Of Books There Is No End

I don’t know about you, but I think it’s fair to say that books have been an absolutely essential part of my life. There’s something about spending time inside the pages of a good book that is immensely satisfying. So, with that in mind, I thought I would share with you twelve writings (not counting the Bible itself) that I have read which have all contributed towards making a significant difference in my life and faith.

Systematic Theology (1947) by Lewis Sperry Chafer – As a young Christian I devoured these eight (8) volumes. They probably did more to ground my faith than any other writing.

My Utmost for His Highest (1937) by Oswald Chambers – This is a devotional classic that should be on everyone’s shelf and deserves to be read and re-read throughout one’s life.

Mere Christianity (1943) by C. S. Lewis – I cannot imagine how anyone can become a vibrant Christian without becoming familiar with Lewis, and this little book is a perfect place to start.

Knowing God (1973) by J. I. Packer - A truly wonderful book that has helped thousands of people understand what it means to know God, through the revelation of His Word.

The God Who Is There (1968) by Francis Schaeffer - Schaeffer taught evangelicals to become engaged with culture, art, and the world of ideas. Everything he wrote is well worth reading.

Basic Christianity (1971) by John R. W. Stott - Many new converts got their first introduction to theology from this succinct but profound overview of Christian doctrine.

Marriage to a Difficult Man: The Uncommon Union of Jonathan & Sarah Edwards (1971) by Elizabeth Dodds – If you love history and romance, this book has it. And if you want an appreciation of the value of a godly family, this book will give you that as well.

Darwin's Black Box (1996) by Michael Behe – This once obscure, but now famous biochemist proves, with hard scientific evidence, that on the smallest, most irreducible scale, life is not random. We are no accident. We are here by God’s design and created for His purposes.

Heaven (2004) by Randy Alcorn – This is one of those books that is at times hard to get through because of its detail and complexity, but once you’ve read it you will be glad you did.

Wild at Heart (2006) by John Eldridge – This book needs to be read more than once by every male who wants to know what Christian manhood is truly all about. It will also give any woman who is interested a look inside the true heart of a man.

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren – This is probably the best book you could ever read if you’re looking for an easy to read overview of what the Christian life is all about.

A History of the U.S. Army Chaplaincy (1979) produced by The U.S. Army Chaplain’s Center and School for the U.S. Bicentennial Celebrations. As a National Guard Chaplain, these seven (7) volumes helped me understand and appreciate my place in the world of military chaplaincy.

By the way, before I close I should mention that we have a book club at our church.  We usually read through about one book every 3-4 months, and then we get together to discuss it for an hour or so on a Sunday afternoon.  If you would ever like to be a part of one of our sessions, just call the church office (860-875-2559) to find out what the next book is and when the discussion is going to be.