by Pastor Ron Nugent
Over the years several people have asked me to make a list of my favourite Christian books. In response to their requests, I have made three lists: my top ten biographies, my top ten books on the Christian life, and my top ten books for pastors. Below is the list of my favourite books on living the Christian life. It is of course a personal list and others would choose different titles. I have chosen books which I have found personally helpful and which are written for “the person in the pew” rather than for pastors and academics. I have not included older titles as I plan to make another list of my favourite Christian classics. Sadly, I have had to leave off my list several very helpful books which are now out of print. The books are listed in alphabetical order of their authors.
- John Blanchard, Right with God (Banner of Truth). This is the best book I know for explaining the gospel to non-Christians and new Christians.
- Jerry Bridges, Transforming Grace (Navpress). Jerry Bridges helps us to get off the performance treadmill and experience God’s transforming grace.
- John Chapman, Know and Tell the Gospel (Matthias Media). This book is a must read for every Christian who wants to learn how to share the gospel.
- D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Spiritual Depression (Eerdmans). A great physician of souls diagnoses the causes of spiritual depression and prescribes the cures.
- Kris Lundgaard, The Enemy Within (P&R). Kris Lundgaard teaches us how to fight and win the war against sin in language all of us can understand.
- Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Supernatural Living for Natural People (P&R). This exposition of Romans chapter eight teaches us how to live by the Spirit.
- John Piper, Desiring God (Inter-Varsity Press). John Piper reminds us that we find our deepest happiness in God and teaches us how to enjoy Him.
- Kenneth F.W. Prior, The Way of Holiness (Inter-Varsity Press). This is the best introduction to the biblical teaching on sanctification that I have seen.
- James S. Spiegel, How to Be Good in a World Gone Bad (Kregel). Gives practical steps for growing twenty-two virtues such as humility and kindness.
- Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life (Navpress). Gives practical guidance for such disciplines as prayer and meditation.