Jordan Raynor (Host of the Mere Christians podcast)

The Jesus Storybook Bible, written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago, presents the Bible as a cohesive narrative with Jesus at its center. The book contains 21 stories from the Old Testament and 23 stories from the New Testament, visually bringing Scripture to life for children. It is designed to help children see how Jesus is at the heart of God's story of salvation and how this story intersects with their own lives. The book is suitable for children up to 6th grade and is often used in church ministries and Sunday schools.

In "The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness," Timothy Keller delves into the concept of pride and its destructive effects on human life. Keller argues that pride is not merely a moral failing but a fundamental distortion of our relationship with God and others. He explores how pride leads to self-centeredness, isolation, and a lack of genuine joy. The book offers a compelling case for the transformative power of humility and self-forgetfulness, suggesting that true freedom comes from surrendering our ego and embracing a life of service. Keller's insights are rooted in both theological and psychological perspectives, providing a comprehensive understanding of pride's impact on our lives.

The Road Less Stupid is a business guide that emphasizes the need to minimize dumb decisions and maximize critical thinking. The book, written by Keith J. Cunningham, highlights the concept of 'dumb tax' – the financial and emotional costs of making poor business decisions. It advocates for regular 'Thinking Time' to reflect on business challenges, separate problems from symptoms, and make informed decisions. The book is structured with short chapters and reflective questions to help business owners improve their decision-making skills and avoid costly mistakes.

In 'All Things New,' Brian J. Tabb presents Revelation as a culmination of biblical prophecy, drawing heavily from Old Testament imagery to illustrate themes of judgment, salvation, and restoration. The book is structured around key biblical-theological themes, including the triune God, Christ's followers and foes, and God's word. Tabb argues that Revelation is not just about the end times but serves as a guide for living faithfully in the present.

In 'Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life', Steve Martin provides a detailed and candid account of his journey from his childhood to his rise as a stand-up comedian. The book delves into his early jobs at Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, his development as a magician and comedian, and the struggles and successes he faced in his career. Martin also explores his strained relationship with his family, particularly his father, and how he eventually reconnected with them. The memoir highlights the dedication, discipline, and originality that defined his career and explains why he chose to leave stand-up comedy in 1981 to pursue other creative ventures. The book includes photographs and offers a unique insight into the life of one of the most iconic comedians of his time.

Khalil Gibran's "On Marriage" is a poetic reflection on the nature of love and partnership. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining individuality within a relationship while fostering mutual support and understanding. Gibran's lyrical prose explores the complexities of love, urging couples to nurture both their individual growth and their shared connection. The piece is known for its evocative imagery and timeless wisdom, offering a profound meditation on the dynamics of intimate relationships. It continues to resonate with readers seeking guidance on navigating the challenges and joys of marriage.

Jerry Sittser's "The Will of God as a Way of Life" offers a practical and insightful approach to understanding God's will. The book challenges the common misconception that God's will is a predetermined future path, instead emphasizing present obedience and trust in God's guidance. Sittser explores biblical teachings to show how God's will is revealed through daily life and actions. He encourages readers to focus on living a life of faith and obedience, rather than seeking a specific, preordained plan. The book provides comfort and direction for those struggling with uncertainty about their future, offering a framework for making decisions aligned with God's purpose. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of God's will in their lives.

In 'Every Good Endeavor,' Timothy Keller explores the biblical perspectives on work, addressing questions such as the purpose of work, finding meaning in a competitive workplace, and staying true to one's values while advancing in a career. The book is divided into three parts: God's plan for work, our problems with work, and the Gospel and work. Keller emphasizes that work is a gift from God and should be approached with excellence, integrity, discipline, creativity, and passion as acts of worship. He also highlights the importance of understanding work through a Christian worldview, which can provide a foundation for a thriving professional and balanced personal life.

In this profoundly moving memoir, Paul Kalanithi chronicles his transformation from a medical student to a neurosurgeon at Stanford, and finally to a patient confronting his own mortality. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at 36, Kalanithi grapples with fundamental philosophical questions about what makes a life worth living in the face of death. The book is a reflection on the challenge of facing death and the relationship between doctor and patient, written with eloquence and intelligence. Kalanithi's writing delves into his lifelong love of literature and his attempt to connect the sciences and humanities to gain a greater understanding of humanity.

In this book, Reed Hastings and Erin Meyer explore the counterintuitive management culture that has driven Netflix's success. The authors discuss how Netflix's approach, which includes no vacation or expense policies, generous severance for underperforming employees, and a focus on candid feedback, has led to unparalleled innovation and speed. Drawing on hundreds of interviews with current and past Netflix employees, the book provides actionable lessons for leaders on how to build and maintain a highly innovative and adaptable organizational culture.

In "Redeeming Your Time," Jordan Rayner presents a compelling case for a grace-based approach to productivity. He challenges the common notion that relentless self-improvement is the key to success, arguing instead that true fulfillment comes from aligning our lives with God's purposes. Rayner offers practical strategies for managing time effectively, but always within the context of a faith-filled life. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual disciplines and using our time as a gift from God, not as a commodity to be exploited. The book encourages readers to find joy and purpose in their work, viewing it as an act of worship.

Shoe Dog is a memoir that chronicles the journey of Phil Knight as he builds Nike from its humble beginnings as Blue Ribbon Sports. The book is a personal and detailed account of Knight's experiences, from his early days selling Japanese running shoes out of the trunk of his car to the global brand Nike is today. It highlights his relentless work ethic, the challenges he faced, and the key relationships with his partners and employees that were crucial to the company's success. The memoir also touches on Knight's personal life, including his family and the emotional struggles he encountered along the way.