Major Online Christian Bookstore

Major Online Christian Bookstore Sets Precedence

Removes Numerous Non-Christian Books from its Website

NASHVILLE, TN, August 19, 2006 - LifeWay Christian Stores, one of the world's largest providers of Christian books and materials, has removed numerous books from its online Christian bookstore inventory.

And according to a top LifeWay representative, the decision is permanent. The books will not be reinstated on the website.

While many positive changes have taken place within the Christian bookstore industry over the years, despite the growing concerns of Christians and the information made available by discernment ministries nationwide, some of the major online Christian bookstores have been reluctant to remove books that are foreign to the essentials of orthodox Christianity.

But this is not the case with LifeWay Christian Stores; for it was only a matter of hours before 14 books were removed from LifeWay's inventory.

And LifeWay has pledged to work even harder to monitor its cyber-shelves, and provide solid Christian materials to the body of Christ.

After a lengthy discussion with a LifeWay representative on August 18, Bud Press, Director of Christian Research Service, is applauding LifeWay for their quick decision to remove the books.

"I am confident that LifeWay removed the books not because they felt pressured, but because they are concerned for the spiritual welfare of their customers," said Press.

Press, along with fellow researchers in numerous discernment ministries, has spent years researching books and materials in both walk-in and online Christian bookstores.

"Part of that research includes communicating with major online Christian bookstore presidents, reps, and distributors nationwide," said Press. "Once communication is established, we provide information to them on the non-Christian materials that have infiltrated their stores."

Press said that a growing number of Christians contact him on a regular basis, and share their concerns over what is being offered in both walk-in and online Christian bookstores.

"Their assistance is priceless and greatly appreciated," Press said. "They save us valuable time that can be spent on other research projects."

Press maintains that if other major online Christian bookstores, such as Christianbook.com, Spread The Word, and Parable.com would follow LifeWay's lead, there would be less and less non-Christian books being made available to the body of Christ.

"LifeWay Christian Stores set a big precedence by removing the books, and has set an example for other online Christian bookstores to follow," Press said. "I encourage Christians to contact LifeWay and express their appreciation."

"Both online and walk-in Christian bookstores need to take a serious look at what they are offering to the body of Christ, and jealously guard the spiritual welfare of their customers," said Press. "Those who are knowingly compromising need to repent and return to the One they claim to represent...Jesus Christ."

LifeWay Christian Stores is a division of the Southern Baptist Convention, and owns and operates 124 stores throughout the United States, as well as two of the largest Christian conference centers in the country. LifeWay customer representatives may be reached by calling toll-free 1-800-448-8032.

For further information on Christian Bookstores and the Christian Bookstore industry, refer to http://www.christianresearchservice.com/ChristianBookstores.htm .

Christian Research Service is a discernment ministry that provides information, documentation and referral on a wide variety of issues to individuals, companies, pastors, outreach ministries, and the Christian news media worldwide.