Product Description

With a new afterword
 
Acts of Faith is a remarkable account of growing up Muslim in America and coming to believe in religious pluralism, from one of the most prominent faith leaders in the United States. Eboo Patel’s story is a hopeful and moving testament to the power and passion of young people—and of the world-changing potential of an interfaith youth movement.

Customer Reviews (23)

Timely and beautiful
Eboo Patel shatters the uninformed stereotype many non-Muslims have of Muslims. His passionate and eminently sensible discussion of religious pluralism is a call for all of us to learn to live together, true to our own belief system and respectful of others'. Every American should read this book.

Story of a life dedicated to a great cause, a must read !
I am not into reading autobiographies but I am very glad that I made an exception.I started the book in a plane ride and could not put it down.Eboo's amazing journey starts at YMCA and currently is at IFYC (Interfaith Youth Core).He is still pretty young and I have no doubt he will contribute a lot more to the world in general and American society in particular.He does an incredible job in telling the story of his life and how he reached where he is now.

In this book he takes us through the start of an Interfaith movement for youth.His novel concept is very unlike other youth movements where discussion on religion is almost taboo.IFYC connects youth with each other by not neglecting faith but by encouraging youth to explore their faith traditions with respect to social good they are doing in the world.

As advised by his mentor at Oxford "When you have a calling, you have to follow it" page 123.A world is a better place because of Eboo following his calling, which I think is to make all children of Adam get to know each other better.Eboo quotes a beautiful verse from the Quran regarding this topic, page 140.

It is because of people like Eboo Patel, ideologies of Al Qaeda, Neocons, Nazis and RSS (an organization dedicated to making India a Hindu nation) have less chances to tear us apart.

Marvelous in so many ways
Bill Clinton has it exactly right: "Beautifully written story of discovery and hope." I was especially drawn to Patel's personal stories (partly because I also grew up near Chicago and lived at Allen Hall in Urbana, long before him), and frustrated because I wanted more memoir-like details. But in humility, Patel's not writing about himself so much as the desperate need for and elysian potential of youth, deepening their faith while learning appreciation and tolerance for others'. I also learned a great deal about Islam and other religions. Reading this was a very moving experience for me.

A must-read for all who work with youth
Eboo Patel's own journey, plus his insights into the faith line challenge of our time, gives us great insights as to how to engage youth, not by evangelizing them but by enabling them to deepen their own journey and become aware of others through service and the connections among those who serve.This is a critical area that all faithful, conscious adults need to pay attention to.

Must read
This book is in insightful and thoughtful. I consider this book an absolute must read!!! ... Read more

Product Description
For more than two decades, internationally renowned pioneer in energy medicine Caroline Myss has been studying how people use their personal power. Through her special brand of spiritual insight and intuition, her popular workshops, and her bestselling books, Myss has helped hundreds of thousands of people meet the lifelong challenge of managing their spiritual energy and improving their lives.

Now, in this inspiring new book, Myss expands her message about power in an entirely new spiritual direction. With characteristic originality, she explains how we become channels for divine grace and a conduit for miracles through kind, compassionate, generous actions, or, as she calls them, invisible acts of power. When we act compassionately, without a private agenda or expectation of credit or reward, God works invisibly, anonymously through us. And as we move from visible acts, such as giving a friend a helping hand, to invisible acts, such as prayer and healing, we undergo a profound journey of personal empowerment.

The myriad simple but profound ways that people connect to create small miracles, gain a greater sense of spirituality, and transform their own -- and others' -- lives in an instant will inspire you to your own invisible acts of power...and attract them to you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

INVISIBLE ACTS OF POWER POWERFUL
Once again an excellent book by Caroline Myss.Profound truths that are simple yet take a lifetime to master and remember daily

Pointers for Follow Up
My take on the book is that it is more about how to live an enriched and empowered life rather than what the title literally suggests.I like Myss' works and this was in line with expectations.

Powerful, thought provoking
I've read Carolyn Myss before usually skimmed the books.This one I read all the way through and I found it's stories and interpretation of events to feel true.It's shaped how I view, what I do and what I feel before and after doing it.

LIKE IT
I HAVE READ AND LISTENDTO ALL OF HER WORKS....SO ENLIGHTENED... CHANGED MY PERSPECITIVE AND RECTIONS TO THIS JOURNEY CALL LIFE....

review
It arrived quickly and in better condition than I expected. It's a great read and I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Product Description
Renowned scholar N. T. Wright brings us the latest volumes in his acclaimed For Everyone series of New Testament commentaries: Acts, Parts One and Two. Part One covers chapters one through twelve, while Part Two covers chapters thirteen through twenty-eight. Each of these brief guides offers a short passage of text, in Wright s own accessible translation, followed by a highly readable and thought-provoking discussion. Background information about the text, helpful explanations about its meanings, and thoughts as to how it can be relevant to our lives today are woven together seamlessly in Wright s gracious and inviting style. A glossary is provided at the back of the books to provide further explanation of less-common words and phrases. These books are useful for Christian education classes for both youth and adults, as preaching aids, in confirmation classes, and as daily devotions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A great help for the Bible-Reader and for the Homilist
N.T. Wright is (deservedly) famous as a scripture scholar, but in this series addresses a general public. His explanations are well-founded. This is the fruit of biblical scholarship, not biblical scholarship itself and the discussion with colleagues that is so often found in academic commentaries is left out. Because Wright wants to engage, he uses a homiletic style which uses an image, often a story and often about him to introduce the reader to a small section of the text. Sometimes it works not very well, but it always makes a point. A homilist will find that this images can be adapted to make good attention grabbers. The exegesis is well founded and free of novelties for novelty's sake.

I would recommend this series to all who want to understand Christian scripture, to bible study groups, and to priests and all who want to and need to explain scripture. A theology student can certainly do worse for an introduction into an important book of the bible, and will find the interpretation a great help when tangling with the more involved exegesis that academia has to offer.

The Trials of Paul
For those unfamiliar with Wright's "______ for Everyone" series, they are a series of commentaries on the New Testament books by Bishop Wright based on his extensive historical scholarship. He provides his own translation (based on his study of the source languages) which is a very engaging paraphrase. The text is divided up into chronological topic-based segments, followed by a 2-3 page sermonette/commentary based on that section.

This volume covers chapters 13-28 of the Book of Acts, which could be considered as the "Trials of Paul" as it follows the adventures of Paul as he travels throughout the Mediterranean area, preaching the good news and encountering opposition everywhere he goes.The church continues to define its Jewish/Christian identity, chiefly over the circumcision issue and the prerequisites for admission to the fellowship of believers in a time when the Jews are "zealous" for their traditions and national identity under Roman occupation.

Of Wright's commentaries, this edition is unique in that many sections are illustrated with maps to show the areas mentioned and Pauls' journeys.Even though this is the longest volume (249 pages), it reads quickly like a novel, as we see Paul face his trials.Wright suggests that Luke has compiled this chronology as a sort of affidavit for Paul's trial to show that he has not offended against the Jewish traditions, being found not guilty repeatedly while the Jewish zealots attempt to stir up trouble for him.

Wright suggests that Paul's last voyage and shipwreck are Luke's allusion to Jesus' crucifixion and death and the story of Jonah.The end of the Book of Acts, Wright emphasizes, is our beginning.

