Summer Reading List
The Summer is a time for everyone to slow down. That shouldn't be a reason for you to slow down in your desire to know and understand God. If you're looking for something to read this summer that will help you grow closer to God look no further. Find a topic you're interested in, and click the link to find the Amazon page for each book.
1. The Bible
This should be pretty obvious. If you only have time to dive in to one book this summer make sure it's the Bible. For help in studying pick up a good study bible like the ESV Study Bible.
Books by Mark Driscoll
1. Doctrine
If you're ever wondered what City of God believes as a church on various issues this book will be incredibly helpful for you. Pastor Mark has been very influential to the leadership at City of God, and this book will help you gain a better understanding of basic Christian beliefs.
In this book Pastor Mark examines the local church in the Bible. What makes up a church? What is the mission of the church? This will help you get a clear idea about the mission and philosophy of COG.
3. Vintage Jesus
In this work Pastor Mark looks at the Biblical portrait of Jesus. Who was Jesus and what did he come to accomplish? If you've ever had questions about Christ this would be a great introduction to the topic.
Books by John Piper (all available for free online at www.desiringgod.org)
1. Desiring God
In this book Piper explains his view that the Christian life is one of Christian "hedonism." We shouldn't live as joyless objective pursuers of God, but as we pursue his glory we find the highest joy imaginable. Touches on key areas of life such as: relationships, money, work, and much more.
2. Future Grace
How does a Christian overcome sin and live for the glory of God in their everyday life? That is the question Piper answers in Future Grace. This is extremely helpful as a follow up to Desiring God.
3. God's Passion for His Glory
Why did God create the world, and what is our purpose in it? By looking at Jonathan Edwards famous work "The End for Which God Created the World," Piper highlights how the glory of God is central to everything in this life.
Books by Various Authors on Different Topics
1. Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem
2. Reading the Bible With Heart and Mind by Tremper Longman
3. Right With God by D.A. Carson
4. The Great Exchange by Jerry Bridges
5. The Cross Centered Life by C.J. Mahaney
6. God, Marriage, and Family by Andreas Koestenberger
7. Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
8. Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God by C.J. Mahaney
9. Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Trip