» News: New Books from PCA Pastors

Reformation Trust has published Jesus the Evangelist: Learning to Share the Gospel from the Book of John by Richard D. Phillips (PCA). The publisher's blurb reads:

"Rev. Richard D. Phillips digs into the early chapters of the Gospel of John to discover principles for Christian outreach that were modeled by witnesses for Jesus and by Jesus Himself. Phillips unfolds biblical principles for evangelism by examining the ministry of John the Baptist and the calling of the first of Jesus’ disciples. Then, through a brief study of the Lord's encounter with the Pharisee Nicodemus, he presents us with a theology of the gospel. Finally, he focuses in on Jesus' stirring encounter with the Samaritan woman to show exactly how Christ shared the good news. Phillips' clear and concise handling of these key stories will both motivate and instruct believers in their witness on behalf of Christ."

Phillips's book is available from the Reformation Trust. Phillips is Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC.



Canon Press has published The Baptized Body by Peter Leithart (PCA). The publisher's blurb reads:

"What does baptism do to the baptized? Nothing? Something? In this study, Peter Leithart examines this single question of baptismal efficacy. He challenges several common but false assumptions about God, man, the church, salvation, and more that confuse discussions about baptism. He aims to offer a careful and simple discussion of all the central biblical texts that speak to us about baptism, the nature of signs and rites, the character of the church as the body of Christ, and the possibility of apostasy. In the end, he urges us to face up to the wonderful conclusion that Scripture attributes an astonishing power to the initiation rite of baptism."

Leithart's book is available from Canon Press (and other retailers). Leithart is pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Moscow, ID.

» News Release: By Faith Online's Forthcoming Issue

Received this letter today from By Faith, the magazine of the PCA - PDF. This press release is a promotional item about the next issue of the magazine. We will report on ByFaith's progress in gaining subscribers to its print publication after the report at June's General Assembly. At last year's PCA General Assembly, some discussion took place about the future of the magazine and its need for more subscribers. By Faith contains some denominational news, but its primary focus is on the people of the PCA and their ministries and would be appropriate reading for anyone in any Reformed denomination because of its positive tone and focus. By Faith Online is the web version of the magazine.