Best Books for Pastors in 2020 : 9Marks

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We asked pastors around the world a simple question: what books did you read in 2020 that helped you become a better pastor? we’ve curated their answers below. (See our 2019 list here, 2018 here, and 2017 here.)

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the gospel according to satan: eight lies about god that ring true, by jared c. wilson

“Wilson’s book is a revealing account of the anti-Gospel ideas that many believers sadly struggle with in the Christian life. the gospel according to satan dismantles ideas like, ‘god only wants you to be happy’ and ‘your feelings are your reality’, to name a few. This book has proven useful in counseling and discipling people who have inadvertently absorbed ideas contrary to the gospel.” — Dave Leandre, senior teaching pastor at Living Water Church in Vancouver, WA

Pastors and Their Critics: A Guide to Dealing with Criticism in Ministry, by Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson

“this book is really helpful. First, by exploring Old Testament examples and the life of Christ in the Gospels, pastors and their critics reveal the biblical foundation for dealing with criticism that is integral to leadership. Second, it builds on this foundation by giving biblical advice on how to humbly receive and gracefully respond to criticism. Finally, the book provides practical ways in which we can cultivate the right atmosphere in our churches, opening avenues for constructive criticism. I personally benefited a lot from this new book.” — Paul Tautges, senior pastor of Cornerstone Community Church in Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage, by Gavin Ortlund

“You think you understand theological triage, right? you must still read this book. It will help you think even more clearly and carefully about which hills you should die on.” — Sean Demars, pastor of 6th Avenue Community Church in Decatur, AL

say it: celebrating expository preaching in the black tradition, edited by eric redmond

“john stott once said that to preach was to apply the ancient text to the modern listener. Preachers can learn how to do that more effectively, Charlie Date suggests, by learning “from a tradition of preaching that grew out of the transatlantic diaspora, is baptized in suffering, sophisticated in rhetorical harmony, and yet proclaims salvation to all.” the land of their own captivity.” I am grateful for the hard thinking modeled in this book. I learned and was encouraged by each chapter, especially the sermons. Say it! It will help even seasoned preachers become more heralds. Faithful in seeing that “expository preaching and the African-American way are stellar dance partners, not enemies on the battlefield.”—Raymond Johnson, senior pastor of Christ Church West Chester in West Chester, PA

Stott on the Christian Life: Between Two Worlds, by Tim Chester

“john stott was one of the most influential evangelicals of the 20th century. Chester’s concise introduction helps Christians see how Stott’s humility, love for God’s word, clear articulation of the gospel, disciplined lifestyle, and love for the lost made him an example worthy of what What does it mean to follow Christ? — Alex Hong, senior pastor of Christian Fellowship Bible Church in West Covina, CA

Can we trust the gospels?, by peter j. Williams “This book is a helpful resource for discipling those who struggle with the veracity of scripture. Williams shows that the gospel writers are the greatest perpetrators of literary artifice of all time, or presented the truth of what happened in precise detail. can we trust the gospels? he runs through numerous examples where the gospel writers corroborate details, not only with each other, but also with extra-biblical historians. personally, this book gave me more love for god’s word and the ability to dialogue with doubting christians and questioning unbelievers.” — Draw Cunningham, pastor of Santa Cruz Baptist Church in Aptos, CA

the rare gem of christian contentment, by jeremiah burroughs

This old book wasn’t written in 2020, but it was written for 2020. When I couldn’t meet with members, preach, or sing with the saints gathered earlier in the year, burrough’s book was a tonic. for my soul it helped me continue to ground my sense of joy in the lord in his faithful work toward me, not mine toward him. As we re-enter stricter lockdown procedures in my country, I’m considering putting everything else down to read it again. — caleb greggsen, pastor of an international church in central asia

The Man of God: His Shepherding, Evangelism, and Counseling Labors (Pastoral Theology Volume 3) by Albert N. martin

the final installment of martin’s pastoral trilogy presents the full spectrum and nature of pastoral ministry. this book helped me examine the different duties of a pastor, reflect on my own shortcomings, and pray for grace to improve as a pastor. — Alex Hong, senior pastor of Christian Fellowship Bible Church in West Covina, CA

Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers, by Dane Ortlund

“this book is likely to become a modern classic for one main reason: it brings you closer to jesus. I needed a new encounter with my savior and I am grateful for the way this book provided it for me.” — Garrett Kell, pastor of Ray Baptist Church in Alexandria, VA

Biblical Theology According to the Apostles: How the Early Christians Told Israel’s Story, by Chris Bruno, Jared Compton, and Kevin McFadden

“I appreciate the careful studies that explore the connection between the at and the nt. that’s what I found in this book. The authors examine various summaries of Israel’s history incorporated into the NT text for specific pastoral purposes. These summaries warn, rebuke, encourage, and reassure, always keeping the focus on the promises of salvation and resurrection for all nations, fulfilled in the Messiah. this book is an excellent guide to see in the scriptures how the history of israel shapes the mission and hope of the church.” — benjamin wright, pastor of cedar pointe baptist church in cedar park, tx

Christ: The Doctrine of Christ for Every Woman, by Jenny Reeves Manley

“jenny manley’s book is a treasure trove of reflection on the most important figure in history. From start to finish, discover the beauty and relevance of the person and work of Christ. i know jesus more truly and love him more deeply because i read this book. obtain several copies, distribute them among your members and marvel together before the king of glory.” — matt smethurst, elder at third avenue baptist church in louisville, ky

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honorable mention:

An Assembly: Rethinking Multi-Site, Multi-Service Church Models, by Jonathan Leeman: “This book’s discussion of what a church is was helpful, especially as our church navigated covid19 lockdowns. Leeman’s exploration! about “catholicity” was also edifying!” — Nathan Carter, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Chicago, IL

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Best Books for Pastors in 2020 : 9Marks

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