New and Old Testament aside, there are plenty of devotionals, testimonies, and commentaries that can help us in our faith walk with God.

However, many books marketed as “faith-based” claim to offer a “good life” but are really just self-help writings with Jesus and God’s name inserted a bunch of times for credibility. Knowing which books to read can prove tricky.

To help you figure it out, here is a list of five books I have found helpful and believe every Christian should add to their reading list.   

If you have a suggestion, think my list is way off, or want me to pick up a new book on faith, tweet me! I’d love to hear from you! @D3anWindsor

1. The End of Reason: A Response to the New Atheists

Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias wrote The End of Reason as a response to atheist Author Sam Harris.  Not only does  Zacharias successfully refute Harris’ arguments, but he also does it with the grace and diplomacy of a true believer.

Do you know an unbeliever that you struggle to explain faith and God to? You’re not alone. This book will give you some great talking points next time you find yourself in that awkward yet inevitable conversation about God with a non-believer.

2. Sacrifice of Praise

First published by Herman Bavnik in 1901, the Sacrifice of Praise is still very relevant today. It focuses on what it means to be a Reformed Christian, other denominations, social justice, and most importantly, never being ashamed to publicly profess your love and faith in Jesus.

This book was widely popular in the 1900’s selling around 40,000 copies, and because it was such an easy read, it became very popular among teenagers. With only 12 chapters, you can knock this book out on an Autumn evening with ease. And the best part is, you can download it for free! Just head over to academia.edu and sign up as an “independent researcher” to access their free PDF books.

3. Supernatural: What the Bible Teaches About the Unseen World and Why It Matters

I have read this book multiple times because I enjoy it so much. Scholar Michael Heiser holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages. He uses his extensive understanding of the language used in the Old Testament to reinterpret and give us a glance into the realm of God, God’s counsel, Jesus, angels, demons, and where humans fit in according to the Old Testament.  

Unlike his book The Unseen Realm, which is more scholarly, Supernatural is more like an introduction into God’s hierarchy. Coming in at just under 100 pages, its a crash course in the world of theology, and will leave you wanting more.  

4.None Greater: The Undomesticated Attributes of God

Scholar Matthew Barrett draws inspiration from Anselm, Augustine, and Aquinas’ philosophical styles. He helps the reader better understand God by using a set of familiar attributes that include; omnipresence, righteousness, goodness, love, jealousy, and glory.

In the chapter “Impassability,” Barrett transforms the issue of God’s insurmountable presence, which can be difficult for some to understand, into light and easily digestible reading. This is a book that both pastors and parishioners can appreciate.

5.Evangelism as Exiles

Evangelize much? Well, Evangelist Elliot Clark, who has spent years doing missionary work in a predominantly Muslim country, encourages his reader to focus more on evangelism. He reminds us that although we may feel like outcasts because of our love of Jesus, that pales in comparison to what other Christians have faced.

Reflecting on the epistle of Peter, Elliot shows us that we shouldn’t be afraid to not fit in with society, never be ashamed of our faith, and always treat others with hospitality and kindness. This book is another quick read.