Baker Books

This is a good book to study biblical hebrew and theaching biblical theology in the church and in the society.

In laying the foundation to his basic thesis, Chisholm elaborated on what is probably the quintessential paradigm for pulpit ministry: mastery of the ancient text. It is unfortunate that many language professors do not incorporate active learning techniques to help students make the crucial connections and applications of the languages, nor do they attempt to relate it to the importance and credibility of practical ministry. There is most likely too much assuming on the part of the professors. They think the students will naturally make the proper cognitive connections, but as Chisholm stated, "Many students come away from the process weary" (9). Chisholm rightly states that knowledge of the ancient text is essential for those who preach and teach God's Word (7).

In building on his theme, Chisholm supports his claim by relating it to the overall background of proper hermeneutical processes, or in his words, proper "exegesis" (11). A fundamental principle of hermeneutics is the study of backgrounds, which includes geography, manners and customs, archaeology, language, as well as other related subjects. It is important to realize that the text is grounded to the historical-cultural context, which is inextricably connected to its meaning (151). The point he makes relates not only to discerning the "text," but also understanding the "context." "What did the text mean to the original audience?" is a necessary question in proper exegesis, and goes against the ever-popular Reader-Oriented techniques (150) employed by many preachers today. This leaves the message devoid of biblical authority and the audiences are left spiritually malnourished! I found it particularly interesting that even the Bible invites the reader to step into the original text by employing the interjection "hineh" (look) in many of its passages (160), thus illustrating the point of putting oneself into the shoes of the biblical characters. This is a fundamental key to unlocking the meaning of the text.

The book achieves its purpose on two levels. First, Chisholm focuses on the mechanics or building blocks of the Hebrew language, such as syntax, pronouns, verbs, in addition to semantics and such. Secondly, he deals with the field of linguistics and how one should understand narrative, poetry, anthropomorphisms, prophecy and the like. Chisholm refers to the latter as "beneath the surface" interpretation (149). Chisholm makes a convincing approach that a mastery of the Hebrew language (and linguistics in general) is imperative for any preaching-teaching ministry and is inextricably connected to "truly biblical" preaching-teaching (223). Of course, Chisholm does point out that multiple perspectives on a passage are okay (224). He is really referring to application, for applications can widely vary and are sometimes a personal issue. But the preacher must never force a modern issue or theme on the ancient text if it does not relate to the author's original intent. This would be considered as "hermeneutical pluralism" (150) or a "postmodern reader-centered" interpretation (8,150).

Chisholm states at the outset that many people feel that language is secondary to "practical" ministry or is simply a luxury and not an essential. To change this perspective, the paradigm shift must come from within the colleges. An institution established on Bible education will suffer academic deficiency if it compromises a high standard for biblical language. Many colleges do this by structuring their academic program in such a way as to provide students the road of less difficulty. If the Bible is the foundation, a mastery of language must be of the highest priority! This book provides an excellent treatment on Hebrew by virtue of its success in bridging the gap between language studies and applying it to preaching-teaching. Certain sections may be a little tedious to read, especially if the reader has not utilized Hebrew over a substantial period of time. I think this book should be in the library of every preacher, and it really should be required reading for college Hebrew courses.

I have used this book as an aid to Hebrew exegesis now for two different courses, and I have found that it is perfect for the intermediate Hebrew student: not too technical and not too dumbed-down. I knew enough about grammar to understand the terms, but I still needed a fair amount of help after basic Hebrew grammar. Chisholm's book pointed me in the right direction for third semester Hebrew. Other books that I have used were way over my head, but this one was written for my level.
Dr. Chisholm is a seminary professor with over 25 years of experience in teaching beginning,intermediate and advanced students. He knows exactly what each level needs, and this book was designed precisely for the third semester student. It can also be used for a refresher for advanced students as well. I took a couple of courses from Dr. Chisholm, and I can attest that his classes are even better than his books, if that can be imagined!

This is a great book on ghost towns (and near ghost towns) of Texas, and a model on how to present a guide to local history for travelers in a given state or area. This book describes 88 sites throughout Texas; each site has its own detailed map as well as precise directions on how to find the location. Also each townsite has at least one accompanying photograph, most more than one. Baker's text is lively and interesting and relates information about each town that is useful and informative. If you are interested in local history, especially of places that have seen better days, this book will give you much pleasure.

