There are lots of new Christian resources being published these days and, as is so often the case, many of them landed in my mailbox. I spent some time going through them and arrived at a list of the ones I thought might be most interesting to you. Here, then, are this month’s new and notable books (including the editorial description for each).

Gospel People: A Call for Evangelical Integrity by Michael Reeves. “A biblical case for the importance and goodness of being evangelical. The term evangelical is often poorly defined and frequently comes with cultural and political baggage. As the label has become more controversial, many Christians have begun to wonder if they should abandon it altogether. Michael Reeves argues from a global, scriptural, and historical perspective that, while it’s not necessary to discard the label altogether, Christians must return to the root of the term—the evangel, or “gospel”—in order to understand what it truly means. He identifies the theology of evangelicalism and its essential doctrine, calling believers to stand with integrity as people of the gospel.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Bible Doctrine, Second Edition: Essential Teachings of the Christian Faith by Wayne Grudem. “How do we know the Bible is God’s Word? What is sin and where did it come from? How is Jesus fully God and fully man? What are spiritual gifts? When and how will Christ return? If you’ve asked questions like these, then systematic theology is no abstract term. It’s an approach to finding answers every Christian needs to know. The second edition of Bible Doctrine takes a widely used upper-level textbook on systematic theology and makes it accessible. Abridged from the second edition of Wayne Grudem’s award-winning Systematic Theology, Bible Doctrine covers the same essentials of the faith, giving you a firm grasp on seven key topics: The Doctrine of the Word of God, The Doctrine of God, The Doctrine of Man, The Doctrine of Christ, The Doctrine of the Application of Redemption, The Doctrine of the Church, The Doctrine of the Future. You don’t need to have had several years of Bible college or seminary training to reap the benefits of Bible Doctrine. It’s easy to understand and packed with biblical answers to your most pressing theological questions.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Overcoming Apathy: Gospel Hope for Those Who Struggle to Care by Uche Anizor. “For many Christians, apathy can feel inescapable. They experience a lack of motivation and a growing indifference to important things, with some even struggling to care about anything at all. In Overcoming Apathy, theology professor Uche Anizor explains what apathy is and gives practical, biblical advice to break the cycle. Inspired by his conversations with young Christians as well as his own experiences with apathy, Anizor takes a fresh look at this widespread problem and its effect on spiritual maturity. This short book is an excellent resource for those struggling with apathy as well as parents, mentors, and friends who want to support someone in need.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
Calls to Worship, Invocations, and Benedictions by Ryan Kelly. “Highly organized and practical, this resource for worship leaders provides hundreds of calls to worship, invocations, and benedictions and over one hundred optional congregational responses, along with seasonal and topical suggestions for worship planning. Each liturgical element is sourced or adapted directly from the Bible and indexed by topic. Quickly find appropriate passages, and draw on a broader range of Scripture in your worship services. This useful handbook also includes an overview of how churches have historically incorporated these elements into worship, with particular attention paid to early Reformation liturgies. Whether you are new to this pattern of worship or have made it a part of your services for years, you will be helped and encouraged.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
A Biblical Case against Theistic Evolution by Wayne Grudem, General Editor. “Even Christians strongly debate Scripture’s account of creation, with some declaring that major events in the book of Genesis—from the origin of Adam and Eve to God’s curse on the world—were purely symbolic. Several respected scholars endorse this theory, but is it consistent with the Bible’s teaching? In A Biblical Case against Theistic Evolution, condensed and adapted from Theistic Evolution, Wayne Grudem and other leading scholars challenge the belief that Genesis is mostly symbolic, rather than a true, historical narrative.” (Buy it at Amazon)
The God Who Hears: How the Story of the Bible Shapes Our Prayers by Sarah Ivill. “Author Sarah Ivill contends, “As we study prayer through the lens of the unfolding story of Scripture, it will teach us how to pray, but more importantly it will reveal the Covenant God to whom we pray.” And just such an endeavor provides the foundation and motivation necessary to enrich our prayer life. See how Old Testament prayers find their fulfillment and transformation in Christ. Discover boldness and joy in prayer because Christ is the high priest who gives us access to the throne of grace. Moreover, look forward to an eternity in which our prayers will consist of unhindered praise.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
R.C. Sproul: Defender of the Reformed Faith by Nate Pickowicz. “R.C. Sproul: Defender of the Reformed Faith traces the five decades of R.C.’s public ministry, observing a thematic connection to the five solas of the Reformation. While much has already been written, with much more to come, this book takes a unique look at R.C. Sproul as doctrinal defender. In a cultural climate where doctrinal disagreements can easily descend into personal attacks and division, R.C. models the utmost care for doctrinal precision without sacrificing the love and grace needed to be kind to those with whom we disagree. Even after his passing, R.C. still has much to teach us about what it means to contend earnestly for the faith.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)
I also wanted to mention a new series from P&R and Third Millennium Ministries called Christian Essentials. “Produced by Third Millennium Ministries for a global, multilingual, evangelical audience, the books in the Christian Essentials series make highly vetted, master’s-level theology clear, personal, and accessible to a broad spectrum of readers.” The series has begun with three volumes:

Lots of great books and other resources came our way in 2024. Among them were some that were particularly “mega”—that represented an extraordinarily long, big, expansive, or audacious idea, and I wanted to give credit where credit is due. With apologies to any I missed, here is my list of some of the most mega projects of 2024.

