Church Questions – serie

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryDiscover the basics of why, what, and how to pray.If you are a Christian, then you know that prayer is important. Like eating your vegetables, you know it’s good to do—but what about times when you simply don’t want to pray? John Onwuchekwa encourages Christians to talk with their heavenly Father even when it’s hard. This short treatment on prayer will help you understand the basics of why, what, and how to pray as you worship and serve in the local church body. Part of a new series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipGives readers practical advice to foster their prayer lifeConnects the act of prayer with the life of the local churchIncludes application questions, suggestions for further reading, and charts and graphs to communicate information clearly

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryTake the next step in your Christian faith.When you became a Christian, you recognized your need to be forgiven of sin and freed from sin’s reign over your life. As a result, your life has been changed forever—you are now a follower of Jesus. But what does the Bible say it means to follow Jesus? Sam Emadi offers 8 simple steps you should take once you become a Christian, as you set out in newness of life to thrive as a disciple of Jesus. Part of a new series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipOffers readers practical steps to take once they’ve become Christians: get baptized, join a local church and attend regularly, study the Bible, pray, be discipled, give to the church, and evangelizeHelps readers have practical expectations for what it looks like to follow JesusIncludes application questions, suggestions for further reading, and charts and graphs to communicate information clearly

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryDiscover the importance of local church membership.Many of us have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church. You may even catch yourself asking, If I believe in Jesus, why do I need to join a church? To put it simply, when you are saved from your sin, you are saved into a community characterized by fellowship and accountability. Best-selling author Mark Dever presents 7 biblical reasons why church membership is essential for displaying the gospel in your life. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipOffers 7 reasons why you should join a local churchPoints to where the Bible teaches about church membershipIncludes application questions, suggestions for further reading, and charts and graphs to communicate information clearly

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryBe encouraged to deliver the message of the gospel to the world.One reason Christians don’t share the gospel is because we feel like we’re not good at it. We clam up; we fear what people might think; we feel bad; and the cycle repeats. But what if there was hope for our timid evangelism? Isaac Adams encourages disheartened evangelists to hope in God, not their efforts. If you’ve ever felt discouraged in your evangelism, you’re in good company, and you’re a prime candidate for God’s grace. Come and be reminded of it once more, so that you might joyfully share the gospel again. Part of a new series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in how they grow as ChristiansShows readers how evangelism is connected to life in their local church and their own devotion to ChristDemonstrates how evangelism is doable for all believersIncludes application questions, suggestions for further reading, and charts and graphs to communicate information clearly

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryThe most important time to be at church is when you don’t feel like it.Feelings are complicated and fickle, yet they often reveal what you really want or think. When you don’t feel like going to church, something much deeper may be going on that must be addressed by God’s Spirit, through his word. Gunner Gundersen diagnoses the human heart and offers biblical insight on the importance of being involved in the local church—even when you don’t feel like it. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipHelps readers diagnose the reasons they don't feel like going to churchGives readers practical steps to begin to feel glad about going to church againEncourages Christians with the power of the warm nurturing grace of their local church gatherings

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryThe gift of a godly pastor cannot be overemphasized, but the task of finding a faithful pastor is daunting. In this booklet, seasoned pastor Mark Dever offers clear, biblical insight to churches in search of new leadership by providing six characteristics to look for in a new pastor, along with eleven strategies to implement during the search process. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipSix biblical insights into the attributes of a faithful pastorEncourages Christians with the power of the warm, nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsEleven best practice suggestions for search committeesPart of the 9Marks Church Questions seriesFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryDoes the phrase church discipline sound like an oxymoron? Many people believe that the church’s message is centered around grace, and discipline seems contrary to this message. In this booklet, Jonathan Leeman presents biblical answers to questions about the nature and application of church discipline, illustrating how Scripture presents it as loving and necessary for yielding life, health, holiness, and growth in the local church body. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight on the practice of church discipline and its vitality for the local churchEncourages Christians with the power of the warm, nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryAfter his resurrection, Jesus commanded his disciples to go and “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them” (Matthew 28:19). In this booklet, pastor Bobby Jamieson unpacks Scripture’s teaching on the importance of baptism in the local church, responding to seven reasons people often give for not being baptized. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight on the essential role of baptism in the local church community by addressing 3 commonly asked questionsEncourages Christians with the power of the warm, nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryElection seasons can cause division on a variety of issues. But what happens when you disagree with someone in your local church community? Authors Jonathan Leeman and Andy Naselli propose that Christians should learn how to disagree on such issues with a spirit of gracious understanding by recognizing the importance of what binds us together as a local church body—the gospel of Jesus Christ. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipSmall booklet ideal for sharingSix recommendations for how to love church members with different political views

