Authors

I can not pick a favorite author of mine. I used to think I had a favorite author--until I realized that they keep changing.

I've learned that favorite authors are seasonal. Last year at this time I was thoroughly involved with Goodwin. 'Surely no one could speak to me as Goodwin does!' I claimed. Then I found Martyn Lloyd Jones and I very accutely appreciated the simplicity in which he conveyed big spiritual truths. 'Surely he is my favorite author now!' I pronounced.

Then last week I returned to Spurgeon who throws gems left and right so that I can not help but walk away from him feeling rich. He's a son of consolation. Right now Spurgeon's my favorite. I can't get enough of him. I'm scouring the internet for details of his life. I'm hunting for another fantastic biography of his to devour. He's occupying a lot of my thoughts. I wish I could speak to this servant right now. Such a kinship I feel with him.

So, I don't think I have a favorite author. Sometimes I need a lot of meat to chew on. Sometimes I just need an encouraging word. Sometimes I need to keep it simple. Sometimes I need to feel a little more connected to Christians across the globe. I'm always picking up somone different.

The great Puritan theologian, John Owen once remarked how he longed to preach in the same manner as John Bunyan--with poetic and flowery words. To which, Spurgeon offering this exhortation to a saint who has long joined Christ in heaven a bit before Spurgeon was even born:

"No, Dr. Owen, you had better remain Dr. Owen, for we could by no means afford to lose that mine of theological wealth which you have bequeathed to us. You would have looked very awkward if you had tried to talk like the marvelous dreamer, and he would have played the fool if he had imitated you. It is pitiful to hear comparisons made between the different servants of the same Lord."

And that's exactly a part of the beauty in the church--the diversity of gifts. When I need to read Thomas Goodwin, I want to hear Thomas Goodwin. When I need Spurgeon, I want to hear Spurgeon. I need the wisdom of both of these men (and many more). I need each of their individual gifts to the church. I really cannot elevate one above the other. God used them both mightily--for the benefit of His saints. There are no favorites in the kingdom of God. Each has its place. And so it is with the individuals who sit on my shelves. I love them all for exalting Christ. I love them each for their own style in doing so.

Oh, may God give the increase!