A dead faith inevitably reveals itself. In this article, Plummer lists five signs of a dead faith from the book of James. “Thus, James instructs us that there are two categories of faith—(1) faith that has works and is thus living and (2) faith that does not have works and is thus dead. Works and faith are not the same thing. Rather, works are produced by a genuine faith and are, therefore, evidence of it. In fact, James’s explicit language would even call into question my use above of the verb “produced.” Genuine faith has works. Works are inherent and organic to living, saving faith.”
I always enjoy looking through Kevin DeYoung’s top 10 books of any given year. Here are his top 10 books of 2025. “This list is not meant to assess the thousands of good books published in the past year. This is simply a list of the books—Christian and non-Christian, but all non-fiction—that I thought were the best in the past year. “Best” doesn’t mean I agreed with everything in them; it means I found these books—all published in 2025—a strong combination of thoughtful, useful, helpful, insightful, and challenging. Undoubtedly, the list each year reflects my own interests and tends to be heavy on history and theology.”
On a similar note, the TGC staff listed out their book awards as well. “The Gospel Coalition’s annual book awards offer help identifying “sound theological works” for your enrichment. We work hard to identify some of the best evangelical books published each year. This announcement is the culmination of months of hard work by a big team of book lovers. We receive nominations from publishers in 11 categories. Then our editors work together to recommend finalists in each category. Finally, a panel of judges reads each one carefully before casting their votes.”
“You need to read. Renounce as much as you will all light literature, but study as much as possible sound theological works, especially the Puritanic writers, and expositions of the Bible. We are quite persuaded that the very best way for you to be spending your leisure, is to be either reading or praying.” Spurgeon
Erik reminds young men, really all of us, that we must discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. “A Christian’s life of discipline mostly looks mundane and unimpressive. We devote ourselves to the word, worship, prayer, proclamation, fellowship, service, suffering, giving, missions, and other basic means of grace that lead to growing intimacy with God and kingdom fruitfulness. Apart from such seemingly mundane discipline, however, we will drift toward despair rather than deeper delight.“
Randy Alcorn shares an excerpt from J. I. Packer’s Knowing God that describes what it means to have the Christmas spirit. It’s a powerful quote. Here’s a taste: “The Christmas spirit does not shine out in the Christian snob. For the Christmas spirit is the spirit of those who, like their Master, live their whole lives on the principle of making themselves poor–spending and being spent–to enrich their fellow humans, giving time, trouble, care and concern, to do good to others–and not just their own friends–in whatever way there seems need.”
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what I’ve been reading over the past few months. I’ve included a brief description of each book from Amazon to give you a taste of what they’re about. Perhaps one of these titles will catch your interest and motivate you to add it to your cart! Before you start scrolling, let me mention some things about these books:
I don’t agree with every point in every book I read.
I’ve found all of these books to be very helpful.
I’ve found some of these books to be more helpful than others.
I’ve listed these books in the order that I read them.
“Done right, a talk can electrify a room and transform an audience’s worldview; it can be more powerful than anything in written form. This “invaluable guide” (PublishersWeekly) explains how the miracle of powerful public speaking is achieved, and equips you to give it your best shot. There is no set formula, but there are tools that can empower any speaker.
Since taking over TED in 2001, Chris Anderson has worked with all the TED speakers who have inspired us the most, and here he shares insights from such favorites as Sir Ken Robinson, Salman Khan, Monica Lewinsky, and more— everything from how to craft your talk’s content to how you can be most effective on stage.”
“Many pastors feel torn between preaching and leading, but both responsibilities are essential. Without faithful exposition of Scripture, churches risk straying theologically. Without strong leadership, teaching lacks spiritual zeal. How can pastors find balance and steward their calling effectively?
In The Pastor as Leader, John Currie equips pastors to be men of God who competently carry out their purpose: leading God’s people through the preaching of God’s word. Recognizing a common disconnect between the roles of preaching and leadership, Currie offers foundational principles for pastoring “under Christ’s appointment, conformed to Christ’s character, which exemplifies and implements Christ’s wisdom, preached from Christ’s word.” By integrating two primary roles of the pastorate, readers will learn how to faithfully and confidently proclaim the Scriptures as they communicate biblical vision and strategy for the church’s mission.”
“Pastoral leadership is the process where, for the glory of God, a man of God, appointed by the Son of God and empowered by the Spirit of God, proclaims the Word of God so that the people of God are equipped to move forward into the purposes of God together.” John Currie
“We don’t like to admit it, but anyone who honestly evaluates the church’s life and outlook will understand that these are not good days for evangelicalism. We’ve achieved success, but in a worldly sort of way–big numbers, big budgets, and big outreaches. Yet church attendance is actually down and alleged “born again” believers do not differ significantly in their worldview from their neighbors. Why? We have forgotten our theology and, consciously or not, have pursued the wisdom of the world, accepted its “doctrines,” and utilized its methods.
Pastor James Montgomery Boice believed that our ignorance of God and neglect of the gospel of grace is the root of the problem. Here he identifies what’s happening within the church and explains how the five doctrinal truths that transformed the world during the Reformation not only offer the solution but can shape a renewal today.
By offering people what they desperately lack–the Word of God and salvation through Christ–rather than giving them an imitation of what they already have, we will see Christianity thrive once again. And in holding fervently to the foundational truths of the gospel, we will know the power of spiritual renewal in our churches.”
Imagine a well-read man. Do you see a machine dressed in tweed gorging on information? This book is not about becoming that kind of reader.
The well-read man wakes up and consults with Moses on the way to work. He sips his coffee and ponders the wisdom of Hannibal’s elephants crossing the Alps. He turns furrowed-browed philosophers upside down and takes their lunch money. He changes his oil and deliberates with Peter Drucker about effective management practices. He regales his wife with the tale of Monet’s water lilies in the Gardens at Giverny. He sings with Sandra Boynton as his toddlers’ eyes grow heavy. This book is about becoming that man. Be as human as you can be. Learn how to read a book.
“The hardcover box set of C. S. Lewis’s classic fantasy series The Chronicles of Narnia, with cover art by three-time Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator David Wiesner and the full black-and-white original interior art by Pauline Baynes.
Journeys into magical realms, battles between good and evil, talking creatures, and more, await readers of all ages in The Chronicles of Narnia.
This timeless box set includes all seven titles—The Magician’s Nephew; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe;The Horse and His Boy; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; and The Last Battle—with interior black-and-white art by Pauline Baynes, the original illustrator.”
“Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” C.S. Lewis
A Concise and Systematic Exploration of the Doctrine of Predestination. . . .
How can God choose to save some and eternally punish others? What about my loved ones who are not believers? For many, contemplating predestination brings about fear, trepidation, controversy, and emotional exhaustion, making it a difficult topic to study―let alone view as a blessing.
This addition to the Short Studies in Systematic Theology series carefully examines God’s word to answer 15 commonly asked questions regarding the doctrines of election and reprobation. With helpful visuals, key definitions, answer summaries, and prayer responses, this concise guide is perfect for all believers who want to discover and delight in what God has revealed throughout Scripture. Readers will not only learn how God saves his people from their sins, but will be stirred to respond to him in worship.”
“In 40 Questions About Calvinism, church historian Shawn Wright tackles many issues about the theological system known as Calvinism. Taking an irenic approach, Wright explains the key doctrines while also contrasting them with Arminianism. The accessible format allows readers to easily look up topics they’re most interested in, including:
What is the difference between Calvinism and the Reformed tradition?
Does God love all people?
What is predestination?
Did Jesus die for the sins of the whole world?
Can people resist the Holy Spirit?
Do Calvinists practice evangelism and missions?
