II. Bibliography--for adult Christians who wish to grow:
The following bibliography's segments correlate to the second half of the KOINOS Do Love (Christian Ministry) seminars. Would you like to see the bibliography that correlates with the first half of the this series?
The Art of Spiritual Direction by W. Paul Jones is a thorough look at spiritual direction, the classic practice of one person helping another discern the presence and action of God in life. Jones, United Methodist-turned-Trappist monk, writes with a full understanding of the history of the church and of human nature. This book is probably most useful for those who are considering becoming spiritual directors though everyone can benefit from his insights.
The Art of Spiritual Mentoring, by
Randy Reese and Keith Anderson, is an introductory book for those who want to
understand the idea of spiritual direction. Although they call it mentoring, the
book is written for evangelicals to familiarize them with the practice of
spiritual direction across the centuries. It’s informative and easy
reading—a good book for pastors who want an intro for practical use.
Holy Listening, by Margaret Guenther,
is a rich and layered look at spiritual direction through the author'syears of
experience companioning others. She provides several rich metaphors for what a
director provides; teacher and midwife are two especially helpful pictures of
what a director offers another while listening to their ‘story.’ Near the end of the
book,
Sacred Companions by David Benner
is an excellent teaching tool for those wanting to explore becoming a spiritual
director. Benner calls our spiritual
growth a transformational journey and offers images such as hospitality and
spiritual friendship at portraits of what a director offers another. His book is
the best and most accessible I know for pastors and those who may be feeling
called to direction.
Shaped by the Word, by Robert Mulholland, is one of the best books I know for moving deeply readers into spiritual formation through self-examination, combined with exploration of the Word of God. His contrast between informational reading vs. formational reading is particularly helpful in a culture where we think information is god. Mulholland challenges us to slow down and engage with the Bible as with the living God, letting the Word speak to us, rather than our mastering the Word.
Gathered in the Word: Praying Scripture
in Small Groups,
by Norvene Vest,
is a useful guide to sacred reading (lectio divina). 'Lectio divina' is a Latin
phrasefor reading the Word slowly and reflectively (as described above in Shaped
by the Word). Vest provides
insight and practical helps for group use of Scripture.
Marva Dawn's Reaching Out without Dumbing Down: A Theology of Worship for This Urgent Time addresses how worship interfaces with a technological society. Dawn, never one to mince words, explores worship from three perspectives: 1) Inside the technological boom and postmodern culture; 2) the idolatries of popular culture; and 3) worship as a subversive act (culturally speaking). This is Marva’s Dawn’s groundbreaking book on worship as more than music in church services.
A Royal Waste of Time is Marva Dawn’s sequel on how Christians can worship in the postmodern culture without sacrificing reverence. She explores worship from the perspectives of: setting limits on media, the church in a consumer culture, preaching and being church by building community and forming character. This is a must read for worship leaders.
Worship Is a Verb: Eight Principles for Transformative Worship,