I am a book guy. I may like books more than I like reading, but that is a different post. Recently, I have come across some great reads that have been very helpful. I thought I would share some as suggestions for you on your journey.
Discipleship, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is not a new read for me, but this is perhaps my favorite book ever, and I completed in once again a few weeks ago. It is essentially an in-depth exposition of the Sermon on the Mount. It is deeply theological and deeply practical. I try to read this book at least once a year. I recommend the more expensive but more helpful Bonhoeffer Works edition which has helpful footnotes and a great introduction.
Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy, by Eric Metaxas. Sticking with the Bonhoeffer theme, this newer biography is an incredible read that approaches Bonohoeffer’s life from a bit more of a historical perspective than Eberhard Bethge’s biography. Whereas Bethge wrote as a student and friend of Bonhoeffer, Metaxas writes as a historian and theologian. This was a great read that really allowed me to see the struggle present in Bonhoeffer’s life over how church intersects life.
With Open Hands, by Henri Nouwen. This is a fantastic little book on prayer. It is simple and profound. I found it incredibly helpful in expanding my understanding of prayer.
Faith Without Illusions, by Andrew Byers. As a 30-year-old Christian who has grown up in the church, this book might be one of the most important books that I have read in terms of understanding how I perceive the church and Christianity in general. This is a must read for anyone who works with young adults. It is deep, but it is incredibly helpful in the way that it answers some of the questions of why we think the way that we think. Written by a Beeson Divinity School graduate, I often found myself in Andrew’s story.
Journey of Faith 