For Calvinists or those seeking to understand Calvinism better, 40 Questions About Calvinism helps readers understand the key terms, issues, and debates of this highly influential theological viewpoint.”
“The actual life and teaching of Jacobus Arminius are often unknown or misunderstood. Answers beyond a basic caricature can be elusive. In 40 Questions About Arminianism, however, J. Matthew Pinson combines solid historical research with biblical and doctrinal precision to address the following questions and more:
Who was Jacobus Arminius?
How has the church interpreted God’s desire that everyone be saved?
How is Arminianism different from Calvinism?
Can one be both Reformed and Arminian?
What is “universal enabling grace”?
What do Arminians mean by “free will”?
Do Arminians believe that God predestines individuals to salvation?
Is it possible for a Christian to apostatize?
An accessible question-and-answer format helps readers pursue the issues that interest them most, with additional resources available at 40questions.net. Questins regarding historical backgrounds and the Bible encourage a broad understanding of historic and contemporary Arminianism.”
In January, I began a Sunday evening teaching series on the Ten Commandments titled “An Introduction to Christian Ethics.” Here’s a look at the resources I’ve used.
And God spoke all these words, saying, ‘I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Exodus 20:1-2
“This book serves as an introduction to the field of biblical ethics, a subcategory of the discipline of moral theology. It differs from moral philosophy in that biblical ethics is distinctively Christian, and it is more specific than Christian ethics proper because it specifically focuses upon the application of the moral law — as it is revealed in Scripture — to daily living.
Introduction to Biblical Ethics explains the nature, relevancy, coherency, and structure of the moral law as revealed throughout the Bible. In addition to covering the foundational elements of biblical ethics, major issues investigated in this volume include: different types of law in Scripture, the relationship between the law and the gospel, and issues related to the prospect of conflicting moral absolutes.
Additionally, after a discussion of ethical methodology, and using the Ten Commandments as a moral rubric, author David W. Jones explores the place of the moral law in the lives of believers. In the final chapters, the events surrounding the giving of the Decalogue are surveyed, and the application of each of the Ten Commandments to Christian living is explored.”
“The Ten Commandments are an expression of God’s eternal character and having binding force today. Here Philip Ryken offers basic principles for interpreting and applying them—explaining them one by one, illustrating each with a biblical account, and relating each to the preson and redemptive work of Jesus Christ.”
Philip Ryken offers basic principles for interpreting and applying the Ten Commandments―explaining each one, illustrating each with a biblical account, and relating each to the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
This is a book to be read and savored. Readers will find themselves examining their own lives, changing their ways, and delighting in newfound grace.”
“In this book Thomas Watson continues his exposition of the Shorter Catechism drawn up by the Westminster Assembly. Watson was one of the most popular preachers in London during the Puritan era. His writings are characterized by clarity, raciness and spiritual richness. The series of three volumes, of which this is the second, makes an ideal introduction to Puritan literature.
There are few matters about which the Puritans differ more from present-day Christians than in their assessment of the importance of the ten commandments. The commandments, they held, are the first thing in Christianity which the natural man needs to be taught and they should be the daily concern of the Christian to the last.
In The Ten Commandments Watson examines the moral law as a whole as well as bringing out the meaning and force of each particular commandment. In view of the important function of the law in Christian life and evangelism this is a most valuable volume.”
“Are the 10 Commandments still relevant today? Do they still apply? Which ones? What do they mean in light of God’s mercy revealed in Jesus?
Highlighting the timelessness and goodness of God’s commands, pastor Kevin DeYoung delivers critical truth about the 10 Commandments as he makes clear what they are, why we should know them, and how to apply them. This book will help you understand, obey, and delight in God’s law―commandments that expose our sinfulness and reveal the glories of God’s grace to us in Christ.”
“If God has spoken, then the highest human aspiration must be to hear what the Creator has said. God has indeed spoken, through the Ten Commandments, and Al Mohler explores this revelation of God and the implications for His people. The promise is to hear, to obey, and to live. These “Ten Words” tell us who God is and what His people should look like.
Mohler is a respected voice on the state of our culture (and the church) today. The Ten Commandments speak to current issues today such as the exclusivity of the Christian God, the essence of worship, capital punishment, just war, business ethics and the postmodern definition of truth.”
“In this book, I urge readers not to side with either tendency. The point of Christian ethics is not to be as liberal as we can be, or as conservative. It is, rather, to be as biblical as we can be. So this book will seem to be more liberal than the majority on some issues and more conservative on others. God’s Word has a way of surprising us, of not fitting into our prearranged categories.
Jesus rebuked both the conservative Pharisees and the liberal Sadduccees; Paul rebuked both legalists and libertines. Understanding God’s will rarely means falling into lockstep with some popular ideology. We need to think as part of a community, listening to our brothers and sisters, but we also need the courage to step aside from the crowd when God’s Word directs us in that way.”
“If books are among our friends, we ought to apply similar standards to them that we apply to our flesh-and-blood friends. We should want to choose them wisely and well and hope that we will be the better for their companionship.” Doug Wilson
In this blog post, I will share my ten favorite reads from 2024, listed in no particular order. Since this was my first year serving as a senior pastor of a church, many of the books I mention are related to pastoral ministry—yes, I’ve been learning on the fly! Additionally, because I’ve been getting accustomed to preaching and teaching three to four times a week, most of the books I mention are short and easy reads.
After I share my favorite reads, I’ll provide links to other people’s favorite books of 2024. My list will include titles published in various years, with descriptions taken from Amazon. Other people’s lists will typically focus on books published in 2024.
Overall, you should discover some great books to read in 2025. If you order now, you can likely receive many of them before Christmas!
Nearly 25% of American Christians do not regularly attend church in person (Pew Research, 2023). How can we recapture the duty and delight of public worship?
Public worship is not simply something we should do; it is something we should love. In the newest Puritan Treasure for Today, David Clarkson helps believers glorify God by enjoying the privilege and duty of the corporate assembly.
Edited and updated for modern readers by Pastor Jonathan Cruse, this Puritan classic will teach you about: 1) The Primacy of Public Worship, 2) Profiting from Public Worship, and 3) Hearing the Word.
Read this book and learn to prize the ordinary means of grace as God’s precious gifts to His people.
In this biography Alex DiPrima paints a fresh portrait of Charles Haddon Spurgeon—the most well-known minster of the gospel in the nineteenth century. As DiPrima traces Spurgeon’s life from the famous “boy preacher of the fens” to the mature pastor of later years, readers will marvel at his extraordinary speaking abilities, his genius for administration, and his massive global influence, which set him apart as a leader of rare brilliance. Yet by presenting Spurgeon in his social, historical, and religious contexts, DiPrima helps us comprehend the whole of Spurgeon’s ministry in metropolitan London. Combining academic expertise with popular presentation, this short biography of the famed Prince of Preachers will be the go-to introduction on Spurgeon for years to come.
What does a community that testifies to God’s power look like? God’s people are called to a togetherness and commitment that transcends all natural boundaries―whether ethnic, generational, or economic. But such a community can be enjoyed only when it relies on the power of God in the gospel.
In The Compelling Community, pastors Mark Dever and Jamie Dunlop cast a captivating vision for authentic fellowship in the local church that goes beyond small groups. Full of biblical principles and practical advice, this book will help pastors lead their congregations toward the kind of community that glorifies God, edifies his people, and attracts the lost.
Leadership Principles from a Renowned Agent of Change
Cultures and organizations do not change without strong leadership. While many leadership books focus on management or administration, the central focus of The Conviction to Lead is on changing minds. Dr. Mohler was the driving force behind the transformation of Southern Seminary from a liberal institution of waning influence to a thriving evangelical seminary at the heart of the Southern Baptist Convention. Since then he has been one of the most prominent voices in evangelicalism, fighting for Christian principles and challenging secular culture.
