Due to a wedding and some work related responsibilities I was unable to finish my anticipated book for the week. So in lieu of its absence I have posted here a reflection on some of my favorite books from the year with links their respective reviews. Look back next week for my review of Message in a Body by Joseph Anfuso.
1) Bad Religion: How We Became A Nation of Heretics by Ross Douthat. This has easily been my favorite read for the year. Douthat’s comprehensive study of the transformations in the religious culture of America since the 40s and 50s is engaging and insightful. As a pastor I found this book to be really helpful in painting a picture of the contemporary setting in which I find myself doing ministry. Check out my full review here.
2) Dallas and the Spitfire by Ted Kluck and Dallas Jahncke. This book was more than just funny and compelling, it was helpful from a ministry standpoint. By helping readers to see that discipleship is more than program and more than a once-a-week-cup-of-coffee the authors have better served the church than probably 90% of its so-called discipleship gurus. I loved this book and will surely be reading it again. Check out my full review here.
3) The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. The authors bizarre brand of spirituality only makes this book slightly less valuable. The truth, however, is that it is one of the most helpful books not just on creativity and art, but on discipline and focus. It is an author’s weapon against apathy and distraction. Totally worth reading. Check out my full review here.
4) The Intolerance of Tolerance by D.A. Carson. Carson’s ability to weave seamlessly between disciplines is what makes him such a quality academician and such an important voice for Christians today to listen to. I don’t have much political interest, it’s not a subject that captures my attention much. But Carson has written an important book and one that helps us better understand the context in which the church exists today. And his illustrations, anecdotes, and examples are compelling evidence to support the thesis of the work. This is an engaging and important read. Check out my full review here.
5) Real Marriage by Mark and Grace Driscoll. This book got probably more hype than it really deserved, but that doesn’t mean it was a bad book. In fact I enjoyed the read and found it helpful. His discussions on friendship will be invaluable for counseling couples. I certainly don’t agree with all he says, but it is a worthy read to be sure. Check out my full review here.
Sparrow & Heart Soul Care 