Books
Foundations of Grace
by Steven Lawson
From the lawgiver Moses to the apostle John, and from the early church fathers to modern defenders of the faith, there has marched onto the stage of human history a long line of godly men, a triumphant parade of spiritual stalwarts who have upheld the doctrines of grace. In this book, the first in the five-volume A Long Line of Godly Men series, Dr. Steven J. Lawson takes readers on a heart-stirring survey of the Scriptures to show that the Bible in its entirety teaches the doctrines of grace.
The Sovereignty of God
by Arthur W. Pink
Arthur W. Pink (d. 1953) is noted for his independent thinking. He was so well read, and had such a photographic memory, that he could give you the page and column in a host of reference works and commentaries. This book shocked the Christian world in 1919 when he first published it. He fiercely defends the sovereignty of God, and all the cognate doctrines such as the Doctrines of Grace. It is THE book to give to those just after conversion, and a prime book to give to anyone who defends the free will of man. Pink was a Baptist preacher who held pulpits in England, America, and Australia. His early training was in scientology. His conversion was instant, and complete dedication to the cause of God and truth quickly became evident. This early book by Pink lays Scripture end to end to prove God's control over all persons and events. It is uncompromising, and as such it raises the hackles on the necks of many new students of this doctrine. Persons who knew Pink seldom objected to anything he taught, because he could literally quote hundreds of verses of Scripture verbatim on the subject under discussion. This book may be overwhelming, but it is certain that its many printings have been used of God to convince people of His sovereignty. His doctrinal belief is that that God both elects and reprobates, as Romans 9:21-23 clearly teaches. It is an important stone to guide the steps of those who are not yet convinced of God's absolute sovereignty over all persons and events.
SPIRITUAL lEADERSHIP
BY J. Oswald Sanders
The need for talented, vigorous leaders in the church today cannot be overemphasized. Such times demand the active service of men and women who are guided by God and devoted to Jesus Christ. Spiritual Leadership stands as a proven classic for developing sucher leadership. In this book, J. Oswald Sanders presents the key principles of leadership in both the temporal and spiritual realms, illustrating his points with examples from Scripture and the biographies of eminent men of God (Moses, Nehemiah, Paul, David Livingston, Charles Spurgeon). He writes that even natural leadership qualities are God-given, and their true effectiveness can only be reached when they are used to the glory of God.
Putting Amazing Back into Grace
by Michael Horton
What does it mean to be "saved by grace"? Many believers are confused and intimidated by the doctrine of salvation, and as a result are missing out on the freedom of God's grace. Michael Horton reminds us of the Reformation's radical view of God and his saving grace, the liberating yet humbling truth that we contribute nothing to our salvation. Putting Amazing Back into Grace clearly lays out the Scriptural basis for this important doctrine and the implications of this message for a vibrant evangelical faith. Horton's accessible treatment of who does what in salvation will inspire a fresh amazement at Gods grace.
The Godly Man's Picture
by Thomas Watson
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. Few preachers in the Puritan era (or any other period of church history) match Thomas Watson for his ability to combine rich spirituality, nourishing doctrine and sane wisdom with fascinating illustrations and pleasant style. Watson is remembered chiefly for his posthumously published Body of Practical Divinity (reprinted by the Trust in three volumes). But his extant sermons also include this marvelous series on the character of the Christian. It is, as C.H. Spurgeon said of his other work, "a happy union of sound doctrine, heart-searching experience and practical wisdom."
This work shows how attractive the grace of God is. As his sub-title suggests, Watson works with "a Scripture pencil" in this priceless sketch of the true believer.
Christianity and Liberalsim
by J. Gresham Machen
First published in 1923, Christianity and Liberalism was one of the first -- and, to many, still the best -- critique of liberal Christianity from an orthodox Christian perspective. Written at the height of the battle for control over the Presbyterian Church USA, Christianity and Liberalism brilliantly defines -- and definitively refutes -- the theological liberalism that manifests itself chiefly in the rejection of Scripture as infallibly inspired, the denial of the doctrines of the Fall and of Hell, and the mistaken belief in man's "evolutionary" self-perfection. Machen contrasts these errors with the basic foundational truths of Biblical Christianity on God, man, the Bible, Christ, Salvation, and the Church. As Machen explains, the battle is not merely one between two varieties of the same religion, but between Christianity and an impostor -- one that would exchange God's sovereignty for man's, and God's eternal law for man's evolving, "situation" ethics. For this reason, Machen contends, liberalism and Christianity are permanently at war. Machen also -- prophetically - warns that as the Church departs from its supernatural mission, a spiritual void is created that is filled by the state, leading ultimately to a loss of individual liberty.
