Customer Reviews (5)

nice little book answers alot of Methodist questions
Good to have around for the curious to pick up, find some quesions and answers and ponder.Might even help out in new member classes and for the young Methodists around us.

Good, concise, introductory resource
I picked this book as the basis of a five-week small group study class I led at my Church, the class titled, "Are You Smarter than a 5th-Grade Methodist?"The book was a useful resource.Its brevity is both an attribute and a weakness.Being so concise, it flirts with superficiality.In his effort to strike a peppy jocular tone, author Joyner at times comes off as silly and forced.One could do worse, though, and it is a good introduction on the Methodist Church.

Sunday School Class material
Our UMC Sunday School class purchased copies of this book and are in the process of using it for the basis of our weekly discussions. Class members and teacher are enjoying the study.

Answers to Questions Very Interesting
United Methodist Questions, United Methodist Answers
Very rewarding as I reviewed the questions, then read Bible references, and Answers made clearer. You may skip around and go where your interest leads you.

Joyner hits a "homerun" again!
Joyner hits a homerun again with this Question and Answer style book from a United Methodist perspective.This is a well-balanced, thoughtful, yet very practical exposition of United Methodist beliefs and practices.I have given several of these to churches and individuals who need to be reminded of our United Methodist roots and ethos.A great study book or a primer for Pastor/Parish Relations Committees and church boards.

Gary E. Holdeman, District Superintendent
Enid District, Oklahoma Conference,
The United Methodist Church ... Read more

Product Description

An indispensable guide for all United Methodists-especially pastors, lay leaders, church council members, confirmation and new member candidates and their instructors, and seminarians-this book is presented in a practical, down-to-earth manner for easy use by both individuals and classes, clergy and lay. It highlights the functions and connectional relationships within the organization, beginning with the local church and continuing through connectional organs in districts, annual conferences and their agencies, jurisdictional conferences and their agencies, the General Conference, the general agencies of the Church, and the Judicial Council.

Bishop Tuell discusses the Church's unique polity and gives a frank assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. At the same time he paints the image of a worldwide connectional communion that is organized to spread the good news of Jesus Christ and to bear witness to its Wesleyan heritage.

Customer Reviews (1)

Valid resource - BAD price
This book is essential for United Methodist pastors and staff and worthwhile for anyone who is interested in the liturgy and worship practices of the United Methodist church.This price, however, is extremely high.I'm confused as to why this USED book is selling for $70 when it can be purchased NEW directly from the publisher (www.cokesbury.com) for a mere $27. ... Read more

Product Description

The Book of Discipline sets forth the plan by which we United Methodists govern ourselves. It reflects our understanding of the Church and of what is expected of its laity and clergy as they seek to be effective witnesses in the world as a part of the whole body of Christ.

The Discipline includes our church Constitution, our history, our doctrinal standards, and our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ, as well as practical processes through which our congregations connect and support each other to reach the world.

Customer Reviews (7)

The Book ofDisciplinew for Methodist Religon
The book I ordered came within a week and in outstanding condition.

Also the book waas well perserved.


Thank Yo
Wayne Eicher
Columbus, GA 31909

From the Publisher
Several customers have expressed concern over the lack of a fully-linked Table of Contents in the original Kindle edition of the Book of Discipline. We have corrected that oversight, and a few other formatting concerns in the revised edition available now. If you purchased a Kindle version of the Book of Discipline prior to mid-February 2010, please request a refund from Amazon and then purchase the eBook again to receive the updated Kindle version.

We appreciate your interest in the Book of Discipline on Kindle.

Myca Alford
Digital Publishing Manager

Great book.. HORRIBLE Kindle edition
Do not waste your money on this Kindle edition. If you are a Methodist or anyone else who wants to learn more about our faith, you will definitely want to own a copy of the Book of Discipline.However, for a book that is often used as a reference tool (rather than reading it from start to finish), this POORLY designed Kindle edition lacks any sort of navigational aids such as a linked table of contents or index, making it an essentially useless download. Just get the hard copy for now, at least until someone comes out with an electronic edition that is actually USABLE.

2008 United Methodist Book of Discipline
This book was in perfect shape and came in a very short period of time.I was pleased with the personal attention to the customer as the seller inserted a thank you letter, with contact information.

