Ministries of MercyTimothy KellerThis is a challenging book which shows our Christian duty or responsibility is to work hard so that we have the resources to use in helping those less fortunate than ourselves. Keller argues that we receive God's gifts so they can be used to the benefit of humanity and so we should freely give our time and resources in compassionate Christian service. He shows how this can be done individually and corporately in a church setting, and challenges us to serve God, the Church, and humanity better in acts of kindness and mercy.
Surprise the WorldMichael FrostBring the missional mindset to life where you are right now. In 'Surprise the World', Michael Frost equips us to share the gospel in a way that is natural and effective as we engage with people, share our lives with others, and seek to share the gospel with those around us.
Living His Story TogetherHannah SteeleThe follow on to the popular 'Living His Story', 'Living His Story Together' looks at what it means to be an outward looking Church exploring what mission and evangelism look like today with Scripture and theological insight.
Operation World (7th Edition)Jason MandrykOperation World will open your eyes to the challenges faced by the global church. Packed full of data and information let this resource help guide you as you pray for the persecuted church. It is also a helpful resource for church intercessions - helping you to look outward, with informed prayer points.
Soul ObsessionNicky CruzNicky Cruz known for 'Run Baby Run' shares his own backstory and those who've shaped his faith in this inspiring read that'll spark a passion within you to send you out to share the Good News.
What Is The Mission Of The ChurchGreg Gilbert; Kevin DeYoungIn this book, DeYoung & Gilbert identify the central mission of the Church as the 'Great Commission' found in Matthew 28. Their concern is to reduce the definition of 'mission' to the main purpose of the Church which is to go into the nations and spread the gospel. They argue that the modern focus on social action as a key component of Mission is distracting the Church from its primary focus and that re-defining terminology will help create a consensus going forward. The authors want to see social action taking place but in its place and not at the expense of eternal alleviation of suffering. This is an excellent read.
Let the Nations Be Glad!: The Supremacy of God in MissionsPiper John'Let the Nations Be Glad' is John's Piper's influencial introduction to the theme of Global Missions. He argues that the Church has a message of hope and joy with which it is charged to take into every corner of the world. This missional activity comes from our worship of God and a desire for others to know the reality of this. If you're discerning a call to missions or just trying to gain a deeper understanding of the subject, this is a key title.
No Shortcut to SuccessMatt RhodesThis is a superb primer on the subject of Missions. Rhodes devotes the first few chapters on highlighting the weaknesses of the shortcut mentality of poor preparation and a lack of training and what this has led to on the mission field. He then positively proposes an alternative course which is more aligned to the pioneering missionaries of the past. If you're hoping to take shortcuts and skimp on preparation, this isn't the book for you! But if you're serious about missions and are seeking a more robust approach, read on with Matt Rhodes!
Mission AffirmedElliot ClarkThis is an excellent book which advocates what Clark believes to be the kind of missionary activity which is pleasing to God and honours him. He uses the Pauline example of not focusing on results but on gaining God's affirmation as those on the mission field labour in the strength of the Holy Spirit, relying on his provision in all situations and circumstances.
Mission of GodChristopher J. H. WrightThis is the second edition of Wright's Magnum Opus on God's Mission. Wright roots world missions to what God has been doing since time began which is evident in the narrative of the whole Bible. He shows how when we do missions we're stepping into this long-established story, playing our part in its ongoing progression, and fulfiling our purpose as God's people. Although academic and 640 pages long, this isn't a technical read and not difficult to follow - highly recommended.
Generous JusticeTimothy KellerRenowned pastor-theologian Timothy Keller explores how the Bible advocates for the poor and calls us to be their defenders, and seek justice for the poor, marginalised, and oppressed. Keller shows how the poor are particularly vulnerable and how Scripture references to justice for the poor outnumber the rich by 100/1. Keller calls us to a gracious approach to this as we promote peace, enable human flourishing, give and act generously, and show an authentic faith through our actions. Challenging and profound!
Lifebuilder Bible Study: Loving JusticeBob HunterWant to study the subject of Justice in your next small group? These 12 sessions will equip you to do just that with professors Bob and Carol Hunter, experts of history and multiculturalism and justice.
