On a trip to the Holy Land, Rabbi Small is drawn into a deadly conflict between religious extremists in the New York Times–bestselling series. Retired millionaire Barney Berkowitz, from the small Massachusetts town of Barnard’s Crossing, invites Rabbi David Small to come to Israel and bar mitzvah him, as Berkowitz never went through the ceremony in his youth. On what should be a joyous occasion—and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Holy Land—the rabbi discovers danger lurking in every corner and a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the state of Israel.
An innocent American has been murdered and when the sleuthing rabbi begins his investigation, he finds the death may have been part of an international conspiracy fueled by religious radicals and an arms-smuggling scheme. Anyone, from a liberal Jewish-American professor to a young religious fundamentalist, could be a suspect—and the rabbi must rely on his Talmudic logic and daring chutzpah to untangle the mystery and prevent an even more deadly attack.
Becoming the Man You Were Created to Be Instead of Who the World Says You Are
AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
From a bestselling author and pastor, a straight-talk, no-nonsense guide to becoming the man God calls you to be.
We’ve all seen the headlines. Masculinity is in crisis. Men are lost. What’s the matter with men? We are confused about what masculinity is and what roles men play in our culture.
Manhood, says Joby Martin, is harder than ever because we have forgotten what true masculinity looks like. Real, Biblical manhood is not about driving big trucks, having the biggest guns, or hunting the biggest buck. (Though he’s a big fan of all of those, truth be told.) True men of God surrender themselves before the cross, serve and lead their families, put on the full armor of God, and stand guard against the lies that threaten to tear our churches and our culture apart.
In this book, Pastor Joby walks through what the Bible means when it says, ‘be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, and let all that you do be done in love’ (1 Corinthians 16:13). He guides readers through what scripture says about who men are, how they should act, and what it means to be a man in today’s culture, and he asks tough questions about how God calls men to respond.
Stand Firm and Act Like Men is a call for men to rediscover Biblical manhood in their churches and cities, and to love, serve, and support their families and one another.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“So there I was…”, the words that open this book, are probably my favorite words to come out of Joby’s mouth, because I know that what follows will be hilarious, insightful, and then he’ll somehow turn it around on me to make it deeply convicting. For a long time God has given Pastor Joby an incredible rapport with men. I’m glad to see him put that wisdom and challenge into a book. In an age when ‘manhood’ is one of the most confusing terms in our lexicon, Joby lays out a clear and compelling vision. They say men don’t read nearly as many books as women. I’m betting this one will be the exception. I predict you’ll read it and then give it to your sons and all your friends.”―J.D. Greear, Pastor, The Summit Church, Author, Everyday Revolutionary: How to Transcend the Culture War and Transform the World
“Every preacher needs a preacher, and I decided Pastor Joby Martin would be ‘my preacher’ years ago, not just because he is one of the best Bible teachers alive, but because he is a good man. And you are about to read what I believe might be his life message. Reality is undefeated: where men fulfill their callings everything flourishes, and where men do not everything burns. This is the best possible outlay of God’s calling for men to STAND FIRM, AND ACT LIKE MEN.”―Josh Howerton
“Where men embody the kind of masculinity Joby has mined from the scriptures here, humanity flourishes. Humanity descends into chaos, where males take cues from the world or softer, less biblical ideals. Joby has done an excellent job laying the groundwork for what it means to ‘act like men.’ He isn’t shaming or disparaging. He simply calls men to embrace and step into what God has given them, their unique strength for.”―Matt Chandler, Lead Pastor of The Village Church
“It’s obvious that God is doing something in the hearts of men today. There is a stirring and a returning to Jesus and the church across our nation. But with so much change in the church, what will they return to? In Stand Firm and Act Like Men, Joby paints a clear, passionate, and compelling vision to become the kinds of men we need in this hour. Both biblical and practical, this will equip men to follow Jesus well today.”―Jon Tyson, church.nyc, formingmen.com
“Joby challenges men to lead with courage, humility, and faith. This book doesn’t just call you out — it calls you up: for your family, your team, and the world. For that, I’m truly grateful.”―Tim Tebow, Author, Speaker, Founder of the Tim Tebow Foundation
“We live in a time when there is nothing but confusion about what it means to be a man. Joby in his new book Stand Firm and Act Like Men answers this question with biblical clarity, conviction and Gospel centered courage. This is not another cultural ideal – it is a reclamation of Biblical manhood that leads with humility, strength, and love. It’s timely, bold, and desperately needed.”―Dr. Mac Brunson, Pastor Valleydale Church
