Books I Read in 2023

Here is my annual annotated list of books I read for the year.

1) The God Who Is There by Francis Schaeffer

This is my second time reading through the Schaeffer classic. If Schaeffer doesn’t always accurately represent the philosophers and artists he critiques, he nonetheless does a great job of arguing for a comprehensive Christian worldview.

2) Punk Rock and Philosophy ed. by Joshua Heter and Richard Greene

It’s two things I love! Admittedly a niche book, but I really enjoyed reading these essays and reflecting on the subject as a whole. Peter and Greene have done a commendable job pulling together topics and authors for a fun, insightful, and unique book.

3) Escape from Reason by Francis Schaeffer

Schaeffer keenly anticipated postmodernism before it fully arrived. Again, Schaeffer isn’t always accurate in his evaluations of philosophers, but he does a good job of showing the importance of reason and the ways in which a comprehensive Christian worldview provides answers to our modern world.

4) I Want to Escape: Reaching for Hope When Life is Too Much by Rush Witt

This is a great little counseling book on helping people navigate the impulse to escape by turning to the Lord for comfort and strength. A useful tool in counseling and in my own heart.

5) Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture by Christopher Watkin

This is one of the best books I have read. It’s breadth and depth are profound. Part systematic theology, part philosophy, part critical theory, it is a unique contribution to the current literature on cultural apologetics. Watkin has provided readers with a powerful and compelling framework for engaging our world as Christians. Watkins writes with the spirit of Francis Schaeffer, but with the scholarship and tone of Tim Keller. This is not just a helpful book, but a powerful one! It is not for the faint of heart. Sitting at _____ pages, and full of deep thought, it does ask that the reader stay engaged and have some basic knowledge of philosophical categories. Nonetheless it is a rewarding book and all who venture into its pages will come away with something! I highly recommend this work!

6) He Is There and He Is Not Silent by Francis Schaeffer

The final work in the so-called Schaeffer trilogy is an argument of the existence of God. Schaeffer explores the metaphysical, moral, and epistemological grounds for the God who is there. A great example of apologetics grounded in the cultural moment and cultural need.

7) Overcoming Compulsive Hoarding: Why You Save & How You Can Stop by Fugen Neziroglu, Jerome Bubrick, and Jose A. Yaryura-Tobias

While this is a secular work I actually found it incredibly insightful and useful. It was a great resource not merely in describing the problem but in offering some specific practical strategies for overcoming hoarding. There was a lot here that I have already been able to implement in my own counseling practice. 

8) Help! Someone I Love Is A Hoarder by Todd Sorrell

I did not care for this book. Sorrell certainly knows the Scriptures and seems to love those who struggle with hoarding, but this approach strikes me as incredibly simplistic. He views hoarding as closely related to greed, discontentment, and an idolatry of possessions, and thus applies both Scripture and counsel to the issue through that lens. So, I think he is too simplistic at the conceptual level, but on the practical level is nearly devoid of suggestion. When it comes to making a recommendation on decluttering a hoarders home, he simply describes how in one case he prayed a lot for the hoarders and how a team of people helped them discard items. There is no discussion of how he helped the couple sort through their emotions, how they navigate the couple’s resistance to discarding items, or how they worked to prevent either ongoing accumulation or relapse. It’s just one short paragraph about how people from the church cleaned their house. I can appreciate that a booklet style resource is only able to give so much help, but I found this resource to be lacking both in an understanding of the problem and in its proposed plan of treatment. 

9) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 15: Leatherhead by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

A nice break from the foot-clan action in previous volumes, this one takes the turtles back to dimension X. Well written, loads of action, and a nice amount of sci-fi.

10) Remade in Christ: 90 Meditations on Becoming Who You Already Are by Paul Tautges

A simple introduction to the basics of Christian identity. Rich in Biblical texts and accessible to the newest believer. Krista and I were delighted to write an endorsement for this devotional.

11) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 16: Chasing Phantoms by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

Eh, this volume was just okay. The bad guys in this volume aren’t very interesting and the story lacked a bit of development.