Come for RefugePete WilcoxPete Wilcox, Bishop of Sheffield, brings the book of Ruth into vivid conversation with contemporary migrant stories, offering a hopeful and timely biblical vision of what migration can contribute to our world.
We Need To Talk About RaceBen LindsayIn this book about race, Lindsay explores how the Church hasn't always contributed positively to race relations. He encourages the Church in the UK to think about how she might embrace diversity and become a genuinely inclusive and multi-cultural community.
Called to CareJo KnightIf you're interested in creation care and justice from an environmental perspective then 'Called to Care' will further your passion to love the world and make a difference in any small way that you can.
The Hopeful ActivistRichard Gower; Rachel WalkerA practical guide for empowering your inner activist to be a changer bringer wherever God has placed you.
Ordinary MiraclesChris LaneChris Lane's testimony of church planting into a deprived estate in Salford is full of amazing stories of God working in the hardest places. If you're exploring church planting or looking to minister in an urban setting this will provide you with much encouragement & food for thought.
The Irresistible RevolutionShane ClaiborneA challenging read on living a radical Jesus life through his own stories and testimonies of the communities he's been a part of. Not a new book but certainly an inspiring testimony even if your day-to-day looks very different.
Clothed with StrengthSarah AllenThis is a powerful account of how four Christian women from the 18th and 19th centuries fought injustice and changed the course of history. Protten was a former slave who arguably became the mother of modern missions, More was a playwright & poet who became an activist against slavery, Raynard was a pioneering social worker, and Butler was a suffragette who campaigned against child prostitution and human trafficking. They come together in this book to show us what God has done through the lives of these women who worked with others for the greater good and to eleviate human pain and suffering, which inspires us to see what can happen today when we have the same courage!
Good News to the PoorTim ChesterIn this book Tim Chester shows us how the gospel and social action are not mutually exclusive, and in fact the latter serves the former. Chester shows how social action isn't something evangelicals should shy away from but actively promote saying that social action provides a context and environment for the proclamation of the gospel. To that end, argues Ash, we should always be seeking more ways to serve society and challenge our political leaders to exercise power in a godly way. This is a must-read for anyone considering this topic!
Generous with a Capital GWendy PawseyA Big Church Read. Wendy Pawson wants to help Christians understand the importance of generosity and the impact that it can have on those around them and their communities. Includes 50+ testimonies from across the wider Church that offer encouragement and inspiration.
Generosity PracticeJohn Mark ComerThis 4 part Bible study from John Mark Comer and the Practicing the Way ministry unpacks the topic in an accessible and discussion provoking way.
A Call to ActMartin CharlesworthA practical tool for individual, churches, and small groups to get to grips with poverty and need, ideal for challenging yourself and congregations to bring change, hope and justice.
Giving Is the Good LifeRandy AlcornAuthor of bestseller 'Heaven' shares life-changing biblical principles of generosity alongside inspiring testimonies to encourage you to be more generous not just with your money but in all aspects of life.
Money and the GospelChris WrightThis booklet came from the Lausanne Conference in which John Stott gave an address on the subject of stewardship. Stott gives 10 guiding principles for using our finances well and shows how this should reflect God's kindness toward us (both materially and in his Son), and how we should respond generously with thankful hearts.
Counterfeit GodsTimothy KellerIn this book Timothy Keller looks at the various 'gods' which compete for our attention and, ultimately, our worship, whether we realise that or not. He exposes the false and empty promises of money, sex, and power to show us that it's only the living God who can satisfy our deepest needs and longings. Keller shows us how to focus less on selfish desires but use all the good things God gives us generously for the betterment of everyone.
Redeeming MoneyPaul DavidThis book challenges the popular worldview that money will provide us with peace, security, comfort, and ultimately happiness. Only God can provide these things. Tripp shows us how we can live in such a way that we are free from financial worry and find joy in using our money in God's service. Whether you have a little or a lot, this is the perfect book for anyone seeking to manage their finances in a biblical way.
Gospel PatronsJohn RinehartJohn Rinehart explores the lives of key Christian men and women in history who used their considerable resources to support the work of the Church. It's a clarion call to Christians today to emulate these figures and give generously according to the blessings they have received.
