Recommended Counselee Reading List
"Gospel Treason: Betraying the Gospel with Hidden Idols" by Brad Bigney
The book explores the concept of idolatry and how it can subtly infiltrate our lives as Christians, leading to a betrayal of the true Gospel message.
The central theme of "Gospel Treason" is to help us identify and address the hidden idols that can distract us from a genuine relationship with God. Bigney argues that idolatry is not just a historical issue but a present-day struggle for us as Christians. He draws from biblical insights and personal experiences to illustrate how idols can take root in various aspects of our lives, such as relationships, material possessions, success, or even religious practices.
Through engaging storytelling and biblical teaching, Bigney offers us practical steps to confront and dethrone these idols, rediscovering the richness of the true Gospel and experiencing a more intimate relationship with Christ. By exposing the deceptive nature of idols and the damaging effects they have on our faith, the book encourages us to return to the foundational truths of the Gospel and surrender our hearts fully to Christ.
Click here for the “Gospel Treason—Study Guide”
"Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts" by Jerry Bridges
In this book, Jerry Bridges helps us delve into the challenging topic of trusting God in the midst of difficult and painful circumstances that often arise in our lives.
The central message of "Trusting God" revolves around the sovereignty and goodness of God. Jerry Bridges encourages us to place our faith in God's character and promises, even when we face trials, suffering, or unanswered prayers. He addresses common questions and doubts that we may have about God's involvement in our affairs and seeks to provide biblical answers and reassurance.
Throughout the book, Jerry Bridges draws from various passages of Scripture to emphasize the importance of trusting God's wisdom and plan, even when it may not align with our desires or understanding. He highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, His infinite wisdom in orchestrating events, and His unfailing love for us, His children.
The book is divided into three main sections, each dealing with a different aspect of trusting God:
God's Sovereignty: Jerry Bridges helps us explore the concept of God's sovereignty over all things, including both the good and difficult circumstances in our lives. He discusses how recognizing God's absolute control can bring comfort and peace, even when we face trials.
God's Wisdom: This section focuses on God's infinite wisdom and how He works all things together for our good. Jerry Bridges addresses the struggle of understanding God's ways and encourages us to trust in His greater knowledge and purpose.
God's Love: The final part of the book emphasizes God's love and care for us. Jerry Bridges encourages us to rely on God's love, even in times of pain and suffering, knowing that He is with us and provides strength and grace to endure.
"A Gospel Primer for Christians: Learning to See the Glories of God's Love" by Milton Vincent
The book serves as a devotional guide and a practical resource for Christians to grasp the depth and significance of the Gospel in their daily lives.
The central theme of "A Gospel Primer" revolves around the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Milton Vincent emphasizes that the Gospel is not just the message that brings us into a relationship with God at the beginning of our Christian journey, but it is also the message that sustains us and transforms us throughout our entire walk with Christ.
The book is structured into four parts:
The Gospel Defines Us: This section focuses on how the Gospel defines our identity as Christians. It highlights the foundational truths of God's love, grace, and mercy toward us through Jesus Christ.
The Gospel Transforms Us: The second part explores how the Gospel has the power to change our hearts and lives. It delves into the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in conforming us to the image of Christ.
The Gospel Deepens Our Communion with God: This section emphasizes how the Gospel strengthens our relationship with God and helps us to experience His presence more intimately.
The Gospel Enables Our Faithfulness: The final part of the book emphasizes how understanding and embracing the Gospel enables us to live a life of obedience and faithful service to God.
Throughout "A Gospel Primer," Milton Vincent uses Scripture, personal anecdotes, and practical examples to illustrate the profound impact of the Gospel on all aspects of a believer's life. The book is designed to be read reflectively, with each chapter providing opportunities for meditation, prayer, and further exploration of the Gospel's implications.
"Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament" by Mark Vroegop
The book addresses the essential but often overlooked biblical practice of lament—expressing grief, sorrow, and anguish before God in the midst of suffering, pain, and adversity.
The central theme of "Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" is to help readers understand the biblical perspective on lament and how it can be a pathway to experiencing God's deep and transformative mercy in times of darkness. Vroegop draws from various passages in the Bible, particularly the book of Psalms, to illustrate the importance of engaging with God honestly and transparently in our moments of deepest pain and sorrow.