4 Practical Ways to Serve the Local ChurchChurch Questions is a series that seeks to provide ordinary Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each volume offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.Believers display the greatness of God’s kingdom to a hostile world when we selflessly serve each other and those around us. In this short booklet, Matthew Emadi explains the vital roles we play within the church. Through acts of service including hospitality, ministry, and evangelism, we bless our communities and long to hear Jesus one day say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”   Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight on service and its importance for the local churchEncourages Christians with the nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment. A popular children’s song starts with the lyrics “Jesus loves me, this I know.” Some people readily trust that they are loved by God, but others struggle to believe this is true for them. In this booklet, Matt McCullough addresses this topic by answering the question Does God love everyone? By directing us to the surprising answer found in the Bible, McCullough helps us to see God’s genuine love for all people and his specific love for those who trust in him. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipSmall booklet ideal for sharingProvides biblical insight into the love of GodEncourages Christians with the power of the nurturing grace of their local church gatherings

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryExperience the Fullness of God’s Grace in the Local ChurchMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment. What does it look like for women to truly thrive as Christians? In this short booklet, Keri Folmar presents eight essential principles to help women fully engage in the context of the local church, such as prioritizing church membership and involvement, investing in meaningful discipling relationships, and not allowing conflict or bitterness to fester. Women will come away with helpful ideas on how to experience the fullness of God’s grace as they seek out biblical community with other believers. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipEncourages women with the power of the nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsSmall booklet ideal for sharing

5 Ways the Lord’s Supper Is Important for the Local ChurchChurch Questions is a series that seeks to provide ordinary Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each volume offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.Have you taken the Lord’s Supper without understanding what it means? Do you wonder about its relevance to your Christian life? This ordinance doesn’t have to be mysterious. Pastor Aubrey Sequeira shares five ways the Lord’s Supper enriches the church as it invites believers to look backward (remembrance), outward (togetherness), upward (spiritual nourishment), inward (reflection), and forward (anticipation). Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipOffers 5 points to deepen a Christian’s understanding of the Lord’s Supper as more than just a mealFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

Helping Leaders to Develop Meaningful Church MembershipMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Created in partnership with 9Marks, Church Questions is a series that seeks to provide ordinary Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions Christians have about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.In this concise booklet, Alex Duke explains the importance of meaningful membership and discusses what church members should do about fellow members who don’t regularly attend. Duke highlights the benefits of church membership—discipleship, accountability, and fellowship—and offers advice on how all Christians can encourage faithful church membership in their congregations. Presents the importance of church attendance to meaningful church membershipPart of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of attendance for church membersPart of the Church Questions series, created in partnership with 9MarksSmall booklet ideal for sharing

9 Practical Ways to Support International MissionsMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.In this concise booklet, Mark Collins addresses the essential role of the local church in furthering global missions. He shows how Christians can participate in the global cause by sharing the gospel locally with friends and neighbors; studying the work of missionaries throughout the world; investing in the global missions work supported by a local church; praying for missionaries; and more. This helpful resource reminds readers how fundamental they are to the spread of the gospel throughout the world and offers practical ways for them to participate. Offers 9 ways to participate in the global spread of the gospelPart of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipPart of the Church Questions series created in partnership with 9MarksFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

Practical Suggestions for Spending Quality Time in God’s WordChurch Questions is a series that seeks to provide ordinary Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each volume offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.Reading the Bible is essential to the Christian faith, but many believers struggle to study it faithfully. In this short booklet, Jeremy Kimble explains how the church acts as God’s school, helping us read and follow Scripture through teaching, fellowship, and discipleship. He also gives advice to improve your own Scripture reading so you can understand the big picture, ask good questions, and apply what you learn. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight on the essential role of Bible reading in the life of the local churchFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

“I eagerly commend this series.”—R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.Discipleship is an important part of the Christian life. As we follow Jesus, we learn the importance of pointing unbelievers to Jesus and helping believers grow in their relationship with him. But how do you know where to start? In this addition to the Church Questions series, Garrett Kell explores the Bible’s teaching on discipleship and how that plays out practically in the context of the local church. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight into the practice of discipleship and its importance for the local churchEncourages Christians with the nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsSmall booklet ideal for sharing

Discover the importance of giving in the life of the local church.Many new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.Statistics show that while charitable giving is as popular as ever in America, giving to the church has dropped significantly in the past several decades. The Bible, however, stresses the importance of Christian giving—specifically for the benefit of the local church. In this short booklet, Jamie Dunlop addresses the question Why should I give to my church? by demonstrating how giving to the local church is spiritually rewarding, accomplishes God’s purposes, and brings God glory. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipProvides biblical insight on the practice of tithing and its importance for the local churchEncourages Christians with the nurturing grace of their local church gatheringsFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

