Summary of "How To Balance Bible & Theology Books PROPERLY"

Summary of How To Balance Bible & Theology Books PROPERLY

This video addresses how Christians can effectively balance reading the Bible with reading other theology and Christian books. The speaker emphasizes the primacy of Scripture while offering practical advice and frameworks to integrate theology books into one’s study life without neglecting the Bible.

Main Ideas and Lessons

1. Prioritize Daily Bible Reading Above All

The Bible is the foundation and should always be read first and daily.
Scripture is “God’s word,” while theology books are “God’s church” speaking about the word.
Neglecting the Bible leads to spiritual harm; consistent daily engagement is vital.
Any time spent in the Bible yields far greater spiritual benefit than time spent elsewhere.
The love and desire for the Bible should motivate reading other theology books.

2. Aim for a Rough 50/50 Time Split Between Bible and Theology Books

Example: If you read 30 minutes daily, spend 15 minutes on the Bible and 15 on other books.
Alternatively, split reading into two sessions (morning Bible, evening theology book).
This split ensures sufficient time in Scripture while still engaging other resources.

3. Develop a Clear Study Protocol

Define how many books you read at once and how you balance them.
Examples of study protocols:
- Bible only (one book)
- Bible + one theology book (two books)
- Bible + theology book + fiction book (three books)
- Bible + one light theology book + one heavy academic theology book
Typically, reading up to three books simultaneously is recommended to avoid overcommitment.
Swap out theology or fiction books as priorities or interests change.
If overwhelmed, revert to Bible-only reading.

4. Let Bible Reading Guide Your Choice of Theology Books

Identify knowledge gaps or blind spots encountered in Scripture.
Choose theology books that address those gaps and deepen understanding.
Examples:
- Reading Genesis led to reading about covenant theology.
- Reading Romans 1 might lead to books on God’s sovereignty.
- Reading prophetic books might lead to commentaries or books on typology.
Approach Bible study with humility and honesty about your knowledge needs.

5. Choose Theology Books Saturated in Scripture That Point Back to the Bible

Books deeply rooted in Scripture help maintain focus on God’s word.
Recommended categories and examples:
- Puritan works (e.g., Thomas Brooks, John Owen, Richard Sibbes)
- Bible commentaries (e.g., Matthew Henry, John Calvin, John Gill)
- Topical popular theology books (e.g., Gospelshaped Marriage by Chad and Emily Van Dixhorn)
- Sermon transcripts (e.g., Jonathan Edwards’ Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God)
- Christian living books (e.g., The Things of Earth by Joe Riggnery)
- Systematic theology textbooks (e.g., Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion)
- Eschatology books (heavy in Scripture references from Daniel, Revelation, etc.)
Such books form a “full circle” of reading that continually points back to Scripture.

6. Balance “Light” and “Heavy” Reading

Some Bible books or theology works are dense and complex; others are lighter and easier.
Balance heavy, complex reading with lighter, more accessible books to avoid burnout or boredom.
Example: Pair reading Jeremiah (complex) with a lighter book like The Screwtape Letters.
Conversely, reading a narrative Bible book like Matthew might be balanced with a heavier theology book.
Recognize that seasons of life affect your capacity for heavy reading.

7. Use Wisdom and Discretion; Avoid Legalism

These principles are guidelines, not rigid rules.
In some seasons, it’s okay to adjust the balance (e.g., temporarily reading more theology and less Bible).
Always maintain some engagement with Scripture.
Be flexible and return to simpler Bible-focused reading when needed.

Additional Resources Offered by Speaker

Ultimate Reformed Book List A free, curated, categorized, and regularly updated list of quality Christian and theology books available via a link in the video description.
Homegrown Theologian Course A new course designed to help lay Christians build strong study habits for Scripture and theology, aimed at equipping them for leadership and deeper knowledge. The course is currently offered at 50% off for a limited time.

Speakers / Sources Featured

Primary Speaker / Presenter Unnamed individual presenting practical advice on balancing Bible and theology book reading (likely the video creator).
Referenced Theologians and Authors
- Charles Spurgeon (quote: “Visit many good books, but live in the Bible”)
- Thomas Brooks (Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices)
- John Owen (Mortification of Sin, Gospel Ministry)
- Richard Sibbes (The Bruised Reed)
- Samuel Renahan (The Mystery of Christ)
- Matthew Henry (commentaries)
- John Calvin (commentaries and Institutes of the Christian Religion)
- John Gill (commentaries)
- Chad and Emily Van Dixhorn (Gospelshaped Marriage)
- Jonathan Edwards (Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God)
- Joe Riggnery (The Things of Earth)
- C.S. Lewis (The Screwtape Letters, The Last Battle)

Summary

The video encourages Christians to keep the Bible central in their reading habits, use theology books to supplement and deepen understanding, develop a manageable reading protocol, and balance reading complexity wisely—all while maintaining flexibility and humility in their study journey.