1. Japanese Bibles & Bible Portions

Which version? The Shinkaiyaku version is a standard translation, which is widely used in evangelical churches in Japan. It was first published in 1970 and subsequently revised in 1978 and 2004. The Living Bible is a paraphrase, which aims to make the meaning of the text easier for modern readers to understand. It is not often used in corporate worship.

Buying for a friend? If you are buying a Bible or New Testament for someone who has never read it before, you might like to consider giving them a copy of Miura Ayako’s Introduction to the Old Testament or Introduction to the New Testament (see section 3). These are wonderful books which give beginners the confidence to begin reading the Bible for themselves.

	Medium-sized Bible (Shinkaiyaku version) 19cm × 15cm Grey vinyl cover. Contains cross-references and colour maps
	Price: £22.00 - [Order]

	Small-sized Bible (Shinkaiyaku version) 15.5cm × 12cm Grey vinyl cover. Contains cross-references. No maps. Easy to carry but older people may prefer the larger print in the medium-sized version.
	Price: £16.00 - [Order]

	The Living Bible – Paraphrased 18cm × 13cm Paperback. Good selection of maps and charts. Each book is preceded by a short introduction. No cross references. (Unlike the Shinkaiyaku version, there is no furigana to show the pronunciation of Chinese characters. This is not a problem for Japanese people but if you are a non-native speaker, we recommend that you choose a Shinkaiyaku version.)
	Price: £18.00 - [Order]

	New Testament (Shinkaiyaku version) 18cm × 13cm Paperback. Contains maps. No cross-references.
	Price: £4.00 - [Order]

	Bilingual Japanese/English New Testament 11cm x 15cm Shinkaiyaku with New King James version. Olive green vinyl with paper cover. Contains maps. No cross references. No furigana to show the pronunciation of Chinese characters.
	Price: £6.50 - [Order]

2. Bilingual Bible Study Texts

Written by Hugh Trevor, who spent many years in Japan as a missionary with OMF, these are ideal for use in one-to-one or small group studies. Each chapter contains questions and short explanatory notes. The Japanese is on the left hand page and the English is on the right.

Bible Study for Beginners Part 1 The Ideal Pattern for Life, God, Sin and Salvation An excellent way to introduce the Christian message to those with little or no previous knowledge of the Bible. The 12 studies cover topics such as Our Attitude to Material Posessions, Love, The Prodigal Son, The True God, Creation and the Problem of Sin, Forgiveness of Sins through Christ’s Death. For many Japanese people, it is helpful to study these basic topics before going on to look at Jesus’ life in Part 2

Price: £2.50 - [Order]

	Bible Study for Beginners Part 2 The Life of Christ 12 studies looking at the life and teaching of Jesus and the meaning of his death and resurrection.
	Price: £2.50 - [Order]

	Bible Study for Beginners Part 3 Growing in the Knowledge of God 17 studies looking at the spread of the gospel in Acts and basic teaching for new Christians on Assurance of Salvation, Baptism, Prayer, The Bible, Guidance and Being a Witness. The final lessons cover Christ’s Second Coming and Heaven.
	Price: £3.00 - [Order]

	Christianity at a Glance Basic Bible Study from the New Testament A short course of 9 studies selected from Bible Study for Beginners Part 1 and 2. Passages are taken only from the New Testament. Ideal for those who need a brief introduction to the Bible in a limited period of time.
	Price: £1.50 - [Order]

	In the Beginning Bible Studies on Genesis 17 studies from the Book of Genesis.
	Price: £2.00 - [Order]

	Faith in Action Bible Studies on Samuel and Ruth 14 studies from 1 and 2 Samuel and 2 studies from the Book of Ruth.
	Price: £2.00 - [Order]

	What Christians Believe Bible Studies on the Apostle’s Creed The Apostle’s Creed is read each Sunday at most churches in Japan. These 15 studies show the Biblical truths on which the Creed is based. Originally written for those preparing for baptism, it also highlights the difference in orthodox doctrine from groups such as the Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons, which are widespread in Japan.
	Price: £2.50 - [Order]

3. Japanese Books introducing Christianity

a) Books by Miura Ayako
b) First Step Series
c) Others

a) Books by Miura Ayako (paperbacks 15cm × 11cm)
Miura Ayako is a household name in Japan and consistently ranks as one of the top ten most popular novelists. This is amazing in a country where less than one percent of the population identify with her faith. Her books are a wonderful resource and many Christians testify to the role that her writings have played in their journey to faith. We cannot recommend them too highly.

