, joy and hope that Jesus promised and to which his followers testify?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese are the questions Tony Payne answers for you—directly and compellingly—in this short and highly readable book.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eTony Payne is known around the world as a Christian writer and teacher. He is the author (or co-author) of many popular books and resources, including \u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eLearn the Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003ePrayer and the Voice of God\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eRecommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e has been used by God, I dare say, to bring thousands of people to faith in Christ. Praise God! Tony Payne has written a characteristically clear and engaging explanation of the gospel using the framework of 2WTL in a brief booklet format. He explains that he has written it to help people understand \u003cem\u003ethemselves\u003c\/em\u003e (in the sense of where so many of our late modern Western cultural values derive from) and understand \u003cem\u003eJesus\u003c\/em\u003e well enough to decide to base their life on him. Or at least, take another step in considering doing so. I agree with Tony that many, many people are still open to considering the Christian gospel, and that many have never really heard it. Here’s an easy giveaway that will address that gap by providing the reader with a contemporary, conversational and reliable exposition of the heart of the gospel, the death and resurrection of Jesus, and why it matters.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Kanishka Raffel, Anglican Archbishop of Sydney\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"I am convinced that every Church would be helped to stay on mission if even one good evangelistic book was published each year. I think this, for no other reason than it would provide all of us something fresh to give away to our friends and neighbors who don't yet know Jesus. I am grateful that for this year anyway, Tony Payne has given us just such a book!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—David Helm, Pastor, Christ Church Chicago; Chairman, The Charles Simeon Trust\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\"A few years ago I had the opportunity to speak about the Christian faith in front of a group of high schoolers. It struck me as I did so that these young people had not rejected the gospel—they had never even heard it! They knew nothing of Jesus, nothing of the Bible, nothing of the good news he proclaimed. Such is the reality in an increasingly secular society. And it is right here that \u003cem\u003eThe Christian Gospel\u003c\/em\u003e can be so helpful, since it takes nothing for granted. In that way it’s an evangelistic resource for this day and these people.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Tim Challies, Author and blogger\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":40091254227006,"sku":"tcg","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":41320380694590,"sku":"etcg","price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/ChristianGospel23rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1686674113"},{"product_id":"growth-and-change","title":"Growth and Change","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor many years, evangelical church leaders have been told that the key to seeing gospel growth is to “just be faithful”. In \u003cem\u003eGrowth and Change\u003c\/em\u003e, Andrew Heard challenges this misconception head-on with wisdom from decades of ministry experience and deep theological reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRichly biblical and heartfelt, this ground-breaking book confronts sacred cows, rejects easy answers and addresses the tensions felt by every leader who wants to proactively work for change while remaining absolutely committed to the word of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a must-read for every church leader committed to seeing the gospel of Jesus grow and bear fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“I honestly believe this could prove to be one of the most important books (after the Bible, of course) for church leaders in our time.”—Richard Coekin\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“How can we care about growing a church and not lose our theological moorings in the process? Andrew Heard shows us the way.”—Ed Stetzer\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Andrew Heard is well known and well trusted in Australia, his homeland. Now we pray that his influence may multiply exponentially around the world.”—D.A. Carson\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“A stirring call to radically rethink our trellises for the sake of growing the vine.”—Tony Payne\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Every leader of a church or Christian organization should read this.”—Robert S. Kinney\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForeword by DA Carson\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1. Change and the unchanging God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2. The danger of a passion for growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3. The necessity of a passion for growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4. The importance of numbers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5. Rethinking our priorities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6. Tying together the threads (so far)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7. Bearing the weight of responsibility\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8. Living with the tensions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9. Theologically principled pragmatism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10. Freedom and boundaries in church life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11. Freedom and boundaries for pastors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12. Leading with outcomes at the centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13. Dealing with the pressure of ministry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConclusion: Do not stoop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix: Five foundations for ministry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eAndrew Heard has been involved in Christian ministry for nearly 30 years. In 1996, together with his wife Cathie, he established a new church on the Central Coast of NSW, now called EV Church, where he serves as Lead Pastor. In 2005 he was elected as founding President of the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches. This association contains churches in most states of Australia, with more being added each year. In 2009 he became a founding director of Geneva Push, a church planting network that aims to see hundreds of new churches started around Australia. He is now Chairman of Reach Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":40564643659838,"sku":"gac","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":41120164216894,"sku":"egac","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/GAC_koorong.jpg?v=1709222776"},{"product_id":"the-trellis-and-the-vine","title":"The Trellis and the Vine","description":"\u003cp\u003eAll Christian ministry is a mixture of trellis and vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is vine work: the prayerful preaching and teaching of the word of God to see people converted and grow to maturity as disciples of Christ. Vine work is the Great Commission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd there is trellis work: creating and maintaining the physical and organizational structures and programs that support vine work and its growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat’s the state of the trellis and the vine in your part of the world? Has trellis work taken over, as it has a habit of doing? Is the vine work being done by very few (perhaps only the pastor and only on Sundays)? And is the vine starting to wilt as a result?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe image of the trellis and the vine raises all the fundamental questions of Christian ministry:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat is the vine for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow does the vine grow?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow does the vine relate to my church?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat is vine work and what is trellis work, and how can we tell the difference?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat part do different people play in growing the vine?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow can we get more people involved in vine work?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e, Colin Marshall and Tony Payne answer these urgent questions afresh. They dig back into the Bible’s view of Christian ministry, and argue that a major mind-shift is required if we are to fulfill the Great Commission of Christ, and see the vine flourish again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis latest edition of \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e contains a discussion guide for groups and ministry teams working through it together, a list of recommended resources, and an index of Bible verses referenced throughout the text.