The Pursuit of God
by A.W. Tozer / Wingspread Publishers
In the muddle of day-to-day life, have you somehow forgotten that Christianity is a living, vibrant relationship with a personal God? In this classic bestseller and recipient of both the ECPA Gold and Platinum Book Awards, The Pursuit of God reminds and challenges you to renew your relationship with your loving God. In each of the 10 chapters, Tozer explains one aspect of hungering for God and ends with a prayer.
The Glory of Christ
by John Owen
This book was written during the final chapter of John Owen's life and flowed out of his personal meditation and study. Owen's deep love and fervent devotion to Christ is evident on every page. The clarity of Christ's worth and the passion with which Owen communicates is almost overwhelming for the contemporary reader but well worth the battle. Reading and studying this book will teach the reader to see Christ more clearly and to serve him more faithfully.
Worship Matters
by Bob Kauflin / Crossway Books
Nothing is more essential than knowing how to worship the God who created us. This book focuses readers on the essentials of God-honoring worship, combining biblical foundations with practical application in a way that works in the real world. The author, a pastor and noted songwriter, skillfully instructs pastors, musicians, and church leaders so that they can root their congregational worship in unchanging scriptural principles, not divisive cultural trends. Bob Kauflin covers a variety of topics such as the devastating effects of worshiping the wrong things, how to base our worship on God's self-revelation rather than our assumptions, the fuel of worship, the community of worship, and the ways that eternity's worship should affect our earthly worship.
Appropriate for Christians from varied backgrounds and for various denominations, this book will bring a vital perspective to what readers think they understand about praising God.
The Doctrines of Grace
by James Montgomery Boice & Philip Graham Ryken / Crossway Books
There is no question that we live in an age of weak theology and casual Christianity. We have substituted intuition for truth, feeling for belief and immediate gratification for enduring hope. Evangelicalism desperately needs to return to the doctrines that once before reformed the world: radical depravity, unconditional election, particular redemption, efficacious grace and persevering grace. James Boice and Philip Ryken not only provide a compelling exposition on these doctrines of grace, but also look briefly at their historical impact. The authors leave no doubt that the church suffers when these foundational truths are neglected and that she must return to a Christianity that is practically minded, kind hearted, and most importantly, biblically based.
Foundations of the Christian Faith
by James Montgomery Boice / Inter-varsity Press
This excellent version of Foundations of the Christian Faith combines four of Boice's books into one volume. Book one deals with our sovereign God, the knowledge of God, the Word of God, the attributes of God, and God's creation. The second book examines God as redeemer, the fall of the human race, law and grace, the person of Christ, and the work of Christ. Book three is about our relationship or awakening to God, the Spirit of God, how God saves sinners, the life of the Christian, and the work of God. Finally, in book four, Boice looks at God and history, time, history, the church of God, secular and sacred cities, and the end of history.
God is the Gospel: Meditations on God's Love as the Gift of Himself
by John Piper
When you ponder what it means to be loved by God, are your thoughts God-centered or self-centered? Best-selling author and pastor Piper reveals that the most loving thing about God is not his making much of us, but his enabling us to make much of him. Paradigm-challenging reflections on the gospel message! 160 pages, hardcover from Crossway Books.
Holiness
by J.C. Ryle
"For many years practical holiness and entire self-consecration to God have not been sufficiently attended to by modern Christians. Politics, or controversy, or party spirit, or worldliness, have eaten out the heart of lively piety in too many of us. The subject of personal godliness has fallen sadly into the background. The immense importance of 'adorning the doctrine of God our Savior' and making it lovely and beautiful by our daily habits and tempers has been far too much overlooked. Sound doctrine is useless if it is not accompanied by a holy life. It is worse than useless; it does positve harm." This book powerfully addresses these issues. This is a "must read" for every believer. SVC rating - 5 stars!
In the Shadow of the Almighty
by Elizabeth Elliot
A beautifully written awe inspiring and profoundly motivating recounting of the life and times of missionary martyr Jim Elliot. This book will greatly encourage a God centered life perspective and determination to serve Him wholeheartedly. "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
The Gospel According to Jesus
by John MacArthur
John MacArthur tackles the error of easy believism. Is it possible to accept Jesus as Savior while refusing him as Lord? Can someone truly believe without actually repenting? How do obedience, commitment to Christ, and turning from sin fit together with the truth that we are saved by grace through faith alone? In this book MacArthur carefully answers these questions in light of Jesus' own ministry - that a humble spirit of unconditional surrender to Jesus' rightful authority as both Lord and Savior is the very essense of genuine faith.
