Can Christians Benefit from Biblically Related Books? A Look at Scripture and the Role of Teachers
It’s not uncommon to encounter believers who feel strongly that the Bible alone should be the source of all our spiritual learning and growth. While it’s undeniable that Scripture is the ultimate and authoritative Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17), the question arises: Can biblically related books by Christian authors also play a valuable role in a believer’s life?
To answer this question, we must turn to Scripture itself and examine what it says about the role of teachers, the use of wisdom, and the broader Christian community.
The Bible as Our Foundation
First, let’s establish a foundational truth: The Bible is the inspired Word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 declares, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." The Bible stands as our ultimate guide, containing everything necessary for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).
However, the Bible also speaks of God’s provision of spiritual gifts and roles within the body of Christ—one of which is the gift of teaching. These roles are intended to build up the church and help believers grow in their understanding of Scripture and their relationship with God.
God's Provision of Teachers
Ephesians 4:11-12 states: "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."
Teachers are a gift to the church, given by God to help believers understand and apply the truths of Scripture. These teachers may use various means to fulfill their calling—preaching sermons, leading Bible studies, or, in many cases, writing biblically based books.
The apostle Paul himself functioned as a teacher not just through his spoken words but also through his letters. These letters were inspired Scripture, but they also demonstrate that God uses human communication to explain, apply, and contextualize His truth.
Similarly, Christian authors with the spiritual gift of teaching write to explain biblical truths, encourage believers, and address specific spiritual questions. Their work can help readers see Scripture from fresh perspectives and apply it more deeply to their lives.
The Biblical Pattern of Learning from Others
The idea of learning from others is deeply rooted in Scripture. Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." God uses the wisdom and insight of fellow believers to help us grow in our understanding of Him.
In the New Testament, Paul encouraged Timothy to "entrust [the things he had learned] to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2). This shows a pattern of passing on biblical truth through teaching—a process that often goes beyond direct Bible reading to include explanation and application.
When Christian authors write books, they are often acting as faithful stewards of this tradition, sharing their understanding of Scripture to encourage and edify others.
What About the Danger of False Teaching?
It’s true that not all books labeled “Christian” are faithful to Scripture. Jesus warned against false teachers (Matthew 7:15), and Paul commended the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true (Acts 17:11).
This means that discernment is essential. When reading any book—whether by a Christian author or otherwise—we must always compare its message to the clear teaching of Scripture. Christian books are not a replacement for the Bible but a supplement that can provide insight, encouragement, and practical applications of biblical principles.
A Biblical Example: Apollos
The story of Apollos in Acts 18:24-28 provides an excellent example of the value of learning from others. Apollos was a learned and eloquent man who taught about Jesus, but his knowledge was incomplete. Priscilla and Aquila, fellow believers, took him aside and explained "the way of God more accurately" (Acts 18:26). Apollos accepted their teaching and went on to become a powerful defender of the faith.
This account shows that God often uses other believers to expand and deepen our understanding of Him. Christian authors can function in a similar way, sharing insights that help us better grasp the truths of Scripture.
Practical Benefits of Christian Books
Clarifying Complex Topics
Some biblical truths are challenging to grasp fully. Christian authors often help break down these concepts, providing examples and explanations that make them easier to understand.Encouragement for the Journey
Reading the testimonies and insights of others can be incredibly encouraging. Books like Watchman Nee’s The Normal Christian Life or Andrew Murray’s Abide in Christ have strengthened countless believers by pointing them to Christ’s sufficiency.Addressing Specific Issues
Books on topics like prayer, discipleship, or dealing with suffering can offer practical guidance rooted in Scripture.Global Access to Wisdom
Not every believer has access to in-person teachers or mentors. Christian books extend the reach of gifted teachers to believers around the world.
A Balanced Approach
While Christian books are valuable, they should never replace personal Bible study or the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Instead, they should drive us back to Scripture with greater enthusiasm and insight. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
When reading Christian books, consider the following questions:
Does this book align with Scripture?
Does it deepen my love for God and His Word?
Does it encourage me to grow in Christlikeness?
Conclusion: Learning in Humility
God has given us His Word as the ultimate authority for our lives. But in His grace, He has also provided teachers—both past and present—to help us understand and apply its truths. Rather than viewing Christian books as distractions, we can see them as tools God uses to sharpen our understanding, encourage our hearts, and draw us closer to Him.
As you read and grow, let your primary focus always remain on Christ and His Word. Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and approach every book with discernment, humility, and a desire to glorify God.