Journal
Weekly book reviews, essays, and conversations. New here? Start here, browse by series, or find a book A–Z.
Review: A History of Christian Theology by Gerald Bray
Diving into a massive volume!
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Review: 90 Days with the Puritans Series by Stephen Yuille
Taking a look at the new and popular series by Stephen Yuille!
Who Won the Thomas Watson Giveaway? Find Out Now!
The winners are finally being announced!
I'm Giving Away My Thomas Watson Collection (5 Year Anniversary!)
We're celebrating 5 YEARS of Petra Publications with a Thomas Watson GIVEAWAY!
Truth and Total Reality: Why Christianity Is Not Just for Sundays
Episode 2 in our study through Francis Schaeffer's A Christian Manifesto. Last week in Theology in Public Life we covered why the Lordship of Christ covers all of society. This week we go deeper into the foundation: What is truth? Schaeffer argues Christianity is not bits and pieces but Truth about total reality, over against both Pietism that shrinks faith to private spirituality and Materialism that reduces reality to matter and chance.
It's finally here! Thomas Watson Unboxing and First Impressions
They're FINALLY here!
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Preachers with Power: A Deep Dive into Douglas Kelly’s Book
Preachers with Power by Douglas Kelly is one of the most encouraging books on what faithful preaching actually looks like. In this Christian book review, I do a deep dive into Four Stalwarts of the Faith and what modern pastors and laypeople can learn from them.
I'm Addicted to My Phone and It's Destroying My Ability to Think
57% of Americans say they're addicted to their phones. I am too. This isn't just a productivity problem. I realized I couldn't sit with a single thought, I was borrowing opinions from the algorithm, and I'd forgotten how to actually research and wrestle with a book. My phone wasn't just wasting my time, it was atrophying my brain.
Theology in Public Life: Why the Lordship of Christ Covers All of Society
Francis Schaeffer's "A Christian Manifesto" is more than just a book. It lays a foundational diagnosis of the cultural and theological shifts that have shaped our modern world. In this introduction to our new series, we explore who Schaeffer was, the "total reality" of the Christian worldview, and why he believed politics and theology are inseparable.
A Book that Helps you Know the Truth
Looking for a book that throws out garbage theology and replaces it with historical, biblical, orthodoxy? This is it.
Charles Spurgeon Teaches Pastors How to Preach in This Massive Collection
Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon remains a foundational resource for preachers. See the physical edition of this classic text.
Hints and Helps in Pastoral Theology by William Plumer
Another excellent book in our series The Pulpit From the Pew.
The Most Important Book for Pastors
The Ministry of the Word by William M. Taylor This book is a brilliant compilation of who the pastor is and what he is to do. This is also an…
This is Why So Many Christians Feel Something's Missing
Princeton and Preaching: Archibald Alexander and The Christian Ministry by James M. Garretson In our series, The Pulpit From the Pew, we’ve looked at…
Review: The Complete Gathered Gold: A Treasury of Quotations for Christians
A treasury of quotations from every age of the church, sorted by topic. Whatever you're studying or writing on, this book will help you find just the right words.
The Pastor’s Book by R. Kent Hughes
Watch the video review above.
The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work by Faculty & Friends of ‘Old’ Princeton
Old Princeton's faculty and friends on the pastor's call, character and work, and what it means to be called into the ministry.
Ep. 5 With Dr Grant Gordon - John Newton, Wisdom, Practical Advice, and Letters to Young Men
Watch the video review above.