Communion with God
by John Owen
John Owen believed that communion with God lies at the heart of the Christian life. He never lost the sense of amazement expressed by the Apostle John: "Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ." In this outstanding book he explains the nature of this communion and describes the many privileges it brings.
Explore the Book
by J. Sidlow Baxter
This complete Bible survey course is a rare jewel in Christian literature. No one can finish these series of studies and remain unchanged. The reader will receive lifelong benefit and be enriched by these practical and understandable studies.
Biblical Eldership
by Alexander Strauch
Brothers, We Are NOT Professionals
by John Piper
The Peacemaker
by Ken Sande
When People Are Big and God is Small
by Ed Welch
Worship by the Book
by D.A. Carson
Trusting God
by Jerry Bridges
ELDERS PICKS
Desiring God - by John Piper
The Gospel According to Jesus - by John MacArthur
Spiritual Leadership - by J. Oswald Sanders
The Doctrines of Grace - by James Montgomery Boice
Holiness - by J. C. Ryle
DEVOTIONALS
A Godward Life I and II
By John Piper
Life as a Vapor
By John Piper
For the Love of God I and II
By D.A. Carson
My Utmost for His Highest
By J. Oswald Chambers
The Valley of Vision
A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions
By Arthur Bennett
The strength of Puritan character and life lay in prayer and meditation. In this practice the spirit of prayer was regarded as of first importance and the best form of prayer, for living prayer is the characteristic of genuine spirituality. This book was written not to 'supply' prayers but to prompt and encourage the Christian as he treads the path on which others have gone before. Beautifully written and deeply meaningful.
BOOKS FOR THE FAMILY
The Jesus Storybook
by Sally Lloyd-Jones
Shepherding a Child's Heart
By Tedd Tripp
This book is about how to speak to the heart of your child. The things your child does ans says flows from the heart. Written for parents with children of any age, this insightufl book provides perspectives and procedures for shepherding your child's heart into the paths of life.
Successful Christian Parenting
By John MacArthur
This book is unlike the pragmatic or formulaic approaches to parenting and family life. It's not a new "method" of parenting. Neither is this a book on child psychology. Rather, it presents the time-proven principles of biblical parenting clearly and carefully to help parents make sense of their duties before God and to bring up their children in the ways of the Lord.
The leadership of Sun Valley Church reccomends the following books:
Foundations of Grace
by Steven Lawson
From the lawgiver Moses to the apostle John, and from the early church fathers to moderndefenders of the faith, there has marched onto the stage of human history a long line of godly men, a triumphant parade of spiritual stalwarts who have upheld the doctrines of grace. In this book, the first in the five-volume A Long Line of Godly Men series, Dr. Steven J. Lawson takes readers on a heart-stirring survey of the Scriptures to show that the Bible in its entirety teaches the doctrines of grace.
The Sovereignty of God
by Arthur W. Pink
Arthur W. Pink (d. 1953) is noted for his independent thinking. He was so well read, and had such a photographic memory, that he could give you the page and column in a host of reference works and commentaries. This book shocked the Christian world in 1919 when he first published it. He fiercely defends the sovereignty of God, and all the cognate doctrines such as the Doctrines of Grace. It is THE book to give to those just after conversion, and a prime book to give to anyone who defends the free will of man. Pink was a Baptist preacher who held pulpits in England, America, and Australia. His early training was in scientology. His conversion was instant, and complete dedication to the cause of God and truth quickly became evident. This early book by Pink lays Scripture end to end to prove God's control over all persons and events. It is uncompromising, and as such it raises the hackles on the necks of many new students of this doctrine. Persons who knew Pink seldom objected to anything he taught, because he could literally quote hundreds of verses of Scripture verbatim on the subject under discussion. This book may be overwhelming, but it is certain that its many printings have been used of God to convince people of His sovereignty. His doctrinal belief is that that God both elects and reprobates, as Romans 9:21-23 clearly teaches. It is an important stone to guide the steps of those who are not yet convinced of God's absolute sovereignty over all persons and events.
Spiritual Leadership
by J. Oswald Sanders
The need for talented, vigorous leaders in the church today cannot be overemphasized. Such times demand the active service of men and women who are guided by God and devoted to Jesus Christ. Spiritual Leadership stands as a proven classic for developing sucher leadership. In this book, J. Oswald Sanders presents the key principles of leadership in both the temporal and spiritual realms, illustrating his points with examples from Scripture and the biographies of eminent men of God (Moses, Nehemiah, Paul, David Livingston, Charles Spurgeon). He writes that even natural leadership qualities are God-given, and their true effectiveness can only be reached when they are used to the glory of God.