(NOTE:I did notice an error in Wright's translation of Acts 25:12, which initially made me do a double-take: it is FESTUS, not FELIX, who tells Paul "to Caesar you shall go!")

Acts for Everyone
An uncommon commentary on the Acts of the Apostles.N.T. Wright does an excellent job of providing a "homily" on each portion of the Gospel message.His comments are different from the "more scholastic" commentaries; not item by item, but more pastoral in nature.Great for the beginner to study the Bible.

Great Book from one of the best
Tom Wright has written a series of New Testament commentaries that are easy and enjoyable to read. He combines excellent scholarship and insight with reader friendly simplicity. I highly recommend the Everyone series to everyone. In each book a very readable translation of the New Testament book being discussed, is provided by Tom Wright. He follows this by a story or anectedote and then gives his insightful comments on the text itself. At the end of each book is a helpful glossary of terms.

In chapters 1-12 that make up part 1 Wright skillfully walks us through the stories of the ascension, the outpouring of the Spirit in Acts 2, the spreading of the gospel by Peter before the Sanhedrin, the stoning of Stephen that caused the church to move out from Jerusalem into Judea, Samaria, and unto the utmost parts of the earth.This spread of the gospel climaxes with Peter and Cornelius and the spread of the gospel out into the Gentile world.

In part 2 he works his way through chapters 13-28.This will take you through the missionary journey's of Paul, the Jerusalem Council, Paul's trip to Jerusalem, his two years in prison at Ceaserea where he offers his defense before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa, then the trip to Rome, which includes Paul on the isle of Malta, and finally in Rome awaiting trial.Wright takes the position that Luke is taking Paul's life in parallel to Jesus, who set his face toward Jerusalem, where he knew the son of man would be handed over to be crucified.Paul, despite prophecies of warning from Agubus, goes to Jerusalem and causes a stir about the resurrection.He ends up in Rome preaching the Gospel.Wright masterfully walks us through the drama of Acts and does so with simple and easy clarity, but with the backing of great scholarship.

Everything from N.T Wright
Anything and everything by N.T.Wright is from Good to Excellent. I have never read anything below these levels and I have read just about everyting he has writen. The only one of dubious value is God and evil, which shows how difficult the subject is. ... Read more

Product Description
If you’d tried to control problem anger before with little success, this book offers you a new approach to try. Instead of asking you to struggle even harder with anger, this book helps you to drop the rope in your tug-of-war with anger using a new set of principles and techniques: acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

You’ll start by learning how to accept your angry feelings as they occur, without struggling to alter or impede them in any way. Then, using techniques based in mindfulness practice, you’ll find out how to watch your anger without identifying with it. Value-identification exercises help you decide what matters most to you and then commit to short- and long-term goals that turn these values into reality. In the process, anger simply loses power over your life—in the process, you’ll gain the most profound control, accomplished by simply letting go. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Changed my life forever
This will be perhaps my hardest review to write but I consider it one of the most important because I believe that there are many people out there like myself who are dealing with some severe anger issues and want help but have only been met with either judgement, prejudice or the prospect of years of therapy with no clear ending.

I want to give a little background about myself.I came from an abusive home.My mother was physically, verbally and emotionally abusive.Her anger was destructive in every way possible my father, myself and my siblings bore the brunt of it.My father dealt with it by taking in the anger and I saw it break him down.I was 19 when my parents finally began divorce proceedings.I essentially lived my whole childhood having the 2 most powerful role models not give me any healthy strategies for how to deal with anger.

So I did my best on my own to try and create what I thought were productive ways of handling it.I went for long walk or runs, I vented to my friends, I wrote for hours, I'd ignore it thinking it would just pass, when it would get really bad I'd punch a wall sometimes throw things.I knew I never wanted to hit another human being the way my mom did so I essentially beat myself up.All these actions hurt me emotionally or physically but I figured I was use to it so I could handle it.

Deep down I was scared that I would be doomed to repeat either the cycle of my mother or father by being either someone who would bear the brunt of someone's abuse or be an abuser myself.I swore off having children for a long time not because I didn't want them because I believed I didn't deserve them.I was also convinced that at some point my husband wouldn't be able to take my fits of rage and move onto someone he deserved better.After one particularly bad argument where I had cut up both my hands and arms from smashing them through glass - I knew that I couldn't keep doing this to myself or him any longer.

This book has changed my life.

The first thing this book teaches you is that there is no such thing as controlling anger - anger (more specifically the emotions that cause anger) is a natural part of life and trying to "control" it is destructive and pointless.You need to be taught ways to manage it instead.It also debunks a lot of anger myths.For example: most of us are taught that venting anger is healthy and normal when in fact it isn't.The strategies we've been given by others to manage anger actually feeds it and lets it grow.

The chapters have several concrete exercises that force you to really look at how you deal with anger and what it has cost you in your life.The authors themselves don't accuse or judge you but have a kind compassionate tone that makes you feel comfortable opening up.I believe that many of us who are angry have been really hurt before and are use to hearing the condescension of others which prevents us from moving forward.It makes us draw tighter into our anger because anger protects us from getting hurt.Reading this will make you want to drop your defenses.

It also has a lot of specific breathing techniques and mental imagery to help you deal with anger at its onset so it doesn't overwhelm you.Like many I thought that stuff was just mumbo jumbo but I swear that it works.

This is how my life is different:

I went and contacted family members who I've had grudges with for several years because of the issues stemming from my mother.I am working at building a new relationship with them.

My husband and I have had disagreements since my reading of the book but I actually seemed to be more rational one.I didn't yell, insult or resort to any destructive behavior even when it was a highly emotionally charged subject.

I actually helped resolve a grudge that had been going on in my husband's family for a long time that brought us all closer.Prior to reading this book I refused to even be involved with them at all.

My mother contacted me and I told her that I forgave her .. make no mistake that doesn't mean I have a relationship with her or condone what she did.It means I no longer hold onto my anger with her anymore so I can move on with my life.

The best part is this book promises to make these types of changes in your about 8 weeks not the years that therapy often takes (and at what cost!).I am a better, happier more empowered person because I read this book and devoted myself to making a change.

Great book on dealing with anger
This book is a very compact but good read about why we get uncontrollably angry&how to stop flying into rages over things that really don't warrant a response, let alone an angry one.There are excersizes so get out a notebook&once you find your flow, it's very easy to learn the techniques suggested/presented in this book.

Acceptance Commitment Therapy
this is a great guide to using acceptance commitment therapy to control anger.it includes exercises that are useful for personal or clincial work (if you're a psychologist).

A great addition to psychotherapy or mindfulness meditation
This book could be a great addition to anyone's therapy or meditation practice.For some, it can be therapy in itself.Anger can be the most troubling and still elusive feeling to understand and deal with.The more you try not to have it the more you will as so many of us have seen and experienced in our lives.The authors of this book guide our minds with simply and effectively while based upon current research.Once the reader can accept anger as a normal and natural but uncomfortable feeling, then the path to living life more fully opens up.The authors teach us that observing without acting out on these feelings helps us to gain control by letting go.The exercises are challenging but essential to the reader's success in using this profound little book.There is a wealth of wisdom and compassion expressed here so gently and deeply about all of life's challenges.

