Christian Reading

The intellectual historian Peter Gay appended bibliographical essays to many of his books. These are commentaries on both primary and secondary sources for his writing. Professor Gay is an elegant writer and thoughtful reader. I envy his ability to write terrific reflections on his reading.
A few years ago, the evangelical Eugene Peterson wrote a book recommending a list of books for Christians to read. He did a good job. Reading him, I began to think about books I would recommend to other Christians. I wanted to move beyond the usual suggestions of C. S. Lewis or even Dostoevsky.

As a Protestant often too content with our history of bible centralism, I am tempted to begin with books about the Bible, with a discussion about translations, or with sermons or works on exposition. But other ways intrigue me. Although beginning recommendations for Christian reading might not begin anywhere as in a caucus race into which reading works on philosophy might begin, many entry places seem open for reading from a Christian point-of-view. One might pick from excellent Christian fiction, historical accounts, or biographical works. Church architecture or accounts about liturgy open other doors.

Some scholarly works have broad appeal. Some popular works touch and voice depths of Christian experience. I like reading works that explore in detail aspects of Christian worship, history, theology, witness, and other aspects of our experience. Some works are on the outside boundaries of Christian life. They reflect the fact our society is shaped by Christianity. Others emerge from within particular expressions of Christian communities and tradition. I also like works that come from other religious traditions, even though I read them as a Christian.