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've been convinced by \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e, then the next step is \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/the-vine-project\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Vine Project\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":40634708754494,"sku":"tatv3","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":40634736803902,"sku":"etatv3","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/TheTrellisandtheVine23rgb72dpi.jpg?v=1711039746"},{"product_id":"mastered-by-the-word","title":"Mastered By the Word","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs evangelicals, we love to describe our churches as “good, Bible-teaching churches”, well-pleased that our pastors preach solid, exegetical sermons—that we are the ‘Bible guys’. Yet we often leave our kids and youth ministry teams, our Bible study leaders, and others doing important word ministry to muddle their way through without much guidance or training on how to do it well.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBut exegesis—reading out the meaning there in the text—is a critical process that anyone teaching God’s word to others can and should be thinking through. We must be mastered by the word before we wield it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eMastered by the Word\u003c\/em\u003e, Craig Hamilton explains how to deeply and rightly read and understand the Bible by considering important issues such as context, genre, key words, Old Testament quotations, history, theology, and more. At the end of each step, he gives a masterclass on how to apply what has been covered by showing his working when exegeting the account in Mark 5 of Jesus’ interaction with the demon-possessed man.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCraig is passionate about equipping every Christian to uncover all they can from a passage of Scripture and become better teachers of God’s word. This step-by-step guide will take you by the hand so that what seems intimidating and only relevant for Bible college graduates becomes an intuitive process for all.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eCraig Hamilton is a graduate of Moore Theological College, and is the senior minister at Pitt Town Anglican. He is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/products\/wisdom-in-leadership\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWisdom in Leadership\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/products\/wisdom-in-leadership-development\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWisdom in Leadership Development\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/products\/made-man\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMade Man\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe purpose of exegesis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe process of exegesis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 1: Testament context\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 2: Biblical theology context\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 3: Genre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 4: My questions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 5: Structural context\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 6: Geography\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 7: Connecting words\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 8: Key words and Old Testament quotations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 9: Historical background\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 10: The big idea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 11: Theology\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStep 12: Look out\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe posture of exegesis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":41261790396478,"sku":"mbtw","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook","offer_id":41307569717310,"sku":"embtw","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/PXL_20250314_133607690.jpg?v=1742909443"},{"product_id":"learn-the-gospel","title":"Learn the Gospel","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether building a house or building a life, solid, square and true foundations are vital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re just starting out in the Christian life—or considering it—you want to get those foundations in place from the start. Even if you’ve been a Christian for a while, it’s important to occasionally check your foundations—they might have shifted or been attacked by white ants, or perhaps they weren’t laid quite as straight as you originally thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this \u003cstrong\u003eLearn Together\u003c\/strong\u003e book, we’ll thoroughly inspect our gospel foundations and make our understanding of that gospel sound and biblical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough reading, studying the Bible, watching some video input and discussing what we’re learning together, we’ll go deep into the gospel of Jesus Christ—understanding each of its parts, how they fit together, and what implications the gospel has for our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e grown into a study book for small groups and classes. Each of the six points are fleshed out with Bible study, discussion and video and text input.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEasy to run\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilds a fundamental understanding in participants of what it means to be a Christian\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdaptable to many contexts and uses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccompanied by free videos\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExplores and critiques gospel alternatives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Payne is known around the world as a Christian teacher and writer. He is the author (or co-author) of many popular books and resources, including \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/how-to-walk-into-church\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHow to Walk Into Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/guidance-and-the-voice-of-god\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eGuidance and the Voice of God\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":41302167257150,"sku":"ltg2","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/LearntheGospel22rgb150dpi_1_5eedc6c5-6397-4070-afd5-e7d95955aaf6.jpg?v=1762360836"},{"product_id":"the-team-leaders-handbook","title":"The Team Leader's Handbook","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collateral-box\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"accordion_content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ve all had the unfortunate experience of being in a team with poor leadership. But nobody wants to be that sort of leader, so when we’re asked to step up and lead a gospel ministry—where eternal futures are at stake—it can seem pretty daunting.\u003cbr\u003eBut you’re not on your own. From his wealth of leadership wisdom and experience, Dave Moore shares:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewhy good leadership matters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewhat good leaders do—always, regularly and often\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epractical tips, real-life examples and useful leadership tools.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e is a highly accessible must-read guide for any current or future leader of a ministry team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-specs\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 1: Team leading matters\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1. So, you’re a team leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2. Teams are worth the pain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3. A fruitful team leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4. The four conversations tool\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2: What team leaders always do\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5. Pray the big prayer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6. Cultivate a gospel culture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7. Focus on principles and values\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3: What team leaders regularly do\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8. Gather the team\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9. Delegate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10. Give positive feedback\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11. Check in and catch up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12. Have a bit of fun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 4: What team leaders often do\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13. Recruit new members\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14. Record, track and report\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15. (Re)assign roles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16. Play on the team\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 5: Tools to help you lead\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17. Know yourself (and your team) better\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18. Consider what season your team is in\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19. Assess your team’s performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLet’s go\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWith thanks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDave Moore is married to Julie and they have four adult children. He became a Christian through public school Scripture and the youth group at a local church plant.  