New and Noteworthy: March 2009

BIBLE STUDY

Walter C. Kaiser Jr., Darrell L. Bock and Peter Enns. Three Views on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2007. 256 pages. $16.99.
The authors provide a readable — but in-depth — look at three perspectives on the hermeneutics used by the New Testament writers when they cite the Old Testament. Each scholar makes his case and also responds to the presentation of the two other writers.
The volume has ample biblical examples of the methods suggested.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Robert J. Keeley. Helping Our Children Grow in Faith: How the Church Can Nurture the Spiritual Development of Kids. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker, 2008. 156 pages. $14.99.
Keeley, a professor of education at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Mich., presents six principles for developing faith in a child’s head, heart and spirit. The book offers practical insights for church leaders, Sunday school teachers and parents. Keely uses the first missionary journey of Paul as an example of the kind of curriculum he recommends.
WORSHIP

Jady S. Copeland and Nathan A. Ward, eds. Beneath the Cross: Essays and Reflections on the Lord’s Supper. Chillicothe, Ohio: DeWard Publishing. 329 pages. $14.99.
The essays in this multifaceted work on communion are divided into four parts: the nature and background of the supper, tracing the story of the Messiah throughout the Bible, reflections on the sacrifice of Christ for Christian living and exploration of the background of hymns typically associated with the Lord’s Supper.

CHURCH GROWTH

Craig Van Gelder, ed. The Missional Church and Denominations — Helping Congregations Develop a Missional Identity. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2008. 282 pages. $26.00
Nine authors explore the relationship between church government and its missional focus.
This material builds on the work of Lesslie Newbigin and the Gospel and Our Culture Network, seeking to help churches refocus on their God-given mission.