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Archive for the 'Spiritual Growth' Category

Hear The Voice of God

Pick up the Bible That Won’t Let You Put It Down

Nashville, Tenn. – It was 407 years ago that King James of England gathered 54 of the best biblical scholars and linguists of the day to create a new translation of the Bible.  It was 7 years ago that Thomas Nelson gathered more than 100 of the best biblical scholars and linguists of today to create a new translation of the Bible.  The King James Bible was completed in 1611; The Voice was completed in 2011.

Thomas Nelson released The Voice New Testament on Oct. 1. The full Bible is at the printers, due to be released in March 2012.  “Creating a new translation is unbelievably complicated and difficult,” says Gary Davidson, Thomas Nelson Vice-President and Bible Group Publisher. “Every translation of every word from the original Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic needed to be checked and rechecked. After the artists and authors wrote their verses, it was all checked again. Whether 1611 or 2011, the process is much the same.”

The original biblical verses were written by more than 40 different human authors – scholars, pastors, writers, poets and songwriters. The Voice recreates that, also using writers, poets and songwriters as well as pastors and scholars. It gives back the poetry and drama of the original writings that have been homogenized out through the centuries.

“We spent days negotiating the words,” says David Capes, Thomas Nelson Research Professor at Houston Baptist University. “These texts, some are 2,000 or 3,000 years old. We (the scholars) needed the writers to help us get the grit. The Bible is not rated PG. There are unsavory characters doing unsavory things. But we believe these are our spiritual ancestors. When I read about David, I know I am his kind.”

The King James Version was meant to be read aloud to a people who often couldn’t read. The Voice, too, is meant to be read aloud, to a people who are looking for a new way to learn God’s Word – to a people who have become, according to many, biblically illiterate. The Voice will entice readers; they will read chapters and books without realizing it’s been an hour, or two, or three.

“It was as though Matthew was speaking to me,” says Steve Decker, professor at Middle Tennessee State University, with a degree in secondary education from Tennessee Technological University and a Master’s of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, talking about The Voice. “Before I knew it I was into Mark and it was a different voice. It was as though they were talking to me in person.

“It was an unparalleled experience. It’s a bit like getting a high-definition television – the clarity of it. It’s a unique way to experience God. It’s been said that the Word of God is like a lion – you just open the cage and let it out and it can take care of itself.  In The Voice, you’ve let the lion out.”

Why “The Voice?”

The Voice, the very God through whom all was created, is called logos in Greek and has been translated as the “Word,” but truly is the expression of God: the logic, the verbalization, the speaking, the Voice. John tells us it is this Voice who creates the heavens and earth. God Speaks and worlds are born. As Genesis tells it, the cosmos begins and is shaped by God’s Voice. John could not agree more, but his unique insight comes as he identifies Jesus as that Expression or Voice.” – commentary found in The Voice New Testament

“While the ancient term logos does mean the Word, there is much more held in that expression than what we, in our time, immediately think of,” says Frank Couch, The Voice editor and Thomas Nelson Vice President for Translation Development. “In ancient Greek it literally meant the expression of an idea. The concept and the fullness of its expression is the point here and not the unique arrangement of letters.”

Hence The Voice – God is always speaking to us, vibrant and alive in the here and now.

“You will hear God as He whispers His love to you.” – Chris Seay, President Ecclesia Bible Society and scholar involved in The Voice translation

Chris Seay was the original driving force behind the translation. For many years as a pastor in Houston, he wished for a Bible translation that would be easy to understand and could be acted out by those wanting to better understand God’s Word. A friend finally said to him that maybe he was the one to make this happen. Thomas Nelson came on board with the idea, and seven years later a new force has been born, a force to spread God’s Word in a new generation in a new way.

“Our culture has changed, the times have changed,” Couch says. “This is a fresh expression of the passion, humor, grit and beauty of Scripture. It allows readers to see themselves in the story. It lets the truth and wisdom of Scripture come through.”

