On April 20-21, Bethlehem College & Seminary and Crossway cohosted the Theologians on the Christian Life Conference.
John Piper kicked off the conference by answering questions given to him by Justin Taylor. I found the interaction both inspiring and enjoyable as Piper helps listeners understand the important role of biography in the Christian life.
Piper addresses a similar struggle many people have in reading biography—it can be hard to persevere. I’m convinced this is because many biographies are just poorly written. Therefore, choosing a well written biography is actually more important than choosing any biography of your favorite historical figure at random.
Here is a short list of biographies I have read and recommend:
- Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography by Ian Murray
- George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist (Part 1 & 2) by Arnold Dallimore
- The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones by Ian Murray
- Living by Revealed Truth: The Life and Pastoral Theology of Charles Haddon Spurgeonby Tom Nettles
- Spurgeon on the Christian Life: Alive in Christ by Michael Reeves
- Edwards on the Christian Life: Alive to the Beauty of God by Dane Ortlund
If you are just beginning to read Christian biography, I recommend you start with the Theologians on the Christian Life series. I have found each of the books to be helpful in understanding the personal life & ministry of the theologian while also offering insights into how their view of the Christian life can impact our own. Tolle lege!