We are midway through 2025 (crazy, right?) and so far I've read some books that are definitely worth commending. A good book, in my opinion, is one that causes me to pause, reflect, pray, or even worship. Additionally, a good book is also one that provides new ways of thinking on old subjects. What you will find below are some books that I've read this year that are worth checking out.

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've read so far 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. Lastly, the books are not "ranked" but simply listed in no particular order.

So, here they are:

Joe Rigney, Leadership and Emotional Sabotage: Resisting the Anxiety That Will Wreck Your Family, Destroy Your Church, and Ruin the World

This book is outstanding. Not only do I enjoy Rigney's writing style, but I especially appreciate what he does in reimagining the concepts popularized by Friedman, who I've read before, and giving them a (more) biblical and theologically orthodox framework. This is a must read for senior pastors, especially those familiar with systems theory. 

I've owned this book since its release, but never picked up to read until recently. In fact, it's the only Keller book I owned and had not read (I think I've read everything else he's written). I regret waiting as long as I did. I began reading, not only to prep for a series on prayer, but more so for my own prayer life. I wanted to deepen it, and this book helped immensely. I reminded of important truths about prayer and infused me with new ways to pray. I'm grateful for this book and its author. Keller was a gift to the church, and this book is one of the many he gave to Christ's body. 

I love the Puritans. I love reading them and reading about them. This was a simple introduction about who they were, what they believed, how their thought impacts believers today, and even included short bio's on some more well-known puritans like Sibbes, Bunyan, and Edwards. If you want a good intro to the puritans, look no further than this volume.  

Snyder's book really did clear up misconceptions and shed light on some things we simply tend to overlook about Jews in scripture. I appreciated his friendly tone and pastoral heart. If you have a Jewish friend you're trying to evangelize, given them this book. 

For every series I preach, I read a book on the book of the Bible I am preaching through that is not a commentary. For example, when I preached through Revelation, in addition to the four commentaries I consulted, I read Brian Tabb's excellent book All Things New: Revelation As Canonical Capstone (NSBT). I did the same thing as I preached through Esther. Gregory's book proved to be a vital addition to my study. He was engaging, well-researched, and pastoral. Anyone preaching through Esther should consider it.

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

Rev. Mike Hernandez 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 written for Gospel-Centered Discipleship and is a member of the National Association of Scholars.

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