Recommended Resources for Church Leaders
Welcome to our curated list of resources designed specifically for church leaders. Here, you'll find a comprehensive selection of books and materials organized by various areas of ministry, including student ministry, children’s ministry, adult ministry, leadership training, and staff training.
Students
The (young) Men We Need
by Brant Hansen
This book offers a clear and compelling vision of true masculinity for young men, combining depth and humor. Brant Hansen challenges young men to be ambitious about the right things and see themselves as protectors of the vulnerable. It includes discussion questions to facilitate deeper understanding.
The Case for Christ (Student Edition)
by Lee Strobel
Is Jesus really the Son of God, the Messiah? Lee Strobel wasn't so sure. So, he decided to use his award-winning journalistic skills to investigate Jesus and prove once and for all if all the claims about him are true. The Case for Christ Student Edition adapts Strobel’s New York Times bestselling book to present hard-hitting findings as well as Lee’s journey from skepticism to belief in an easy-to-follow manner so you can make a decision about Jesus for yourself.
Adults
The Men We Need
by Brant Hansen
Brant Hansen offers a clear and compelling vision of true masculinity, emphasizing that men are designed to be protectors and defenders of the vulnerable. With short, wisdom-filled chapters and Hansen’s signature humor, this book challenges men of all backgrounds to be ambitious about the right things. Perfect for any man seeking to understand his true purpose.
Blessed are the Misfits
by Brant Hansen
In "Blessed Are the Misfits," Brant Hansen addresses those who feel out of place in American church culture. As an introverted skeptic and "Aspie," Hansen explores modern Christianity and the beauty of being different. He reassures readers that the Good News is for everyone, even if they don't fit the typical extroverted, emotional mold. This book offers comfort and inclusion for those who struggle with social interactions, confidence, or emotional spiritual experiences, highlighting that there is a special place for "misfits" in God's kingdom.
The Secret Blend
by Stan Toler
A Parable that helps bridge the gap between how to balance quality life versus falling into mediocre life as an average joe. It's a journey of discovery about the most important priority of life: relationships.
Unoffendable
by Brant Hansen
"Unoffendable," now revised and updated with two new chapters, provides a practical guide to living a less stressful life by letting go of the "right" to be offended. In a society where being easily offended is common, Hansen offers a radical idea: we are not entitled to perpetual anger or offense. Instead, he suggests embracing humility, gratitude, and forgiveness as pathways to a healthier and more relaxed life. With concrete advice on adjusting expectations, replacing anger, and loving others, this book challenges readers to become the most unoffendable people on the planet.
Celebration of Discipline
by Richard Foster
This timeless spiritual classic by Richard Foster explores the core disciplines of Christian faith, helping readers discover a richer spiritual life filled with joy and peace. The book delves into inward disciplines like meditation and prayer, outward disciplines such as simplicity and service, and corporate disciplines like worship and confession. Perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of God.
Life is hard. God is Good. Let’s Dance.
by Brant Hansen
An essential companion to Brant Hansen’s bestselling "Unoffendable," this book centers on cultivating a mindset of joy in a world filled with anxiety and societal clashes. Hansen asserts that a fulfilling, joyful life is promised to all who follow Jesus, emphasizing that while life is hard, God is good. Through a childlike, humble, and optimistic perspective, Hansen shares stories from his global travels and personal experiences, illustrating how God is at work in the world.
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
by Donald S. Whitney
Donald Whitney’s insightful guide on spiritual disciplines challenges Christians to pursue holiness through practical biblical habits. This updated edition offers suggestions for spiritual growth, including absorbing Scripture, prayer, worship, evangelism, serving, fasting, silence, solitude, and journaling. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their Christian walk with practical and encouraging guidance.
Leadership
Hidden Potential
by Adam Grant
In "Hidden Potential," Adam Grant challenges the obsession with innate talent, highlighting how we often overlook our own ability to grow and excel. Through groundbreaking evidence, vivid storytelling, and surprising insights, Grant illustrates that success is less about inherent genius and more about character development and effective learning. This book provides a new framework for exceeding expectations and building opportunities, showing that the true measure of potential is not where you start, but how far you can go. Perfect for anyone seeking to maximize their growth and realize their hidden capabilities.
Give and Take
by Adam Grant
In "Give and Take," Adam Grant, an award-winning researcher and Wharton’s highest-rated professor, explores how our interactions with others are key to success in today’s world. Moving beyond the traditional drivers of passion, hard work, talent, and luck, Grant examines the surprising forces that determine why some people succeed while others don't. Lauded by social scientists, business theorists, and corporate leaders, this revolutionary book reveals how giving, taking, and matching in professional relationships can shape our path to the top. Perfect for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of success and productivity in a collaborative world.
Help! I’m in charge
by Rod Loy
In "Help! I'm in Charge," Pastor Rod Loy provides practical answers and personal stories to address common leadership challenges. This insightful book covers crucial topics such as handling the unexpected, the importance of likability, managing secure and insecure people, and coping with the pressures of leadership. With godly wisdom presented in ten easy-to-read chapters, Loy offers real-life examples and biblical principles to help leaders navigate their roles effectively. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills with practical advice and spiritual guidance.
The Steward Leader
by R. Scott Rodin
In "The Steward Leader," Scott Rodin provides a unified and clear model of leadership by combining a biblical understanding of holistic stewardship with contemporary leadership studies. Rodin addresses the complexities of leadership roles, offering a transformational approach that is biblically sound, theologically rich, and practically compelling. Drawing from his extensive experience in development, fundraising, and theological training, Rodin's insights are valuable for leaders in churches, not-for-profit ministries, and businesses seeking sound and effective leadership practices.