I have been asked for some recommendation for books over the break, so I will devote the next few posts to just that. The titles of these books are links to Amazon. Any purchases using these links directly benefits Chi Alpha Campus Ministries at Boston University. Starting with books that concern:
Questions of Faith
The Last Word
Scripture and the Authority of God--Getting Beyond the Bible Wars
By N. T. Wright
Why does Scripture have authority in our lives? Why should it? This is the question Wright tackles in this small but well thought through book. Wright begins by stating, “…the phrase ‘authority of scripture’ can make Christian sense only if it is shorthand for ‘the authority of the triune God, exercised somehow through scripture.” He then explores God’s purposes in the world and in our own lives and then explains Scriptures part in all that. N. T. Wright writes as both a theologian and a leading historian. His understanding allows him to be very clear and understandable. You won’t get lost in the technicalities. This is the best book on this subject I have encountered.
Between Heaven & Hell
By Peter Kreeft
John F. Kennedy, C. S. Lewis, and Aldous Huxley died on the same day. In this dramatic dialog, they find themselves together in a small waiting room and discuss what they believe will come next. Kennedy plays the part of a liberal Catholic, Huxley is an Eastern pantheist, and Peter Kreeft plays the part of C. S. Lewis. Fast-paced, humorous, and insightful, this is a great way to explore some of the major reasons for faith.
Finding Darwin’s God
A Scientist’s Search For Common Ground Between God And Evolution
By Kenneth R. Miller
Miller is a professor in the Department of Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry at Brown University and a believing Christian. This book is intended for all those who think the Scriptures and evolution are fundamentally opposed whether they are believers or atheists. He looks at what Scripture actually says about God and creation and what Christians have historically believed. His exploration is challenging and liberating at the same time. His ability to explain biology and Scripture make this book accessible to everyone.
Reverse Thunder
The Revelation of John & the Praying Imagination
By Eugene H. Peterson
The Apostle John’s writing reflects a unique blend of theologian, artist, and pastor, so it’s fitting that someone who shares the same qualities would write an insightful meditation on the Book of Revelation. The Book of Revelation was written to give hope and inspiration to a real congregation and was understood at the time it was received. Peterson helps us to read this second gospel by John the way it was intended, unraveling the imaginative imagery that John used. This is a fascinating, encouraging explanation of a very practical book of the Bible that is too often overlooked.
(Books bought from these links directly benefit Chi Alpha Campus Ministries at Boston University)
