David L McKenna

Do you feel as if you have been "burned" by the church and its institutions? Or have you stayed away for fear of being "burned"? In either case, you are not alone. Confidence in the church and its institutions has plummeted since the turn of the century, especially among the younger generation. The rush to judgment is premature. In David McKenna's growing years, he had to go through the hoops and hurdles of a radical holiness tabernacle. At the time, the human standards were odious. But now, from the perspective of seventy years or more, he can see how the threads of grace were being woven together into the whole cloth of God's perfect will for his life. With confidence, then, he only asks that this young generation give the church a chance. It is imperfect, but it is still an instrument of the grace of God. With full candor and full confidence, then, McKenna offers his spiritual odyssey as witness to the triumphs of God's grace.

Do you feel as if you have been "burned" by the church and its institutions? Or have you stayed away for fear of being "burned"? In either case, you are not alone. Confidence in the church and its institutions has plummeted since the turn of the century, especially among the younger generation. The rush to judgment is premature. In David McKenna's growing years, he had to go through the hoops and hurdles of a radical holiness tabernacle. At the time, the human standards were odious. But now, from the perspective of seventy years or more, he can see how the threads of grace were being woven together into the whole cloth of God's perfect will for his life. With confidence, then, he only asks that this young generation give the church a chance. It is imperfect, but it is still an instrument of the grace of God. With full candor and full confidence, then, McKenna offers his spiritual odyssey as witness to the triumphs of God's grace.

The digital copies of these recordings are available for free at First Fruits website. place.asburyseminary.edu/firstfruits Perhaps as at no other time in its 135 years of existence, the Free Methodist Church stands at a crossroad. Stability, tradition, order, reliability and comfortable forms mark one path. In contrast, a spirit of innovation, cultural change, lowered interest in history, growth orientation and creative energy beckon for radical change. No longer will shibboleths or stories of past days satisfy the cravings of younger Christians. Nor will they satisfy the curious of the contemporary culture that question the meaning of our existence and the purpose of our mission. In brief, the Free Methodist Church again seeks to define its soul, articulate its mission, respond to its origin and seek a fresh understanding of God's purpose for this day. At Hebron, David enjoyed the luxury of the men of Issachar who "understood the times and knew what Israel should do." We, too, look for those who understand the issues, clearly comprehend the alternatives and offer sound insight and advice. If leadership is defined as understanding the issues and consequences better than those around them, the author of this work, Dr. David L. McKenna, comes with pristine leadership credentials. His skills of analysis coupled with his understanding of the church commend him to this task. Ordained in the Michigan Conference (now Southern Michigan Conference) in 1952, McKenna felt the call of God to complete doctoral studies. With his academic background, serving on the faculties of Ohio State University and the University of Michigan, and burgeoning leadership skills, he became president of Spring Arbor College in 1961, where he served for seven years. Following that, he served Seattle Pacific University as president for 14 years. In 1982 McKenna's theological ability and leadership skills resulted in his selection as the fourth president of Asbury Theological Seminary. On his watch and under his leadership occurred the most outstanding growth in the institution's history. His further contributions include scores of articles and books produced by a variety of publishers. Seldom do unusual wisdom, superior intellect and a passionate love for the church reside in one person. All three flourish in David McKenna. His devotion to the task of "getting his hands around the amoeba of the Free Methodist Church" has provided a challenge worthy of his finest effort. Undaunted by unexpected physical difficulties and encouraged by his jubilant and faith-filled wife, Janet, McKenna has rendered a service to his church that will inform both its loyalists and critics for decades to come. A Future with a History: The Wesleyan Witness of the Free Methodist Church will inspire your heart, inform your mind and bring you to a clearer understanding of the exciting challenges at hand. John E. Van Valin, Publisher

The digital copies of these recordings are available for free at First Fruits website. place.asburyseminary.edu/firstfruits Remembering the glory of the past, we can confront the reality of the present, and with the glory of the past and the reality of the present, the future has the promise of hope.

Written BY Preachers and Teachers FOR Preachers and TeachersCombining fresh insights with readable exposition and relatable examples, The Preacher's Commentary will help you minister to others and see their lives transformed through the power of God's Word. Whether preacher, teacher, or Bible study leader--if you're a communicator, The Preacher's Commentary will help you share God's Word more effectively with others.This volume on the first 39 chapters of Isaiah approaches the text in full view its theological, linguistic, and historical challenges.Each volume is written by one of today's top scholars, and includes:Innovative ideas for preaching and teaching God's WordVibrant paragraph-by-paragraph expositionImpelling real-life illustrationsInsightful and relevant contemporary applicationAn introduction, which reveals the author's approachA full outline of the biblical book being coveredScripture passages (using the New King James Version) and explanations The Preacher's Commentary offers pastors, teachers, and Bible study leaders clear and compelling insights into the Bible that will equip them to understand, apply, and teach the truth in God's Word.