This year was my second-best year of reading. I don’t necessarily mean that the books themselves were the best I have ever read. Rather, I tied for the most books I have ever read in a single year. Surprisingly, I finished 52 books.

Below are my recommendations, the books I found most interesting or impactful. My criteria is simple. Did it make me think, pause, or share parts of it with others? In some cases, I had to put the book down just to process what I had read.

I am convinced book lists are deeply subjective. What resonates with someone often depends on what they are walking through, their personality, responsibilities, challenges, and a hundred other filters. What was meaningful to me may not be for you. However, I have found that if several friends recommend the same book, there is a good chance it will be worth my time.

So here are my top reads from 2025, not necessarily in order.

The Church of Living Dangerously by John Lee Bishop

I was with a pastor friend and asked him what the best book he had read this year was. He said, “It is not the best, but it is the craziest.” He was right. I had never heard of this church or this tragic story. Just when you think someone couldn’t go any further off the rails, there is always a way. I would read sections aloud to my wife, and eventually she read it herself in two sittings. It is a page-turner and, at the same time, a heartbreaking picture of what happens when wander away from humility and holiness.

Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier

With all the focus on mental health in schools and society, why does it not seem to be improving? Why does it often feel like things are heading in the wrong direction? This is a very thought-provoking analysis and a book worth reading, especially if your kids are in therapy.

Surrender by Bono

This isn’t just a book. It is a work of art. Truly. Don’t just buy the print version. Get the audiobook as well. I listened to it first and then read it. The creativity and intentionality Bono put into both formats is staggering. If you love U2 or remember their activism alongside evangelicals in the 2000s, this one is for you.

30 Days to Understand the Bible by Max Anders

It does exactly what the title promises. This is a great book for anyone new to the faith or wanting a clearer understanding of Scripture. It is a perfect way to start a new year or any new month.

Great by Choice by Jim Collins

Somehow, I had never read this Collins classic. If it has been a while for you or if it slipped through your reading list, this one is a winner. I especially loved the “fire bullets, then cannonballs” principle and the “20-Mile March”.

Diary of a Pastor’s Soul by M. Craig Barnes

This book reflects on a pastor’s final year before retirement and the emotions that accompany that season. Pastoral ministry is a sacred privilege filled with unique relationships and challenges. Having a clear picture of the end is helpful whether you are just starting out, in the middle, or nearing the finish. It is not a book for everyone, but if you are a pastor…read it.

The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce W. Longenecker
Phoebe by Paula Gooder

I grouped these together because I love this genre. Scholars take the limited details we have from Scripture and thoughtfully fill in the gaps using historical context and a sanctified imagination. It is a powerful way to learn the cultural and historical background of the New Testament, and both of these books excel in that space.

George Whitefield by Arnold Dallimore

Dallimore originally wrote a massive two-volume biography of George Whitefield. Thankfully, he condensed it into an accessible 200-page version for people like me. Whitefield was a man greatly used by God and wasn’t in it for fame or power. He sought peace and unity with other churches even when they vilified him. He willingly let go of his own name so the cause of Christ could flourish, even when others took advantage of the vacuum he refused to fill. It didn’t leave me with the same view of John Wesley. I was also reminded that preaching the gospel has never been easy. So let’s preach it boldly, believing that God is already at work calling people to Himself.

The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann

A short, parable-style book that is well worth your time. It offers a simple but powerful vision for generosity in every area of life.

How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price

Someone at church gave me this book (ouch!) because they thought it complemented a message I had recently given. It offers a practical plan for spending less time on your phone. We all struggle with this, and a breakup might not be such a bad thing.

Experiencing the Land of the Book by Charles H. Dyer

I read this in preparation for a trip I am leading to Israel. If you don’t think you’ll ever be able to go or if you want to prepare for a future trip, start here. Dyer walks through the land day by day and site by site, offering clear and helpful takeaways.

The Gospel Invitation by O.S. Hawkins and Matt Queen

I went back to school on this topic partly because of reading the George Whitefield biography and partly because I was humbled when my daughter displayed more faith and boldness in inviting others to follow Christ than I did. What would we pastors do differently if we truly believed it was harvest season? Because it is. We have a generation of pastors who were never trained to do this well. I had to get over my insecurity and begin calling people to repentance with greater clarity and courage.

BONUS RECOMMENDATIONS

Build an A Team by Whitney Johnson

How long does it take an employee to truly master their role? When do they begin to feel stagnant or bored? This book offers helpful insights on developing people well so you don’t lose great team members once they hit their stride.

Rhythm by Patrick Thean

What consistent rhythms lead to sustained success? A timely and helpful reminder.

Your Story Has a Villain by Jonathan Pokluda

It is not what you think. Despite the title, this is not a self-help book about victim mentality. It is about spiritual warfare. A helpful framework for understanding the deeper forces at work in the world.

The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins