Skip to Main Content

Faculty Favorites: Every Christian Ought to Read

The books which are highly recommended for reading as well as those written by the TMU Faculty including their respective theses and dissertations.

The TMU Faculty Recommends Every Christian Ought to Read these Books

A. W. Tozer, “Knowledge of the Holy” 231.4 T669k

A.W. Tozer, “Pursuit of God” 248.4 T669

Abraham Kuyper, “Lectures on Calvinism” 230.42 K969L

C. S. Lewis, “Mere Christianity” 230.342 L585m Also, EBSCO eAudiobook

C. S. Lewis, “The Screwtape Letters” 248.4 L585s

Collected Poems of Robert Frost  ON ORDER

Cornelius Van Til, “Why I Believe in God” ON ORDER

Corrie Ten Boom, “The Hiding Place” 940.5472 T25h

D. A. Carson, “Love in Hard Places” 241.4 C239L

David N. Steele, Curtis C. Thomas, S. Lance Quinn, “The Five Points of Calvinism” 230.42 St32f

Dick Eastman, “The Hour That Changes the World: A Practical Plan for Personal Prayer” 248.32 Ea78h

“The Didache” 270.1 V431w (The Way of the Didache: The First Christian Handbook); Also, Various translations on the Internet.

Francis A. Schaeffer, “The Francis A. Schaeffer Trilogy: The Three Essential Books in One Volume (The God who is there -- Escape from reason -- He is there and He is not silent” 239 Sch13f

Fyodor Dostoyevsky, “The Brothers Karamazov” 891.73 D742bAlso, EBSCO eBook

G. K. Chesterton, “Orthodoxy” EBSCO eBook

Gordon R. Lewis and Bruce A. Demarest, “Integrative Theology” 230.044 L585i

Gregg Frazer, “The Religious Beliefs of America’s Founders” 200.92 F869r

Henry M. Morris, “The Genesis Record” 222.11 M832g

Herbert Lockyer, “All the Promises of the Bible” 220.04 L815a

Hillenbrand, “Unbroken” 940.5472 Z14u

Howard G. Hendricks, “Living by the Book” 220.97 H384L

J. A. Wylie, “The History of Protestantism” 284.09 W977h; Also, <http://doctrine.org/the-history-of-protestantism/>

J. I. Packer, “Knowing God” 231.042 P127k; Also, 231.042 P127k CD (audiobook); Also, EBSCO ebook

Jason Mandryk, “Operation World” 266 M312o, 2010

Jean Calvin, “The Beatitudes” ON ORDER

Jen Wilkin, “None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different from Us (and Why That’s a Good Thing)” 231.4 W653n

Jerry Bridges, “Trusting God Even When Life Hurts” 231.7 B764t; Also, EBSCO eAudiobook

John Bunyan, “The Pilgrim’s Progress” 823.4 B886p; Also, EBSCO eBook

John Calvin, “Institutes of the Christian Religion” 284.2 C139im

John F. Walvoord, Roy B. Zuck and Dallas Theological Seminary, “The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures”” 221.7 B471w

John MacArthur, “Called to Lead” 253 M118c

John MacArthur, “The Gospel According to Jesus” 234.6 M118g

John MacArthur, “Worship:  the Ultimate Priority”248.3 M118u; Also, EBSCO eAudiobook

John Piper, “Don’t Waste Your Life” 248.4 P661d; Also, EBSCO eBook; Also, EBSCO Audiobook

John Piper, “Future Grace: The Purifying Power of the Promises of God” 234.2 P661p

Joseph Conrad, “Heart of Darkness” EBSCO eBook

Karol Józef Wojtyla, “Love and Responsibility” ON ORDER

Matt Chandler, “Explicit Gospel” 234 C361e; Also, EBSCO eBook

Millard Erickson, “Christian Theology” 230.044 Er44c; Also, EBSCO eBook

Paul David Tripp, “Dangerous Calling” 253 T737d; Also, EBSCO eBook

Thomas Watson, “A Body of Divinity” 230.59 W338b

Thomas Watson, “The Godly Man’s Picture, Drawn with a Scripture Pencil, or, Some Characteristic Marks of a Man Who is Going to Heaven” Legacy Room 248.842 W338g

Todd Charles Wood & Megan J. Murray, “Understanding the Pattern of Life” 231.7652 W85u

Wayne Grudem, “Systematic Theology” 230 G921s

Every Christian Ought to Read ...