The Pulpit From the Pew
I am so excited to launch our new series, The Pulpit from the Pew! This is a series which will be studying Pastoral Theology. It is my prayer that…
Choosing Between Trinity Psalter and The Sing! Hymnal
Which of these two fantastic hymnals is the best? Watch this video to hear my thoughts! If you would like to purchase either of these hymnals, please…
Why You Should Read the Puritans
Listed down below is the playlist for the series which includes reviews for every book quoted in this paper. Also available is a PDF version of the…
Review: Ore From the Puritans’ Mine
This video continues our series on the value of Puritan writings for modern readers, focusing on. This book is an essential collection of Puritan…
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Review: A Puritan Theology
In this video, we take a look at Joel Beeke's and Mark Jones's A Puritan Theology. You can get your own copy here: https://amzn.to/3PfdF8D
Review: Meet the Puritans by Joel Beeke and Randall Pederson
In this video, we offer a review of "Meet the Puritans" by Joel Beeke and Randall J. Peterson. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested…
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Review: Comfort and Holiness from Christ’s Priestly Work by William Bridge
Comfort and Holiness from Christ’s Priestly Work by William Bridge Do you have a desire to feel comfortable? Do you deeply feel a need to be a good…
Review: A Perfect Redeemer by William Perkins
How can sinners be righteous in God’s Sight? There can’t be a more important question than this. The answer is by grace alone, through faith alone,…
Review: The Blessed and Boundless God by George Swinnock
The Blessed and Boundless God by George Swinnock God is so beyond our comprehension; so beyond what we can fathom (preface, xi, xiii). This is the…
Disciplined Disciple Ep. 4 With Reagan Rose of Redeeming Productivity
In this episode of Disciplined Disciple, I'm joined by Reagan Rose of Redeeming Productivity . We have a great conversation on a wide variety of…
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Review: Freedom from Sin’s Dominion by John Owen
This is one of the most painful books in this series. It is a book which “wounds and heals” as you’ll see throughout the review. Imagine this…
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Review: Gospel Evidences of Saving Faith by John Owen
If you’re anything like me, you’ve doubted your faith at some point. You may even be doubting it now! If you’re asking, “ How do I know if I’m saved?…
Review: Holy Helps for a Godly Life
Holy Helps for a Godly Life by Richard Rogers Richard Rogers (1551–1618) Life: Earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1571 and a Master of Arts degree…
Christians Who Skip Theology Are Missing Everything
Do you struggle to read? This video highlights the importance of reading as Christians. Most of the content of this video was taken from a Sunday…
Your Resolutions Already Broken? Here's What Matters
"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." Some of our New Year's resolutions have already fallen through the cracks. Don't let your spiritual integrity do the same.
Library/Office Tour! (2026)
In this video, we go through what our library is looking like for the new year! If you're interested in purchasing any books in this video, please…
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10 Book Recommendations for the New Year (2026)
Ten books to read in 2026, from Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology and Wise Counsel to Good Tidings of Great Joy.
Reflecting on Our Recent Adventure!
Banner of Truth, a wedding, a night in a Sheetz parking lot, Gospel Fellowship, Grand Rapids, a check engine light, a blizzard and a Thanksgiving with new friends: our eventful trip, and the theme God kept teaching us along the way.
Christmas Meditations with Charles Spurgeon
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Spurgeon opens Good Tidings of Great Joy with three short chapters on the angels' song.
Review: Good Tidings of Great Joy by Charles Spurgeon
Spurgeon believed that Christmas was not something to only be reflected on during the month of December.
Exclusive Tour of RHB with David Woollin
In this video, we get a first-hand look at what RHB is like from the inside. Join us as we walk through the entire facility with David Woollin!
Review: Rules for Walking in Fellowship by John Owen
Life: (p. Viii) “Owen’s extraordinary gifts propelled him to many high-profile positions, especially during the Commonwealth era in England…
The Cure of Unjust Anger
The Cure for Unjust Anger by John Downame (d. 1652) John Downame received his education at Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he received his…
Pastors and Their Critics by Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson
Pastors and Their Critics by Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson Joel Beeke grew up in Michigan where he still resides. He was born into a Christian home…
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Review: Advancing Christian Unity by Anthony Burgess
Throughout the whole book, Burgess turns our attention to God the Father and God the Son as the exemplar model of unity.
Communion: The Blessing Every Christian Needs to Understand
Someone asked, "What even is communion?" Here's what Scripture says it is, who is welcome at the table, the blessings believers receive, and how to come.
Review: Bold as a Lion by Matthew Everhard
A commentary on Proverbs 28:1 for an age of fear: four kinds of fear, five marks of courage, and the courage of Christ. An excellent, well-timed book, especially for men.
Review: Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology by Joel Beeke and Paul Smalley
Beeke and Smalley squeezed their 4,000-page Reformed Systematic Theology into about 1,000 pages, and added study helps that make it a great first systematic for newer believers.
Review: Surviving Religion 101 by Michael Kruger
Written as letters to Kruger's daughter for college students, and a great book for anyone struggling with their faith in a secular setting.
What is Theology?
What is theology? At its core, theology is the study of God, faith, and the truths that shape how we live and believe. In this video, we’ll explore…
Review: Schaeffer on the Christian Life by William Edgar
William Edgar walks through Francis Schaeffer's life and times and his views on the Christian life, from his own personal relationship with Schaeffer.
Review: How To Lead Your Family by Joel Beeke
Overall Summary/review: This book is obviously a very short book (cover), but it also is, as the cover suggests a book that includes Practical advice…
Review: Faith Seeking Assurance by Anthony Burgess
This is a very challenging, convicting, and moving read. This book is going to be added to my list of “recommendations to everyone”.
From Reading to Review: My 10 Step Process for Reviewing Books
How I go from picking up a book to talking about it for 20 minutes on camera: my 10-step process for every review on the channel.
