MARK CANNISTERRevisiting Relational Youth Ministry: From a Strategy of Influence to a Theology of Incarnation by Andrew Root (IVP)
Too often our relationships contain ulterior motives, and we abandon teenagers when our goals aren’t achieved. In what is perhaps the most important youth ministry book of the 21
st century, Andy Root has brilliantly laid before us an essential course correction for relational ministry that is faithful to the incarnation of Jesus.
LARRY LINDQUISTLetters to a Young Evangelical: The Art of Mentoring by Tony Campolo (Basic Books)
Campolo often makes me nuts and challenges me to think at the same time. That is why among the books I’ve reviewed, this one stuck with me. I was personally challenged to think through and solidify my convictions on some very tough issues. The format of the book is creatively engaging, and the issues Tony raises are too often theological “elephants” in the evangelical room that we don’t want to see.
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by Shane Claiborne (Zondervan)
This is the book that will not let me go. I have read many books that have been challenging intellectually and have been able to put them safely back on the shelf. But this book has called me, and many others, to action, to a different kind of life. Since my first reading over a year ago, I have been propelled into a journey that truly has become an irresistible revolution. Be forewarned: if you read it seriously, it may mess with your mind, heart and even your life.
PAUL BERRYThe Dirty Little Secret: Uncovering the Truth Behind Porn by Craig Gross and Carter Krummrich (Zondervan)
This is the most helpful tool I’ve reviewed. Gross is venturing into dark places that few have dared to explore, and he’s bringing people back with him. Really great stuff.
JOHN DUNHAMFollowing Jesus in a Culture of Fear by Scott Bader-Saye (Brazos Press)
Bader-Saye shares a great perspective on fear, one of the most abused commodities in our culture. His encouragement to follow Jesus is exactly the antidote we need.
ADAM GRIFFINEverybody Wants to Go to Heaven But Nobody Wants to Die: Or the Eschatology of Bluegrass by David Crowder and Mike Hogan (Relevant)
This is thought-provoking, raw, honest, messy and even at times bizarre; and that makes this book totally unique.
CHERI GILLARDIn Between: A Katie Parker Production (Act I) by Jenny B. Jones (Th1nk Books/NavPress)
Jones shines with In Between, not only because her talent outstrips so many other writers in her genre, but also because she doesn’t offer trite resolutions to tough circumstances.
TONY MYLES