Calvin Institutes of the Christian Religion

English translation of the monumental statement of reformation faith. by Jean (John) Calvin.

The Bible Knowledge Commentary

HELP FROM EXPERT SCHOLARS IN UNDERSTANDING THE SCRIPTURES * What does That verse mean? * How should I interpret this passage? * What is the significance of this word or phrase in Hebrew or Aramaic? * How do Bible-time customs help me understand the meaning of this passage? * How does the information on the author, historical background, and features of a Bible book help interpret that book? The Bible Knowledge Commentary answers these and other questions about the Scriptures, discussing all the Bible verse by verse and often phrase by phrase. In addition, maps, charts, and diagrams help you grasp the meanings of the biblical text. Unlike most others this commentary is by authors from one school - Dallas Theological Seminary. The Bible Knowledge Commentary - popular in style and scholarly in content - will deepen your understanding of God's written Word

Dangerous Calling

Recognizing the widespread struggles facing pastors today, Tripp exposes and exhorts the cultures that train and support our church leaders so that they can lead well and our churches can be healthy.

Living by the Book

Principles and procedures that will make your personal Bible study more fruitful and productive. You'll be challenged to read more closely and probe more deeply, and you'll learn how to make key observations that will bring fresh application to your life.

Trusting God

Why is it easier to obey God than to trust him? In an effort to strengthen his own trust in God during a time of adversity, Bridges began a lengthy Bible study on the topic of God's sovereignty.

Don't Waste Your Life

A passionate call for this generation to make their lives count for eternity. Piper discusses the risks for those who seek to accomplish something in life for the sake of Christ.

Love in Hard Places

A readable guide for helping Christians understand what biblical forgiveness and biblical love really look like in the painful situations in life.

Gospel According to Jesus

In The Gospel According to Jesus, MacArthur tackles the idea of "easy believism," challenging Christians to re-evaluate their commitment to Christ by examining their fruits. MacArthur asks, "What does it really mean to be saved?" He urges readers to understand that their conversion was more than a mere point in time, that, by definition, it includes a lifetime of obediently walking with Jesus as Lord. This 20th anniversary edition of MacArthur's provocative, Scripture-based book contains one new chapter and is further revised to provide Christians in the 21st century a fresh perspective on the intrinsic relationship between faith and works, clearly revealing Why Jesus is both Savior and Lord to all who believe.

The Genesis Record

Massive and scholarly, but written for scientific and theological lay persons, this book combines the findings of many disciplines.

Knowing God

J. I. Packer's classic has been an important tool to help Christians around the world discover the wonder, the glory and the joy of knowing God. Knowing God brings together two important facets of the Christian faith-- knowing about God and also knowing God through the context of a close relationship with the person of Jesus Christ. 

The Religious Beliefs of America's Founders

Were America's Founders Christians or deists? Conservatives and secularists have taken each position respectively, mustering evidence to insist just how tall the wall separating church and state should be. Now Gregg Frazer puts their arguments to rest in the first comprehensive analysis of the Founders' beliefs as they themselves expressed them--showing that today's political right and left are both wrong. Going beyond church attendance or public pronouncements made for political ends, Frazer scrutinizes the Founders' candid declarations regarding religion found in their private writings. Distilling decades of research, he contends that these men were neither Christian nor deist but rather adherents of a system he labels "theistic rationalism," a hybrid belief system that combined elements of natural religion, Protestantism, and reason--with reason the decisive element. Frazer explains how this theological middle ground developed, what its core beliefs were, and how they were reflected in the thought of eight Founders: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, James Wilson, Gouverneur Morris, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and George Washington. Frazer's careful explication helps readers better understand the case for revolutionary recruitment, the religious references in the Declaration of Independence, and the religious elements-and lack thereof-in the Constitution. Deftly blending history, religion, and political thought, Frazer succeeds in showing that the American experiment was neither a wholly secular venture nor an attempt to create a Christian nation founded on biblical principles. By showcasing the actual approach taken by these key Founders, he suggests a viable solution to the twenty-first-century standoff over the relationship between church and state--and challenges partisans on both sides to articulate their visions for America on their own merits without holding the Founders hostage to positions they never held.

