I enjoy reading books in a variety of genres (theology, faith and work, leadership, biography, etc.). A few times each year I like to share about new and upcoming books that I am aware of that you might be interested in. Here are eleven of them:
From the Rising of the Sun: A Journey of Worship Around the World by Tim Challies and Tim Keesee
This book will be published August 19.
From the Amazon description:
“Get ready to travel the globe and experience the beauty of Christian worship like never before. From the Rising of the Sun takes you on an unforgettable journey, showcasing how believers from all corners of the earth praise God in ways that are consistent with Scripture but faithful to the local language, customs, and culture. And here’s the best part–this book includes a code for free streaming access to a 12-episode video series, so you can witness these incredible moments of worship for yourself!
Starting in Fiji, you’ll follow the sun as it rises and sets, moving through Australia, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and beyond. Along the way, you’ll meet brothers and sisters in Christ who worship amidst stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and remote jungles. From the hymns sung in Korea’s bustling metropolises to the prayers offered in Zambia’s open plains, you’ll see and feel the unity and diversity of God’s people.
Each chapter invites you into the heart of a country or region and includes:
- Beautiful descriptions of diverse worship.
- Fascinating travel anecdotes.
- Meaningful Bible studies.
- Reflections on worship.
- Discussion questions.
- A video session to enhance your experience.
Whether you’re passionate about global missions, fascinated by cultural diversity, or simply looking to deepen your understanding of worship, From the Rising of the Sun will inspire and uplift you. Take this unique opportunity to celebrate God’s glory through the voices of believers worldwide, and see how the Gospel unites us all.
Join this global symphony and experience a taste of Revelation 5:9 as we, along with our brothers and sisters worldwide, worship the One who by His blood has “ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
The Message of the Old Testament: Promises Made by Mark Dever
This book will be published August 26.
From the Amazon description:
“The Old Testament is the story of God’s promises to his people. Below its somewhat obscure surface is hidden magnificent truth about the love and power of God. Throughout its pages the reader can find promise after promise from God, all of which are fulfilled in the New Testament―in the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
Based on sermons in the early years of Mark Dever’s ministry at Capitol Hill Baptist Church, The Message of the Old Testament explores the Old Testament as a glorious whole so that readers are able to see the big picture of the majesty of God and the wonder of his promises.
- Big-Picture Analysis: Covers each book of the Old Testament concisely and accurately
- Appeals to Pastors and Laypeople Alike: A helpful resource for gaining a deeper understanding of the Bible or preaching an overview sermon to a congregation
- Written by Mark Dever: Based on 28 sermons taught at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC”
The Message of the New Testament: Promises Kept by Mark Dever
This book will be published August 26.
From the Amazon description:
“The New Testament is the story of how all the promises made by God in the Old Testament were kept―and what that means for us today. The nation of Israel had many hopes: hope for a deliverer, hope for restored fellowship with God, and hope for the world to be put right. The New Testament explains how those promises were kept and how, if we are Christians, they are kept in us as well.
Based on 28 sermons in the early years of Mark Dever’s ministry at Capitol Hill Baptist Church, The Message of the New Testament surveys the historical context, organization, and theology of each New Testament book, in light of God’s Old Testament promises. Dever’s message echoes that of the New Testament―one of fulfilled hope.
- Big-Picture Analysis: Covers each book of the New Testament concisely and accurately
- Appeals to Pastors and Laypeople Alike: A helpful resource for gaining a deeper understanding of the Bible or preaching an overview sermon to a congregation
- Written by Mark Dever: Based on 28 sermons taught at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC”
Come You Weary by Michael Reeves
This book will be published September 1.
From the Amazon description:
“Are you weary? Does the Christian life feel like drudgery? What can lift you up, cure your cold and flattened heart, and fill you with deep and lasting joy?
The reality is that we will only be as full as the well we drink from, and many of us drink from very shallow wells indeed. This book is an invitation to every thirsty Christian, however weary and flat you are feeling, however weak and unworthy you consider yourself, to come to the waters and drink deeply.
You will do this as you contemplate the sight, the vision, that transforms from glory to glory.”
The Man on the Middle Cross by Alistair Begg
This book will be published September 1.