Putting Amazing Back into Graceby Michael HortonWhat does it mean to be "saved by grace"? Many believers are confused and intimidated by the doctrine of salvation, and as a result are missing out on the freedom of God's grace. Michael Horton reminds us of the Reformation's radical view of God and his saving grace, the liberating yet humbling truth that we contribute nothing to our salvation. Putting Amazing Back into Grace clearly lays out the Scriptural basis for this important doctrine and the implications of this message for a vibrant evangelical faith. Horton's accessible treatment of who does what in salvation will inspire a fresh amazement at Gods grace.
The Godly Man's Picture
by Thomas Watson
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. Few preachers in the Puritan era (or any other period of church history) match Thomas Watson for his ability to combine rich spirituality, nourishing doctrine and sane wisdom with fascinating illustrations and pleasant style. Watson is remembered chiefly for his posthumously published Body of Practical Divinity (reprinted by the Trust in three volumes). But his extant sermons also include this marvelous series on the character of the Christian. It is, as C.H. Spurgeon said of his other work, "a happy union of sound doctrine, heart-searching experience and practical wisdom."This work shows how attractive the grace of God is. As his sub-title suggests, Watson works with "a Scripture pencil" in this priceless sketch of the true believer.
Christianity and Liberalsim
by J. Gresham Machen
First published in 1923, Christianity and Liberalism was one of the first -- and, to many, still the best -- critique of liberal Christianity from an orthodox Christian perspective. Written at the height of the battle for control over the Presbyterian Church USA, Christianity and Liberalism brilliantly defines -- and definitively refutes -- the theological liberalism that manifests itself chiefly in the rejection of Scripture as infallibly inspired, the denial of the doctrines of the Fall and of Hell, and the mistaken belief in man's "evolutionary" self-perfection. Machen contrasts these errors with the basic foundational truths of Biblical Christianity on God, man, the Bible, Christ, Salvation, and the Church. As Machen explains, the battle is not merely one between two varieties of the same religion, but between Christianity and an impostor -- one that would exchange God's sovereignty for man's, and God's eternal law for man's evolving, "situation" ethics. For this reason, Machen contends, liberalism and Christianity are permanently at war. Machen also -- prophetically - warns that as the Church departs from its supernatural mission, a spiritual void is created that is filled by the state, leading ultimately to a loss of individual liberty.
The Pursuit of God
by A.W. Tozer / Wingspread Publishers
In the muddle of day-to-day life, have you somehow forgotten that Christianity is a living, vibrant relationship with a personal God? In this classic bestseller and recipient of both the ECPA Gold and Platinum Book Awards, The Pursuit of God reminds and challenges you to renew your relationship with your loving God. In each of the 10 chapters, Tozer explains one aspect of hungering for God and ends with a prayer.
The Glory of Christby John OwenThis book was written during the final chapter of John Owen's life and flowed out of his personal meditation and study. Owen's deep love and fervent devotion to Christ is evident on every page. The clarity of Christ's worth and the passion with which Owen communicates is almost overwhelming for the contemporary reader but well worth the battle. Reading and studying this book will teach the reader to see Christ more clearly and to serve him more faithfully.
Worship Matters
by Bob Kauflin / Crossway Books
Nothing is more essential than knowing how to worship the God who created us. This book focuses readers on the essentials of God-honoring worship, combining biblical foundations with practical application in a way that works in the real world. The author, a pastor and noted songwriter, skillfully instructs pastors, musicians, and church leaders so that they can root their congregational worship in unchanging scriptural principles, not divisive cultural trends. Bob Kauflin covers a variety of topics such as the devastating effects of worshiping the wrong things, how to base our worship on God's self-revelation rather than our assumptions, the fuel of worship, the community of worship, and the ways that eternity's worship should affect our earthly worship.Appropriate for Christians from varied backgrounds and for various denominations, this book will bring a vital perspective to what readers think they understand about praising God.
