Book Recommendations
I love good books. I love to talk about good books, share recommendations, and stockpile bound works on tall bookshelves. I hope you love good books too.
If you're on the hunt for a good book, I suggest you ask your friends what they're reading and what they thing you should read. Ask your pastor. Ask other professors. Look at the bibliography and footnotes in your favorite books. Ask instructors of courses that interest you for copies of their syllabi and read the books listed. Listen to Salty Believer Unscripted and take note of the books mentioned. Subscribe to the Salty Believer YouTube Channel and do the same. And always keep a keen eye out for recommendations.
This recommendation page is a work in progress and always will be. Please check out the recommendations by videos and list by subject below. And please remember that my recommendation is not an endorsement that every word of every book is right and true. Neither is this list an endorsement for the authors. Not all of these authors listed below are conservative Christians. Please read with discernment and be sure to measure ever book against God’s Word.
Book Recommendations By Video
How Can I Begin to Teach the Bible by David Helm YouTube
Reaching the Next Generation by Kevin DeYoung YouTube
The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping YouTube
The Shorter Catechism Explained from Scripture by Thomas Vincent YouTube
Strange New World by Carl Trueman YouTube
Planting by Pastoring by Nathan Knight YouTube
The Gospel Shaped Leader by Scott Thomas YouTube
Covenantal and Dispensational Theologies by Brent Parker and Richard Lucas YouTube
Discontinuity to Continuity by Benjamin Merkle YouTube
Dig Deeper: Tools for Understanding God’s Word by Nigel Beyon and Andrew Sach YouTube
Illustrating Well: Preaching Sermons that Connect by Jim Wilson YouTube
Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners by John Bunyan YouTube
Listen Up!: A Practical Guide to Listening to Sermon by Christopher Ash YouTube
Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Suffers by Dane Ortlund YouTube
Why I Trust the Bible: Answers to Real Questions and Doubts People Have About the Bible by William Mounce YouTube
Reformed Preaching: Proclaiming God’s Word from teh Heart of the Preacher to the Heart of His People by Joel Beeke YouTube
Meet the Puritans: With a Guide to Modern Reprints by Joel R. Beeke and Randall J. Pederson YouTube
Expositional Preaching: How We Speak God’s Word Today by David Helm YouTube
From & Before God: A Practical Introduction to Expository Preaching by Sugel Michelen YouTube
Life Connections Study Bible for Personal and Small Group Study YouTube
The Reluctant Witness: Discovering the Delight of Spiritual Conversations by Don Everts YouTube
What is a Healthy Church by Mark Dever YouTube
Letters to My Students: Volume 1 On Preaching by Jason K. Allen YouTube
Above All: The Gospel is the Source of The Church’s Renewal by J. D. Greear YouTube
Saving the Reformation: The Pastoral Theology of the Canons of Dort by W. Robert Godfrey YouTube
SBC FAQs: A Ready Reference by Keith Harper and Amy Whitfield YouTube
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society by Eugene Peterson YouTube
The Saints of Zion: An Introduction to Mormon Theology by Travis Kerns. YouTube
Impact Preaching: A Case for the One-Point Expository Preaching by Jim Wilson. YouTube
Bible Promises to Live By by Dave Earley. YouTube
The Character of Leadership: Nine Qualities that Define Great Leaders by Jeff Iorg. YouTube
Delighting in God by A.W. Towzer and the Christ-Centered Exposition Series. YouTube
Concise Theology: A Guide to Historical Christian Belief by J.I. Packer. YouTube
Reordering the Trinity: Six Movements of God in the New Testament by Rodrick Durst. YouTube
Reaching the Unreached: Becoming Raiders of the Lost Art by Peyton Jones. YouTube
The Painful Side of Leadership: Moving Forward Even When it Hurts by Jeff Iorg. YouTube
Brain Savvy Leaders: The Science of Significant Ministry by Charles Stone. YouTube
12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You by Tony Reinke. YouTube
Working the Angles and The Contemplative Pastor, both by Eugene H. Peterson. YouTube
(Using the links on this website to purchase books helps support SaltyBeliever.com. Thank you!)