The Generosity ProjectTony Payne|Geoff RobsonOver a six-week programme, this book teaches us that because God is generous and loves us, we should respond in love and generosity and this should be reflected in the giving of our time, money, and talents to his glory. The book can be used individually or in a discussion group, and is a really helpful introduction to the biblical concept of generosity.
Rich Christians in an Age of HungerRonald J. SiderWith more than half a million copies sold, Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger was when first published, and still is, a landmark book presenting a powerful case for Church intervention in the global crisis of starvation. This is essential reading for those exploring the interface between the gospel and social action and provides much food for thought for how the Church may respond to global crises and the ongoing humanitarian issues of the day.
What Is a Healthy Church Member?AnyabwileA companion to What Is a Healthy Church?, this short book switches the focus from the responsibilities of a church to the responsibilities of the church member. Thabiti argues that every member of a church should be active for it to flourish and shows us how good this is for us both individually and corporately.
Love Your ChurchTony MeridaHelping you to see the value of really getting in stuck in a church, why it's important not from a 'works' perspective but being a part of the community and the joy that brings.
ServeSteve RobinsonLooking at the example of Jesus, Liverpool pastor Steve Robinson digs into the importance and joy of serving in the church. Ideal if your feeling stuck, weary and unmotivated. It's also got small group resources available so you can go through the book in a Bible study setting.
BelongBarnabas PiperIn six chapters Piper sets out a manifesto for what church when we take our place in it. He shows readers that we do belong, what this means, what it actually looks like in reality, how it happens, and how to keep Christ central in our thoughts and actions. This is a shorter but really helpful book.
Who Needs the Church?Terry L. JohnsonOften we come to the subject of the local church from the perspective of what we can get from church attendance and often choose which church to attend on the same basis. In this book Terry Johnson introduces the importance of the local church in the light of what he calls a "collapsing ecclesiology", how the Bible views the church, the blessings found in the church, and how we can belong there. Johnson argues for the central role the local church should have in the life of every believer.
A Fellowship of DifferentsScot McKnightThis book focuses on how we come together to form tightly-knit communities which are united in and shaped by Christ, how they should reflect diversity, and how we can present this to a watching world. He shows us how church participation is more than going to a church service but involves investing all our resources in the effort of bringing together our differences and celebrating them as we live together corporately.
The Compelling CommunityJamie DunlopIn 'The Compellign Community' Mark Dever sets out a vision for church community arguing that it is a gift from God which is for our good and the good of the world. He explores its depth and breadth, shows how a greater sense of community can be fostered and protected, and how evangelism can have a huge impact when we move out together in sharing the gospel.
Life TogetherDietrich Bonhoeffer; Samuel WellsWritten in 1938 by Lutheran minister, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this classic is as relevant today as it was in Nazi Germany. It focuses on the theme of Christian community and how harmonious living is possible for churches. He sets out a compelling case for unity in Christ and shows how this may be achieved and what we can do to form lasting communities through mutual affection toward each other and Christ. This is essential reading if you're thinking about service, community, and the local church. [For a biography of Bonhoeffer, try 'Bonhoeffer' by Eric Metaxas.]
The Book Your Pastor Wishes You Would ReadChristopher AshThis is a book which encourages us to care better for our pastors. Ash says that ministry is often a tough, there are encouragements but also discouragements along the way, and we can provide both by how we act. His main thrust is that if we are to experience a joyful and cared-for church, we need a joyful and cared-for pastor. He argues that we need to know our pastors and care for them in order to help them in their unique and difficult task.
Operation World (7th Edition)Jason MandrykThis global handbook is a great resource for equipped you to pray for the global Church including maps, information, challenges for prayer and much more.
Justice Song – The Story of Christian Aid: Foreword by Gordon BrownMichael Taylor;Gordon BrownWant to learn the story behind Christian Aid - founded back in 1945 this household name still continues to be a huge force for good and includes testimonies from those who have been involved and impacted by the organisation.
UnfinishedRichard StearnsPresident of World Vision for 20 years Richard Stearns shares his heart for the sharing the Gospel and our resources with those who need them most.
Ships of MercyDon StephensWant to learn more about the global charity Mercy Ships? Don Stephens shares the testimonies of these life-saving hospital ships that serving the most impoverished communities around the globe and how his extraordinary vision as a teenager came to fruition.