Michi ariki (There is a Way) An autobiography in which Miura Ayako describes her journey from nihilism and despair to faith in Christ. After reading this book a Japanese lady living in the UK recently wrote, “I was amazed to find that she had been just like me with the same questions and struggles. I felt that she was speaking to me and I suddenly realised that the Bible could be personal and relevant for me too.”

Price: £3.70 - [Order]

Hikari aru uchi ni (While there is still Light) Probably the best short introduction to the Christian faith. Drawing on personal experience and observation of human nature, Miura Ayako shows that people are basically weak and self-centred but argues that this should cause us to seek God and a deeper meaning for our lives. She presents the good news of God’s love shown through Jesus’ death on the cross and encourages the reader to take their first steps to discover a new life in relationship with Him.

Price: £3.00 - [Order]

	Shinyaku seisho nyumon (Introduction to the New Testament) Using illustrations from her own life and from Japanese culture, Miura Ayako provides a wonderful guide for anyone who is beginning to read the New Testament for the first time. Written in an informal, conversational style, this book avoids the danger of beginners giving up half way through the genealogy of Matthew chapter one!
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]

	Kyuyaku seisho nyumon (Introduction to the Old Testament) For many Japanese people the Old Testament can appear confusing and impenetrable. This introduction by Miura Ayako, which focuses on the better-known parts of the Old Testament, gives people the confidence to begin reading for themselves.
	Price: £3.70 - [Order]

	Shiokaritoge (Shiokari Pass) Based on the true story of one who sacrificed his life to save others in a railway accident, this is one of Miura Ayako’s best-loved novels. It portrays a man’s journey of self-discovery that leads him towards understanding and acceptance of the Christian faith. A classic in its own right – can be enjoyed even by those with only a passing interest in Christianity.
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]

Hitsujigaoka (The Sheep Hill) Disillusioned with her marriage and unable to accept her husband’s weaknesses, the young heroine of this novel by Miura Ayako is confronted by the questions, “Is love more than just feelings?” and “What is forgiveness?” Drawing parallels with the parable of the prodigal son, this is a sobering read for all those who seek fulfilment in romantic love and a challenge to those who consider themselves morally superior to others. Thought-provoking without preaching.

Price: £3.70 - [Order]

b) First Step Series
Written by Uchida Kazuhiko, a Japanese pastor who spent several years studying in the US and UK, these short books are suitable for those who want to know more about the Christian faith. Easy to read in a clear, factual style.
 

	Kirisutokyo wa hajimete (Christianity for Beginners) A basic introduction to Christianity based on exploring the meaning of John 3:16. Each chapter discusses a phrase of this verse to explain the basic concepts of God, God’s love, Jesus, salvation and eternal life. The final chapter deals with repentance and faith.
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]

	Inori wa hajimete (Prayer for Beginners) A basic introduction to Christian prayer. What is prayer? To whom do we pray? What can we pray about? Includes a chapter which looks phrase by phrase at the meaning of the Lord’s Prayer and a final chapter of frequently asked Q&As. A very helpful book for anyone who has been looking in to Christianity and wants to begin talking to God.
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]

	Seisho wa hajimete (The Bible for Beginners) A clear, factual introduction to the Bible. What are the Old and New Testaments? What were the original scripts and how have they been translated? What are the central themes of the Bible? There are also brief descriptions of the main books in the Old and New Testaments. The final chapter encourages the reader to approach the Bible humbly and prayerfully in order to hear God speaking through it.
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]
	Kyokai wa hajimete (Church for Beginners) The vast majority of Japanese people have never attended a church service. This book encourages people to make their first visit by answering some of their basic questions. It gives guidance on how to choose a church and explains the various elements of a typical Sunday worship service, as well as other activities such as Sunday school, prayer meetings, Bible classes and home groups. The final chapter entitled 'What is Church?' explains that church is not a building or a place exclusively for teaching but a gathering of God's people and shows how the church is portrayed in the Bible as the Body and Bride of Christ. There is also a helpful Q&A section dealing with questions such as, 'Why are there so many denominations?' and 'Do I have to go to church if I am a Christian?' Suitable for complete beginners as well as those who have become Christians overseas with little experience of church life in Japan.
	Price: £3.50 - [Order]