--Robert A. Naseef, Ph.D., psychologist, author of Special Children, Challenged Parents, and co-editor Voices from the Spectrum
Special Children, Challenged Parents: The Struggles and Rewards of Raising a Child With a Disability

Destructive anger destroys lives. Here's what to do about it.
With so many people acting destructively under the influence of anger these days the need for the methods and concepts outlined in this book is urgent. Of course anger is a normal human emotion that serves a real purpose. The problem is not anger itself but the dysfunctional expression of this common emotion. With the huge costs associated with the destructive expression of anger -- for the individuals involved and society as a whole -- it's hard to believe there's no mention of pathological anger in the DSM-IV, the medical establishment's bible of psychiatric diagnoses. This glaring error of omission means anger research doesn't get funded and therapists are ill-equipped to effectively treat clients presenting destructive anger. Eifert and co-authors present a wonderfully simple and effective approach based on the principles of ACT. This book should be required reading for all mental health professionals (and especially the individuals on the advisory committee for the DSM-V). ... Read more

Product Description
Are you ready to reap the benefits of the bestselling contact relationship manager (CRM) software on the market today? Well, then—get into the act with ACT! 2008 and find out how the latest version of this exciting software enables you to set up a database that’s right for you so that you can focus on your business and career growth while also saving time and money.

With this fun and friendly guide in hand, you’ll discover how ACT! organizes customer information in one place, safely shares customer info between workgroups, and provides you with forecast tools, reports, and a contact database. Whether you’re new to the features of ACT! or you are familiar with the basics but have not yet put to use ACT!’s more advanced abilities, this nuts-and-bolts reference has been updated and revised to make sure that you are up to speed on the most efficient way to organize your customer relationships and activities.

Author and full-time ACT! Certified Consultant and ACT! Premier Trainer Karen Fredricks walks you through tasks such as:

• Setting up the contact database
• Adding multiple contacts to a group and adding contacts to a company
• Changing contact-level security access
• Scheduling activities
• Using the basic ACT! Reports
• Designing new reports
• Automating the backup process
• Integrating with Outlook
• Creating groups

ACT! by Sage For Dummies, 9^th Edition also boasts a companion Web site that includes all the updates for the 2008 version of ACT! You’ll be amazed by just how quickly you’ll be able to set up a database and get it to act for you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Book review
Wasn't too happy and sent it back.It didn't indicate it for in a business format and lost more than half my money on the return.

Very basic help
This book is a very basic guide to understanding how to use the ACT! product.If you need more than entry-level help, try elsewhere.Writing style is infantile and cutsie at times - a real distraction when trying to figure out an ill-explained process.No help at all with editing templates for printing.I should have borrowed the book from the library before deciding whether to buy it (I wouldn't have bought it).

Not Perfect But Worth Buying
Good book, not perfect, but good... and there's not much else out there. Go ahead and buy it, I'm confident that you won't regret it.

Organizing your contacts made easy
This book is fabulous.It takes the dummy and shows him how to use a piece of software that manages all of your contacts.In addition to learning the features of the software, it suggests ways to improve your business with the features of the software.Do you know how to track how your client found your business?Do you know where each of your prospects or clients is in the pipeline?Can you classify all of your contacts by various categories?These answers and numerous more business tips are given and explained.

Oh yes.The sense of humor in the book is compelling.

No promised CD-ROM came--tried twice
I ordered this because it features a CD-ROM.

No CD-ROM came with the order.No CD-ROM came with the order that was supposed to fix that error.

This book isn't featured on the Dummies website.

I'm wondering what the deal is...and thought I'd try to prevent others from having my flustration.

... Read more

Product Description
Little Things Mean a Lot

How do you show your mommy and daddy that you love them?
Do you give them a hug?
Bring them flowers?
Tell them you love them?

God wants to know that you love Him too.
So how do you show God you love Him?
In lots of little ways.

By visiting the church even when it’s not Sunday.
By bowing your head when you hear the name of Jesus.
By making the Sign of the Cross.
By doing lots of little things that mean a lot!

These little acts of grace help us and keep our minds and hearts focused on God.But most of all, they let Him know just how much we love Him every day! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Too Late
The Book came in good condition, however it took almost a month to get here.It was already too late to take with me to my granddaughter.The other two items I ordered arrived within a week.Very disappointed in the delay.

Relevant
My son and I went through this book, a page a day, when he was 2 1/2 years old.He got a lot out of it, but I plan to go through it about once a year with him to go a little deeper with each topic.He really enjoyed learning to genuflect and to say a prayer when you see an emergency vehicle!

Nice little gift book
This is a great little book to read to 4 or 5 year old catholic children.I bought them as an end of year gift for a sunday school class.I was super pleased!

Excellent
Really like the way this book is set up. It might be a little advanced for my 3 year old but I'm starting early. Not really one to read in church because it may require extra explanation from the parent. But it does give a lot of information. Great starting point. Good for families and parents to start teaching their kids the basics of mass.

Touches the heart
This little book touches the hearts of young children as well as those reading the book to them.The charming illustrations and beautiful sentiments expressed in this book will ignite a child's fire to grow closer to God. ... Read more

Product Description
Two mice make a teeter-totter. They're balancing just fine, but then along comes a frog. Can they make room for one more friend on their teeter-totter? What about two? What about more? But then a big bird comes along and wants to play too. Better watch out! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This is a simply darling story of the friendship between two itsy bitsy mice and their balancing act with their friends!
Two itsy bitsy mice decided it would be fun to make a teeter-totter.They carried their stick to a pile of sand, set it up and were in business.One step, two steps, and maybe three and they were perfectly balanced."Ta-da!"Well, they were balanced until a goofy red salamander decided he wanted a turn. Well, one mouse went up, the other mouse went down just as soon as the salamander stepped on one end of the stick.Oh, my!Before you know it, "a friend stepped in to help."Two itsy bitsy mice and two salamanders later and everything was perfectly balanced.

Next thing you know, everyone was wide-eyed when they saw a frog leap through the air.PLOP!Everything was out of balance again, "but then, another frog. . . "Whew, back in balance!The stick was certainly getting crowded with everyone piled on. Next thing you know a huge blue and white spotted bird came flying through the air and PLOP. . .landed on top of the frog and the salamander.Of course everyone else went flip, flopping off the teeter-totter.Just how could two itsy bitsy mice, two salamanders, two frogs, and one big old bird balance that teeter-totter again?

This is a simply darling story of the friendship between two itsy bitsy mice and the balancing act with the critters who wanted to join them.The story is very simple, but will elicit smiles and giggles from other little critters who see them in action.The expressive artwork meshed perfectly with the dialogue.When that frog was seen flying through the air the two itsy bitsy mice and the salamanders knew exactly what would happen, as will the young child."Uh-oh!A frog."This book, A Junior Library Guild Selection, is one that will be appreciated for many years to come.If you have an expressive voice, this itsy bitsy story would be perfect for circle or story time! ... Read more

Product Description

• Kaplan's exclusive, time-saving strategies
• 1 Full-length practice test with complete answer explanations
• Targeted review and realistic practice for the Math, English, Reading, and Science sections of the ACT
• Preparation for the optional writing component
• Stress management tips

Customer Reviews (2)

ACT TBA
I'm an adult re-taking the ACT soon. I've been preparing for quite sometime. This book has been a great tool in attempting to do so. There is a lot of room for more review, but I recommend this highly. The explanations are clear, quick, and rather easy to digest. Even comes with a decent practice test.

very helpful
My daughter thought this was the most helpful of the ACT prep books I purchased.The others I ordered were a book of 10 practice tests, as well as books specifically geared toward math and reading.This one gave fast, last minute tips for making it through the test ensuring you are representing yourself and abilities in the best possible light.

