Ministry Starter Kit

I was recently asked to provide a reading list for a young pastor. I should begin by saying that, even though I am an avid reader and lover of books, some important aspects of ministry will only be learned through experience. Also, as a lover of books, I want to remind everyone that nothing can replace your regular, systematic reading of God’s word. It is the most important book you will ever read.

Before you get to the list, let me offer a few disclaimers:

  1. This is not an exhaustive list. These are just suggested books for each topic.
  2. These are not required reads (Except the Bible).
  3. The books below are listed in no order other than the order in which my eyes located them on a shelf or my mind wandered to their title.
  4. The fact that I include a book does not mean I approve of everything the author says or does (for instance, Stephen King is on this list…yes, that Stephen King).
  5. I have left out many topics that could or maybe even should be included, I am sorry.
  6. If I left out your favorite book, please leave it in the comments so others can benefit from your experience.

With that being said, here is a starter kit for your ministry library if you sense God calling toward ministry or you are starting out in ministry now.

Study Bibles

Bible Study (Hermeneutics)

Preaching

Theology

Ministry and Discipleship

Leadership

Culture

Personal and Family Discipleship

Evangelism and Apologetics

Health and Wellness (Because You Want To Stay Healthy Enough to Serve God a Long Time)

Photo by Tom Hermans on Unsplash