4 comments about Jesus' Family Values.

1. Written by Professor of New Testament (The General Theological Seminary, New York City) Deirdre Good, Jesus' Family Values is a rigorously scholarly examination of exactly what "family values" and dimensions of the family were in the days of Jesus Christ and the apostles, and precisely what the New Testament has to say - and what it doesn't say - about such matters. Setting scripture in a firm and well-researched historical context, and meticulously noting the nuances of translation as well as which scriptures are considered apocryphal by which churches other factors influencing their interpretation, Jesus' Family Values makes every effort to analytically answer the questions: What were Jesus Christ's family values, and those of his apostles? What does this mean for modern Christians with abiding faith in both God and the importance of family? Of especial note is the keen observation that today's suburban family household divorced from the workplace perhaps resembles Victorian era households more than those of Jesus' time. A desperately needed antidote to proponents of "family values" who quote or misquote snippets of scripture to support specific narrow views, Jesus' Family Values places the highest value of all on truth - and concerning such thorny and controversial topics such as religion, the best way to reach the truth is to offer as much research, evidence, broad-ranging interpretation, and logical means of analysis as reasonably possible and let the reader come to his or her own informed conclusions, precisely as Deirdre Good has done. Highly recommended.



2. If your intent is to learn what the Bible says about family values, read the Bible and avoid this book. If your intent is to dismiss what the Bible says about morality and family values, read this book. The author (a lesbian) is a professor of New Testament at General Theological Seminary, a seminary of the Episcopal communion. As recent so-called scholarship testifies, you don't really need to believe the Bible is The Word of God to be considered a Biblical scholar. The author is one who believes in reinterpreting scripture to fit her view of morality and denying those she can't easily reinterpret. In her view of life, whatever form your family takes is fine with God. If your family doesn't fit the model set in scripture, paint the scripture as outdated and the particular offending scripture as being added later by an oppressive patriarchal church. This tack is fine as long as you don't then attempt to use other scripture to justify your position. When scripture says something you don't like, either take its position to heart and acknowledge you are mistaken, or form your own religion where everything goes, but for heaven's sake, don't say that your position is found in the Bible.



3. I think it was in high school English grammar that we learned about the sometimes overpowering effect of "glowing generalities". "Family values" might be an example these days. "Jesus' Family Values" is a clearly written, intelligent, even scholarly response. What Jesus and then the early church really taught and lived about family, discipleship, and inclusion, especially as found in Matthew, Luke and Paul's letters, is clearly presented by Deirdre Good. If I were not retired, I would lead a parish Bible study using this book as text...



4. Deirdre Good is a world wide New Testament scholar. She addresses a topic of upmost importance in today's globally diverse world: Jesus' Family Values. She systematically reviews the question through the lenses of New Testament writings from the writings of Paul to the various Gospel naratives. Deirdre concludes that the New Testament portrays a variety of teachings in regards to the most controversial issues facing our religious communities and world. She conludes there is, as a matter of fact, no "unified teaching on marriage, divorce, households, or families." As was true in the day of Jesus, people are continuing to come to Jesus representng a wide variety of lifestyles. No one lifstyle represents Jesus' true family values. Real family values will stand the test of time, she concludes. This is a must read for any person who takes seriously the call to follow Jesus, without sacrificing one's authentic personhood. After reading her book, I conclude that "real" family values reflects a radical commitment to family and neighbor. Conceivably diverse constellations of familes, immediate and extended, are called to reflect God's cosmic,universal, kingdom values. True family values nuance as families continue to live out Kingdom values in a diverse and changing understanding of family and neighbor. As an Episcopal priest, I believe Jesus' family values will ever challege racisim, sexism, homophobia, and hate wherever it is found.

5 comments about Fighting for Your Children: A Father's Guide to Custody.

1. I am a woman and read this book for the benefit of my fiance and his daughter. While there were some excellent tips for figuring out a good strategy for winning custody battles, the examples of men's situations and numerous defeats was depressing! I was especially surprised by the number of men implying that their former spouses just suddenly went nuts and started acting crazy. If men can't get a CLUE, then they shouldn't get custody. If you're a man and you like the idea that women for the most part are stupid, bi-polar, and downright vindictive then you'll love this book. I do have to say that the advice given on looking for a good lawyer, and how to "act" in the courtroom were fairly good. If your ex is so awful that you feel propelled to read this book, I recommend "Joint Custody with a Jerk" instead.



