Carl R. Trueman has given us a gem with this book because it allows us to sit at Dr. Martin’s feet and learn about the Christian life. This book has eight chapters that summarize Luther’s thought and experience all with a view to the Christian life. I’ll share a few highlights here.
God’s Outlaw
The back of the DVD case begins, “A true story, God’s Outlaw is about international politics, church intrigue, cold-blooded betrayal, and false justice ending in a criminal’s death. But it’s also about victorious faith and spiritual triumph over some of the greatest political and religious forces known in the 16th century.”
Luther: The Graphic Novel
The opening statement on page 5 of this book is: “This is the story of Martin Luther, a hero of the church”—and that it is. It is a biography of the life and times of Martin Luther from birth to death.
This biography is presented in a high quality graphic novel format, a modern-day version of what I knew as a comic book. It is a quick read of 142 pages divided into 5 sections:
Luther Discovers the Gospel
In a sleuth-like manner, Dr. Uuras Saarnivaara in Luther Discovers the Gospel seeks the solution to the question of when Martin Luther became a “Lutheran.” Saarnivaara, the first theology professor at the AFLC Seminary, offers the purpose of this book in the preface:
Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed the World
When browsing recently at the Ambassador Publications store, I picked up and began reading Martin Luther, a Man Who Changed the World. Within moments I knew I had to purchase the book. The twenty-six page, large format book would be perfect to share with my grandchildren. Yes, the oldest is only two, but it is always good to be ahead of the curve.
Luther the Reformer
Biographies of Martin Luther are certainly not lacking. James Kittelson has provided a biography that “fills in the gaps,” not only concerning aspects of Luther’s life but also of his theology and the events surrounding his development as a reformer.
Day by Day We Magnify You
It’s the Luther Year! In 2017 we are commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, and what better way to celebrate than to read something by Martin Luther. My church history students may remember that there are two towering personalities from the past whom we can really get to know through their writings; Augustine is the first, and Luther is the second.
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
In 1980, Eugene Peterson released A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. A second edition came at the turn of the century, and this commemorative edition shows its staying power within Christian literature. Although four decades have passed, the tone remains very current. The subtitle captures its value for ministry leaders in general, and specifically for those serving the next generation: “Discipleship in an Instant Society.” The biblical stance of standing with the Lord and walking in His ways provides a rich ground for making disciples of Jesus.
An Unexpected Book Club
In this interview, youth leader Cody Halverson shares how a few book recommendations turned into a book club with several youth in the church. Read below for the story.
An Interview with Diane Brubakken
Diane Brubakken, who has served as AFLC Parish Education’s administrative assistant for 14 years, has accepted a new position with AFLC Home Missions. We are deeply grateful for all Diane’s work to support Parish Ed in making trustworthy, biblical materials accessible to our congregations and for her helpful service to our customers. To honor her contributions to this ministry, we asked her some questions about her time with Parish Ed.
Opening Chapel Time
Jane Quanbeck and Marian Christopherson, Sunday school teachers at New Luther Valley Lutheran Church, McVille, ND, share how “opening chapel time” has shaped their students and helped them engage more deeply with Scripture, missions, and prayer. Read their responses in our interview below.
Cradle Roll Ministry: What’s It All About?
♫Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!♫ Do you remember the first time you heard that song? It may have been in cradle roll. If you grew up in a Christian family or going to church, God may have been writing this biblical truth on your mind and heart since infancy. Children are never too young to hear the beautiful truths of Scripture spoken, sung, and prayed.