There are three types of people in our country. There are, first of all, those who are able to read but do not read books. An AP-Ipsos poll recently revealed that 25% of Americans do not read books, while other polls have put the number higher, at around 50%. It is not that these Americans cannot read or that they do not accumulate knowledge. (No country’s citizens—and I mean none—bring more gravitas and enthusiasm to … [Read More]
The Top 25 (Or So) Books for a Young Theologian to Own (And Read)
If ever in history there were a non-event, this is it: my top 25 (or so) books for a young theologian to own (and read). A few weeks ago, a friend of mine sent me his list of twenty-five books and it “got me to thinkin.” So here’s my list, but before I give the list, allow me to make several comments.
First, I’ve focused this list mainly on Christian doctrine and systematic theology, and certain … [Read More]
Book Notice: “The World and The Word: An Introduction to the Old Testament”
You can no longer say that you were unaware: noted Old Testament scholar and SEBTS professor Mark F. Rooker is co-author (with Eugene H. Merrill and Michael A. Grisanti) of the newly released Old Testament intro text, The World and The Word: An Introduction to the Old Testament (B&H). Both those steeped in Old Testament study and those studying its treasures in-depth for the first time will benefit from this work.
The World and the Word … [Read More]
On Disciplined Reading (4): Why Should I Read? Other Advantages of Reading
In the first installment of this series, I gave a theological reason that one might want to read: God himself gave humans the unique ability to read and write, and to use our rational and imaginative capacities for his glory is one way that we reflect his image. In this installment, I will enumerate further reasons to read and some of the advantages accrued for a lifelong habit of reading.
First, reading books sharpens the mind. … [Read More]
On Disciplined Reading (3): How Should I Read? Tips on Getting the Most from Your Reading
If you would like to become a disciplined reader, you probably need to make a plan. That’s right. Make a list of books that you would like to read in each of your various categories of interest. If you have difficulty finding the right books to read in each category, spend some time researching. Ask an expert to give you a short list of favorites. Visit your library. Cruise the local Barnes & Noble. Surf … [Read More]
On Disciplined Reading (2): What Should I Read? Choosing from a Vast Array of Options
Determining what to read is more than a little important. Of the many books in any given library or bookstore, most can be left unread without any fear of intellectual or moral deprivation. Even (and sometimes especially) the bestsellers are not necessarily worth reading. So what should a seminary student read? Without being able to answer this question in specific, because each person’s callings, abilities, and tastes are unique, I will attempt to give some … [Read More]
On Disciplined Reading (1): Three Types of People
“Of making many books there is no end.” (Ecc 12:12)
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There are three types of people in our country. There are, first of all, those who do not read. An AP-Ipsos poll recently revealed that 25% of Americans do not read books, while other polls have put the number higher, at around 50%. It is not that these Americans cannot read or that they do not accumulate knowledge. (No country’s citizens—and I mean none—bring more … [Read More]
On Disciplined Reading
“Of making many books there is no end.” (Ecc 12:12)
There are three types of people in our country. There are, first of all, those who do not read. An AP-Ipsos poll recently revealed that 25% of Americans do not read books, while other polls have put the number higher, at around 50%. It is not that these Americans cannot read or that they do not accumulate knowledge. (No country’s citizens-and I mean none-bring more depth … [Read More]
