The Restoration of All Things: Cover, Title, and Table of Contents
An update about my first traditionally published book. May I be so bold as to ask you to share my excitement?
About six years ago—almost to this exact week in October—something unexpected happened. I wrote an article for a website, and a publisher asked if I had any books I wanted to write. I for sure wanted to write books, but I couldn’t say one book idea burned in me beyond all others.
So I thought. I prayed. I consulted friends. And out came an idea for a book about the hope of the return of Christ, especially for those who are suffering. I won’t go into the details here about why that topic burned in a way others didn’t, but it did—and still does.
Well, that publisher initially showed enthusiasm but in the end didn’t want to sign the book. And that’s okay. It’s part of the process. By the way, I submitted the proposal the week Covid hit America, so it probably wasn’t the best timing for a new author, although I had no idea about the global disruption headed for us all. No one did but the Lord.
Every six months or so I would pull out the material for that book, see if I could make it better, and try again with another publisher. I got close a few times, but still no takers. Then, just last year, not one but two publishers wanted the book. Had I changed as an author? Had the publishing landscape changed? Had something else changed? Again, only the Lord knows. I’m thankful Baker Books picked up the book, has done a fantastic job, developing the content, and will release it on June 23, 2026.
Many of you have supported me over the years. You’ve read articles and other books, which has been wonderful. This next book, however, is being published by a traditional publisher, which is a first for me. I understand that doesn’t mean a lot to everyone, and for some, traditional publishing carries too much weight. But this is something I’m really excited about. If I were to use a sports analogy, it would be like playing college football at a small school and then getting drafted by a professional team.
Today I’d love to share the official title, cover, and table of contents with you.
This post isn’t about pre-orders or sales. That comes later. And I don’t actually feel greasy about marketing. Again, with so many of you encouraging me and wanting to help, it will be easy to post instructions on how to buy the book when the time comes.
For now, maybe you could just smile with me.
Title
The Restoration of All Things: How the Promise of Christ’s Return Brings Us Comfort for Today
Cover
Table of Contents
Introduction: This Train Is Bound for Glory
1 Feasting for the Famished
2 Rest for the Weary
3 Bodies for the Broken
4 Family for the Forsaken
5 Justice for the Wronged
6 Glorification for Strugglers
Conclusion: Loving His Appearing
Small Group Discussion Questions
* Photo by Martin Adams on Unsplash