My Year in Books
I must admit, one of my favourite things about this time of year is not simply the lights, the carols and the gatherings (as good as those things are), but also the year-end lists. Whether it’s music, movies, or books, I enjoy reflecting on the year that’s been and the content that stood out above the rest. With that in mind, here are a few books I read this year that I found stimulating, enjoyable, and helpful, which I commend to you.
Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane Ortlund
A book that took the Christian world by storm, and for good reason! The heart of Christ is deep, wide and expansive, as Dane Ortlund so profoundly reveals. Drink deeply and slowly from this refreshing stream of life-giving water.
Seven Reasons to (Re)Consider Christianity by Ben Shaw
Ben finished this book shortly before he passed away from cancer aged 53. For this reason and more, this is not your average apologetics book. Ben offers fresh and insightful reasons in the face of real suffering to consider afresh the claims of Jesus and the coherence of the Christian worldview.
Be True to Yourself by Matt Fuller
This book is like a cup of loving, cold water to the face. The idea of expressive individualism is so deeply entrenched in our day we don’t even realise its influence on us. Matt opens our eyes and shows us a better way; the way of self-denial, which leads to true and lasting joy.
Family Discipleship: Leading Your Home Through Time, Moments, & Milestones
by Matt Chandler & Adam Griffin
If you’re looking for a practical guide to help raise your children to know and love Jesus, this is a book to read and apply. Deeply biblical and immensely practical. I’d also add that I am currently reading Parenting by Paul Tripp and have already been rocked by the first two chapters alone. It’s definitely another for parents to add to the list.
Need to Know: Your Guide to the Christian Life by Gary Millar
Gary Millar, principal of Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, covers a lot of helpful ground in this short book. If you’re looking for a concise, readable guide to navigating and living the Christian life, this is one to get and read. I’d also add Maturity by Sinclair Ferguson to that list, which I read this year and profited from greatly.
Other notable mentions:
Being the Bad Guys by Stephen McAlpine
How to Talk About Jesus (Without Being That Guy) by Sam Chan
The Secular Creed: Engaging Five Contemporary Claims by Rebecca McLaughlin
The Death of Porn: Men of Integrity Building a World of Nobility by Ray Ortlund
Adam
