September '09 Reading

Preaching And Preachers; D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones.

I've been wanting to read this book for quite some time and thanks to a good friend lending me his copy I finally got around to it. That same friend has graciously ordered me my own copy. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you spend any time at all in the pulpit, this is a must read. As is usually the case with the doctor, he delivers the goods as only he can. In reading, I felt as if Lloyd-Jones was preaching to me. The chapter "Calling for Decisions" alone is worth the price of the whole. Once my own copy arrives, I look forward to marking it up and reading it again and again.

The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment; Tim Challies.

If you're familiar with Challies at all you have more than likely heard about his book. If you're not even aware of who Tim Challies is then two things are clear:

1. You don't blog
2. You don't read blogs

Much more could be said, but apparently you would never see it. Back to the book - it was really good, but...

What I mean by the "but" is that it seemed to lack well Challies. I guess that I am so used to reading his blog and have grown accustomed to a certain style of writing - I feel that I know the blogging Tim - well I do know him, but you know what I mean, I hope. That said, I know that was not the intent of the book.

As for the book, it was excellent. So good in fact, I have made a plea for everyone in my congregation to read it. It is a message that is so needed in the Church today. If you or your people read this book you and they will be better equipped to spot error when it comes along. This is thoroughly biblical and yet practical. If you are a follower of Christ - read this book!

August '09 Reading

WHY WE'RE NOT EMERGENT: By Two Guys Who Should Be;Kevin DeYoung, Ted Kluck.

Outstanding! Very easy to read and very well written. The authors show grace on every page; they preach the truth in love - but sometimes the truth hurts. Really looking forward to hearing "Why {they} Love the Church.

The Truth War: Fighting For Certainty In An Age Of Deception; John MacArthur.

MacArthur is straight forward and brutally honest in his defense of the Truth. In typical MacArthur fashion he is thoroughly biblical, wielding the sword of truth like few can. This should be required reading for every church. One suggestion - don't read it right after "Why We're Not Emergent" like I did!

Spectacular Sins: And Their Global Purpose in the Glory of Christ; John Piper.

The title alone makes one begin to think deeply about God; and that is a good thing! A robust understanding of the sovereignty of God in all things - including sin - can only benefit His children. Ultimately, we are brought to the foot of the cross in awe of what was accomplished there. I thought my vision of Christ was big until I read this book.

JUST DO SOMETHING; Kevin DeYoung.

If you haven't yet read this book - repent - and then get it! Don't pray about it or wait for a "liver shiver" just read it. The most common question in the "church" today is, "what is God's will for my life?" Kevin DeYoung gives us the answer - the biblical answer. The next time I get asked that question, this is the book I will recommend without hesitation.

Finally Alive: What Happens When We Are Born Again?; John Piper.

I love John Piper. This is quite possibly the best book he has written - that says a lot in itself. It is without question, his most important work to date. The doctrine of the new birth is so majestic and so beautiful and so hidden to so many "professing" Christians! "God is the great Doer in this miracle...And He has not been silent about it." This will be required reading in the church I shepherd.

Love in the Truth.