c) Others

	Kibo aru ikikata gaido (Live a Hopeful Life) Japanese people often view religion as either a means of obtaining material blessing or as a path to moral self-improvement. Pastor Hideo Chiyozaki shows that neither of these can deal with our fundamental problem of sin. He introduces the God of the Bible, shows that Jesus was more than just a good moral teacher and explains that the cross and resurrection are God’s answer to our problem. In the final chapter he discusses our response and explains what it means to repent and believe in Jesus. An excellent short introduction which covers the basics of the gospel in 60 pages
	Price £2.00 - [Order]
	Baputesuma ni sonaete (Preparing for Baptism) Written by a Japanese Baptist pastor, Yokoyama Takeshi, this is a helpful book for anyone considering baptism. The first chapter explains that it is those who have repented and believed in Jesus who should be baptised. The second chapter discusses the meaning of baptism as a symbol of new birth and as a public confession of faith. The third chapter reminds the reader that we are saved by faith and not by works but also outlines how a new believer should live both within the local church and in society. If your Japanese friend says, ‘I believe in Jesus but I’m not good enough to be baptised’ or ‘I don’t need to be baptised – I can just believe in my heart’, please buy them this book!
	Price: £4.00 - [Order]

	Kami to no 7fun (Seven Minutes with God) A short leaflet written by Robert Foster and published by the Navigators which explains the basics of spending a daily quiet time with God. Suitable for a new Christian, it suggests setting aside seven minutes each morning and shows how that time can be spent in reading the Bible and talking to God in prayer. The hope is that those who establish this habit will soon find that seven minutes is not nearly long enough!
	Price: £0.20 - [Order]
	Seishi no toki no mochikata (How to Have a Quiet Time) A more substantial booklet written by Warren and Ruth Myers and published by the Navigators. It acknowledges the pressures we face in our busy lives, but encourages us to avail ourselves of the wonderful privilege of spending time each day with our Heavenly Father. With practical suggestions about how to read the Bible and pray, it is a challenging and inspiring booklet for Christians at all stages of their walk with God
	Price: £1.50 - [Order]
	Yami ni kagayaku tomoshibi o tsuide (Take the Torch Shining in the Dark) At the age of fourteen, Stephen Metcalf was interned in a Japanese POW camp where he met Eric Liddell, the Olympic champion runner made famous in the film 'Chariots of Fire'. Eric challenged Stephen to love and forgive their Japanese captors and to pray for them. Eric died in the camp but Stephen, inspired by his example, went on to spend thirty-eight years a missionary in Japan. In this book Stephen looks back on his eventful life and bears witness to God's faithfulness. It is a wonderful reminder for Christians that God is in control, even when life is difficult, but it is also suitable for those who know little about the Christian faith as it is written in a light, personal style with the gospel interwoven in a natural way throughout the narrative.
	Price: £7.00 - [Order]
	Fukuinban (Gospel News) An attractively presented, four-page monthly magazine published by The Christian Newspaper. The front page has the verse for the month and a short article that shows how the verse relates to our everyday lives. The back page has a testimony by a Japanese Christian. The inside pages feature regular columns such as ‘From the Diary of a Christian Lawyer’. The magazine avoids preaching or pressurising and is suitable for seekers and believers alike. Many Japanese people here in the UK look forward to its arrival in their postbox every month.
	Price: £8.00 for an annual subscription including postage within the UK.  - [Order] Please contact us if you would like to receive a sample copy before ordering

4. Japanese Evangelistic Tracts

a) Tracts by Every Home for Christ and The New Life League
b) Tracts for children
c) Others

a) Tracts by Every Home for Christ and The New Life League
Short evangelistic leaflets attractively presented in an up-to-date style. These tracts do not aim to present a full gospel message, but try to make people think about their lives and realise that the Bible may have something relevant to say to them.