... Read more

Product Description
During the annual Pickle Fest, Abby's boyfriend Marco inexplicably disappears for a day. When he returns, he's the main suspect in the death of a clown. It seems the cops have found Snuggles pushing up water-spurting daisies-and Marco was the last person seen leaving Snuggles's house. Although Marco is still a mystery to her, Abby knows he's innocent. Now she has to find a way to prove it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Violets getting in the act
One of my favorite series and it never gets dull.I read this in half a day did not want to put it down at all.I was eager to see how Abby was going to clean Marco's name and I did not figure out who did the real murder till the end.A great read as always and getting ready to start the next one

WORTH THE READ---
No "Annoying Abby" in this one. Characters and story are wacky fun through and through.

Abby is back...
Abby is attending the annual Pickle Fest with her best friend Nikki, when she has an encounter with one of the clowns. She innocently mentions this to Marco and then learns the clown has been murdered. With Marco as the only suspect, Abby really has to put her amateur sleuthing to work. To complicate matters, Marco is seen with a gorgeous woman at the Pickle Fest and his mother is in town. Abby knows Marco is innocent despite the evidence against him. Can Abby find the real killer and clear Marco's name?

Acts of Violets is the fifth book in A Flower Shop Mystery Series. What I liked best about this book is the reader learns more about Marco's history. Until now, the author focuses on Abby and her family, so it's a welcome change that Marco's mother and sister are introduced. I hope we'll see more of them in future books. If you're looking for a good cozy series, I recommend Abby Knight and her friends.

Murder and secrets
Snuggles the Clown is murdered.Marco, the hunky ex-cop and owner of Down the Hatch Bar and Grill, is their chief suspect because he was the last one seen leaving Snuggles' house.

Marco asks Abby Knight, owner of Bloomers flower shop and his girlfriend, to help find the killer.She's solved some murders in the past, but she's nervous about this one.If she fails, Marco could go to jail.

As a cop, Marco had a run-in with Snuggles (Dennis Ryson) and then Marco left the force soon after.Plus Marco fought with Snuggles shortly before the murder.

Abby finds that Marco seems to have secrets.Who is Trina to Marco?She'd been threatened by Ryson and asked Marco to help her.

Can Abby find the murderer so Marco won't go to jail?And why won't Marco let Abby meet his mother?

Abby and Marco are great together.I liked that he asked Abby to do the investigating in this book.There were plenty of suspects and twists to keep me guessing and turning the pages.This series is a great cozy mystery series that I love reading.I highly recommend this book!

great series
I really enjoyed this book! The Flower Shop series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. ... Read more

Product Description
F.F. Bruce's revised study on the Book of Acts is a contribution to The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Prepared by some of the world's leading scholars, the series provides an exposition of the New Testament books that is thorough and fully abreast of modern scholarship yet faithful to the Scriptures as the infallible Word of God. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Outstanding commentary
F.F. Bruce brings a unique capacity for biblical and historical insight. His broad knowledge of scripture coupled with in-depth historical knowledge of the biblical world make this commentary an essential part of anyone desiring to teach or simply enrich their personal knowledge of the events described in the book of Acts.

Good but not great
I used this commentary for chapters 1-9:31 for an assignment on Acts - so I can't comment on the remainder of the book, only what I used. So take my comments with pinch of salt.

Bruce's commentary was helpful, but I agree with other reviewers who said he does little more than restate the text. He doesn't deal with any tough theological questions that the text brings up. For example, When Peter is before the Sanhedrin and says that Jesus is the stone the builders have rejected, he rightly insists that this was imagery for speaking of Israel, rejected by nations but favoured by God. But Bruce stops there and doesn't press on further to grapple with the theological significance of this text. What does it mean to say that Jesus is now the rejected cornerstone? How does that affect or change the relationship with Israel and the Church?

As such I did not find it that useful for my assignment on early Church in Acts. I would reccomend The NIV Application Commentary, I.Howard Marshall's commentary on Acts (Tyndale NTC), John Stott's BST on Acts, and Tom Wright's Acts for everyone as additional resources if you already own Bruce. Ironically as introductory commentaries they go further than Bruce to wrestle with some of the issues the text raises. You may not agree with their conclusions but at least they are engaging with the text critically and asking deeper questions.

Very Good First Commentary on Acts
`The Book of the Acts, Revised' in `The New International Commentary on the New Testament' series, written by F. F. (Frederick Fyvie) Bruce, is an excellent addition to this series, and a worthy follow-up to Joel Green's commentary on `The Gospel of Luke' in the same series. I once made two mistaken statements about this series, commonly abbreviated as NICNT. The first is that the editors tend to commission relatively junior scholars to do their commentaries, often as revisions of their doctoral dissertations. The second is that the series uses the relatively old `American Standard Version' translation of 1901. Both Professors Green and Bruce are distinctly senior, highly qualified commentators, both of whom contribute their own translations. As I always use the NRSV as a primary translation, I look forward to a commentator's own personal translation, based on a deep knowledge of the particular scripture. And, Professor Bruce has a deeper knowledge than most, as he finished a commentary on the Greek text of Acts before doing this commentary.
The separate commentary on the Greek has a salutary effect on the current work, as it separates out all the tedious philological and text critical findings for those who are primarily interested in such things. That leaves only professor Bruce's commentary on the literary, historical, and theological matters we find in Luke's Acts.
Acts does not have quite as many interpretational difficulties as Luke's Gospel. Therefore, some commentators' approach, such as the more recent work by Darrell Bock, tends to obscure the relatively cleaner text by discussing many different interpretations, including many from this volume. Like many of the commentators in `The New Interpreter's Bible (NIB)', Bruce focuses on a clean and illuminating organization of the text, with excellent material for applying the text to modern church and pastoral questions. Unlike the NIB, Bruce has excellent references to Hebrew sources, primarily the Mishnah. If fact, it was Bruce's commentary which pushed me to finally get a copy of the Mishnah as an aid to understanding references to Jewish practice in both the Hebrew and Christian scriptures.
It may not count for much in many reviewers' evaluations, but I also find the design of the NICNT volumes' typesetting to be superior to many other series, especially to the Word Biblical Commentary volumes. It does little good to have excellent material if aging eyes find it difficult to read it.
Like Green's commentary, I would suggest Bruce's volume over many others, with the one caveat that it is at least ten (10) years older than several important new commentaries, such as the Anchor Bible contribution by Joseph Fitzmyer and at least five (5) years older than Luke Timothy Johnson's Sacra Pagina volume, and both are important and useful for the lay or pastoral user. So, I strongly recommend this volume, used together with Fitzmyer's volume or some other recent commentary. For those reviewers who do not find much new, I sympathize with their observation, but suggest that this is more evidence for the fact that this is a very good first (but not only) commentary on Acts for the pastoral or lay user.

