35 Books to Read Before You Turn 25
(Or Whenever!)
According to Rev. Michael Spotts
Download printable Checklist (.pdf)
The goal of reading thirty-five non-fiction books might seem daunting to someone who rarely reads for pleasure. But it’s more manageable than you think: over the course of five years, this list works out to about 30 minutes of reading per week. Or just five minutes per day (I did the math). More importantly, it is time well spent because you are laying a spiritual foundation for decades to come.
The following selections are based on my own reading of many hundreds of books. The titles cover a wide range of topics, starting more basic and becoming intermediate-level. Together, I think they provide a strong foundation in the Christian faith from a Reformed perspective. Certainly, many more could be added. In addition to these essentials, feel free to explore my other lists of recommended reading.
Scripture
The Holy Bible — English Standard Version recommended
For tips on how to approach Bible reading, see “How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth.”
Confessional Documents
Outside of the Bible, there is no better place to begin learning about the Christian faith than one of these time-tested documents confessed by millions of believers.
Books
Here are the synopses and reasons to read each of these books:
Welcome to a Reformed Church by Daniel R. Hyde
A clear and accessible introduction to the beliefs, practices, and history of Reformed churches. An excellent resource for those new to Reformed theology or seeking a deeper understanding of its distinctives.God Has Spoken by J. I. Packer
Packer explores the authority and relevance of the Bible, emphasizing its role as God's revealed Word. A foundational read for understanding the significance of Scripture in the life of a Christian.Knowing God by J. I. Packer
This classic work delves into the nature and character of God, encouraging believers to deepen their relationship with Him. A must-read for anyone seeking to grow in their understanding of who God is and what it means to know Him personally.The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
Strobel, a former atheist, investigates the historical evidence for Jesus, leading to his conversion to Christianity. A compelling read for skeptics and believers alike, offering a journalist's perspective on the evidence for Christ's life, death, and resurrection.The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy Keller
Keller addresses common objections to Christianity, presenting a rational case for belief in God in a skeptical age. A thoughtful and engaging book that helps believers and skeptics alike grapple with difficult questions about faith.The Hole in Our Holiness by Kevin DeYoung
DeYoung challenges Christians to pursue holiness, addressing the gap between what we believe about holiness and how we live it out. A thought-provoking call to embrace the pursuit of holiness as an essential aspect of the Christian life.The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan
This allegorical tale follows Christian on his journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, symbolizing the Christian life. As one of the most influential works in Christian literature, it offers timeless spiritual insights and encouragement for believers.Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand
Wurmbrand recounts his experiences of persecution and imprisonment for his faith under Communist rule in Romania. A powerful testimony of courage and faith in the face of severe persecution, inspiring believers to stand firm in their own faith.What’s in the Bible by R. C. Sproul
Sproul provides an overview of the Bible’s contents, explaining the major themes and structure of Scripture. An accessible and informative guide for those looking to understand the big picture of the Bible and how its books fit together.How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth by Gordon Fee
Fee and Stuart provide a practical guide to interpreting the Bible, helping readers understand the different genres and contexts of Scripture. A valuable resource for anyone wanting to read the Bible with greater understanding and accuracy.Covenantal Baptism by Jason Helopulous
Helopulous explains the practice of infant baptism from a covenantal perspective, rooted in Reformed theology. An excellent resource for parents, pastors, and church members who want to understand the biblical basis for covenantal baptism.Chosen by God by R. C. Sproul
Sproul explores the doctrine of predestination, offering a clear and biblical explanation of this often misunderstood topic. A foundational work for those wrestling with or seeking to understand the doctrine of election in the Reformed tradition.Killing Calvinism: How to Destroy a Perfectly Good Theology from the Inside by Greg Dutcher
Dutcher examines the pitfalls and dangers that can undermine a faithful adherence to Calvinism from within. A candid and self-reflective critique that helps Reformed believers avoid common mistakes and maintain a humble, Christ-centered faith.Christians Get Depressed Too by David Murray
Murray addresses the reality of depression among Christians, offering biblical encouragement and practical advice. A compassionate and balanced resource for understanding depression and supporting those who struggle with it, rooted in biblical truth.Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life by Donald S. Whitney
Whitney guides readers through key spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and fasting, showing their importance for spiritual growth. A practical and motivating guide for believers who want to deepen their walk with God through intentional spiritual practices.Pocket Book of Church History by D. Jeffrey Bingham
This concise overview of church history covers key events, figures, and developments from the early church to the present. An accessible introduction to church history that provides a valuable context for understanding the development of Christian doctrine and practice.Counsel From the Cross by Elyse Fitzpatrick
Fitzpatrick offers gospel-centered counsel for believers, applying the truths of the cross to everyday struggles and challenges. A deeply encouraging and practical book for anyone seeking to apply the gospel to their life and relationships.The Valley of Vision by Arthur Bennet