The Doctrines of Grace
by James Montgomery Boice & Philip Graham Ryken / Crossway Books
There is no question that we live in an age of weak theology and casual Christianity. We have substituted intuition for truth, feeling for belief and immediate gratification for enduring hope. Evangelicalism desperately needs to return to the doctrines that once before reformed the world: radical depravity, unconditional election, particular redemption, efficacious grace and persevering grace. James Boice and Philip Ryken not only provide a compelling exposition on these doctrines of grace, but also look briefly at their historical impact. The authors leave no doubt that the church suffers when these foundational truths are neglected and that she must return to a Christianity that is practically minded, kind hearted, and most importantly, biblically based.
Foundations of the Christian Faith
by James Montgomery Boice / Inter-varsity Press
This excellent version of Foundations of the Christian Faith combines four of Boice's books into one volume. Book one deals with our sovereign God, the knowledge of God, the Word of God, the attributes of God, and God's creation. The second book examines God as redeemer, the fall of the human race, law and grace, the person of Christ, and the work of Christ. Book three is about our relationship or awakening to God, the Spirit of God, how God saves sinners, the life of the Christian, and the work of God. Finally, in book four, Boice looks at God and history, time, history, the church of God, secular and sacred cities, and the end of history.
God is the Gospel: Meditations on God's Love as the Gift of Himself
by John Piper
When you ponder what it means to be loved by God, are your thoughts God-centered or self-centered? Best-selling author and pastor Piper reveals that the most loving thing about God is not his making much of us, but his enabling us to make much of him. Paradigm-challenging reflections on the gospel message! 160 pages, hardcover from Crossway Books. Holinessby J.C. Ryle"For many years practical holiness and entire self-consecration to God have not been sufficiently attended to by modern Christians. Politics, or controversy, or party spirit, or worldliness, have eaten out the heart of lively piety in too many of us. The subject of personal godliness has fallen sadly into the background. The immense importance of 'adorning the doctrine of God our Savior' and making it lovely and beautiful by our daily habits and tempers has been far too much overlooked. Sound doctrine is useless if it is not accompanied by a holy life. It is worse than useless; it does positve harm." This book powerfully addresses these issues. This is a "must read" for every believer. SVC rating - 5 stars!
In the Shadow of the Almighty
by Elizabeth Elliot
A beautifully written awe inspiring and profoundly motivating recounting of the life and times of missionary martyr Jim Elliot. This book will greatly encourage a God centered life perspective and determination to serve Him wholeheartedly. "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
The Gospel According to Jesus
by John MacArthur
John MacArthur tackles the error of easy believism. Is it possible to accept Jesus as Savior while refusing him as Lord? Can someone truly believe without actually repenting? How do obedience, commitment to Christ, and turning from sin fit together with the truth that we are saved by grace through faith alone? In this book MacArthur carefully answers these questions in light of Jesus' own ministry - that a humble spirit of unconditional surrender to Jesus' rightful authority as both Lord and Savior is the very essense of genuine faith.
Communion with God
by John Owen
John Owen believed that communion with God lies at the heart of the Christian life. He never lost the sense of amazement expressed by the Apostle John: "Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ." In this outstanding book he explains the nature of this communion and describes the many privileges it brings.
Explore the Book
by J. Sidlow Baxter
This complete Bible survey course is a rare jewel in Christian literature. No one can finish these series of studies and remain unchanged. The reader will receive lifelong benefit and be enriched by these practical and understandable studies.
Biblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch
Brothers, We Are NOT Professionals by John Piper
The Peacemaker by Ken Sande
When People Are Big and God is Small by Ed Welch
Worship by D.A. Carson
Trusting God by Jerry Bridges
Desiring God - by John Piper
Holiness - by J. C. Ryle
A Godward Life I and II by John Piper
Life as a Vapor by John Piper
For the Love of God I and II by D.A. Carson
My Utmost for His Highest by J. Oswald Chambers
The Valley of Vision A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions
by Arthur Bennett
The strength of Puritan character and life lay in prayer and meditation. In this practice the spirit of prayer was regarded as of first importance and the best form of prayer, for living prayer is the characteristic of genuine spirituality. This book was written not to 'supply' prayers but to prompt and encourage the Christian as he treads the path on which others have gone before. Beautifully written and deeply meaningful.
The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones
Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp
This book is about how to speak to the heart of your child. The things your child does ans says flows from the heart. Written for parents with children of any age, this insightufl book provides perspectives and procedures for shepherding your child's heart into the paths of life.
Successful Christian Parenting
by John MacArthur
This book is unlike the pragmatic or formulaic approaches to parenting and family life. It's not a new "method" of parenting. Neither is this a book on child psychology. Rather, it presents the time-proven principles of biblical parenting clearly and carefully to help parents make sense of their duties before God and to bring up their children in the ways of the Lord.