One word: WOW!
I don't want to write a lengthy review, but I do want you to know that this is a very well written commentary.I thought that I truly understood the book of Acts.After all, I've read the book of Acts over twenty times in my lifetime, but now I truly believe that I was missing about 60% of what Luke is trying to show his audience.With the help of F.F Bruce you will begin to see how from the beginning of the church God intended to bring the gospel to Jews and Gentiles and how he seamlessly brought that about.It also becomes very clear that the Apostles vigorously stressed the diety of Christ from Peter's very first sermon in Acts chapter two.You'll be able to understand, and appreciate how James ended up being the leader of the church in Jerusalem despite the fact that Peter was the undisputed leader early on.

I don't want to drone on, but this is an excellant commentary.Of all the commentaries that I've read, and I've read a fair number, this is my favorite.You'll probably read it cover to cover.I did.

Scholarly Insights into the Book of Acts
The late Dr. F.F. Bruce was a well respected biblical scholar and his commentaries and books have greatly benefited the Church of Christ.It is no different than with this work on the Book of Acts.

This book falls in line with the rest of the New International Commentary on the New Testament edited by Gordon Fee.The NIC is a solid evangelical commentary on the New Testament with the differing opinions stated in the works (see Revelation for example).Dr. Bruce has gone to great lengths to point out the differences among evangelicals in Acts.The commentary itself is full of Greek word studies, historical and geographical points, maps, and solid exegesis of every passage in Acts.

My only drawback with this work on Acts as well as the other works of the NICNT is that they are not laid out in expository outlines.It would be helpful if every section was given an expository outline to help the reader when moving through the sections of the Scriptures that the authors are working through.For a better expository outline see the commentaries of John MacArthur or John Phillips. ... Read more

Product Description
In her award-winning memoir Here If You Need Me, Kate Braestrup won the hearts of readers across the country with her deeply moving and deftly humorous stories of faith, hope and family. Now, with her inimitable voice and generous spirit, she turns her attention to the subjects of love and commitment in MARRIAGE AND OTHER ACTS OF CHARITY.



As a minister, Kate Braestrup regularly performs weddings. She has also, at 44, been married twice and widowed once, and accordingly has much to say about life after the ceremony.From helping a newlywed couple make amends after their first fight to preparing herself for her second marriage, Braestrup offers her insights and experiences on what it truly means to share your life with someone, from the first kiss to the last straw, for better or for worse.



Part memoir, part observation of modern marriage, and part meditation on the roles of God and love in our everyday lives, MARRIAGE AND OTHER ACTS OF CHARITY is a unique and unforgettable look into why, and how, we love each other, and proves yet again why Kate Braestrup's writing is "inspirational in the best sense" (New York Daily News). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

Marriage Offers Good Advice
Marriage and Other Acts of Charity is Kate Braestrup's second book - this one focusing on marriage and relationships. Braestrup shares personal accounts from her own life as well as those of friends and acquaintances. In 1996 Braestrup's first husband, Drew, was killed in a car accident, leaving her alone with four small children. She is able to recount highs and lows in their relationship and that of her parent's as well. Her role as a chaplain has also given her training in counseling young couples. Using Bible verses that support her points, this book was well written and full of understanding from someone who it is obvious "gets it" in terms of relationships and marriage. Braestrup has remarried and also shares portions of her time dating her husband and how their relationship works.

This is also the second book I have read on the Kindle. I still don't have a clue how to look up various points of interest or how to make notes about what I have read, but this book would definitely be the type of book I would look back on for reflection and thought.

nice story telling
The author is a clergywoman, twice married, after her first husband died in an automobile accident.He was a Maine State Policeman.This is a very good story of the author's growth through this ordeal.I was moved by the one page in this book that identified that the ancient word for love was "charity".Perhaps I thought that the book would take on a selflessness, like a Ganhi story, but, it never did.Sadly, I was disappointed that it didn't go as far as I'd hoped.It's not at all a bad book, it's written well, is entertaining, and not terribly long.I didn't feel the sense of connection with the author that I usually feel.Perhaps she was more distant or perhaps I was.Overall, I give this a B- and I recommend it.

Charity begins at home
As a Unitarian Minister, Maine State Game Warden Chaplain, Mother, Widow, and Wife; Kate Braestrup shares her observations on love and her view of the meaning of life through her latest memoir Marriage and Other Acts of Charity. Braestrup's musings meander from subject to subject without an apparent direction other than to impress upon the reader just what love is. She reminds us that there is more than one kind of love, and charity (or caritas as she calls it throughout) is the kind of love that brings us closer to God and gives our lives meaning.

Charity isn't just about giving a donation to the poor, but giving of yourself for those you don't know, as well as for those you love. Charity is taking the woman who fell off the bus to the hospital, as well as cleaning out a fish tank in the middle of the night. Charity shows that unlike the movie Love Story's famous quote, love does mean saying you're sorry over and over again. Charity means that knowing "till death do us part" is the best case scenario for your marriage, and that you want to marry your spouse anyway.

While I enjoyed the lessons Braestrup made throughout her memoir, I feel I may have been at a disadvantage by listening to the audio version.

I found it hard to get into it at first because listening to someone read and listening to someone talk, are two completely different things. Braestrup also sounded tentative through the first chapters, but seemed to find her stride in later chapters. After becoming accustomed to the author's voice, it finally seemed like I was listening to a relative or friend talk about all of the crazy things that goes on in her life.

The book also seemed to be overwrought with intellectual words that seemed out of place. The stories Braestrup told are straight out of her small-town Maine life, but then she tosses in words like palimpsest, inchoate, and salvific (which I hope I spelled right, since I didn't have a book to read them from). Braestrup also insists on saying caritas instead of charity throughout the book, as though she were trying to make the memoir an intellectual pursuit as opposed to one of love.

Other than those nuisances, I found Marriage and Other Acts of Charity completely charming, and full of ideas to ponder.

The key, as the author points out, one hundred percent of marriages end . . . so the only recourse is Jesus' message: Love more.
Heard MARRIAGE AND OTHER ACTS OF CHARITY; A MEMOIR,
read and written by Kate Braestrup . . . she's a minister, as well as
author, who candidly shared her experiences in this book that's apparently
a follow-up to her earlier HERE IF YOU NEED ME.

I have not yet read that first title, but did not find it necessary to have done so
to enjoy her second effort . . . parts of it were funny, for example when she
describes how she got to teach sexual morality to a group of snickering
13-year-old kids . . . I also got a kick out of her dating experiences, including
her tale of not noticing her future husband's new "look" after he shaved his beard.

Yet other parts of the book were quite moving . . . I could feel her pain as she
described her fights with her police officer husband that eventually led them
both to seek counseling . . .they both stayed together, though, jolted by the thought
that they might lose each other . . . shortly thereafter, he died in a car accident, so
Braestrup had to start all over and managed to do so with the help of family and
friends who rallied to support her and the couple's four children.

She brings these examples into her story, along with those involving other
couples she has counseled including a game warden and his wife-to-be and a
soon-to-be divorced couple.

