Books
Here are some books that we have read and can recommend. If you are a bit
of a reader you may already know them and their presence on the list may indicate the kind of church that Oasis intend to be.
Theology
Systematic Theology
Wayne Grudem
The Christian church has a long tradition of systematic theology, that is, studying theology and doctrine organized around fairly standard categories such as the Word of God, redemption, and Jesus Christ. This book is an introduction to systematic theology.
Foundations of the Christian Faith
James Montgomery Boice
In one systematic volume James Boice provides a readable overview of Christian theology. Students and pastors will both benefit from this rich source that covers all of the major doctrines of Christianity. Boice carefully opens the topics of the nature of God, the character of natural and special revelation, the fall, and the person and work of Jesus. He then goes on to consider the work of the Holy Spirit in justification and sanctification.
20 Christian Beliefs
This reader-friendly guide provides a clear and concise introduction to key Christian beliefs. 20 chapters cover a range of biblical topics, with practical application to Christian living. Some historic confessions of faith and suggestions for further reading are also included.
Religious Affections
Jonathan Edwards
Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758), the central figure in New England's first Great Awakening, offers here his most detailed description of the signstrue and falseof revival, while highlighting the role truly balanced emotions play within the Christian life. He takes a long, hard look at the evidence of true conversionthe fruit that comes from living like Christ.
The Pleasures of God
John Piper
One way to see the glory of God is to meditate upon the object of his delightJohn Piper unfolds for us a vision of God through the lens of his happiness. What most delights the happiest Being in the universe? God's gladness in being God.
Basic Christianity
John Stott
This book clearly explains the fundamental claims of the Christian faith and explores how these beliefs impact the lives of believers. This volume is perfect for seekers who are desperate to know whether Christianity makes sense and believers who long for a deeper understanding of Christian belief.
Christian Living
Desiring God
God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. In this book, Piper calls this worldview Christian Hedonism and explains why pursuing maximum joy is essential to glorifying God.
Don't Waste Your Life
Millions of people are wasting their lives pursuing dreams of happiness that don't rise above a good marriage, nice kids, a successful career, a nice car, fun vacations, nice friends, a fun retirement, a painless death, and (hopefully) no hell. John Piper calls this a tragedy in the making.
Future Grace
Future Grace contains 31 chaptersone for each day of the monthincluding practical chapters on how faith in future grace defeats anxiety, pride, shame, lust, despondency and more.
God is the Gospel
Gospel means good newsbut what makes the good news good? What is the goal of the gospel, without which it is no longer good? It is that Christs death brings sinners to God!
Stop Dating the Church
Joshua Harris
Putting in their hour or two on the weekend, many Christians take the rest of the week off, neglecting the church and her needs. It's not a serious relationship...It's dating, with no assurances, no obligations. Bestselling author Joshua Harris calls Christians to stop playing the field and commit, just as Christ is committed to us, His bride.
Humility
C.J. Mahaney
C. J. Mahaney raises a battle cry to daily, diligently, and deliberately weaken our greatest enemy (pride) and cultivate our greatest friend (humility). His thorough examination clarifies misconceptions, revealing the truth about why God detests pride and turns His active attention to the humble.
Older Books
City of God
Augustine
By means of his contrast of the earthly and heavenly citiesthe one pagan, self-centered, and contemptuous of God and the other devout, God-centered, and in search of graceAugustine explores and interprets human history in relation to eternity.
The Confessions
Written A.D. 397, The Confessions are a history of the young Augustine's fierce struggle to overcome his profligate ways and achieve a life of spiritual grace. Saint Augustine addresses himself eloquently and passionately to the enduring spiritual questions that have stirred the minds and hearts of thoughtful men since time began.
Mere Christianity
C. S. Lewis
Rejecting the boundaries that divide Christianitys many denominations, C.S. Lewis provides an unequaled opportunity for believers and nonbelievers alike to hear a powerful, rational case for the Christian faith.
Gospel & Culture
Confessions of a Reformission Rev.
Mark Driscoll
This is the story of the birth and growth of Mars Hill Church (Seattle), one of Americas fastest-growing and most innovative churches located in one of Americas toughest mission fields. Its also the story of the growth of a pastor, the mistakes hes made along the way, and Gods grace and work in spite of those mistakes.
Radical Reformission
Reformation is the continual reforming of the mission of the church to enhance Gods command to reach out to others in a way that acknowledges the unique times and locations of daily life. This book calls for a movement of missionaries to seek the lost across the street as well as across the globe.
Case for Christ
Lee Strobel
This book records Lee Strobel's attempt to determine if there's credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God.
Let the Nations Be Glad!
This book has provided thousands of seminary students, missionaries, and pastors with a sound theological foundation for missions.
Taming the Tiger
Tony Anthony
This fast-paced, compelling and at times chilling account is the deeply moving story of a three-times Kung Fu World Champion. With fascinating insight into the traditions of Chinas martial arts, it documents the abusive upbringing that turned a four-year-old child into a hardened killer.
From China to Europe and across the Mediterranean, we follow Tony as he becomes an elite bodyguard, protecting some of the worlds most powerful people. Following personal tragedy, Tonys extreme discipline and the philosophy of his art is quickly turned. He begins to use his skills for illegal means and highly destructive, bloodthirsty pleasure.
Eventually incarcerated in jail in Cyprus, Tony hits rock bottom. But through the visits of a stranger, his life is dramatically changed. Though the prison walls hold him, he finds himself a free man. This is just the beginning of a complex and fascinating testimony.
Men, Women & Marriage
Recovering Biblical Manhood
Wayne Grudem & John Piper
Recent generations bear witness to the rise of evangelical feminisma movement that has had a profound impact on all of life, challenging some of our basic Christian beliefsCombining systematic argumentation with popular application, this volume deals with all of the main passages of Scripture brought forward in this controversy regarding gender-based role differences.
Celebration of Sex
Douglas Rosenau
Dr. Douglas Rosenau is a licensed psychologist, and a Christian sex therapist who has for the past seventeen years used his training in theology and counseling to help Christian couples enrich and reclaim God's wonderful gift of sexuality within marriage.
Point Man
Steve Farrar
This is a must read book for all Christian men. It speaks of comprehensively and profoundly on the lifestyles men should seek to develop in their mission for God's glory through them.
Feminine Appeal
Carolyn Mahaney
This book identifies with the challenges facing women in todays world and meets them with the guidance of Gods Word. The feminine virtues described in Titus 2 have transformed her life and the lives of countless other women. This book will show you the appeal of being a woman who lives for God and helps others do the same.
I Kissed Dating Goodbye
You tired of going out? Being dumped? Waiting for a call that never comes? Ever wondered, isnt there a better way? I kissed dating goodbye shows what it means to entrust your love life to God. Joshua Harris shares his story of giving up dating and discovering that God has something even better.
Boy Meets Girl
If youre fed up with self-centered relationships that end in disillusionment, its time to rethink romance. Finding the loving, committed relationship you want shouldnt mean throwing away your hopes, your integrity, or your heart.