Book Recommendations By Subject:
Apologetics & Philosophy
Akers, John (Editor) and John Armstrong (Editor). This We Believe: The Good News of Jesus Christ For the World. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2000.
Geisler, Norman and Ron Brooks. When Skeptics Ask: A Handbook on Christian Evidences. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2013.
Eric, Johnson. Introducing Christianity to Mormons: A Practical and Comparative Guide to What the Bible Teaches. Eugene, Oreg: Harvest House, 2022.
Foreman, Mark. Prelude to Philosophy: An Introduction for Christians. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2014.
Kerns, Travis. The Saints of Zion: An Introduction to Mormon Theology. Nashville, Tenn: B & H Academic, 2018.
Keller, Timothy J. The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism. New York: Riverhead Books, 2009.
Moreland, James Porter, and Dallas Willard. Love Your God with All Your Mind: The Role of Reason in the Life of the Soul. Colorado Springs, Colo: NavPress, 1997.
Mounce, William. Why I Trust the Bible: Answers to Real Questions and Doubts People Have About the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2021.
Sproul, R.C. and Robert Wolgemuth. What's in the Bible: A Tour of Scripture from the Dust of Creation to the Glory of Revelation. Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson, 2011.
Trueman, Carl R. Strange New World: How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2022.
Van Til, Cornelius, and William Edgar (Editor). Christian Apologetics. Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing, 2003
Wilder, Lynn. Unveiling Grace: The Story of How We Found Our Way Out of the Mormon Church. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2013.
Bible Study
Akers, John (Editor) and John Armstrong (Editor). This We Believe: The Good News of Jesus Christ For the World. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2000.
Beynon, Nigel and Andrew Sach. Dig Deeper: Tools for Understanding God’s Word. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2010.
Carson, D.A. Exegetical Fallacies. Grand Rapids, MIch: Baker Academic, 1996.
Carson, D.A. and Douglas J. Moo. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2005.
Coleman, Lyman (General Editor). Life Connections Study Bible for Personal and Small Group Study. Nashville, Tenn: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019.
Duvall, J. Scott and J. Daniel Hays. Grasping God's Word: A Hands-On Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible. Grand Rapid, Mich: Zondervan, 2005.
Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas K. Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2003.
Goldsworthy, Graeme. According to Plan: The Unfolding Revelation of God in the Bible. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 1991.
Gorman, Michael J. Elements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2009.
Guthrie, George H. Read the Bible for Life: Your Guide to Understanding and Living God's Word. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2011.
Hamilton, James M, Jr. What is Biblical Theology: A Guide to the Bible’s Story, Symbolism, and Patters. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2014.
Hendricks, Howard G. and William D. Hendricks. Living by the Book: The Art and Science of Reading the Bible. Chicago, Ill: Moody Publishers, 2007.
Klein, William W., Craig Blomberg, Robert L. Hubbard, and Kermit Allen Ecklebarger. Introduction to Biblical Interpretation. Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson, 2003.
Kostenberger, Andreas J., L. Scott Kellum and Charles L. Quarles. The Cradle, The Cross, and the Crown: An Introduction to the New Testament. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Academic, 2016.
Lea, Thomas D. and David Alan Black. The New Testament: Its Background and Message. Nashville, Tenn: B&H, 2003.
Longman, Temper III and Raymond D. Dillard. An Introduction to the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2006.
Piper, John. A Peculiar Glory: How the Christian Scriptures Reveal Their Complete Truthfulness. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2016.
Plummer, Robert L. 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregal Publications, 2010.
Roberts, Vaughan. God’s Big Picture: Tracing the Storyline of the Bible. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2002.
Sproul, R.C. and Robert Wolgemuth. What's in the Bible: A Tour of Scripture from the Dust of Creation to the Glory of Revelation. Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson, 2011.
Stott, John. Through the Bible Through the Year. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2006.
Biblical Counseling & Restoration
Benner, David G. Strategic Pastoral Counseling: A Short-Term Structured Model. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2003.
