8 Books Every Student Ministry Leader Should Read

There are so many books out there and it can quickly become overwhelming to find one that is worth spending the budget money and worth spending your time. I’ve collected my TOP 10 books that I believe every student & youth ministry leader should read.

These books have helped me think bigger. They have equipped me to lead, serve, and disciple. And they have encouraged me to keep going.

**Disclaimer: There are many more very good books out there.
This is one persons opinion and I know you can learn and grow as a leader by reading other books.

1. Gospel Centered Youth Ministry [written by: Cameron Cole]
   Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry is a very practical philosophy of youth ministry book emphasizing the importance of the gospel.

2. Faith Beyond Youth Group [written by: Kara Powell & Jen Bradbury]
   Fuller Youth Institutes latest books is spot on to consider how we make lifelong disciples and what are we even trying to aim for.

3. Women of the Word [written by: Jen Wilkin]
   This book helps people, not just females but males too, to learn how to read the Bible for themselves!

4. 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager [written by: Kara Powell & Brad Griffin]
   Another Fuller Youth Institute book, this one is to help adults listen to students by asking better questions.

5. 10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) About Christianity [written by: Rebecca McLaughlin]
   This is an apologetics book for students that I believe, is spot on. We get this book to every rising freshmen to help them think deeply about real life situations

6. One-to-One Bible Reading [written by: David Helm]
   *Perfect for Volunteers!
   This is a book to equip your volunteers leaders to read the Bible with teens. It also has a great framework for students to read the Bible as well

7. Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well [written by: Sheila Heen & Douglas Stone]
   This is my non-ministry, non-Christian recommendation. In ministry, you’re going to get positive and negative feedback. This book can help you receive and understand both well!

8. Gentle & Lowly [written by: Dane C. Ortlund]
   Besides the Bible, this is the book I’ve given out the most. It is refreshing and will stir your affections for Jesus.

I hope you use these resources to learn and grow and become an even better student ministry leader. It is good to remember that you may not agree with or apply everything that is written in all of these books. Take what you want and leave what you don't behind—that is okay!

*I am an Amazon affiliate and by purchasing through these links, you help support
my business which allows me to continue to support, encourage and equip you!