How God blesses the Faithful
What the Lord has been teaching me: how God blesses those who are faithful to Him, and what happens to those who harden their hearts against Him.
Review: Prizing Public Worship by David Clarkson
This is an excellent book and one of my favorites thus far in the series. It is a book that makes you contemplate and check your own heart.
Ep. 3: With My Pastor Dr Todd McCoy - Reading, Revival, Kirk, and More
My pastor, Dr. Todd McCoy, on personal and corporate revival, reading, legalism and liberty, the means of grace, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and knowing God's will.
Review: Contentment, Prosperity, and God's Glory by Jeremiah Burroughs
This book does include a short biography of Burroughs if you are interested in knowing more about him.
Understanding Christology: 5 Book Recommendations
What is Christology, and where should you start? Five of my favorite books on the study of Christ, from short and approachable to dense and deep.
Review: Stop Loving the World by William Greenhill
Extremely valuable when it was published 400 years ago, and still extremely valuable today: Greenhill on how to fight against the love of the world.
Full Uncut Version of Disciplined Disciple Ep. 3
The full, uncut conversation with my pastor, Dr. Todd McCoy, for Disciplined Disciple Episode 3, on revival, reading, the means of grace, the assassination of Charlie Kirk and knowing God's will.
The Disciplined Disciple Ep. 3 Preview!
A two-minute preview of Disciplined Disciple Episode 3, with my pastor, Dr. Todd McCoy, on reading, revival, Charlie Kirk and more.
Responding to Violence: A Scriptural Call to Enduring Faith
How should Christians respond to violence? From Acts 16 and 17: the gospel has always met violent opposition, God is sovereign over our suffering, and we must know the Scriptures and be well read.
Review: Turn and Live by Nathaniel Vincent
This short book is the content of a sermon that Vincent preached at his church. As a result, it reads like a sermon.
Review: The Fading of the Flesh and the Flourishing of the Faith by George Swinnock
The Fading of the Flesh and the Flourishing of Faith by George Swinnock Sometimes in our walk with the Lord we get so caught up in the here-and-now…
The Holiness of God by R. C. Sproul
The Holiness of God by R. C. Sproul (1939–2017) R. C. Sproul wrote over 100 books in his lifetime, this one being among his most popular. In 1965, he…
Reading Theological Books Devotionally
Reading Theological Books Devotionally Reading is gaining knowledge: We must be sure that this knowledge does not puff us up: “To come immediately to…
The Puritans: Their Origins and Successors by Martyn Lloyd-Jones
The Puritans: Their Origins and Successors by Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) Martyn Lloyd-Jones is often referred to “the doctor” because of his…
Review: The Vanity of Thoughts by Thomas Goodwin
This is one of Goodwin’s shortest and earliest books. But despite its very small size, it has a massive value to the reader.
Holiness by J. C. Ryle
Holiness by John Charles Ryle (1816-1900) Born in 1816 into a very wealthy family, Ryle was put into school in Macclesfield at the age of eight. Ryle…
Review: Triumphing over Sinful Fear by John Flavel
The editor of this small book has broken the book into small sections and clear subsections which makes the book very easy to read.
Triumphing Over Sinful Fear by John Flavel
Triumphing over Sinful Fear by John Flavel (1628-1691) John Flavel was born in Bromsgrove Worcershire, the son of a minister who died of the plague…
The Beginner’s Theological Shelf
I’ll be updating the PDF regularly It is very important to a new reader of theology to read a wide variety of topics. This is because it can be so…
Review: The Cure of Unjust Anger by John Downame
This is a very small book (as all the books in this series are), but its value is massive.
Why You Should Read the Puritans
A Tentative Schedule: August 22, 2025 – Introduction August 29, 2025 – The Cure for Unjust Anger by John Downame September 5, 2025 – Triumphing over…
5 Overrated Christian Books
5 Overrated Christian Books Two weeks ago, I released a video called 5 Underrated books. This got me thinking; what are some books that I think are…
Study Bible Comparison
In this video, I do a side-by-side comparison of the ESV Study Bible and the Reformation Heritage Study Bible. If you purchase the Bible(s) from the…
On Personal Holiness and Sanctification
I wrote the following lectures for a Sunday school class on holiness at my church. As you may tell in some cases, it was co-taught with another…
Reformation, Revival Series Finale: Key Takeaways; Final Reflection
Davis L. Moore July 30, 2025 Reformation and Revival Over the last five weeks, we have looked at five different books on the topic of Reformation and…
Underrated Books?
