I enjoy books in a variety of genres – theology, Christian living, biography, leadership, professional development, sports, etc. A few times each year I like to share a list of new and upcoming books that you might be interested in. Here are nine new and upcoming books, along with a bonus – my new book A Leader Worth Following.
Holy Week: The Week That Changed the World by R.C. Sproul
To be released March 6.
From the Amazon description:
“We’ve all experienced life-changing moments. Our calendars are marked with anniversaries of enduring significance. But Holy Week is a celebration of the most important week in history, the week that changed the world. It recalls Jesus’ final days in Jerusalem when the Son of God accomplished His mission to bring forgiveness of sin and eternal life to all who trust in Him.
This book collects several of Dr. R.C. Sproul’s reflections on the climactic week in Jesus’ redemptive ministry. In these pages, you will:
- Examine the meaning of the Last Supper,
- Witness the drama of Judas’ betrayal,
- Consider the gravity of Christ’s atoning death, and
- Dwell on the significance of Jesus’ resurrection.
Holy Week is a book for anyone seeking to understand the events at the heart of Christianity. Here is life-changing good news to help cultivate faith in and devotion to the Savior.”
Wiser with Jesus: Overcoming the Temptations That Hinder Your Relationships, Steal Your Time, Mar Your Decision-Making and Thwart Your Purpose by Zack Eswine
To be published March 11.
From the Amazon Description:
“The biblical book of Proverbs exemplifies how to live life on this earth in the best way possible. However, rather than giving us step-by-step instructions on how to live a more efficient, productive, and successful life, the ancient book of Proverbs encourages us to meditate on the person, posture and pace of wisdom.
In our pursuit of wisdom as Christians, we find that ultimate wisdom is embodied in Christ. We must pursue wisdom as we would a person, relationally and with love. The posture of wisdom is one of humility and teachability, and the pace of wisdom encourages meditation rather than immediate action.
In this valuable book, Zack Eswine shows us how these things play out in our everyday lives. He emphasizes the importance of relating wisely to people, including to ourselves, before considering how to grow wiser in life skills. But to grow wiser of heart, whether with people or with life skills, wisdom invites us to prayer and community. Biblical wisdom invites us to seek wiser hearts in communal rather than lonely ways.
This book is a treasure for anyone seeking to live life more wisely.”
War of Words: Getting to the Heart of Your Communication Struggles (Second Edition) by Paul Tripp
To be released March 26.
From the Amazon description:
“The gospel radically changes the way we understand and solve our communication problems. With teaching based on four fundamental, life-altering principles, Tripp reshapes our perspective and transforms our fight.”
Pippa and the Singing Tree: Joining the Song of All Creation by Kristyn Getty, illustrated by P.J. Lynch
To be published April 15.
From the Amazon description:
“The whole earth is a symphony to God. The universe echoes his glory, and believers harmonize with songs of adoration. In the illustrated book Pippa and the Singing Tree, singer and hymn writer Kristyn Getty teaches children how they can answer Scripture’s call to worship.
Playing outside one chilly autumn day, Pippa is surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. The great trees, robins, and icy winds―depicted in charming lyrical prose―all witness to God’s majesty. Moved by the beauty around her, Pippa lifts her voice, adding her own song to the chorus.
Combining beauty and rhythm with artwork by P. J. Lynch, this story makes a great gift or church resource. In a special note at the end of the book, Getty shares some of her favorite psalms, along with prompts that will inspire kids to worship the Lord.
- Written by Kristyn Getty: Grammy-nominated singer brings her lyrical talent to a book on worship
- Illustrated Story for Ages 5–8: Rhythmic prose and beautiful illustrations capture kids’ imaginations
- A Great Gift for Families and Churches: Perfect for story time or as a supplemental Sunday school resource
Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind by Nate Bargatze
To be published May 6)
From the Amazon description:
“Nate Bargatze used to be a genius. That is, until the summer after seventh grade when he slipped, fell off a cliff, hit his head on a rock, and “my skull got, like, dented or something.” Before this accident, he dreamed of being “an electric engineer, or a doctor that does brain stuff, or a math teacher who teaches the hardest math on earth.” Afterwards, all he could do was standup.* But the “brain stuff” industry’s loss is everyone else’s gain because Nate went on to become one of today’s top-grossing comedians, breaking both attendance and streaming records.