Kami e no rabusongu (Love Song to God) A short testimony by the singer Kume Sayuri who rose to the top of the charts with a hit single in 1980. Despite her success she felt a deep unease and lack of purpose in her life. Remembering how she had been to Sunday school as a child, she began to attend church and sensed God's presence there. One Sunday the preacher spoke about how there are two ways to live. One way is to make oneself the centre and to live according to one's own strength and abilities. The other way is to put God at the centre and to live each day in His strength and surrounded by His unchanging love. Aware of her own weaknesses and her emotional ups and downs, she gladly asked God to take control of her life and became a Christian. This led to a new sense of purpose and a new career as a Christian songwriter and performer. Now married with small children she also describes how her relationship with God helps her to cope with the challenges and stress of being a mother. This tract has no gospel outline or Bible quotes but is ideal for low-key evangelism for women.

Price: £0.20 - Out of Stock

Chotto mimiyorina ohanashi (Is there anything you can really trust in the world today?) An excellent short testimony by a Japanese businessman at Fuji Bank, who was brought up to believe that success was the most important thing in life. He pursued his career at the expense of both his family and those working with him. But the collapse of the Japanese economy revealed fundamental problems with the way that Fuji Bank had been conducting its business and he realised for the first time that even companies need some kind of moral and ethical base. He decided to read the Bible which one of his colleagues had previously given to him and was struck by Jesus’ words in John 14:6, ‘ I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.’ He decided to attend church to find out more. Through Jesus’ words in Mark 2:17, ‘ It is not the healthy who need a doctor but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners,’ he reflected on his self-centred lifestyle and realised that he was spiritually sick. But when he understood that Jesus had died on the cross so that even people like him could be saved, he shed tears of joy. Now he wants other people to experience God’s love too.

Price: £0.20 - [Order]

Honto ni kotae wa nai no ka (Is there really no answer?) A helpful tract for those who are struggling to find meaning in their lives. Where did I come from? What will happen when I die? Is there any meaning to life? Those who seriously seek to find answers to these questions may conclude that there is no meaning and may be driven to depression and suicide. As a result, many people decide just to get on with their lives without ever facing up to these issues. The Bible even voices these same questions in the Book of Ecclesiastes – ‘Meaningless! Meaningless!…Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless!’ But the Bible also provides an answer. In Genesis 1:1 we are told that ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.’ If you look around the room where you are sitting, you will probably find that everything has been placed there for a purpose by the person who designed the room. It is the same with God who created the world and those who live in it. It is only through meeting our Creator that we can discover the meaning of our existence and the purpose of our lives.

Price: £0.20 - [Order]

Bansho no tsugeru sekai (‘The Angelus’ by Jean-Francois Millet) The tract discusses this famous painting from the viewpoint of ‘Family, Work and Faith’. A hard-working couple stand in the fields at the end of the day with their heads bowed in prayer. Here we see the basis of family life as a husband and wife working together and supporting each other in the face of the trials and tribulations of daily life. We also see their acceptance and thankfulness for their work – even though it is hard and exhausting. It is a reminder that we should be thankful for our work at all times. But it is their faith in the one true God that supports both their relationship together and their attitude towards their work. Today there are many people who have a family and are successful in their work but still fail to find fulfilment and happiness. That is because they lack the relationship with God, which supports and gives meaning to our lives. Jesus said, ‘Man does not live by bread alone but by every word which proceeds from the mouth of God.’ This painting reminds us of that truth. The tract also contains a quotation from Matthew 6:31-33.

Price: £0.20 - [Order]

Kokoro no esute (Beauty treatment for the heart) We are surrounded by advertisements which tell us that we need to be beautiful if we are to be happy. But surely it is our hearts rather than our outward appearance that need to be transformed? Our hearts can be weighed down with regrets about the past and anxiety about the future. As we grow old we can worry about losing our youth and develop complexes about how people see us and about what we have achieved with our lives. We can begin to feel that we have no intrinsic value. But the Bible tells us that even though our outer nature (our physical bodies) is wasting away, our inner nature (our hearts) can be made new day by day. If we ask Jesus into our lives, he can change us from the inside. He can lift the burdens from our heavy hearts and fill us with new hope and joy. ‘Wisdom brightens a man’s face and changes its hard appearance.’ Ecclesiastes 8:1.