This is the kind of book you want to take in your car always! You never know in Texas when your going to be near a ghost town! The book has a map and is indexed, with good information on the towns , how to get there and what you will find. A must by for anyone interested in TX history

Although, by their very nature, the Texas ghost towns featured in Baker's book have deteriorated even more - or disappeared altogether - since the publication of this book in 1986, it remains a classic reference on this material and is a "must have" for the ghost town hunter's library.

The historical research is very in-depth and resurrects these "towns that time forgot" in the reader's mind. The book is lavishly illustrated with black and white photos taken by the author, as well as archival material. Highly recommended!

There are several different re-tellings of the famous unpublished case for which "the world was not yet ready". I thought the lack of Watson would affect these books, but it dosen't! Filled with mystery, intriuge, and suspense. Read it whether you like Holmes or not.

The Thoenes stay remarkably true to Doyle's style of writing and give us a closer look at some of the great detective's assistants. Perhaps I can best describe it by giving you this bit: "From where he swam, the boy could not see the men on the deck, but he could hear their conversation. 'Very nice of you to save the boy, Holmes,' Van Rorin said, ' but who'll save you?' 'Jump!' Peachy sobbed, worried for the life of his friend. 'No, Carnehan,' Holmes called from the deck, 'I would surely drown.' 'Quiet!' Van Rorin shouted......'Now it's time to dispose of you, Holmes.'Peachy heard a shot and sunk his head below the surface. I can't believe it, he thought. Holmes is dead."

THESE ARE GREAT BOOKS. I GOT THE WHOLE SET FOR MY BIRTHDAY AND READ THEM ALL. MY FAVORITE IS THUNDERING UNDERGROUND. I AM DOING REPORTS FOR SCHOOL ON ALL OF THEM. I ALSO REALLY LIKE LAST CHANCE DETECTIVES WHICH THEY WRITE. I HOPE THEY WRITRE MORE.

At last, here is a book for those of us who love C. S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity" and wish Lewis was around to update his classic. My bet is that Lewis would write differently about some things now - especially his views about women - but his main points would stay the same. That's what this book is about - the main story of Christianity, unchanging through the ages and not political. While the book covers many of the same theological topics as Mere Christianity, it uses language and examples that make sense to contemporary readers. All thoughtful Christians would benefit from reading this book - my guess is that even teenagers would like it. Without dumbing things down, the authors simply and powerfully describe basic Christian doctrine on everything from creation to salvation to judgment day. There are questions for discussion scattered throughout the chapters (and more on the book's website), and I'm planning to give copies of the book to some friends so we can hash out what we think. There is so much good stuff here that some chapters should have been longer, but then again the book's strength is that it is short and is easy to read.

Concise and clear, this book explains all the foundational beliefs of Christianity in a way that would be okay with my Catholic friends as well as my fellow Protestants. It is an amazingly balanced and helpful introduction to the basics of Christianity. As far as I can tell, there really is no hidden agenda. I've looked for a long time for a simple book that explains historic Christian beliefs, and this is undoubtedly the best I've found. I'm going to recommend it for the adult Sunday School class at my church, and I wish the high school class would use it too. So many of them know next to nothing about what their church stands for... Reading this book would provide a helpful education for any Christian!

The gospel, or good news, of Christianity is a gracious one - yet many believe otherwise. Jacobsen and Sawatsky offer a brief but comprehensive overview of Christian theology, while trying to persuade believers about the importance of relationship and community.

"Graciousness does not preclude debate," they write. "What graciousness requires is respect for the other person and a genuine willingness to listen to what the other person is saying." A thoughtful book for those who truly want to model Christian love.

A Hard Witching is a finely wrought and wrenchingly beautiful collection -- indeed, so finely wrought it's difficult to believe it's her first. Each story opens a portal into the human soul -- that stained and sorry bit that exists in all of us. Baker shares with us, creates for us, imminently believable characters who only want to love or be loved, but cannot, because of that desert within -- each carry with them bits and pieces of the great and desperate Sand Hills of Saskatchewan. Your heart sings as you read. Jacqueline Baker shows such promised with this posed and mature collection. She evokes comparisons with such greats as Flannery O'Connor, Alice Munro and Kent Haruf and she deserves these accolades.

