This morning I had a conversation with a few friends regarding our favorite books of the Bible. I actually get asked this question frequently, so I thought I would blog about my top 7 books that I love to go to often, and discuss a bit on why I love them so much.
1) Nahum – Pure poetry. The book is only 3 chapters, and non Christian poetry scholars even agree that the poetic structure of the book is mesmerizing. Nahum’s name means compassion, but a peripheral reading of the book makes it look like God is all wrath against Nineveh as he pronounces judgment to that city just before he wipes them out. There are two verses in the first chapter that reveal that compassion for Israel is God’s motivation for his wrath against this great but vile city. Never has reading about death and destruction been accompanied by such beautiful literary structure.
2) Hebrews – I’m a huge fan of Jesus, and a huge fan of typology. Hebrews is the best place to read about both. We see Jesus as better. He is better than the prophets of old, better than angels, better than the priests, better than the sacrificial system, better than everything. This book is so full of rich biblical theology, that it inspires the reader to want to understand the scope of the story of redemption with greater clarity.
3) Ephesians – Who were you before Jesus? Who are you with Jesus? How did Jesus accomplish that? What is your role in the church? 4 major questions, this short book of just 6 chapters provides incredible answers.
4) 1 & 2 Samuel – The two books are meant to be read as one. The stories of the great kings of Israel, their interactions with God, and the inspiring life of the prophet Samuel draw me into a wonderful understanding of what life with God can look like for a Christian who desires God first. Failure is part of the Christian life, but God is a great redeemer. The book features war, courage, honor, trust, companionship, betrayal, and a crazy witch. The character of David shines even in his deepest sin as he seeks the heart of God.
5) 1 John – Do you ever struggle with apathy? Are you ever doubtful of the presence or love of God? Do you wonder what the love of God and the commandments of God have to do with your relationship to him? This little book has changed my life more than any other in the entire Bible, and it has saved me from the ledge more than once.
6) Nehemiah – This book has taught me more about leadership than any other book in Scripture. I’ve learned a lot about leadership from the pastoral letters of 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus, but this book helped me put all leadership principles into practice in powerful ways.
7) Isaiah – This book has taught me an incredible amount about the heart, character, and attributes of God. Never have I understood God’s hatred towards idolatry more that upon studying this book. If you want to understand this book you have to commit to it, but it’s worth it.
What is your favorite book of the Bible?
