CHRISTIAN CHARACTER

          This book covers 26 Christian character traits or attributes with narrower groupings related to regeneration, the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, fruits of the Spirit, core values or qualities, family and friends, romantic relationships, work ethics, struggles in life, and decision-making. Brainstorming sessions, hymn sings, intriguing insights, movie nights, nature studies, and other activities generate interest. A precise, multi-faceted definition of the moral trait or virtue sets the scope, improving the focus throughout every lesson.


          Within each lesson of Christian Character, the first section addresses the question, “Why does character matter?” The specific answer unfolds through two key verses and two biblical characters. Section two responds to the question, “What does Christian character look like?” It examines the trait or attribute more closely and explores spiritual applications. The last section answers the question, “How can believers improve their Christian character?” Mere self-effort does not build or improve godly behavior, thoughts, or attitudes. Only the Holy Spirit’s power can enable anyone to keep the moral law, cultivate Christian integrity, and develop true righteousness or holiness.
          Believers must understand God’s desire and then petition him for help. To encourage the latter, participants complete a “Heart Assessment, Reflection, and Petition” (HARP) chart after each lesson to examine their lives and consider areas for change or reform. The closing prayer acknowledges past failures to improve or develop Christian character. It also petitions the Holy Spirit for divine guidance and strength to build or cultivate Christian character traits going forward.


          The book has several other notable features that enhance its value. Christian Character’s “Introduction” explains the dangers of dismissing moral law or ignoring gospel power, warning against unbiblical perspectives about morality. Each lesson’s review questions and answers encourage understanding biblical truths before exploring applications. A comprehensive list of similar virtues or characteristics points to relevant lessons in the table of contents. Moreover, three indices help readers navigate the text.
          A “Teaching and Learning Guide” addresses various pedagogic issues. This educational tool explains the sharp focus and desired impact of Christian Character across four overlapping groups of believers; discusses the common structure and purpose of each lesson; lays out one- and two-year programs of instruction or study for those desiring a more thorough, extended coverage of the text in a group or classroom setting; warns about unexpected classroom issues from an academician’s point of view, suggesting solutions; and provides detailed guidance about each lesson’s main sections. The “Teaching and Learning Guide” also discusses many aspects about how to teach or study this Christian Character curriculum with the free, but optional, PowerPoint slides (click to view an abbreviated sample). Finally, this website provides password access to full-size HARP charts for easier journaling.


          For teens and adults, Christian Character can be a self-study program, traditional textbook, daily devotional, biblical and behavioral counseling aid, or casual read. It is suitable for a Sunday school class or program, home school, Christian academy or high school curriculum, religious college or university course, group book or Bible study, or cozy-by-the-fire browse. The text’s distinctive approach encourages and facilitates the spiritual growth of evangelical believers through the Holy Spirit’s work.
          To see what others think about Christian Character, read some of the reviews. For further insights, the frequently asked questions provide the backstory about how the book developed and explain who can benefit from the text and how. Please share the press release, promo flyer, and book cover with friends, family, school administrators, academic directors, Bible study groups, and Sunday school coordinators.
          If interested in purchasing Christian Character, look for sales prices from online booksellers. Also, check out the book’s webpage at Wipf and Stock Publisher and the Wipf and Stock homepage to see if the publisher might be offering its own promotion discount or coupon code.