Carson, D.A. How Long O Lord?: Reflections on Suffering and Evil. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2006.
Chandler, Matt and Michael Snetzer. Recovering Redemption: A Gospel-Saturated Perspective on How to Change. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2014.
Clinton, Tim and Ron Hawkins. The Quick-Reference Guide to Biblical Counseling: 40 Topics, Spiritual Insights & Easy-to-Use Action Steps. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2009.
Clinton, Tim and Eric Scalise. The Quick-Reference Guide to Addictions and Recovery Counseling: 40 Topics, Spiritual Insights & Easy-to-Use Action Steps. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2013.
Cloud, Henry and John Townsend. Boundaries: When to Say, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life. Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson Publishing, 1992.
Eswine, Zack. Spurgeon's Sorrows: Realistic Home for those who Suffer from Depression. Scotland, UK: Christian Focus Publications, 2014.
Kollar, Charles Allen. Solution-Focused Pastoral Counseling: An Effective Short-Term Approach for Getting People Back on Track. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2011.
Lewis, C. S. A Grief Observed. San Fransisco, Cal: HarperCollins, 1996.
Nouwen, Henri J.M. The Wounded Healer: Ministry in Contemporary Society. New York: Image Doubleday, 1972.
Pierre, Jeremy and Deepak Reju. The Pastor and Counseling: The Basics of Shepherding Members in Need. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2015.
Piper, John. When the Darkness Will Not Life: Doing What We Can While We Wait for God--and Joy. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2006.
Sande, Ken. The Peace Maker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2004.
Worden, J. William. Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy: A Handbook for the Mental Health Practitioner. New York: Springer Publishing, 2009.
Commentary
Burce, F. F. The Gospel of John: Introduction, Exposition, and Notes. Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans Publishing, 1983.
Calvin, John. Calvin Commentaries (Series). 500th Anniversary Edition. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2009.
Carson, D. A. (Editor). The Pillar New Testament Commentary (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: W. B. Eerdmans.
Gasque, W. Ward (Editor). New International Biblical Commentary (NT Series). Peabody, Mass: Henderickson Publishers.
Harrison, R. K. and Robert Hubbard Jr. (Editors). The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: W. B. Eerdmans.
Hoehner, Harold W. Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2002.
Howard, David and Glenn Barker (Editors). Word Biblical Commentary (Series). Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson.
Lewis, C. S. Reflections on the Psalms. New York: Harcourt, Brace, 1958.
Longman, Temper III and David Garland (Editors). The Expositor’s Bible Commentary (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan.
Marshall, Howard and W. Ward Gasque (Editors). The New International Greek Testament Commentary (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich, Eerdmans Publishing.
Morris, Leon (Editor). Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Series). Downer’s Grover, Ill: IVP Academic.
Muck, Terry (Editor). The NIV Application Commentary: From biblical text . . . to contemporary life (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan.
Oden, Thomas C. (Editor). Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Series). Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press.
Platt, David, Daniel Akin, and Tony Merida (Editors). Christ Centered Exposition (Series). Nashville, Tenn: Holman Reference.
Stonehouse, Ned, F. F. Bruce, Gordon Fee, and Joel Green (Editors). The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: W. B. Eerdmans.
Sproul, R.C. and Robert Wolgemuth. What's in the Bible: A Tour of Scripture from the Dust of Creation to the Glory of Revelation. Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson, 2011.
Yarbrough, Robert and Robert Stein (Editors). Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Series). Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic.
Discipleship*
Ash, Christopher. Listen Up!: A Practical Guide Listening to Sermons. Epsom: Surr: The Good Book Company, 2009.
Bonhoeffer, Deitrich. The Cost of Discipleship. New York: Touchstone, 1995.
Coleman, Lyman (General Editor). Life Connections Study Bible for Personal and Small Group Study. Nashville, Tenn: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019.
Grudem, Wayne A., Elliot Grudem. Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2005.
Harrington, Bobby and Alex Absalom. Discipleship that Fits: The Five Kinds of Relationships God Uses to Help us Grow. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2016.