The Pilgrim's Progress

In current English, this translation faithfully presents the complete text of John Bunyan's original. More than 150 one-color calligraphy pieces by Tim Butts enhance this beloved story.

The Knowledge of the Holy

This timeless gift breathes a spirit of devotion for all Christians, from those who are newly arrived to those who are committing themselves anew to Jesus Christ.   The Knowledge of the Holy by beloved evangelical author and Christian mystic A.W. Tozer illuminates God's attributes--from wisdom, to grace, to mercy--and in doing so, attempts to restore the majesty and wonder of God in the hearts and minds of all Christians. Informative as well as inspirational, The Knowledge of the Holy returns the towering Christian concept of God to the center of the religious mind, fostering a renewed appreciation of the magnitude of God's glory.     A modern classic of Christian testimony and devotion, The Knowledge of the Holy shows us how we can rejuvenate our prayer life, meditate more reverently, understand God more deeply, and experience God's presence in our daily lives. 

Unbroken

In boyhood, Louis Zamperini was an incorrigible delinquent. As a teenager, he channeled his defiance into running, discovering a prodigious talent that had carried him to the Berlin Olympics. But when World War II began, the athlete became an airman, embarking on a journey that led to a doomed flight on a May afternoon in 1943. When his Army Air Forces bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean, against all odds, Zamperini survived, adrift on a foundering life raft. Ahead of Zamperini lay thousands of miles of open ocean, leaping sharks, thirst and starvation, enemy aircraft, and, beyond, a trial even greater. Driven to the limits of endurance, Zamperini would answer desperation with ingenuity; suffering with hope, resolve, and hum∨ brutality with rebellion. His fate, whether triumph or tragedy, would be suspended on the fraying wire of his will.   Unbroken is an unforgettable testament to the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit, brought vividly to life by Seabiscuit author Laura Hillenbrand.

Heart of Darkness

Heart of Darkness is Joseph Conrad's disturbing novella recounted by the itinerant captain Marlow sent to find and bring home the shadowy and inscrutable Captain Kurtz. Marlow and his men follow a river deep into a jungle, the Heart of Darkness of Africa looking for Kurtz, an unhinged leader of an isolated trading station. This highly symbolic psychological drama was the founding myth for Francis Ford Coppola's 1979 movie Apocalypse Now .

The Explicit Gospel

Popular pastor and worldwide speaker Matt Chandler writes his first book to remind the church of what is of first and utmost importance--the gospel.

The Five Points of Calvinism

This fortieth-anniversary edition of The Five Points of Calvinism, now with Scripture quotations from the English Standard Version, contains updated source information and new appendices on such themes as "A Kinder, Gentler Calvinism," "Perseverance and Preservation," and "The Practical Applications of Calvinism." Book jacket.

Future Grace

In Future Grace, author John Piper helps readers discover the key to overcoming sin and living a life that honors God. Many men and women attempt to walk upright out of gratitude for what Christ did in the past, but Piper encourages believers to look ahead to the grace God provides for us on a day-by-day, moment-by-moment basis--putting faith into action by laying hold of God's promises for the challenges we face. Sever the Root of Sin No one sins out of duty. We sin because we want to. Sin promises happiness, and we buy the lie. So how can the root of sin be severed in our lives? The penalty of sin must be paid by the righteous blood of Christ. And the power of sin must be broken by banking on the promises of Christ. John Piper's meditations are rooted in rock-solid biblical reflection. Chapter by chapter--one for each day of the month--he reveals how, by cherishing the promises of God, you can break the power of anxiety, despondency, covetousness, lust, bitterness, impatience, pride, misplaced shame, and more.