A must have for Christians
This is the most amazing Christian religious doctrinal book that I've ever read. The interpretations on our place in and among society are more wise than anything written since the Bible, in my opinion.

Would that we as a denomination followed this book completely! Still, it's the ultimate in answering the question "what does my faith stand for." That is, if you're a member of the United Methodist Church.
... Read more

Product Description
"Commissioned by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for use in United Methodist doctrine/polity/history courses."   This in-depth analysis of the connection between United Methodist polity and theology addresses ways in which historical developments have shaped--and continue to shape--the organization of the church.
This revised edition incorporates the actions of The United Methodist General Conference, 2004. The book discusses continuing reforms of the church's plan for baptism and church membership, as well as the emergence of deacon's orders and other changes to ordained ministry procedures. The text is now cross-referenced to the Book of Discipline, 2004, including the revised order of disciplinary chapters and paragraph numbering. Denominational statistics are updated, along with references to recent works on The United Methodist Church and American religious life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great companion to the UMC Discipline
Extremely useful resource for pastors, seminarians.Also for lay leaders mystified by the church's polity and practices.

Primer for the UMC Book of Discipline
This book was helpful while trudging through the UMC Book of Discipline 2000. (The 2004 is now available.)It helped to spot problems, provided some history, and pointed to possible future difficulties.If you must read and understand the UMC Book of Discipline, this book can be a simple way to start.

Its usefulness is limited to UMC clergy and lay leaders.If you need to learn your way around the heirarchy and the bureaucracy, this is a place to start.Another book to consider is "The Organization of the United Methodist Church" by Jack Tuell. ... Read more

Product Description
An ideal study resource for helping adults understand more fully the meaning, theology and practice of the sacraments in The United Methodist Church. ... Read more

Product Description
Includes for each hymn in the Hymnal historical background of text and tune; suggested uses for today;name origin;text/tune changes over the years; commentary on Hymnal treatment; and theological base of texts. ... Read more

Product Description

Following Jesus is hard to do – but even harder if we take ourselves too seriously. The Unofficial United Methodist Handbook is the indispensable companion for anyone trying to live a committed Christian life, with a healthy dose of humor. Timeless biblical truths stand alongside everyday life situations that everyone meets, with step-by-step instructions that make the going easy:

• How to Stay Alert in Church
• How to Identify an Angel (with diagram)
• How to Survive for One Hour in an Un-Air-Conditioned Church
• How to Share Your Faith with Someone
• How to Identify and Avoid Evil
• How to Survive an Old Testament Plague
• How to Memorize a Bible Verse
• Common Christian Symbols and What They Mean
• What Is Unique about The United Methodist Church and Its History

…plus dozens of other illustrations, maps, diagrams, and essential tips!

Customer Reviews (2)

Ho-hum Humor to be left on the shelf
If you read the review of this book in the UM Reporter, you were mislead.Not worth the purchase price. A ho-hum view of United Methodist insiders.We are a lot funnier than this!

Do It Yourself Methodism
This is an excellent opportunity to learn the basics about the United Methodist Church.If you have ever felt that you would be embarrassed by participating in the church because you did not know its traditions, this book is for you. ... Read more

Product Description
The Discipline is the book of law of The United Methodist Church. It is the product of 200 years of the General Conferences of the denominations that now form The United Methodist Church. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Reference book
I needed this reference book to review the legality of a transaction that was taken in 1997. I had requested, but, had not received answers. Thankfully, I was able to find the book through Amazon at an affordable price. My questions were answered. Customer service was excellent. Thanks. ... Read more

Product Description
Throughout this book, Scott J. Jones insists that for United Methodists the ultimate goal of doctrine is holiness. Importantly, he clarifies the nature and the specific claims of "official" United Methodist doctrine in a way that moves beyond the current tendency to assume the only alternatives are a rigid dogmatism or an unfettered theological pluralism. In classic Wesleyan form, Jones' driving concern is with recovering the vital role of forming believers in the "mind of Christ, " so that they might live more faithfully in their many settings in our world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great for anyone wanting a firmer grasp of UM Doctrine
This book is both comprehensive and concise in explaining United Methodist doctrinal issues.While we did not use it in my Wesleyan theology courses in seminary, I think it would have made a useful addition and I found myself referring to it as I drafted papers for Commissioning as a minister.Yet, I think it is an easy enough read for a layperson who already has some background in UM theology and doctrine. It certainly isn't a "quick reference" but I expect that it would be highly useful for people wanting to go beyond simple excerpts and "soundbite" theology. In sum, it is quite accessible yet with enough depth that even a seminarian or pastor would find it useful.

