Each year in the United States, roughly two million people die, leaving behind them many grieving hearts in need of perspective and comfort. Many are husbands or wives who reach for a missing partner on the other side of the bed. Others are children, young and old, who suddenly realize that their parents are gone, leaving the world a strange and lonely place. Some are parents whose plans and dreams fade as they watch a child pass away. Dr. Barber addresses the pain of losing a parent and its effect on children of different ages - toddlers, young children, older children, and teens. He also offers practical advice for widows and widowers, for those who re-marry, and for those who blend children of both surviving parents into one new family. For anyone who mourns the loss of a loved one, 'Through the Valley of Tears' is a valuable source of comfort and advice.
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). In his remarkably perceptive book entitled The Life and Times of the Patriarchs, William H. Thomson, MD, LLD (son of William M. Thomson, author of The Land and the Book) draws our attention to the fact that the story of the life of Jacob and of his family occupies more than half of the book of Genesis. He continued, This is no more than it should, considering how full that story is of instruction. Thus Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are repeatedly named together, but Jacob differed more from his father and grandfather than men usually differ from each other. Every human being grows up in an environment which inevitably reacts upon his personality. So true is this that the experience of each life has its own lesson. In Jacob's case we see how one experience after another was needed for Jacob to become the prevailing Prince with God. Isaac's unreasoning partiality toward Esau was no justification for the wicked imposition practiced on him by his wife, whereby Jacob secured the birthright. This resulted in Jacob being sent to his mother's brother in order to escape the wrath of Esau. But instead of departing on his long journey laden with gifts, his going had to be in secret. He returned many years later to face new challenges, and one by one God took pains to remove from his life the things that were impediments to his spiritual growth. How the Lord did this is the subject of this book. O how happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. O how happy are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart (Psalm 119:1-2).
How I wish this book had been available years ago when I as a young minister tried to preach on the life of King Saul. Dr. Cyril Barber has given us a commentary on 1 Samuel that balances dependable information, spiritual interpretation, and practical application. I predict that in years to come this volume will be a standard reference work for serious Bible students and careful expository preachers. But there is no dull academic atmosphere in these pages. The book is a joy to read. Dr. Barber makes ancient history exciting and practical, and he does so without spiritualizing the text. You will enjoy using this book. It will open up new facets of truth for you to receive and apply in your own life and then share with others. From the Foreword, by Warren W. Wiersbe
The book of Judges deals with a people who lost their freedom--not all at once, but gradually. The Israelites were content to let the neighboring inhabitants of Canaan rule over them. Judges clearly describes the reasons for this spiritual, moral, and national decline. It began with compromise. The people's commitment to God's revealed will steadily decreased until it was no longer sufficient for the crises that arose. It was at this time that God placed tremendous responsibility in the hands of a chosen few. Judges, more than any other book of the Bible, illustrates the way the power of God is available to ordinary people to accomplish His purposes. These men and women learned through their experiences that to "those who have no might, he increases power" (Isaiah 40:29). This should inspire us with confidence, particularly as we read this book in light of the apostle Paul's words: "Not that we are competent in ourselves to reckon anything as from ourselves, but our competency is of God . . . in order that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us" (2 Corinthians 3:5; 4:7).
In a recent essay The Unmarked Way Harvard scholar Oscar Handlin wrote: At some point, midway into the 20th century, Europeans and Americans discovered that they had lost all sense of direction. Formerly familiar markers along the way had guided their personal and social lives from birth to maturity to death. Now, disoriented, they no longer trust the guideposts and grope in bewilderment toward an unimagined destination.... Dr. Handlin's observation confirms the fact that history has repeated itself. One of the guideposts that could lead us through the maze of confusing theories is the Book of Kings. Without the light of history shining over our shoulders we lose our sense of direction. The admonition of the prophet Jeremiah points us back to the lighted path: He counseled the people of his day to Ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. Now, more so than ever before, we need the teaching of 1 and 2 Kings, and that after all is the purpose of these studies. Read them and see.
