When it comes to books that you should read as a Christian, of course, the first book that you should be reading is the Bible! However, sometimes books written by Christians outside of the Bible can be extremely helpful in gaining understanding and perspective on certain topics. Here are a few amazing books that every Christian should read.
1. Radical by David Platt
David Platt’s Radical is a book dedicated to unpacking what it truly means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was on this earth, He made a lot of shocking statements about what it would take to follow Him including that you must deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him. He even said at one point that if your eye causes you to sin, you should cut it out! Of course, He was speaking metaphorically in that case, but clearly, Jesus calls us to a radical lifestyle in following Him. This book seeks to unpack what that really looks like in our day.
2. The Relationship Principles of Jesus by Tom Holladay
Whether we realize it or not, our lives consist of the relationships that we have. Whether they are with parents, spouses, friends, or God Himself, our relationships are the only things that will last us through eternity. In fact, the two most important commandments that Jesus points out are both about relationships. Tom Holladay’s The Relationship Principles of Jesus looks at what Jesus said about relationships and how we can apply that daily in our lives.
3. Crazy Love by Francis Chan
When someone talks about God, usually the first attribute of who He is that pops into the conversation is that He is loving. However, do we truly understand God’s love for us? Do we really comprehend the depth of the love that Christ showed for us on the cross? Francis Chan’s Crazy Love is all about how relentless God is with His love towards us. It is a complete reality check as to how God sees us and how we should respond to that.
4. The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
The Screwtape Letters is a bit of a different pick compared to the rest on this list because it is a fictional novel. It follows the story of Wormwood, a senior demon, who is sending letters to his nephew, Screwtape, as Screwtape learns the ins and outs of tempting humans. Although it sounds odd to read from the perspective of the other side of the spiritual war, this novel gives great insight into how we often fall into temptation and how we can avoid it in our everyday lives.
5. I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by Frank Turek and Norman Geisler
To quote a reader, “This book presents evidence that demands a verdict that no sane/intelligent person can deny.” Whether you’re a veteran Christian or a new believer, I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist will be sure to strengthen and confirm your faith as it explores different worldviews through the lens of logic and reason. This is a perfect book for anyone finding themselves unsure or doubting of the existence of God and for those looking to dip their toes into the world of apologetics.