What are you reading?

In my interactions with some younger pastors, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend. These men have an idealized picture of ministry, and, frankly, it's unrealistic. It’s as if they want to pastor a different congregation than the one they currently have.

Now I know that we want to see growth and transformation among those that we’re called to shepherd. That’s right and biblical. But what I’m observing is a desire to press “their” church into a mold that fits with the approval of their theological heroes. They probably have never even met these heroes, yet it’s as if they’re striving for their approval.

One of the main causes of this type of desire, I believe, is limiting one’s reading and listening to just a few select authors from one select tribe. Reformed guys only reading/listening to reformed authors. Fundamentalists only reading/listening to other fundamentalists, etc.

This brings great comfort but encourages mental laziness. It’s like the CEO who fills his board with “yes” men. He’s never challenged, but he misses out on perspectives that could cause explosive growth in his company.

My plea is simply this: Read Widely!

Reading widely forces us to think. It forces us to grapple with different ideas. It challenges our assumptions and can deepen our convictions. It causes us to use different mental muscles than simply the “I agree” one. It should also help us to better understand and communicate with those with whom we disagree.

If you always read dead authors, read a living one.
If you always read the classics, read one from today's bestsellers list.
If you always read nonfiction, read a fictional book.
If you always read modern books, read a classic one.
If you always read the same author, please read someone else!
If you are reformed, read someone who is not.
And don't forget to read other genres. If you always read theological books, read one on business, hiking, or woodworking (your choice).

I have read across theological perspectives and in different genres for years, and it has paid me back with huge dividends.

I like reading J. C. Ryle and Chuck Swindoll. I love Rick Warren’s latest devotional (even though I disagree with Rick on some theological points, he’s a master communicator, and I have learned much from him). My shelves (and Kindle) are filled with works by different authors.

In my younger days of ministry, they used to tell us to read like you’re eating fish - eat the meat, but spit out the bones! In other words, glean what you can from what you read, and leave that which does not help or is in error.

Here’s what I’m trying to say in a nutshell: Read the Bible first and foremost, but after that, read widely.