The Psalms: A Christ-Centered Commentary (4-Volume Set) by Christopher Ash. Few people are bold enough to write a commentary on the entire book of psalms. Fewer still are bold enough to write a four-volume commentary. Yet Ash came through with a tremendous set that is suitable for general readers and scholars alike. Here is what the publisher says about it: “In this comprehensive, 4-volume commentary, Christopher Ash provides a thorough treatment of all 150 Psalms, examining each psalm’s significance to David and the other psalmists, to Jesus during his earthly ministry, and to the church of Christ in every age. The first volume in the set is a detailed handbook that explains how to interpret the Psalms with Christ at the center. The remaining 3 volumes cover each psalm in depth, with introductory quotations, a deep analysis of the text’s structure and vocabulary, and a closing reflection and response. Ash also includes selected quotations from older readings of the Psalms, including patristic, medieval, Reformation, and post-Reformation scholars. Perfect for pastors, Bible teachers, and students, this commentary set helps readers sing and pray the Psalms with Christ in view.” (Best price at Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Logos)

Missionary: Obeying the Great Commission. Missionary is an original 6-part documentary series created by the missions organization Radius International. Through six episodes it introduces viewers to six Christians who obeyed the Great Commission: William Tyndale, Hudson Taylor, Amy Carmichael, William Carey, David Livingstone, and John Paton. The project was filmed on-location which means the filmmakers traveled to every continent except South America. It features John Piper, Kevin DeYoung, Rosaria Butterfield, Conrad Mbewe, Ian Hamilton, and others. It is currently sold in a box set that includes all six episodes on DVD or Bluray, digital access to stream the films, Leader’s Guide, Handbook, movie poster, and exclusive postcards from the film. It’s ideal for families, small groups, homeschool, and so on. (Currently available exclusively from Missionary.com)

Ask Pastor John: 750 Bible Answers to Life’s Most Important Questions by Tony Reinke. In 2013, Tony Reinke proposed an idea for a new podcast: He would ask questions and John Piper would answer them. Though the podcast was expected to last for only 400 episodes, it has now stretched to thousands. In this book, Reinke collects, categorizes, and adapts the best of 10 years and 2,000 episodes. Though not every book can survive the transition from one medium to another, this one does it well. Here is what the publisher says about it: “In this unique book, Ask Pastor John host Tony Reinke summarizes and organizes ten years of their most insightful and popular episodes into accessible, thematic sections. Readers will be able to quickly and systematically access Piper’s insights on hundreds of topics including Bible reading, dating, social media, mental health, and more. We discover afresh how asking good questions strengthens faith and grows our understanding of God’s word.” (Best price at Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books)

On Classical Trinitarianism: Retrieving the Nicene Doctrine of the Triune God, edited by Matthew Barrett. This massive volume was published in part to celebrate the 1,700 anniversary of the Council of Nicea and received a nod from The Gospel Coalition as their Theological Studies book of the year. The publisher says this of it: “Motivated by the longstanding need to retrieve the classical doctrine of the Trinity, theologian Matthew Barrett brings together Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox scholars to intervene in the conversation. With over forty contributions, this ecumenical volume resurrects the enduring legacy of Nicene orthodoxy, providing a theological introduction that listens with humility to the Great Tradition.” Those who have considered the controversy related to the eternal subordination of the Son will find definitive answers in its pages. Contributors include Fred Sanders Scott Swain, Carl Trueman, and many others. (Best price at Christianbook.com; also available at Amazon, Westminster Books; discounted for pre-order at Logos)

Reformed Systematic Theology by Joel Beeke & Paul Smalley. This four-volume systematic theology, which was completed this year, is nothing short of a magnum opus that spans 5,200 pages. The publisher says, “Theology is not just an academic subject—it is also a spiritual practice. In the 4-volume Reformed Systematic Theology set, authors Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley explore central Scripture themes from biblical, doctrinal, experiential, and practical perspectives. The result is a comprehensive yet accessible systematic theology of the Reformed Christian faith that ministers to the whole person―head, heart, and hands. This series includes 4 volumes: Revelation and God (volume 1); Man and Christ (volume 2); Spirit and Salvation (volume 3); and Church and Last Things (volume 4). Drawing on the historical theology of the Reformed tradition, these books help readers grow in their understanding and application of the truth presented in God’s word.” (Similarly-priced at Amazon, Westminster Books, and Christianbook.com; also currently on sale at Logos)