2. I just read the book and as a product of divorced parents I found it to be quite informative. I was comforted to learn that there are many, many people in my shoes. I would recommend this book to both people going through divorces, lawyers, and adult children of divorced parents.



3. This book was very well written and a valuable resource for fathers who have had their child kidnapped by an uncaring mother. The book exposes the judicial system for what it is-CORRUPT. Judges, lawyers, and their supporting cast are like the lions eating the Christians. Unfortunately, these despicable people have zero regard for children or other people, but only for the money that they can extract at the expense of other people's pain and conflict. It is ironic that those in charge of the judicial system should be the ones locked up behind bars for what they do is far more criminal than a typical crook. This book is good ammunition against these judical despots.



4. Numerous case studies are cited which are very interesting to read. There is also an excellent section on what dads should look like when going to court (hint: no flashy cufflinks, expensive suits, etc.). Very good read.



5. This book depicts the judicial system as corrupt. If you start out with that in mind you will tend to feel victimized. The system is a collection of laws, attitudes, accepted norms and people doing a job. To expect everything to come to halt to take care of you and your children is unrealistic. Judges, lawyers, mediators and the rest of the system didn't get up this morning bent on doing you harm. They are doing a job, just as you do your job. With guidelines, bosses and parameters they have to meet.
   
   To see everyone as "despicable people have zero regard for children or other people, but only for the money that they can extract at the expense of other people's pain and conflict" is debilitating.
   
   This book is only a tool. A marginally good tool. You can see the low price for which it is being resold. It is worth the $7.00

No comments about Adult Children of Divorce.

4 comments about Tough Talk to a Stubborn Spouse.

1. This is a fantastic book that will change the mind of anyone considering divorce. It provides a balanced look at any excuse one might have for pursuing a divorce. And its so well-written with humor interjected that I found myself laughing out loud. Easy, informative, and enjoyable reading!



2. So glad that this is back in print!--else my friend might not have got her copy back that I borrowed. This is THE best marriage book I've ever read. Original, insightful, practical, very true to life, very Biblical.



3. A counselor gave us photocopies of some of the pages of this book to read, because we were BOTH guilty of being stubborn spouses! Both of us had been married before, and had brought alot of "excess baggage" into this marriage. Like many remarrieds, we needed to hear what Stephen had to say. We actually bought two copies of the book from Amazon and each read the chapters that applied to ourselves. Without divulging the final chapter, we followed the advise and counsel provided, and re-committed our marriage on our anniversary .... I have to say that it was powerful, meaningful, and binding. We feel more committed and more in love than we did on our wedding day thirteen years ago. Anyone who can identify with being stubborn, selfish, or self-centered in their marriage relationship should read this book. It is a real eye opener, and stops thoughts and threats of divorce dead it in tracks. And if you know of a couple struggling in their marriage, with all the "right" reasons and excuses why they should divorce, this book is for them!



4. My husband & I had a long standing issue in our marriage that would flair up every so often & cause pain & heartache. We are volunteers for a national Christian marriage conference, Christians (remarried), & had sought counseling over the years for this issue. Our last counselor recommended this book, & in particular the last chapter, which details how to "divorce" the marriage you now have & renew your vows. That was over 3 years ago, & the issue has NEVER resurfaced, & we are more in love now after 15+ years, thanks to Stephen Schwanbach.

5 comments about They Both Love You: Two Separate Houses, One Common Love.

1. I love this book! What a great resource for teachers, families and anyone working with children. The predictable, rhyming text is very appealing and the illustrations are adorable.



2. This is a fabulous book to help adults share with kids what is happening in their families. With understanding comes greater attachment, less frustration, understanding, and acceptance. With separation rates so high today, this is a much needed resource. I plan to purchase several to share with families and co-workers.



3. They Both Love You: Two Separate Houses, One Common Love What a blessing this book is to parents going through separation and educators working with the children of these families.
   The rhyme and illustrations will delight and capture the attention of both children and adults.



4. This book really hits the heart of kids and repeats the truth that "they both love you". I have had co-workers see the book and borrow it for their children, then buy it. It is truly a book for everyone, because everyone knows some child that needs to see this book.



5. I've found this book to be a source of comfort and hope for the two children I've shared it with, thus far. The language is exactly enough to offer to a child; it is positive, repetitive and appropriate for a wide range of ages. The illustrations are beautiful and uplifting. In my opinion, "They Both Love You" is an essential tool for parents/caregivers, and should be a part of every child-family professional's library, and gift to every divorcing parent's chlid.
   
