One of the things I appreciate so much about this church family is that we are learners.  We love to study God’s Word and to read the material of gifted teachers to enhance our understanding.  Frequently I hear someone say, “I was just reading…”  That always brings joy to a pastor, provided the material is from a biblically sound author.  Summer is a great time to read—whether sitting on the back porch sipping lemonade, or at the beach listening to the waves.  So, I thought I would share with you a summer reading list.  These are some of the books I have been reading lately and would recommend to you.

1. The Bible – Don’t go rushing to read a human author until you have spent significant time with the divine author.  There are many good books, but only one Word of God.  It alone is the sword of the Spirit and full of divine power.  If you would like some encouragement in your study of the Scriptures, join a pod (Life Transformation Group).  If you are not sure how to do this, give me a call.

2. A Place of Healing:  Wrestling With the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain, and God’s Sovereignty by Joni Eareckson Tada.  This is the best book I have read regarding this subject and by an author who certainly writes from a position of authority.

3. Just Courage:  God’s Great Expedition for the Restless Christian by Gary Haugen.  This book will open your eyes to a much larger perspective of what God is doing in the world and challenge you to participate.  It specifically focuses on God’s call for His Church to rescue those suffering injustice.

4. Revival’s Golden Key:  How to Share Your Faith Simply, Effectively, Biblically…the Way Jesus Did by Ray Comfort.  For decades now we have been taught to share the Gospel by beginning with “God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life…”  This book examines the tragic results of this approach and how it has shaped generations of self-centered, shallow Christians.  There is a better, biblical starting point for sharing our faith.

5. Erasing Hell:  What God Said About Eternity, and the Things We Made Up by Francis Chan.  I haven’t actually read this book yet as it just came out yesterday.  But I trust Chan and look forward to his perspective on hell in contrast to Rob Bell’s Love Wins.  Wait for a full endorsement until I read it, but I am expecting a solid, biblical treatment of this subject.

Happy reading!  Let me know what books you recommend.