In this video, we talk about 5 underrated books. What are some that weren't included in this video? Listed below are links to both the reviews of the…
Review: The Great Awakening by Joseph Tracy
The Great Awakening by Joseph Tracy This is the final book in our series, Reformation and Revival. You can purchase this book here (this is an…
Review: Wesley and Men Who Followed by Iain Murray
Iain Murray turns from revival in Reformed theology to the Methodist revivals, during the Great Awakening and after.
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Review: Wise Counsel: John Newton's Letters to John Ryland Jr.
In this video, we continue in our series, Reformation and Revival. We take a look at John Newton's Letters to John Ryland Jr., or Wise Counsel. It is…
Wise Counsel: John Newton's Letters to John Ryland Jr.
Wise Counsel Wise Counsel: John Newton's Letters to John Ryland Jr. (John Newton 1725-1807) Growing up, Newton was well acquainted with the slave…
13 Books for Every Christian
In this video, we discuss what 13 books I would recommend to any and every Christian. The Christian Contemplated by William Jay: a. Watch the review…
Review: Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography by Iain Murray
A great introduction to Jonathan Edwards and his works, whether you've read Edwards before or this is the first time you've heard his name.
The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan
John Bunyan was born in 1628 at Elstow, near Bedford, to Thomas Bunyan and Margaret Bentley. His father was a tinker and was poor, but didn’t starve.…
The Existence and Attributes of God by Stephen Charnock
Stephen Charnock wrote the massive and wonderful work The Existence and Attributes of God. For context, he was born in 1628, the son of an attorney.…
The Christian in Complete armour by William Gurnall
This book has stood out as one of the greatest books in Christian literature. Spurgeon said of Gurnall’s work, “it is peerless and priceless. Every…
Review: Revival by Michael Haykin
When selecting resources for this series, I wanted something that could preface the whole series; a book that would cover all of the ideas lightly without missing out on any of the depth of the concepts.
Reformation and Revival
In this series, I’m hoping to cover a wide range of topics and ideas relating to both the Reformation and Revival. My overall thesis for this series…
Puritan Treasures for Today
An overall look at Reformation Heritage Books' Puritan Treasures for Today: beautiful, unintimidating editions of the Puritans, compared with Banner of Truth's Puritan Paperbacks.
Review: Pastors and Their Critics by Joel Beeke
This book is an excellent book for both pastors and congregants (whether you’re a critic or not!)
Review: Finding my vocation by William Boekestein
The book is split into three sections, each with three chapters.
Thoughts on Church: Worship & Doctrine
I had the joy of visiting what will soon be my home church this past Easter. It was a beautiful service, made all the more meaningful by the…
Schuyler Treveris Tuscany Calfskin FY Review
In this video, we take a look at the Schuyler Treveris KJV Tuscany Calfskin with the Full Yapp. It is an absolutely beautiful Bible and one that I will use for many years to come.
How to Remember What you Read
A commenter asked: I have quite a few books but have been kinda paralyzed in reading them because I don’t want to read and forget what I’ve read, so…
Review: The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges
This is one of the sweetest books on Holiness I’ve ever read. It’s short; it reads very easily; it conveys very powerful information about Holiness in a doctrinal and practical way, but very simply.
The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges
The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges (1929-2016) Though there is not very much public information on Jerry Bridges, what we do know helps us to…
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How to Take Notes While Reading
How to take notes while reading Hey man, I’ve been wondering, when reading books, how do you usually go about going through the book, do you take…
Review: God, Technology, and the Christian Life by Tony Reinke
This book was published in 2022 which of course was in this sweet spot between the Covid lockdowns and the real take-off of AI.
How to Read Theology More Consistently
Someone asked how I find the discipline to read so much. Here's how I break a big theology book into a daily plan, and why consistency matters more than quantity.
O Sacred Head Now Wounded
In this Lent season, may we reflect on the following words of O Sacred Head Now Wounded. Soli Deo Gloria! 1 O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief…
Review: The Doctrine and Practice of Holiness by Erroll Hulse
This is an excellent book on the topic of Holiness.
Prayer
Frankly, I’m not quite sure what kind of writing will follow here. But I know that many sources have aligned to point out to me that of late, my…
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Review: Worshiptainment by Matthew Everhard
Where you can buy this book: Paperback: https://amzn.to/3D891Up Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4i0ocOs Kindle: https://amzn.to/4ikBNzX Audiobook:…
Review: Expository Apologetics by Voddie Baucham
This book, as the title suggests is a book about apologetics. Baucham offers us so many helpful insights into how to defend our faith.
Expository Apologetics by Voddie Baucham Jr.
Expository Apologetics by Voddie Baucham Jr. (1969–2025) Voddie Baucham was raised by a single mother and only came to know Christ in his college…
Review: The Christian Race by J. C. Ryle
After Ryle announced his resignation, his congregation wanted a selection of sermons to be published as a memoir of his great work.