Extreme
As a lay person I found this book to be an extremely thorough explanation of UMC Doctrine.Now, that may not sound too exciting and the book can be a difficult read at times.However, for anyone seeking an explanation of the postion of the Methodist Church on specific and general issues, this book will make an excellent reference. Dr. Jones has performed the research and has the authority to speak for the church on this topic and does so effectively in this work. ... Read more

Product Description

Revised and updated, this popular book shows pastors and worship leaders the basics of United Methodist worship.

In this straightforward and updated commentary, Hoyt Hickman explains the basic pattern of United Methodist worship within the broader context of Christian worship. Drawing upon five basic principles, the author explains the formative nature of worship and how it can revitalize persons' lives. These principles are: God's Word is primary; active congregational participation is crucial; spontaneity and order are both important; worship should be relevant and inclusive; and worship is communion. This revision will highlight the African-American contribution to UM worship, discuss at greater length what the various worship styles mean for us today, say more about the formative nature of worship, and include updated resources including the Abingdon Worship Annual, the Abingdon Preaching Annual, and WorshipConnection.

• Explains basic resources for planning and leading worship.
• Gives the basic pattern of UM worship and its origins.
• Gives practical suggestions how to renew and revitalize worship.
• Helps pastors be effective leaders in planning and revitalizing worship.
• Helps pastors understand and communicate the uniqueness of UM worship.
• Helps pastors lead their congregation into a deeper and richer experience of God through worship.

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Read for those interested in congregational worshilp
Hickman has done an outstanding job of presenting theconcept of Christian worship, the patterns of worship, the heritage of the Methodist Church and the phases of worship.Written for the minister and the lay person, I find that it is easily understood by the lay person and can be used as a study book for groups of lay people.

The work is well founded scholastically honest and deep, but written so that the lay person can understand and enjoy the concepts of Christian worship in congregations.

A must read for interested lay persons.

J. Robert Ewbank, author of "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the 'Isms'" ... Read more

Product Description
Written in a humorous, accessible style, Being United Methodist in the Bible Belt will help any United Methodist youth or adult understand his or her brand of Christianity in light of the understandings of those from the evangelical tradition. With sidebars explaining United Methodist history and polity and questions after each chapter, this book is ideal for Christian education courses for youth and adults, new member classes, as well as personal reading. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Entertaining and Informative
This is a good book for those who want an overview of the Methodist church, its history and its teachings.It is set up in a textbook format for use with youth groups but adults can learn from it as well.It's short enough to finish in a night or two and light and humorous enough for the subject matter to stick with you.It has real world examples making the subject more interesting.

A great intro. to being a Methodist
Regardless of where you may live - this was an easy, informative, and humorous introduction to UMC dogma.I read it in a couple of nights - passed it on to my husband who read it just about straight through, too.I highly recommend this to anyone thinking of becoming Methodist or already is one.

Very Informative
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who is interested on the befiefs and history of the United Methodist Church.The author infuses humor throughout this book to keep it interesting and I found this book to be an easy read for the most part (there are some areas where even humor couldn't lighten it up enough).Overall, very worthwhile. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Look Before You Leap
This is a great little book for those thinking about joining the Methodists or for those new to the faith.It was extremely helpful to me in my quest for understanding the basic tenets of the Methodist faith.After being a Baptist for most of my life, I wanted to be sure that the Methodist faith was comparable to my lifelong beliefs.This book provided that information without a great deal of technical jargon as is found in some books regarding Christianity.It was an easy read without the feel of a "textbook."