Will God's Leadership Principles Work for Me Today? What is God's pattern for success? How can I develop my full potential? How can I motivate others? How do I set goals for myself and others? God has given believers in positions of leadership the answers to these and other vital questions. Through the example of one of history's greatest leaders, Nehemiah, God has given us principles of leadership which work as effectively in today's dynamic business world as they did centuries ago. Cyril Barber brings out these biblical principles in a clear and effective way, and he applies them to our contemporary world. By examining the challenges that Nehemiah faced, and looking at how he overcame them, the author shows how you can deal with the situations you face every day. This newly revised and expanded edition includes study questions which will help you apply the principles as you learn them. This is not another management book. It is a biblical leadership training course. The principles taught are essential for all in administrative positions: businesspeople, foremen, managers, supervisors, teachers, church leaders, and even parents.
Cyril Barber is convinced that the books of Samuel were written not to display the horror of David's sins of murder and adultery, but rather to demonstrate God's faithfulness in raising up prophets, priests, and kings to move history toward the coming of Christ. The central focus of this commentary is to show that the sovereign God weaves His own historical patterns alongside human failure and sin. Some people will read this volume for the exegetical light it sheds on 2 Samuel. Others will seek personal applications and find help in the great lessons that can be learned from the mistakes and successes of the past. All who read it will derive a new appreciation for the work of God in human history. I should warn you that this commentary challenges familiar interpretations and looks at the events of 2 Samuel through a different set of glasses. But precisely for this reason I wish it a wide distribution. From the Foreword, by Erwin W. Lutzer
The apostle Paul admonished the believers in Rome to diligently study what was written in earlier (i.e., Old Testament) times because what was written was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope (Romans 15:4). No where is this truth more evident that in the books of Kings. Some trod the path of righteousness, others did not. To turn people into the way of peace and blessing the Lord sent His servants the prophets to warn individuals and the nation of Israel of the consequences of their actions. Some of these prophets, like Elijah and Elisha are well known, others are given a place in the inspired record even though little is known of them. This is a plain, highly readable, study that pastors, college students, seminarians, and lay people will find helpful. Throughout this commentary Dr. Barber, like the householder whom the Lord Jesus described in Matthew 13:52 brings out of his treasure things old and new.
There is nothing but God's grace. We walk upon it; we breathe it; we live and die by it; it makes the nails and axles of the universe," concluded Robert Louis Stevenson. In 'Ruth: A Story of God's Grace,' Cyril J. Barber trumpets God's grace. Grace leads Elimelech to Moab, brings Naomi back to Bethlehem, guides Ruth to Boaz's field, and directs Boaz to Ruth. "Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace" encircles the Book of Ruth. From the gracious acts of God Ruth's time, the author draws lessons for twentieth-century believers. He fathoms the importance of decision-making, the purpose of suffering, and the power of love. But the author does more than expound truths; he helps the reader understand the Bible text by explaining customs and word meanings. He also intersperses his own translation of Ruth throughout his commentary. Writing for the Bible student rather than the Bible scholar, Barber summarizes the Book of Ruth in a concise introduction, places all technical discussions and notes at the back, and provides two helpful indexes.
The apostle wrote: Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4) Dr. Ray Stedman, in his book Man of Faith wrote, There is a simple secret that ties together the Old and the New Testaments and makes the study of the Old Testament a never-ending delight. The Old Testament is designed as a picture book, illustrating with fascinating stories the spiritual truths presented in the New Testament. This is especially true of the book of Moses and the book of Joshua; for in the life histories of men like Abraham . . . we have symbolized for us the progress of spiritual growth. Abraham is set forth in Scripture as the father of the faithful and the friend of God. His spiritual experience is presented in four far-reaching crises in which he was tested and matured. These are his responses to God's call to leave his country and relatives; his separation from his nephew Lot, leaving him completely isolated from all kindred in a land in which he was a stranger; his response to God's rejection of Ishmael and trust in His promise that Sarah would one day bear him a son; and his willingness to offer up Isaac, believing that he would be resurrected. Isaac was the child of promise, and though little is told of his long life, he remained faithful to the Lord in spite of many difficulties, and illustrates for us how a man can triumph over physical ailments and family discord. Of these Old Testament characters Paul wrote, Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come (1 Corinthians 10:11).
Each year in the United States, roughly two million people die, leaving behind them many grieving hearts in need of perspective and comfort. Many are husbands or wives who reach for a missing partner on the other side of the bed. Others are children, young and old, who suddenly realize that their parents are gone, leaving the world a strange and lonely place. Some are parents whose plans and dreams fade as they watch a child pass away. Dr. Barber addresses the pain of losing a parent and its effect on children of different ages - toddlers, young children, older children, and teens. He also offers practical advice for widows and widowers, for those who re-marry, and for those who blend children of both surviving parents into one new family. For anyone who mourns the loss of a loved one, 'Through the Valley of Tears' is a valuable source of comfort and advice.