From the Amazon description:
“Imagine… You’re waiting at the gates of heaven when you’re asked, “Why should we let you in?” What would you say? Could you meet the entry requirements? This short and engaging book by Alistair Begg introduces three ordinary people who had no way to be sure what was in store beyond this life—until they discovered an extraordinary hope. This is the offer of the gospel: An eternity not dependent on effort or endeavor, but on the one who stands inviting us to “come.””
The Sing! Hymnal by Keith & Kristyn Getty
This will be published September 2.
From the Amazon description:
“Blending music and poetry, hymns beautifully bring Christian theology to life. With each verse, rich lyrics echo the timeless truths of Scripture and proclaim the unchanging message of salvation. For centuries, Christians have used these treasured resources in private and corporate worship, and The Sing! Hymnal now presents the profound beauty of hymnody to the next generation.
Thoughtfully curated by award-winning hymn writers Keith and Kristyn Getty, The Sing! Hymnal hosts a collection of timeless classic and contemporary hymns, created to deepen worship and foster unity among God’s people through the power of song. Featuring liturgical readings, psalms paired with popular hymns, useful indexes, and a durable, scuff-resistant cover, this hymnal is perfect for equipping attendees during Sunday morning services.
- Timeless: 498 classic and contemporary hymns are carefully curated and beautifully presented in a treasured resource you can carry with you through life
- Designed for Church Use: With a durable, scuff-resistant cover and sewn binding, this hymnal is suitable for frequent use
- Enhance Worship: Featuring 403 liturgical readings, psalms paired with popular hymns, and stories about each hymn, this resource is perfect for church services and group gatherings, as well as private and family worship
- Contributions by Keith and Kristyn Getty: Award-winning hymn writers of popular songs including “In Christ Alone” and “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death”
- Voices from Church History: Liturgical readings include quotations from classical and contemporary writers and theologians, including Augustine of Hippo, Francis of Assisi, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Bunyan, Charles Spurgeon, C. S. Lewis, Billy Graham, J. I. Packer, John Piper, Joni Eareckson Tada, Dane Ortlund, and H. B. Charles Jr.
- Part of the Sing! Hymnal Suite of Resources: Includes a lay-flat edition with chords, designed for easier page turning and reading, along with a website for purchasing and downloading hymn sheet music”
We Sing!: Teaching Kids to Praise God with Heart and Voice by Kristyn Getty, Illustrated by Laura K. Sayers
This book will be published September 2.
From the Amazon description:
“Join this song, each girl, each boy, until the world resounds with joy. God created his children to sing! Through music, we can express our heartfelt praise, weave the gospel into our daily lives, and grow in our understanding of the Lord. Written by acclaimed singer and hymn writer Kristyn Getty, We Sing! beautifully highlights the power and joy of worshiping God through song.
With lively rhyming verses and engaging illustrations, We Sing! helps children ages 3–8 connect with important biblical truths: worship is for everyone, every day, and forever. This book invites families to read, sing, and live out its message together, praising God and joyfully reflecting on all he has done for us.
- Memorable: Rhyming language and beautiful illustrations stick in the minds of young readers
- Written by Kristyn Getty: Award-winning singer-songwriter of many popular hymns including “In Christ Alone” and “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death”
- Biblical: Teaches readers that worship is for everyone, every day, and forever
- Designed for Ages 3–8”
Everyday Gospel Christmas Devotional by Paul Tripp
This book will be published October 14.
From the Amazon description:
“Jesus’s birth isn’t the beginning of the Christmas story. The glorious narrative of redemption starts when sin enters the world and continues until Christ’s victorious return. In this special devotional, Paul David Tripp helps you celebrate your salvation by reflecting on biblical events―from Genesis through Revelation―that make Jesus’s incarnation so miraculous.
Adapted from Tripp’s 365-day devotional Everyday Gospel, this condensed edition features 25 selected readings, each with study questions, making it ideal for personal study or family devotions. Count down to Christmas Day with Tripp’s heartfelt reflections and contemplate the beauty and significance of the Savior’s birth.
