One of my favorite disciplines is regularly engaging with good books—both classics and contemporary works—that sharpen my thinking and stir my affections for Christ. Here are a few books I’ve recently finished, along with some reflections on how they challenged, encouraged, or entertained me. This year, I’m trying to read a classic novel each month. It’ll be hard to top this month’s!
The Count of Monte Cristo – Alexandre Dumas
Few novels grip the imagination like The Count of Monte Cristo. This epic tale of betrayal, revenge, and redemption follows Edmond Dantès, a man wrongfully imprisoned who escapes, discovers great wealth, and embarks on a calculated quest for vengeance. But as the story unfolds, it becomes much more than a revenge narrative—it wrestles with questions of justice, God’s providence, and mercy. Dumas masterfully shows the cost of bitterness and the necessity of grace. Though long (my copy was over 800 pages), it doesn’t feel like a slog. I actually wanted more. The novel’s rich character development and intricate plotting make it well worth the time investment. I remember hearing R.C. Sproul say it was one of his favorite novels. Now I can say the same thing. If you’ve never read it, give it a shot; I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
John Owen: A Christian Vision for Every Stage of Life – Crawford Gribben
John Owen is often remembered for his towering theological works, but Gribben gives us a fresh perspective—tracing Owen’s life and ministry through the different seasons of his journey. From his early struggles in academia to his political engagement and pastoral labors, Owen’s life was marked by faithfulness amid shifting circumstances—even seasons of grief and doubt. In John Owen: A Christian Vision for Every Stage of Life, Gribben helps us see how Owen’s theology wasn’t just academic; it was deeply lived. This book offers encouragement for believers in all stages of life, reminding us that faithfulness in one season prepares us for the next.
The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer – Andrew Naselli
Part of the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series, this book takes a fascinating look at the biblical theme of serpents—from Eden to Revelation. Naselli connects the imagery of the serpent to the overarching story of Scripture, showing how Christ is the ultimate serpent slayer. The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer a short read but rich with insight, helping readers better understand the development of the promise in Genesis 3:15 throughout the history of Scripture (and the world). If you’re looking for a book that unpacks this important theological theme in a highly accessible way, this is a great pick.
Resurrection Hope and the Death of Death – Mitchell Chase
In a culture that often ignores or fears death, Chase offers a biblical and deeply pastoral reflection on the significance of the resurrection. In Resurrection Hope and the Death of Death, he traces how the hope of resurrection shapes the believer’s perspective on suffering, mortality, and eternity. Drawing from Scripture and church history, he shows that Christ’s victory over death is the foundation of our comfort and courage. I appreciate how he builds his argument from a number of Old Testament texts and themes (often ignored in discussions about the resurrection). This book is both theological and practical—offering encouragement for those facing grief while strengthening our confidence in the promises of God. This book is also part of the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series.
Offering and Embracing Christ – John Biegel
Offering and Embracing Christ a compelling exposition of the free offer of the gospel. Biegel explores the biblical foundation for extending Christ to sinners, emphasizing that the gospel call is sincere, urgent, and meant to be embraced by all who hear it. The book is an interaction and application of the late 18th Century pastor John Colquhoun (author of A Treatise on Law and Gospel). His careful historical study and warm pastoral tone make this a rich resource for those who want to grow in their understanding of evangelism and assurance. If you’re interested in the Marrow Controversy of the early 18th Century, Colquhoun is a helpful figure. Additionally, if you’ve wrestled with how the gospel is to be proclaimed or how sinners are to respond, this book will be both clarifying and encouraging. (Note: If you enjoyed Sinclair Ferguson’s The Whole Christ, you’d likely find this book helpful).
Final Thoughts
One of the best ways to stretch both the mind and the soul is through good books. Whether it’s a gripping classic, a deep theological study, or a fresh look at a biblical theme, reading challenges us to think more deeply, live more faithfully, and see the world through the lens of God’s truth. This past month, I’ve worked through a mix of books—some timeless, some newly published—that have sharpened my understanding of justice, grace, and the hope of the gospel.
From Dumas’ sweeping tale of revenge and redemption in The Count of Monte Cristo to Mitchell Chase’s rich reflection on the resurrection, each of these books has offered something valuable. Some have reinforced theological convictions, others have uncovered biblical themes in fresh ways, and a few have simply been a delight to read.
Each of these books, in different ways, has been a helpful reminder of the depth and beauty of God’s truth—whether through story, theology, or history. I hope you find something here to refresh your reading list.