Price: £0.20 - [Order]

Watashi o kaeta ai (Transformed by love – Miura Ayako) A more substantial tract based on the testimony of the well-known novelist, Miura Ayako. Her friends were greatly surprised when they heard that she had become a Christian as she had always viewed Christians as pious and arrogant and viewed their faith as a Western religion. How could someone change so dramatically? She tells her story beginning with how she resigned her job as a schoolteacher following Japan’s defeat in the war, ashamed at having taught the children things that were fundamentally wrong. Soon afterwards she developed tuberculosis and spent the next thirteen years in and out of hospital, including seven years immobilised in a plaster cast. She was overwhelmed by a sense of the futility of life but her nihilistic view was challenged by the Christian faith of a childhood friend. Her journey to faith was a long one with many questions and barriers to be overcome but she was eventually baptised in her hospital bed. To explain the gospel message she quotes a passage from her well-known novel, Shiokari Pass, in which a travelling preacher speaks to the passing crowds on a street corner. He tells of our basic sinfulness and self-centredness and of how Jesus loved us enough to die for us so that we could be forgiven. Miura Ayako concludes the tract by describing how her life was transformed by this love and tells the reader that God wants them to experience this love too. The tract also contains a chronology of Miura Ayako’s life and a bibliography of her works.

Price: £0.40 - [Order]

b) Tracts for children

Iesusamatte shitteru? (Do you know about Jesus?) Suitable for children aged about 6-10 years. The central message is that Jesus is the only true God and that He died to open a way for us to go to heaven. In cartoon style, the first two pages show scenes from Jesus’ life. The tract opens out to focus on Jesus’ death and resurrection through the eyes of a young boy who enters a time slip and travels back in time two thousand years. In the final scene he realises that Jesus died for his sins so that he can go to heaven. Includes a simple prayer accepting Jesus’ forgiveness and inviting Him into my life.

Price: £0.15 - [Order]

Ore wa ookami da ze (I’m the big, bad wolf!) Suitable for very young children to encourage them to come to Sunday school to meet someone who loves and accepts them just as they are. A big bad wolf frightens the little pigs and spoils their games. But sitting by himself he realises that he doesn’t have any friends and he wonders why he always behaves in such a horrible way. One of the little pigs tells him that he was just the same but then he met someone who loved him and became his friend. He invites the wolf to come with him to church to meet that person. On the last page the happy wolf encourages the reader to do the same. The tract opens out to show pictures from Bible stories and the verse, ‘Let us love one another.’

Price: £0.10 - [Order]

c) Others

Naze, Iesusama? (Why Jesus? – Nicky Gumbel) Translated directly from the English, this tract differs from the others in that it presents a full gospel message and a prayer to accept Jesus into one’s life. For the majority of Japanese people with only a passing interest in Christianity, this is too much information at one time. But it is a useful tract for those who are already looking into Christianity and have begun to understand the basics of the gospel.

Price: £1.50 - [Order]

5. English Books about Japan

	Making Friends with Japanese by John Taylor and Hugh Trevor, OMF/ISCS Helpful insights on making friends and sharing your faith with Japanese people. Includes a brief outline of Japan’s history and religions and a section on how Japanese people view Christianity.
	Price: £1.00 - Out of Stock

	On Giants’ Shoulders by Patrick McElligott, WEC Publications Patrick’s autobiography describing his conversion in London’s East End and his thirty years as a missionary in Japan with CLC and WEC. A ‘must read’ for all those interested in mission work in Japan.
	Price: £7.99 - [Order]

The Unseen Face of Japan by David C. Lewis, Monarch Publications An in-depth study of Japanese society by a Christian anthropologist. Subjects covered include the influence of Buddhism and Shinto beliefs, the cult of the dead, the problems of purity and pollution, sin and shame and the ways in which the Japanese approach birth, illness, marriage and death. The author also considers ways of communicating the gospel message that are relevant to Japanese society and culture.

