This article presents a list of thirty Christian books that are considered essential reading by Chad Harrington, a book publisher at HIM Publications. The list is not ranked in order of importance, but it is suggested that readers start with the first book and work their way down.
The books cover a range of topics, from pre-gospel to gospel to spiritual formation, and are believed to be valuable and important reads for Christians in North America and beyond.
1. Hearing God by Dallas Willard
In his book Hearing God, Dallas Willard guides Christians on how to develop a conversational relationship with God. The book offers practical advice with clarity and conviction, making it one of the most impactful books for Christians seeking to discern God’s voice.
Willard’s teachings have the power to transform lives, as evidenced by the author’s personal experience. This book is a must-read for anyone who desires to cultivate a deeper connection with God and hear His voice.
2. The Bible in One Sitting without Chapter or Verse Divisions
Reading a book of the Bible in one sitting without chapter or verse divisions can be a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the text. By removing the headers and divisions, readers can more easily follow the flow of the author’s argument, and gain a better sense of the overall message.
For example, the book of Ephesians can be read in this way through Bible Gateway. This approach can be particularly helpful for those who may struggle with scriptural literacy, as it allows them to engage with the text in a more immersive way. Many have found this method to be a powerful tool for gaining new insights into the Scriptures.
3. The Most Reluctant Convert by David C. Downing
David C. Downing’s book, “The Most Reluctant Convert,” provides readers with an in-depth look at C.S. Lewis’s journey from atheism to Christianity. Downing’s writing style is informative and encouraging, making it easy for readers to understand Lewis’s story.
The book delves into how the Inklings, a literary group that included J.R.R. Tolkien, played a role in Lewis’s conversion. Additionally, Downing explains how Lewis’s love for mythology helped him become a Christian. Overall, “The Most Reluctant Convert” is a must-read for anyone interested in C.S. Lewis’s life and works.
4. Confessions by Saint Augustine
Confessions by Saint Augustine is a timeless Christian autobiography that tells the story of how a man who lived a life of sin found God. The book provides readers with a unique perspective on the journey from sin to salvation and offers an opportunity to connect better with their own stories.
The book has stood the test of time and is a classic that every Christian should read. Reading this book can help readers encounter God and gain a deeper understanding of their faith.
5. The Attributes of God by A.W. Tozer
Tozer’s book, The Attributes of God, provides a deep understanding of the immanence of God. By articulating God’s attributes, Tozer leaves an indelible impression of who God is. The book teaches that simply understanding and gazing at God’s qualities fosters one’s affections for Him. Tozer’s work is a gift worth the read, as it helps readers gain a better comprehension of God’s nature.
6. When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett
Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett’s book, When Helping Hurts, offers a valuable perspective on helping the poor. The authors, drawing on their experiences and Scriptural understanding, caution against the potential harm that can come from misguided attempts to help.
They provide a framework for understanding appropriate ways to offer assistance to those who are materially poor. The book is especially relevant for North Americans and Christians from wealthy countries. The authors’ insights are a powerful reminder that good intentions are not enough and that it is essential to approach helping others with humility and a willingness to learn.
7. Anchors for the Soul by John Mark Hicks
In his book, Anchors for the Soul, John Mark Hicks shares his personal experiences of loss, pain, and heartache. This resource provides valuable insights and guidance for Christians who may face similar challenges in life.
The book, accompanied by a video course, can help individuals navigate through the difficult times and help others who are currently experiencing any form of loss. The author’s personal story of tragedy and his ability to overcome it with faith and hope make this book a relevant and vital resource for most Christians.
Anchors for the Soul equips readers with the necessary tools to deal with life’s challenges and to find comfort in their faith.
8. Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Life Together is a timeless classic that provides practical guidance on how Christians should live in community. Written from the perspective of an underground church member during Nazi Germany, Bonhoeffer’s principles still apply today.