12) The Attributes of God by A.W. Pink

Such a great little devotional study on the character of God. Pink’s language is a bit dated, but the work is so theologically rich and encouraging. 

13) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 17: Desperate Measures by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

The focus on internal and psychological conflicts makes this a compelling volume. Add to that the human war against mustangs and you’ve got some good action too.

14) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 18: Trial of Krang by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

I have enjoyed each of the sci-fi based volumes in this IDW run. The return to Dimension X and the concluding story arc on Krang is a great read.

15) Treatment for Hoarding Disorder by Gail Steketee and Randy O. Frost

This volume was just okay. It had some helpful data and some useful treatment ideas, but overall I think the other volumes I have read on hoarding were more profitable. 

16) Buried in Treasures: Help for Compulsive Acquiring, Saving, and Hoarding by David F. Tolin, Randy O. Frost, Gail Steketee

This was another good volume on the subject. The assessment tools in the book were particularly useful.

17) Shame: Being Known and Loved by Esther Liu

A fantastic guide on navigating our own sense of shame with a firm grip on the gospel! 

18) Francis Schaeffer and the Shaping of Evangelical America by Barry Hankins

This is a fantastic biography and critical examination of the life and ministry of Francis Schaeffer. Hankins celebrates the legacy of Francis Schaeffer without resorting to hagiography. He can honor the man’s influence and impact without ignoring his shortcomings. I learned a lot about Schaeffer the man: his insecurities, his depression and separatism, his passion for the lost, and his prophetic voice. This is one of the best and most thorough treatments of Schaeffer that I have read to date and I highly recommend it. Well-written, with a great flow and thoughtful outline, and heavily influenced by first-hand sources. A great and insightful read.

19) Deacons: How They Serve and Strengthen the Church by Matt Smethurst

Our elder board read this book together in an effort to evaluate how we are utilizing deacons in our ministry. It’s a well-written book that is grounded in Scripture and full of great examples of deaconate ministry. I found it easy to read and informative. 

20) Facilitating Counseling Groups: A Leader’s Guide for Group Based Counseling Ministry by Brad Hambrick and John Chapman

Krista and I were asked to read an early edition of this book and write an endorsement for it. We were so thrilled to do that because Brad’s work in support groups has been so helpful to our practice. This is a fantastic guide for facilitating a groups ministry and I don’t know of anything that is as thorough and yet adaptable. 

21) Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation As An Exercise In Hope by Esau McCaulley

A fascinating and brilliant exploration of themes particularly relevant to black American lives from the perspective of Scripture. McCaulley not only challenges some common interpretations but demonstrates how the Bible, despite what some critics have said, is for black men and women. I am not the target audience for this book but I found it illuminating and uplifting nonetheless. 

22) Schaeffer on the Christian Life: Countercultural Spirituality by William Edgar

This is my second time reading this book. It’s such a helpful exploration of key ideas in Schaeffer’s thought, and from one of his closest friends. Well-written, thorough, and focused.

23) Personality & Worldview by J.H. Bavinck

I confess this is a bit of a dense read, but it’s very insightful treatment of the subject of worldviews. Johan Bavinck (not to be confused with his uncle Herman Bavinck) offers explanations of the concept, articulations of its value, and critiques of it as well. Both those who love worldviews and who have a distaste for the concept will find this a thought-provoking book.

24) True Spirituality by Francis Schaeffer

This was an okay book. It’s written in a rather clunky manner. It feels like the chapters were originally lessons that Schaeffer taught and only later transferred into a book format. Nonetheless, there is good content here. Particularly, Schaeffer’s focus on a practiced faith is an important reminder and emphasis. 

25) Caring for Families Caught in Domestic Abuse ed. by Chris Moles

Krista and I were asked to endorse this book and I am so grateful to have gotten the chance to read it. It is, hands down, the most comprehensive treatment of abuse from a Biblical Counseling perspective available. It was informative and empowering for me as a counselor and pastor. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

26) Death to Deconstruction: Reclaiming Faithfulness As An Act of Rebellion by Joshua S. Porter

A gritty and witty response to deconstructionism by a pastor who himself had deconstructed, and found his way back to faith. Porter’s work is part theological memoir and part apologetic. It is well written, even if I don’t love his Open Theism.

