From an in-depth introduction to the Apostles to a comprehensive critique of theistic evolution and so much more. Here are our top picks for a thought-provoking read…

Quest for the Historical Apostles: Tracing Their Lives and Legacies by W. Brian Shelton

The stories and contributions of the apostles provide a fascinating entree into church history. As such, W. Brian Shelton, in Quest for the Historical Apostles, provides a comprehensive historical and literary introduction to the Apostles that uncovers their lives and legacies. Shelton has collected and distilled the histories, legends, symbols, and iconography of the original Twelve as well as located figures such as Paul, Peter, and John in the broader context of the history of the apostles. With this as a backdrop, he explores the continuing story of the gospel mission and the twelve disciples beyond the new Testament.

Related Reads –

The Search for the Twelve Apostles by William Steuart McBirnie
After Acts: Exploring the Lives and Legends of the Apostles by Bryan Litfin
Apostle: Travels Among the Tombs of the Twelve by Tom Bissell
Secrets of the Apostles: The Stories You Do Not Hear in Sunday School by W.C. Hinzie
The First to Follow: The Apostles of Jesus by John R. Claypool

Theophany: A Biblical Theology of God’s Appearing by Vern S. Poythress

Throughout the Bible, God appears to his people in many ways – fire, thunderstorm, cloud, man, warrior, and more. What do these temporary appearances of God – theophanies – mean? Why did God choose to reveal himself in these ways, at these times? Describing the various types of appearances from Genesis to Revelation, theologian Vern S. Poythress shows how these theophanies serve as revelations of God’s character and point to the ultimate appearing of God in the person of Christ. Becoming aware of God’s presence with his people, as revealed in theophanies, will call readers deeper to worship and eager anticipation of his full and final appearance in the new heaven and new earth.

Related Reads –

God at Sinai: Covenant and Theophany in the Bible and Ancient Near East by Jeffrey Niehaus
Divine Presence: Elements of Biblical Theophanies by Mark G. Boyer
Theophany: Close Encounters with the Son of God by Jonathan Stephen
The Unfolding Mystery: Discovering Christ in the Old Testament by Edmund P. Clowney

The Letter to Philemon: New International Commentary on the New Testament by Scot McKnight

Scot McKnight provides a careful textual analysis of the controversial letter to Philemon in this new addition to the NICNT series. Though Philemon’s content challenges social barriers and establishes new realities of conduct and fellowship, it has also been misused throughout time to justify slavery. In these pages, McKnight offers a much-needed careful exegesis of the text, contrasting ancient conventions with the practice of modern slavery and providing the context for a faithful and accurate reading. Pastors and scholars will find in this volume the insight they need to preach and teach this controversial book in meaningful new ways.

Related Reads –

Colossians and Philemon: Tyndale New Testament Commentary [TNTC] by N.T. Wright
Philippians, Colossians & Philemon: New American Commentary [NAC] by Richard Melick
Colossians & Philemon: NIV Application Commentary [NIVAC] by David E. Garland
1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon: An Ironside Expository Commentary by H.A. Ironside
The Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon: Pillar New Testament Commentary [PNTC] by Douglas J. Moo

Theistic Evolution: A Scientific, Philosophical, and Theological Critique

Many prominent Christians insist that the church must yield to contemporary evolutionary theory, resulting in the modification of traditional biblical ideas about the creation of life. They argue that God used evolutionary mechanisms to produce all forms of life. Contesting this proposal, Theistic Evolution documents evidential, logical, and theological problems with theistic evolution. Featuring two dozen highly credentialed scientists, philosophers, and theologians from Europe and North America, this work is the most comprehensive critique of theistic evolution produced to date.

Related Reads –

Old Earth or Evolutionary Creation? Discussing Origins with Reasons to Believe and BioLogos by Kenneth Keathley, J.B. Stump, Joe Aguirre
Four Views on Creation, Evolution, and Intelligent Design by Ken Ham, Hugh Ross, Deborah Haarsma, Stephen C. Meyer
Undeniable by Douglas Axe
Evolution: Scripture and Nature Say Yes by Denis Lamoureux
Faith & Fossils: The Bible, Creation & Evolution by Lester L. Grabbe

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