Not a single month goes by without Christian publishers providing us with great new resources. Thankfully, most of those new books end up in my mailbox. That allows me to sort through them and distil them down to a list like this one: A list of new and notables. For each of them, I’ve included the publisher’s description. Hopefully there is something here that catches your eye!
Saved to Sin No More: How Union with Christ Empowers a Life of Holiness by Brad Wetherell. “Many Christians know what it’s like to feel worn down in the fight against sin. Others quietly settle into apathy, growing comfortable with the patterns they once resisted. What will free us to live a life of heartfelt obedience to Jesus Christ, pursuing him, and becoming more like him? Scripture points us to a single, liberating hope, with the power to free us for good. Encouraging for new Christians and lifelong believers, this book explores how union with Christ offers lasting freedom and hope, both in this life and beyond the grave. Chapter by chapter, pastor and author Brad Wetherell walks readers through key biblical passages, showing that in Christ we can marvel at the miracle of conversion, fight sin with greater confidence, and rest in the riches of God’s glorious grace.” (Buy it at Amazon)
Keeping Kids Christian: Recovering a Biblical Vision for Lifelong Discipleship by Cameron S. Shaffer. “As both a pastor and a parent, Cameron S. Shaffer is alarmed by the mass exodus of young people from the church over the past couple decades. The rise of the Nones and exvangelicals is clear evidence that our current children’s and youth ministry practices are ineffective and must change if we want to stem the tide of dechurching. Whatever we’re doing now is not creating lifelong disciples. Combining biblical and theological insights with the latest sociological research, Shaffer presents a comprehensive and compelling case not for retooling the system of child discipleship we already have in place but for reevaluating and reshaping it entirely. He explains just how conversion works, the importance of parental involvement, and the necessity of keeping kids and youth in church and involved with the whole community of faith rather than continually sending them away to do youth-centered activities. He also covers the big question of how to keep young people committed to their faith when they grow up, go to college, enter the workforce, and start families of their own. In this thoughtful book, pastors, children’s and youth ministers, church leaders, and Christian parents alike will find a clear path forward to keep kids Christian and keep them involved in the church.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Book of Ecclesiastes, 2nd ed. by Tremper Longman III (New International Commentary on the Old Testament). This is now the second edition of a highly regarded commentary. “Ecclesiastes is one of the most perplexing and haunting books of the Old Testament. The main speaker in the book, a figure known as Qohelet, ponders a question that people are still asking today: ‘Where can we find meaning in the world?’ But while the question itself is familiar, devout readers of Scripture may find Qohelet’s answer startling. ‘Meaningless,” says Qohelet, “everything is meaningless.’ For readers seeking to understand how this deeply pessimistic perspective fits into the rest of biblical revelation, Tremper Longman III’s commentary on Ecclesiastes is a trustworthy guide. In this updated edition, Longman maintains his canonical-Christocentric approach to interpreting Ecclesiastes but expands his discussion of secondary literature by engaging with recent scholarship from a wide range of authors—Stuart Weeks, John Goldingay, Arthur Keefer, Knut Heim, George Athas, and many others. This carefully researched commentary is an essential resource for pastors, seminary students, and thoughtful readers of Scripture.” (Buy it at Amazon)
The Gospel Coalition has released the initial volumes in a series titled “Disciplines of Devotion,” which is being authored by several different authors and edited by Winfree Brisley. “Each volume highlights one spiritual discipline—exploring its meaning, biblical examples, and benefits—and offers accessible ways to make this practice a spiritual habit.” The initial three are:
- Prayer by Courtney Reissig
- Fasting by Cassie Achermann
- Sabbath Rest by Megan Hill
Unveiling the Cross by W. Ross Blackburn. “In Unveiling the Cross, Ross Blackburn examines the Isaiah 6 vision of the Lord, ‘high and lifted up,’ in the light of New Testament revelation. Why did this encounter affect the prophet’s life so radically? What did he understand of the One on the throne? How is this ‘Day of Atonement’ scene connected to other heavenly visions in the Bible? In discussing these questions, the author discourses with two classic works, Hugh Martin’s The Atonement, and Sinclair B. Ferguson’s The Whole Christ. His treatment of Scripture – from the origin of ‘uncleanness’ in Genesis to the Lamb on the throne in Revelation – is incisive and masterful. Each page magnifies the Christ of the cross, the Christ of the throne, and the Christ who intercedes for his people. It is impossible to encounter this Lord of Hosts and remain unchanged.” (Buy it at Amazon)
God Is God and I’m Not: How God’s Sovereignty Matters Every Day by Timothy Z. Witmer. “At times, the ups and downs of life can leave us feeling lost at sea. When the winds of shifting circumstances bring trials beyond our control, where can we find an anchor for our souls? For Christians, our safe harbor in both the calm and the storm is found in God alone. In this book, Dr. Timothy Witmer offers encouragement for anyone worn out by the changing tides of life: the truth that God is in control. He pairs biblical insight with practical application, helping us find comfort in our sovereign God, no matter what lies ahead. This book provides: A biblical foundation for understanding God’s sovereignty; An overview of how the Lord’s reign influences all of life; Focused chapters on God’s sovereign help in temptation and forgiving others; And answers to common questions about divine sovereignty.” (Buy it at Amazon)
