24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:24–27 ESV)
There are but a handful of authors, secular or sacred, in whom I always read their books or articles. Whether for personal enjoyment, or greater knowledge and insight regarding a particular theological subject, I am never disappointed in their efforts. These include Louis L’Amour, Robert B. Parker, John MacArthur, R. C. Sproul, J. I. Packer, the Reformers, the Puritans, J. Gresham Machen and Francis Schaeffer. Last, but certainly not least, is Jerry Bridges.
Jerry Bridges (1929-2016) was an evangelical Christian author, speaker and staff member of The Navigators; an evangelical publishing company of devotional books and Bible studies. Based in Colorado Springs, CO, the Navigators specialize in small groups and one on one mentoring.
Jerry spoke at various Bible conferences and also served as an adjunct professor at Grace Theological Seminary. It was while I was a doctoral student at Grace that I had Jerry as a professor.
Jerry’s primary and prolific contribution to the evangelical church were his many books. Winsome, witty, insightful and openly honest are some of the adjectives describing Jerry’s writing. He never shied away from the tough topics, and never lost his grounding in the inspirited and inerrant Word of God. Here is brief list of Jerry’s publications.
- The Pursuit of Holiness, NavPress (1978) ISBN 0-89109-430-X
- The Practice of Godliness, NavPress (1983) ISBN 0-89109-497-0
- Trusting God, NavPress, 1991, ISBN 0-89109-617-5.
- You Can Trust God, NavPress, 1991, ISBN 0-89109-571-3.
- The Crisis of Caring: Recovering the Meaning of True Fellowship, P & R, 1992, ISBN 0-87552-110-X.
- Transforming Grace, NavPress (1993) ISBN 0-89109-656-6
- The Joy of Fearing God, Random House (1999) ISBN 1-4000-7064-3
- I Exalt You, O God: Encountering His Greatness in Your Private Worship, Random House (2000) ISBN 1-57856-421-2
- I Give You Glory, O God, Random House (2002) ISBN 1-57856-629-0
- The Chase: Pursuing Holiness in Your Everyday Life, NavPress (2003) ISBN 1-57683-468-9
- The Gospel For Real Life, NavPress (2003) ISBN 1-57683-507-3
- Growing Your Faith: How to Mature in Christ, NavPress (2004) ISBN 1-57683-475-1
My personal favorite is The Pursuit of Holiness. It was the first of Jerry’s books I bought. My reason was not exactly spiritual in purchasing it. I am a recreational runner and there was a picture of a runner on the front cover of my copy. I was initially intrigued and as I read it, thoroughly challenged.
My wife and I have led small group studies with Jerry’s materials; particularly on the subject of Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts and Respectable Sins. Jerry’s writing always contains solid biblical doctrine balanced with practical application.
I encourage you to take up and read anything written by Jerry Bridges. You will be blessed. Read well!
Soli deo Gloria!
His Word Today 