resources : recommended reading

We recommend caution when reading inspirational books outside of the bible. Sadly, even many Christian books these days are straying to varying degrees from “the pattern” given to us in the holy scriptures.

Therefore, everything must be tested in light of what the bible says.

“Do not go beyond what is written.” (1 Corinthians 4:6)

“What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching.” (2 Timothy 1:13).

“Even from your own number men will arise and will distort the truth...so be on your guard!” (Acts 20:30,31)

“Now the Bereans were of more noble character...they examined the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was true.” (Acts 17:11)

With that caveat, we would like to recommend the following books:

Living as a Christ Follower

When God Writes Your Life Story by Eric & Leslie Ludy
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan
The Practice Of The Presence Of God by Brother Lawrence
The Imitation Of Christ by Thomas a Kempis (includes occasional Roman Catholic emphases)

The Basics of the Faith

From Creation To The Cross by Albert H. Baylis (an old testament overview)

Theology

The Knowledge Of The Holy by A.W. Tozer
The Grace Of God, The Will Of Man, Clark H. Pinnock General Editor

Apologetics (defending the faith)

That’s Just Your Interpretation by Paul Copan
I’m Glad You Asked by Larry Moody & Ken Boa
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
The Case For Christ by Lee Strobel
The Bible Answer Book by Hank Hanegraaff

Church History

The Apostolic Fathers edited by Jack Sparks (the writings of those who followed the Apostles)

Spiritual Disciplines

Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster (read this author’s works with some caution)
The Spirit Of The Disciplines by Dallas Willard (read this author’s works with some caution)

Marriage

Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerichs

Church Planting / Postmodern Church Ministry

The Emerging Church by Dan Kimball
The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren
Starting a New Church by Ralph Moore
The Great Giveaway by David E. Fitch

Bible Versions

New International Version Study Bible (readable thought for thought version, reasonably accurate, notes are generally fair and balanced, the official Voyage version)
New KIng James Bible (known for accuracy)
New American Standard Bible (known for accuracy)
New Living Translation of the Bible (paraphrase, lacking in accuracy, good for fresh alternative take on Scripture, read with more accurate version in hand)

Fun And Inspiration (from a Sci-fi/fantasy lover)

The Lord Of The Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien (not an allegory but written in part to remind us of the victory of God over evil through Christ. It stirs the heart to live a life of adventure, purpose, bravery and kindness. The true story found in the book far surpasses that of the movie)
The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever by Steven R. Donaldson (nine volumes)
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Black / Red / White (The Circle Trilogy) by Ted Dekker