United Methodist Beliefs
I found this book to be very informative.I am a basic Lay Speaker in the United Methodist Church.I used this book recently to help me write a sermon. ... Read more

Product Description
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 titles:

Customer Reviews (8)

United Methodist Hymnal
I thought I had already reviewed this item. I have enjoyed it since received it.

Personal copy comes quickly
Rather than taking a copy of the Church hymnal home for my own use, I decided to buy a copy. The order was quick and the quality was fresh and new. I am very pleased with the service.

A Most Excellent Hymnal
This is easily one of the best hymnals that I own.It has a few attributes that make it such a solid book:

1) It is extremely comprehensive, containing the "old standards" (such as "Praise to the Lord"), newer hymns and songs (like "Let There Be Peace on Earth"), ecumenical hymns, and even Taize chants (such as "Eat This Bread" and, I believe, "Jesus, Remember Me")!
2) The service outlines in the front are unparalleled.They go into incredible detail about the elements of the service, going so far as to including multiple service music selections.
3) The layout is aesthetically pleasing.It's very hard to pinpoint exactly why the pages are so nice to look at, but the layout and print really come together.

If you are a musician or parishoner of any denomination, this book is a must.

Best Hymnal / Prayerbook out
This hymnal contains roughly 679 hymns proper, organized theologically rather then by season (there is a section called "Particular Times of Worship" for seasonal hymns and carols).They include old favorites like "O, For A Thousand Tongues To Sing", and newer songs like "Come Sunday",and translations of patristic and medieval hymns. Collects, canticles, and bits of sacred poetry are scattered throughout the hymnal alongside hymns expressing similar sentiments- the Psalter contains only the Psalms.

In addition, the Hymmnal contains the United Methodist liturgies for the usual morning service, Baptism, Communion(with musical settings), marriages, and funerals. There are also orders for weekday Morning and Evening Prayer and Praise, which is as far as I know unprecedented in Methodism.

One slight deficiency- the UM Hymnal contains no church calendar or lectionary at all. This is unfortunate, especially as the Hymnal is otherwise so complete.

A lot of thought went into this
This is one of the best hymnals available, if you can get past the inclusive language. Its wide range of selections and worship resources will appeal to all Christians. ... Read more

Product Description
This reference tool includes over 90 indexes to The United Methodist Hymnal and The Faith We Sing. The indexes range from non-English hymns, to women composers, to contemporary songs, to hymns from classical compositions. ... Read more

Product Description
Explore a basic explanation of the beliefs and practices of The United Methodist Church as defined in Part
II of The Book of Discipline. Uncover a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you
embrace the United Methodist way. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

What to know about United Methodism
I have read many books of this type, but this is the number one choice for me. The information is well presented, beautifully written,and succinct. I highly recommend it to any Christian, United Methodist or not. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

United Methodist Hymnal
This book was in great condition, Thanks. I love all the variety in this hymnal.

Very Pleased
This Hymnal was exactly what I was looking for and at a very good price.
I received it very quickly.The music is the Authenic Methodist Music.Easy to play and sing.They only thing I wish is it had the chords too. ... Read more

Product Description
This book offers a renewed vision and practical steps for United Methodists to work together in mission and ministry. These bishops of The United Methodist Church urge congregations to stand together, under God’s grace, to lead others to vibrant faith, steadfast hope, and joyful living. The authors call for a new partnership with God to bring God’s reign to fruition for all God’s people. With concrete guidance about how to create and transform disciples, readers are invited to travel the path that leads to the abundant living that Jesus talked about. This book will also inspire and motivate congregations to work together to be a vibrant presence in their neighborhoods and communities.

The Seven Pathways were created by the United Methodist bishops and presented at the 2008 General Conference as a vision statement for the Church. Contributors include: Bishops Sharon Brown Christopher, Gregory Vaughn Palmer,  G. Lindsey Davis, Robert Schnase, Scott J. Jones, Hee-Soo Jung, E. James Swanson Sr., Minerva G. Carcano, Thomas J. Bickerton, and Bruce R. Ough.  

The seven pathways are: Planting New Congregations, Transforming Existing Congregations,  Teaching the United Methodist Way, Strengthing Clergy and Lay Leadership, Children and Poverty, Expanding Racial/Ethnic Ministries, and Eliminating Poverty by Stamping out Disease. ... Read more