4 Steps for Testing the “Call” to MinistryMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Created in partnership with 9Marks, Church Questions is a series that seeks to provide ordinary Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions Christians have about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.In this addition to the series, pastor Brad Wheeler addresses the shortcomings of the word “calling” when talking with aspiring pastors about their desire to pursue ministry. Explaining why the idea of calling is both unbiblical and even unhelpful, Wheeler suggests a 4-part process as a better alternative—cultivate godly ambition, display godly attributes, develop an aptitude for teaching and discipleship, and receive the affirmation of a local church. Written from personal experience, this short book is designed to encourage men trying to discern their “next steps” to pastoral ministry. Part of a series that helps Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipWritten by a pastor for aspiring pastorsExamines the shortcomings of the term “calling” and offers a 4-step process to move forwardPart of the Church Questions series created in partnership with 9MarksFormatted as a small booklet ideal for sharing

Concise, Scripture-Centered Guide Confronts the Dangers of the Prosperity GospelMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.This short booklet by pastor Sean DeMars addresses the dangers of the prosperity gospel. Writing from personal experience, he lays out the 4 core elements of this movement and answers questions such as Is the prosperity gospel biblical? and Does God promise me a prosperous life? This guide will help readers understand how the prosperity gospel twists Scripture and leads people astray, ultimately undermining the message of the true gospel. A Great Resource for Congregations and New Believers: Helps readers think more biblically about the Christian life and faithfulness in a local churchAccessible and Practical: Small, shareable booklet includes helpful applications for individuals and churchesPart of the Church Questions Series Created in Partnership with 9Marks

How Can We Know What the Church Is Supposed to Do?Jesus commissioned the local church to carry out a mission. Yet local churches often disagree over exactly what Jesus commanded them to do, leading them to align their mission with current political or economic trends. So what does the Bible have to say?In this short book, Jonathan Leeman argues from Scripture that the mission of the church is first and foremost to make disciples—the task that each local assembly is called to do collectively—and to be disciples—the task for each individual Christian. He equips readers to obey this disciple-making mission both inside and outside the local church as they seek to follow Christ’s call and make God’s glory known in all the world. A Brief and Accessible Resource: A helpful tool for Christians who are looking for answers to their questions about the churchBiblical and Christ-Centered: Presents a vision for the church that is centered in the commands of Christ to his disciples in Matthew 28Clear Guidance for Churches: Helps local churches and individual Christians understand what it means to make disciples and be disciples in their various contexts

A Short Introduction to the Sovereignty of God for the Christian LifeGod’s sovereignty is difficult for most people to wrap their minds around even when they’re not going through difficult times; the topic raises many questions about salvation, evangelism, sin, and suffering. But when difficult circumstances arise, many believers ask, “Is God really in control?” In this addition to the Church Questions series, pastor Conrad Mbewe explains the Bible’s teaching on God’s sovereignty and addresses the common questions that it raises. He shows how it affects one’s outlook on salvation, suffering, prayer, and worship in the Christian life. This short and accessible work is ideal for anyone currently struggling with the sovereignty of God or for new Christians wanting to learn more about God’s sovereignty.  Part of the Church Questions Series: Developed to give biblical insight into common questions Global Perspective: Written by Zambian author and pastor Conrad Mbewe Useful for Seekers: Accessible for those new to faith or looking to learn more

Dane Ortlund Explains That Hell Is Indeed Real, but Hope Comes through Jesus ChristWhen individuals talk about an afterlife, they often talk about heaven and avoid any mention of hell. The idea of hell is uncomfortable and most people prefer to not discuss it. Given this reality, our society lacks an understanding of what hell is, why it exists, and how people can avoid it. Pastor Dane Ortlund has written this Church Questions booklet to educate readers on the reality of hell and the hope found in Jesus Christ. Using a variety of biblical passages, Ortlund explains that God is just, righteous, and deals perfectly with humanity. In light of God’s holiness and our sin, we fall woefully short of heaven. Humanity deserves hell, but heaven is offered to believers through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Written by Dane Ortlund: Author of Gentle and Lowly (500,000+ copies sold)Useful for Seekers: Accessible for those new to faith or looking to learn more Part of the Church Questions Series: Developed to give biblical insight into common questions

Words of Encouragement for Christians Who Doubt Their SalvationCountless Christians are weighed down with fear that God doesn’t truly love them. Although they have heard and affirmed the gospel, repented of their sins, and turned to Christ, the depths of their sin or long stretches of suffering have eroded away any sense of assurance. Is it possible for Christians to be confident in their salvation?With pastoral wisdom, Jeremy Pierre encourages doubt-filled Christians with the truths of Scripture. He shifts their perspective to see themselves as God sees them, comforts their hearts with the abundant love initiated by God, and teaches them to receive this love through the gifts Christ has given them: God’s word, prayer, and the fellowship of the church. Readers will learn to find rest in the unlimited knowledge and love of Jesus Christ. Short, Accessible Format: A helpful resource for church leaders to give to Christians who are doubting their salvationSympathetic and Pastoral: Written by a pastor and counselor who has helped many people wrestling with assurance of salvation and has experienced this struggle himself Biblical: Encourages believers with the writings of the apostle John to uncertain Christians