In his highly anticipated first book, Nate talks about life as a non-genius. From stories about his first car (named Old Blue, a clunky Mazda with a tennis ball stick-shift) and his travels as a Southerner (Northerners like to ask if he believes in dinosaurs), to tales of his first apartment where he was almost devoured by rats and his many debates with his wife over his chores, his diet, and even his definition of “shopping.” He also reflects on such heady topics as his irrational passion for Vandy football and the mysterious origins of sushi (how can a California roll come from old-time Japan?).
BIG DUMB EYES is full of heart. It will make readers laugh out loud and nod in recognition, but it probably won’t make them think too much.
*Nate’s family disputes this entire story”
The Multigenerational Church Crisis: Why We Don’t Understand Each Other and How to Unite in Mission by Bryan Chapell
To be published May 6.
From the Amazon description:
“It may seem hard for younger Christians to believe that people over 50 were raised during an era when 90 percent of Americans identified as Christian. These older believers were once part of a majority group that understood the mission of the church was to take control of our culture to halt its evils. At the same time, Christians under 50 have lived their entire lives perceiving themselves as a minority that needs to make credible their faith to a secular, pluralistic culture.
These distinct experiences and perceptions have a profound impact on the priorities different generations have for church ministry. It’s no wonder that younger and older believers don’t always see eye to eye! But imagine what could be accomplished in the name of Christ if we could better understand each other and turn that understanding into shared purpose and aligned priorities?
Backed by thorough research, this eminently practical and hopeful book from pastor and scholar Bryan Chapell shows you how to open the lines of communication, appreciate the experiences that shaped each generation in your church, and unite in one mission to impact your community and the world.”
Thirty Second Theology: Questions and Answers to Build Your Faith by Sinclair Ferguson
To be published May 13.
From the Amazon description:
“Thirty Second Theology is the perfect guide for teens who want to understand the basics of Christianity without getting bogged down in complex language. This easy-to-read book breaks down seventy-seven key aspects of the Christian faith into quick, 30-second questions and answers that fit perfectly into your busy life.
Ever wondered what God is really like? Why we’re here? Or what happens after we die? This book tackles these big questions and more, explaining them in a way that’s relevant to your daily life. From understanding who Jesus is to figuring out how to pray, Thirty Second Theology has got you covered.
Each topic comes with a memory verse to help the ideas stick, and suggested Bible readings if you want to dive deeper. It’s like having a friendly guide right at your fingertips, ready to explain things whenever you need.
Whether you’re new to faith, grew up in church but have questions, or just want to understand what your Christian friends are talking about, this book is for you. It’s perfect for personal reflection, youth group discussions, or tackling those tricky questions your non-Christian friends might ask.
Get ready to boost your faith knowledge in just seconds a day!”
You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful by Karen Swallow Prior
To be published August 5.
From the Amazon description:
“Some people are lucky enough to get paid to do what they love. But many are not.
What if your vocation doesn’t align with your passion? In You Have a Calling, award-winning author Karen Swallow Prior has encouraging news: If we pursue the good, true, and beautiful in all our work, we will find our greatest fulfillment.
In an age when passion and calling are often confused, Prior helps readers understand that passions come from within and calling, or our vocation, comes from without and is about being called by others to serve. That crucial distinction can help us understand how God can use both our passions and our work, even if for different purposes.
This book will appeal to everyone who wants to know that their daily work, ordinary though it may be, can fulfill a higher calling to God. Readers will emerge with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing they are created for virtue in all they do because they are created in the image of God.”
John Knox: The Boy Who Changed a Country by Sinclair Ferguson, illustrated by Cecilia Messina
To be published September 1.