Operation World

Operation World, the definitive global prayer handbook, has been used by more than a million Christians to pray for the nations. Now in its 7th edition, it has been completely updated and revised by Jason Mandryk with a team of missionaries and researchers, and it covers the entire populated world.Included in this updated and revised 7th edition:All the countries of the world featured Maps of each country Geographic information People groups within each countryEconomic informationPolitical informationReligious make-up of each countryDaily Prayer CalendarAnswers to prayerChallenges for prayerWhether you are an intercessor praying behind the scenes for world change, a missionary abroad or simply curious about the world, Operation World will give you the information necessary to play a vital role in fulfilling the Great Commission.

All the Promises of the Bible

Promises You Can Stand On Through Thick and ThinThe Bible is filled with hundreds of what the apostle Peter called "exceeding great and precious promises": definite, explicit declarations God has made that you can count on. In All the Promises of the Bible, Dr. Herbert Lockyer discusses the nature of God's promises--their substance #65533; simplicity #65533; surety #65533; source #65533; security #65533; scope.Lockyer's in-depth look at the scope of God's promises arranges them in categories that cover the full array of human concerns, from the spiritual to the material and the corporate to the personal. As you come to understand God's promises and how they apply to every aspect of your life, you'll gain a trust in God that will sustain you through the worst of times and be your source of rejoicing in the best.

Called to Lead

In Called to Lead, best-selling author, pastor, and teacher John MacArthur explains the characteristics of a leader drawn from Paul's letters to the church showing the twenty-six key qualities of a leader without forfeiting faith and obedience.

Understanding the Pattern of Life

Darwinian evolutionary theory has been largely recognized over the last century to be the most pervasive and damaging influence on modern society. As a frontal assault on the Kingdom, evolution has been Christianity's most notorious detractor and its greatest foe. "Understanding the Pattern of Life makes a stand on the Bible's account of the origin of the species. This book will prove from solid scientific evidence that God created all life from nothing. "Understanding the Pattern of Life will show how the species should be classed and ordered to reflect the biblical model.

Systematic Theology

The Christian church has a long tradition of systematic theology, that is, studying theology and doctrine organized around fairly standard categories such as the Word of God, redemption, and Jesus Christ. This introduction to systematic theology has several distinctive features: - A strong emphasis on the scriptural basis for each doctrine and teaching - Clear writing, with technical terms kept to a minimum - A contemporary approach, treating subjects of special interest to the church today - A friendly tone, appealing to the emotions and the spirit as well as the intellect - Frequent application to life - Resources for worship with each chapter - Bibliographies with each chapter that cross-reference subjects to a wide range of other systematic theologies.

Christian Theology

A new edition of leading theologian Millard Erickson's classic text.

Integrative Theology

Integrative Theology is designed to help graduate students in a pluralistic world utilize a standard method of fruitful research. Each chapter on a major doctrine: (1) states a classic issue of ultimate concern, (2) surveys alternative past and present answers and (3) tests those proposals by their congruence with information on the subject progressively revealed from Genesis to Revelation. Then the chapter (4) formulates a doctrinal conclusion that consistently fits the many lines of biblical data, (5) defends that conviction respectfully, and finally (6) explores the conclusion s relevance to a person s spiritual birth, growth and service to others, all for the glory of God. Why the title Integrative Theology? In each chapter, steps 2-6 integrate the disciplines of historical, biblical, systematic, apologetic and practical theology."

The Hiding Place

This is the true story of how Corrie ten Boom and her family became leaders in the Dutch underground when the Nazis invaded Holland, hiding Jewish people in their home in a specially built room.

The Screwtape Letters

A masterpiece of satire, this classic has entertained and enlightened readers the world over with its sly and ironic portrayal of human life from the vantage point of Screwtape, a highly placed assistant to "Our Father Below." At once wildly comic, deadly serious, and strikingly original, C. S. Lewis gives us the correspondence of the -worldly-wise old devil to his nephew Wormwood, a novice demon in charge of securing the damnation of an ordinary young man. The Screwtape Letters is the most engaging and humorous account of temptation--and triumph over it--ever written.