Practical Advice on Biblical Church Leadership and MembershipGod created his church to be a covenant of love and service among believers. It’s an ideal design for fellowship, but one that’s pushed to the side in the busyness of church life. How can congregations be sure to embrace God’s purpose for them?In the short book Who’s in Charge of the Church?, Sam Emadi explains that church polity isn’t just transactional; it’s meant to be transformative. He describes how churches should reflect biblical authority, particularly members’ responsibilities to one another, their elders, and deacons. Emadi’s direction helps provide clarity for congregations, showing them how to operate within God’s perfect design and grow stronger in their love for Christ. Short, Accessible Format: Concise, biblical advice on improving church structureHolistic Advice: Helps members and leaders make godly decisions about membership, doctrine, and disciplineA Great Resource for Church Leadership Teams: A convenient, valuable discussion tool for your group

Concise, Scripture-Centered Guide Addresses Common Questions about Diaconal Service in the ChurchMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.In this concise booklet, Juan Sanchez explains the essential role deacons play in the life of the church. He addresses topics such as why churches need deacons, how deacons carry out their role, who is eligible to be a deacon, and how diaconal service exemplifies the character of Christ. Valuable for church leaders and members alike, this resource helps readers understand what the Bible has to say about this important church office and why its ministry is indispensable. A Great Resource for Congregations and New Believers: Helps readers think more biblically about the Christian life and faithfulness in a local churchAccessible and Practical: Small, shareable booklet includes helpful applications for individuals and churchesPart of the Church Questions Series Created in Partnership with 9Marks

Practical Insight into Finding a Healthy ChurchLooking for a new church can feel overwhelming, and it’s often difficult to know what aspects to prioritize. In this addition to the Church Questions series, Alex Duke provides criteria on what to look for in a healthy local church. Using personal experiences and biblical principles, Duke identifies important elements within the church—the gospel, the Bible, and the community—as well as specific questions to ask. He also reminds believers that they should not be looking for a perfect church, but a biblical and faithful one. This booklet is perfect for those who are looking for a new church and unsure where to begin.  Short, Accessible Format: Concise, biblical advice on searching for a churchPart of the Church Questions Series: Helping Christians understand the centrality of the local church in Christian discipleshipPractical: Provides specific questions to ask about the church’s treatment of the Bible, the gospel, and meaningful relationships

Concise, Scripture-Centered Guide Answers Popular Questions about Gender and Church LeadershipMany new believers have questions about what it means to live as a Christian in the context of a local church, and pastors are looking for resources to pass along to their congregations to help them think biblically about the Christian life. Church Questions is a series by 9Marks that seeks to provide Christians with sound and accessible biblical teaching by answering common questions about church life. Each booklet offers biblical answers and practical applications with the goal of nurturing healthy church practice and commitment.In this Church Questions booklet, Greg Gilbert answers the question Can women be pastors? Gilbert explains why God reserved the office of pastor and elder exclusively for men by examining the structures of authority God established from the very beginning. Focusing on texts in Genesis 1–3 and 1 Timothy 2, Gilbert makes a case for why God’s original design for church leadership is not arbitrary, but part of his good and beautiful plan. A Great Resource for Congregations and New Christians: Helps readers think more biblically about the Christian life and faithfulness in a local churchAccessible and Practical: Small, shareable booklet includes helpful applications for individuals and churchesPart of the Church Questions Series Created in Partnership with 9Marks

How Sound Doctrine Influences Every Area of the Christian LifeDoctrine might be something you’ve heard in church, but how does it impact your life? Christian doctrine examines what the Bible teaches about particular topics, such as the nature of God, the nature of humanity, how humans should live, and more. By understanding biblical truths, believers have the tools to understand God, interpret Scripture, and live godly lives. In this addition to the Church Questions series, Samuel James addresses how doctrine influences every area of life for the believer. Many individuals know that their beliefs matter in certain areas of life, such as politics, but don't always understand how key biblical principles like the Trinity, ecclesiology, and the atonement should shape their everyday lives. It is easy to think that doctrine is only for theologians, but in reality, it is essential for everyone—humanity was created to know the truth about God, themselves, and the world.  Part of the Church Questions Series: Developed to give biblical insight into common questions Ideal for New Christians: Introduction to the relationship between doctrine and living out the Christian life Short and Accessible Format: Concise, biblical teaching on the church’s system of beliefs