Helm, David. One to One Bible Reading: A Simple Guide for Every Christian. Youngstown, Ohio: Matthias Media, 2011.
Dever, Mark. Discipling: How to Help Others Follow Jesus. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2016.
Hendricks, Howard G., and William D. Henricks. Living by the Book: The Art and Science of Reading the Bible. Chicago, Ill: Moody Publishers, 2007.
Iorg, Jeff. Is God Calling Me?: Answering the Question Every Leader Asks. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2008.
Iorg, Jeff. Live Like a Missionary: Giving Your Life for What Matters Most. Birmingham, Alab: New Hope, 2011.
Iorg, Jeff. Shadow Christians: Making and Impact When No One Knows Your Name. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2020.
Keller, Timothy. Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2012.
Marchall, Collin and Tony Payne. The Trellis and the Vine: The Ministry Mind-Shift that Changes Everything. Sydney, Australia: Matthias Media, 2009.
Peterson, Eugene H. A Long Obedience In The Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society. Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 2000.
Piper, John. Don't Waste Your Life. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books, 2003.
Thompson, W. Oscar. Concentric Circles of Concern: Seven Stages for Making Disciples. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman Press, 1981.
Evangelism & Mission*
Allen, Roland. The Spontaneous Expansion of the Church: And Causes that Hinder It. Eugene, Org: Wipf and Stock, 1962.
Everts, Don. The Reluctant Witness: Discovering the Delight of Spiritual Conversations. Downers Grove, Ill: IVP, 2019.
Iorg, Jeff. Live Like a Missionary: Giving Your Life for What Matters Most. Birmingham, Alab: New Hope, 2011.
Keller, Timothy. Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2012.
Knight, Nathan. Planting by Pastoring: A vision for Starting a Healthy Church. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2023.
Koukl, Gregory. Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2009.
McRaney, Will. The Art of Personal Evangelism: Sharing Jesus in a Changing Culture. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman & Holman, 2003.
Metzger, Will. Tell the Truth: The Whole Gospel Wholly by Grace Communicated Truthfully and Lovingly. Downers Grove: Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2012.
Packer, J. I. Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2008.
Piper, John. Let the Nations Be Glad: The Supremacy of God in Missions. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2003.
Thompson, W. Oscar. Concentric Circles of Concern: Seven Stages for Making Disciples. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman Press, 1981.
Willis, Dustin and Aaron Coe. Life on Mission: Joining the Everyday Mission of God. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 2014.
History
Augustine. Confessions. London, England: Penguin Books, 1961.
Bunyan, John. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: A Brief Account of God's Exceeding Mercy through Christ to His Poor Servant. John Bunyan. Abbotsford, Wis: Aneko, 2017.
Beeke, Joel R. and Randall J. Pederson. Meet the Puritans: With a Guide to Modern Reprints. Grand Rapids, Mich: Reformation Heritage Books, 2006.
Betteson, Henry and Chris Maunder (Editors). Documents of the Christian Church. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999.
Christian, George. The Lost Sermons of C. H. Spurgeon Volume I: His Earliest Outlines and Sermons Between 1851 and 1854. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Academic, 2017.
Dowley, Tim. Eerdmans’ Handbook to the History of Christianity. Grand Rapids, Mich: W. B. Eerdmans, 1977.
Godfrey, W. Robert. Saving the Reformation: The Pastoral Theology of the Canons of Dort. York, Penn: Reformation Trust, 2019.
Gonzalez, Justo L. The Story of Christianity: Complete in One Volume: the Early Church to the Present Day. Peabody, Mass: Prince Press, 2009.
Lawson, Steven. The Gospel Focus of Charles Spurgeon. Orlando, Flor: Reformation Trust, 2012.
Lawson, Steven. The Passionate Preaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Orlando, Flor: Reformation Trust, 2016.
Lewis, Peter. The Genius of Puritanism. Morgan, Penn: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997.
Maier, Paul L. Eusebius: The Church History. Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregel, 1999.
Murray, Iain H. The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981). Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth, 2013.