After working in IT during the dotcom boom, Dave did a ministry apprenticeship followed by study at Moore Theological College. He’s been part of the senior pastoral team at Hunter Bible Church for over 16 years. He also serves as part of the Ministry Training Strategy movement, lectures through the Timothy Partnership Certificate program, and is the Executive Director of Safe Ministry Check (safeministrycheck.com.au).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eCommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eI first read Dave’s material on team leadership as I stepped into a team-leading role in kids’ ministry, and it gave me clarity and confidence as I approached this new way of serving Jesus. \u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e will help you see the gospel heart behind team leading, before stepping you through the role and equipping you with a range of practical tools. It’s simple, clear, really applicable, and biblically rooted in the desire to see Jesus glorified through ministry.\u003cbr\u003e—Sophia Lee, Kids Church Team Leader, Hunter Bible Church, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eThere are so many leadership books out there, so why add \u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e to your must-read list? Because Dave Moore is passionate about seeing your church raise up and deploy sacrificial, joy-filled team leaders who love to serve Jesus. Dave breaks down the job of building and deploying volunteer leaders in such a way that every leader in your church can easily grasp his framework and tools. And those leaders will then go on to equip even more leaders.\u003cbr\u003e—Steve Covetz, Lead Pastor, The Point Community Church, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eWhat a fantastic resource! I can’t wait to get this into the hands of my team leaders. Dave Moore’s book has given me a bunch of really clear, practical, principle-driven tools for effectively and lovingly leading a team. I love the focus on prayer, and the way Dave really pushes his readers to think realistically about how to put these tools into action week by week. I have a feeling a stack of these books will find their way into our church library and be a well-used resource for years to come.\u003cbr\u003e—Claire Williams, Pastor for Magnification, City on a Hill, Wellington, New Zealand\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eI’m so excited that this book has been written! Dave Moore shares wisdom gained from the successes and failures of years spent in building teams and encouraging and equipping team leaders. This book is accessible, theologically principled and practical—the four conversations tool is a winner! Put this in the hands of your team leaders (or potential team leaders) and use it as the basis for training.\u003cbr\u003e—Caroline Litchfield, Membership Director, Christ Church St Ives, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eLeading a team in church is an exciting responsibility, but it can also be very daunting! Dave Moore has written the book to dispel any fears and bring clarity to the task. Easy to read, warm, principled and thorough,\u003cem\u003e The Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e will help guide the new and long-term team leader in their noble task.\u003cbr\u003e—Dan Ford, Assistant Pastor, EV Church, Erina, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eI wish I’d had this book years earlier in raising up and equipping leaders who can empower and train future leaders. Dave Moore breaks down the gospel motivation and practical steps involved in leadership and insightfully addresses the particulars of leading volunteers. He has an obvious love for people and an enthusiasm for thinking deeply and systematically about how to lead teams well to bring glory to our Lord Jesus.\u003cbr\u003e—Jess Sheely, Assistant Pastor, Scots Church Sydney, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eI’ve had the privilege of working under and alongside Dave Moore for over ten years. He is a man who loves Jesus and has a wonderful desire for God to be glorified, for God’s people to be loved, and for the lost to be saved. His evangelism and boldness personally helped me become a Christian, so I can’t say anything bad about him. Nothing in this book is just theoretical for him; these are things he lives, breathes and puts into practice. He has a knack for knowing people and helping people learn.\u003cbr\u003eI love this book because it’s made for the volunteer team leader. So many leadership books have great ideas when you’re working with people full-time, but they can be hard to implement in the context of the local church. This book started with seeing a great need to help churches equip our volunteer leaders for the sake of God’s kingdom, and it has stuck to that purpose.\u003cbr\u003e—Scott Curtis, Pastoral Team, Hunter Bible Church, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eThis book is a must-read for anyone in Christian leadership. For new leaders and established leaders alike, there are nuggets of leadership gold throughout. David Moore puts flesh on the bones of what it means for us to serve as part of Christ’s body. He moves from principles to actions and shares insights from lived experience, all grounded in God’s word. I’m excited to see the fruit of these principles within my own leaders and to see them grow in their godliness and faithfulness through serving our King.\u003cbr\u003e—Ling Shooter, Serving Minister, St Thomas’ North Sydney, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eIt might be easy to just do a task or delegate a task, but teaching and helping others think through the principles of why the task gets done is super helpful. In \u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e, Dave Moore gives clear and concise guidance on moving from theory to practice, giving real-life examples of issues that arise when stepping up to lead ministry teams. It is so helpful, and so practical. It will help new and experienced team leaders alike to grow in self-awareness and deepen their love for their team members to see the joy in serving Jesus together.\u003cbr\u003e—James Hoey, MTS Director of Partnerships\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eDave Moore starts with the Bible, helping us see how God uses teams of people for effective gospel ministry. From that platform, Dave offers a thorough application of how team leaders can lead gospel-centred teams. \u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e provides a complete set of resources, alongside helpful real-life examples, that provide every team leader with the tools to lead their team effectively. Wonderfully, this book seeks to multiply the gospel by equipping team leaders to grow new leaders too.\u003cbr\u003e—Clare Merkel, MTW-MTS Partnership Developer\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eThis is the best book I’ve read on leading ministry teams. The balance between biblical principles, practical skills and clear application is just right. I’d recommend it to anyone who is looking to grow as a godly, faithful and wise team leader.\u003cbr\u003e—Nathan Xing, Student Minister, Hope Anglican Church, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e clearly lays out the distinct role of a team leader and how to put the principles of team leadership into practice. It’s easy to read, and includes a bunch of really useful tools. I can’t wait to read it with our current and potential team leaders.\u003cbr\u003e—Amy Stopher, Serve Purpose Leader, Providence Church, WA\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003eDave Moore has done us a great service in writing this book for pastors and Christian leaders. He has distilled years of thought and practical experience into a book that gives wonderful insights into many of the frustrations and joys leaders experience in the unique environment of the body of Christ.\u003cbr\u003e—Sam Hilton, City Campus Director, Hunter Bible Church, NSW\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":41438575984702,"sku":"tlh","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":41552495476798,"sku":"etlh","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/PXL_20250314_133732020.jpg?v=1742912369"},{"product_id":"prayerfulness","title":"Prayerfulness","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow’s your prayer life? Do you pray as often as you’d like to? Does it feel like a chore? Most Christians long for a deep, fulfilling prayer life, but life’s busyness and distractions can make prayer an afterthought or a burden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e, experienced pastor and Bible teacher Peter Adam guides you in rediscovering the joy and power of prayer. He uses the Bible, the wisdom of Christians from the past, and down-to-earth examples to help you:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eunderstand the biblical foundations of prayer and see how the gospel can transform your prayer life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eovercome common obstacles to prayerfulness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elearn how to plead God’s promises, actions, character and reputation—going beyond simply asking God for things\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eexperience many kinds of prayer—thanks, praise, lament, confession, dedication—and the joy of bringing your requests to God.