What a wonderful Fall we’ve had experiencing the “Being a Disciple Series” led by Pastor Blake. We hope that you have been challenged to embrace the fullness of what it means to be a “follower” not just a “fan.” And we trust that you have made a decision to be even more fully committed to the Lordship of Jesus.
If this series has created a deeper hunger in you to know more about Discipleship, here is a list of my Top Ten Books on Discipleship.
1. The Cost of Discipleship – Dietrich Bonhoeffer
This is a classic written by a modern day martyr killed in a Nazi concentration camp. He masterfully describes the church’s bent toward “cheap grace,” and the Biblical cost involved in following Jesus.
2. The Lost Art of Disciple Making – Leroy Eims
“True growth takes time and tears and love and patience,” Eims writes. He makes it clear that there is no instant maturity. This book gives details about how the early church raised up leaders and practical insight that can be effective today.
3. Multiply – Francis Chan
Two words: FRANCIS CHAN! You can’t find an author who writes with more clarity and conviction. You will experience joy as you read…and your heart may be changed.
4. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction – Eugene Peterson
We have a culture fixated on a quick fix. With a masterful understanding of the “Songs of Ascent” in the book of Psalms, Peterson gives us a timeless understanding necessary to become a patient pilgrim following Christ.
5. Spiritual Leadership – J. Oswald Sanders
This book has been sold to over a million followers of Jesus. It is a must read on many Christian leader’s lists. Sanders uses Biblical examples to present relevant truths for those who want to make a difference in Christ’s Kingdom.
6. Forgotten Ways – Alan Hirsch
This is easily one of the most important books that I have read in the last 10 years. If you want to be a part of high-impact, exponentially explosive, spiritually vibrant Jesus movement, this book is for you!
7. Celebration of Discipline – Richard J. Foster
This book is hailed by many as the best modern book on Christian spirituality. Foster brings to life the “classic disciplines” of the faith and makes them accessible for today.
8. DiscipleShift: Five Steps That Help Your Church to Make Disciples Who Make
Disciples – Jim Putman, Bobby Harrington and Robert Coleman
This book takes you through five key “shifts” that people must make in the church to refocus on what the core mission of the church is.
9. The Master Plan for Evangelism – Robert Coleman
For the last 40 years, this book has been a catalyst for spiritual growth and kingdom multiplication. It has sold nearly 4 million copies. I was blessed to know Dr. Robert Coleman and have witnessed his heart to see people know Christ.
10. The Divine Conquest – A.W. Tozer
Here’s the bottom line…there can’t be effective discipleship that isn’t directed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This book is my go-to book on what it means to live a spirit-filled life.