Why should Christians read good books? Primarily, because God chose the written word—the Bible—as the ultimate way to reveal His character and saving truth to humanity, thereby elevating the act of reading itself. Beyond Scripture, books written by insightful thinkers and theologians are vital tools that help us understand complex biblical concepts that might be difficult to grasp on our own. Furthermore, reading profoundly shapes a Christian’s spiritual life by continuously revealing God’s glory, bringing conviction of sin, providing guidance in righteous living, and offering deep encouragement during difficult times through the testimonies of others. Ultimately, engaging with good Christian books refines a believer’s logic, imagination, and communication, equipping them to better interpret truth and faithfully navigate their spiritual journey.

What I have attempted to do below is provide a “Top 25” list of books every Christian coach should seek to eventually read at some point in their life. This list contains accessible books on a wide variety of topics from theology to parenting, biblical interpretation to conflict resolution. There are many other great books I could have listed, but for coaches, I think this is a good start. Take up and read!

The Roster

1. What is the Gospel by Greg Gilbert
2.  
3. Complete in Him: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying the Gospel by Michael Barrett
4.  
5. You Are A Theologian by J.T. English and Jen Wilken
6.  
7. What Is Biblical Theology?: A Guide to the Bible's Story, Symbolism, and Patterns by Jim Hamilton
8.  
9. The Message of the Old Testament: Promises Made by Mark Dever
10.  
11. The Message of the New Testament: Promises Kept by Mark Dever
12.  
13. What Is a Healthy Church? by Mark Dever
14.  
15. Knowing God by J.I. Packer
16.  
17. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist by John Piper
18.  
19. Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines by David Mathis
20.  
21. Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by Tim Keller
22.  
23. Be Thou My Vision: A Liturgy for Daily Worship by Jonathan Gibson
24.  
25. Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop
26.  
27. 40 Questions About Suffering and Evil by Greg Welty
28.  
29. The Heart of Jesus: How He Really Feels about You by Dane Ortlund
30.  
31. Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul Tripp
32.  
33. Family Discipleship: Leading Your Home through Time, Moments, and Milestones by Adam Griffin
34.  
35. The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God by Tim Keller
36.  
37. How People Change by Paul Tripp and Timothy Lane
38.  
39. Christ-Centered Conflict Resolution: A Guide for Turbulent Times by Tony Merida
40.  
41. Leadership in Christian Perspective: Biblical Foundations and Contemporary Practices for Servant Leaders by Justin Irving and Mark Strauss
42.  
43. A Little Theology of Exercise: Enjoying Christ in Body and Soul by David Mathis
44.  
45. Embodied Holiness: The Biblical Call to Bodily Care by Lainey Greer
46.  
47. Side by Side: Walking with Others in Wisdom and Love by Ed Welch
48.  
49. When I Am Afraid: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Fear and Anxiety by Ed Welch