- Great Christmas Activity: Devotional leads individuals, families, and churches on a guided journey through the full gospel narrative
- Adapted from the Everyday Gospel Devotional: Written by Paul David Tripp, these 25 condensed readings are taken from his full 365-day devotional
- Part of the Everyday Gospel Suite: Also includes the Everyday Gospel book and the ESV Everyday Gospel Bible
- Fosters Consistent Bible Study: Inspires readers to apply God’s word daily and experience renewal through the gospel
- Features Study Questions for Each Daily Reading”
What Is Wrong with the World?: The Surprising, Hopeful Answer to the Question We Cannot Avoid by Tim Keller
This book will be published October 21.
From the Amazon description:
“Everywhere we look, we see brokenness–wars, cruelty, and heartache. We feel it in the world around us and in our own lives. How did it get to be this way?
During his tenure as founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, Timothy Keller explained on a weekly basis how the Bible provides the most comprehensive and sophisticated response to the fundamental questions of life. In What Is Wrong with the World?, based on a series of teachings given at Redeemer, Keller answers the title’s pressing question by revealing that the only thing that can account for the world’s pain and chaos is what the Bible calls sin. This clear-eyed and ultimately hopeful book reveals how sin is not simply a “bad” thing we do but something much more subtle and complex, affecting our relationships, our thinking, and every aspect of our existence. And only when we recognize sin for what it is can we find the profound, life-transforming answer our souls long for. What Is Wrong with the World? is for anyone who:
- Feels overwhelmed at the state of the world
- Battles with repeated mistakes and poor choices
- Desires more than pat answers to difficult questions
- Wonders how to know joy while still acknowledging pain
- Wants to understand how God’s love gives hope even in the hardest of places
Today’s battles across the globe and in our own hearts are not the end of the story. As Keller writes, “If we stand any chance of answering the question of what is wrong with the world . . . we must begin with understanding the complexity and multifaceted nature of sin, and end with understanding the unfailing love of a God who chooses to save us from it. This book will show you how.”
What If I Don’t Like My Church’s Music? by Matt Boswell
This book will be published November 4.
From the Amazon description:
“When believers worship as one, they delight in the Lord, encourage each other, and declare God’s glory to the world. But sometimes, singing together can be difficult, or even frustrating, due to incompatible music styles or traditions. How can Christians overcome these differences and learn to sing in harmony?
In this accessible booklet, pastor and musician Matthew Boswell helps readers offer heartfelt, Christ-centered praise during church, even when they don’t like the music or aren’t familiar with the lyrics. He emphasizes the biblical significance of worship in a person’s relationship with God, their discipleship with fellow believers, and their witness to others. Redirecting the focus away from personal preferences, this booklet reminds Christians of the many reasons they have to glorify God with thankful hearts.
- Applicable: Developed to give Scripture-based insight into common questions around corporate worship
- Edifying for Church Congregants and Seekers: An accessible resource for those new to church or Christians looking to revitalize worship in their congregations
- Part of the Church Questions Series: Other titles include How Can I Make the Most of Sunday Services?; Why Should I Join a Church?; and What Is the Church’s Mission?”
Hints of Hope: Essays on Making Peace with the Proximate by Steven Garber
This book will be published January 20.
From the Amazon description:
“Through eight lyrical and reflective essays, one of today’s most thoughtful spiritual writers Steven Garber explores the idea of the “proximate”―a word from the Latin “proximatus,” to draw near. Garber invites us to draw near to the deepest realities of life and to see with greater clarity and compassion―recognizing what is true, right, and beautiful in the world, even as we see the suffering all around us.
Hints of Hope probes what it means to be human; to wrestle with the contradictions we all face in our marriages, in our workplaces, in our friendships and vocations. We all experience beauty and brokenness, wonder and despair, joy and sorrow. We live with disappointment and grief and pain . . . wanting more, expecting more, but never being completely fulfilled. Paradoxically, as we make peace with the proximate, our vision is expanded to see more clearly the glimmers of beauty and grace that thread their way through our lives. Garber suggests that those hints of hope are enough in this frail world of ours, “a world stretched taut between what is and what someday will be.”
Written in memoir form, Hints of Hope weaves together decades of Garber’s travels, teaching, and personal musings to offer a tapestry of wisdom on vocation, culture, faith, and hope. Readers of Wendell Berry, Parker Palmer, Marilyn McEntyre, Philip Yancey, and Frederick Buechner will find a rich, soul-nourishing feast within these pages.”
These are eleven new and upcoming books that you might be interested in. Which of them are you excited to read?
