Recommended Readings for Disciples of Christ

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From Christian Classics Ethereal Library

http://ccel.org/index/reference.html

St. Augustine

The Confessions of St. Augustine -- The most popular work of the man who more than any other shaped western civilization. The first 10 chapters constitute a spiritual autobiography and some spiritual and philosophical reflections; the last three chapters are a reflection on the creation story of Genesis 1.

John Bunyan

Pilgrim's Progress -- A spiritual allegory. Of books written in English, one of the all-time most popular.

G. K. Chesterton

Orthodoxy -- Chesterton's writing reminds me of C.S. Lewis, but a little more colorful, a little more quirky. This book is an apology for the Christian world-view.

Jonathan Edwards

Religious Affections -- "What is the nature of true religion? . . . What are the distinguishing notes of that virtue and holiness that is acceptable in the sight of God?" In this classic work by America's greatest theologian and philosopher, Edwards considers the nature of revival and the genuine work of the Holy Spirit. Don't read this book if you want to keep worshipping your idols.

George Fox

Autobiography of George Fox -- This is a fascinating journal of the exploits of the founder of the Society of Friends (Quakers). It is also very illuminating about the political and religious state of seventeenth century England -- for example, Fox lives through the commonwealth period, meets Cromwell, and prophesies his downfall after he treats Quakers badly.

St. Ignatius of Loyola

The Spiritual Exercises -- Spiritual exercises arranged into 4 weeks, by the founder of the Jesuits.

St. John of the Cross

Ascent of Mount Carmel

Dark Night of the Soul -- The writings of St. John of the Cross are unsurpassed for mystical theology. The "dark night" is a must-read for anyone seriously concerned about growing spiritually.

Thomas à Kempis

The Imitation of Christ -- This book is said to have been published in more editions than any other, apart from the Bible, with 6000 appearing by the turn of this century. This little devotional book is simply written but immensely moving. Highly recommended.

William Law

A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life -- This is one of two or three books that greatly influenced the young J. Wesley.

Brother Lawrence

The Practice of the Presence of God -- In this little collection of letters and reflections, Brother Lawrence encourages us to be continually in God's presence.

From Dave Roberts

Dallas Willard

The Divine Conspiracy -- Subtitled "Re-discovering our hidden life in God", this is an in-depth look at how culture has negatively influenced church and the importance of re-connecting with Jesus and His Gospel. (HarperCollins, copyright 1998)

John R. W. Stott

The Cross of Christ -- A "life work" on the meaning of the cross. (InterVarsity Press, copyright 1986)

R.C. Sproul

Knowing Scripture -- The science of interpretation with practical guidelines in simple, basic terms. (InterVarsity Press, copyright 1977)

Kenneth Boa

Conformed to His Image -- Biblical and practical approaches to discpleship. (Zondervan, copyright 2001)

from Dave Jarvis

John Stott

Basic Christianity -- very readable but very thoughtful and logical presentation of what it means to be a Christian.(InterVarsity Press, London, 1958, 1971)

John White

The Fight A Practical Handbook for Christian Living. (InterVarsity Press, 1976)

C.S. Lewis

Mere Christianity particularly good for those who like a rational approach.

from Monday Night Men's Group

William P. Young

The Shack -- Reading currently: A novel where "tragedy confronts eternity" and the character of God is revealed in ways that attempt to knock down many of our religious sacred cows.

C.S. Lewis

Mere Christianity -- Read by group Winter 2009: The heart of what all Christians believe presented in a logical, thoughtful and practical perspective.  A timeless work of the Christian faith.

Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart

How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth -- Reading currently: Learning to apply exegesis (discerning the message that was intended for the original audience) and hermeneutics (applying the intended message to today's world) to the Holy Bible.

Richard J. Foster

Celebration of Discipline / Path to Spiritual Growth -- Read by group Spring 2008: Diciplines to develop spiritual growth and grow closer to Christ.

J. I. Packer

Knowing God -- Read by group Fall 2007: A timeless classic about insight into the glory and joy of knowing God. (InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove 1973)

A. W. Tozer

The Pursuit of God -- Read by group Summer 2007:  Insight about developing a deep, abiding relationship with the One who "nourishes the soul." Called a "spiritual masterpiece", it exposes the roadblocks that keep us from fully knowing God, reveals our responsibility of the pursuit, and ultimately leads us into the very presence of God Himself. (Wingspread Publishers)

C. S. Lewis

The Screwtape Letters -- Read by group Spring of 2007:  Satire written from the point of view of Screwtape, a highly placed demon in Satan's army of devils.  In letters written by Screwtape to an underling "tempter" he describes the insidious ways used by God's enemies to keep us from finding faith in Christ.  Very insightful about human character, our relationship to God and to the devil.  (HarperOne; New Ed edition, February 5, 2001)

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Life Together -- Read by group Winter of 2007:  Deep, thoughtful treatise about Christian community focused completely on Jesus Christ, His grace, redemption and active mediation in our lives.  Through careful discussion of personal prayer, worship in common, everyday work, and Christian service Bonhoeffer opens new pathways for enriching Christian community.  (HarperSanFrancisco May 1993)