I’ve read a few books lately that I can highly recommend. They all blessed me in their unique ways.
The Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
Excellent book. Nouwen sees a painting by Rembrandt of the famous parable, and it sends him on a deep spiritual journey. He delves deeply into the lost son, the older son, and the father. This book is very introspective, yet challenged me in very practical ways. Nouwen has this amazing way of being very honest, humble, and modest all at once. Supremely rare.
With Christ in the School of Prayer by Andrew Murray
Anyone interested in a greater understanding of prayer and intercession should consider reading this book. If I enjoy a book, I generally devour them. I can only read a couple chapters of this at a time. This book goes deep into issues of prayer that I am still immature in (to my mind). It is divided into 31 short chapters, ideally done once a day for a month as a devotion. I feel like I need to read this book a couple more times to make sure what he teaches becomes foundational in my life.
I believe prayer is that important and effective and believed it more after reading this book.
The Untold Story of the New Testament Church by Frank Viola
An excellent resource to help us better understand the New Testament story chronologically and contextually. The strength and meat of the book runs through the time period from Pentecost to the death of the Apostle John. He makes some amazing connections through historical and biblical research and the traditions of the early church writers.
Viola is a house church dude, so sometimes his agenda is fairly evident, but not overwhelmingly so. The vision we see of how the Church was spread and administrated is fairly simple and powerful, much removed from the modern idea that has become so convoluted and weak. I’m sure that was partly Viola’s point. I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone (house church dude or not) who wants to study the New Testament more in depth.
Save Me From Myself by Brian “Head” Welch
This is an autobiography from the former lead guitarist for the band Korn. It details his life up to and through his time with the band, his heavy drug and alcohol abuse, and how God pulled him out of it. I picked up this book from the library since I remember the press a couple years ago surrounding his conversion. This is an amazing story and very inspiring. I even choked up during one description of an experience he had with God. It is brutally honest and real.
Brian also details his struggles and growth as a Christian, which I found very compelling. He has a very interesting chapter dedicated to his exploration of speaking in tongues. Definitely check this story out if you ever have the time.
Quick note:
I never advocate reading books instead of the Bible. If you regularly read the scripture on your own (Bible studies and worship meetings don’t count), then feel free to expand your knowledge with these other books. But reading the Bible should always come first.
Peace.