“Dazed and confused” was the name of a 1993 coming-of-age comedic film, but it also describes too many believers today regarding biblical manhood. God’s Word is the answer when confusion reigns, and my friend Joby Martin offers sage biblical wisdom for men (and women) in this book. Grounded in Scripture and aware of the extremes of our day (like overly passive/overly aggressive), Joby roots the strength of manhood in the gospel and the pursuit of being increasingly like Jesus. The clarity needed in a confused world can be found here.”―Ed Stetzer, dean, Talbot School of Theology
“Culture can’t decide what it wants from men. The same society that can’t even define what a woman is has the audacity to call masculinity ‘toxic’ one minute and then complain that men aren’t stepping up the next. Meanwhile, much of the modern church has told men—implicitly or explicitly—that to be a ‘good Christian,’ they need to act more like women. The result? Countless men who are disciplined, responsible, and willing to lead are left wondering what a man even is—and how to become one. In Stand Firm and Act Like Men, Joby cuts through the noise. He doesn’t rely on cultural fads, macho stereotypes, or ‘Red Pill’ ideology. Instead, he takes us straight to the Word of God. This book is a clear, unapologetic, and biblical vision of manhood. And here’s the truth: you can’t become what you don’t understand. Joby helps men understand—truly and deeply—what God designed them to be.”―Kyle Thompson, Founder, Undaunted.Life, Host, The Daily Blade
“I’ve been in ministry since 1987 and I can’t remember a time when the church and our nation needed tough and tender men of God more than right now. Thank God for this book! Joby writes like he preaches; with compassion, conviction and clarity. He embodies the message of this book in his everyday life as a man who stands firm on the gospel and the word of God. As “masculinity” has been distorted, weaponized and attacked in this generation, I pray that God will use “Stand Firm & Act Like Men” to renew a rich theology of manhood and revive a passion in the hearts of men to love, lead and serve their families, the church, our nation, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”―Dr. Clayton King, Evangelist, Teaching Pastor, Biltmore Church & Newspring Church, Author of Reborn, Stronger & Overcome
“I grew up in church. I have been married for over 25 years. I am the proud dad of 4 kids. It’s tempting to act like I have things figured out, but thankfully this book cuts right through that and reminds me what it truly means to be a man. Joby is funny, practical and biblical.”―Brian Mosley, President, RightNow Media
“If you’re a guy like me, trying to figure out how to follow Jesus, lead your family well, and not get lost in what the world says a man’s supposed to be, this book is exactly what you need. Joby Martin has been one of the biggest influences in my life when it comes to understanding what real, godly manhood looks like. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He shoots it straight, backs it with the Bible, and points everything back to Jesus. That’s what you’ll get in Stand Firm and Act Like Men, a solid, no-fluff guide to stepping up as the man God’s called you to be. This book will challenge you, encourage you, and probably kick you in the teeth a little, but in the best kind of way. It’ll make you look in the mirror, lay down your pride, and finally man up enough to admit that Jesus, not your talent, toughness, or titles, is what your family and your future really need. If you’re serious about leading strong and leaving a legacy worth following, do yourself a favor and read this. I can guarantee you if we as men will read this book, take it to heart, and chase after Jesus with everything in us, we can change the world one legacy at a time!”―Drew Parker, Country music singer and songwriter
“My friend Joby Martin is one of the great Kingdom leaders of our generation. He is also one of the greatest men I know, not because he leads one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in America or because he is an accomplished author with many accolades. He is one of the greatest men I know because of who he is. Joby is a real man—a man of integrity, tenacity, and humility. He is a man of honor. I can think of no one more qualified to write this much-needed book. The fabric of civilization is families; as the fathers go, so goes the family. While society sees men as a problem, God sees men as the solution. We need a revival of biblical masculinity in America. This book has the power to spark that revival in men, and it’s one that every man should read.”―Phil Hopper, Author and Lead Pastor of Abundant Life Church
“This book is one page after another of motivational wisdom. It reminds me of a creed that my spiritual grandfather displayed into his 80s when his body was winding down after a hard fought life: ‘This life ain’t about playing it safe or staying clean. It’s about charging hard, getting scarred up for the Kingdom, and sliding into heaven worn out, mud on your face, blood on your knuckles, and fire in your bones—shouting, ‘Holy S**t, Lord—what a ride!’ My friend Joby has written a book that calls out the best in me and other men. We all need it!”―Brian Tome, founder of Crossroads Church and Mancamp
“I am so thankful for Joby Martin’s new book Stand Firm and Act Like Men! With his characteristic loving directness, engaging humor, personal illustrations, and theological precision – Joby calls us up to biblical manhood. This is a book you will not only want to read and re-read, but one you will want to get into the hands of the men around you. I know I will!”―Dr. Bruce Frank, Lead Pastor of Biltmore Church in Western North Carolina and speaker on radio program, The Vertical Life