Green, Michael. Evangelism in the Early Church. Guildford, Surry: Eagle, 1970.
Hall, Christopher A. Reading Scripture with the Church Fathers. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 1998.
Hill, Jonathan. The History of Christian Thought: The Fascinating Story of the Great Christian Thinkers and How They Help Shape the World as We Know it Today. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2003.
Marsden, George M. A Short Life of Jonathan Edwards. Grand Rapids, Mich: W. B. Eerdmans, 2008.
Nichols, Stephen J., and Ned Bustard. The Church History ABCs Augustine and 25 Other Heroes of the Faith. Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2010.
Piper, John. 27 Servants of Sovereign Joy: Faithful, Flawed, and Fruitful (Swans Are Not Silent). Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2022.
Spurgeon, C. H., Spurgeon’s Sermons. Peabody, Mass: Henderickson Publishers, 2011.
Water, Mark (Editor). The Encyclopedia of Christian Martyrs. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2001.
Local Church
Clifton, Mark. Reclaiming Glory: Revitalizing Dying Churches. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2016.
Dever, Mark. Nine Marks of a Healthy Church, 3rd ed. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2013.
Dever, Mark. What is a Healthy Church? Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2007.
Iorg, Jeff. The Case for Antioch: A Biblical Model for a Transformational Church. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2011.
Keller, Timothy. Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2012.
Knight, Nathan. Planting by Pastoring: A vision for Starting a Healthy Church. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2023.
Towns, Elmer L., and Douglas Porter. Churches That Multiply: A Bible Study on Church Planting. Kansas City, Mo: Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, 2003.
Pastoral Leadership
Clowney, Edmund P. Called to the Ministry. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing, 1964.
Iorg, Jeff. The Character of Leadership: Nine Qualities that Define Great Leaders, Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2007.
Iorg, Jeff. Is God Calling Me?: Answering the Question Every Leader Asks. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing Group, 2008.
Iorg, Jeff. Leading Major Change in Your Ministry. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2018.
Iorg, Jeff. The Painful Side of Leadership: Moving Forward Even When It Hurts. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2009.
Iorg, Jeff. Seasons of a Leader's Life: Learning, Leading, and Leaving Your Legacy. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2013.
Mager, Robert F. Goal Analysis (2nd ed.). Belmont, Cali: Lake Publishing Company, 1984.
Malphurs, Aubrey. Look Before You Lead: How to Discern and Shape Your Church Culture. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2013.
Peterson, Eugene H. The Contemplative Pastor: Returning to the Art of Spiritual Direction. Wheaton, Ill: 1989.
Peterson, Eugene H. A Long Obedience In The Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society. Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 2000.
Peterson, Eugene H. Working the Angles: The Shape of Pastoral Integrity. Grand Rapids, Mich: W.B. Eerdmans, 1987.
Piper, John. Brothers, We Are Not Professionals: A Plea to Pastors for Radical Ministry. Nashville, Tenn: B&H, 2013.
Shelly, Marshall. Ministering to Problem People in Your Church: What do to with Well-Intentioned Dragons. Minneapolis, Minn: Bethany House, 2013.
Spurgeon, Charles. Lectures to My Students. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 1954.
Thomas, Scott. The Gospel Shaped Leader: Leaning on Jesus to Shepherd His People. Greensboro, NC: New Growth Press, 2021.
Tripp, Paul David. Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2012.
Wilson, Michael Todd, and Brad Hoffmann. Preventing Ministry Failure: A ShepherdCare Guide for Pastors, Ministers and Other Caregivers. Downers Grove, Ill: IVP Books, 2007.
Prayer
Bennett, Arthur (Editor). The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions. East Peoria, Ill: Versa Press, 2011.
Croft, Brian and Ryan Fullerton. Pray for the Flock: Ministering God’s Grace Through Intercession. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2015.
Keller, Timmothy. Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God. New York, New York: Penguin, 2016.
Peterson, Eugene H. Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer. New York, New York: HarperCollins, 1989.
Sproul, R. C. The Prayer of the Lord. Harrisonburg, Virg: Reformation Trust, 2009.