Systematic Theology, Volume One: From Canon to Concept by Stephen J. Wellum. Though this is only the first volume in a multi-volume set, it is still a substantial accomplishment and one that was decades in the making. The publisher says this about it: “Trinitarian, reformational, and baptistic, Stephen Wellum’s Systematic Theology models a serious evangelical engagement with the Scriptures while being grounded in church history and keenly aware of contemporary issues. Building on decades of research, Wellum formulates doctrine exegetically, covenantally, and canonically for a new generation of students, pastors, church leaders, and seasoned theologians.” If you are interested in the framework of progressive covenantalism it should be of particular interest. (Best price Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Logos)

Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction by Harrison Perkins. Some who don’t love Wellum’s progressive covenantalism may prefer Perkins’ covenant theology. “Covenant shapes our life with God. In Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction, Harrison Perkins shows how Christ and his work are the heart of that covenant relationship. Since God lives in covenant with his redeemed people, covenant theology provides a framework for Christians to grow in their life with God, to read the Bible, and to love the church.” The book promises to help you “see Christ and his work more clearly; learn the biblical basis for the Reformed confessions; and understand the role of grace and works in your salvation.” (Best price Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Logos)

Ruined Sinners to Reclaim: Sin and Depravity in Historical, Biblical, Theological, and Pastoral Perspective, edited by David & Jonathan Gibson. This is the second volume in a 5-part series covering the doctrines of grace. Not only is the series mega, but so is each volume. This one comes in at just over 1,000 pages. The publisher describes it in this way: “Ruined Sinners to Reclaim persuasively reaffirms the doctrine of total depravity from biblical, historical, theological, and pastoral perspectives, drawing on the debates of theologians throughout church history. Edited by David and Jonathan Gibson, this book features contributions from respected theologians―including Michael A. G. Haykin, Gray Sutanto, Garry Williams, Mark Jones, Daniel Strange, and R. Albert Mohler Jr.―to help readers understand the reality of our sinful nature, its debilitating effects, and the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation. This is the second book in the Doctrines of Grace series, which explores the central points of the Canons of Dort, providing a framework for understanding each doctrine in all its historical, biblical, theological, and pastoral richness.” (Best price: Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Logos)

Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology by Kevin DeYoung. This is a fresh idea: dividing systematic theology into daily readings so it can be learned and digested over the course of a year. “Designed to make systematic theology clear and accessible for the everyday Christian, this devotional walks through the most important theology topics over the course of a year. Each month is categorized into broad themes, starting with the study of God and concluding with the end times. Written by bestselling author and associate professor of systematic theology Kevin DeYoung, each concise daily reading contains verses for meditation and application, building upon each other and easing readers into the study of systematic theology.” (Best price: Amazon and Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Logos)

Everyday Gospel: A Daily Devotional Connecting Scripture to All of Life by Paul David Tripp. Everyday Gospel is a daily devotional that leads readers through the Bible in a year. In it, “Paul David Tripp provides a roadmap for readers who want to spend a full year in God’s word. Tripp, author of the bestselling New Morning Mercies, has now written a second daily devotional, offering 365 fresh, engaging entries that follow an annual Bible reading plan from Genesis through Revelation. Brief and practical, these reflections connect the transforming power of Scripture to all you will experience in your everyday Christian life.” (Best price: Christianbook.com; also available at Westminster Books and Amazon)

Finally, here are a couple of bonuses:

Motyer by the Day: A Psalms and Isaiah Devotional Collection by Alec Motyer. This may not be the most mega project of the year, but it’s a good one nonetheless. “Alec Motyer was a man whose love for God and His Word inspired others to enjoy studying the Bible, and especially the Old Testament. Isaiah by the Day and Psalms by the Day exemplify this passion. Motyer’s scholarly brilliance and devotional warmth have cemented these books as firm favorites in the hearts of many readers. This beautiful cloth-bound box set contains both volumes from this esteemed Bible teacher. Moyter is a master at attending to the details and finding their precise place in the grand sweep of scripture’s redemptive narrative. Rich and full, yet concisely put.” (Best price: Westminster Books; also available from Amazon)

A New Era of Logos Bible Software. This year saw the release of the new edition of Logos Bible Software and its inevitable change from a purchase model to a subscription model. Beyond that change there were many other upgrades to the software. And, of course, Logos continued to extend its library. In my perspective, the software is now better than ever. (Learn more or enjoy a free trial at Logos.com)

This week’s giveaway is sponsored by Reformation Heritage Books.

Glorifying and Enjoying God (written by William Boekestein, Jonathan L. Cruse, and Andrew J. Miller) is a new devotional on the Westminster Shorter Catechism. These fifty-two short lessons teach us how reformed theology affects our daily lives. Click here to listen to a series of podcasts with the authors on the major themes of the WSC.
Enter the giveaway below for your opportunity to win one of five copies of Glorifying and Enjoying God.
To Enter
Giveaway Rules: You may enter one time. When you enter, you agree to be placed on Reformation Heritage Books’ email list. The winners will be notified by email. The giveaway closes on December 17, 2023.