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Review: Gospel Assurance & Warnings by Paul Washer
He discusses the fruit of the Spirit and how we as Christians ought to display them. This is how we know if we are truly saved.
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Review: The Gospel Call and True Conversion by Paul Washer
This book offers a lot of practical advice about salvation. What does salvation look like in a true believer?
Review: the Gospel’s Power and Message by Paul Washer
This was one of the first books that I read when I became interested in theology, by the grace of God, and it really helped me to understand the gospel especially the historic reformed and biblical gospel.
God's Providence Amidst Our Fears
Not my usual content, but Psalm 147 spoke to me in a season of doubt, fear and anxiety about the future. Instead of fretting, sing to the Lord.
Books We’re Hoping to Read This Year (2025)
My fiancée and I sat down to talk through what we're hoping to read in 2025: church history, missionary biographies, Witherspoon, Beeke, Berkhof, Lewis, Tolkien and more.
Library/Office Tour 2025
A walk through my library as of 2025: the reference shelves, systematic theologies, Ryle, Traill and Toplady, William Jay, Spurgeon, the biographies, and an awful lot of horses.
10 Book Recommendations for the New Year (2025)
Ten books to read in 2025, starting with the Westminster Confession of Faith and Charnock's The Existence and Attributes of God.
Christmas Live Stream: J. C. Ryle’s Christmas Thoughts
A read-along of J. C. Ryle's Christmas Thoughts, livestreamed on 12/20/24.
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Review: Family Worship
This is a very lovely book about family worship as the title suggests.
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Review: A Man as Priest in His Home
As with most of the books in this series, this is a very short book. But, despite its size, it is full of helpful advice and biblical exhortation.
D.D. ep. 2: Worshiptainment, College, Sanctification, and Personal Struggle With Matthew Everhard
Dr. Matthew Everhard on Worshiptainment, expository preaching and psalm-singing, simple family worship, having children young, finding a "dead mentor," fighting sin, keeping devotions fresh, broadening your reading, and seminary.
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Review: Friends and Lovers by Joel Beeke
Very short, but packed full of helpful biblical thoughts and advice about marriage. It feels like sitting in a counseling session with Beeke.
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Review: The Existence and Attributes of God by Stephen Charnock vol. 2
This is truly a beautiful and helpful set that has been made to last not just your lifetime, but your children’s and grandchildren’s.
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Review: Family Shepherds by Voddie Baucham
Voddie Baucham on calling and equipping men to lead their homes, part of our series What Happened to Manhood?
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Disciplined Disciple Ep. 1: A Severe Mercy With R. A. Moore
The first episode of Disciplined Disciple: R. A. Young and I talk about A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken, a book about beauty, love, conversion and grief, and the friendship with C. S. Lewis behind it.
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Review: Call to Action by Alun Ebenezer
Of course, this book is for young men, but there couldn’t be a better way to begin our series on manhood.
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What Happened To Manhood?
Download a free PDF version of the paper with the button below Davis L. Moore 10/14/2024 What Happened to Manhood? “Be watchful, stand firm in the…
Christian Living
I have a mountain of perfectly useable quotes about Christian living, but I wouldn’t dare approach the subject as a paper topic. I don’t have the…
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Review: A Tender Lion by Bennet W. Rogers
A study of the life, ministry and message of J. C. Ryle, a man who was willing to stand alone for the sake of Christ.
Review: Holiness and Happiness by Britt Stokes
In this video, we take a look at the little book, Holiness and Happiness: The Piety of Isaac Watts by Britt Stokes. Even though it's a very small…
Review: Elizabeth Prentiss by Sharon James
A biography of Elizabeth Prentiss (1818–1878), daughter of Edward Payson and author of Stepping Heavenward and the hymn "More Love to Thee."
Review: The Existence and Attributes of God vol. 1 by Charnock
Or you can listen to just the audio here: In this video, we take a look at the first volume of the massive work The Existence and Attributes of God…
On Anxiety
On Anxiety R.A. Moore 30 August 2024 I wish I could get it into my head that being anxious is a sin. Jesus forbids it just as expressly as he does…
Review: The Sweet Bond of Christian Love by R. M. McCheyne
The Sweet Bond of Christian Love (A Collection of Quotes from) Robert Murray McCheyne All links to books that are mentioned will be provided below.…
The God of Beauty
I hate that I feel I should begin this with a definition of beauty. We know it when we see it. The kaleidoscope of amber and gold a sunset paints…
Review: The Believer’s Joy by R. M. McCheyne
A short collection of McCheyne's sermons, full of passion for Christ. "The purest joy in the world is joy in Christ Jesus."
