We’ve talked about Christianity Today’s much-linked list of 50 books that have influenced evangelicals. Justin Taylor at the Reformation 21 blog asked some friends (“two Presbyterians, two Reformed charismatics, and two up-and-coming progressive dispensationalists”) to weigh in with their lists of books that should have been influential. And (via Evangelical Outpost) I see that Purgatorio has come up with a list of 50 books that shouldn’t be on your bookshelf.
Lots of lists, lots of books. And to think I’ve made it this far through my life as an evangelical by mostly just continually re-reading The Lord of the Rings...
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October 24, 2006 at 09:59
I felt very disillusioned reading these lists and the comments on them. When it comes to what shouldn’t be influential, though those discussing it may have valid points somewhere behind their criticism, I think they fail to take into consideration Romans 14, and create the very real potential of harming someone weaker in the faith by their intellectual arrogance. The manner in which I see concerns about these books being addressed is a major turn off for putting any stock into what these critics are saying. If the point is to slam someone, that has been accomplished, but if it is to instruct and redirect misguided souls, it is lacking the understanding needed to gain trust and respect from those they wish to influence.
And I guess this brings out a question- what is the purpose of such lists? To applaud (or deride) our brothers and sisters who write, a sort of Billboard of Christian authors? To advise and instruct the general population of the church? Or…?
October 25, 2006 at 12:07
I can see what you are saying, Leslie, but this list was compiled as a tally of books that have influenced certain (named) pastors/preachers/leaders/teachers.
Lots of times lists are useful because they are condensations of informative materials we might not otherwise ever check out or know about. And list compilations can be fun if you look and think “Whoa – that author is awful! How could anybody stay awake long enough to be influenced by them? Trying to digest their work gives me a ‘tome-y’ ache!”
October 26, 2006 at 05:13
I think its important to consider that it does matter what we, as christians, read and the spiritual food (and junk food for that matter!) that goes our minds when we read so called ‘christian’ books. We shouldnt just read something because it claims to be ‘biblically sound’ and is for sale in our local christian book store. Not all authors may have the Spirit…
I personally believe that alot of these books can be damaging to the young Christian if they are not theologically sound. I say this from my own experience (as still a quite young Christian :D) and i think it is important to choose, just like other media, our reading/viewing material wisely…
ok, thats all i have to say
the lists did make interesting reads though. Its funny that “A Purpose Driven Life” was in the top 50 ‘bad books’... i know of a church who is currently working their way through that book for their Sunday sermon.