In 2 Timothy 4:13, Paul writes to Timothy and requests, "When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments."
This is an amazing request. Even though Paul is in prison awaiting execution, he still desires to read and study so that he can continue to work for the sake of the gospel!
When asked about the importance of reading good books, Charles Spurgeon answered,
As the apostle says to Timothy, so also he says to every-one, 'Give yourself to reading.' ... He who will not use the thoughts of other men's brains proves that he has no brains of his own... You need to read. Renounce as much as you will all light literature, but study as much as possible sound theological works, especially the Puritanic writers, and expositions of the Bible... the best way for you to spend your leisure is to be either reading or praying."
Paul's request highlights the important role the reading of sound books plays in the believer's spiritual growth and effectiveness in gospel ministry. Below are a few links to resources that we recommend covering various topics.
Recommended Reading
- The Discerning Reader
- CVBBS
- Monergism Books
- Solid Ground Books
- World Magazine
- Table Talk Devotional
- P & R Publishing
Recommended Ministries
- Desiring God
- 9Marks
- Sovereign Grace Ministries
- Voddie Baucham Ministries
- Ligonier Ministries
- Grace to You
- Heart Cry Missionary Society
Church Documents
Theology / Bible Study
- Monergism
- BibleGateway
- Hall of Church History
- Al Mohler
- Stand to Reason
- SermonAudio.com
- Modern Reformation
- Grace Online Library
- Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals
- Anthony Carter
Homeschool / Christian Education
- Association of Classical Christian Schools
- Home Educators Association of Virginia
- Veritas Press
- Logos School
- Covenant Home Curriculum
- Patrick Henry College
World Missions / Culture
Family Life
- Revive Our Hearts
- The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood
- Eternal Perspectives Ministries
- Christian Counseling and Education Foundation
- FamilyLife