‘Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.’ – Ephesians 5:25. This is the revelation that has shaped decades of service and ministry – Alan Hoare ‘loves the Church’. Alan’s book dives into the depths of wisdom and grace hidden and revealed in the book of Ephesians. Alan is a contemporary meditative. A modern-day mystic, he writes with the aptitude of a seasoned pastor and theologian. The book is more than academically ‘sound’ – he writes with the fine brush strokes of an artist and the blended harmonies of a composer. I am honoured to commend this latest outpouring of the pure heart of one of my most valued friends.

Rev. Canon Chris Bowater
Pastor, worship leader, songwriter, teacher, author

In a world that craves instant answers and instant spirituality, Alan has discovered that taking time with God’s word means sometimes slowing down; learning to ‘chew it over’ prayerfully in our hearts and minds in order that the Holy Spirit can apply it to our lives. So it is with his work on Ephesians. This is not a sprint through Paul’s letter. Part devotional, part commentary, Alan’s work helps us engage with God through his word by allowing us to move slowly through Paul’s letter, bringing us into God’s plan for his Church, and ultimately for us whom he has graciously conjoined to this great historic caravan of faith as we journey heavenward! Enjoy every helping of this meal for the soul!

Dr Johnny Markin, D.W.S.
Worship pastor and University instructor/consultant

As an activist, I have always found the practice of slowing my pace and pausing over tiny chunks of truth one at a time, dwelling in them and pondering over them a challenging one. Alan’s life embodies this essential habit of contemplation which infuses a beautiful compassion and sweet grace, making for a healing presence to the world around him. By applying this unhurried way of life to his mining of the book of Ephesians, Alan has produced a generous guide and a prophetic now word to the church. This meander into an ancient letter empowers us to stop and rest, to sip and taste and to drink in the rich and profound truths for the benefit of our souls and for the hope of our communities. This letter is as valuable for us now as for the ancient people of Ephesus and Alan dissects the words and rummages around the historic context to apply timely truths to our today. I am grateful for this miner and curator of hope and truth. His investment in my life has been precious.

– Joy

Alan’s combination of grounded, real life stories and deep biblical study is explosive! His writing will take you deeper into the word and into putting faith into practice. His love for God and for people is so evident through his writing and thinking.

– Paul

Paul and Joy Blundell
Location Pastors (Alive Lincoln North)

The first time I met Alan, I met a man whose every heartbeat showed pastoral love and care. He is a pastor’s pastor and I learned so much working alongside him in Lincoln. His wisdom and biblical knowledge shine through every word he speaks and writes. This latest book is a gift from the throne room of God to every reader. His thoughts and insights on Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians are so refreshing and encouraging. Just as the Ephesians must have looked forward to receiving Paul’s writings so I was just as excited waiting for this! It will bring many hours of reflection and insight for your encouragement and growth in your faith – enjoy and be blessed!

– Malcolm

Any help with daily devotions is always welcome and I can think of no better person than our dear friend Alan. His years of biblical studies and bible school teaching enable him to unpack deep mysteries and make them easy to digest for challenged readers like myself. Highly recommended.

– Trish

Malcolm and Trish Morgan
Pioneer missionaries into Greece

Living in a cross-cultural world; with the passion to see God’s agenda for life transformation of the people we work with, it can all too easily bring us into a trap of distraction. Alan’s deep desire to bring God’s people to be enlightened with His word, in order to be more effective in serving the King of kings, has impacted our cross-cultural working lives. Through this latest daily devotional on Ephesians, Alan has led us to ‘dig deeper’ to get His living water that refreshes us, to follow God’s design for His church in Cambodia.

Joko and Karen Kristiono
Pioneer missionaries into Cambodia

Reading Alan’s books is like taking a long walk on a glorious day. Satisfying, life-affirming and filled with small beauties and great wonders. The path is always before you even if you don’t know where you will end up. You could encounter beautiful waterfalls, deep, still pools and more than one mountain summit on your journey. Exploring these letters with Alan is such a privilege, for we have a guide who has walked these paths for years, knows the best views and the most refreshing springs. There is no pressure here, but peace, and wide, sun-lit spaces. It is as close as you can get to studying the letter with Jesus.

Andy and Gillian Fox
Fellow travellers and friends in the faith

In a world that is too fast-moving, this book is like a restful, nourishing, challenging and comforting breath of fresh air. Alan peels back the layers of Ephesians to impart new revelation that not only gives understanding, but touches and changes hearts. His level of research and Bible knowledge is inspiring and it is a pleasure to begin our day with his writing. The format is easily accessible and quickly applicable. Having known Alan for over 20 years and often benefitted from his teaching, pastoring and friendship, we are thrilled that he has put his voice onto paper. We wholeheartedly recommend this book to you.

Dave and Helen Pennington
Fellow travellers and friends in the faith