Occasionally I use one of my Jym Shorts articles to let you know what some of the staff and/or elders have on their reading desks. I do this not to say “look at what we are doing,” but to simply encourage you to be reading good books both for your edification and your enjoyment. Reading, sadly, is becoming a bit of a lost art in our culture. I don’t believe books will ever go away, but with our culture’s fascination with all things fast, bright, and computer generated, we are seeing a steady decline in those who read books. I think it is good for us to know what many who are in leadership at LifePoint are reading in order to keep their faith both informed and sharp. With that being said, here’s what the pastoral staff, along with Mary Veal, our Director for Children’s Ministry, have recently read, along with a brief explanation of the book. You may just see something here that will spark an interest for you as well.
Pastor Tony:
Gospel Treason: Betraying the Gospel with Hidden Idols, by Brad Bigney
This is an incredible book concerning rooting out the idols in our hearts through genuine repentance and applying the gospel to our lives. This leads to genuine worship of God rather than superficial outward change that does not please God. The author uses wonderful illustrations that make his teaching very clear to the reader.
Pastor Nate:
Faith Alone: The Doctrine of Justification, by Thomas Schreiner
This book delves into the very heart of Reformation theology and the pillar of Protestantism. It is a brief survey on the historicity of the subject and an analysis of where the doctrine currently stands and what challenges threaten it. A particular amount of the analysis is dedicated to the ‘new perspective’ on Paul. It is a good reminder of the importance of the doctrine we hold so dear and the contributions of many theologians who battled vociferously for it.
Pastor Ethan:
Turning to God, by David Wells
A Biblical look at the nature of conversion. David Wells looks at what Scripture says about the supernatural inward work of saving faith, as well as how this may look outwardly to others depending on the culture in which it takes place and the person who comes to faith.
Mary Veal:
Hearts of Fire, by The Voice of the Martyrs
This book tells the stories of eight women from different countries who have all been persecuted because of their decisions to follow Christ and live for him. The book encourages us to remember to pray regularly for our sisters who are being tormented physically, emotionally, sexually, and spiritually.
Pastor Chris:
Delighting in the Trinity, by Michael Reeves
Reeves shows that everything we know and experience as Christians, from the person and work of Christ, to our salvation, to our ability to live the Christian life, is rooted in the Trinity.
Pastor David:
Not By Sight, by Jon Bloom
A book that provides a fresh look at old stories of walking by faith. Each short chapter is the recounting of the faith of a biblical character and God’s interaction and dealings with him/her. Very insightful!
Pastor Jym:
The Whole Christ, by Sinclair Ferguson
This book deals with how we as Christians interact with God’s law, revisiting an old but serious controversy that arose in Scotland in the eighteenth century known as the Marrow Controversy. A wonderful book that explores the relationship between law and gospel which largely shapes how we approach evangelism, our own sanctification and our understanding of who God really is.
If you ever have questions about good reads that can be read in addition to your regular devotions in the Scriptures, don’t hesitate to ask me or any of our pastors/elders.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Jym