Each month I like to recap the books I have read which were particularly beneficial. Here are my favorites from April:

1.  Confronting Injustice Without Compromising Truth

Williams’ new book on Social Justice is one of my favorite reads in a long time. In our cultural moment, having biblical, balanced, and persuasive answers to the many issues encompassed by the “Social Justice” movement, is essential. This book is the best for equipping you to understand the major issues at play, how to think through them in a balanced, and biblical way, and respond winsomely towards those who would disagree with you. I rarely give 5 star ratings for books (less than 10% of books read) — this book is 5 stars, and a must read.

2. What Does God Want of Us Anyway? 

This small, short book by Dever is a true gem. Admittedly, I did not know it existed until recently, when Dever discussed it on his podcast Pastor’s Talk. This little book is an overview of the Bible, and is really helpful at giving someone a 10,000′ view of Scripture. I’ll use this with guys that I want to disciple, and in Sunday school classes where we study Scripture. Dever both gives the message of the Bible, and an intro to the different component. He even gives a sentence description of each book of the Bible! Incredibly helpful.

3. The Gatekeepers (Audiobook)

I am fascinated by anything related to Washington D.C., The Presidency, US Government, etc. While current political issues are exhausting, I find the history of our government intriguing. This book walks through a history of the White House, looking through the lens of the Chief’s of Staff, from Nixon to Obama. I found The Gatekeepers to be great history, and very entertaining. Important note: One should be aware that this book has lot of swear words in it, as it recounts the conversations which took place in closed door meetings.

4. Fault Lines

I have been studying up on Postmodernism, Critical Theory, and Social Justice the past year. Many books have been helpful, some more so than others. Voddie’s new book is in the “more than others” category. While there are books I prefer over this one (See #1 on this list), this book is very helpful. Voddie sees the division taking place in the church, and seeks to apply Scripture and reason to many of the issues we are wrestling with both in the church, and as a culture. Read Williams’ book first, then get this one.