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re just starting out or looking to go deeper in prayer, \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e will help you embrace God’s gracious and transformative gift of prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. What is prayer?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Our relationship with God\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eGod’s promises, actions, character and reputation\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. An anatomy of prayerlessness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. Enriching our prayers and using written prayers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePraying for ourselves and others\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5. Letting the Bible enrich our prayers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLearning to pray the Bible\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6. Praying the Lord’s Prayer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7. Jesus and the apostles on prayer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8. Repentance, confession and lament\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eServices of repentance, confession and lament\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9. ‘Unanswered’ prayers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10. Prayer, fasting, decisions and promises\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e11. Prayer for deliverance and protection\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12. A praying church\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e13. Planning to pray\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaily prayers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMore Bible-enriched prayers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAppendix: More resources on prayer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter Adam is vicar emeritus of St Jude’s Carlton in Melbourne, Australia. He was formerly vicar of St Jude’s, then principal of Ridley College, Melbourne. He is the author of numerous books, including \u003cem\u003eSpeaking God’s Words\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eHearing God’s Words\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eWritten for Us\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eThe Message of Malachi\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eThe Majestic Son\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eWalking in God’s Words\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eEsther\u003c\/em\u003e. He is a regular speaker at training conferences for pastors and preachers, he mentors young ministers, and he runs ministry workshops on preaching and on praying. You can find more of his writing at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/peteradam.org\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003epeteradam.org\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eCommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThere are many books about prayer, and if, like me, you’ve probably already read one or two, I hope you’ll read one more: \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e, by Peter Adam. Distilled from a lifetime of studying God’s word and walking in God’s ways, Adam gently diagnoses the causes of our prayerlessness and winsomely invites us into a more prayer-saturated life. With its bullet points, sample prayers, practical advice, and insight into our very human struggle to commune with God in a meaningful and consistent way, this book doesn’t simply tell us to pray; it opens us up and instils in us a greater desire to pray. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Nancy Guthrie, Author of \u003cem\u003ePraying Through the Bible for Your Kids\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eAny book that nurtures our prayer life is to be prized. This is such a book. Peter Adam faithfully engages the Bible with pastoral deftness and theological astuteness, and makes numerous practical applications born of experience. A feast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Graham Cole, Dean Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, IL, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eIn \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e, Peter Adam’s scholarship is made accessible and deeply practical. Adam walks us through his own prayers and prayer practices as well as showing how they are rooted in Scripture. At one point he writes, “We need deliberate, sustained coaching in prayer, as in every area of our lives”. You may not be able to have Adam as your personal prayer coach, but \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e is the next best thing: a conversation in which he encourages you to take next steps in prayer. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Tim Chester, Lecturer in Spiritual Formation at Crosslands Training, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and author of \u003cem\u003eEnjoying Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eAn absolute masterclass on true biblical prayer! Jesus wanted his people to learn how to pray, and Peter Adam leaves no spiritual stone unturned in carrying out our Lord’s desire. He reminds us that prayer is simply talking to God, and that God loves to talk to us about … anything! We can pray what Peter calls “big prayers”, about the world, the nations, God’s plan, and so on, and “little prayers”, about things like our failures, difficulties, trials, relationships, and joys. We are encouraged by sound theology and practical wisdom to pray in a biblical way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003ePeter widens our perspective and shows us that prayer is not just asking God for our needs, though that’s important; it also includes praise, thanksgiving, trust, repentance, lament, dedication and worship. His section on prayers of lament is gold!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eChristians, pastors, and churches in the West need this book, to bring us back to a true prayerfulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Wally Behan, Former Rector of St John’s Latimer Square (now Latimer Church), Christchurch, New Zealand\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eHere is the fruit of a lifetime listening to God, responding to God, and sharing the gospel of God. The book is a treasure chest full of seasoned personal experience and pastoral wisdom, generously shared to “help people in gospel ministry to pray for themselves, to pray for their ministries, to pray with their fellow workers, to teach and train others to pray, to lead in prayer, and to promote a culture of prayerfulness in their church or ministry”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Johnny Juckes, Former President of Oak Hill College, London, UK\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWhat a wonderfully helpful gift to God’s people is this new book from Peter Adam. \u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness\u003c\/em\u003e is encouraging, challenging and inspiring. It is gracious, scriptural, pastoral and practical—full of ideas to try, examples to use, dangers to avoid, wisdom to learn from, and grace to rejoice in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eIn it, Peter sends us again and again to God in his word and then calls us to turn those words into prayer. Sharing his life, doctrine and even his progress, Peter calls us to a richer, deeper, broader prayer life, both individually and corporately to the glory of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThe aim of the book is to help us pray. And that’s what it does. Praise God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Pete Sorrensen, Regional Team Leader at AFES Victoria, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003ePeter Adam has blessed us with this rich banquet of a book on prayerfulness. It reflects the breadth of the biblical teaching on prayer, the depth of our dependence upon our triune God, and the height of the privilege we have in lifting our hearts to heaven in prayer. Not only does Adam allow us to eavesdrop, as it were, into his years of prayerfulness, but he supplies us with so many practical ideas and helps to enfold into our own personal prayer lives. This book is important for church leaders to read also, for with so many churches desperate to reach and revitalize Australia for Christ, how important it is that our corporate church life is increasingly dependent upon both public and private prayer to the Lord. The fervent prayers of the righteous avail much, and so I wholeheartedly commend this book. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Mark Earngey, Head of Church History and Lecturer in Christian Thought at Moore Theological College, Sydney, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWhen senior ministry leaders take Peter Adam’s short course in prayer and emerge saying, “This has been the best and most revolutionary thing for my prayer life”, you sit up and notice. Much of that course is in this book. But be forewarned: this is not a casual, inspirational read. It is instead the full twelve-course meal in growing yourself as a biblically formed and theologically rich pray-er. It will inspire and challenge you to further glorify, worship and appeal to God more constantly as his beloved child and faithful worker. It will help you to help others grow as faithful prayer warriors. It will minister gospel grace to your soul. I can’t think of another book I’d rather use for small group studies next! A book to spend the year with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Wei-Han Kuan, Executive Director of CMS Victoria, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI admit I was surprised. Of course I was expecting to learn about prayer in this book, but I wasn’t ready for such rich reflection on matters of the soul and pastoral theology more generally. Drawing on Bible themes, topics like atonement and the church, and quotations from great people of prayer in history, Peter Adam gives us sage advice as well as a window into his own heart, providing written examples of praise, intercession and lament that he has found useful himself and commends to us too. Just when I thought I knew where Peter was taking us, I had to slow down and read again something that had been freshly worded or profoundly summarized. Why is common sense to help us in a close walk with the Lord so hard to find? Simple. Direct. Compassionate. Practical. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Rev Canon Dr Rhys Bezzant, Dean of the Anglican Institute and Principal at Ridley College, Melbourne, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI am one of the legion of people who have been enormously helped by Peter Adam’s books on preaching and the ministry of the Word. \u003cem\u003eSpeaking God’s Words: A practical theology of preaching\u003c\/em\u003e is widely and rightly known as a contemporary classic. Now, Dr Adam has written a unique volume on prayer that deserves returning to time and again. It is full of the fruit of Dr Adam’s sustained personal practice and reflection on that most intimate, precious, but perpetually neglected privilege of Christian discipleship: prayer to our Heavenly Father, through the Son in the power of the Spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrayerfulness: Cultivating a Bible-enriched prayer life\u003c\/em\u003e is bursting with wise biblical insight, generous practical encouragement, and devotionally rich resources, including worked examples: ready-to-use prayers for many contexts and circumstances, and concise liturgies suitable for personal, pastoral or corporate ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eBest of all, Dr Adam articulates a vision for growing our own relationship with God in prayer that relies upon and responds to what God has said in his word. This is a book that lives up to its title. It’s a book to read slowly, and to re-read, so as to mine every page for the nuggets of gold immediately and directly applicable in daily routines of prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eSurely personal and corporate prayerlessness is one of the besetting sins of our age. Here is a bold, biblical and resolutely practical counteroffensive that is also theologically rich and pastorally sensitive. It will benefit the new believer, those long-serving in the battle, the local church and the pastor. Highly recommended. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Archbishop Kanishka Raffel, Archbishop of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":41714859016254,"sku":"pray","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":41805633159230,"sku":"epray","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/Prayerfulness25rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1745367078"},{"product_id":"the-team-members-handbook","title":"The Team Member's Handbook","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re just starting out on a church team or you’ve been faithfully serving for years, \u003cem\u003eThe Team Member’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e is your essential guide to being a more effective part of the team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDave Moore thoughtfully unpacks the biblical foundations for serving Jesus together, from Christ’s own model of serving others to practical teamwork strategies you can apply immediately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith encouragement and challenges to your heart, habits, and prayers, you’ll consider your role in your small team and in Jesus’ big team. Through engaging personal stories and real-world examples, you’ll see how God gives us real joy and purpose in serving alongside others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is more than just a how-to manual; it’s a theological and practical resource that will help you serve Jesus with purpose and joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 1: Serve because of Jesus\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1. Jesus, our Lord, served us\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2. Motivations matter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 2: Serve the big team\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3. We're all on Jesus' team\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4. Your local team and your special team\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5. Your team prayer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 3: Serve your team\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6. Be Christian\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7. Turn up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8. Keep people in the loop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9. Share ideas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10. Follow the leader\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11. Take responsibility\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12. Be flexible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13. Skill up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14. Consider leadership\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 4: Tools for team members\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15. DISC profile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16. The six types of working genius\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17. Safe ministry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLet's go!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDave Moore first met Jesus through school Scripture and the youth group at a local church plant. After working in IT during the dotcom boom, Dave did a ministry apprenticeship followed by study at Moore Theological College. He’s been part of the senior pastoral team at Hunter Bible Church for more than 15 years, and is the author of\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/the-team-leaders-handbook\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eThe Team Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/a\u003e. He also serves alongside the Ministry Training Strategy team, lectures through the Timothy Partnership Certificate program, and is the Executive Director of Safe Ministry Check. Dave and his wife Julie have four children, and they love thinking about design, people, and serving Jesus’ kingdom.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":42040739102782,"sku":"tmh","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":42040971165758,"sku":"etmh","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/TheTeamMember_sHandbook25rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1758211878"},{"product_id":"discover","title":"Discover","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e is a 5-week, ultra-flexible evangelistic course that has been developed and tested over many years in a variety of contexts. Visit\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/discover\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e the \u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e site\u003c\/a\u003e to find out more and access the free videos. There is also a free downloadable set of support files, as well as a handbook for leaders, but the linchpin for attendees is this book that they read at home to continue engaging with the gospel message outside the meeting times.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrom the back of the book:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWhat do you think life is all about? Why are you here? What happens when you die?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e2000 years ago, an uneducated carpenter from an insignificant small town in the Middle East gave answers to those questions. His name was Jesus. What he said was nothing short of revolutionary; and if what he said is true, it will have a massive impact on your life today … and for eternity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e, we spend 5 sessions investigating the claims that Jesus made, and what they mean for you. During this time, you will listen to some talks and think through and reflect on what you’ve heard in your own time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWe are excited to have you join us! We believe that learning about Jesus is the most life-changing thing you will ever do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e uses the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/a\u003e gospel framework.