Using his own experiences and examples from history, Dr. Mohler demonstrates that real leadership is a transferring of conviction to others, affecting their actions, motivations, intuition, and commitment. This practical guide walks the reader through what a leader needs to know, do, and be in order to affect change.
The reality of God’s ultimate punishment is central to the gospel. Only by facing sin’s devastation can believers fully grasp the beauty of their salvation and help unbelievers confront their need for forgiveness. Unfortunately, many Christians and Bible scholars neglect God’s final judgment.
In his book The Justice and Goodness of God, theologian Thomas Schreiner offers a comprehensive, biblical analysis of eternal destruction. Explaining that “final judgment doesn’t contradict God’s goodness but verifies and displays it,” he examines themes of sin, death, and redemption in the New Testament and other passages of Scripture. With helpful personal and theological application, this brief guide helps readers see how God’s judgment is anchored in his holiness, justice, and righteousness. Readers will see that God’s judgment isn’t bad news but good news. Life doesn’t make sense without it, and salvation shines brighter against the backdrop of God’s judgment.
Convinced that knowing the Word of God is fundamental to preaching, John Stott here presents brief studies of five New Testament metaphors that characterize preachers: steward, herald, witness, father, and servant. In the course of these five studies, Stott discusses the message and authority of preachers, the character of their proclamation, the vital necessity of their own experience of the gospel, and their motives and moral qualities, particularly humility, gentleness, and love.
A biblically faithful portrayal of what preachers are supposed to be emerges from Stott’s reflections —as he says, “a portrait painted by the hand of God himself on the broad canvas of the New Testament.”
Thomas Chalmers wrote that Owen’s book on Spiritual-Mindedness holds ‘a distinguished rank among the voluminous writings of this celebrated author’. For him three features made it very special: -The force with which it applies truth to the conscience. -The way Owen plumbs the depths of Christian experience as a skillful physician of the soul. -The uncovering of the secrets of the mind and heart so that the true spiritual state of the reader is discovered. This book began life as a collection of meditations on Romans 8:6, which were written for the author’s own benefit during a time of illness. Alarmed by the subtle power the world exercises over the mind, Owen shows us how to really live by raising our thoughts above all earthly objects and setting them on ‘things above, where Christ is’ (Col. 3:1) A favorite book of William Wilberforce, it contains some passages which are not surpassed in all of Owen’s writings. It comes from the pen of a tender-hearted pastor whose only purpose is to encourage the believer in the ongoing battle against sin. So if you feel overwhelmed by the power of worldliness then this is definitely the book for you!
With advancements in internet technology, people can get instant answers to just about any of their questions, connect long distance with family and friends, and stay informed with events around the world in real time.
In Digital Liturgies, tech-realist Samuel D. James examines the connection between patterns in technology and human desires. Everyone longs for a glimpse of heaven; James argues they are just looking for it in the wrong place―the internet.
This accessible book exposes 5 “digital liturgies” that prohibit people from contemplating big truths, accepting the uncomfortable, and acknowledging God as their Creator. It then calls readers to live faithfully before Christ, finding wisdom through Scripture and rest in God’s perfect design.
Today’s pastoral world is packed with books, conferences, and seminars teaching you different techniques for being an all-star pastor, growing your church quickly, and changing the world. But the key to true success is much harder and much simpler. Pastors are called to be faithful, to have exemplary character, and to love Jesus. Without faithfulness, their ministry ends up harming others rather than helping them. Churches need pastors with sound doctrine and a sound life.
Character Matters was written to help you slow down, cut through the noise and distractions, and focus on what matters—the fruit of the Spirit. Each chapter is a guided, biblical meditation on one aspect of each piece of the fruit of the Spirit. As you reflect and focus on the simple things that matter, you’ll see your heart change and your ministry follow, slowly, surely, and by the power of the Spirit.
Dr. Yancey Arrington says the reason many preachers don’t connect with their congregants isn’t because they haven’t thought through the message, but because they haven’t felt through it. In this practical guide for preachers of churches big and small, Arrington offers an innovative and effective paradigm based on his years of coaching preachers that brings the best to bear in both the ‘who’ and ‘how’ of the preaching event. Be prepared to better preach in a way that moves people!
Here’s a behind-the-scenes glance at the books I’ve read since April. (I usually post an On My Shelf blog every three months, but I’ve been slacking.) I’ve added a brief book description from Amazon to give you a taste of each book. Perhaps one of these books will garner your attention and compel you to add it to your cart! But let me mention a few things before you start scrolling:
I don’t agree with everything in every book I read
I’ve found all of these books helpful
I’ve found some of these books more helpful than others
In Pastor, Jesus Is Enough, Jeremy Writebol invites pastors to hear the words of the risen Jesus in the seven letters within Revelation 2–3:
Pastors love Jesus most
Pastors suffer
Pastors teach and tell the truth
Pastors become like Jesus
Pastors abide in Jesus
Pastors find their value in Jesus
Pastors repent
The exhortations in Revelation 2–3 are directed to churches. But they also exhort pastors. In these letters, Jesus draws near to pastors―whether hurting or straying―and reminds them of his sufficiency. In these warnings and promises, Jesus has hard words for pastors. But they are words of life. Most of all, Jesus urges pastors to keep their focus on him. Being enough is exhausting. But pastor, the good news is that you cannot be enough. Because only Jesus is enough.
What does a community that testifies to God’s power look like? God’s people are called to a togetherness and commitment that transcends all natural boundaries―whether ethnic, generational, or economic. But such a community can be enjoyed only when it relies on the power of God in the gospel.
In The Compelling Community, pastors Mark Dever and Jamie Dunlop cast a captivating vision for authentic fellowship in the local church that goes beyond small groups. Full of biblical principles and practical advice, this book will help pastors lead their congregations toward the kind of community that glorifies God, edifies his people, and attracts the lost.
America’s Religious History is an up-to-date, narrative-based introduction to the unique role of faith in American history. Moving beyond present-day polemics to understand the challenges and nuances of our religious past, leading historian Thomas S. Kidd interweaves religious history and key events from the larger story of American history, including:
The Great Awakening
The American Revolution
Slavery and the Civil War
Civil rights and church-state controversy
Immigration, religious diversity, and the culture wars
Useful for both classroom and personal study, America’s Religious History provides a balanced, authoritative assessment of how faith has shaped American life and politics.
Imagine . . . an interconnected group of people who entrust themselves to each other. You can speak of your pain, and someone responds with compassion and prayer. You can speak of your joys, and someone rejoices with you. You can ask for help with sinful struggles, and someone prays with you.
The goal of this book is that these meaningful relationships will become a natural part of daily life in your church. With short chapters and discussion questions meant to be read in a group setting, Ed Welch guides small groups through eight lessons that show what it looks like when ordinary, needy people care for other ordinary, needy people in everyday life.
Will Jesus’s return be preceded by a single world government? Will every person have a government-issued ID or mark? Does Christ return once or twice? Will believers go through a Great Tribulation? Will there be a literal battle of Armageddon? Does it even matter what we believe about future events?
Biblical prophecies about the end times have confused, confounded, and even divided God’s people for centuries. But the reason Scripture gives us hints about the future is to provide the encouragement we need to endure the present, confident that God keeps his promises.
In this balanced look at four major views of the end times, bestselling author Bryan Chapell explains the primary ways Christians have interpreted biblical prophecy about the last days, not so that we might pick a hill to die on but so that we can cling to what unites us in Christ. No matter what end times view we find most compelling, in God’s plans we can find strength for today and hope for tomorrow.