An indispensable guide for undergraduate, graduate, or seminary students, this book provides valuable insight into the best reference tools available for Bible research. Not only do the authors provide general information on atlases, concordances, lexicons, dictionaries, and the like, but they also evaluate their usefulness. Titles reviewed range from theologically conservative to theologically liberal in their orientation. Electronic databases are included within the scope of the book's coverage. A highly useful resource, the book will certainly find a permanent place on the desk of anyone involved with Bible research.
For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as with a shield." In Joseph we recognize the elements of a noble character, piety, pure and high morality, simplicity, gentleness, fidelity, patience, perseverance, an iron will, and indomitable energy. He was also a man of enduring faithfulness in the midst of hardship and strong opposition. After being released from slavery he proved himself to be a wise administrator, a loving and forgiving brother, and a devoted son. Above all, in adversity, he showed himself to be a man of God with a steadfast dependence upon the Lord and a faith in the covenant that the Lord had made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Though separated from his family, Joseph remained steadfast in his loyalty to his God. How difficult were these days as a slave and prisoner in jail can perhaps be gauged by Amos' statement when he wrote of the "affliction of Joseph." Later, however, when he was raised to the second highest position in Egypt we learn something of the blessings with which God rewarded Joseph for his righteousness. The Lord blessed him, and Joseph's life continues to supply hope and encouragement to sorely tried believers down through the ages. Joseph's own summary of the vicissitudes that his brothers thrust upon him when they sold him into slavery is found in his well known statement, "You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good.
Contemporary writers who have chosen to comment on the lives of people mentioned in the Bible invariably fall into one of two groups: the first provide us with pen portraits that paint the individual(s) without a single failing; the second appear to be so intent on portraying the weakness(es) of those whom they write that there is little or nothing for us to emulate. This work attempts to be different. By paying attention to the literary nuances in the original text, as well as the history, geography and social milieu of the different people, an attempt has been made to provide an accurate description of each person and his/her work. Next to our Lord Jesus Christ there is no one in the New Testament who can be compared with the Apostle Paul. Around the life of the Lord Jesus there clustered, on the one hand, His disciples, and on the other, His malignant adversaries. Similarly, around the life of Paul we read of his loyal friends as well as his relentless enemies. Paul's friends and foes, who are mentioned in the book of Acts, are treated in this book. When Paul was nearing the end of his earthly pilgrimage, he was languishing in the Mamertine Prison in Rome. It was then and still is a cold, comfortless dungeon. Paul wrote to Timothy and urged him to come to him before winter and bring with him certain of his possessions, including a cloak, that he had left in Troas. Paul, of course, had many friends, but Timothy was closest to Troas. Who were his friends, and what did they do? They are representatives of the multitude of people who, often unhonored and unsung, are worthy of our attention, for in many respects they are like us. It is the hope of the author that reading about these men and women will encourage a fresh study of the book of Acts.
With the publication of this volume Cyril Barber brings to a close thirty years of study and research on the books of Joshua through Esther. His treatment of each of these canonical writings is devotional and was written during his busy pastoral and teaching ministry. The Book of Ezra. Jewish tradition has made Ezra one of the most celebrated personages in all the history of his people. Five great works are attributed to him: (1) The founding of the "Great Synagogue," or synod of learned Jewish scholars; (2) the settlement of the sacred "canon," or recognized list of authoritative Hebrew Scriptures; (3) the establishment of the Hebrew Scriptures in square Assyrian characters; (4) the compilation of the Chronicles, along with the book that now bears his own name, and possibly Psalm 119; and (5) the institution of local synagogues. The Book of Ezra has been looked upon as Israel's "second exodus," for under the leadership of Zerubbabel a large number of Jewish expatriates journeyed from Babylon to Jerusalem, and in spite of many difficulties rebuilt the Temple. Years passed before Ezra led a second group of exiles to Jerusalem. He based all he did on the Word of God, and in his example we have encouragement for a life of godliness in the midst of the present moral and spiritual decline. The Book of Esther. The title of this book is based on its main character, Queen Esther. It fits into the gap between Ezra 6 and 7, and records the events in Babylon prior to and immediately following Xerxes' (Ahasuerus's) attack on Greece. Though there is no mention of God in the book, he is nonetheless active. According to Drs. M'Clintock and Strong, "The character of Esther, as she appears in the Bible, is that of a woman of deep piety, faith, courage, patriotism, and caution, combined with resolution; a dutiful daughter to her adopted father . . . and anxious to share the king's favor with him for the good of her people. She was a virtuous woman, and as far as her situation made it possible, a good wife to the king.