The key, as the author points out, is to keep in mind that one hundred percent
of marriages end . . . so the only recourse is Jesus' message: Love more.

This is an enjoyable read
In Kate Braestrup's latest book: Marriage and Other Acts of Charity: A Memoir, she offers wisdom and commonsense advice. She discusses the three types of love eros, philos, and agape. She uses examples of couples that have sought her counseling.

Braestrup is an ordained minister in the Unitarian Church. She entered the ministry after the death of her husband. However, this is not a religious book. She was very careful to keep an unbiased perspective. This book is not one that common laymen will pick up and breeze through. The vocabulary is a bit difficult for most. I find Braestrup to be very honest when it comes to herself. This is an enjoyable read. ... Read more

Product Description
This brand-new workbook gives college-bound students extensive practice and review that will help them excel on all three verbal sections and all four reading genres of the ACT. An introductory overview explains the formats for the English Test, the Reading Test, and the Writing Test. A full-length self-assessment test follows with an answer key and explanations to help students assess their strengths and weaknesses. Succeeding chapters review the subject matter of all three tests and present drills, strategies, practice questions, study advice, and test-taking tips. Students review English grammar, punctuation, and style. They sharpen their reading comprehension with practice passages in the Humanities, Natural Science, Prose Fiction, and Social Science. Finally, they hone their essay-writing skills, guided by the authorÂ's instruction in organizing their ideas, writing a rough draft, and editing the finished essay. A final chapter presents a full-length practice test with answers and explanations. ... Read more

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Conquer the ACT with the experts from McGraw-Hill!

McGraw-Hill's ACT is revised and improved for the 2011 edition, giving you more of an edge for when you tackle the exam. It provides sample exams designed to match the real ACT in degree of difficulty, as well as classroom-tested tips and strategies for mastering every question type.

Product Description

We want to help you succeed on the math portion of the ACT*

"If you want a short but concise guide to the ACT with every trick and mathematical explanation necessary to get a perfect score, this is the book for you." --Dr. Michele Hernandez, author of the A is for Admission, The Middle School Years, and Acing the College Application

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We've put all of our proven expertise into McGraw-Hill's Top 50 Skills for a Top Score. With this book, you'll master the essential skills identified by a prominent ACT instructor and add points to your score. You'll get focused instruction on these crucial skills, helpful exercises, pre- and posttests to check your weaknesses and progress, and two additional tests on the accompanying CD-ROM. With McGraw-Hill's Top Skills for a Top Score: ACT Math, we'll guide you step by step through your preparation and give you the tools you need to succeed.

Inside you'll find:

• 50 essential skills with step-by-step sample exercises
• A pretest to identify your weaknesses and a posttest to track your progress
• Two additional tests on CD-ROM
• Strategies to help you answer every type of ACT math item

Customer Reviews (2)

Quick review of what's on the ACT Math.
If you just want a quick review book than this is the book for you. This book is short,concise, with all topics reviewed.All answers are clearly explained. The first review gave a very accurate description of how the book was organized, so I will not repeat. The book itself is well organized.
However, if are looking a more intensive math practice,a better book would be McGraw-Hill's CONQUERING THE ACT MATH.

The Best Prep For The Math Portion Of The ACT
I have not been in school since 2006 and I just took my ACT last weekend. After signing up for the ACT, I spent hours online trying to pick out the book that would help me prepare. I am very strong with English and Reading, but a little more than rusty on my Math skills. I decided to purchase a book that would mainly focus on the Math section. This book was my decision. The only book I purchased for ACT prep. At first I was unsure if I had made the right choice in the one book that would help me get ready for this big test. When I sat down and started taking the pretest, I realized I was in deeper than I thought. But when the lessons started--I mean the "skills", I started to understand the equations and it made the Math seem a lot simpler. Each lesson has 5 questions; ranging from easy to hard, that help you review each skill. After you are through with all the skills, there is a review and a posttest. There is also a CD-ROM attached that has 2 additional practice test. I completed the book and both practice tests. The night before the test, I didn't need to cram. The Math test was second, after English. I was so confident with my Math and with the help of a good calculator (TI-30XIIS), I even had time to go back and check my work! This book really helped me prepare for everything that was included on the test. I was so happy with the results and how much I learned! ... Read more

Product Description
This updated test prep manual for college-bound students presents detailed review of all ACT test topics--English, math, reading, science reasoning--and guidance in responding to the optional essay. All subject review sections include additional practice questions, study tips, and test-taking strategies. The book also offers a diagnostic test and three full-length ACT practice exams with all questions answered and explained. The enclosed CD-ROM presents computerized versions of two additional full-length ACT tests with answers. Test sections on the CD-ROM can be timed to simulate actual test-taking conditions, or taken in the untimed mode as practice. ... Read more

Product Description
Respected New Testament scholar Darrell L. Bock provides a substantive yet highly accessible commentary on Acts in this latest addition to the acclaimed BECNT series. With extensive research and thoughtful chapter-by-chapter exegesis, Bock leads readers through all aspects of the book of Acts--sociological, historical, and theological. His work blends academic depth with readability, making it a useful tool for students, teachers, scholars, and pastors alike. A user-friendly design with shaded text and translations of the Greek text make this commentary engaging and easy to use. The result is a guide that clearly and meaningfully brings this important New Testament book to life for contemporary readers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Luke 1:77refutes
Just read Luke 1:77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins.
So in our last verse we see that God gives knowledge to Israel by remission of sins. The modern day church
can't apply this to the rest of scripture saying that this is the start of our church; Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
So we are in the great falling away when Saved(90%) can't distinguish part of Daniels 70th week in Acts with when our age actually starts.

Read it before before buying it
Surely there will be someone else writing about this book, so I'm going try to help you in another way.

When you start reading biblical commentaries you will need to be aware that the thoughts expressed by the author deal with facts and speculations that should of happened. You can NEVER rely on only one commentary to affirm something about the Bible. You need at least three good commentaries.

Try to read biblical commentaries from different confessions of faith (e.g., Calvinism vs. Arminianism; Pentecostal vs. non-Pentecostal; Catholic vs. Protestant; Egalitarian vs. Complementarian; Amillennialism vs. Premillennialism vs. Postmillennialism; etc). Look for their arguments: What do they agree or disagree on? Which of them is closest to the biblical text? It's not a sin to read commentaries written from other points of view. You will notice that what is fact or solid argument will be seen over and over on different commentaries, so you will start learning what is speculation and what is not.

As Haddon W. Robinson said in his book, Biblical Preaching, (second edition, page 22), "In approaching a passage, we must be willing to reexamine our doctrinal convictions and to reject the judgments of our most respected teachers."

Remember, a commentary is not the biblical text. Do not replace the authority of the Bible with a commentary. The same apply for Study Bibles. The study notes there are not written by "apostles and prophets," so never confuse the "gospel" with the teacher or preacher. Learn to separate it.

Commentaries are important because nobody can get a poem from one language and translate it with the same structure to another language. This simply does not exist. Words, phrases, and sentences are rooted in a specific time, culture and custom. About Bibles, the best way is to check different translations, but be cautious about a very loose translation.

