One of the things I love to do when I’m at church is check out the tables at our bookstore. The two I’m most interested in are the top sellers and staff picks. I like knowing where the cultural wind is blowing in the Christian community at large – and what in particular my leaders are reading.
The last few weeks I’ve posted about how important it is to know our Bible, understand theology and embrace good doctrine – that it makes a practical difference in how we live our lives.
So how are we currently pursuing that goal? The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) put out the 2016 50 top-selling Christian books. Jamie Dean made an analysis of that list and notes that, with a few exceptions, the list includes light edutainment and even some cases of questionable theology. It’s fine to read for fun and entertainment – but is that our whole diet?
I have to ask, am I challenging my mind? Am I using the Bible as a filter for what I’m reading – or is it the other way around? How is what I’m feeding on influencing what I think?
The article noted above had some good recommendations from Christian leaders (that didn’t make it on the top-seller list). I’d love to know what books have stimulated you. Recently, I read “Les Miserables,” one of my favorite stories of redemption and grace. I’m currently reading about C.S. Lewis and Tolkien. What are you reading?
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
