Solomon was right: of making many books there is no end (Eccl 12:12). We are blessed with many resources to help guide us in expanding our knowledge of Christ and growth in faith. Yet so many options can be overwhelming. The elders recommend the following resources to help guide First Baptist in what they consider to be the best books on the following topics. These are not the only resources we would recommend but they are the most available, reasonably priced, accessible to the average person, and theologically sound. If you are interested in a subject that is not listed here, please contact one of the elders. We would love to point you in the right direction.
The Attributes of God
- Knowing God (J.I. Packer)
- The Holiness of God (R.C. Sproul)
Systematic Theology
- Systematic Theology (Wayne Grudem)
- Institutes of the Christian Religion (John Calvin)
The Gospel
- What is the Gospel (Greg Gilbert)
Reformed Theology
- Mere Calvinism (Jim Scott Orrick)
- Grace Unknown (R.C. Sproul)
- Humble Calvinism (J.A. Medders)
- The Five Points of Calvinism (Steele, Thomas, Quinn)
Christology
- Knowing Christ (Mark Jones)
Spiritual Disciplines
- Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life (Donald Whitney)
- Praying the Bible (Donald Whitney)
The Church (Ecclesiology)
- The Life of the Church: The Table, Pulpit, and Square (Joe Thorn)
- The Church: The Gospel Made Visible (Mark Dever)
- A Display of God’s Glory (Mark Dever)
Marriage
- Sacred Marriage (Gary Thomas)
- Strengthening Your Marriage (Wayne A. Mack)
- Gospel-Shaped Marriage (Van Dixhorn)
Parenting
- Shepherding a Child’s Heart (Tripp)
Homosexuality/Gender Issues
- What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality (Kevin DeYoung)
- Born This Way: Homosexuality, Science, and the Scriptures (J. Alan Branch)
- Transforming Homosexuality: What the Bible Says about Sexual Orientation and Change (Denny Burk and Heath Lambert)
- God and the Transgender Debate (Walker)
Disciple-making
- Discipling: How to Help Others Follow Jesus (Mark Dever)
- Growing Up: How to Be a Disciple Who Makes Disciples (Robby Gallaty)
Evangelism
- Evangelism: How the Whole Church Speaks of Jesus (Mack Stiles)
- Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God (J.I. Packer)