A Recommended Reading List
 This list is not
necessarily my ultimate "top ten" list, but a list of ten titles that have made
deep impressions upon me as a believer. I originally put this list together for
a friend and church member as a "good books to read" list. Therefore, my
comments are not exhaustive nor are my critiques. As with everything, remember
to be a faithful Berean and read with discernment.
ACTS 17:11 "Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for
they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to
see whether these things were so."
Systematic Theology
by Wayne Grudem (Zondervan, 1995)
This work is currently the "must have" Systematic Theology. Grudem
has the unique ability to explain complex doctrinal realities in an
understandable manner. In addition each chapter ends with application
questions and a hymn to incorporate a refreshing devotional flavor. Grudem
is a non-cessationist in his view of all of the miraculous gifts
(tongues, prophecy & miracles) a position we would not agree with.
This, however, does not diminish this work's enduring value.
Basic Bible Interpretation
by Roy B. Zuck (Chariot Victor, 2002)
I think this is by far the best book available on Bible interpretation. It is a “must read”.
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Knowing God
by J.I. Packer (IVP, 1993)
While Packer has had several strange alliances, this book is a true classic. If every believer could take the biblical truths brought out in this book and develop a proper view of God, many difficulties would take care of themselves.
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Our Sufficiency in Christ
by John MacArthur, Jr. (Word, 1991)
John MacArthur does a great job calling the church to believe what the Bible
teaches about Christ and His Word and therefore not believe teachings that
contradict. Issues like how Christians relate to demons and psychology come out
in this helpful book.
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The Case for Progressive Dispensationalism
by Robert L. Saucy (Zondervan, 1993)
Interestingly enough I would not consider myself a progressive
dispensationalist. This is due to others who use the title and mean
something very different by it. Yet when it comes to understanding the old
and new Testaments and God's plan for national Israel, I am convinced that this
book is a treasure. I disagree with Saucy's belief that Jesus currently
reigns from King David's throne.
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The Master's Plan for the Church
by John MacArthur, Jr. (Moody, 1991)
MacArthur has done us a great service by writing this book on matters
relating to the church, its purpose, and ministries. Elders, deacons,
discipline, preaching, men's and women's roles, and more are covered in an
easily digestible package.
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The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination
by Loraine Boettner (P&R, 1932)
What a book! For anyone grappling with the biblical issue of predestination, Boettner's treatment is unmatched. His Postmillennial perspective (which I would take issue with) comes up once or twice, but it is not a focus of the book.
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The Gospel According to the Apostles
by John MacArthur, Jr (Word, 1993)
Addressing the controversial issue of how faith and works relate, MacArthur does an outstanding job of reasoning from the Scriptures. From the foundation that salvation is through faith alone, it is argued that when God saves a person, He also changes their life. This life transformation is not merely an ideal, but a guarantee in the saving plan of God.
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The God Who Justifies
by James R. White (Bethany, 2001)
A right relationship with God is the most important thing anyone can ever
have. This is what makes this volume on justification so valuable.
The first eight chapters explain the significance of justification and the
remaining chapters provide a detailed biblical defense of justification by faith
alone. Not an easy read, but indispensable!
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Darwin on Trial
by Phillip E. Johnson (IVP, 1993)
Johnson utilizes his legal-type reasoning to exquisitely argue against the evolutionary theories of Darwin and his followers. Johnson has taught at the University of California at Berkeley for over twenty years and is a graduate of Harvard and the University of Chicago.
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