Great are the works of the Lord; They are studied by all who delight in them" (Psalm 111:2, NASB). When treating the life of Moses the psalmist wrote: "The Lord remembered His promise given to his servant Abraham, and brought His people out of Egypt with rejoicing, His chosen ones with shouts of joy. He also gave them the lands of the nations, that they might take possession of the fruit of other people's labor ..." (Psalm 105:42-44) The story of the Exodus is an intriguing one. Moses first attempted to help his people without God's call, expecting success as a result of his own ability. In the end he never undertook anything without God's guidance, and it is no wonder that He is linked with Samuel as an example of the power of intercessory prayer (Jeremiah 15:1). As to Moses' character, the only strong personal trait which we are able to glean from the biblical text comes from Numbers 12:3, where the word "meek" should be rendered "much enduring, or strength under control," for he persevered through extremely difficult, trying circumstances. It is no wonder, therefore, that after performing the task the Lord had given him, he became known as a man of enduring faith (cf. Hebrews 11:24-29).
Contemporary writers who have chosen to comment on the lives of people mentioned in the Bible invariably fall into one of two groups: the first provide us with pen portraits that paint the individual(s) without a single failing; the second appear to be so intent on portraying the weakness(es) of those whom they write that there is little or nothing for us to emulate. This work attempts to be different. By paying attention to the literary nuances in the original text, as well as the history, geography and social milieu of the different people, an attempt has been made to provide an accurate description of each person and his/her work. Next to our Lord Jesus Christ there is no one in the New Testament who can be compared with the Apostle Paul. Around the life of the Lord Jesus there clustered, on the one hand, His disciples, and on the other, His malignant adversaries. Similarly, around the life of Paul we read of his loyal friends as well as his relentless enemies. Paul's friends and foes, who are mentioned in the book of Acts, are treated in this book. When Paul was nearing the end of his earthly pilgrimage, he was languishing in the Mamertine Prison in Rome. It was then and still is a cold, comfortless dungeon. Paul wrote to Timothy and urged him to come to him before winter and bring with him certain of his possessions, including a cloak, that he had left in Troas. Paul, of course, had many friends, but Timothy was closest to Troas. Who were his friends, and what did they do? They are representatives of the multitude of people who, often unhonored and unsung, are worthy of our attention, for in many respects they are like us. It is the hope of the author that reading about these men and women will encourage a fresh study of the book of Acts.
Will God's Leadership Principles Work for Me Today? What is God's pattern for success? How can I develop my full potential? How can I motivate others? How do I set goals for myself and others? God has given believers in positions of leadership the answers to these and other vital questions. Through the example of one of history's greatest leaders, Nehemiah, God has given us principles of leadership which work as effectively in today's dynamic business world as they did centuries ago. Cyril Barber brings out these biblical principles in a clear and effective way, and he applies them to our contemporary world. By examining the challenges that Nehemiah faced, and looking at how he overcame them, the author shows how you can deal with the situations you face every day. This newly revised and expanded edition includes study questions which will help you apply the principles as you learn them. This is not another management book. It is a biblical leadership training course. The principles taught are essential for all in administrative positions: businesspeople, foremen, managers, supervisors, teachers, church leaders, and even parents.
In 'Unlocking the Scriptures', Cyril Barber walks us through a specific text (Abraham and Sarah) of the Bible, showing us how to discover its riches, writes Warren Wiersbe, well-known author and conference speaker. He goes on to say, You're not just holding a book in your hand, you're holding a key that can open the doors of Scripture and make exciting discoveries. Dr. Barber has earned these glowing words with a lifetime of intense Bible study and ministry. His academic endeavors under Dr. Howard G. Hendricks of the Dallas Theological Seminary prepared him early on to study and to teach others how to study for the most benefit. He knows well the patience and diligence required to get the most out of studying the Bible, as well as the rewards for those who persist. He says, Bible study requires diligence, an easy-to-learn technique and perseverance. In the end, however, one's efforts are handsomely rewarded. In the intervening years, Dr. Barber garnered degrees from American, British and Canadian institutions as well as earning his doctorate from Biola University. He has served on the faculties of Trinity Evangelical School, Rosemead School of Psychology and Simon Greenleaf University; At present he serves as Associate Pastor of Plymouth Church in Whittier, CA, responsible for pastoral care and visitation, counseling and teaching. He is the author of over 30 books and numerous journal articles. Charles C. Ryrie says, The Bible is the greatest of all books; to study it is the noblest of all pursuits; to understand it, the highest of all goals. Whatever time you spend with Unlocking the Scriptures will be time you will treasure -- time well spent.