   Julia Smithson, Loving Hands Learn 'n' Play
   http://www.lhlearnandplay.com

1 comments about For The Children's Sake:: Parenting Together after the Marriage Ends.

1. Anyone looking for a quick yet very informative book on how to help your children through a divorce (amicable or not) I strongly reccommend this book. It gives good information on how to assist children at any age from infant to adulthood. It suggests ways for the parents to keep their children in focuse during times that may otherwise detract your attention from them. The key is BOTH parents should have this book. And BOTH parents must practice the philosophy of the book. I have been seperate for almost nine months and I purchased an extra book for my estranged wife. My daughter and I have made arts and crafts for her mom and that has helped the "parenting" relationship between her and I. Which in turn is only positive for the child.

4 comments about Louisiana Family Law Guide: A Client's Guide to Divorce, Custody, Child Support, Spousal Support, Community Property, and More.

1. Louisiana Family Law Guide is the most comprehensive book that I have reviewed on divorce, custody, child support, community property, and other related issues. I have found that the advice in this book will saved money. Congratulation to Attorney Stephen Rue for a very fine contribution to those going through the divorce process. I highly recommend this book!



2. This divorce handbook has given me tremendous understanding on what I should expect and am experiencing in my custody -visitation case. I also have been supplied with important information to assist me in making sure that the child support payments are fair. This book is like having a second lawyer.



3. I am in a custody fight with my son's father. I truly believe that following the advice in Mr. Rue's book will help me win the custody battle. The guide also stresses that it is important to always act as a good parent.



4. Although this book is designed for clients, this is an excellent guide for lawyers who generally do not practice in the family law arena.

1 comments about The Great Divorce.

1. This little book is a total joy to read. I know that the author makes it very clear that one should not suppose that he is factually presenting details of the afterlife, yet, in the end he has created a most satisfying image of a plausible afterlife. As for the title, he is referring to the poet-mystic William Blake's Marriage of Heaven and Hell. He points out that this is a synthesis that can never be, for to do so would compromise the absolute Goodness of Heaven, thereby making a Hell of both. Perhaps there can one day be a marriage of Heaven and Earth (thereby showing both to really have been Heaven all along), but never of Heaven and Hell.
   
   I loved the imagery of Hell being very much like a never-ending city on Earth where it is always twilight and eternal night always on the verge. Yet, it is not a crowded city for people keep moving apart because they cannot stand each other's presence. That's just it. People dwell in Hell by their own choice. It is the obsessions that separate them from God and the highest Reality that keep them from leaving. It is even shown that such higher impulses as love and pity, if unhealthily indulged in for their own sake and for nothing higher or transcendent, can keep you in Hell. Yet, this Hell is also Purgatory for those who workout their obsessions. In fact, there is a regular bus service to Heaven for fieldtrips that serve just that purpose (I always suspected that the omnibus originated in Hades.)
   
   As for Heaven, it is perpetually just the moment before dawn and eternal day. The idea that Heaven is actually more substantial than Hell, or Earth, is reasonable, since it is after all the more Real of the two being closer to the Creator. Indeed, the visitors from Hell appear as pale and insubstantial deformed ghosts who find the adamantine hardness and density of the higher plane physically painful (even walking upon the grass.) The residents of the realm however are radiant spirits who do everything that they can to point out the mistakes and illusions that the ghostly visitors still cling to- and which are the only thing keeping them from traveling higher up and farther in to the one true goal. The most detailed and believable of these tutelary spirits is Lewis' own spriritual mentor, George Macdonald.

No comments about Bad Girl in Town (Serenity).

2 comments about ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE.

1. This book has so much life to it that you thirst for more. The suspense kept you reading because you couldn't stand putting the book down. I couldn't wait until the outcome; I was so excited that I read the entire book in one day. I can't wait until Leslie Shaw come out with another book.



2. I REALLY ENJOYED READING ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE. THIS BOOK REALLY HELD MY ATTENTION, THAT I READ IT IN ONE DAY. I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO READING THE NEXT BOOK BY MRS. SHAW. THIS WRITER MADE ME FEEL WHAT EACH CHARACTERS WAS GOING THROUGH. ALTHOUGH THE "BOOK" IS LABEL FICTION, THE "STORY" IS EVERYDAY LIVING.