A collection of Puritan prayers and devotions, offering deep spiritual insights and rich theological reflections. A timeless resource for personal devotion, helping believers deepen their prayer life with biblically rich and theologically profound prayers.The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther
Luther’s seminal work on the human will argues for the necessity of divine grace in overcoming the bondage of sin. A crucial read for understanding the Reformation’s emphasis on grace and the human inability to choose God apart from His intervention.Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther by Roland H. Bainton (revised edition, 2017)
This biography of Martin Luther vividly recounts his life, struggles, and impact on the Reformation. A compelling and accessible portrait of one of the most influential figures in Christian history, essential for understanding the Reformation.The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert Coleman
Coleman outlines Jesus’ strategy for evangelism, focusing on disciple-making as the key to effective ministry. A classic work on evangelism that emphasizes the importance of intentional discipleship and multiplication in fulfilling the Great Commission.Practical Religion by J. C. Ryle
Ryle addresses the importance of living out one’s faith in everyday life, emphasizing the need for practical godliness. A timeless exhortation to live out the Christian faith with sincerity and conviction, offering practical advice for godly living.Confessions by Augustine of Hippo
Augustine’s autobiographical work reflects on his sinful past and conversion, offering profound theological insights. A foundational Christian classic that provides a deep and introspective look at the human heart, sin, and God’s grace.The Identity & Attributes of God by Terry L. Johnson
Johnson explores the character and attributes of God, providing a rich and detailed study of who God is according to Scripture. A deep theological resource for those who want to know God more fully and understand His attributes in greater detail.The God Who is There by Francis Schaeffer
Schaeffer addresses the challenges of modern secularism, presenting a Christian worldview that engages with contemporary culture. A thought-provoking defense of the Christian faith that equips believers to engage thoughtfully with the intellectual and cultural challenges of the modern world.The Deep Things of God: How the Trinity Changes Everything by Fred Sanders
Sanders explores the significance of the Trinity for the Christian life, showing how this doctrine is foundational to every aspect of faith. A profound and accessible exploration of the Trinity, offering fresh insights into how this central doctrine shapes our understanding of God and the Christian life.The Mission of God’s People by Christopher Wright
Wright explores how the entire biblical narrative informs and shapes the church's mission, emphasizing that every believer is called to participate in God's redemptive work in the world. This book provides a holistic and theologically rich understanding of mission, making it essential for anyone seeking to align their life and ministry with God's overarching purpose.Providence by John Piper
Piper explores the biblical doctrine of providence, showing how God’s sovereign control extends over all aspects of life. A comprehensive and awe-inspiring study of God’s providence, offering deep comfort and assurance for believers in the midst of life’s uncertainties.The Wonderful Works of God by Herman Bavink
Bavinck presents a comprehensive and accessible overview of Reformed theology, covering the doctrines of God, creation, salvation, and more. A rich and profound theological work that offers believers a deep understanding of the core tenets of the Christian faith from a Reformed perspective.Balanced Christianity by John Stott
Stott addresses the need for balance in the Christian life, exploring how to hold together truth and love, head and heart, and evangelism and social action.
A wise and practical guide for maintaining a balanced approach to faith and life in a world prone to extremes.The Weight of Glory by C. S. Lewis
A collection of Lewis’s essays on Christian theology, ethics, and the nature of glory, offering profound reflections on the Christian life. A rich and thought-provoking read that challenges believers to live with a deeper awareness of God’s glory and our eternal destiny.Early Church Fathers by Cyril Richardson
This anthology offers selections from the writings of key early Christian thinkers, providing insight into the development of Christian doctrine and practice. A valuable resource for understanding the foundations of Christian theology and the historical context of the early church.No Place for Truth: Or Whatever Happened to Evangelical Theology? by David Wells
Wells critiques the state of evangelicalism, arguing that it has drifted away from serious theological reflection. A thought-provoking and challenging book that calls for a return to doctrinal seriousness and theological integrity in the church.Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality by Nancy Pearcey
Pearcey addresses contemporary issues related to sexuality, gender, and the human body, offering a Christian perspective on these cultural debates. A timely and insightful book that helps Christians navigate the complex moral and ethical challenges of modern society.The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman
Trueman traces the historical and philosophical roots of modern identity, exploring how we arrived at our current understanding of the self. A profound and illuminating analysis of contemporary culture, offering Christians a framework for understanding and engaging with modern challenges to the faith.
BONUS: The Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin (Trans. by Robert White)
Calvin’s magnum opus systematically outlines Christian theology from a Reformed perspective, covering topics such as God, salvation, and the church. A foundational text for understanding Reformed theology and a cornerstone of Christian theological literature for five centuries.
