A thought in reference to the almost ridiculous quantity of books listed in the last post: some would think I read too much--the rest would probably agree. But to me books (or rather, the ideas they contain) are fuel--kindling. They (as compliments to the Word itself) help increase my view of God and my passion for Him and His kingdom. The view of God and Christ and what it means to be a Christian as typically presented today is not nearly as stirring to me (let alone radically biblical) as is that of Edwards, Spurgeon, Bunyan, Owen, even Piper, etc. The latter has substance, depth--it's nourishing.

As with any fire, though, I must admit that only the right kind of books, and the right number of books, are truly helpful to the fire. The wrong kind will get you nothing but strange fire and toxic smoke. Too few and one would lose so much richness, connection with those saints who have gone before--although I agree that one could probably do very well reading only the Word. But I agree with whomever it was that said "We see much further when we stand on the shoulders of others" --only if those shoulders are sturdy and pointed in the right direction. Too many books, and the fire will be smothered ("...much study is weariness to the bones"). I suppose that's why I so dislike having to spend valuable time reading books such as Courageous Leadership (Bill Hybels), Next Generation Leader (Andy Stanley), Primary Purpose (Ted Haggard), and The Five-Star Church (Stan Toler\Alan Nelson). It's not that they're so bad (maybe it is), but that the opportunity cost of spending time reading them instead is so high. I do not think these are the right kind of books to kindle passion. It's passion and holiness that are contagious and life-giving. None of these books would deny that; to the contrary they would agree. But where they succeed in asserting this, they fail in providing a passion-inducer. They fail in displaying a vision of God that inspires, humbles, satisfies, creates that same passion and longing...instead, they display a picture of successful ministry--which, they subtly imply, means that God must be at work, and therefore must be happy. It is pleasing God by pragmatism* and inference.

And there is a difference, I think--a big one. Powerful personalities and rugged, determined enthusiasm are not lasting alternatives to a passion kindled by the grandeur of almighty Sovereign God. J. C. Ryle, I believe, said "If you want to heat a church, put an oven in the pulpit." Personality warms lightly and briefly; "God-besotted" passion burns hot and long. It's a question of source.

*Note that I believe Christianity and Theology must be practical--but that is not at all the same as being pragmatic.

Just some thoughts.