True Story – James Choung

“In this engaging narrative, James Choung weaves the tale of a search for a Christianity worth believing in. Disillusioned believer Caleb and hostile skeptic Anna wrestle with the plausibility of the Christian story in a world of pain and suffering. They ask each other tough questions about what Jesus really came to do and what Christianity is supposed to be about. Along the way, they discover that real Christianity is far bigger than anything they ever heard about in church. And the conversion that comes is not one that either of them expects.”

James Choung pastors a Vineyard house church called Vineyard Underground that was planted out of Coast Vineyard California (Don Williams’ old church).

God In Public – Tom Wright

This latest book by Tom Wright recently received a 5 star review from Christianity Magazine:

“Power, terror, war, peace, the law, money and sexual ethics are all addressed with sharp insight…This is a thought-provoking book that informs and inspires.”

– Ian Coffey (Christianity Magazine)

“What has Christianity to do with power? What can Christians do to act as the voice of the voiceless? How can speaking of God in public help to create new structures of international justice and peace? These are the central questions running through Tom Wright’s latest book, in which he demonstrates the many ways in which faithful exegesis of scripture can throw fresh light – God’s light – on the great philosophical, political and ethical problems of our day.”

Real Life – James Choung

This is the sequel to True Story.

‘What does it mean to follow Jesus? And how should we help others become more like him?

Once upon a time, being a Christian seemed clear. Say these words, pray these prayers, do these things. But out in the real world, following Jesus feels more nebulous. What’s the point?

Join Stephen, Bridget and Jared on their journey of following Jesus, as they discover what it means to move from skeptic to world-changer. And find new pathways for Christian discipleship and disciple-making in a world yearning for hope.’

God Inside Out – Simon Ponsonby

Simon Ponsonby is not only an incredible bible teacher, but also has the ability of making theology accessible to everyone through his widely-praised books.  In this landmark title he unpacks a scriptural understanding of the Holy Spirit, with great results.

“Marshalling the prolific references in Scripture; the metaphors of wind, water, oil, fire and dove; the multiplicity of terms, types and titles; the many insights from the church fathers, reformers and more recent theologians, Simon Ponsonby presents us with a dynamic and accessible picture of the One who is God with us, working in and through us, shaping us into the character of Christ and equipping us for the adventure of serving others. The result will stimulate both head and heart, as it presents a dynamic picture of the One who is God with us, working in and through us, shaping us into the character of Christ and equipping us for the adventure of serving others.”

This book is also a recommended text for Vineyard Institute’s course “The Holy Spirit – God Inside Out”.

Social Justice Handbook – Mae Elsie Cannon

Every day we are confronted by challenging societal problems, from poverty and institutional racism to AIDS and homelessness. It can all seem so overwhelming. But while none of us can do everything, all of us can do something. This handbook will help you discover what you can do, covering issues such as:

:: Sex trafficking
:: Domestic Violence
:: Living wage initiatives
:: Debt relief
:: Environmental stewardship
:: Bioethics

“This handbook includes dozens of practical exercises for taking action, as well as profiles of key figures and movements like William Wilberforce, the Salvation Army and Bono, highlighting how Christians and churches can make a difference. Also included are spiritual practices and resources to help us move from immobility to advocacy.”