With so many books on Reformed Theology, it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few. However if we had to recommend just a handful that every new Reformed Christian or those who are curious about Reformed Theology should read here they are (scroll down to see our recommendations).
If you’re looking for just a basic intro/overview, R.C. Sproul’s book “What is Reformed Theology“, is probably your best bet. If you’re looking for meatier, more rewarding (not that Sproul’s book won’t be rewarding), then we suggest either Bavinck’s “Wonderful Works of God” or Calvin’s “Institutes of Christian Religion“. Calvin’s “Institutes” will be more extensive of the two but will prove to be more valuable as you work through it.
We’ve also included Sproul’s “Chosen by God” because it’s a profound book that helps you understand God and predestination better as scripture presents it, which is a solidly Reformed position.
Chosen by God – R.C. Sproul
Because of the widespread neglect of this doctrine, many people cite Chosen by God not only as their introduction to Dr. R.C. Sproul’s teaching, but also as the resource that profoundly shifted their attention to an understanding of the predestining grace of God. Dr. Sproul shows how election is entirely compatible with human freedom, dignity, and responsibility. One of Ligonier’s most significant and popular books, Chosen by God shows why all serious Christians cannot afford to ignore this important biblical doctrine, but instead should embrace God’s initiative in Salvation.
What is Reformed Theology – R.C. Sproul
What Is Reformed Theology? is an accessible introduction to a set of beliefs and concepts that have been immensely influential in the evangelical church. In this insightful book, Dr. R.C. Sproul walks you through the foundations of the Reformed doctrine and explains how the Reformed belief is centered on God, based on God’s Word, and committed to faith in Jesus Christ. Dr. Sproul explains the five points of Reformed theology and makes plain the reality of God’s amazing grace.
Wonderful Works of God – Herman Bavinck
The Wonderful Works of God remains one of the finest single-volume systematic theologies ever written. Adapting the magisterial systematic theology found in his four-volume Reformed Dogmatics, this is perhaps Bavinck’s most eminently practical work a single, accessible volume for the college classroom and the family bookshelf. Previously published in America as Our Reasonable Faith, this book has had a deep and lasting influence on the growth and development of Reformed theology. It is the publisher’s hope that in its new form, this book continues to astonish readers with the wonderful works of God, and provide a deeper knowledge of their Triune God.
Institutes of the Christian Religion – John Calvin
This book was written as an introductory textbook on the Protestant faith for those with some learning already and covered a broad range of theological topics from the doctrines of church and sacraments to justification by faith alone. It vigorously attacked the teachings of those Calvin considered unorthodox, particularly Roman Catholicism, to which Calvin says he had been “strongly devoted” before his conversion to Protestantism. The over-arching theme of the book—and Calvin’s greatest theological legacy—is the idea of God’s total sovereignty, particularly in salvation and election.