How we get reliable guidance is always a hot topic for Christians. Should we wait for a personal ‘word’ from the Lord, perhaps delivered by some mysterious process? Does God have anything to say about the daily matters that concern his people? Can the Bible be involved in our understanding the will of God for our lives, considering that it was written when so much that is familiar to us was not dreamt of? Perhaps most importantly of all, the dangers of personal decision and guidance without considering our relationship with others, particularly the believing community, are raised. Tim Chester addresses the issues and provides clear, thoughtful biblical answers. Reflections on each section and a final decision-making checklist make this a truly practical and readable guide.
What’s the big deal about baptism? Jesus commands his disciples to be baptized, and it’s a glorious picture of a person’s union with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Still, many Christians feel unclear about the topic, having more questions than answers. This short work provides a biblical explanation of baptism. What is it? Who should be baptized? Why is it required for church membership? And how should churches practice baptism?
Thomas Chalmers wrote that Owen’s book on Spiritual-Mindedness holds ‘a distinguished rank among the voluminous writings of this celebrated author’. For him three features made it very special: -The force with which it applies truth to the conscience. -The way Owen plumbs the depths of Christian experience as a skillful physician of the soul. -The uncovering of the secrets of the mind and heart so that the true spiritual state of the reader is discovered. This book began life as a collection of meditations on Romans 8:6, which were written for the author’s own benefit during a time of illness. Alarmed by the subtle power the world exercises over the mind, Owen shows us how to really live by raising our thoughts above all earthly objects and setting them on ‘things above, where Christ is’ (Col. 3:1) A favorite book of William Wilberforce, it contains some passages which are not surpassed in all of Owen’s writings. It comes from the pen of a tender-hearted pastor whose only purpose is to encourage the believer in the ongoing battle against sin. So if you feel overwhelmed by the power of worldliness then this is definitely the book for you!
The world has never been more distracting—joy has never been more possible.
You live with a massive amount of distraction:
desperate headlines
smartphone scrolling
an endless to-do list
Not to mention the nagging questions of your heart:
Am I making the right decision?
Am I with the right person?
Will my past mistakes keep me from my best future?
Through the pithy and inspiring storytelling that has endeared him to millions, New York Times bestselling author Bob Goff invites you to laugh with more gusto, dream with more confidence, and love with more intention in this disarming call to live Undistracted. Bob’s stories are like the rumble strips on the road that make you suddenly alert to how far you have drifted from your lane. From visiting friends in San Quentin to accidentally getting into a stalker’s car at the airport to establishing Uganda’s first space program, Bob shows you the way back to an audaciously attentive life. Your undistracted life is an adventure waiting to happen. What stories will you live with undistracted purpose and unstoppable joy?
Poverty is much more than simply a lack of material resources, and it takes much more than donations and handouts to solve it. When Helping Hurts shows how some alleviation efforts, failing to consider the complexities of poverty, have actually (and unintentionally) done more harm than good.
But it looks ahead. It encourages us to see the dignity in everyone, to empower the materially poor, and to know that we are all uniquely needy—and that God in the gospel is reconciling all things to himself.
Focusing on both North American and Majority World contexts, When Helping Hurts provides proven strategies for effective poverty alleviation, catalyzing the idea that sustainable change comes not from the outside in, but from the inside out.
Chosen by God by Dr. R. C. Sproul is a contemporary classic on predestination, a doctrine that isn’t just for Calvinists. It is a doctrine for all biblical Christians. In this updated and expanded edition of Chosen by God, Sproul shows that the doctrine of predestination doesn’t create a whimsical or spiteful picture of God, but rather paints a portrait of a loving God who provides redemption for radically corrupt humans.
We choose God because he has opened our eyes to see his beauty; we love him because he first loved us. There is mystery in God’s ways, but not contradiction.
Pastor, it’s time to turn down the noise and focus on what matters.
Today’s pastoral world is packed with books, conferences, and seminars teaching you different techniques for being an all-star pastor, growing your church quickly, and changing the world. But the key to true success is much harder and much simpler. Pastors are called to be faithful, to have exemplary character, and to love Jesus. Without faithfulness, their ministry ends up harming others rather than helping them. Churches need pastors with sound doctrine and a sound life.
Character Matters was written to help you slow down, cut through the noise and distractions, and focus on what matters—the fruit of the Spirit. Each chapter is a guided, biblical meditation on one aspect of each piece of the fruit of the Spirit. As you reflect and focus on the simple things that matter, you’ll see your heart change and your ministry follow, slowly, surely, and by the power of the Spirit.
“In this book, Alex DiPrima has produced what many others have failed to deliver: a one-volume biography of Spurgeon that tells the story with power, insight, and due recognition of his historical significance.”
—R. Albert Mohler Jr., president, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Alex DiPrima paints a fresh portrait of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the most well-known gospel minister of the nineteenth century. By providing social, historical, and religious context, DiPrima helps us comprehend the scope of Spurgeon’s ministry in London. Combining academic expertise with popular presentation, this short biography of the famed Prince of Preachers will be the go-to introduction to Spurgeon for years to come.
How to build a culture of truly effective gospel-sharing in your church.
Your church’s sermons often include a call to evangelize. You’ve held evangelism training events. You give out invites to your Christmas and Easter services. So… where are all the new Christians? Is your church actually reaching the lost with the gospel?
For many of us, despite having the best intentions our churches struggle to reach out with the gospel effectively. J.A. Medders and Doug Logan Jr. have decades of experience in leading churches and mentoring pastors, and here they outline six principles for cultivating a genuine evangelistic culture throughout your church.
Includes case studies from a variety of different cultures and contexts to give you practical ideas for implementing these six principles.
How deeply have leftist billionaires infiltrated America’s churches?
In Shepherds for Sale, Megan Basham of the Daily Wire documents how progressive powerbrokers —from George Soros, to the founder of eBay, to former members of the Obama administration— set out to change the American church. Their goal: to co-opt evangelicals for political purposes. She exposes:
The left-wing billionaires, foundations, and think tanks that deliberately target Christian media, universities, megachurches, nonprofits, and even entire denominations
The left-wing billionaires, foundations, and think tanks that deliberately target Christian media, universities, megachurches, nonprofits, and even entire denominations
The celebrity megachurch pastor who secretly encouraged a group of pastors to change their views on sexuality
The revered Presbyterian theologian who backed a congregation rebelling against his own denomination
These are just a glimpse into the compromises and astroturf campaigns Basham uncovers. Many evangelical leaders are pushing their members to “whisper” about sexual sins, reconsider the importance of abortion, lament the effects of climate change, and repent of “perpetuating systemic racism.” And in exchange for toeing a left-wing line, many of those church leaders and institutions have received cash, career jumps, prestige, and praise. Basham brings the receipts, and names names.
A rigorously reported exposé, Shepherds for Sale is a warning of what happens when the church trusts the world’s wisdom instead of Scripture.
Commentaries on the Sermon on the Mount
Back in August, I began a sermon series on Matthew 5-7, The Sermon on the Mount. Here are some of the commentaries I am using:
A spiritual classic, this detailed and comprehensive study by one of the greatest expository preachers of our time explains Christ’s teaching in the Sermon on the Mount and incisively applies it to the Christian life.
With characteristic vigor and emotional vitality Dr. Lloyd-Jones presents a brilliant and detailed exposition of one of the best known but most frequently misunderstood passages of Scripture. Here is a comprehensive and exhaustive study of our Lord’s words as recorded in Matthew chapter five. This beautiful portion of the Sermon on the Mount is carefully analysed, its contents outlined and thoughtfully arranged, and vastly rich and abundant truths are gleaned for the reader’s spiritual nurture.
