Here’s a rundown of the 8 books I read in May. This brings my 2022 total to 38 books. Happy reading!

(I must always clarify that I read many books with which I disagree. I learn the most by reading things that do not represent my position.)

Too Great a Temptation: The Seductive Power of America’s Super Church by Joel Gregory

I’ve read this book no less than 10 times. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a certain era of evangelical life and the temptations that seek to trip up those serving the church.

Religious Liberty in Crisis: Exercising Your Faith in an Age of Uncertainty by Ken Starr

Ken Starr is a polarizing figure but this is a tremendous look at the landmark lawsuits and statutes that have addressed the constitutional right of religious liberty. A case well made.

What Happened to the Southern Baptist Convention?: A Memoir of the Controversy by Grady Cothen

Another book that I’ve read a handful of times. I picked this book up in light of the recent sexual abuse scandal in the SBC. The question still rages, “What Happened to the Southern Baptist Convention?”

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years 1899-1939 by Iain Murray

A thorough examination of the early ministry of Lloyd-Jones by someone who knew him well. It would be hard to find a more well-research, technical, yet readable, biography. Lloyd-Jones is the gold standard for pastoral/preaching ministry. I’m onto volume two.

God Works All Things Together for Your Good: Living in the Promise of Romans 8:28 by Robert Morgan

This was my second time reading this one. It’s a helpful ground level look at Romans 8:28. I reread it in preparation to teach this passage. The strength of this book is the illustrative material. I’ve read two books that I first encountered as references here.

Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage  by Gavin Ortlund

This book will find its way on to my year end list of favorites. It is a great call for theological precision and Spirit-filled unity (my wording). When do we divide? What do we divide over? Ortlund provides a basic framework for thinking through the things that matter most.

Surprised by Jesus: Subversive Grace in the Four Gospels by Dane Ortlund

A slow walk through the four gospels. It is filled with astute observations on the life and ministry of Jesus. A tremendous resource. I will return to it often.

The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson

I discovered Larson earlier this year. I’m working slowly through all of his work. His writing is crisp, clear, and engaging. I turned pages on this one as if it was a summer beach read. This volume will also lead me down a rabbit hole of Winston Churchill books.