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to make the most of this course\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1. What is life all about?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2. Who is Jesus?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3. What is Jesus’ life all about?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4. How do we know the Bible’s claims are true?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5. What is a Christian?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended resources\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDave Jensen has worked as a pastor at churches in Sydney, Belfast, and the Central Coast of New South Wales. He is now the Assistant Director of Evangelism and New Churches within the Sydney Anglican Diocese. He has been privileged to focus on evangelism for over a decade in churches, and now trains and equips other pastors and Christians in thinking through the effective proclamation of the gospel to non-Christians. He is the author of the ‘What is a Christian?’ evangelistic tract and can be heard on the ‘Fire up!’ podcast. He is married to Sammy and together they have four sons.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":42040741134398,"sku":"disco","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/DISC-2025-cov-rgb-150dpi_252bd59e-b75d-48f5-967b-3b3169312d1b_1.jpg?v=1759154627"},{"product_id":"discover-leaders-handbook","title":"Discover Leader's Handbook","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eWord, people, time and prayer. These are the key elements that author and evangelist Dave Jensen identifies as necessary for running an effective evangelism program. As we introduce people to Jesus, often for the first time, it’s important that they meet him richly through the word of God, while spending quality time with people who already follow Jesus and are praying that God will reveal himself as they meet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHaving run hundreds of courses and led evangelism efforts in several churches, Dave is well equipped to give practical, tried and tested advice to those seeking to start or improve the evangelistic efforts of their church or ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eDiscover Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e delivers that advice in a 6-part book that leads you through setting up an evangelism team ministry, pre-course preparation, running each course night, and the vital importance of follow up. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/discover-leader-resources#:~:text=Tough%20questions-,Leader%27s%20videos,-Tough%20questions\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eFour free training videos\u003c\/a\u003e also come with the handbook.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eDiscover Leader’s Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e is for use with \u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e, the 5-week, ultra-flexible evangelistic course using the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/products\/two-ways-to-live\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTwo Ways to Live\u003c\/a\u003e gospel framework that has been developed and tested over many years in a variety of contexts. Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/discover\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe \u003cem\u003eDiscover\u003c\/em\u003e site\u003c\/a\u003e to find out more and access free videos for both participants and leaders, as well as a wealth of\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com.au\/pages\/discover-leader-resources\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e free downloadable support files\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1. Building your Discover team\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2. Before running Discover\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3. Running Discover\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4. After running Discover\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 1. Discover talk scripts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 2. Planning checklist\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 3. Sample Discover session run sheet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 4. Team training guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 5. Discover team training session\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAppendix 6. Answering tough questions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDave Jensen has worked as a pastor at churches in Sydney, Belfast, and the Central Coast of New South Wales. He is now the Assistant Director of Evangelism and New Churches within the Sydney Anglican Diocese. He has been privileged to focus on evangelism for over a decade in churches, and now trains and equips other pastors and Christians in thinking through the effective proclamation of the gospel to non-Christians. He is the author of the ‘What is a Christian?’ evangelistic tract and can be heard on the ‘Fire up!’ podcast. He is married to Sammy and together they have four sons.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":42704088465470,"sku":"discolh","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"PDF","offer_id":42704088498238,"sku":"discolhpdf","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/Discoverleader25rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1776186371"},{"product_id":"let-the-word-dwell-richly","title":"Let the Word Dwell Richly","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eSince its publication, \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and Vine\u003c\/em\u003e—co-authored by Tony Payne and Colin Marshall—has been widely commended for its articulation of a clear ministry vision: every Christian committing themselves to the task of making and growing disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and Vine\u003c\/em\u003e proposed something more than just the conventional mantra of ‘every-member ministry’. It proposed ‘every-member \u003cem\u003eword \u003c\/em\u003eministry’.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNaturally, readers had questions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat’s the nature of this word ministry that all church members are expected to do? What does it actually look like?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow does it relate to preaching? Is it doing a different thing?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIs this just one option for growing a church? Or is it the right option? What does the Bible say?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEven if we agree in theory, how do we make it a practical reality?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eSo Tony Payne set out to do more thinking and provide some answers. Nearly ten years and a PhD later, he has discovered two very surprising realities: firstly, how little theological reflection and writing there has been on this topic; yet, secondly, how extensively the Bible talks about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eLet the Word Dwell Richly\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Payne brings a new rigour and depth to the ministry mind-shift that will revolutionize the effectiveness of the ministry we pursue in our churches.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eTable of contents\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eForeword\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIntroduction: Pulling on a thread\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart I. What is the one-another word?\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. What kind of word?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Is this a thing in the New Testament?