It's that time of year again (hard to believe) where I list the best books I've read this year. These books are, in my opinion, worth commending. Good books should cause us to pause, reflect, pray, or even worship. Additionally, a good book is also one that provides new ways of thinking on old subjects.

The books on this list did just that and are worth of commending.

A few things to note before we see the list. First, these are not books that were necessarily published in 2025. These are just some of the standout books I read this year. Second, the list reflects my own interests and will tend toward theology (which is what I read most). Third, just because a book made the list doesn't mean I agree with everything in it. I chose the books that were most memorable, impressive, thoughtful, challenging, and insightful.  Fourth, the books are not "ranked" but simply listed in no particular order. Lastly, this year I've decided to include a "Book of the Year."

With all that prefatory stuff behind us, let's get into this list, shall we?

J. Alasdair Groves & Winston T. Smith, Untangling Emotions

Book of the Year. This book is outstanding–lucid, learned, and easy to read. I walked away learning more than I bargained for with respects to emotions, even learning what emotions actually are and how to identify them. This is a must read for pastors, parishioners, and discipleship leaders. 

I don't think anyone has influenced my thinking more about ministry and the gospel than Tim Keller. This book, a close runner-up for Book of the Year, almost perfectly distills the best of his teaching and writing. If you want a go-to book on what Keller thought, taught, and wrote about a specific subject, look no further. 

I loved reading this book or should I say, collection of prayers. I could relate to O'Connor in so many ways, and she gave voice to some deep feelings I had. I finished it and wanted to pick it up again almost immediately. 

This is, up to this point, the best and most comprehensive book on pastoral theology I've ever read. I try to read a couple of books a year on pastoral ministry. Murphy's book is the best of its kind–systematic in his approach, readable, and convicting. Every pastor should read it.

I read this book when it first released back in 2016 and I thought it was good, but having read it this time around with more ministry (and life) experience under my belt, I must say that this is probably the best book on the gospel I've ever read. Simply phenomenal. One thing to note. I read The Marrow of Modern Divinity while working on my M.Div. Do you need to read it to read Ferguson's book? Not necessarily, but it will help give some context. 

I read other books this year (still reading, actually), but these are the standouts. Take up and read!

Rev. Mike Hernández serves as the senior pastor of Crossroads Presbyterian Church. He is a graduate of Trinity International University (B.A.), Knox Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) at Reformed Theological Seminary Orlando. He has writes regularly for Gospel-Centered Discipleship and is a member of the National Association of Scholars.

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