What He Has Done
What He has Done Album by Brinson Moore
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Review: God’s Way of Holiness by Horatius Bonar
Or, you can just listen to the audio here: God’s Way of Holiness: Growing in Grace by Walking with God by Horatius Bonar All links to books that are…
Looking Up - Brinson Moore
Brinson Moore is a violinist, guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Written by Brinson Moore Produced by Garrick Moore Cover art by R. A. Moore Guitar -…
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Review: God’s Way of Peace by Horatius Bonar
In this video, we take a look at the wonderful little book, God’s Way of Peace: Overcoming Anxiety by Walking with God by Horatius Bonar. Or, you can…
Summer Shelf Tour
A scattered tour of my summer shelf. I'm hoping to get through the bulk of this if not all of it this summer around my work schedule. What are you…
Today - Brinson Moore
Brinson is a violinist, guitarist, singer, and songwriter Written by Brinson Moore Produced by Garrick Moore Cover art by R. A. Moore Guitar -…
Review: The Smile of Thy Love by Andrew Bonar
In this video, we take a look at the book, The Smile of Thy Love: A Collection of Quotes from Andrew Bonar You can also just listen to this review…
The Best Advice I’ve Ever Received
Some of the Best Advice I’ve Ever Received Davis L. Moore 6/21/24 During my freshman year of college, I was in the university chorale. The professor…
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Review: The Person of Christ by Andrew Bonar
In this video, we take a look at the short, yet valuable, book, The Person of Christ by Andrew Bonar. You can also just listen to the audio here: In…
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A Special Giveaway: The Pilgrim’s Progress!
We’re excited to announce a special giveaway with the Pilgrim’s Progress! A generous viewer has offered to donate a copy of the Pilgrim’s Progress…
Review: The Diary and Life of Andrew Bonar
Journals are my favorite form of biographies, and one of my favorite types of books, which automatically puts this book in my top favorites.
Brief Words on Legalism
R. A. Moore I really didn’t want to write about legalism. Or perhaps it’s more accurate to say I did very much want to write on legalism, but I’ve…
A Summer of Scots Series
You can also just listen to the audio here: A brief overview of some of the great Scottish divines of the 19th century. Our new series, A Summer of…
Review: Union and Communion by Hudson Taylor
In this video, we look at the little book, Union and Communion by Hudson Taylor. You can also just listen to the audio here: Notes on this video:…
Review: Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor
The first chapter, which is only two pages, closes with a sentence that wraps up the whole book wonderfully.
Imagination and Faith
Imagination and Faith R.A. Moore Growing up, I kept a stack of my ten favourite books at the foot of my bed — primarily for ease of access, but also…
Review: How to Exasperate Your Wife by Douglas Wilson
This is a great little book, so I wanted to make a little review to recommend it to you. To watch the full review You can also listen to just the…
Petra Publications Update!
It’s been about three months since our last video, so I wanted to make a video to update everyone on the things that have been added/changed. Thanks…
Redeeming Time
Redeeming Time R. A. Moore We Christians talk about time a lot, which is odd, considering we say we’re not made for it. Few could claim never to have…
On Learning
On Learning R. A. Moore As a college student, I dedicate a lot of thought to the subject of learning. Obviously, I’m pouring a lot of time, energy,…
Review: Strange New World by Carl Trueman
A short, unflinching look at how thinkers and activists redefined identity and sparked the sexual revolution. I agreed with it so much it was painful.
10 Books for the New Year
Looking for new books to read in 2024? In this video, I give 10 book recommendations for the new year. 1. The Westminster Confession: Where to buy -…
Review: Fault Lines by Voddie Baucham
Reading this book is like walking on gravel barefoot. Baucham's blunt, well-researched case against the social justice movement in evangelicalism is, I think, the best book on the topic.
Review: Prayers for the Use of Families by William Jay
Six weeks of morning and evening prayers, 52 more for particular occasions, and the Jubilee memorial of Jay's fifty years at Argyle Chapel. Very biblical, though it has its faults.
The Preeminent Christ by Paul Washer
The Preeminent Christ by Paul Washer (b. 1969) Paul Washer was born in Madrid, Spain on September 11, 1969. He studied engineering at the University…
Review: Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
"Act like men, be strong." A challenging book that points men from start to finish to the one true Man, Jesus Christ. I read it almost in one day, and it cut me to the heart.
Review: J. C. Ryle: Prepared to Stand Alone by Iain Murray
Iain Murray's biography picks up where Ryle's autobiography leaves off. A fitting title for a man who stood against nearly everyone, and an encouragement for any Christian facing trials.