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Exploring the silence\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. Apprentices to Scripture\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart II. How spiritual people speak: The one-another word in 1 Corinthians\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. The gifted problem child (1:4–7)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e6. Spiritual grown-ups speak spiritual wisdom (2:6–16)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7. Common prayer and prophesying (11:4–5)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e8. Spiritual speech for the common good (12:1–31)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e9. The supremacy of prophecy (14:1–40)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e10. Summary: the one-another word in 1 Corinthians\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart III. Speaking the truth in love: The one-another word in Ephesians\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e11. Building the body of Christ\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e12. Think cosmic, speak local (4:1–16)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e13. Walking and talking (4:17–6:9)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e14. Summary: the one-another word in Ephesians\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart IV. A word of exhortation: The one-another word in Hebrews\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e15. The word of exhortation\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e16. A dangerous journey with friends (3:12–14)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e17. The neglect of exhortation (10:24–25)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e18. Summary: the one-another word in Hebrews\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart V. Three key themes\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e19. Drawing threads together\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e20. The word of God and the one-another word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21. Moral transformation and the one-another word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e22. Christian community and the one-another word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart VI. Letting the word dwell richly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e23. The nature of the one-another word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e24. The purposes of the one-another word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e25. Reaching towards practice\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e26. Reverberations\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppendix: Men and women and ministry of the word\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBibliography\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eScripture index\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eTony Payne is well known for his long ministry at Matthias Media, and his authorship of more than 30 Christian books and resources. He is currently a faculty member at Moore Theological College, lecturing in Moral Theology and Christian Thought, and directing the College’s Centre for Christian Living. With his wife Ali he is blessed with five children and ten grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eCommendations\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI doubt I’ll read a better book this year. Tony Payne has taken decades to study, reflect, practice and write this book. In brief, his idea is that the Bible teaches us that as surely as pastors are to exercise the public ministry of the word proclaimed, so surely is every Christian to exercise the personal one-another word ministry. What is one-another word ministry? It is Christian speaking to Christian to edify, correct, encourage and instruct. The book is full of careful reading of the Bible—giving special attention to 1 Corinthians, Ephesians and Hebrews—thoughtful synthesizing of the truths it teaches, and experienced practical reflections. \u003cem\u003eLet the Word Dwell Richly\u003c\/em\u003e is a gift to pastors and churches that I pray is widely read. May the Reformational recovery of the ministry of God’s word in our lives and churches continue, and may this book be used to help it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Mark Dever, Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Washington, DC, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eTony Payne tackles a topic central to the apostolic teaching of the New Testament—yet often neglected in our own churches—with biblical clarity, theological depth and practical wisdom. He offers rich and timely insights that we need to heed and take to heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Lionel Windsor, New Testament Lecturer, Moore Theological College, Sydney, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI can’t recommend this book highly enough. It offers compelling exegesis, thoughtful theology and practical application. With incisive clarity, Tony makes a convincing—and convicting—case for the vital importance of all believers speaking God’s word to one another. As he observes, “a Christian congregation that lacks one another Word ministry is—like the Corinthian church—still waiting to grow up”. I pray the Lord will use this book to help many congregations grow to greater maturity in Christ. Our leadership team is already seeking to implement the biblical vision it casts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Mark Howard, Senior Pastor, West Valley Presbyterian Church (PCA), Allentown, PA, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThis book is the fruit of long and patient attention to the word of God, shaped by years of careful thought, reflection and study within the life of the church. Tony has given us what may at first appear to be a timely reminder of the importance of “one-another” ministry, but which proves on closer reading to be something far more profound. It is a call to recover confidence in the power of God at work in our churches by multiplying and amplifying the word of God throughout the whole congregation, as every member takes up the calling to speak the truth in love to one another.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThe pulpit is, of course, central to the church’s life. Yet when the public ministry of the word is received and carried into every part and aspect of the church’s shared life, something genuinely transformative takes place. Ordinary believers are drawn into the great dignity of speaking God’s own words to one another as instruments of his grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThis is a stimulating, timely and potentially very fruitful book. It presses us to think carefully about ministry, maturity and mutual care, and to reckon afresh with the way God uses his word—spoken from one believer to another—as a living means of grace. I warmly commend it to pastors and church leaders who are seeking to cultivate a church life marked by the richness and fullness of the whole body of Christ at work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Andrew Heard, Senior Pastor, EV Church, Erina, NSW, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e was only the beginning. In \u003cem\u003eLet the Word Dwell Richly\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Payne now takes us to the beating heart of biblical disciple-making.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eEvery year sees a huge wave of new books on preaching—and for good reason. God’s word brings life, and the pastoral ministry of the word must remain central in the church. Yet the New Testament also insists that the word must not stop at the pulpit. Pastors know the bottleneck: when everything depends on the professionals, discipleship stalls and church health suffers. But the church grows when ordinary Christians ‘speak the truth in love’ to one another—encouraging, warning, comforting, instructing and building up one another with Scripture. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThroughout church history, God has used certain books to recover neglected dimensions of the Christian life—whether Luther on justification, Carey on missions, or Packer on knowing God. In that same spirit, \u003cem\u003eLet the Word Dwell Richly\u003c\/em\u003e calls us back to the vital yet easily forgotten power of “the one-another word”. Tony Payne carefully traces this theme through 1 Corinthians, Ephesians and Hebrews. His analysis, synthesis and conclusions are exegetically rigorous, theologically rich, and profoundly practical. This is a big book with an even bigger vision: Scripture-shaped conversation is essential for discipleship, church health and perseverance in the faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Champ Thornton, Author and director of children and family resources, Crossway, Wheaton, IL, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLet the Word Dwell Richly\u003c\/em\u003e fills a notable gap overlooked in many Western churches: the one-another ministry of the word. Tony Payne thoroughly defines and defends this practice from the Scriptures, convincingly arguing that its neglect has adversely affected our churches. Although exegetically vigorous and thoroughly researched, the book remains engaging and practical. I found myself challenged to research the Scriptures, encouraged to examine my ministry, and convinced to mentor the church I pastor on one-another word ministry. Anyone involved in leading a ministry would benefit from this book, especially if heeding its message and incorporating its principles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Dave Trepanier, Senior Pastor, Gospel Life Church, Evans City, PA, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThis is a book that unsettles—in the best possible way. It confronts comfortable assumptions and gently but firmly exposes an often-unintentional neglect of the New Testament’s “one-another” ministry of the word.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eLong overdue, this work addresses a strikingly under-served area of Christian thought and practice. From the outset, Tony makes clear both the biblical importance of the subject and the paucity of material devoted to it. His contribution is therefore not only timely, but also deeply needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWith a theology-that-leads-to-practice approach, Tony calls readers to re-evaluate the balance of their ministry. As he carefully works through 1 Corinthians, Ephesians and Hebrews, I found myself confronted about my own ministry, as resistance gave way to conviction. The book demands effort—but it is the rewarding kind. Written with clarity and accessibility, it never oversimplifies. Tony is unafraid of complexity and invites his readers to grapple alongside him with the deep truths of Scripture. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eCrucially, this book restores emphasis to the vital “one-another” word without diminishing the place of preaching. Instead, it elevates the often-neglected word ministry of \u003cem\u003eevery \u003c\/em\u003eChristian. Its rigorous handling of Scripture is matched by a rich engagement with the Reformers, offering particular delight in its exploration of their understanding of preaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eAbove all, this book rekindles wonder at a great God who speaks clearly, who graciously shares his word with his people, and who uses that word—democratized and dispersed—to ensure his church remains edified, engaged and growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Grant Retief, Senior Minister, Christ Church Stellenbosch, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI’m delighted to enthusiastically recommend this book to you. As a pastor, I value pastoral theology, and Tony has provided a rich and deeply helpful resource that stretches my mind, warms my heart, and sharpens my pastoral focus. Preaching (one-to-many) has great value within Christ’s church, but I’ve always striven to encourage my people to recognize the value of their one-another speaking. This book has sharpened and deepened my zeal to see this vital one-another ministry flourish among my people. I need to continue working hard on preparing and delivering my Bible talks, but I also need to work hard to help my people be prepared to speak “some aspect of the word of Christ to each other, for the purposes of mutual edification and maturity in Christ”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eTony’s exegetical study of key passages in 1 Corinthians, Ephesians and Hebrews, using what he calls an “apprentice to the word” methodology, is full of rich insights. His historical study of how others have connected (or not) the preached word with the one-another word is fascinating. What should a belief in the priesthood of all believers really look like within our churches?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eTony concludes the book by offering suggestions on how our clarified framework of theological understanding can be applied to our own situations. I appreciated the non-prescriptive nature of these suggestions. Tony’s call is for each of us to consider how the “one-another word” can grow and become a normal feature of our Christian lives and churches. I’m excited to heed his encouragement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Paul Sheely, Pastor, Albury Presbyterian Churches, Albury, NSW, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eFrom a careful study of the New Testament, grounded in sound interpretive method, Tony argues for a commonly neglected element of Christian discipleship. The ministry of speaking the word of God to one-another should be the normal God-given experience of the Christian life and church ministry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eFrom his study of historical theology, Tony concludes that the 16th-century Reformation of the church by the public preaching of the gospel word did not go far enough. Luther and Calvin expounded the revolutionary biblical truth of the priesthood of all believers. But they failed to draw the implication that all believers are servants of the word, speaking God’s word to fellow-believers and to the lost. To this day, our churches suffer from this commonly neglected doctrine and practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThe effort of equipping our members to fulfil this vision will pay huge dividends. The formal preaching of pastors will have greater impact as members help one another learn deeply. And our various ministry structures in church life will be more fruitful for maturity and mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eViva la Reformation!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Colin Marshall, Author, \u003cem\u003eWarriors of the Word\u003c\/em\u003e; co-author, \u003cem\u003eThe Trellis and the Vine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eTony Payne has gifted the church a wonderful, if strange, resource in this book. I say strange not because of its content, but because of the need for the book in the first place. As Tony points out, the task of regular church members being apprentices of Scripture and helping others become the same has often been assumed, but not carefully argued for. This work does just that. It drives at the importance and vitality of one-another word ministry in the church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThe book is helpfully dense. Payne is unapologetically not taking short cuts, but carefully examining Scripture to prove his point. It is scholarly without being pretentious. I particularly appreciate how he goes out of his way to make his task hard on himself, raising and answering many potential objections to his thesis throughout his work. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eI must admit he’s preaching to the choir on this one. As a theological ethicist, I deeply appreciate the emphasis on formation according to Scripture for all believers for the sake of themselves and others. As one who trains preachers, I’m encouraged that there is an elevation of one-another speech without diminishing preaching. Both are vital, based on God’s word, empowered by the Spirit, but are useful for different ends (though they do overlap and serve each other). Preaching is more useful for comprehensive knowledge, and one-another word ministry is more geared towards practical immediacy. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWhat we need in the church today is the proliferation of the word in a variety of ways inside the Christian community. Tony gives help on why that is the case and how such things might happen. He wisely avoids over-emphasizing how the one-another word should work itself out in any particular church because each context has its own strengths and challenges. Regardless, to live in this way makes every ‘regular’ interaction between church members potentially significant. This practice of ministering the word to one another is not just the ‘right’ thing to do, but ‘good’ for all who speak and all who listen. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Jeremy Meeks, Director of the Chicago Course on Preaching, The Charles Simeon Trust, Chicago, IL, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eIf early church history clarified the divinity of all three persons of the Trinity, and the Reformation clarified the priesthood of all believers, then this most recent century has finally seen serious work begin on the ministry of all believers. Or has it?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eWith the theological and exegetical rigour we expect from Tony Payne, this book skilfully explores the neglected topic of one-another word ministry. But be prepared: you will be forced to check your assumptions at the door and rethink certain key passages of Scripture. If you’re like me, you’ll know you’re reading a significant work when you regret that you laid eyes on it only \u003cem\u003eafter\u003c\/em\u003e preaching through the relevant passages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eThis book is an urgent plea to unleash God’s word from the mouths of all of God’s people and, as Tony puts it, to no longer “constrain the communication of the word of God to one context only (the church service), by one person only (the preacher), in one form of speech only (the sermon), as many churches in history have done and continue to do today”. May we heed this call, by God’s grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Ray Galea, Senior Pastor, Fellowship Dubai, UAE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003eTony Payne has made a significant contribution to the doctrine of the church by analyzing what the New Testament says about one-to-one ministry by all Christians. What he says, and the conclusions he draws, constitute a challenge to every Christian about our calling to ‘speak the truth in love’ to one another. His work throws light on contentious issues such as the gift of prophecy and the ministry of women. Most important, however, is the way in which we are helped to think again what church is for and the responsibilities of all who belong. I hope that his work will enrich all our churches and enable us to show forth the faith, hope and love described in 1 Corinthians 13.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-quote-block\"\u003e—Peter F. Jensen, Former Anglican Archbishop of Sydney and Principal of Moore Theological College, Sydney, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Matthias Media","offers":[{"title":"Book","offer_id":42986331504702,"sku":"lwdr","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"ebook (epub)","offer_id":42986332586046,"sku":"elwdr","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0117\/6934\/8158\/files\/LettheWordDwellRichly26rgb150dpi.jpg?v=1783023566"}],"url":"https:\/\/matthiasmedia.com\/collections\/vg-retreat-2025.oembed?page=3","provider":"Matthias Media resources for disciple making","version":"1.0","type":"link"}