books
teleios: draws upon the theology and thinking contained in the publications of James Thwaites for its initial impetus. During the past ten years in particular, James has been active in many countries promoting the hebraic vision of church and the corresponding emphasis this brings on one’s work in creation. His first publication ‘the church beyond the congregation’ remained a best-seller in Britain for a number of years; it has now become a reference book for many church leaders and authors in regards to church strategy and the theology of work.
On this page you will find a brief introduction to these books, and details should you wish to order any of them.
Here you will also find several articles that cover the main elements of the theology of work in creation and its relationship to the nature and purpose of Christ’s body the church. For those who have not read the above mentioned books, these articles will serve as a introduction and necessary primer for the coming conference.
$18 plus postage.
Title: The Church Beyond the Congregation
Author: James Thwaites
Publisher: Paternoster UK
Year First Published:1999.
Revised Edition 2000, Reprinted 2001, 2004.
This book examines the church from the standpoint of an hebraic worldview. It argues that much of the church’s present worldview has been influenced by platonic thinking – in particular his dualistic teaching that separates the heaven of God from the earth. From this hebraic standpoint it looks anew at the church and its relationship to the present created order.
Roger Mitchell, Passion UK: ‘We are at the dawn of a new season in the work of God, the re-orientation of the church into the world. A new season needs a new biblical prophetic voice. James Thwaites has that voice.’
John van Geldermalsen, ex CEO Time Magazine Australia ‘I believe that the hearing and implementation of the message of ‘The Church Beyond the Congregation’ is an imperative for this time.’
$18 plus postage.
Title: Renegotiating the Church Contract
Author: James Thwaites
Publisher: Paternoster UK
Year First Published:2001.
This book examines the impact of platonic dualism on the disposition, shape, and strategy of the organisational form of gathered church. It then explores, drawing from Christ’s journey through life, death and resurrection, how we might make the journey from construct to creation.
Jill Garrett, MD of the Gallup Organisation UK: Many Christians feel pulled apart by the demands of loyally supporting their ‘local church’ and wanting to be effective Christian witnesses in the world God that has put them in. Their ‘duty’ to the former drains their ability to be effective in the latter. James Thwaites’ message challenges Christians to completely rethink and reposition their service to that they can be Christ’s witnesses in the fullness of all God’s creation.
$15 plus postage.
Title: Church that Works
Author: David Oliver & James Thwaites
Publisher: Paternoster UK
Year First Published:2001.
This co-written book explores how the church in creation might be encouraged and developed to form a strong culture in which one’s everyday work is integrated into the purposes of God.
Gordon McKenzie, Country Manager, Microsoft Scotland: ‘This book is dynamite! It will blow apart your concepts of both work and church life, so much so that you may ask ‘what have I been doing with my life until now?’ These authors are breaking new ground in our understanding of God’s destiny for his people. Prepared to be challenged!’
John Paul Jackson, Founder, Steams Ministries International:‘Church that Works’ is one of the most innovative and compelling books I’ve read. Oliver and Thwaites could spark enough passion in the marketplace to ignite massive evangelism’.
