Changing My Mind: A Skeptical Professor Meets a Surprising God | Molly Worthen

In this book, Timothy Keller tackles various doubts and objections to Christian faith, such as the existence of suffering, the exclusivity of Christianity, and the role of science. He uses literature, philosophy, real-life conversations, and reasoning to explain how faith in a Christian God is a soundly rational belief. The book is divided into two sections: 'The Leap of Doubt,' which addresses common objections, and 'The Reasons for Faith,' which presents arguments for Christian belief.

The trilogy consists of 'Out of the Silent Planet', 'Perelandra', and 'That Hideous Strength'. It follows Dr. Elwin Ransom, a philologist, as he is kidnapped and taken to Mars (Malacandra), then to Venus (Perelandra), and finally back to Earth. Each book explores themes of good vs. evil, free will, and the cosmic hierarchy, drawing parallels with biblical narratives and classical mythology. The series delves into spiritual warfare, the nature of sin, and the struggle between personal ambition and moral integrity.

N. T. Wright's "The Resurrection of the Son of God" is a comprehensive theological and historical study of the resurrection of Jesus. It delves into various interpretations and critiques of the event, examining the historical context and the significance of the resurrection for Christian faith. Wright meticulously analyzes biblical texts and scholarly perspectives, offering a robust defense of the resurrection's historicity. The book challenges traditional views and proposes a fresh understanding of the resurrection's implications for the present and future. It's a landmark work in New Testament scholarship, influencing discussions on the nature of faith and the historical Jesus.

Plutarch's Parallel Lives is a series of biographies of famous men, arranged in tandem to illuminate their common moral virtues or failings. Written in the late first century AD, it offers insights into the character and actions of notable figures from Greek and Roman history. By comparing the lives of individuals such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, Plutarch explores themes of leadership, virtue, and the influence of character on destiny. The biographies are not mere historical accounts but aim to provide moral lessons and reflections on human nature. Plutarch's work has had a lasting impact on Western literature and thought, influencing writers, philosophers, and political thinkers for centuries. His detailed portrayals and insightful comparisons continue to make Parallel Lives a valuable source for understanding the complexities of human character and the lessons of history.