The author brought a wealth of devoted study as well as a profound spiritual appreciation to the work of interpreting this greatest address of our delightful experience in meditation. It presents depth of thought in simple language and beauty of style and contains a veritable thesaurus of spiritual truths drawn from the entire Bible.
Matthew 5-7, popularly known as the Sermon on the Mount, has been described as “the essence of Christianity” and inspired many commentaries. However, New Testament professor Charles Quarles believes a fair number of those volumes either present Christ’s sermon as containing an impossible spiritual ethic or instead dilute its message so much that hardly any ethical challenge remains. Also concerning, a recent Gallup poll indicated only onethird of American adults recognize Jesus as the source of this teaching that has often inspired people who do not even embrace evangelical Christianity.
Quarles’ new analysis, part of the New American Commentary Studies in Bible & Theology series, aims to fill the gap between these extremes by dealing with the important questions of whether believers can live by the Sermon on the Mount today, and, if so, how. Looking at the Beatitudes, what it means to be salt and light, and the demand for superior righteousness, he writes to restore this crucial section of our Lord’s teaching to its proper place in His church.
The Beatitudes, written by Thomas Watson, is an exposition of Matthew 5:1-12. Thomas Watson was a prominent Nonconformist Puritan and religious author. Watson was born and raised in England and was a popular preacher until the Restoration. He is now best remembered for his many popular Christian books such as A Body of Divinity, The Godly Man’s Picture, and The Doctrine of Repentance.
The three chapters of Matthew known as the Sermon on the Mount contain truths so rich and powerful that even a lifetime of study could not exhaust their depths. For centuries, Jesus’s majestic portrait of the kingdom of heaven and his unparalleled instructions for godliness have captivated Christians and non-Christians alike. In this classic commentary, now revised with a fresh look and ESV Bible references, seasoned pastor R. Kent Hughes guides readers through this glorious portion of the Bible with exegetical precision, expositional clarity, and practical sensitivity. Whether used by preachers, small group leaders, or individual laypersons, this resource will prove invaluable for illuminating the Sermon on the Mount’s enduring power to enliven hearts and transform minds.
The Old Testament looked forward to the final King of kings who would bring everlasting salvation and peace. In his Gospel, Matthew demonstrates that Jesus Christ is that King, perfect in His eternal glory and majesty. As the King’s ambassadors, Christians today will find in Matthew great motivation for heartfelt worship and service.
Join John MacArthur as he explains each verse of Matthew 1–7 in a way that is both doctrinally precise and intensely practical. Taking into account the cultural, theological, and Old Testament contexts of each passage, MacArthur tackles interpretive challenges and fairly evaluates differing views, giving the reader confidence in his conclusions.
The MacArthur New Testament Commentary series comes from the experience, wisdom, and insight of one of the most trusted ministry leaders and Bible scholars of our day. Each volume was written to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, dealing thoroughly with every key phrase and word in the Scripture without being unnecessarily technical. This commentary will help to give a better, fuller, richer understanding of God’s Word, while challenging the reader to a vibrant personal spiritual walk.
Sermons on the Beatitudes
I began my sermon series on the Sermon on the Mount with a mini-series on the Beatitudes. I have attached links to the audio recordings of each sermon.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes glance at what I’ve been reading over the past few months. I’ve added a brief book description from Amazon to give you a taste of each book. Perhaps one of these books will garner your attention and compel you to add it to your cart! But let me mention a few things before you start scrolling:
I don’t agree with everything in every book I read
I’ve found all of these books helpful
I’ve found some of these books more helpful than others
Leadership is hard. Pastoring through divisive times is even harder. How do we lead well when criticized? How do we keep loving the church when hurt by her? What does it look like to remain committed to the gospel in cultural division?
Seasoned pastor Jonathan Dodson comes alongside struggling pastors and ministry leaders to guide them into the comfort of Christ. But he doesn’t stop there. Full of wisdom drawn from 2 Timothy, this book will equip you to lead the church with grace, charity and spiritual power through divisive times.
Great for pastors and ministry leaders who need encouragement and insight, or are wrestling with their calling. Makes a thoughtful gift.
With advancements in internet technology, people can get instant answers to just about any of their questions, connect long distance with family and friends, and stay informed with events around the world in real time.
In Digital Liturgies, tech-realist Samuel D. James examines the connection between patterns in technology and human desires. Everyone longs for a glimpse of heaven; James argues they are just looking for it in the wrong place—the internet.
This accessible book exposes 5 “digital liturgies” that prohibit people from contemplating big truths, accepting the uncomfortable, and acknowledging God as their Creator. It then calls readers to live faithfully before Christ, finding wisdom through Scripture and rest in God’s perfect design.
A Biblical View of the Internet and Technology: Readers explore the connection between human desire, the internet, and wisdom through a Christian lens
Great for College Students, Parents, and Pastors: This book encourages readers to live faithfully for Christ
Offers a Tech-Realist Perspective: Samuel D. James highlights the inherent dangers of digital technologies, offering wisdom for navigating our internet-saturated world
Evangelism is an extraordinary task; it’s what God uses to bring people from death to life. But it has always been difficult.
C.S. Lewis was used by God in the conversions of countless people, from friends and acquaintances in his own lifetime to modern-day readers of books such as The Chronicles of Narnia and Mere Christianity (the most influential Christian book of the 20th century). As Tim Keller comments, “C.S. Lewis was incredibly skilled at getting Christianity across in a way that’s powerful to thoughtful people.” So, if we want help with evangelism, there is much we can learn from the clarity and imagination of this hugely influential Christian writer.
You may feel inadequate to the task; after all, there is only one C.S. Lewis. But evangelist Randy Newman skillfully helps us to apply the methods Lewis used (storytelling, humour, imagery and more) in our own conversations.You will be equipped to talk about your faith and engage with unbelievers wisely, whatever their attitude towards the Christian faith.
“This isn’t a book to increase membership in a C.S. Lewis fan club or prompt praise for him. It’s to strengthen our resolve to point lost people to the one who could deliver them from a realm where it’s ‘always winter but never Christmas.’ My prayer is that this book will help you say and do things that will make an eternal difference in many people’s lives.” From the introduction to Mere Evangelism by Randy Newman.
There are many misconceptions about what it means to be humble. Some think that being humble means hiding your talents and abilities or being weak and inauthentic. But the Bible paints a different picture—defining humility as a self-forgetfulness leading to joy and explaining that it is a life-giving virtue that frees you from the restricting needs of your ego.
In Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness, Gavin Ortlund encourages readers that humility is not just an abstract virtue but a mark of gospel integrity. Ortlund examines humility both on a personal level and in the context of the church, giving examples of ways to cultivate it—including meditation on the gospel and practicing intentional gratitude. Drawing from Philippians 2 and historical texts such as C. S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity and Jonathan Edwards’s sermon “A Christian Spirit Is a Humble Spirit,” Ortlund defines humility in light of the incarnation and death of Jesus Christ, casting a vision for a gospel-centered, humble life.
First Book in the Growing Gospel Integrity Series: Created in partnership with Union School of Theology, with future volumes written by Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joe Rigney, and Conrad Mbewe
Written by Gavin Ortlund: Author of Theological Retrieval for Evangelicals: Why We Need Our Past to Have a Future and Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage
For Small Groups and Individual Study: Questions at the end of each chapter encourage small group discussion
Known primarily for his allegorical work, The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan was also a preacher, a gifted theologian and interpreter of Scripture. Academically, he was not a learned man, but when it came to practical and experiential mastery of the Scriptures and their theology, he was as gifted as anyone. His writings have a beauty and practicality not often found. He teaches that the greater the Christian’s understanding of truth, the stronger their own passion for Jesus will be, and the greater their worship and doxology will become.