Spurgeon, C. H. The Pastor in Prayer: A Collection of the Sunday Morning Prayers of C. H Spurgeon. Carlisle, Pens: The Banner of Truth Trust, 2004.
Spurgeon, C. H. The Power of Prayer in a Believer’s Life (Compiled and Edited by Robert Hall). Lynnwood, Wash: Emerald Books, 1993.
Spurgeon, C. H. Spurgeon on the Priority of Prayer (Compiled by Jason K. Allen). Chicago, Ill: Moody, 2021.
Whitney, Donald S. Praying the Bible. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2015.
Preaching & Teaching
Allen, Jason K. Letters to My Students: Volume 1 On Preaching. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2019.
Ash, Christopher. Listen Up!: A Practical Guide Listening to Sermons. Epsom: Surr: The Good Book Company, 2009.
Beeke, Joel. Reformed Preaching: Proclaiming God’s Word from the Heart of the Preacher to the Heart of His People. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2018.
Broadus, John. On the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons. (Kindle Edition) Titus Books, 2014.
Coleman, Lyman (General Editor). Life Connections Study Bible for Personal and Small Group Study. Nashville, Tenn: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019.
Duduit, Michael (Editor) Handbook of Contemporary Preaching: A Wealth of Counsel for Creative and Effective Proclamation. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman Press, 1992.
Gordon, T. David. Why Johnny Can’t Preach: The Media Have Shaped the Messengers. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2009.
Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas K. Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2003.
Hamilton, Donald L. Homiletical Handbook. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman Press, 1992.
Helm, David R. Expositional Preaching: How We Speak God’s Word Today. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2014.
Helm, David R. How Can I Begin to Teach the Bible? Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2024.
Hendricks, Howard. Teaching to Change Lives: Seven Proven Ways to Make Your Teaching Come Alive. New York: Multnomah, 1987.
Johnson, Darrel W. The Glory of Preaching: Participating in God’s Transformation of the World. Downer’s Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2009.
Keller, Timothy. Preaching: Communicating Faith in an Age of Skepticism. New York, New York: Penguin, 2016.
Lawson, Steven. The Passionate Preaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Orlando, Flor: Reformation Trust, 2016.
Lloyd-Jones, Martyn. Preaching and Preachers. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2012.
MacArthur, John, Jr. Rediscovering Expository Preaching: Balancing the Science and Art of Biblical Exposition. Dallas, Tex: Word Books, 1992.
McDill, Wayne. 12 Essential Skills for Great Preaching. (2nd ed.). Nashville, Tenn: B&H Academic, 2006.
Michelén, Sugel. From & Before God: A Practical Introduction to Expository Preaching. Nashville, Tenn: B&H, 2019.
Millar, Gary and Phil Campbell. Saving Eutychus: How to Preach God’s Word and Keep People Awake. Kingsford, Australia: Matthias Media, 2013.
Miller, Calvin. Preaching: The Art of Narrative Exposition. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2006.
Murray, David. How Sermons Work. Darlington, England: Evangelical Press, 2011.
Piper, John. The Supremacy of God in Preaching. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2004.
Robinson, Haddon W. Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages (3rd ed.). Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Academic, 2014.
Rummage, Stephen Nelson. Planning Your Preaching: A Step-by-Step Guide for Developing a One-Year Preaching Calendar. Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregel Academic and Professional, 2002.
Shelly, Marshall (Editor). Changing Lives Through Preaching and Worship. Nashville, Tenn: Moorings, 1995.
Sills, M. David. Hearts, Heads, & Hands: A Manual for Teaching Others to Teach Others. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2016.
Spurgeon, Charles. Lectures to My Students. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 1954.
Stone, Charles. Brain Savvy Leaders: The Science of Significant Ministry. Nashville, Tenn: Abingdon Press, 2015.
Sunukjian, Donald R. Invitation to Biblical Preaching: Proclaiming Truth with Clarity and Relevance. Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregal Academic and Professional, 2007.
Wax, Trevin. Gospel-Centered Teaching: Showing Christ in All Scripture. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2013.
