5 Books to Read In 2025
Here are 5 books I read last year that I think you might like as well.
#1 - Leadership and Emotional Sabotage - Joe Rigney
This book belongs in the “must read” category for every Christian. Filtering insights from Edwin Friedman, William Shakespeare, and C.S. Lewis, Joe Rigney very incisively cuts through much of the confusion and emotions of our day and helps us to see and live with biblical clarity and courage. While the book was primarily written for leaders, it has broad applicability for everyone.
#2 - How to Read a Book: Advice for Christian Readers - Andy Naselli
At the risk of overkill, I would also put this book in the “must read” category as well. You might be thinking, “Why should I read a book about reading books? That seems counterintuitive.” But don’t think that. This book is just dripping with wisdom and insights that will help you not only become a better reader and thinker, but also a better Christian. Naselli knows books, and he knows how to guide you to become a better student of words, and especially God’s Word. Don’t miss out on this book.
#3 - Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds - Chris Brauns
What is forgiveness and how do we know if we are rightly practicing it? Is there a difference between punishment and discipline? Does forgiveness eliminate consequences? In this book, Chris Brauns walks through the mechanics of biblical forgiveness and helps Christians to navigate what forgiveness looks like in different real world situations. If you are new to the topic of conditional forgiveness, Braun will help you to understand what that is and why it is important.
#4 - Out of the Ashes: Rebuilding American Culture - Anthony Esolen
Anthony Esolen is one of my favorite writers. With refreshing wit and engaging prose, he knows how to tap into the longings we all feel for truth, goodness, and beauty. While published in 2017, which almost feels like a different world from now, this book illustrates timeless principles that help us to answer the question, “Where do we go from here?” Some have referred to Out of the Ashes as the more positive foil to Rod Dreher’s The Benedict Option, and while dated in some respects, it is still timely and relevant.
#5 - God’s Battalions: The Case for the Crusades - Rodney Stark
Many modern people view the Crusades as an unforgivable blight in the Church’s history that Christians ought to be entirely ashamed of. However, historian Rodney Stark paints a different and more modest picture. His thesis is that the Crusades were largely a justified response to Muslim terror, aggression, and conquest in the Mediterranean world. Like all history, there were bad actors and unjustified behaviors included as well, but on the whole the Crusades weren’t near as bad as you’ve been told. A fascinating, enjoyable, and well-researched book.
Honorable Mention:
Predestination: An Introduction - Andy Naselli
Creation in Six Days: A Defense of the Traditional Reading of Genesis One - James B. Jordan
The Church-Friendly Family - Randy Booth & Rich Lusk
Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren’t Growing Up - Abigail Shrier
Return of the Dragon: The Shocking Way Drugs and Religion Shape People and Societies - Lewis Ungit