Bøker av Michael F. Bird

Religious freedom is up for debate and needs to be defended--discover how.In Religious Freedom in a Secular Age author Michael Bird argues that religious freedom should not be preserved by churches entrusting themselves to the protection of a conservative leader draped in the apparel of civil religion, nor should they consent to allowing religious freedom to be steam rolled by progressive activists with their increasing hostility towards people of faith. What is needed instead is a better appreciation for how secularism can work to create space for people of all faiths and none, to resolve tense relationships between church and state, and to come to a fair and equitable settlement when religious liberty and LGBTQI+ rights come into conflict. Bird tackles complicated debates about the nature, extent, and limitations of religious freedom with a view to encouraging Christians to stand up for their faith in a post-Christian world in a way that is humble and gentle yet also courageous.Advance Praise:"e;This book's global perspective will challenge readers of all backgrounds and beliefs toward better arguments and better understanding."e; - John D. Inazu, Washington University in St. Louis"e;Bird demonstrates that religious liberty is of interest not only to Christians but also to the marketplace of ideas that helped deepen faith while simultaneously making room for peaceable difference."e; - Andrew T. Walker, professor and author of Liberty for All

Discover answers to the most common questions and misconceptions about the Bible. Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible is a short and readable introduction that explains how the Bible came to be, how to interpret the Bible, and how the Bible is authoritative.

Evangelical Theology, Second Edition is gospel-centered theology that is accessible and balanced. The gospel is the fulcrum of Christian doctrine, so an authentically evangelical theology is the working out of the gospel in the various doctrines of theology as the good news that should shape how we think, pray, preach, teach, and minister.

This commentary, written by two leading Pauline scholars, showcases integration of multiple methods as well as reflections on the reception of Philippians and its meaning for today. It introduces the most compelling scholarship on the interpretation of Philippians to both an academic and non-academic audience.

Description:Michael Bird''s commentary on Colossians and Philemon in the New Covenant Commentary Series pays close attention to the socio-historical context, the flow and dynamics of the text, their argumentative strategy, theological message, and the meaning of Colossians and Philemon for the contemporary church today. Bird situates Colossians in the context of Paul''s Ephesian ministry and describes how Paul attempts to persuade a congregation in the Lycus Valley to remain firm in the gospel and to grasp the cosmic majesty of Jesus Christ over and against the views of certain Jewish mystics who have thrown the Colossians into confusion. He shows how, in the letter to Philemon, Paul intercedes for a slave estranged from his master through a carefully crafted feat of pastoral persuasion from a missionary friend of Philemon. The commentary combines exegetical insight, rhetorical analysis, theological exposition, and practical application all in one short volume. Bird shows Paul at work as a theologian, pastor, and missionary in his letters to the Colossians and Philemon. Endorsements:""Every generation needs to grapple anew with the Bible, and every pastor needs a series that pushes the text into the community. This commentary series accomplishes these tasks. May God bless these commentaries to yield communities that live out God''s gracious covenant with us.""--Scot McKnightKarl A. Olsson Professor in Religious StudiesNorth Park University""Michael Bird''s treatment of Colossians and Philemon is incisive, informative, and independent. He guides readers with a light touch, accurately setting out competing positions, but judiciously weighing the merits of each of these alternatives. The commentary is built on a foundation of mature, balanced, and sane exegesis--and from this firm foundation Bird draws weighty theological implications. This is a masterpiece of succinct writing and an auspicious start to the New Covenant Commentary Series.""--Paul FosterSchool of DivinityUniversity of EdinburghAbout the Contributor(s):Michael Bird is New Testament Tutor at the Highland Theological College in Scotland. He is the author of Jesus and the Origins of the Gentile Mission, The Saving Righteousness of God, A Bird''s Eye-View of Paul, and with James Crossley, How Did Christianity Begin? He is also coeditor of the New Covenant Commentary Series.

What Christians Ought to Believe is an introduction to Christian doctrine that uses the Apostles' Creed as the outline and entryway to show what Christians should believe about God, Jesus, the church, and the life to come.

A new commentary for today's world, The Story of God Bible Commentary explains and illuminates each passage of Scripture in light of the Bible's grand story. SGBC offers a clear and compelling exposition of biblical texts, guiding everyday readers in how to creatively and faithfully live out the Bible in their own contexts.

In Bourgeois Babes, Bossy Wives, and Bobby Haircuts, author Michael Bird offers an engaging, incisive perspective on biblical gender equality and the egalitarian view---a preference for allowing women to hold teaching and leadership positions in ministry.

Presents two contrasting perspectives on the history of early Christianity. This book works sequentially through Christian origins and addresses various topics including the historical Jesus, the resurrection of Jesus, the Apostle Paul, the Gospels, and the early church.