The book is structured around three key sections:
Understanding Lament: In this section, Vroegop lays the foundation by explaining what lament is and how it differs from complaining or grumbling. He examines biblical examples of lament, such as in the lives of Job, David, and Jeremiah, to show how God invites His people to bring their raw emotions and questions before Him.
Learning to Lament: The second part of the book provides practical guidance on how to lament in our personal lives and in our communities. Vroegop shares insights on the various elements of a lament, including turning to God in trust, expressing pain and sorrow, asking for help, and choosing to praise and worship God even amidst the darkness.
Living with Lament: The final section of the book addresses the transformative power of lament in the life of a believer. Vroegop shows how lament can lead to a deeper understanding of God's character, a more authentic relationship with Him, and a greater sense of hope and trust in His purposes, even when we can't see the full picture.
"Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" does not avoid the reality of pain and suffering but rather embraces it as part of the human experience. It provides comfort and encouragement to those going through difficult times and offers a fresh perspective on how God meets His people in the midst of their darkest moments.
"Anxious for Nothing: God's Cure for the Cares of Your Soul" by John MacArthur
This book addresses the prevalent issue of anxiety and provides biblical insights and practical guidance for finding peace and tranquility in the midst of life's challenges.
The central theme of "Anxious for Nothing" is to help readers understand God's perspective on anxiety and how to apply biblical principles to overcome it. John MacArthur draws from Scripture, particularly the teachings of Jesus, to reveal God's cure for anxious hearts.
The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of dealing with anxiety:
The Anxiety Epidemic: MacArthur begins by acknowledging the widespread problem of anxiety and its impact on people's lives.
The Source of Peace: This section emphasizes the importance of understanding God's sovereignty and care as the foundation of peace.
The Power of Prayer: MacArthur teaches on the significance of prayer in finding peace and trusting God with our worries.
Overcoming Worry: This chapter explores how to overcome worry by focusing on God's promises and the eternal perspective.
The Peace of Contentment: MacArthur discusses the contentment that comes from trusting in God's provision and sufficiency.
The Peace of Integrity: This section addresses the peace that comes from living a life of honesty and integrity before God.
The Peace of Humility: MacArthur highlights the importance of humility and submission to God in finding peace.
The Peace of Faith: This chapter emphasizes the role of faith in overcoming anxiety and trusting in God's plan.
The Peace of a Balanced Mind: MacArthur explores the role of meditating on God's Word and focusing on the right things.
The Peace of a Fruitful Life: The final chapter discusses the peace that comes from living a life that bears spiritual fruit.
Throughout "Anxious for Nothing," John MacArthur provides practical advice and biblical wisdom to help readers confront their anxieties with faith and trust in God. He emphasizes the importance of applying God's Word and relying on His promises to experience true peace.
"Putting Your Past in Its Place: Moving Forward in Freedom and Forgiveness" by Steve Viars
The book offers practical guidance for individuals who struggle with the weight of their past mistakes, regrets, and painful experiences.
The central theme of "Putting Your Past in Its Place" is to help readers find healing and freedom from the burdens of their past through biblical principles and the grace of God. Steve Viars emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing past hurts, traumas, and sins while also learning to let go and move forward in forgiveness and restoration.
The book addresses various issues that may plague individuals from their past, such as unresolved conflicts, bitterness, guilt, shame, and the effects of abuse. Viars offers sound biblical counsel on how to deal with these issues in a healthy and God-honoring way.
Throughout the book, Steve Viars draws from Scripture, personal experiences, and his years of counseling to provide practical steps and principles for finding healing and freedom. He shows readers how to rely on God's grace and the power of His Word to overcome the negative effects of the past and to find hope and purpose in the present and future.
The book is structured in a way that allows readers to work through the content in a progressive manner, making it useful for both individual study and group discussions. It includes reflection questions, practical exercises, and application points to help readers engage with the material and apply it to their lives.
"Putting Your Past in Its Place: Moving Forward in Freedom and Forgiveness" has been well-received for its compassionate and biblically sound approach to dealing with the complexities of the past. It offers hope to those who are struggling with the weight of their history and points them towards God's transformative grace and healing power. Please note that there might have been updates or new editions released after September 2021, so for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is best to refer to the latest version of the book or consult more recent sources.
There are many more book recommendations at the end of the various topics in this resource.