Ms. Baker's collection of short stories is beautifully written, her characters perfectly rendered. Like fine woodwork of old where the joints are carefully dovetailed, Baker has the ability to write seamlessly. The comparisons to Flannery O'Connor are apt. She is that good. If you enjoy the works of O'Connor, Walker Percy, Wendell Berry or Wallage Stegner, get this book and when you're finished reading it a few times, put it right next to those masters.

I loved this book. I recommended it to my friends, and gave a copy to my mom. It's a startling debut from a writer who has potential to be one of Canada's most outstanding writers. These stories are clear, restrained, and very emotional. It's refreshing to find a new voice in Canadian writing who actually knows how to write! These stories remind me of Alice Munro's best work; briefer, perhaps, but trandscendant and illuminating. The only annoying thing is that I maybe found the book too short. But apparently she's working on a novel I can't wait to read.

A must read!

I had not heard of many of these healings. This book really points out that we need to do be more active healers.

Facinating insight into the healing work of Mary Baker Eddy, the discoverer and founder of Christian Science. Well researched and annotated. Clear and convincing evidence that Mary Baker Eddy PRACTICED what she CLAIMED that she had found - the Science of Christianity and its Healing Power, The divine Power understood.

This book may not convince the skeptics but I shared it with someone who had never heard of Mrs. Eddy and she devoured the book as fast as she could.

This book reinforces the statement "all things are possible". Mary Baker Eddy saw into the spiritual realm and remarkable healings followed. She was way ahead of her time with her remarkable insight and healing but the world is slowly catching up. The general population now accepts many of her ideas that were once scoffed at. The mind-body connection and the power of prayer in healing have gone mainstream and prayer groups are now achieving what seemed medically impossible. This book of Mary Baker Eddy's healings is very inspiring and gives hope and encouragement to all. She left a wonderful gift for the world that can only be fully appreciated when we catch a glimpse of her message.

This book is edited by James Montgomery Boice and Benjamin Sasse. This book addresses what the reformation in Martin Luther's day did for the church as a whole, and for each Christian individually. Dr. Boice points out that the Reformers spoke of salvation by "grace alone." He states, "Here they wanted to insist on the truth that sinners have no claim upon God, that God owes them nothing but punishment for their sins (p. 11)." He then points out the Reformers taught God saves the sinner, "Only because it pleases Him to do it (p. 11)." From here Dr. Boice starts from the top down on why Christianity is in the state it finds itself in today. He points out that, "Scripture alone is the inerrant rule of the church's life, but the evangelical church today has separted Scripture from its authoritative function (p. 15)." He then states that, "Pastors have neglected their rightful oversight of worship, including the doctrinal content of the music (p. 15)." The contributors that write a chapter a peice are, David F. Wells, Ervin S. Duggan, R. Albert Mohler Jr., Gene Edward Veith, Michael S. Horton, Sinclair B. Ferguson and W. Robert F. Godfrey. Some of the chapter titles are, "Our Dying Culture, The Living Church, The Reformation of Worship and Reformation in Doctrine, Worship, and Life." This book attempts to examine the problems in the church as a whole and to give answers to the problems. In today's church where everyone seems to try to keep the peace and say everyone is right, the authors address the subjects rather bluntly at times. It has to be that way because no one seems to want to take a stand for biblical truth. R. Alber Mohler Jr., in his chapter quotes Blaise Pascal who said, "It is as much a crime to disturb the peace when truth prevails as it is to keep peace when truth is violated...But at no time is there a time for truth and a time for error, for it is written that God's truth shall abide for ever. That is why Christ has said that He has come to bring peace and at the same time that He has come to bring the sword. But He does not say that He has come to bring both truth and falsehood (p. 62)." The authors of the chapters in this book address different problems in the church and supply the answers to those problems. This they do admirably to get the church as a whole and each individual back into right relationship to God. They succeed completely, only if your willing to read, accept and put into practice the truths they try to bring back to the church. Be prepared as they try to be diplomatic but are harsh in places for a reason. I highly recommend this book. Every pastor should have a copy as well as every household in the church. The question is, are the readers willing to stand comfortably where they are, or, are they willing to move back to biblical Christianity? I vote for the latter, Do you?

