At this point in the year some of us already have our book list locked in. But for those who have an incomplete or fluid list here are some reading suggestions from a few ministry leaders:

Ben Mandrell, CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources

Preaching and Preachers by Martyn Lloyd-Jones

“Like many writers of the classics, Lloyd Jones offers words that feel more weighty than most books on preaching. He lays a foundation and addresses practical challenges in communicating the Word. His ‘old style’ still sticks today.”

Studies on the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd-Jones

“I was handed this resource as I was preaching through the Sermon on the Mount, in my early years as a pastor. It has become one of those books that convicts me to the core every time I read back over it. The Sermon on the Mount is deeply devotional.”

Planning Your Preaching by Stephen Rummage.

“This is one of those books that I would pull off the shelf and re-read when my “fresh ideas” tank was empty as a preacher. Rummage stirs up all kinds of ideas for various sermon series as well as approaches in feeding the flock.”

Derwin Gray, lead and founding pastor of Transformation Church

Conformed to His Image: Biblical and Practical Approaches to Spiritual Formation by Dr. Ken Boa

“It’s the best book on discipleship I have ever read. Dr. Boa’s book has been vital in shaping me.”

The High Definition Leader: Building Multiethnic Churches in a Multiethnic World by Dr.Derwin L. Gray

“This book will equip pastors to build churches that reflect God’s Kingdom. I provide the theology and practices of a multiethnic church using the Apostle Paul as an example. The book is accessible and practical.”

Fellowship of Differents: Show the World God’s Design for Life Together by Dr. Scot McKnight

“This renowned New Testament scholar provides us with a blueprint of how the Apostle Paul was able to build God’s Kingdom on earth.”

Russell Moore, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission

Adorning the Dark: Thoughts on Community, Calling, and the Mystery of Making by Andrew Peterson

“It’s part guidance for people to use their creative gifts in line with the gospel, part memoir about a life in songwriting and all other forms of creativity, and part a meditation on the meaning of life” (quoted from his website).

Greg Jao, director of external relations for Intervarsity

The Contemplative Pastor by Eugene Peterson

The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero

Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership by Ruth Haley Barton