Speaking the Truth: Preaching in a diverse culture by Samuel Wells (Canterbury Press, £17.99 (£16.20); 978-1-78622-123-0).
“In this volume, he reflects on the practice of speaking about God, faith, the Bible, discipleship, resurrection, salvation, politics and truth, and on preaching that resonates in particular contexts. It is a book to encourage and give confidence to all preachers, and preachers in training.”
The Possibility of Difference: A biblical affirmation of inclusivity by Marcus Green (Kevin Mayhew, £8.99; 978-1-84867-972-6).
“Marcus Green makes three startlingly honest confessions. His first, that he is an Anglican; his second, that he is an evangelical; and finally, his third, that he is gay. It is these uncompromising and at times conflicting standpoints that make the basis for this compelling, compassionate, perhaps controversial but absolutely crucial book on attitudes towards homosexuality in the Christian faith.”
Gospels Before the Book by Matthew Larsen (OUP, £25.99 (£23.50); 978-0-19-084858-3).
“What does it look like to read the texts we now call the gospels like first- and second-century readers? There is no evidence of anyone regarding the gospel as a book published by an author until the end of the second century. So, put differently, what does it mean to read the gospels ‘before the book’?”
Striking Out: Poems and stories from the Camino by Stephen Cottrell (Canterbury Press, £9.99 (£9); 978-1-78622-116-2).
“This is a spiritual diary of that journey, comprising reflections, prayer poems and evocative images from the road and poetry which Stephen Cottrell has written for many years. Arranged in four sections, each with seven paired reflections and poems, the shape of the book echoes the rhythm of walking and is an intimate and honest account of the profound effect of the age-old tradition of going on pilgrimage.”
Christian Mindfulness: Theology and practice by Peter Tyler (SCM Press, £19.99 (£18); 978-0-334-05671-3).
“Many Christian commentators have been taken aback by the seemingly unstoppable rise of the 'mindfulness revolution' that has occurred over the past decade. But there are many Christians who worry that mindfulness techniques constitute a covert import from Buddhism. How far are Christians adopting Buddhist techniques, ideas and ideologies? Do we risk squaring Buddhist ideology and approaches to fit the Christian circle?”
Selected by Frank Nugent, of the Church House Bookshop, which operates the Church Times Bookshop.
