As an educator at a Christian university, I find myself continually recommending the same books to my students who desire to deepen their faith. These are books I read during my undergraduate studies or books I read much later that I know would have been beneficial to me at such a pivotal time in my life.
My must-read list for Christian life and spirituality consists of 25 books (you can view it here). But for the purpose of brevity, I’ve included below the top five books that I believe any Christian should read—the earlier in their Christian walk, the better.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Lewis’ Mere Christianity is a masterclass in clarity and conviction, unfolding the core truths of the Christian faith with a logic that is both compelling and deeply personal. Reading it in college gave me a framework for understanding not just what I believe, but why it matters. Lewis’ ability to distill complex theological ideas into simple, unforgettable analogies had a profound impact on my life. This is the kind of book that demands multiple readings—each time revealing new layers of insight into the beauty and reasonableness of Christian belief. Essential.
The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Bonhoeffer’s The Cost of Discipleship unsettled me in the best possible way. It was impossible to read without pausing to examine my own complacency, my own easy-Christianity mindset. His call to “costly grace” cut deep, compelling me to ask whether I had truly surrendered my life to Christ or merely sought the benefits of belief without the sacrifice. Bonhoeffer’s words are weighty, shaped by the reality of his own martyrdom, and they have continued to press on my conscience long after I turned the final page.
Knowing God by J.I. Packer
J.I. Packer’s Knowing God was like sitting under the teaching of a wise mentor who made the grandeur of God both accessible and awe-inspiring. His chapter on the fatherhood of God (Chapter 19 – “Sons of God”), in particular, reshaped my understanding of what it means to be a child of God, what it means to be a Christian. This book is not just about knowing things about God but actually knowing him—walking with him, loving him, and delighting in him. It’s rich, dense, and well worth the effort.
The Call by Os Guinness
Os Guinness’ The Call was the right book at the right time. It confronted my restlessness and uncertainty about the future, redirecting my attention from mere career aspirations to the deeper reality of calling. Guinness weaves together theology, history, and personal reflection in a way that resonates deeply, making it clear that calling is not first about what I do but about whose I am. There’s a reason this book is required reading in so many core courses at faithfully orthodox Christian colleges; it speaks to the very heart of what it means to live with eternal purpose.
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
The Screwtape Letters challenged me to see the world—and my own spiritual struggles—from an entirely new perspective. Lewis’ fictional correspondence between a senior demon and his apprentice is both hilarious and unsettling, exposing the subtle ways temptation creeps into everyday life. I saw myself in the spiritual pitfalls he describes—the distractions, the small compromises, and the slow drift away from true devotion. This book made me more aware, more watchful, and more determined to live with intentionality in my faith. It is a rare combination of wit, wisdom, and piercing truth.