Visit The Voice on Facebook; visit www.HearTheVoice.com and follow The Voice on Twitter @HearTheVoice – pre-release verses are being posted frequently.                                                                                

Thomas Nelson, Inc. is the world’s largest Christian publisher.  The Company provides multiple formats of Bibles, inspirational books and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Live Event Management, Inc., a Thomas Nelson company, is the nation’s leading producer of Christian live events.   Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information, please visit www.thomasnelson.com

Available for interviews:

Frank Couch, The Voice editor and Thomas Nelson Vice President for Translation Development

Chris Seay, President Ecclesia Bible Society and scholar involved in The Voice translation

David Capes, Thomas Nelson Research Professor at Houston Baptist University

Gary Davidson, Thomas Nelson Vice-President and Bible Group Publisher

Other scholars and writers as schedule permits

Heaven Is for Real: New York Times Best Seller Hits Portugal Best Seller List

Since its release in early November 2010, sales momentum for Heaven Is for Real by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent has continued to surpass every expectation. For the week of August 15, Heaven Is for Real is listed as the #1 best-selling non-fiction paperback title at Portugal’s three largest retailers – FNAC, Bertrand, and Continente.

Heaven Is for Real also is listed currently at #1 by New York Times (paperback nonfiction), #4 (all books) by USA Today, #2 (nonfiction paperback) by Publisher’s Weekly, #2 (nonfiction paperback) by National Public Radio, and #1 (all books) by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.

In addition to being ranked near the top on numerous best seller lists, the four millionth copy of the acclaimed title has recently been printed.

“My favorite moments in publishing are those in which ideas and stories are so powerful that they transcend cultural, geographical, and linguistic boundaries,” says Daisy Hutton, Vice President of Licensing and Export Sales. “Such moments bring us together and help us to remember what unites us all as human beings.  This story of hope and transformation has touched so many lives in so many places.  José Prata and his team at Lua de Papel have done a beautiful job reaching readers in Portugal with Colton and the Burpos’ story. We look forward to the many other translated editions that will publish this fall and to the continued response of readers around the world to this amazing little book.”

The contract, including licensing rights, for Heaven Is for Real was handled by Joel Kneedler of Alive Communications.

Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back (Thomas Nelson, 978-0-8499-4615-8, $16.99, November 2010) is the true story of the Burpo family and Colton, who during his life-threatening illness and sudden surgery, slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He narrowly survives. Several months later while passing by the same hospital that saved him, Colton begins talking about his experiences during surgery and making a trip to heaven. The family didn’t know what to believe, but soon the evidence was clear.

Written in the first-person narrative of Colton’s father, Todd, and by New York Times best-selling author Lynn Vincent, Heaven Is for Real walks readers through the revelation of Colton’s trip, his parent’s initial uncertainties, and the lessons learned by such a small child.

Todd Burpo is pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan and a volunteer fireman. His wife Sonja is a children’s minister, busy pastor’s wife, and mom. Colton, an active eleven year old, has an older sister Cassie and a younger brother Colby.

Lynn Vincent is the New York Times bestselling writer of Same Kind of Different as Me and Going Rogue: An American Life. The author or coauthor of nine books, Vincent worked for eleven years as senior writer, then features editor, at the national news biweekly WORLD Magazine where she covered politics, culture, and current events. A U.S. Navy veteran, Lynn is also a lecturer in writing at the World Journalism Institute and The King’s College in New York City.

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Thomas Nelson is a leading provider of Bibles, products, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes.  For more information, visit our website www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact: Stephanie Newton

Senior Publicist

tel: (615) 902-2320

email: snewton@thomasnelson.com

twitter: @stephnewton

First American Idol Finalist with a Disability Signs Book Deal with Thomas Nelson, Inc.

Scott MacIntyre to Release Autobiography By Faith, Not By Sight in May 2012

(Nashville, Tenn.) – Thomas Nelson, Inc., is pleased to announce the acquisition of American Idol finalist and accomplished singer/songwriter Scott MacIntyre. MacIntyre has signed a one-book publishing agreement for his literary debut, By Faith, Not By Sightan autobiography chronicling his journey as a musical prodigy, blind from birth, and the medical miracle that helped save his life in 2007. The book will be in stores May 2012.

Though only 26 years old, MacIntyre has lived a story worth telling. He has achieved more as a blind twenty-something than most do in a lifetime without physical impairments. His tale begins at the age of three when he first played the piano by ear and includes an impressive education, graduating college at age 19 and receiving his master’s in music overseas.