Drs. Cyril Barber and Gary Strauss have approached the books of Jonah and Nahum in a unique way. As Dr. Howard Hendricks pointed out in his Foreword, they "have brilliantly worked off the model of God the Father to produce a theologically precise and psychologically sound book" that is readable and workable. All children who have attended Sunday School or VBS can tell you the story of Jonah and the whale, and teenagers who have taken a one semester course in ancient history know of the fate that overtook the people living in Nineveh. But what are the abiding lessons of these books for parents, adolescents, and children? Building on an accurate translation of the Hebrew text, and incorporating data from history, archaeology and sociology, the authors have demonstrated how in every age God the Father deals lovingly yet firmly with His children. The result is an explanation of much of the teaching of the New Testament. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter make this book ideal for use in discussion groups.
About the Contributor(s): Dr. Cyril J. Barber is pastor emeritus of Plymouth Church, Whittier, California. He lives with his wife of fifty years in Hacienda Heights, California. They have two sons, two daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren.
Most studies of the Book of Joshua fall into two well-defined categories. On the one hand we have the writings of those devout students of God's Word who build upon typology and explain the events of the book as symbols of subsequent greater events. Their approach is largely allegorical. Other scholars lay stress on the exegetical nuances of the text, the history and geography of the times, discount the miraculous, and provide a naturalistic interpretation of the momentous happenings that took place. They often fail to see the hand of God in the events described by the biblical writer. Dr. Barber's treatment is different. He is conservative in his discussion of the text, and he paints a real-life picture of the vents as they transpired. He is also cognizant of the issues and shows God to be utterly faithful to His covenants. He does not gloss over the failures of Joshua and the Israelites, but finds in them warnings for believers today. Of particular importance is his discussion of the way to achieve day-to-day victory in the Christian life. This is a practical, devotional book designed for use by lay people.
Monograph on the historical emergence and present day industrial growth of large scale industrial enterprises, with particular reference to multinational enterprises based in the USA and the UK - covers industrial structures, etc. Illustrations and references.
Most studies of the Book of Joshua fall into two well-defined categories. On the one hand we have the writings of those devout students of God's Word who build upon typology and explain the events of the book as symbols of subsequent greater events. Their approach is largely allegorical. Other scholars lay stress on the exegetical nuances of the text, the history and geography of the times, discount the miraculous, and provide a naturalistic interpretation of the momentous happenings that took place. They often fail to see the hand of God in the events described by the biblical writer. Dr. Barber's treatment is different. He is conservative in his discussion of the text, and he paints a real-life picture of the vents as they transpired. He is also cognizant of the issues and shows God to be utterly faithful to His covenants. He does not gloss over the failures of Joshua and the Israelites, but finds in them warnings for believers today. Of particular importance is his discussion of the way to achieve day-to-day victory in the Christian life. This is a practical, devotional book designed for use by lay people.
About the Contributor(s): Dr. Cyril J. Barber is pastor emeritus of Plymouth Church, Whittier, California. He lives with his wife of fifty years in Hacienda Heights, California. They have two sons, two daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren.
Viewed against the backdrop of Assyrian supremacy, the Scythian invasion, and independent power struggles preceding the emergence of the neo-Babylonian empire, Habakkuk and Zephaniah are two of the most difficult books in the prophetic canon.Cyril J. Barber explores these two much-neglected portions of Scripture in an effort to explain the purpose of each. He examines first Habakkuk's teachings on injustice and suffering. Then he discusses Zephaniah's emphasis on the kingdom of God, noting God's plan regarding sin, judgment, and the salvation of His people. Detailed outlines and verse-by-verse commentary make this volume helpful to scholars and laymen alike who wish to discover the truths found in the minor prophets and to apply their age-old teachings to life in the twentieth century.
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