For you to appreciate any biblical commentary you need to know what level of reading you are. I'm going call them beginner, intermediate and advanced. I recommend the following biblical commentaries that you can start from. All of them have both Old Testament and New Testament. (If you're thinking of buying the whole set, look for the CD edition; it's cheaper and you can take it with you where you go.)

Beginner - NIV Application Commentary (NIVAC) by Zondervan.
(or)The Bible Speaks Today Series (BST) by IVP (This is a growing series and not yet complete.)

Intermediate - New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT) and New International Commentary on the Old Testament (NICOT) by Eerdmans

Advanced - Word Biblical Commentary (WBC) by Thomas Nelson

These are basic commentaries on their own level, but there are a lot of commentaries today, so don't forget to look for more information. Maybe you can get information from one of these: (1) Commentary and Reference Survey: A Comprehensive Guide to Biblical and Theological Resources by John Glynn, (2) New Testament Commentary Survey by D. A. Carson, (3) Old Testament Commentary Survey by Tremper Longman.

There are good and expensive commentaries such as the Anchor Bible (AB); International Critical Commentary (ICC) or Hermeneia (HERM). [Do not forget of Calvin and Luther].

I don't know about catholic commentaries, but you can check reviews on "Sacra Pagina" and "Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture."

Other than those mentioned above (NIVAC; BST; NICNT; WBC; AB; ICC; HERM) you can also check:Expositor Bible Commentary (EBC); New American Commentary (NAC); Pillar New Testament Commentary (PNTC); New International Greek Testament Commentary (NIGTC); Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (BECNT); and others.

Another thing, it can be a very good commentary, but it does not mean that you will agree with everything in it. Remember, "new" does not mean it's updated, and "updated" does not mean it's better.

Purpose - You can read a book to get information, even if you are not interested in a deep study of the biblical text. In this case it's better to start reading something from your own confession of faith and always on your level of reading. If after some time you become interested in more, go check other commentaries, but please, do not skip "How To Read A Book" by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren.

Responsibility - It is your responsibility study the biblical text before checking a commentary. Sometimes this is not an easy task so I'm giving you some other references that you can check at the end of this review. If I had read a review like this before, I would know how to prevent some mistakes.

Do not let you knowledge kill your faith! - "For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith." Hebrews 4:2 NIV - (Read also 1 Corinthians 1:21-24; 2:13-14; 3:18-23; Jude 1:3).

I can't leave without suggesting some other tools to help you: (1) How To Read A Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren; (2) Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation by Henry Virkler and Karelynne Ayayo; (3) New Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors by Gordon Fee; and (4) Old Testament Exegesis: A Handbook for Students and Pastors by Douglas Stuart. [Although book #3 and 4 deals with Biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), you can learn a lot from them even if you do not know the languages]. (5) "Basics of Biblical Greek" Grammar by William D. Mounce [after you start reading it maybe you can add "Biblical Greek Survival Kit" and "Sing and Learn New Testament Greek" audio CD by Kenneth Berding]; (6) "English Grammar in Use" by Raymond Murphy (Third Edition with Cd-Rom). (7) Eusebius' Ecclesiastical History: Complete and Unabridged. - All of these will help you to understand HOW a good commentary must be written. Good Luck!

unbeatable
This commentary is amazing.Bock is the best out there on Luke and Acts.Conservative, and very scholarly.He will open your eyes.Also read his book, Jesus according to Scripture.

A Great Evangelical Commentary on Acts
This commentary is one of the best commentaries available on the book of Acts.There are not many questions that Darrell Bock overlooks.He interacts with the secondary literature, informing his readers of the various positions, then carefully explains the rationale for his own conclusions.

Knowledge of Greek is not required for this commentary, but helpful.Greek words and phrases are rendered in Greek, but are also transliterated with the meaning close at hand in the immediate context.On occasion, however, a previous understanding of Greek grammar is sometimes assumed.For example, he may incidentally mention such things as "epexegetical infinitives," "datives of purpose," and "ingressive aorists" without explanation.When a grammatical observation is particularly significant, however, he does give a thorough explanation.

If you could only have one evangelical commentary on the book of Acts, it should either be this one by Darrell Bock or the one by Ben Witherington.Together, they form a dynamic duo.If you are looking for a brief commentary, check out Richard Longnecker or I H Marshall.

Bock-Acts Commentary
Bock's commentary is very user friendly, the research is well done and thorough, and this resource is very helpful for those wanting to do serious study in the Book or Acts. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (4)

theatricum pragmaticum
also a wellspring for any of the theatrical arts. All excercises applies to acting and stage direction in general. Written with care and devotion to dance, and useful any and all of the arts.

the best book on choreographyI have ever read
This book is an amazing low key masterpiece of creativity and skill.Lynne was a terrific teacher, mentor and choreographer and her work in this book is lasting and significant.I did not work with or know Tarin personally but Lynne spoke fondly of her while I was her student.

Students of choreography should not be without this book.

Perfect for composition
If you're taking a composition class or teaching a composition class, this book IS the thing to use. It teaches you the basics, what will work, what might work, what won't work.

It's wonderful!

The Intimate act of Choreography
This book is a masterpiece of creative and technical inspiration for choreographers eveywhere.It breaks dance down to its most minute details, and slowly builds into a work of art.This book is truly at the forefront of dance literature. ... Read more

Product Description
Named a USA Today Best Bet for Educators, this is a book that encourages grace through the smallest gestures. The inspiration for the kindness movement, Random Acts of Kindness is an antidote for a weary world. Its true stories, thoughtful quotations, and suggestions for generosity inspire readers to live more compassionately in this beautiful new edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

It's Cool to be Kind
You know, it never hurts to be kind to your neighbor, friend, stranger, even a beggar on the street. Kindness paid is returned in kind. I believe that. Kindness is good and anybody who doesn't believe that has mush for brains. That said, this little book has a big heart. It's about as inspirational as they come, full of kindness quotations by such luminaries as Robert Browning, Thomas Hobbs, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jack London and many more. This wonderful little book sits on top of the paper of my in basket at work, handy, in case I think I'm about to blow my top. Sometimes you just have to reach outside of yourself to maintain your cool and don'tcha know, it's cool to be kind.

random acts of kindness
I have used the messages and medications in front of many groups as a way to close the meetings.

It is an awesome read.

Heart-warming reading
This was a mixed read; the stories ranged from "how did that get in here?" to "I feel a bit teary now!"
I love the idea of random acts of kindness, of people doing to others without thought of acknowledgement, benefit or any kind of return (except perhaps a warm inner glow).
Reading these stories renewed my faith in the tendency of many to be thoughtful, giving and just plain, decent.
The book also has quotes throughout it and gives some ideas for performing your own random act of kindness.

Positive
The seller was very responsive when I let him know one less book shipped than ordered.Immediately he credited my account.Very nicely packed, true to condition of books (excellent), and plesant to order from on Amazon.