Price: £9.99 - [Order]

Sensei – The life story of Irene Webster-Smith by Russell T. Hitt, ICM Press The inspiring biography of the Irish JEB missionary who arrived in Japan in 1916 and spent her life working among homeless children and prostitutes. In her later years she worked with students and is well known in Japan as the founder of the Ochanomizu Christian Centre which today houses the headquarters of many Christian organisations and maintains a vibrant witness in the heart of Tokyo.

Price: £5.99 - [Order]

Overcoming Spiritual Barriers in Japan by K. Webb, NextChurch Resources When Christianity arrived in Japan 450 years ago, Japanese people were so attracted to the gospel that they chose torture and death rather than renounce their faith. But today many seem indifferent to the message of salvation. What changed? This book examines the invisible spiritual realities behind the 17th century persecution of Christians and the subsequent strongholds that were established in Japanese society that still hold people in spiritual bondage. Contains an insightful prayer guide with suggestions for how Christians can pray effectively for Japan.

Price: £2.00 - [Order]

	The Other Ninety-nine by Eric Gosden, Marshalls Paperbacks Although published in 1982, this brief history of Protestant missions in Japan is still an informative and insightful read.
	Price: £1.40 - [Order]

	Operation Japan Prayer Guide published by the Japan Evangelical Missionary Association. Fully revised and updated in 2005, this 100-page booklet contains key prayer needs and issues facing Japan as well as information on each prefecture. Highly recommended for both beginners and those who have prayed for Japan for many years - you will find a wealth of information here.
	Price: £2.00 - [Order]
	JCL Prayer Calendar 2008 A5-sized booklet containing wide-ranging general prayer information on Japan as well as specific prayer points for the work of JCL and our sister organisation in Japan, JEB.
	Price: no charge for deliveries within the UK, but contributions towards costs are welcome. - [Order]

	JCL News Magazine Published every 4-6 months, this magazine features articles about work among Japanese here in the UK as well as articles about mission work in Japan.
	Price: no charge for deliveries within the UK, but contributions towards costs are welcome. - [Order]

6. Japanese Gospel Music CDs

Japanese Gospel Music CDs from Hallelujah Music - Vol 2, Hallelujah & Vol 3, Hibike! (Ring out!) Hallelujah Music's vision is to bring about revival through praise. The band is led by Teppei Yamakawa, Youth Pastor at the JEB Nagao church, and represents a new style of Japanese gospel music. All original, live tracks, these two CDs will appeal to young people and those who enjoy gospel music. The words of the songs are biblically based and each track gives the Bible verses to which it refers. Vol 2, Hallelujah, contains a mix of lively numbers followed by quieter tracks. Vol. 3, Hibike!, is more rock-oriented. The words are on the inside cover of the CD (in Japanese). Tracks (all in Japanese): Volume 2: Ribaibaru o misete (Show us revival), Anata ga bokura no kami dakara (Because you are our God), Shu o shinjiyou (Let us trust the Lord), Abba chichi yo (Abba father), Watashi no sakazuki wa afurete iru (My cup is overflowing), Iesu sukui no kami (Jesus Saviour God), Yorokobi no abura (The oil of Joy), Izumi wa koko ni aru (The spring is here), Tada anata no megumi (Only your grace), Mou keshite hanarenarenai (Never will I leave you), Hareruya eikou no shu (Hallelujah glorious Lord), Iesu ai suru okata (Beloved Jesus), Sanbi o anata ni (Praises to You).

Price: £15.00 each - [Order]

	Vol 3: I love you Jesus, Mikuni ga kono chi ni (Your kingdom come), Itsu made mo (For ever), Sakebe kami no shori o (Cry out for victory), Hibike (Ring out), Dance in the River, Healing rain, Shu ni waraou (Let us smile to the Lord), Kami no ishi ni (In the image of God), Anata ni eikou ga (Glory to you), Kimi wa ai sareru tame umareta (You were born to be loved).
	Price: £15.00 each - [Order]

Updated Nov 2007