Science and God: Do You Have to Choose? by John Lennox & Katy Morgan. “Can science and faith mix? Teens come face to face with this question as their studies consider everything from the origins of the world to how DNA works. This captivating book is full of interesting facts and surprising stories that make the case for the Christian faith while exciting teens about science. Science and God is a collaboration between Oxford University scientist John Lennox and Katy Morgan, an author for young people. The book is both fun to read and serious about science and faith. Readers will explore… whether you can be a scientist and believe in God; the purpose and limits of science; why it’s reasonable to believe in God; how miracles and creation connect with science; and evidence for Jesus’ resurrection. No faith commitment or prior knowledge of science is needed for curious teens to consider the relationship between science and Christianity. They will learn as they engage with the topics covered and will be inspired to ask good questions about life, Jesus, and the nature of the universe.” (Buy it at Amazon)
More of Jesus: 50 Truths to Turn Your Heart to Praise by Jonty Allcock. This one is meant to be read around Easter, I suppose, but can encourage you at any time of the year. “Worship Jesus as the one who was, and is, and is to come! This uplifting devotional takes a fresh look at 50 incredible truths about Jesus. Each short chapter will draw you to behold Jesus—to marvel at his beautiful character, to love him more deeply, and to apply the truth of who he is to your life. These 50 powerful truths are explored in five distinct categories—you’ll praise Jesus as eternal, promised, incarnate, ascended, and returning. Perfect for reading any time of year and gifting to others, this inspiring devotional will turn your heart to praise.” (Buy it at Amazon)
The If That Changes Everything: What If You Could Believe That Jesus Rose from the Dead? by Mike Hood. “There are some things which, if they are true, change everything. If Jesus rose from the dead, it would transform what we think of God and how we see ourselves. We could make sense of some of the deepest mysteries of our existence and enjoy real hope in our everyday lives. But can a rational person actually believe that Jesus rose from the dead? Mike Hood wants to show you that you can. … Bringing together thoughtful examination of the evidence and real-life stories from people who have come to believe in Jesus’ resurrection, The If That Changes Everything shows how Christianity fits into and makes sense of our deepest questions and desires. Readers will be encouraged to see that faith in Jesus is both reasonable and life-changing in the best way.” (Buy it at Amazon)
In All Things Thee to See: A Devotional Guide to Selected Poems of George Herbert, selected by Stephen Witmer. “George Herbert, one of the greatest spiritual poets of all time, influenced many of Christianity’s most cherished writers including Richard Baxter, Charles Spurgeon, T. S. Eliot, and C. S. Lewis. His works, rich with vivid language, theological insight, and pastoral guidance, expand the reader’s capacity to experience and delight in Christ. In this devotional volume, Stephen Witmer presents 40 of George Herbert’s most impactful poems, favored for their brevity, accessibility, and relevance to contemporary Christians. With explanations of unfamiliar terms and concepts and brief devotional reflections, Witmer helps readers gain a deeper understanding of each poem and its application. This beautiful volume shepherds readers toward spiritual growth, inviting them not only to engage with Herbert’s poetry but also to encounter the God who inspired it.” (Buy it at Amazon)
The Wondrous Cross: Real Life reflections from the Transfiguration to the Cross by Wil & Lorraine Triggs. “Forty gospel-saturated reflections to encourage your faith. With a poetic and pastoral touch, Wil and Lorraine Triggs journey through the life of Jesus from the transfiguration to the cross. Interweaving heart-warming personal stories alongside Scripture, these reflections will help you ponder the beauty and wisdom of the salvation story. Why you’ll love The Wondrous Cross: Jesus-centred: Loosely following Jesus’ life in Mark’s gospel; Down to earth: Wil and Lorraine share personal stories alongside Scripture; All year round: Not just for lent – be encouraged any time of year. Fantastic for: Nurturing your faith during Lent (or any time of year); Reading with church family; Easter gifting.” (Buy it at Amazon)
Full of Grace and Truth: The Gospel and Sexuality in the Global Church by Vaughan Roberts. “In 2024, Vaughan Roberts was invited to address Christian leaders from 202 countries gathered for the Fourth Lausanne Congress. His topic of “Identity and Sexuality” could not have been more sensitive or more vital. Full of Grace and Truth contains reflections born from deep study of the Word and from his conversations with many. Together with Vaughan’s complete Lausanne talk, these provide a rich biblical vision of how Christians can engage compassionately and faithfully on issues of sexuality with those inside and outside the church.” It is just a short book, so it should prove easy and helpful reading. (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
The Origin of Hymns: It Is Well with My Soul by Robert J. Morgan. “Ever wonder how a simple hymn can carry the weight of centuries, heal broken hearts, and inspire unshakable faith? The Origin of Hymns isn’t just a book—it’s a time machine for your soul, taking you on a journey through the stories behind the songs that have shaped generations. Let’s uncover the faith, heartbreak, and triumph that birthed the hymns we know and love. A written and visual complement to the critically acclaimed movie, I Can Only Imagine 2. In The Origin of Hymns, Pastor Robert Morgan takes you behind the music, revealing the deeply human stories of faith, loss, and triumph that inspired beloved hymns. Morgan explores the history, evolution, and redemptive thread of 50 beloved hymns of the faithful, including the tragic yet uplifting story of how faith inspired Horatio Spafford to write the beloved hymn, ‘It Is Well with My Soul.’ Selectively curated from Morgan’s bestselling Then Sings My Soul series, these devotional-style stories show the emotion and drama behind the hymns of faith that have changed many lives throughout history—from the people whose faith led them to write these wonderful hymns to the people whose faith was affected by reading, hearing, and singing them.” (Buy it at Amazon)
Spurgeon Commentaries (7-Volume Set) by Charles Spurgeon, edited by Various. “These Spurgeon Commentaries collect Charles Spurgeon’s thoughts in a commentary format, along with sermon illustrations and applications. Illustrations are indexed by theme, enabling you to quickly find a fitting observation, whether you’re searching by topic or verse. Updated language brings greater clarity to the teachings of Spurgeon, allowing you to better understand and apply his rich insights.” (Buy it at Amazon (individual volumes) or Westminster Books (full set))