The Collected Poems of Robert Frost

The Collected Poems of Robert Frost, includes the inspiring poetry of Frost's first three collections, including his earliest major poems "The Road Not Taken" and "Mending Wall" making this edition one you shouldn't miss!

The Ultimate Priority

Worship is so much more than what is sung or played in church on Sunday morning. John MacArthur takes you step by step in a discovery of who and how to worship. From the existence of God and His attributes, to instruction on the right and wrong ways to worship God, MacArthur never strays from teaching and explaining what the Bible says. This book makes it Biblically clear that worship is all about how we prioritize and live our daily lives to honor and glorify God. Make worship your ultimate priority!

None Like Him

This exploration of ten attributes that belong to God alone reminds us of why our limits are a good thing in light of God's limitlessness--celebrating the freedom that comes from letting God be God.

Francis A. Schaeffer Trilogy

Considered foundational to his entire life's work, this text was revised shortly before the renowned theologian's death.

The Pursuit of God

During a train trip from Chicago in the late 1940s, A.W. Tozer began to work on The Pursuit of God. He wrote all night long, the words coming to him as fast as he could put them down. By the next morning, when the train pulled into McAllen, Texas, the rough draft was done. Although written in such a remarkably short period of time, the depth, clarity and completeness of Tozer's message has made The Pursuit of God an enduring favorite -- about 1.7 million copies in print in 15 languages. Prepare yourself for a deeply meaningful and enjoyable experience.

Sermons on the Beatitudes

This short series on the Beatitudes, translated for the first time into English, comprise Calvin's exposition of Matthew 5:1-12, Mark 3:13-19 and Luke 6:12-26. Begun in 1559, the series was still not completed by 1564, when ill health forced his retirement from the pulpit. He died three months later making these sermons his very last effort to elucidate a New Testament text in the context of regular public worship. 

The Hour That Changes the World

Filled with practical suggestions for revitalized prayer, this unique book offers a plan that will aid any sincere Christian in the development of a consistent daily devotional habit.

The Way of the Didache

The Way of the Didache: The First Christian Handbook, Dr. William Varner's new book, is an exciting and engaging look at one of the oldest non-canonical writings. Dr. Varner, professor of Bible and Greek at the Master's College, has spent the a number of years working through the Greek text of the Didache, both on his own and also with his intermediate Greek students at the Master's College. From the beginning of chapter one all the way until the end, the reader is brought along with Dr. Varner as he enthusiastically discusses the importance and relevance of the Didache for present day Christian studies.

Mere Christianity

Mere Christianity brings together what Lewis sees as the fundamental truths of the religion. Rejecting the boundaries that divide Christianity s many denomin-ations, Lewis finds a common ground on which all those who have Christian faith can stand together.

Orthodoxy

In Orthodoxy, a classic work of Christian apologetics, G. K. Chesterton writes with the purpose of attempting "an explanation, not of whether the Christian Faith can be believed, but of how he personally has come to believe it." Christianity, in Chesterton's original view, is the "answer to a riddle" and the natural solution to our needs, and in this way it is deeply personal rather than an arbitrary truth from outside one's experience. Orthodoxy is the culmination of Chesterton's free-thinking and well-reasoned inquiry as he seeks an explanation to the mystery of being human.

The Brothers Karamazov

What is free will? Is redemption possible? Can logic help us answer moral questions? Renowned Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoyevsky tackles all of these topics and many more in this remarkable novel, widely regarded as one of the classic masterpieces of literature. Follow the Karamazov family through the travails that transpire after the murder of their father, and expand your intellectual horizons with a work that celebrated thinkers such as Einstein, Freud...

A Body of Divinity

Watson's Body of Practical Divinity.contained in sermons on the Westminster Assembly Catechism.

The Godly Man's Picture

Watson is always the essence of sanity and reliability. Christians of all stages will feel as if they have entered the gallery of a great portrait painter.