From the Amazon description:
“A true tale of adventure, the story of John Knox inspires kids to have courage because of Christ.
Kids will follow John Knox’s exciting life through the twists and turns of persecution, enslavement, exile, and a crucial role in the Reformation.
Vivid illustrations bring the cannons, castles, and other features of John Knox’s story to life. Renowned theologian Sinclair Ferguson’s engaging storytelling conveys a clear call to trust in Jesus.
This book is part of the Do Great Things for God series, designed to show kids how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Download free extras such as worksheets to help children interact with the true story and think of ways in which they can also follow God and encourage his people today.
This series can be read to young children or enjoyed independently by early readers. The free extras make these stories useful for homeschool, Sunday school, missions events, and more.”
A Leader Worth Following by Bill Pence
My new book is available in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon.
From the Amazon description:
“Why another book on leadership?
What makes this book different is that I bring my unique perspective from various leadership roles ~ almost 38 years at a Fortune 50 organization and nearly 30 years in the church ~ to look at 40 key attributes or characteristics of effective leaders. If you can master these key leadership attributes, you will be a leader that others will want to follow.
You become a leader others will want to follow from the inside out. The majority of these attributes are not so much about skills, abilities or experience, but they come from the heart. After looking at these qualities, take a look at some applications of the attributes and become a leader others want to follow.
Endorsement Excerpts:
This book would be an excellent read for any new leader or leader seeking to hone and improve their leadership skills.
Jim Bell, M.S. Education
Anyone who picks up this book will find it encouraging, challenging, and empowering to help you be a leader worth following.
Joe Calio, Campus Outreach Staff Member
This little book on leadership has a wealth of time and experience and wisdom behind it. If you give this book your time, I think you will be blessed like I have been by the man and his wisdom as they come through in his writing.
Justin Coverstone, Pastor, Grace Fellowship Church (PCA)
I was privileged to report to Bill during a portion of my career. He was a true servant leader who excelled in his career and exemplified these leadership attributes on a daily basis. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills.
Kellie Gualazzi, Retired Technical Analyst from a Fortune 50 organization
Bill’s leadership experience and examples and observations show years of lessons which can be applied to anyone seeking career advancement. I highly recommend this book to someone beginning a leadership journey, as well as someone who has a long career.
Jason M. Halm, Technology Analyst
Bill has been an exceptional leader. His mentoring has been from the heart and has provided excellent input when a person needs help to move forward. His servant leadership style has been shown both inside and outside the workplace.
Karen Meister, Retired Director from a Fortune 50 organization
Bill Pence is a faithful elder at our church and a leader in our congregation. He and his wife Tammy have served and set an example of servant leadership for many years. In this book he offers very accessible nuggets of leadership wisdom that he has gleaned over the years.
Pastor Brad Lucht, Christ Church, PCA in Normal, IL
I have the opportunity to serve alongside Bill as we seek to mentor future pastors. I appreciate Bill’s passion for raising up leaders, coming alongside them with encouragement and wisdom from his years of experience.
Pastor Stephen Lawrence, Exodus Church, PCA Springfield, IL
I think this book can be read cover-to-cover as a training tool for new leaders (or reminder for others). But I also think it’s valuable as a reference work where you can re-read sections that apply to what you’re facing today.
Al Williams, Leadership roles in Bell Labs and other companies (semi-retired)
Bill Pence always does a great job of blending personal and practical leadership. I’ve found that other books often rely fully on relational management or tactical management, but his focus is on providing the tools that create effective leadership. More than anything else he simplifies complicated principles so that they’re easily digested and implemented.
Drew Williams, CEO, Allied Outdoor Solutions
I recommend reading a chapter a day. By the time you get to the end, if you’re anything like me, you’ll need all of the first reminders again.
Mark Alan Williams, PhD, MFA, Entrepreneur, executive, and Pushcart-nominated poet
I hope you find something you are looking forward to reading in these 10 new and upcoming books. What other books are you looking forward to reading in 2025?
