Summer Reading List 2023
Week 1 – Lead Like a Shepherd
Some instruction is timeless. Regardless of the age in which we live, certain instruction carries no expiration on its relevance. Pastor, author, and leadership consultant, Larry Osborne has discovered this to be the case with instruction on how to be a good leader. The best, most practical advice comes from the Bible, and in particular, 1 Peter 5:1-4. It’s in this short passage where leaders are exhorted to shepherd the flock among them.
Unfortunately, most modern leaders have precious little experience tending sheep, and many of the implications that were well understood when Peter penned these words are lost on today’s reader. Osborne finds the parallels to be numerous, well-worth reviewing and understanding anew.
A shepherd leads them to water even when they fear it. A shepherd never allows one sick lamb to destroy the flock. A shepherd lays down his life for his sheep . . .
When leaders truly understand Peter’s words of exhortation to lead like a shepherd, then they will begin to see the path that leads them to Leading Well.
Week 2 – Delighting in the Trinity
Why can we be saved? Because God is a Trinity. How are we able to live the Christian life? Through the Trinity.In this engaging book, Michael Reeves offers an introduction to Christianity and the Christian life that from start to finish is rooted in our triune God―Father, Son, and Spirit. Through the Trinity we understand not only the person and work of Christ but also prayer, the church, and every aspect of our faith. With wit and clarity, Reeves draws from church history down to the present, referencing a wide range of notable teachers and preachers.
For over a decade, Delighting in the Trinity has provided a rich, enjoyable portrait of basic Christian beliefs, opening up the profound and life-changing truths of our faith. It is now part of the IVP Signature Collection, which features special editions of iconic books in celebration of the seventy-fifth anniversary of InterVarsity Press.
Week 3 – The Red Sea Rules
Life is hard, especially for Christians. It is certain that we will face difficulties and that God will allow them. But just as certain is the fact that the same God who led us in will lead us out. As The Red Sea Rules makes comfortingly clear, He is in control.
Using the Israelites’ story in Exodus 14 as an example, Robert Morgan offers ten sound strategies for moving from fear to faith. Just as Moses and the Israelites became trapped between Pharaoh’s rushing armies and the uncrossable Red Sea, so are we sometimes overwhelmed by life’s problems.
In The Red Sea Rules, readers will learn strategies to:
- Realize that God means for you to be where you are
- Acknowledge your enemy, but keep your eyes on the Lord
- Stay calm and confident, and give God time to work
- View your current crisis as a faith builder for the future
The Red Sea Rules reveals that even in the midst of seemingly impossible situations, God promises to make a way for us. His loving guidance will protect us through danger, illness, marital strife, financial problems, or whatever challenges Satan places in our path.
Week 4 – Hope For The Hurting
Session topics:
1. Coming to the Comforter
2. Discovering the Treasure Within
3. The Greatness of Grace
4. Healing Through Humility
5. Come Get Your Rest
6. Turning Bitter to Sweet
Features:
● Six small group sessions
● One Bible Study Book and the original book on which the study is based (both included in Leader Kit)
● Teaching videos and session previews featuring author Tony Evans
● Personal study opportunities for ongoing spiritual growth
Benefits:
● Understand God’s purpose and power during suffering.
● Gain perspective on hurts and struggles.
● Find comfort from God during difficult times.
● Approach God with humility and expect healing.
● Seek God’s reason behind suffering.
● Realize God is working on your behalf in ways you might not be able to see.
● Turn to God in your hurt instead of away from Him.