Top 25 Books Of 2011

I read a lot, at least a book or two a week; so I decided to do a top 25 books of 2011 post.  I hope you enjoy.

25.  Love Wins – Rob Bell^*

^*Special Note:  I in no way endorse this book.  I decided to include this in the list of top books based on how much it was talked/blogged about and how controversial it was.  It was so controversial and anticipated that the publishers released it early.

24.  Rediscovering The Church Fathers – Michael G. Haykin

23.  Welcome To The Story – Stephen J. Nichols

22.  The Legacy Of The King James Bible – Leland Ryken

21.  Gospel – J.D. Greear

20.  Tempted & Tried – Russell D. Moore

19.  Disciple – Bill Clem

18.  The Pastor As Scholar & The Scholar As Pastor – John Piper & D.A. Carson

17.  Rid of My DisGrace – Justin S. & Lindsey A. Holcomb

16.  Gospel-Centered Marriage – Tim Chester

15.  Give Them Grace – Elyse Fitzpatrick

14.  Redemption – Mike Wilkerson

13.  The Meaning Of Marriage – Tim & Kathy Keller

12.  A Meal With Jesus – Tim Chester

11.  Practicing Affirmation – Sam Crabtree

And now the top 10.

10.  Historical Theology – Greg Allison

This volume corresponds with Gruden’s Systematic Theology and allows the reader to understand the development of the various theological ideas.

9.  Awaiting A Savior – Aaron Armstrong

To see my full review go here.  This a great book about poverty and the Gospel.  Read it, it will make you think and challenge you deeply.

8.  ESV Student Study Bible – Crossway

An excellent and must have resource for any teenager or college student.  If you are one, go pick one up.  If you know and love one, then buy them one.

7.  ESV Grow Bible – Crossway

I received a sample chapter (book of Genesis) of this Bible.  I was blown away.  First it made me wish there had been a Bible like this when I was growing up, then it made me excited to buy this for my son in a few years.  If you have children get them this Bible!

6.  What Is The Mission Of The Church? – Kevin DeYoung & Greg Gilbert

I really enjoyed reading this book.  As I read it I never expected it would receive the criticism it did.  I think the authors point out so much that is needed in the discussion of missiology.  I recommend this book to all without reservation!

5.  The Christian Faith – Michael Horton

A systematic theology from one of, if not the, most important theologian of our time.  This book is a must have for your library!

4.  Note To Self – Joe Thorn

Each of the books in the top 4 have touched me deeply this year.  This little book by Joe Thorn caused me to hold onto scripture tighter and live it out more fervently than ever before.  Start 2012 by taking 48 days to go through this book, it will alter your life for good.

3.  Community – Brad House

I thought I understood community groups.  I mean I had led them, led my church to have them, been in some really good ones.  I was wrong and I am so glad Brad House showed me that in this book.  He has completely wrecked me from ever doing them in a shallow way again.

2.  Jesus + Nothing = Everything – Tullian Tchividjian

Completely remarkable!  Tullian is open, honest and hard hitting in this book, in a way that will bring the Gospel to you in a whole new way.

If you had asked me a month ago what would have topped this list I would have said this book without a doubt, but that was until I read…

1.  Gospel Wakefulness – Jared C. Wilson

Wow!  From the first page to the last Wilson never lets up with the Gospel, and I am thankful for that.  I am closing out this year by reading this book for a second time this week.  I imagine I will read it many many more times in the coming years.