This book serves as a handbook to prepare individuals for a deeper life of fellowship with other believers. It emphasizes the importance of humility, listening, and forgiveness in building strong Christian communities. Bonhoeffer’s insights are invaluable to anyone seeking to live a more authentic Christian life.
9. I and Thou by Martin Buber
In his book I and Thou, Martin Buber, a Jewish philosopher, emphasizes the importance of seeing people, events, and opportunities through the lens of love instead of treating them as objects. Buber argues that our interactions with the world can be divided into two categories: I-It and I-Thou.
The I-It relationship is characterized by objectification and detachment, while the I-Thou relationship is characterized by genuine connection and mutual recognition. Buber’s ideas can be applied to all aspects of life, including academic writing.
By viewing one’s topic and sources with an I-Thou perspective, the writer can approach their work with greater empathy and understanding, leading to a more nuanced and insightful analysis.
10. The Reason for God by Timothy Keller
Timothy Keller’s book, The Reason for God, provides readers with a compelling and convincing exploration of the objective reasons for God’s existence and goodness. Keller encourages readers to embrace their doubts about God and delve deeper into them, rather than suppressing them. This book is a valuable resource for Christians who are going through a period of doubt and seeking to deepen their faith.
11. The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan
In his book The Rest of God, Mark Buchanan emphasizes the importance of Sabbath as a means of restoring one’s soul. After reading the book, many readers have come to the conclusion that the commandment to rest still applies today, and that Christians need to take a 24-hour Sabbath. Buchanan’s book sheds light on the biblical concept of rest, and has been life-changing for many readers.
The book encourages readers to take a break from the busyness of life and to rest in God. Buchanan highlights the importance of rest and how it can help Christians to be more productive and effective in their lives. The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the importance of Sabbath and how it can help them to live a more fulfilling life.
12. The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book, The Cost of Discipleship, challenges readers to examine their commitment to following Christ. Originally titled Nachfolge in German, the book was written in response to Bonhoeffer’s observation of a watered-down version of Christianity in Europe leading up to WWII. In the book, Bonhoeffer calls for a return to true discipleship and emphasizes the importance of obedience to Christ’s teachings, even when it comes at a great cost.
13. Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard
In his book, Renovation of the Heart, Dallas Willard provides a unique perspective on the biblical concept of human nature. Willard offers a responsible and refreshing interpretation of biblical texts and practices to help readers understand the difference between “heart” and “soul.”
He guides readers through the process of spiritual formation and explains how God renovates the human heart. This book is an intensely helpful resource for those seeking to understand how spiritual formation works.
14. Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala
In his book, Jim Cymbala shares the story of how the Holy Spirit brought a revival to his church, Brooklyn Tabernacle. Through prayer, the people of his church experienced a powerful move of God that transformed their lives.
This book serves as an inspiration to churches to pray and seek God for a special work in their midst. The story of Brooklyn Tabernacle reminds us that God is still in the business of performing miracles and bringing revival to His people.
15. The Challenge of Jesus by N.T. Wright
In his book, The Challenge of Jesus, N.T. Wright presents his fundamental ideas about the historical figure of Jesus. This book is a great introduction to Wright’s thinking and is highly recommended for most Christians.
While an academic version of the book, Jesus and the Victory of God, is available for more enthusiastic readers, The Challenge of Jesus provides a concise overview of Wright’s core ideas on the significance of the kingdom of God to the Christian faith. Through this book, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the vitality of the Christian faith and the historical context of Jesus’ life and teachings.
16. The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
“The Practice of the Presence of God” is a book that takes readers into the world of Brother Lawrence, a Christian mystic who found joy and contentment in the ordinary moments of his life. Through his meditations, readers can learn to experience God’s presence in the mundane experiences of their own lives.
By practicing being present with God in every moment, Brother Lawrence found a sense of peace that can inspire readers to do the same. This book is an excellent resource for those seeking to deepen their spiritual lives and find joy in the simple things.
