Recommended Reading: August 16-22

If you only read one article from this week, look at Jonathan Storment’s Every Now and Then, A Disciple Break Out, about the faith and actions of Dr. Kent Brantly, he of Ebola fame.

There are lots of other interested article which have been circulating the internet this week which are worth reading as well. I’ve broken them down by category below. As always, if you think there’s something I should be reading, feel free to let me know in the comments below (self-promotion is allowed).

Theology and Religion

Daniel Wallace reflects upon the goal of the Christian life, critiquing from his own life how many American Christians assume that we are called to become Christ-Like.

You should also check out Weep for the Dead by John Mark Reynolds, who delves into the situation in Ferguson with candor and much needed theological compassion. And while you’re at it, please #PrayforFerguson, our new neighbors to the north.

At Conciliar Post, George Aldhizer begins a series examining Christ and Consumer Culture, offering some important thoughts about the need to order human freedom.

On a Dante kick this past week, I found Stephen Webb’s article on Dante’s Heavenly Idealism to be a stimulating read.

Stephen Sutherland delves into the sometimes murky area where faith and politics collide, asking if Christians Should Look Like Satanists. (My answer? Probably not.)

Biblical Studies and the History of Christianity

If you need some fall reading material, Tim Henderson suggests five upcoming Biblical Studies/Theology related works that you might add to your reading list.

Michael Kruger reminds us of the importance and value of studying Biblical languages, no matter how busy we are.

Over at Many Horizons Eva asks some important questions about the boundaries of “church tradition” that is worth pondering over.

In case you haven’t noticed already, I am a huge Larry Hurtado fan. Thus, you shouldn’t be surprised when I recommend his article on Writing and Pronouncing the Divine Name in Second-Temple Judaism. Read and learn.

Aaron Renn’s piece on the differences between Protestant and Catholic architecture is also an interesting read.

Worldviews and Culture

Last week we were shocked to learn about Robin Williams’ death, and Ryan Hunter offered some important words on Loss, Depression, and Mental Health. If you are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please talk to someone, anyone at all. Even if you don’t believe in God, please don’t hesitate to visit your nearest church and speak to the clergy there. Caring therapists and doctor-prescribed medication can also work wonders. If you prefer anonymity and are having thoughts of suicide, please feel free to call The Suicide Hotline at 1-800-784-2433. There is someone in your life who loves you.

On a rather different note, Brian Miller reflects upon minimalism and the need for meaningful items (and their connections  to memories and people) in our lives.

Over at Ethika Politika, Luke Foster reflects upon the merits of the Ivies, asking us to consider the place of true education and the pursuit of virtue.

Don’t forget to read Thomas Sowell’s latest Random Thoughts on a passing scene. My favorite: “Too many people in Washington are full of themselves, among other things that they are full of. ”

Finally, Brian Brown thoughtfully argues that Harry Potter is Great Literature. A good read if you’ve read the series; not a good read if you’re my wife (who is still finishing the series).