“Scott MacIntyre continues to inspire people all over the world with his remarkable commitment to perseverance in times of adversity and overcoming what many would consider a disability,” says Matt Baugher, Senior Vice President and Publisher at Thomas Nelson. “His appearance on American Idol is just one small part of this amazing young man’s life. I can’t wait for others to experience his character and passion. We’re thrilled to be partnering with him on this important book.”

While MacIntyre’s list of accolades is impressive—honored guest at the White House, played with musicians such as Alice Cooper and Jason Mraz, headlined concerts in the U.S. and abroad—he attributes glory and success to his Christian faith which remains central to his message.

Baugher believes in the life-changing potential of MacIntyre’s written story: “For Scott, his blindness is merely part of who he is and his much broader story will astound, challenge, and most of all inspire.”

Scott MacIntyre is represented by Frank Breeden, Managing Partner of Premiere Authors Literary Agency (Nashville & Washington, DC).

You can learn more about Scott MacIntyre online at www.scottmacintyre.com, and follow him on Twitter @ScottDMacIntyre.

SCOTT MACINTYRE AND MATT BAUGHER ARE AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEWS.

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Thomas Nelson is a leading provider of Bibles, products, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes.  For more information, visit our website www.thomasnelson.com

For more information, please contact:

Stephanie Newton

Publicity Manager

tel: (615)902-2320

email: snewton@thomasnelson.com

New York Times #1 Best Seller “Heaven Is for Real” Hits #1 on Globe & Mail Best Seller List

Since its release in early November 2010, sales momentum for Heaven Is for Real by Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent has continued to surpass every expectation. On July 17, Heaven Is for Real moved up to the #1 position on the Canadian Globe & Mail best seller hardcover non-fiction list.

Heaven Is for Real also is listed currently at #1 by New York Times (paperback nonfiction), #6 (all books) by USA Today, #2 (nonfiction paperback) by Publisher’s Weekly, #2 (nonfiction paperback) by National Public Radio, and #1 (all books) by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.

In addition to being ranked near the top on numerous best seller lists, the 4 millionth copy of the acclaimed title has recently been printed.

“We’re thrilled to see Heaven is for Real hit #1 on The Globe and Mail best seller list,” said Rod Schumacher, Director of Export for Thomas Nelson, Inc. “To my knowledge, this is the first time a Thomas Nelson title has occupied the top spot on an international best sellers list; it’s great that Colton’s story of hope and inspiration is one that resonates with people all over the world.”

In March 2003, Todd and Sonja Burpo were on the verge of their worst nightmare – losing a child. Their 4-year-old son Colton’s appendix had unknowingly burst days before, and he was now fighting a life-threatening infection. To save Colton, surgery was the only option. But what would happen during that surgery was more than healing through modern medicine.

Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back (Thomas Nelson, 978-0-8499-4615-8, $16.99, November 2010) is the true story of the Burpo family and Colton, who during his life-threatening illness and sudden surgery, slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He narrowly survives. Several months later while passing by the same hospital that saved him, Colton begins talking about his experiences during surgery and making a trip to heaven. The family didn’t know what to believe, but soon the evidence was clear.

Written in the first-person narrative of Colton’s father, Todd, and by New York Times best-selling author Lynn Vincent, Heaven Is for Real walks readers through the revelation of Colton’s trip, his parent’s initial uncertainties, and the lessons learned by such a small child.

The Burpo family is represented by Joel Kneedler of Alive Communications.

Todd Burpo is pastor of Crossroads Wesleyan and a volunteer fireman. His wife Sonja is a children’s minister, busy pastor’s wife, and mom. Colton, an active eleven year old, has an older sister Cassie and a younger brother Colby.

Lynn Vincent is the New York Times bestselling writer of Same Kind of Different as Me and Going Rogue: An American Life. The author or coauthor of nine books, Vincent worked for eleven years as senior writer, then features editor, at the national news biweekly WORLD Magazine where she covered politics, culture, and current events. A U.S. Navy veteran, Lynn is also a lecturer in writing at the World Journalism Institute and The King’s College in New York City.