Jacob Tanner’s enlightening biography traces Bunyan’s life from his humble beginnings to his calling home to the Celestial City. From his debaucherous youth to glimpses of grace and eventual calling to ministry.
There are lessons here for any twenty–first century Christian. He can teach men to be mature, fathers to be loving, husbands to be faithful, pastors to be tender, saints to suffer well, Christians to be steadfast. One of his greatest lessons to modern Christians is how to live faithfully for Christ in a world that is antagonistic to God.
Convinced that knowing the Word of God is fundamental to preaching, John Stott here presents brief studies of five New Testament metaphors that characterize preachers: steward, herald, witness, father, and servant. In the course of these five studies, Stott discusses the message and authority of preachers, the character of their proclamation, the vital necessity of their own experience of the gospel, and their motives and moral qualities, particularly humility, gentleness, and love.
A biblically faithful portrayal of what preachers are supposed to be emerges from Stott’s reflections —as he says, “a portrait painted by the hand of God himself on the broad canvas of the New Testament.”
Throughout Scripture, important biblical figures have faced numerous adversities with remarkable courage. In the New Testament, the apostles endured persecution, imprisonment, and even death for spreading the good news of the gospel. Yet, amid their struggle, they continued to expand the kingdom of God—even rejoicing as they suffered for Christ. How can believers exhibit this same courage today?
In Courage, author Joe Rigney explores the Christian virtue of fortitude and its connection to the gospel. From a theological perspective, Rigney argues that courage—used in the proper context—is a sign of God’s salvation and a believer’s faith in Christ. In this concise and practical book, readers will defeat feelings of anxiety, anger, and fear as they gain boldness from God to endure all of life’s circumstances.
Explores Christian Fortitude: How the gospel shapes this important Christian virtue
Practical Study: This concise guide encourages Christians to build up their boldness through Christ
A Part of the Growing Gospel Integrity Series: Created in partnership with Union School of Theology
Written by Joe Rigney: Author of The Things of Earth; Strangely Bright; and More Than a Battle: How to Experience Victory, Freedom, and Healing from Lust.
For many, contemplating predestination brings about fear, trepidation, controversy, and emotional exhaustion, making it a difficult topic to study―let alone view as a blessing.
This addition to the Short Studies in Systematic Theology series carefully examines God’s word to answer 15 commonly asked questions regarding the doctrines of election and reprobation. With helpful visuals, key definitions, answer summaries, and prayer responses, this concise guide is perfect for all believers who want to discover and delight in what God has revealed throughout Scripture. Readers will not only learn how God saves his people from their sins, but will be stirred to respond to him in worship.
Great for Theologians, Pastors, and Students: Designed to be short and approachable, this concise study dives deep into the doctrine of predestination
Part of the Short Studies in Systematic Theology Series: Other titles include The Person of Christ; Glorification; and The Doctrine of Scripture
Written by Andrew David Naselli: Pastor and professor of systematic theology and New Testament
Dr. Yancey Arrington says the reason many preachers don’t connect with their congregants isn’t because they haven’t thought through the message, but because they haven’t felt through it. In this practical guide for preachers of churches big and small, Arrington offers an innovative and effective paradigm based on his years of coaching preachers that brings the best to bear in both the ‘who’ and ‘how’ of the preaching event. Be prepared to better preach in a way that moves people!
When we’re standing at the gravesite, death gives little closure and leaves many questions unanswered. Despite the common claim that “dying is just a natural part of life,“ people seem to avoid this unsettling subject more than ever. Yet the Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of death. God’s Word has the answers we need to face the grave with confidence in our risen Redeemer.
In this book, Dr. Guy Waters provides the Bible’s answers to essential questions about death, dying, and what comes after this life. Here is balm for the grieving, counsel for caretakers, and guidance to help God’s people rest in Christ’s victory as we come to life’s final battle.
Commentaries on Philippians
Back in January, I began a sermon series through Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Here are some of the commentaries I’ve found helpful.
Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians while he was in prison, but it contains no hint of self-pity. Instead, the letter radiates joy―joy that Christ was proclaimed, joy in fellowship with the Philippian Christians, and above all, joy in Jesus himself.
In this Bible Speaks Today volume, J. A. Motyer identifies three major themes that filled Paul’s heart and mind as he wrote: the unity of the church, the person of Jesus and what he has achieved, and the call to live a life worthy of the gospel. Guiding readers passage by passage through Philippians, Motyer provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today.
The Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament (EGGNT) closes the gap between the Greek text and the available lexical and grammatical tools, providing all the necessary information for greater understanding of the text. The series makes interpreting any given New Testament book easier, especially for those who are hard pressed for time but want to preach or teach with accuracy and authority.
Each volume begins with a brief introduction to the particular New Testament book, a basic outline, and a list of recommended commentaries. The body is devoted to paragraph-by-paragraph exegesis of the Greek text and includes homiletical helps and suggestions for further study. A comprehensive exegetical outline of the New Testament book completes each EGGNT volume.
Preach powerful, life-changing sermons every Sunday with the bestselling commentary series, The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible. This unique resource will help you do more sermon preparation in less time.
Cut research time in half with balanced, comprehensive insight from 2,000 years of the best Christian thinkers, designed especially for you and your busy schedule
Understand the Bible better with deeper studies that expand on original Greek sources, provide historical background, and explain key points.
Get a headstart with an outline & subject index designed for topical study—perfect for quickly creating messages on a particular theme.
Create clear and concise messages with verse-by-verse, ready-to-use outlines that draw out key concepts.
Leave your congregation with practicalapplications with our easy-to-understand thoughts and deeper studies.
The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today’s context. To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today’s world, each passage is treated in three sections:
Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context.
Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible.
Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved.
This unique, award-winning commentary is the ideal resource for today’s preachers, teachers, and serious students of the Bible, giving them the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God’s Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.
THE NEW AMERICAN COMMENTARY is for the minister or Bible student who wants to understand and expound the Scriptures. Notable features include:* commentary based on THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION;* the NIV text printed in the body of the commentary;* sound scholarly methodology that reflects capable research in the original languages;* interpretation that emphasizes the theological unity of each book and of Scripture as a whole;* readable and applicable exposition.
I love when well-known Christian pastors, theologians, and websites begin posting their favorite reads of the year. Many of these books eventually end up on my shelf or in my hands.
In this blog, I’ll post my ten favorite reads of 2023 (in no particular order), and then I’ll post a link to other people’s favorite reads. My list will include books published in various years (the book descriptions are from Amazon). Other people’s lists will usually pertain to books published in 2023.
For many people, their job is merely “the daily grind” needed to provide for family or pay the bills. Yet our work is a vital means for fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives and displaying his grace to those around us. We bear God’s image in our workplaces, experiencing his blessings and expressing his nature through our efforts, integrity, creativity, generosity, and excellence. No earthly chore is without the opportunity to observe his divine hand. No challenge in task or relationship is without opportunity to represent God’s heart.
In this book, author and pastor Bryan Chapell shares this biblical perspective of vocation, explaining how God gives purpose to our work by making it an instrument of his grace to our own hearts, as well as a way of bringing his goodness and glory into our world. Chapell explains how we can worship God by our work, rising above drudgery, duty, or self-interest with the understanding that our jobs are unique callings for displaying God’s character and care. Our work is worship when we see the glory beyond the grind, the mission in the mundane, and the grace at work.
