Recommended Titles :

This term, two titles are recommended for our 'summer reading'. The first is 'The Prodigal God' by Tim Keller (author of 'Reason for God' and 'Counterfeit Gods.')

The second is an autobiography, 'Digging Ditches' by Helen Roseveare.

Spring Recommendation :

In Spring 2010, in the run-up to Easter, the choice of title was centred around the resurrection.  'Lifted' is a brand new book by Sam Allberry.  The subtitle is 'Experiencing the resurrection life,' (published by IVP). 

"Very fresh and accessible" - Mark Meynell

Winter 2009 Books of the Quarter :

Title choice for the Winter 2009 book recommendations shared the theme of church history.   The first, by Mark Meynell, helps us to learn about the history of our own All Souls Church - in this brand new full-colour illustrated history (the first of its kind for over 30 years).  To read more, click here.

The Unquenchable Flame - Introducing the Reformation by Michael Reeves

In a very readable format, this book helps us to learn about the Protestant Reformation, a key period in church history.  "Michael Reeves brings the Reformers to life, unpacks their ideas, and shows the profound and personal relevance of Reformation thinking for today." (IVP website)

There is a further personal link to All Souls with the author of this book - as Michael is one of our Mission Partners.

Background to Choice of Titles

Two books are chosen by our full-time staff Ministry Team as the recommended 'Books of the Quarter.'  Copies are made available at our Resources Centre in quantity for purchase by regular members and visitors alike.  Listed below are titles from previous recommendations.

June 2009

To co-incide with the 500th Anniversary this year ... the choice of both titles are studies of the life and ministry of John Calvin.

John Calvin : A Pilgrim's Life by Herman J. Selderhuis :

" .... Herman Selderhuis presents here a fresh new biography based on a careful reading of Calvin's letters and other sources...... A wonderful introduction to a great teacher of the church!"  Timothy George, Dean, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University.

John Calvin and his passion for the majesty of God by John Piper

'The essential meaning of Calvin's life and preaching,' writes John Piper, 'is that he recovered and embodied a passion for the absolute reality and majesty of God.  Such is the aim and burden of this book as well.' 

By telling the story of Calvin's life, Piper aims to ignite your zeal for the centrality, supremacy and majesty of God.

Jan/Feb 2009

The Glory of the Cross by James Philip. 

This booklet is a highly recommended resource during Lent.

"This booklet is for everyone : for those who came to faith in Christ many years ago, and for those who found faith in Him just recently. Lend it to friends; talk about it, but more importantly, let it lead you back into the scriptures - to reflect on the cross and to rejoice in all that Christ's death achieved."

The God I Don't Understand by Chris Wright.

"This hopeful and challenging book begins with some of our hardest questions about God and ends with some of God's greatest promises to us.  It is a gift to all of us who care enough about our faith to question it."  Andy Crouch.

Autumn 2008

Beyond Greed by Brian Rosner. 

"Beyond Greed opens our eyes to the problems, and proposes a liberating lifestyle that trades in greed and materialism for something of far greater worth and satisfaction."

God's New Community : New Testament patterns for today's church by Graham Beynon. 

"A clear, practical and challenging explanation of New Testament teaching about 'church.'"

Summer 2008....

God's Big Picture by Vaughan Roberts.  In this book, the author examines how the Bible fits together as one big picture.

Knowing Jesus through the Old Testament by Chris Wright.  The first in the 'Knowing' trilogy (other titles are Knowing God the Father through the Old Testament and Knowing the Holy Spirit through the Old Testament)

In Autumn 2007, the books chosen were :

'Integrity - Leading with God Watching' by Jonathan Lamb.  The author examines key passages from 2 Corinthians and interweaves them with examples from everyday life.

'The Busy Christian's Guide to Busyness' by Tim Chester. "How to manage your life and not let it manage you"

Some of the previous 'Books of the Quarter' recommendations :

Knowing God by J I Packer
Seeing and Savouring Jesus Christ by John Piper

Relating to Prayer .....

A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D A Carson
Don't Just Stand there, Pray Something by Ron Dunn

Relating to making good life choices in various seasons .....

Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper
Lost in the Middle by Paul Tripp