“Once again, Joby Martin has hit the mark. In a world where genuine biblical manhood has been obscured by goofy narcissistic definitions by some and canceled as toxic by others, Joby clears out the fog and points to reality that for too long has been hidden in plain sight.”―Larry Osborne, Pastor and Author, North Coast Church, CA
“Joby’s new book is truly a gift to us guys, and the potential impact reaches our spouse, kids, friends and co-workers as well. It’s filled with wit and wisdom providing an honest, clear and biblical picture of what true manhood looks like. Stand Firm and Act Like Men is an enjoyable read that packs a punch. A needed punch that is challenging and yet encouraging. Job’s new book offers a Kingdom perspective in a practical manner. You will love this book!”―Dan Reiland, Author, Leadership Coach, Husband, Dad and Grandfather
“In a world quick to declare masculinity in crisis, Pastor Joby Martin offers a powerful, biblically grounded antidote. Stand Firm and Act Like Men cuts through the confusion, revealing that true manhood isn’t about cultural stereotypes, but about surrendering to God, leading with love, and standing firm in faith. Through a clear and compelling walk through 1 Corinthians 16:13, he guides readers to understand who men are called to be, how they should act, and what it truly means to live as a man of God in today’s complex world. This book is an essential guide for any man seeking to understand and embody the strength, purpose, and calling God intends.”―Léonce B. Crump Jr, Author, Renovate and The Resilience Factor, Founder, United Church
“Joby Martin is a passionate pastor and compelling communicator who challenges men to think deeply, live boldly, and follow Jesus with courage. His voice is needed, and his heart for men as well as the next generation is clear in these pages.”―Doug Fields, Pastor, Author, & Co-Founder of Download Youth Ministry
An interfaith wedding, local politics, and a lethal hit-and-run case keep Rabbi Small busy in this mystery in the New York Times–bestselling series. Since becoming the rabbi at the synagogue in Barnard’s Crossing, Massachusetts, David Small has seen his congregation through a fair share of unholy bickering and corruption. So when millionaire Howard Magnuson is elected president of the synagogue, the rabbi isn’t surprised that Magnuson wants to bring corporate efficiency to the temple—at the expense of religious tradition. Conflict flares when Rabbi Small refuses, on the basis of temple rules, to officiate the interfaith wedding of Magnuson’s daughter to a non-Jewish Boston politician, and the new president calls for the rabbi’s dismissal.
When another player in Boston politics is killed in a hit-and-run accident and the police suspect a Jewish college student, Rabbi Small fears the undergrad might have been set up—and that Magnuson is involved. The young man’s innocence and the future of the temple depend on Rabbi Small solving the case with his signature wit and Judaic wisdom.
A Tiny Little Favor Peyton Banks Publication date: April 17th 2026 Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance
From USA Today bestselling author, Peyton Banks, comes a steamy rom com about second chances, accidental families, and the most unexpected proposal of all.
He was supposed to be a one-night stand… Now she’s asking him for baby number two.
Five years ago, Tachina Winston made one impulsive decision—a one-night stand with her former client, Vic Maxwell. The result? The world’s cutest little boy and an unconventional but surprisingly seamless co-parenting setup. No drama, no strings, no regrets.
But Tachina has a tiny little problem…
She wants another baby.
Dating apps? Disasters. Blind dates? Even worse. There’s only one man she trusts enough to do this with again: Vic.
Vic isn’t looking for love after a messy breakup. But when Tachina proposes her plan, he can’t deny it—he’s tempted.
And if he agrees, it will come with one condition: he wants to experience everything he missed before.
Easy, right?
Wrong.
Because soon, things get complicated. They’re having adult spend-the-night dates, sharing kisses that last too long, and stirring up feelings neither of them expected.
Then Vic’s ex returns wanting him back, they are forced to decide: was this just a favor with benefits… or the beginning of something real?
USA Today best selling author, Peyton Banks, is the alter ego of a city girl who is a romantic at heart. Her mornings consist of coffee and daydreaming up the next steamy romance book ideas. She loves spinning romantic tales of hot alpha males and the women they love. She currently resides with her husband and children in Cleveland, Ohio.
As he counsels a woman considering conversion to Judaism, Rabbi Small takes a break from murder mysteries to discuss the mysteries of his religion. In Conversations with Rabbi Small, the rabbi finds himself taking a well-deserved vacation at a Jewish retreat in the mountains, where he reads, plays cards, and furthers his studies, which have been languishing for too long. When the rabbi’s wife is called back to the city to deal with an illness in the family, the rabbi meets a curious young woman in the midst of a life-changing moment.
Joan is a gentile who is about to marry a Jewish man, and she is desperate for answers as she determines whether or not to convert to her betrothed’s religion. In Rabbi Small, she finds an ideal teacher. In a series of impassioned conversations, the rabbi guides her through the ancient mysteries and wonders of Judaism, giving guidance to both her and her husband-to-be. With humor and compassion, the rabbi shares the history, beliefs, and traditions that have linked Jewish people across the world for millennia.
Book Reviews by the Reluctant Retiree 