Review: With All Your Heart by A. Craig Troxel
I don't read many modern books, but this one was truly a joy. Troxel shows that the heart, in Scripture, is our mind, our desires and our will, and that all of it belongs to Christ.
All of the "All" Series by Herbert Lockyer
Someone in my livestream asked what's in Herbert Lockyer's "All" series. Here's a quick walk through every volume, and how I use them.
Review: The Autobiography of William Jay
William Jay preached from the same pulpit for over 60 years. His autobiography, written as letters to his children, is warm, personal and full of wisdom on the Christian life and ministry.
Review: Letters of Samuel Rutherford
It took me almost two years to finish Rutherford's letters, and I don't recommend reading it the way I did. Here's the better way, and why every Christian should have this book.
Theological Library Organization: The Method That Sticks
Now that you have a library, how do you sort it? Here's how I sort mine, by category, and why that helps other people find your books and makes downsizing easier.
Review: Puritans and Calvinism by Peter Toon
A short, accessible and very detailed history of the Puritans and Calvinism. Probably the best book on the history of the Puritans that I'm aware of, and extremely affordable.
How to Build a Theological Library for $200
You're new to theology and want reference books on your shelf. Where do you begin, and how much does it cost? Eight kinds of books for the lay reader, for around $200.
How to Tell Sewn from Glued Bindings
A ribbon doesn't mean a book is sewn. Here's how to tell a Smyth-sewn book from a glued one, and why it matters for a library you want to pass down.
Review: A Little Book for New Theologians by Kelly Kapic
Where do you send someone who's new to theology? Not to John Owen's works. This little book on why and how to study theology is a great place to begin.
How to Maintain a Library
The start of a new series on building, organizing and caring for a library, from building one on a budget to telling a sewn book from a glued one.
Review: The Christian Contemplated by William Jay
Thirteen chapters on how a Christian should live: in Christ, in the closet, in the family, in the church, in the world, in prosperity and adversity, in death and in heaven. Like reading only the application of a sermon, and the whole sermon is application.
1 Year Review: Crossway Heirloom Legacy Exclusive ESV Navy Blue Goatskin
After one year of daily use, here are my thoughts on the Crossway ESV Heirloom Legacy Bible Exclusive Edition (Goatskin, Navy Blue).
Review: A Christian Manifesto by Francis Schaeffer
One of the greatest books of the 20th century. Schaeffer on tyranny, government overreach, and when a Christian not only may but must disobey the state. If we had listened when it came out, we'd have avoided a lot of pain.
Review: The Thought of God by Maurice Roberts
Thirty short chapters, each a Banner of Truth magazine article, so rich and full of biblical truth that many could be handed out as tracts within the church.
Library/Office Tour 2023
Here is an updated library tour. My library is nothing crazy, but it has been/is such a blessing to me.
Review: The Works of Robert Traill, Vol. 2
The second volume of Traill's works: sermons on steadfast adherence to our profession, 1 Peter and Galatians, and letters to his family. Worth their weight in gold.
Review: Bishop J. C. Ryle's Autobiography
Ryle's own account of his early life, with Andrew Atherstone's notes, never-before-published photographs and a set of otherwise unavailable early tracts. It's the best biography of Ryle out there.
Review: Bible Doctrine by Wayne Grudem
I've been asked many times whether I'd review Grudem's Systematic Theology. A college class had me read Bible Doctrine, his abridged version, so here are the good things and the not-so-good.
Review: Christianity and Liberalism by J. Gresham Machen
A hundred years old and still painfully relevant. Machen shows from Scripture that liberalism isn't a kind of Christianity at all, but a different religion. Every Christian ought to read it.
Review: The Works of Robert Traill, Vol. 1
A lesser-known Puritan who should be well known. Traill throws you in and immediately you're surrounded by Christ. J. C. Ryle quoted him in nearly every book, and now I know why.
Review: The Valley of Vision by Arthur Bennett
Some 200 Puritan prayers, deep and biblical, edited so you aren't distracted by who wrote them. Maybe the best book of its kind, and a great companion to your Bible study.
Review: The Westminster Confession of Faith
The heart of our Who Were the Puritans? series: what they believed. A look at two Banner of Truth editions of the Westminster Confession, and why I think it's the best confession of faith.
10 Book Recommendations for the New Year (2023)
Ten books that impacted me greatly over the last year, some practical and some academic, all within a biblical and Reformed view.
Review: Institutes of the Christian Religion (1541) by John Calvin
What did the Puritans believe? First, what influenced them: Calvin's own "essentials edition" of the Institutes, translated from the French by Robert White. A classic every believer ought to read.
Who Were the Puritans?
There's a lot of misunderstanding in the church about who the Puritans were. They weren't evil people. Here's where to start learning about them for yourself.