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Thomas Nelson is a leading provider of Bibles, products, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes.  For more information, visit our website www.thomasnelson.com

For more information, please contact:

Stephanie Newton

Publicity Manager

tel: (615)902-2320

email: snewton@thomasnelson.com

“Rumors of God” Invites Church to Believe What They’ve Heard

Hope of a Life That Transcends Culture’s Shallowness

(Nashville, Tenn.) – Many Christians live with the tension between what they know the Scriptures promise, and what they are actually experiencing in their lives. God seems distant, and the life described in Scriptures seems more like a series of rumors than reality. As pastors of different mega churches in large suburban US cities, these two friends share a passion to help people break free of the spiritual ruts they are trapped within, and perhaps for the first time, come to life. In Rumors of God (Thomas Nelson), fellow Aussies Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson lay out the spiritual obstacles they see the North American church facing, and provide insightful ways to overcome them.

Believers and non-believers have said that a lot of Christians cynically feel the greatest days of the church are in the past. The authors disagree. This book is their small rebellion against that notion. Rumors of God is a rally cry for the church in which Whitehead and Tyson share compelling stories, cultural observations, and illuminating Scriptural insights about the work and activity of God today. They believe that if you listen to the rumors of God, you will hear that God is doing something new in the church, and they desire to confirm these rumors with their own lives. Whitehead and Tyson believe God is writing an epic, global, redemptive story in which every single person has been invited to participate.

Key points of Rumors of God:

• Our attention has drifted from God and rested on the trappings of the world. All the while, our Father has something better awaiting us if we simply ask.

• Rather than trusting God to supply our needs, we get caught in the frenzy of accumulation. In contrast to this mind-set, Jesus says life is more important than material pursuits.

• When we forget the wonder of our identity and position in Christ, we end up relegating the church to a mere organization, while our union with God falls to the theoretical.

• If we are going to transform rumors of grace into powerful encounters with its reality, we need to reexamine our approach to sin, judgment, the gospel, and truth.

• Deep in the believer’s soul is a longing to see the fame and deeds of God renewed and known in our time, and a belief that we were all created for a radical pursuit of Jesus and His kingdom.

In his forward, Bill Hybels, founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Ill., and chairman of the board for the Willow Creek Association says, “In Rumors of God, Darren and Jon have somehow succeeded in slipping 3D glasses over our eyes. The results are that passages from scripture come alive in ways that will impact readers for a long time.”

Originally from Australia, Darren Whitehead has been on staff at Willow Creek Community Church for 6 years.  As Teaching Pastor, Darren and Senior Pastor Bill Hybels share the weekend service responsibilities to provide teaching for all five campuses. He also leads the Next Gen Ministries and Creative Arts Departments. Prior to Willow Creek, Darren served as Teaching Pastor and Director of Student Ministries at The People’s Church in Nashville, TN. He lives just outside of Chicago, IL with his wife Brandy and their three half Aussie, half American daughters. For more information about Willow Creek, go to www.willowcreek.org. Twitter: @DarrenWhitehead

Jon Tyson is the Lead Pastor of Trinity Grace Church with five locations in New York City. Originally from Australia, Jon moved to the United States 14 years ago and worked at several suburban mega churches in next-gen ministry before planting TGC 4 years ago. He is also on the board of City Collective, a network of incarnational churches committed to multiplying missional church networks in the urban centers of the world. You can see more about their church at www.trinitygracechurch.com and the network at www.citycollective.org. He lives in Manhattan with his wife, Christy, and two children. Twitter: @JonTyson

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Thomas Nelson is a leading provider of Bibles, products, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes.  For more information, visit our website www.thomasnelson.com.

Rumors of God

By Darren Whitehead &  Jon Tyson

Available from Thomas Nelson

Release date: July 2011

Pages: 256

Trade Paper ISBN: 9781595553638 / $15.99 / 5.5” x 8.38”

E-Book ISBN: 9781595553645 / $14.99

BISAC category: RELIGION / CHRISTIAN LIFE / SPIRITUAL GROWTH

AUTHOR INTERVIEWS, IMAGES, ARTICLES, AND EXCERPTS AVAILABLE.

Contact: Brenda Smotherman, Thomas Nelson,

bsmotherman@thomasnelson.com