Read These Books

The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment by Tim Challies
This book is written by a Canadian blogger who has probably one of the best known blogs in Reformed circles. All the big names read him for his insightful comments and numerous book reviews. This is his first book. It is probably good that one acquainted with the vast diversity on the internet and the all the bad theology that is promoted therein, deal with the issue of spiritual discernment. This is a book every believer should read and soak in the wisdom of the lost art of discernment. Tim wisely sees the challenges and the pitfalls of discernment and avoiding needless judgmentalism. But the spiritual health of the Church and the local fellowship of the Body of Christ is dependent upon a proper use of discernment in dealing with problem doctrine and divisive people. His opening parable is dynamite.

Risking the Truth: Handling Error in the Church by Martin Downes
A Welsh pastor digs into the minds of a diverse (geographically) group of pastors and theologians about the problem of heresy in the church. This is a candid and personal look in the way false doctrine and bad influences get started in solid orthodox circles. It relates the beguiling and attractive appeal that heresy has had on people and its destructive power. This book is good medicine, but not always easy to swallow in our climate of tolerance and niceness among Evangelicals. Of, course the answer is not in being mean and combative, but “speaking the truth in love,” as Paul did. All recent movements besetting our churches are reflected upon and critiqued, but in a storytelling of personal encounters and struggles. There is great balance found in this book. It is important that we take this seriously.