This is all-star lineup of conservative Christians of differing confessions, but united in call to the church of today to repent of its adultery with our heathen culture, and to return to God's Word, to have our consciences tied to the Scriptures as Luther stood and would not recant, move or be moved.

Series of essays delivered at conference, with a common theme: let God's Word change the culture rather than the culture changing the world.

Horton, Veith and Wells are always thought=provoking writers, and their contributions here are a continuance of that.

God is calling His evangelical Church back to its Reformed roots. This book is an excellent "read" for anyone interested in objective truth over subjective experience.

This was the text book for my history of costume and other classes at University. It, along with it's brief but incredibly helpful pattern book are my first stop whenever creating an historical costume. I have walls of books on the subject but this is, for me, definitive. Dear Lucy, her research is impeccable, her hints on construction are invaluable and the illustrations are informative. I was a professional theatrical costume designer and maker for years and I have always kept this one for my best reference. It is followed, but not supplanted by the Janet Arnold books. These experts knew the extant garments of these periods and were respected by people in their own fields as well as the museum curators, etc. Get this one by all means!

For all the costume books out there- glitzy,gorgeous, full color photos & all- this book is the bedrock for all of them & for any aspiring- or working!- designer this is the foundation of your library. I am offering it as a text for my History of Costume class, as its clearheaded descriptions of historic garments & life are the basis of my lectures anyway; my students mught lose my handouts but it's too great a book to lose!

This was the textbook for my college History of Costume class. I majored in fashion design, subsequently went on to become a theatre costume designer, and for every costume, every show I have ever designed, this book was the initial source. I have NEVER seen a better overall costume reference. A must for anyone with a fascination for human apparel.

This is a wonderful read! Let me add that "Margaret Mead" is absolutely hilarious. I almost split a gut reading it to my wife. Baker gets the language just right, so we can feel the character in the chosen words! This one story makes this a must-have book, but many stories here are daring, joyful, and stimulating. (Just a suggestion: To understand the story on page 93 a bit better, read The Flute of God by Paul Twitchell - or one of the books by Harold Klemp.)

Baker writes beautiful, entertaining stories. Though there are highs and lows throughout this book, each story was thought provoking and amusing. You can't get too comfortable (read: bored) while reading these stories- Baker always keeps you wondering where she will take her characters next. Great beginnings of the stories help catch your attention, and the ride through the rest of the story until you reach the end where everything comes together is a fun one you won't soon forget. This collection of short stories is definately worth a read.

Alison Baker is to the surprise beginning what O Henry was to the surprise ending. "Benny Sarver knows what's going on in the lab where they clone babies out of one-eyed frogs." "The summer is so hot there's a spontaneous human combustion on the South Side." The stories that follow are eccentric, ironic, minimalist tales, which basically involve two pairs of human partners or a human couple and animals. The animals include bears, flamingos, deer, African bullfrogs and even dogs. The people are cowboys, ornithologists, Mormons, biochemists, gymnasts and cheerleaders. Quite delightful. One quibble is about the representation of Indian English. I am knowing many Indian doctors and and never I am hearing the continuous present. I am thinking this is how Americans are thinking Indians are talking.

This is a great book for enhancement of your belief in God, it will give you the teaching you need to live a life the way God wants you to live. I recommend everyone that beleives in God to purchase this book. You won't be sorry...

How To Apply The Bible is an excellent resource for anyone wishing to seriously study the Bible. It is a well written guide for personal study and application of Scripture to ones daily walk.

Veerman has written an excellent book to help the reader understand how to apply biblical concepts to everyday living.

Among the important points covered include:

1. What application isn't and steps to application.
2. True Bible application involves both study and action.
3. Excellent notes on the 7 literary types of the Books of the Bible: (history, law, poetry and wisdom, prophecy, gospels, epistles, and Apocalypse) and how to apply them.
4. Application techniques.
5. 3 ways to find application for your class or church.
6. Reasons for weak applications and misconceptions of application.
7. Sprinkling applications through the lesson and sermon.
8. Using the present, parallels, priorities, and plan to apply Bible passages to our lives.

All in all, an excellent and highly recommended book to help you learn how to apply the Bible to your life!

Read and enjoy.