Ideal for Christians in the Workplace: Contains encouragement for those looking for purpose in their jobs
Biblically Grounded: Chapell teaches how the gospel blesses attitudes and responsibilities relating to success, creativity, money, integrity, leadership, and even sin in the workplace
Kingdom Minded: Explains vocation in light of the grace Christ provides to and through his people for blessing our world and bringing him glory
A powerful sermon must have not only clearly organized biblical content but also engaging delivery. How to Speak a Sermon is about sermon delivery, particularly extemporaneous sermon delivery. Combining biblical principles with the best insights of the ages and personal experiences, it explains the power and pitfalls of extemporaneous speech, how to develop speaking ability, and why preaching method matters.
Spurgeon and the Poor is a fascinating study into the life and ministry of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, exploring his understanding of the place of benevolence in the ministry of the local church. Alex DiPrima examines the way Spurgeon’s belief that gospel preaching and soul-winning formed the church’s mission informed his view of social concern as a compelling argument for its power. Readers will gain insight into Spurgeon’s theology and experience as he ministered to the oppressed through ministries, private philanthropy, and public advocacy.
When looking around at the world, it is easy to see that all is not as it should be. This brokenness within the world and humanity finds its roots in mankind’s rebellion against God. The fall, as recorded in Genesis 3, sets the stage for creation’s need for redemption―ultimately found in Jesus Christ.
In this book, pastor and professor Mitchell Chase argues that in order to understand the fall and recognize its profound impact on later Scripture and the world today, Christians must first understand Genesis 3. Chase identifies themes found in Genesis 3―temptation, shame, messianic hope, and more―and shows how they reverberate throughout the rest of the storyline of Scripture. Understanding Adam and Eve’s fall is crucial to understanding the world as it currently is and the need for redemption through Jesus.
Raised by well-meaning but overprotective parents and coddled by well-meaning but misbegotten government programs, America’s youth are ill-equipped to survive in our highly-competitive global economy.
Many of the coming-of-age rituals that have defined the American experience since the Founding: learning the value of working with your hands, leaving home to start a family, becoming economically self-reliant—are being delayed or skipped altogether. The statistics are daunting: 30% of college students drop out after the first year, and only 4 in 10 graduate. One in three 18-to-34 year-olds live with their parents.
From these disparate phenomena: Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse who as president of a Midwestern college observed the trials of this generation up close, sees an existential threat to the American way of life.
In The Vanishing American Adult, Sasse diagnoses the causes of a generation that can’t grow up and offers a path for raising children to become active and engaged citizens. He identifies core formative experiences that all young people should pursue: hard work to appreciate the benefits of labor, travel to understand deprivation and want, the power of reading, the importance of nurturing your body—and explains how parents can encourage them.
Our democracy depends on responsible, contributing adults to function properly—without them America falls prey to populist demagogues. A call to arms, The Vanishing American Adultwill ignite a much-needed debate about the link between the way we’re raising our children and the future of our country.
The Reformation unfolded in the cathedrals and town squares of Europe–in Wittenberg, Worms, Rome, Geneva, and Zurich–and it is a stirring story of courage and cowardice, of betrayal and faith.
The story begins with the Catholic Church and its desperate need for reform. The dramatic events that followed are traced from John Wycliffe in England, to the burning of John Hus at the stake in Prague, to the rampant sale of indulgences in the cities and towns of Germany, to Martin Luther nailing the Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Castle Church in 1517, to John Calvin’s reform of Geneva.
Erwin Lutzer captures the people, places, and big ideas that fueled the Reformation and explains its lasting influence on the church and Western Civilization.
We can hardly remember a time when we didn’t feel the influence of that back pocket device. The average social media user spends about two-and-a-half hours a day using social media. That’s more than enough time to shape our values and desires. Pastors, teachers, and parents feel their influence slipping away. We’re seeing increased loneliness, disunity, and self-absorption. But where do we go from here?
In The Wolf in Their Pockets, Internet expert Chris Martin examines the many ways we are being changed by social media. With a biblically informed voice, Martin both exposes the ways the Internet is distorting our life in Christ and shows us how to faithfully respond. Martin teaches us how to care for people who are obsessed with followers, views, and likes—and how to love those whose online influences have filled them with cynicism and contempt. Martin looks at how the social Internet is changing how we understand sex and beauty—what to do about the epidemic levels of anxiety—and how to redirect our hearts to worship Jesus Christ.
Shepherding and leading people has never been easy, but the social Internet has brought new challenges. We need the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit and a powerful prayer life. Martin provides the biblical wisdom, direction, and hope necessary to combat The Wolf in Their Pockets.
Few things bring more immediate scrutiny and impassioned angst among young adult Christians today than hearing the words “purity culture.” Serious flaws from purity culture deserve to be scrutinized, especially given its lasting negative effects on some raised in the movement. Many Christians today reject the movement—and all that it stood for—wholesale. However, we can’t ignore the clear sexual ethics of the Bible.
Pure dives into the big picture of God’s design for men and women regarding sexuality, and seeks to reclaim one of the clearest teaching in the scriptures: the call to sexual purity. While purity culture gets the truth right, the approach and gospel elements it espouses are often wrong. Let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water, but rather celebrate God’s great design for marriage and the loving boundaries he has put in place for our joy, protection, and flourishing.
Something has been going wrong on many college campuses in the last few years. Speakers are shouted down. Students and professors say they are walking on eggshells and are afraid to speak honestly. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are rising—on campus as well as nationally. How did this happen?
First Amendment expert Greg Lukianoff and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt show how the new problems on campus have their origins in three terrible ideas that have become increasingly woven into American childhood and education: What doesn’t kill you makes you weaker; always trust your feelings; and life is a battle between good people and evil people. These three Great Untruths contradict basic psychological principles about well-being and ancient wisdom from many cultures. Embracing these untruths—and the resulting culture of safetyism—interferes with young people’s social, emotional, and intellectual development. It makes it harder for them to become autonomous adults who are able to navigate the bumpy road of life.
Lukianoff and Haidt investigate the many social trends that have intersected to promote the spread of these untruths. They explore changes in childhood such as the rise of fearful parenting, the decline of unsupervised, child-directed play, and the new world of social media that has engulfed teenagers in the last decade. They examine changes on campus, including the corporatization of universities and the emergence of new ideas about identity and justice. They situate the conflicts on campus within the context of America’s rapidly rising political polarization and dysfunction.
This is a book for anyone who is confused by what is happening on college campuses today, or has children, or is concerned about the growing inability of Americans to live, work, and cooperate across party lines.
Our culture often views shame in a negative light. However, Paul’s use of shame, when properly understood and applied, has much to teach the contemporary church. Filling a lacuna in Pauline scholarship, this book shows how Paul uses shame to admonish and to transform the minds of his readers into the mind of Christ. The author examines Paul’s use of shame for moral formation within his Jewish and Greco-Roman context, compares and contrasts Paul’s use of shame with other cultural voices, and offers a corrective understanding for today’s church. Foreword by Luke Timothy Johnson.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes glance at what I’ve been reading over the past few months. I’ve added a brief book description from Amazon to give you a taste of each book. Perhaps one of these books will garner your attention and compel you to add it to your cart! But let me mention a few things before you start scrolling:
I don’t agree with everything in every book I read
I’ve found all of these books helpful
I’ve found some of these books more helpful than others
“Is conception control part of the Dominion Mandate? If so, are there limits to man’s dominion? In what ways did the Fall impact the conception portion of the Dominion Mandate? In what ways does Redemption impact conception? May a couple seek medical help in order to conceive? Are there limits to what medicine can ethically achieve in conception? Are there sexual practices within marriage that the Bible prohibits? How does one’s view of conception control and birth control impact other areas of life?”
