William H. Willimon Boeken

Addressing those who feel self-sufficient and fulfilled, Bishop William Willimon explores the relevance of the Gospel for individuals who believe they have no need for faith. He argues that the church's message should encompass everyone, including the strong and joyful, not just the downtrodden. Through nine insightful chapters, Willimon challenges the notion that happiness precludes spiritual need, inviting readers to reconsider the role of faith in their lives, regardless of their current emotional or spiritual state.

Focusing on the purpose of Acts, William Willimon offers a fresh interpretation that emphasizes the preservation of the church's integrity amid classical culture rather than seeking acceptance from the Roman state. By integrating contemporary Lukan scholarship with pastoral and theological insights, he addresses the educational needs of the local church, providing a unique perspective on the text's significance and its implications for modern faith communities.

Exploring the interplay between preaching and leadership, William H. Willimon argues that these two pastoral tasks enhance and inform each other. He emphasizes that effective Christian preaching not only enriches congregational leadership but also sets a standard for it. Through this perspective, the book illustrates how the skills and intentions behind preaching can significantly bolster the effectiveness of church leadership, highlighting their interconnectedness in fostering a vibrant faith community.

Exploring the transformative power of Scripture, this book delves into how biblical messages shape and reform congregations. William Willimon examines the challenges and responsibilities that come with engaging with the Bible, highlighting both the ways it can inspire and the tendencies individuals may have to evade its influence. Through thoughtful insights, it encourages readers to confront their relationship with the biblical text and its implications for community and faith.

Hope and help for pastors and congregations who are asking, What now? And What's next? Some pastors and congregations have managed remarkable innovation, creation of new ministries, courageous pruning of old programs, and rediscovery of core Wesleyan convictions in recent years. Others have experienced a long, slow-motion, downward cycle of loss. We might be tempted to 'sit down' wherever we are, looking back at all that's happened, shaking our heads in disbelief. But it's time to stand up, to move forward. Will Willimon shows what that could look like. He spent a year committed to asking questions and careful listening in conversations with clergy, organizational leaders, and parishioners across the U.S. What's next for Methodist church folk? As you read, join in the process of asking and listening. The honesty, wisdom, and inspiration you find here may point you in new directions. What do you think God is up to in the present moment? What should we stop doing and begin doing, responding to God's call now? What are the biblical texts, stories from our past, and core Wesleyan convictions that might guide us from this point? And are we at Good Friday or at Easter? As Willimon writes in his Introduction, "Let's have a decent burial for yesterday's good intentions and then partner with the Holy Spirit in creating tomorrow's church." This is a book to read and reflect on with colleagues, congregants, and Methodist friends.

This brief introduction spells out the major beliefs of the United Methodist Church in a clear, nontechnical style. William Willimon, the beloved United Methodist author, preacher, teacher, and bishop, discusses the great theological themes that United Methodists share in common with all Christians as well as the particular accents and emphases that characterize United Methodist understandings of Christian doctrines. In his engaging style, Willimon opens the door for further study, challenging the reader to move toward a continuing reflection on their faith. This guide will be of great value to those who are beginning their study of United Methodist beliefs as well as those who have long been in the church and want a helpful way to refresh their understandings of the distinctiveness of United Methodist doctrine.

In seven chapters, Willimon examines United Methodism and the ways it has made and continues to make a difference in his life. In an inspiring and enlightening way, he writes of his pride in being part of a church that has grown from one man's experience to a worldwide movement covering the globe with its message. A learning guide for groups and individuals is included.Chapter Because Religion Is of the Heart Because the Bible Is Our Book Because Religion Is Practical Because Christians Are to Witness Because Christians Are to Grow Because Religion Is Not a Private Affair

Hauerwas und Willimon zeigen, wie porös das Hantieren mit christlichen Machtfantasien von jeher war, und setzen die christliche Gemeinde auf die Fährte des Nazareners: Im Zeichen der «Ohn-Macht» und gleichzeitig im Zeichen der Versöhnung liegt die Sprengkraft der christlichen Gemeinde, um die Welt zu verändern.