27) Can Women Be Pastors? by Greg Gilbert

Often when I read Complimentarians on this subject I walk away feeling annoyed. Despite representing my view these books often frustrate me. I did not have that experience, however, with Greg’s book. Overall, I think he does a good job of grounding this issue within a theological and textual framework that is robust. I don’t agree with all that he says. I continue to find the standard interpretation of Genesis 3:16 highly problematic. While there is much that this work does not address, due to size, nonetheless I think this is a decent little booklet.

28) I Have a Psychiatric Diagnosis: What Does the Bible Say? by Edward T. Welch

A good book, and Dr. Welch, as usual, has brilliant insights. But I wasn’t really clear on who the audience was and therefore not sure how best to use this book in counseling. It’s not a guide for specific issues and yet it’s not thorough enough as a presentation on mental disorders. It is neither a training manual nor a guide through suffering. It’s still a good read, though.

29) Deserted By God?: Understanding the Ways of God Through the Experience of the Psalmists by Sinclair Ferguson

Ferguson walks readers through select Psalms to offer up counsel from Scripture on various types of sorrow. Sorrow from chronic illness, sorrow from sin, sorrow from oppression, sorrow from the woes of life. It’s a really good book and he does a great job of both exegeting and applying the text. There are some Psalms, however, where I think Ferguson allows his own interpretation to lead him away from what the text communicates and therefore he applies it in ways that I don’t think match the divine intent. I would have handled some of these Psalms differently, but overall it’s still a good book.

30) Sexual Obsession in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment by Monica T. Williams and Chad T. Wetterneck

A very thorough guide for clinicians on helping people with this particular manifestation of OCD. The book provides a foundational understanding of sexual obsessions, assessments, and treatment guides. Obviously as a Christian and a Biblical Counselor there’s more that I would want to do in treatment, but there’s some usefulness to such a comprehensive work by competent professionals who have done a lot of this type of counseling.

31) Treating Suicidal Clients & Self-Harm Behaviors by Megan N. Houston

This is a good workbook with some really helpful tools. Obviously I want to offer more in terms of a robust framework and motivation for those suffering, but the book does have some valuable insights and practical exercises.

32) A Counseling Commentary on Philippians by Brad Hambrick & Marilyn Marrero

This was an absolute gem of a devotional guide. Not only does Brad walk through the text of Philippians but he does so with a therapeutic eye. He highlights things about the text and applications of it that I had not considered. I was really encouraged by this volume personally and plan to use it in counseling others as well.

33) Chronic Illness: Walking By Faith by Esther Smith

A fantastic guide for navigating chronic illness with the Lord, written by someone who is walking that road too! This is obviously a focused and specific devotional, but honestly its principles and guidance are useful for anyone experiencing an enduring suffering (even if it’s not a physical pain). Worth the read for sure.

34) You’re Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God’s Design and Why that’s Good News by Kelly Kapic

A truly profound resource with loads of insights on living as embodied people. This is a book that honors the complexity and limitations of human bodies. Kapic helps us distinguish between sin and weakness in ways that can make great contributions to Christian living. I highly recommend this book!

35) But God, Wouldn’t I Be More Useful To You if I Was Healthy? by Esther Smith

A short and yet powerful little book on refraining our view of how suffering limits our ability to be “productive.” Smith, a chronic illness sufferer, writes with keen insight into the internal struggle people have when pain limits their productivity. She helps readers to turn to the Lord and to embrace the ways that he values them.

36) Be Well: Learning to Steward Your Health by Lainey Greer

A good little booklet that introduces readers to a theology of healthy living. Avoiding the pitfalls of ignoring the body or idolizing it, Greer gives theological foundations and practical tips for taking care of your physical form.

37) Handle with Care: How Jesus Redeems the Power of Touch in Life and Ministry by Lore Ferguson Wilbert

This was a such a surprising book for me. I had never heard of the author and only stumbled onto the book because it was referenced in another book, but it blew me away. Offering up a beautiful theology of touch, and a compelling vision of human contact, Wilbert gives readers a rich resource. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. 