17. Revival Starts Here by Dave Clayton
In his book Revival Starts Here, Dave Clayton shares his experience with Awaken Nashville, a movement that encouraged over 400 churches to pray and fast for the lost in Nashville by name. The initiative was so successful that in 2020, over 700 churches participated and prayed for eight people they knew by name for 30 days.
Clayton’s book equipped tens of thousands of Christians with the inspiration and knowledge to pray and fast together, resulting in a remarkable display of unity and faith. Through his work, Clayton has helped ignite a revival in Nashville and inspire Christians across the country to come together in prayer and action.
18. Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton
Chesterton’s Orthodoxy is a must-read for anyone looking for spiritual development. In this book, he presents the fundamental principles of the gospel in a refreshing way. Chesterton’s perspective on the role of beauty and mirth in the life of a Christian is both intriguing and insightful.
As a friend and mentor of C.S. Lewis, Chesterton’s ideas have had a significant impact on the Christian community. Journey with Chesterton through this intriguing book and discover the beauty of Christian faith.
19. Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
In his book “Mere Christianity,” C.S. Lewis eloquently presents basic arguments for Christianity. Originally given as radio talks during WWII, this modern classic apologetics book offers a compelling perspective on the faith. Lewis’s “Liar, Lunatic, or Lord” argument for believing in Christ is particularly noteworthy. “Mere Christianity” is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.
20. The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
Henri Nouwen’s book, The Return of the Prodigal Son, offers readers a deep encounter with God’s compassionate love through his reflections on Rembrandt’s famous painting of the prodigal son from Luke 15.
The author’s compassionate perspective and insightful reflections make this book a masterpiece. Nouwen guides readers to explore the depths of God’s love, and his work is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God. Through this book, readers can gain a fresh experience of God’s love and encounter God in a new and profound way.
21. Desiring God’s Will by David G. Benner
David G. Benner’s book, Desiring God’s Will, is an important resource for Christians seeking to deepen their discipleship journey. Benner, who is both a Christian and a clinical psychologist, argues that our desires play a crucial role in our spiritual growth.
Through his clear and persuasive writing, he encourages readers to embrace their desires and use them to draw closer to God. For those struggling to reconcile their head and heart in their walk with God, Benner’s work offers valuable insights and guidance.
22. Real-Life Discipleship by Jim Putman
Real-Life Discipleship, authored by Jim Putman, is a book that emphasizes the importance of relationships in discipleship. Jim’s church in Post Falls, Idaho, served as the inspiration for this book. The book highlights the essential premise of Jim’s message for the modern church, which is that discipleship requires relationship.
Jim also outlines the pathway for living a life of relational discipleship. While Jim acknowledges that his church is not perfect, he emphasizes that the people are authentic. The book offers practical guidance on how to establish and maintain relationships that foster discipleship.
23. Humility by Andrew Murray
Andrew Murray’s book Humility is a powerful tool for those struggling with pride. This short yet impactful book offers a fresh perspective on the importance of humility in one’s life. Murray’s light and inviting tone make it easy for readers to connect with the message and to be inspired to embrace Jesus’ way of humility.
By acknowledging the need for humility, readers can avoid the pitfalls of pride and experience a more fulfilling life. Humility is a must-read for anyone seeking to live a more humble and fulfilling life.
24. A Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards
A Tale of Three Kings is a book that retells the biblical stories of King David, King Saul, and Absalom in a fictional way. It explores the dynamics of authority and submission, particularly in the context of brokenness.
The book is a must-read for any Christian, especially those in leadership positions. The author emphasizes God’s heart for a humble and broken heart that does not seek to harm the “Lord’s anointed,” even when there are human reasons to do so. The book offers a unique perspective on leadership and brokenness, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand these concepts.
Summary
Christian literature has a rich history and has been widely influential in shaping the beliefs and practices of Christians around the world. Some of the most notable Christian books include the Bible, “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by John Bunyan, “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis, and “The Cost of Discipleship” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. These books offer valuable insights into the Christian faith and are highly recommended for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Christianity.