God's World to WinPatrick JohnstoneTelling the inspiring story of how Operation World came to be, now going for over 50 years and how it's helped to equip the nations to pray for our world. This book combines both his life story and the founding story of Operation World.
George Muller: Delighted in GodRogerThis is a re-jacket of a classic biography of George Muller. It's an inspiring biography for anyone who wants to learn about the life of the man credited with caring for over 10,000 orphans in Bristol during the 19th century. Known for his unique reliance on prayer for fundraising, this biography shows what faithful reliance on God through prayer can achieve, and how God provides the necessary resources for his kingdom work. Highly recommended.
Around the World with 80 MissionariesLinda FinlaysonThis is the third book in this series and we love it! It introduces the subject of Mission to younger readers, showing the history of foreign mission through the lives of 80 famous pioneering missionaries who, under God, have had a profound affect on every continent of the world. In an engaging, vibrant style, Linda Finlayson shows us how God's mission is global, expansive, and how he uses Christians who serve him with obedience and courage.
Relentless PursuitBen CooleyBen Cooley shares the origin story of his charity Hope For Justice - tackling modern slavery around the world as well as learnings from international leaders, this book is a mash up of testimony and finding your purpose to make a difference for The Kingdom.
How Can I Support International Missions?Collins, MarkThis short book provides the reader with a case for supporting the work of foreign missions through the local church. Collins shows how we can work to promote local evangelistic efforts while maintaining a healthy interest in works further afield, reading about mission, and helping the local church resource and support foreign mission in a variety of ways including prayerfully and financially. Writtenin a brief, easy-to-read style, this is a helpful book for anyone considering how to support International Mission.
Charity And Its FruitsJonathan EdwardsWritten by one of America's greatest ever thinkers and theologians, 'Charity And Its Fruits' is one of Edwards' best-known works. This is an extensive treatment of the nature and effects of Christian charity and love, but rather than discussing it as an abstract theological concept, Edwards shows us how they should be practised and experienced in the Christian life, and the good which flows from living it out, for givers and receivers alike. If you're looking for a book which discusses these themes in depth, look no further!
How to Talk about Jesus without Looking like an IdiotAndy BannisterNot shying away from the challenge, this warm and accessible book from Andy Bannister will give you pointers and tips on engaging friends in conversation without the awkwardness.
Out of the Saltshaker and into the WorldRebecca PippertEncouragement to share your faith from someone who's been working in the field so to speak for decades. Rebecca Manley Pippert is honest and shares her own personal stories both good and not so good to give you confidence you don't need to be perfect to speak for Jesus.
Fruitfulness on the Frontline (10th Anniversary Updated edition)Mark GreeneUsing where God has put you to show love to those around you. Practical and full of testimonies last year this saw a 10 year anniversary update release. Not specific to sharing your faith but more how you live out your faith on a day to day basis.
Surprise the WorldMichael FrostFrost unpacks evangelism using a BELLS to simplify and make evangelism more a way of life than specific activity. Bless, Eat, Listen, Learn and Sent.
How to Talk about Jesus (Without Being That Guy)Sam ChanSam Chan shows how outreach and evangelism can be done in casual conversations with friends and acquaintances in an approachable and witty way.
The Gospel and Personal Evangelism (Redesign)Dever, Mark; Mahaney, C. J.Mark Dever starts by looking at some issues which prevent us from evangelism, provides compelling reasons for why we should, shows what evangelism is and isn't, as well as who and how we should evangelise. He then shows us what we should do following evangelism. I found the section on preparing for evangelism particularly helpful because, if we're not intentionally seeking opportunities, they usually won't come our way. This is probably the best book I've read on the subject - highly recommended!
What If I'm Discouraged in My Evangelism?Adams, Isaac; Emadi, SamIf you're struggling with discouragement or motivation in the area of personal evangelism, this short but helpful book is for you! Adams' encouraging book shows how we can testify more joyfully, and as a result more fruitfully, when we spend time considering God's goodness to us and the blessings we receive from his hands. With this outlook, we can all overcome the obstacles we face in personal evangelism, and get back to sharing the gospel.
