10 Classics that Every Christian Should Read

 In today’s busy world, I know it can be hard to find time to read, but over the centuries God has gifted faithful Christian men and women with incredible insight and wisdom. This knowledge helps us to grow and mature in our faith as we are encouraged, strengthened and discipled by these warriors of faith. It is often said that we stand on the shoulders of the giants who have gone before us. So, I have compiled a list of 10 Chrisitan classics that have stood the test of time. These are books of substance, which means you may only read a chapter and then have to reflect and ponder on what you have read. Not all books are created equal and we have limited time, so we want to read books that help us grow in our relationship with God and nourish our souls. Most of these books can also be found on Audible if that is better for your schedule. Enjoy and drop us a line on your favorite!!

• Knowing God by J. I. Packer: Packer introduces who God is, His attributes, and how to better know Him. Many of us have grown up with wrong views of God and this impacts our understanding of Him and our walk with Him. If you have already read Knowing God, I suggest The Attributes of God by A.W. Tozer (one of my personal favorites). It can be a challenging read, but it is worth it. Tozer helps you glimpse the majesty and greatness of God, and you will never be the same.

• Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis: This modern-day apologetics book covers the fundamentals of the Christian faith, while also including apologetic arguments. Many people reference Lewis’ work when defending and evangelizing (i.e., his Liar, Lunatic or Lord argument). This is also a great resource to give a nonbeliever to help them understand the rational logic of Christianity. The first few chapters may be challenging, but push through it, it is worth the time and effort.

• Desiring God by John Piper: Loving God is a delight not a duty. This book will transform your view of God and help you to love Him more passionately. Piper’s shattering truth will long stay with you: God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. Piper beckons us to become hedonists for God.

• The Pursuit of God by A. W. Tozer: This was one of the first Christian books I read, so I have to confess that I am biased and consider this a foundational book of the Christian faith. Tozer helps believers go deeper in their relationship with God, to truly hunger and thirst for Him. He pleas for believers to move beyond “comfortable Christianity” in order to live a life of full faith and a full experience of God.

• The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence: Brother Lawrence helps Christians experience God in everyday moments, like washing dishes and peeling potatoes. Most of us have lots of everyday moments and very few “high” moments, so this book teaches us how to find satisfaction and joy with God in everyday life. If you have already read Brother Lawrence, I suggest Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala. Cymbala, pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle, shares his story of how God brought revival to the people in his area through prayer and obedience. A great encouragement to pray and live by the Holy Spirit. If you prefer a more theological read, then The Collection of E. M. Bounds on Prayer is terrific. Bounds has deep thoughts on prayer and your prayer life will increase significantly.

• The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan: This book is the second most read book by Christians, with the first being the Bible. It is an allegorical tale of a pilgrim’s journey in Christianity, which represents our journey. It is filled with adventure, peril, loss and victory that reads like a novel but with deep spiritual truths imbedded within its imagery. It is encouraging to know that we are not alone in our struggles and temptations and that all Christians face them. Great to read to your children as well.

• The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis: This fictional work provides a glimpse into spiritual warfare and human nature. It is written from the perspective of an experienced demon who gives a younger demon suggestions on how to wreak havoc in Christians’ lives. You will be surprised at how much insight you receive about spiritual warfare, the nature of sin, and how the enemy is constantly plotting against us and seeking our ruin.

• Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster: This list would not be complete without a disciplines book and there are several great ones out there. Celebration of Discipline discusses the core spiritual disciplines of the Christian life. Foster does a good job of providing both the theology behind the practices and practical examples for everyday living. Through these disciplines, the Christian encounters God. 

• Confessions by Augustine: This classic Christian autobiography shares about Augustine’s journey of faith from his sinful youth to his conversion to Christianity. But it is so much more than just an autobiography because Augustine shares many of the things he has learned and how he has found the eternally satisfying love of God. Encounter God in a fresh way as you read Confessions. 

• The Holiness of God by R. C. Sproul: Today’s society is losing its understanding of God’s holiness and yet, God’s holiness is the only attribute of His that Scripture repeats three times (God is not merely holy, but “holy, holy, holy”). We will struggle tremendously in our Christian walk if we do not understand God’s holiness and its impact in our lives.

Just a quick reminder that these books are great supplements to our reading of Scripture. No book should replace our regularly reading the Word. Also, I may not endorse every single word within each book, but rather the concepts they provide. Be discerning as you read and allow the Holy Spirit to be your guide.