38) When Chronic Pain & Illness Take Everything Away: How to Mourn Our Losses by Esther Smith

Esther writes with insight, experience, and compassion. I love these short and focused books that can serve as devotionals for those suffering.

39) Coping with Chronic Illness by H. Norman Wright and Lynn Ellis

This was a decent if not perfect volume. There are some really helpful discussions of various symptoms and life impacts related to chronic illness. The book isn’t as theologically-minded as I had hoped a Christian resource would be, but it has its moments.

40) When There Is No Cure: How to Thrive While Living with the Pain and Suffering of Chronic Illness by Craig Svensson

This was another really good book and one rich in both theological and practical help. As both a doctor and a sufferer, Svensson gives some unique and rich insight into things like nature of pain, faith struggles, and cognitive shifts .

41) Paul for Everyone: The Prison Letters by N.T. Wright

While not a very robust commentary, these little volumes from Wright are still rich and useful as devotional guides to the various letters of the New Testament. I love this whole series but was grateful to read this volume in particular. 

42) When Disability Hits Home by Paul Tautges

Full of both biographical and theological insight, Tautness shares his personal story with disability in his family and gives readers hope that can keep them grounded when trials come.

43) The Mark of the Christian by Francis Schaeffer

A pointed critique of loveless Christianity. Schaeffer points out that, according to Scripture, loving others is the way that the world will know we are Christians and know that Jesus came from the Father. But, far too often the church is not very loving. This short but focused exploration is as relevant today as it was when Schaeffer wrote it! It stands as one of my favorite Schaeffer works.

44) Playing God: Redeeming the Gift of Power by Andy Crouch

This is a stunning resource and one that I have thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from. Crouch gives us a framework for thinking about the proper and beneficial use of power, while also cautioning us against its misuses. As thorough a treatment of the subject as I have read.

45) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 19: Invasion of the Triceratons by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

Another good plot twist in the IDW series. I liked the exploration of the Triceratons and the ensuing battle between a range of waring parties.

46) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 20: Kingdom of Rats by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

What a fantastic story. The Rat King gets the most interesting development he has ever had in the franchise. Really enjoyed this villain and the role he is playing in this series. 

47) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 21: Battle Lines by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

This is just an okay volume. I liked the budding divisions among the turtles themselves, but other than that this volume didn’t tell the story as well as it could have. 

48) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 22: City at War, Pt 1 by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

The escalating drama of this volume made for such a compelling read. 

49) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vol. 23: City at War, Pt 2 by Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz

An absolutely beautiful climax to one of the best runs in modern comics. Drama, twists, tragedy, it’s all here. A great volume and a captivating end to this series.

50) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Reborn, vol. 1: From the Ashes by Sophie Campbell

This was an interesting story and it has potential. I liked exploring the inner emotional lives of the turtles. The ways that each is dealing with depression and disappointing and loneliness is fascinating. But the minimal action made it dry at times.

51) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Reborn, vol. 2: Life After Death by Sophie Campbell and Ronda Pattison

Again, the story holds potential and the development of a Mutant Town is interesting. But the plot doesn’t advance with any pace and it can be difficult to stay connected to the story. 

51) Pollution and the Death of Man by Francis Schaeffer

Despite being written in the seventies there’s much about this book that is still relevant. Schaeffer’s critique of the church regarding care for the environment is just as relevant. He lays a foundation for the Christian ecology from Scripture and doctrine, he explains why alternative views (humanist and pantheist specifically) are insufficient philosophically, and he offers some encouragement on the way forward. A good introduction to the subject of Christian ecology. 

52) The Soul of Shame: Retelling the Stories We Believe About Ourselves by Curt Thompson

This is my second time reading through this book. In preparation for our upcoming seminar on Shame in February I picked it up again. It’s a fantastic work with some interesting insights into shame, the power of personal narrative, and neurobiology. I have some issue with Thompson doctrine at times – I think his views on sin are often shallow – but there’s some real value in this book.