The Best Books and Podcasts for New Christians
Although I haven’t been a new Christian for a while, I have lived alongside young Christians (both in terms of their age and the stage of their relationship with God). I also shared a flat with two ‘baby’ Christians when I was at university.
Currently, my social media feeds seem to be full of people who have recently come to faith in Jesus, so I wanted to offer some big-sisterly advice and point you to resources that might help you grow deep roots and a better understanding of your faith. Sadly, there’s a lot of false teaching out there, so it’s important to get a good start.
Books and Podcasts to Help with Reading and Studying the Bible
One of the best things you can do as a young Christian is read the Bible and learn more about the God of the universe, His plan and how to serve Him.
I’d recommend reading the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. These short books are eyewitness accounts of the life of Jesus. Then, Genesis is a great one to read to get the very beginning of the story. If you’d like to track your reading, I have a printable and a sticker version of a Bible reading log.
My favourite books to help with reading and studying the Bible are:
Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds by Jen Wilkin - Really, this book should be called ‘People of the Word’ because everything Wilkin says applies to both men and women. However, as a Bible teacher for women specifically, in this book she addresses the way many approach reading the Bible, putting their emotions before their heads. In contrast, she offers a clear, simple approach, guiding you in understanding God’s Word in a way that strengthens your thinking and gently shapes your heart, helping you grow closer to Him, step-by-step.
The Bible Recap by Tara-Leigh Cobble - This is a great book to read alongside a chronological reading of the Bible. There is a lot of helpful insight in the commentary. I’m learning from this book, and I have been a Christian for over 25 years. If you prefer to listen, it also exists as a podcast.
You Are a Theologian by J.T. English and Jen Wilkin - This simple book explains the basics of core doctrines which will set you up to know what you believe and why. Written simply and with humour, it’s a great one to give you confidence in what you believe.
My favourite podcasts to help with reading and studying the bible include:
Through the Bible in a Year with Jackie Hill Perry - Jackie reads a portion of scripture to you each day. She has a wonderful, soulful voice, and as a poet, she reads with great rhythm. This podcast is truly a joy to listen to.
Two Sisters and a Cup of Tea - This podcast features conversations about Bible study and an encouragement to read the Bible with someone else. If you’re looking for a partner to do this with, why not ask someone a little further ahead in the faith in your church? And if you need advice on getting to know people and making friends, read How to Foster Community and Make Friends at Church.
Sermons and Talks for New Christians
Another thing you can do is listen to sermons and talks by people who are ahead of you on this journey. I’d encourage you to look for speakers with great stories and a firm handle on theology, who know Jesus personally and have done for a while.
Light and Truth - I love classic sermons from John Piper, author, theologian and retired pastor. His book, Desiring God, is an absolute classic too.
Tim Keller Sermons - Tim Keller was an author and theologian who founded Redeemer Presbyterian in New York.
Welbeck Road Evangelical Church - This is church I attended in Newcastle upon Tyne. David Larmour is a gifted communicator with sound theology.
What’s the Story by Crowd Church - Sometimes being a Christian can be lonely. These stories about faith and courage from everyday people show that you are not alone and that God works in people’s lives, regardless of their situation.
More Books to Read as a New Christian
- Confronting Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
- Disciplines of a Godly Woman by Barbara Hughes
Other Helpful Podcasts for New Christians
Thanks For Stopping By
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