Westerhoff, John H. Spiritual Life: The Foundation for Preaching and Teaching. Louisville, Kent: Westminster John Knox Press, 1994.
Wilson, Jim L. Illustrating Well: Preaching Sermons that Connect. Bellingham, Wash: Lexham Press, 2022.
Wilson, Jim L., R. Gregg Watson, Michael Kuykendall, and David Johnson. Impact Preaching: A Case for the One-Point Expository Sermon. Bellingham, Wash: Lexham Press, 2018.
Yount, William R. Called to Teach: An Introduction to the Ministry to Teaching. Nasville, Tenn: B&H Academic, 1999.
Social Life (Marriage, Gender, Race, Children, & Family)
Barber, Leroy. Embrace: God's Radical Shalom for a Divided World. Downers Grove, Ill: IVP Books, 2016.
Begg, Alistair. Brave by Faith: God-Sized Confidence in a Post-Christian World. Charlotte, NC: The Good Book Company, 2021.
Clarkson, Sally. The Mission of Motherhood: Touching Your Child's Heart for Eternity. Colorado Springs, Col: Waterbrook Press, 2003.
Coleman, Lyman (General Editor). Life Connections Study Bible for Personal and Small Group Study. Nashville, Tenn: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019.
DeYoung, Kevin. The (Not-So-Secret Secret) Secret To Reaching the Next Generation. heaton, Ill: Crossway, 2024.
Hughes, Barbara. Disciplines of a Godly Woman. Wheaton, Ill, Crossway Books, 2001.
Hughes, Kent R. Disciplines of a Godly Man. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books, 1991.
Koessler, John. Dangerous Virtues: How to Follow Jesus When Evil Masquerades as Good. Chicago, Ill: Moody Publishers, 2020.
Phillips, Rob. What Ever Christian Should Know About Same-Sex Attraction: A Biblical Primer for the Local Church. Missouri Baptist Convention, 2016.
Reinke, Tony. 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway: 2017.
Thomas, Gary. Sacred Marriage: What if God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy?. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2000.
Thomas, Gary. Sacred Parenting: How Raising Children Shapes our Souls. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2004.
Tripp, Paul David. What did you Expect?: Redeeming the Realities of Marriage. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2010.
Trueman, Carl R. Strange New World: How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2022.
Theology
Augustine. Confessions. London, England: Penguin Books, 1961.
Armstrong, John H. (General Editor), and Paul Engle (Series Editor). Understanding Four Views on Baptism. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2007.
Armstrong, John H. (General Editor), and Paul Engle (Series Editor). Understanding Four Views on the Lord’s Supper. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2007.
Bock, Darrell L. (General Editor), and Stanley N. Gundry (Series Editor). Three Views on the Millennium and Beyond. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 1999.
Blackaby, Henry T. and Claude V. King. Experiencing God: How to Live the Full Adventure of Knowing and Doing the Will of God. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman and Holman, 1994.
Burroughs, Jonathan. The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth, 1964 (first published, 1648).
Calvin, John. Institutes of the Christian Religion. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1960.
Chesterton, G. K. Orthodoxy. Scotts Valley, Cal: CreateSpace, 2015.
Crockett, William V. Four Views on Hell. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan Publishing, 1996.
Durst, Rodrick, Reordering the Trinity: Six Movement of God in the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregel, 2015.
Erickson, Millard J. Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Book House, 1983.
Godfrey, W. Robert. Saving the Reformation: The Pastoral Theology of the Canons of Dort. York, Penn: Reformation Trust, 2019.
Grudem, Wayne A. (General Editor) and Gaffin, Richard B. (Series Editor). Are Miraculous Gifts for Today?: Four Views. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan Pub, 1996.
Grudem, Wayne A. Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Leicester, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994.
Grudem, Wayne A. (General Editor) and Stanley N. Gundry (Series Editor). Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know. Grand Rapids, Mich: Zondervan, 2005.
Merkle, Benjamin. Discontinuity to Continuity: A Survey of Dispensational & Covenantal Theologies. Bellingham, Wash, 2020.