I've always depended on the kindness of strangers
Indeed, we have all depended on the kindness of strangers.Wouldn't it be nice to pick up a book with easy, practical ways to help you pay all that kindness forward? Well, in Random Acts of Kindness, you've got enough strategies to last you a lifetime. Have you ever thought of popping in on a friend who is a single parent who simply never has enough time to do anything for him or herself and ask, "What do you need? I'm here to help; put me to work"?Well, I hadn't either until this book matter-of-factly illustrated what an incredible blessing such an act might be for a friend in need.This is just one of many simple, practical loving ways to perform random acts of kindness. You'll want to own this book and keep it close to you. ... Read more

Product Description
Revised and updated, the MacArthur Study Guide Series takes the participant on a journey through the Bible, book by book. Inquisitive questions, "Keys to the Text" feature, and new material compose this useful and concise tool from renowned Bible teacher John MacArthur. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Luke 1:77 refutes modern Christianity
Just read Luke 1:77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins.
So in our last verse we see that God gives knowledge to Israel by remission of sins. The modern day church
can't apply this to the rest of scripture saying that this is the start of our church; Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
So we are in the great falling away when Saved(90%) can't distinguish part of Daniels 70th week in Acts with when our age actually starts.

decent customer service but unhappy with result
I bought this book used. When it arrived the entire study was filled out, however the description of the book on Amazon had made no mention of there being writing in it.The company was prompt with their response that that would be happy to refund me the cost of the book and the initial shipping, but that I would have to cover the shipping to get it back to them.Since this shipping would likely have been 5 times what the book cost me I didn't think it was worth it.So now I'm stuck with a book I can't use.The people were nice, but I was unhappy with the decision not to refund ALL of my shipping costs- the fault was their's in misrepresenting the book.

Good but commentary is better
Bought this as a study guide, which is great if used in partnership with the commentary.If you are buying only one, I suggest the commentary.But, like all the Macarthur books, this is very good.

5 Big Stars
Reviewed by David (Johnson Ferry Baptist) (Marietta, GA), January 29, 2008

Our men's Monday night Bible study has just finished the MacArthur ACTS Study Guide. The men really like this study series and have voted to go on to another book in the series. We especially like the numerous insightful notes that go with the scripture (which is printed in the book). This is just right for a men's study group because the questions are straight to the point and don't wonder off subject. The men also have enjoyed this particular Acts study, because of it's rich historical nature. Because of it's historical interest, this would be a great FIRST study (perhaps after LUKE) for MEN interested in Bible study. We highly recommend it!! FIVE BIG stars!

A good study of a good story
Ogilvie's treatment of Acts was easy to read and educational.He made atwo thousand year old book come alive with its historical context andspiritual importance.This was the first of this series I read, and itprompted me to buy more.The style of the other authors has not measuredup with his. ... Read more

Product Description
Philip Caputo’s tragic and epically ambitious new novel is set in Sudan, where war is a permanent condition. Into this desolate theater come aid workers, missionaries, and mercenaries of conscience whose courage and idealism sometimes coexist with treacherous moral blindness. There’s the entrepreneurial American pilot who goes from flying food and medicine to smuggling arms, the Kenyan aid worker who can’t help seeing the tawdry underside of his enterprise, and the evangelical Christian who comes to Sudan to redeem slaves and falls in love with a charismatic rebel commander.

As their fates intersect and our understanding of their characters deepens, it becomes apparent that Acts of Faith is one of those rare novels that combine high moral seriousness with irresistible narrative wizardry.    ... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

A literary moral tale set in the Sudan
Philip Caputo's superb, masterly novel of missionaries, aid workers, mercenaries, entrepreneurs and others in war torn Sudan is a highly intelligent, plot-rich novel exploring the complexities of the human condition....courage, idealism, tenacity, faith, barbarism, and moral uncertainties.Numerous characters, the drama and interplay of their lives, a rich, multi-layered plot, and the backdrop of modern Africa are convincingly portrayed in the context of the desolation and tragedy of the Sudanese civil war.While Caputo's novel is set in Sudan, it clearly has greater universal application regarding the political, economic and moral challenges of the modern world.An important, compelling work of literature. Highly recommended.

Just what I ordered
I received this book ahead of schedule. It was in excellent condition. I'm very satisfied with this purchase.

You can feel the sand in your teeth
I would rank this as Caputo's best fiction to date, slightly above Horn of Africa yet below his biographies A Rumor of War and Means of Escape. The book centers around an unlikely group of misfits in post-colonial Sudan: Douglas, a Gulf War vet with an ideological streak, Wesley, a rough-and-tumble pilot with his eye on the bottom line, and Quinn, a nubile Christian girl who wants to spread her faith on the Dark Continent. Confined to a remote UN base where humanitarian aid is distributed, they quickly submit themselves to the "reality" of their new home: The weather sucks, every man has his price, and the people who are your friends today could be locking a missile on you tomorrow. As the book progresses, we start to wonder about the mental health of these would-be protagonists: sporadic flashbacks reveal them as people who are all either running from someone or looking for something, and we can only shake our heads in dismay as they realize the situations they find themselves in are far worse then the ones they left behind. As mentioned by several reviewers, dialogue is the Achilles heel of Caputo's game; it too often comes across as stilted, hackneyed, and melodramatic, especially the locker room talk of Wesley and the scenes with the African "big man" Adid. But man, the detail! Caputo clearly did his homework on the Sudan: he writes it as a land of sun and sand and snakes, a hard country that produces hard people. I also like how the ending avoids traditional feel-good cop-outs: The people with the most to lose, lose, the "bad guys" get away scot-free, and nobody comes to rescue Quinn when her heaven slowly descends into hell. In the end Caputo raises far more questions then he answers, which is the mark of either a very good author or a very bad one. Maybe if Douglas sported horns and scales we would be more inclined to vilify him? Is that the point? Despite the leisurely pace and frequent slow spots, I feel Acts of Faith was worth my time.

Didn't Expect To But Loved It
I am cleaning out my bookshelf and came across this novel.I don't know why I bought it when I did as it doesn't generally fit into my preferred genres.However, I ended up loving it.It was very engrossing, an epic story about a place completely foreign.I can't remember if it was difficult to get into but I know I finished it and so it couldn't have been that hard.It is a great midweight vacation read.

The best novel I've read in years
"Do you suppose war to be here what wars are elsewhere?"... "Do you suppose that it is an event, with a discrete beginning that will proceed to a discrete middle und so weiter on to a discrete end? No! It is a condition of life, like drought. There is war in Sudan because there is war."

"Like Vietnam?" Douglas murmured. "We're here because we're here because we're here."

Manfred's gaze passed from the American's face to his boots, then back up again. "I have no idea what you are talking about."

___

Acts of Faith is an odyssey in a way that meets the origin of the word: a story of how the lives of individuals are changed through the fantastic, horrific environments of war, and how this novel's characters in particular emerge out the other side almost completely unrecognizable from how, and as whom, they began.

The author reinforces at every point that measuring the story of Africa - and in particular Sudan - upon the American scale of good and evil is a disservice to the people and the bargains they have arranged with this continent that seems also to be a god. It may in fact be a kind of irreligious sin to view Sudan as measurable in any sense of logic: Nothing goes unpunished. Tolls are extracted everywhere.

There are beautiful passages that you want to commit to memory (in particular the pages that describe the cultural characteristics of Americans) and other scenes when the cruelties of the natural and manmade worlds seem inseparable, if they're not, in fact, the very same thing.

Acts of Faith is an amazing novel with unforgettable characters. I wasn't sure I'd be able to get through it, but I'm glad I did. ... Read more