"Of making many books there is no end," moaned the Preacher. Soon their will be one more tome to add to that lamentation. Yesterday John Coleman and I officially agreed to a contract with Crossway Books to publish our book, How to Argue Like Jesus. The book examines communications, persuasion, and rhetoric using Christ as the exemplary model.
First, I should say that it's a great honor for us novice authors to share the same publisher as Francis Schaeffer, R.C. Sproul, and John Piper (not to mention Tim Challies, Andrew Jackson, and Mark D. Roberts). Crossway was my first choice when I considered a publisher so it is thrilling to have them make such an offer. John and I are extremely grateful to everyone who gave us this incredible opportunity.
Second, I want to thank John for bringing this project to fruition. Back in January I mentioned to him that I had an idea for a book but that I lacked the discipline to write it on my own. John offered to help me out and I eventually suckered him in to being a co-author. (A tip for aspiring writers: If you're a procrastinator with limited writing ability, it helps to partner with someone smart, sharp, and disciplined. It certainly worked for me.) Even though he had a full-time job at McKinsey and Co., the world's most famous consulting firm, and was preparing to move to Boston to attend Harvard Business School(!), John found the time to write, edit, fix my sloppy contributions, and shape it all into a publishable work. I'm deeply grateful for his help.
Third, I want to say how much I appreciate those of you who unknowingly contributed to this book (you'll see your name in the acknowledgments).
Fourth, and most importantly, I want to thank God for being with me throughout this process. Even if no one else is edified by our work, it forced me to delve deeper into Scripture. My appreciation for Christ is magnified greatly by focusing on his genius.
We're polishing up the final draft so it shouldn’t affect my blogging as much as it has the past few months. I'll keep everyone posted on the details as I move forward on this exciting new venture.
Joe - you are not helping your credibility by saying nice things about me;) Thank you and congrats. This has been and looks to be a fun process.
Congratulations, Joe!
That is terrific Joe - I eagerly look forward to reading it.
Congratulations, Joe - that's quite an accomplishment. I wonder if Mr. Coleman would like to help me finish my dissertation?
Among other duties I review books for the newsletter our ministry publishes (and I edit). For several years I did a radio program during which I interviewed scores of authors after reading their books. All that to say this...CROSSWAY is by far the best publishing house of which I know.
Whenever they send me a review copy I know it will be biblical, well-written, and applicable. I have NEVER seen a CROSSWAY book that I'd not recommend; just wish I could read (and review!) them all.
Hey,
Congrats Joe. Can't wait to read the book. I agree with the other posts. After working in the Christian Books store markets for years, Crossway was always a consistent publisher putting out quality products.
If Joe's got some time free, maybe he could help me get organized so I can finish my High school graduation thank you letters.
Did I mention I graduated in 1988? I'm just a little behind.
Again, congrats!!!
Congratulations, Joe! This is great news. BTW, if John takes up ex-preacher's offer to co-author his dissertation, I'm next in line.
This is great Joe. I know Jesus turned over tables once and a while, but I didn't know that he engaged in many arguments. I look forward to its release.
Is there an apologist named William Lane Craig that has books published by Crossway...that’s right…there is ;) I have, for example, Hard Question Real Answers and Craig’s legendary book Reasonable Faith (both by Crossway). Sounds like a great book, Joe. Keep up the great work!
Excellent news, Joe.
Joe, I'm a few days late on the take here but congratulations. We look forward to this release and celebrate the accomplishment.