Fall 2015 Reading List

Posted by Scott Palmer on 10 November 2015 | Comments

BOOKS FOR THE FALL

If we are going to be followers of Jesus who make an impact in our culture, we must love God not only with all our hearts but with all our minds. The most important way we develop our mind is by spending time in God’s word.  The most important reading time we have is when we are alone with God and His Word.  The apostle Paul put it this way, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.  It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.” II Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT) I want to encourage you to make time for the Lord and His word each day.

A second way that we develop our mind is by reading.  Not just reading anything but reading the right things.  Becoming familiar with what we believe and why we believe it is essential as followers of Jesus and reading the right books can be valuable in that process.   I want to share with you a few books that you might want to check out this fall. 

Apologetics:  “The Historical Jesus” by Gary R. Habermas

Habermas takes on directly the contemporary challenges to the historicity of Jesus and then he looks at the historical data for the life of Jesus. He delves into the primary sources, archeological sources, non-New Testament sources to show the overwhelming evidence for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

“The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus” By Gary Habermas and Michael R. Licona

The authors give the minimal facts.  There are facts that 95% all ancient historians believe to be true.  Those who are believers, non-believers, skeptics will affirm as ancient historical truths.  He shows the historical data for facts that give overwhelming evidence for the resurrection and deals with questions skeptics might have about the evidence.  His conclusion is that most plausible conclusion from all the historical evidence is that Jesus rose from the dead.   If you want to be encouraged in your faith take the time to go through the book.

Biography: “The Churchill Factor” by Boris Johnson

I love biographies and this is a good read on the life and times of Winston Churchill.  It shows how his leadership not only made a difference in World War II but how his life shaped history. 

Devotional: “In the Grip of Grace”  by Max Lucado

I read this book in preparing for our study through Romans on Sunday night and it is an encouraging book that reminds us of the Amazing Grace of God. It is an easy read and his opening on the parable of the river is very powerful. 

I hope you will check out our bookstore/library at OBC.  Christie Floyd is doing an awesome job of helping provide encourage Christ-centered reading for all ages to check out.  Our goal is to help you build a library in your life to build and strengthen your faith.  Enjoy your reading.

Pastor Scott