2020 Center for Biblical Studies Book Award (New Testament)
“Our culture often views shame in a negative light. However, Paul’s use of shame, when properly understood and applied, has much to teach the contemporary church. Filling a lacuna in Pauline scholarship, this book shows how Paul uses shame to admonish and to transform the minds of his readers into the mind of Christ. The author examines Paul’s use of shame for moral formation within his Jewish and Greco-Roman context, compares and contrasts Paul’s use of shame with other cultural voices, and offers a corrective understanding for today’s church. Foreword by Luke Timothy Johnson.”
“We can hardly remember a time when we didn’t feel the influence of that back pocket device. The average social media user spends about two-and-a-half hours a day using social media. That’s more than enough time to shape our values and desires. Pastors, teachers, and parents feel their influence slipping away. We’re seeing increased loneliness, disunity, and self-absorption. But where do we go from here?
In The Wolf in Their Pockets, Internet expert Chris Martin examines the many ways we are being changed by social media. With a biblically informed voice, Martin both exposes the ways the Internet is distorting our life in Christ and shows us how to faithfully respond. Martin teaches us how to care for people who are obsessed with followers, views, and likes—and how to love those whose online influences have filled them with cynicism and contempt. Martin looks at how the social Internet is changing how we understand sex and beauty—what to do about the epidemic levels of anxiety—and how to redirect our hearts to worship Jesus Christ.
Shepherding and leading people has never been easy, but the social Internet has brought new challenges. We need the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit and a powerful prayer life. Martin provides the biblical wisdom, direction, and hope necessary to combat The Wolf in Their Pockets.”
“Renowned media scholar Sherry Turkle investigates how a flight from conversation undermines our relationships, creativity, and productivity – and why reclaiming face-to-face conversation can help us regain lost ground.
We live in a technological universe in which we are always communicating. And yet we have sacrificed conversation for mere connection.
Preeminent author and researcher Sherry Turkle has been studying digital culture for over 30 years. Long an enthusiast for its possibilities, here she investigates a troubling consequence: At work, at home, in politics, and in love, we find ways around conversation, tempted by the possibilities of a text or an email in which we don’t have to look, listen, or reveal ourselves.
We develop a taste for what mere connection offers. The dinner table falls silent as children compete with phones for their parents’ attention. Friends learn strategies to keep conversations going when only a few people are looking up from their phones. At work, we retreat to our screens although it is conversation at the water cooler that increases not only productivity but commitment to work. Online, we only want to share opinions that our followers will agree with – a politics that shies away from the real conflicts and solutions of the public square.
The case for conversation begins with the necessary conversations of solitude and self-reflection. They are endangered: These days, always connected, we see loneliness as a problem that technology should solve. Afraid of being alone, we rely on other people to give us a sense of ourselves, and our capacity for empathy and relationship suffers. We see the costs of the flight from conversation everywhere: Conversation is the cornerstone for democracy and in business it is good for the bottom line. In the private sphere, it builds empathy, friendship, love, learning, and productivity.
But there is good news: We are resilient. Conversation cures.
Based on five years of research and interviews in homes, schools, and the workplace, Turkle argues that we have come to a better understanding of where our technology can and cannot take us and that the time is right to reclaim conversation. The most human – and humanizing – thing that we do.
The virtues of person-to-person conversation are timeless, and our most basic technology, talk, responds to our modern challenges. We have everything we need to start, we have each other.”
“Small town life is quite different from life in a big city. There is not as much traffic. People recognize each other at the grocery store. Local sporting events carry a different cultural weight, and it may not be out of the ordinary to wait behind a tractor or get used to the smell of a nearby factory. These communities are unique, and pastoring here is an extraordinary task.
Ronnie Martin and Donnie Griggs are well-aware of this reality. In Pastoring Small Towns, their hope is to equip pastors and ministry leaders to take on the different nuances that come with pastoring smaller communities. They point out the cultural realities of these places and give pastors the tools to effectively engage their people with the Gospel.”
“Being a pastor is a complex and demanding role, especially for someone leading alone. The majority of pastors find themselves in this position, leading their smaller church with no additional professional assistance. The challenges are many, including loneliness, isolation, self-doubt, overwhelm, feelings of inadequacy, and a constant search for additional resources and volunteers. Where does a solo pastor turn for help and encouragement?
With compassion and plenty of proven, practical strategies, church consultant and former solo pastor Gary L. McIntosh steps in to fill the void.”
“Something has been going wrong on many college campuses in the last few years. Speakers are shouted down. Students and professors say they are walking on eggshells and are afraid to speak honestly. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are rising—on campus as well as nationally. How did this happen?
First Amendment expert Greg Lukianoff and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt show how the new problems on campus have their origins in three terrible ideas that have become increasingly woven into American childhood and education: What doesn’t kill you makes you weaker; always trust your feelings; and life is a battle between good people and evil people. These three Great Untruths contradict basic psychological principles about well-being and ancient wisdom from many cultures. Embracing these untruths—and the resulting culture of safetyism—interferes with young people’s social, emotional, and intellectual development. It makes it harder for them to become autonomous adults who are able to navigate the bumpy road of life.
Lukianoff and Haidt investigate the many social trends that have intersected to promote the spread of these untruths. They explore changes in childhood such as the rise of fearful parenting, the decline of unsupervised, child-directed play, and the new world of social media that has engulfed teenagers in the last decade. They examine changes on campus, including the corporatization of universities and the emergence of new ideas about identity and justice. They situate the conflicts on campus within the context of America’s rapidly rising political polarization and dysfunction.
This is a book for anyone who is confused by what is happening on college campuses today, or has children, or is concerned about the growing inability of Americans to live, work, and cooperate across party lines.”
“Death is a powerful and sobering reality. While everyone must face death, it is not the end for those united with Christ. Followers of Jesus Christ have resurrection hope―the proclamation that Christ has defeated death and the promise that believers shall share in his victory. The resurrection is essential to the Christian faith and is rooted in the faithfulness of God.
With scholarly insight, Mitchell L. Chase traces the theme of resurrection hope throughout Scripture, walking through each section of the Bible from the Law to Revelation. Having a proper understanding of death and resurrection will not only stir up our soberness for the reality of sin and death, but it will also motivate our praise to God.”
“In this complete guide to expository preaching, Bryan Chapell teaches the basics of preparation, organization, and delivery–the trademarks of great preaching. This new edition of a bestselling resource, now updated and revised throughout, shows how Chapell’s case for expository preaching reaches twenty-first-century readers.”
“In an era of safe spaces, trigger warnings, and an unprecedented election, the country’s youth are in crisis. Senator Ben Sasse warns the nation about the existential threat to America’s future.
Raised by well-meaning but overprotective parents and coddled by well-meaning but misbegotten government programs, America’s youth are ill-equipped to survive in our highly-competitive global economy.
Many of the coming-of-age rituals that have defined the American experience since the Founding: learning the value of working with your hands, leaving home to start a family, becoming economically self-reliant―are being delayed or skipped altogether. The statistics are daunting: 30% of college students drop out after the first year, and only 4 in 10 graduate. One in three 18-to-34 year-olds live with their parents.
From these disparate phenomena: Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse who as president of a Midwestern college observed the trials of this generation up close, sees an existential threat to the American way of life.
In The Vanishing American Adult, Sasse diagnoses the causes of a generation that can’t grow up and offers a path for raising children to become active and engaged citizens. He identifies core formative experiences that all young people should pursue: hard work to appreciate the benefits of labor, travel to understand deprivation and want, the power of reading, the importance of nurturing your body―and explains how parents can encourage them.
Our democracy depends on responsible, contributing adults to function properly―without them America falls prey to populist demagogues. A call to arms, The Vanishing American Adult will ignite a much-needed debate about the link between the way we’re raising our children and the future of our country.”
Doctrine & Devotion 