Review: A Way to Pray by Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry gathered Scripture into a form you can pray, from praise and confession to intercession and prayers for particular occasions. It's a devotional book best read on your knees.
Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell
Looking for something shorter than a systematic theology, but with real insight? Animal Farm is a very short, very straightforward book with a lasting warning about freedom.
Review: Thoughts on Public Prayer by Samuel Miller
Samuel Miller's last book is a wise, practical guide to praying in public: its history, its common faults, the marks of a good public prayer, and how to grow in it. Anyone who leads prayer should read it.
Review: A Guide to Prayer by Isaac Watts
A hidden gem on prayer: about 200 pages packed with doctrine, wisdom and practical help. It helped my prayer life tremendously.
Review: Desiring God by John Piper
I've reviewed many books, but never one I didn't like. Here are my concerns with John Piper's Desiring God and its idea of 'Christian hedonism.'
Review: Fanny Crosby: An Autobiography
Fanny Crosby has been one of the biggest influences on my life. I didn't know she had written an autobiography until recently, and I fell in love with it.
Review: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
I hardly ever read fiction, but To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic for good reason. Here are my thoughts, with three cautions for Christian readers.
Review: Faith and Life by B. B. Warfield
Warfield's Sunday afternoon addresses to Princeton students are short, deep and grounded in a text of Scripture. Read one as a devotional or as serious theology; here's why I marked my copy all the way through.
Review: John Adams by David McCullough
When I'm not reading theology, I love American history. David McCullough's John Adams is a phenomenal biography, and it's full of two of the greatest book lovers of their bookish generation.
Review: The Practical Philosophy by R. L. Dabney
Dabney's last book is a full course in Christian ethics, covering the family, marriage, education, civic life, property and truthfulness. Here are my thoughts on its fourth part, applied ethics.
Review: Expository Thoughts on Matthew by J. C. Ryle
The first volume of Ryle's commentary on the Gospels works as both a commentary and an evening devotional. It's clear, rich, true to the text and a joy to read.
Crossway ESV Heirloom Legacy Bible Exclusive Edition (Goatskin, Navy Blue)
This is a review of the Crossway ESV Heirloom Legacy Bible Exclusive Edition (Goatskin, Navy Blue). This is the best Bible I have ever seen/felt!
Review: Knots Untied by J. C. Ryle
Ryle tackles the most disputed questions of his day, from baptism and the Lord's Supper to confession and the Sabbath, and he doesn't back away from saying what Scripture teaches.
What's the Quality of Banner of Truth Books?
Dust jackets, cloth, Smyth-sewing and the one complaint I have. A look at how Banner of Truth books hold up, including a 50-year-old volume that still looks almost new.
Review: Christian Leaders of the 18th Century by J. C. Ryle
Eleven short biographies of the men God used in the great eighteenth-century revival in England, written with Ryle's clear style and his remarkable fairness to those he disagreed with.
Review: The Upper Room by J. C. Ryle
A late collection of Ryle's sermons, lectures and papers, including some of his very best work: Simplicity in Preaching, The Duties of Parents and Thoughts for Young Men.
ESV Study Bible (Cowhide, Deep Brown) Review
Here are some of my thoughts on the ESV Study Bible (Cowhide, Deep Brown). It is a fantastic Bible!
Review: Old Paths by J. C. Ryle
Ryle's Old Paths sets out the doctrines a Christian must believe, and it preaches Christ crucified and risen on nearly every page. Here's why it's essential if you're studying Ryle.
Review: Systematic Theology by Louis Berkhof
After six months of slow, careful study, here are my thoughts on Louis Berkhof's Systematic Theology: one compact volume that covers nearly every doctrine of the faith, with its history and its biblical basis.
Two Great Books for Beginning Readers: The Hiding Place and The Way of Life
Want to start reading but don't know where to begin? Corrie ten Boom's The Hiding Place and Charles Hodge's The Way of Life are two great places to start.
Crossway ESV Reader's Bible 6 Vol. Set
Crossway's ESV Reader's Bible 6 Vol. set is an absolutely beautiful Bible, that will last a lifetime and longer. Here are a few thoughts on it.
Review: George Whitefield by Arnold Dallimore
Arnold Dallimore's two-volume biography of George Whitefield takes its time where other biographies just don't. It was a huge inspiration to me, and I pray it will be for you.
Unboxing The ESV Heirloom Reader's Bible Set
In this video, I unbox the ESV Heirloom Reader's Bible Set in Black Cowhide.
The Life of J. C. Ryle
The Life of J. C. Ryle (Rough Outline) By Davis L. Moore “Little more needs to be said of this volume [Practical Religion] than that it sustains the…