Ortland, Dane. Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Suffers. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2020.
Packer, J. I. Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs. Carol Stream, Ill: Tyndale House, 2001.
Packer, J. I. Knowing God. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 1973.
Parker, Brent and Richard Lucas. Covenantal and Dispensational Theologies: Four Views on the Continuity of Scripture. Downers Gove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2022.
Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Sisters, Org: Multnomah Publishers, 1992.
Piper, John. The Future of Justification: A Response to N. T. Wright. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books, 2007.
Sandy, D. Brent. Plowshares and Pruning Hooks: Rethinking the Language of Biblical Prophecy and Apocalyptic. Downers Grove, Ill: InterVarsity Press, 2002.
Sproul, R. C. Essential Truths of the Christian Faith. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House, 1992.
Sproul, R. C. The Holiness of God. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 1985.
Sproul, R. C. What Is Reformed Theology? Orlando, Fla: Ligonier Ministries, 1991.
Towns, Elmer. Theology for Today. Mason, Ohio: Cengage Learning, 2008.
Tozer, A. W. The Knowledge of the Holy. New York: HarperCollins, 1961.
Vincent, Thomas. The Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture. Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth, 2021 (first published 1674)
Washer, Paul. The Gospel’s Power and Message. Grand Rapids, Mich: Reformation Heritage Books, 2020.
Worship & Spiritual Formation
Ash, Christopher. Listen Up!: A Practical Guide Listening to Sermons. Epsom: Surr: The Good Book Company, 2009.
Boswell, Matt. Doxology and Theology: How the Gospel Forms the Worship Leader. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2013.
Bunyan, John. The Pilgrim’s Progress: In Modern English. Edited by L. Edward Hazelbaker. Newberry, Flor: Bridge-Logos, 1998.
Burroughs, Jonathan. The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth, 1964 (first published, 1648).
Demarest, Bruce. Satisfy Your Soul: Restoring the Heart of Christian Spirituality. Colorado Springs, Col: NavPress, 1999.
Earley, Dave and Rod Dempsey. Spiritual Formation Is. . . : How to Grow in Jesus with Passion and Confidence. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Academic, 2018.
Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth. New York: HarperCollins, 2003.
Foster, Richard J. The Challenge of The Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power. New York, HarperCollins, 1985.
Iorg, Jeff. Shadow Christians: Make an Impact When No One Knows Your Name. Nashville, Tenn: B&H Publishing, 2020.
Kauflin, Bob. Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God. Wheaton, Ill, 2008.
Lewis, C. S. Mere Christianity. London: Fount, 1997.
Lewis, C. S. Reflections on the Psalms. New York: Harcourt, Brace, 1958.
MacDonald, Gordon. Ordering Your Private World. Nashville, Tenn: W Publishing, 2017.
Moreland, James Porter, and Dallas Willard. Love Your God with All Your Mind: The Role of Reason in the Life of the Soul. Colorado Springs, Colo: NavPress, 1997.
Murray, David. Reset: Living Grace-Paced Life in a Burnout Culture. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway, 2017.
Peterson, Eugene H. A Long Obedience In The Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society. Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 2000.
Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Colorado Springs, Colo: Multnomah, 2011.
Piper, John. Don't Waste Your Life. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books, 2003.
Reinke, Tony. 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway: 2017.
Ryan, Austin. The Radical Worship Solution: igniting the Heart of Your Team. Las Vegas, Nev: Worship Catalyst, 2015.
Sanford, David (Editor). Mosaic: Holy Bible. Carol Stream, Ill: Tyndale House, 2009.
Sproul, R. C. The Holiness of God. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 1985.
Towzer, A.W. Delighting in God, Bloomington, Minn: Bethany House, 2015.
Wiersbe, Warren. God Isn’t in a Hurry: Learning to Slow Down and Live. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 1994.
Willard, Dallas. The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1988.
*I believe that evangelism and discipleship should not be two separate functions of disciple-making, however, some books are written within these separate distinctions. Therefore, I have two categories here.