Honest EvangelismRico TiceIn 'Honest Evangelism', the founder of Christianity Explored Ministries, looks at evangelism from a fresh perspective. Rico Tice knows the reality of personal evangelism and shows us how we can push through our reservations, inadequacies, and challenges to faithfully present Jesus even when we find difficult. Tice provides reassurance and motivation to start (or re-start) our evangelism as well as things to remember to say. He also shows us that God wants us to be honest, authentic, and ourselves, as we engage in personal evangelism.
Questioning Evangelism, Third Edition: Engaging People's Hearts the Way Jesus DidNewman RandyIn this excellent book, Randy Newman encourages us to look at Personal Evangelism through the lens of the life of Jesus. We're sometimes told not to answer a question with another question, however Jesus didn't always heed this advice! Newman explores the role of thoughtful, penetrating questions when trying to engage others in meaningful conversations about faith. Often overlooked as an evangelistic technique, questions can expose poorly constructed arguements, force people to really think for themselves, and open up the subject in ways monologues can't! Essential reading for anyone thinking through this subject.
Teach a Man to FishFlorence MuindiThis book looks at the effects and challenges of the Church's approach to mission and how empowerment and a wholistic approach to mission is far better and sustainable.
The Path to Being a MissionaryBennettHelping readers think through whether this is the path for them - practical guidance and questions are asked of the reader, it will help kick-start a process of Godly, Spirit-led discernment.
ServeSteve RobinsonLiverpool pastor Steve Robinson digs into the topic of service, the importance of getting stuck in and the whys behind it, whether you're a weary server lacking in enthusiasm or new to a church community.
VolunteeringJill FoxIf you want to read a book that is specifically about Christian volunteering and serving “in the Body of Christ.”, then this is the short and accessible one for you. Without being overly academic, it is both practical and spiritually grounded, and great for good for new volunteers. It is certainly far from just 'church management theory', as it tries to connect the heart of Christian service with the realities of volunteering in church life. This book will show you how to serve with the right heart and attitude, avoid burnout, and how to effectively encourage others into service as well. Unlike other books about volunteering that focus heavily on how to recruit people to serve, this one is more interested in helping Christians serve effectively and joyfully. An ideal book for church volunteers, ministry leaders, or anyone wanting to live out their faith actively.
The Service PracticeJohn Mark ComerNot just for those looking to go into ministry/ mission but for every believer to explore the topic of service in this 4 session study from John Mark Comer's Practicing the Way ministry. Looking to the example of Jesus to see what it means to truly serve and how that can impact your day to day as well as serving within your church setting.
Short-Term Missions WorkbookDearbornThis is a 10-week course on short-term missions which will help the reader as prepare for Christian work abroad. Guidance is given on forming solid relationships with team members, on contextualisation issues, how to understand and adapt to a different culture, how to avoid a tourist metality, and how to have a lasting impact. For use individually or in a group setting, this is the book to read before you go!
Boldly Bi-VocationalJames M. PowellWritten by a minister who stepped back from a full-time pastoral position to bi-vocational ministry in obedience to God's call on his life to bi-vocational ministry. He uses the example of Paul to explore the biblical basis of bi-vocational ministry and shows how this can be a great strategic model which in many cases helps reach more people than a more conventional full-time ministry model. If you're interested in exploring a dual career in the marketplace and the Church, this is a great place to start!
FINALKandiahThe companion to 'Fresh', this short book is written for final year University students who are thinking through their future careers. It focuses on finishing University well and preparing for what lies ahead. Kandiah writes in his usual engaging style and offers a lot of great practical advice for students. This is an excellent resource!
Called?Michael A. MiltonWritten for those working through a sense of calling to pastoral ministry, this book provides wise counsel in how to assess that calling and what to do next. Milton draws on vast ministry experience and helpfully guides the reader through this period of discernment and decision-making into the first years of ministry.
Every Good EndeavourTimothy KellerIn 'Every Good Endeavour', the most influential pastor-theologian of the past 50 years looks at the subject of vocational calling. Profoundly, Keller says that work is "rearranging the raw material of God's creation for the purpose of human flourishing", and shows us how our work is inextricably tied to God's purpose for us. This is a fantastic book which helps us find meaning, purpose, and satisfaction in our work.
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