Widespread deficiencies in spiritual formation see an increasing number of ministers buckle under the significant burdens common to the task. There are seasons when a powerful triad of the flesh, the world, and the devil converge (Eph 2:2–3, cf. Jas 3:15 and 1 John 2:16). Misdirected attempts to fulfill emptiness, find worth, or heal longstanding wounds ensue. Widespread instances of sexual immorality result. Sound exegesis and analysis of theological doctrine presents an allowance, in certain cases, for ministerial restoration. However, this necessitates an intimate and intricate approach that differs significantly from the varied solutions churches and denominations offer. Few restoration programs bring a biblical response to bear. Remarkably rare are restoration programs that look to correct causal factors and commit to congregational care. This program orients itself on an understanding of brokenness and the need for holistic (re)formation. The latter requires fallen ministers to progress beyond biblical confession and repentance to partner with the Holy Spirit and key authorities such as an overseer, mentors, Christian mental health professionals, and a designated congregation. The unitive goal is a “sanctifying psychopathology” that properly diagnoses spiritual and emotional health; eradicates the adverse influences of emotional, cultural, and spiritual factors; and redirects self-oriented patterns of thought and behavior.

In this volume, But Without a Parable Jesus Did Not Speak Interpretation of All the Parables of Jesus Christ tenders a brand-new outlook on the ministry of Jesus as a human being and as eternal God and serves a biblical interpretation of the spiritual language of parables. This gospel commentary was taken from the Book of Matthew that harmonizes teachings of the other New Testament books and, from that point on, offers a cultural and political background of the times when Jesus was living in Israel, with dates and historical fact and analysis of everything written in his three-and-a-half-year ministry on earth. Since this is a resource that interprets all the gospel parables spoken by Jesus from Matthew, Mark, and Luke and, in addition, makes clear his plan of salvation created from the foundation of the world, But Without a Parable Jesus Did Not Speak Interpretation of All the Parables puts forward a detailed description at the time of the cross while Jesus was alive and knew that all things at that moment had been accomplished and the scriptures had been fulfilled. He cries out “it is finished,” and that moment in time ensures the payment for sin was fully paid for while Jesus was still alive on the cross. And another aspect of the book explains the controversy of divorcement and the NT Sabbath day, which are all included as part of the new covenant that comprises the doctrines of the Christian churches.

We are products of what we allow into our lives, either for good or bad. We are flooded by images and sounds and their associated emotional reactions. We are influenced by our relationships and environment. As believers we need effective walls to keep us from being overwhelmed by our culture and the trials and tribulations of life. We need strong, guarded gates to control what we let in. Walls and Gates contain a series of devotional thoughts for evaluating the effectiveness of our personal walls and gates based on the Book of Nehemiah. It covers the rebuilding of the walls and gates of Jerusalem and Nehemiah’s actions in restoring the people spiritually. Each devotional thought contains a description of Nehemiah’s actions and their relevance today. At the conclusion of each thought is a related New Testament scripture and thought-provoking questions. In easily grasped, yet stimulating devotions, Les Tripp challenges the disciple to maintain effective barriers to Satan’s attacks and filter out distractions and interference. He points to the role of faith in guarding one’s spiritual journey. As you progress through these devotions, be prepared to: • Be challenged to form effective spiritual walls and gates. • Appreciate insights into Nehemiah’s leadership. • Explore the actions and events of restoring the walls and gates in terms of your own personal spiritual journey and ministry. • Be engaged in developing spiritual protection against the world, the flesh and the devil.

Vols. for 1871-76, 1913-14 include an extra number, The Christmas bookseller, separately paged and not included in the consecutive numbering of the regular series.