Each year we try to pick one book for our EQUIP Top Picks that is geared towards those investigating Christianity. That might be you, or perhaps you are looking for a book you could confidently give to non-believing family or friends.

Ben Shaw’s book is exactly that. The book is warm, relational and engaging. In it, Shaw explores seven reasons why the claims of the Christian faith are worth considering. His tone is humble, and he is honest about his own initial scepticism to Christianity. But it’s also compelling and challenging as he invites the reader to consider the significance of Jesus.

The book is divided into chapters each focused on one reason. These include: because it’s worth thinking through what life is really all about, because Christianity gives a compelling answer to the question “What’s wrong with the world?” and because, if Jesus really did rise from the dead, then it would confirm everything. It’s easy to read and sprinkled generously with anecdotes, but this book is also bold in calling for a response to the claims of Jesus.

What makes it even more powerful is Ben’s own story, which is included as a “P.S.” at the end of the book. In 2019 he was diagnosed with a cancer that would see him enter glory in 2021. In the face of his own death, he writes:

 “I too have had to reconsider Christianity. Having death on my very own doorstep has forced me to do a serious reassessment of my faith, including everything I’ve said in this book.”

Despite the imminent prospect of death, he describes how his faith has not been shaken but he has become even more confident that this “stuff” matters more than anything else in the world. For those of us who also understand that knowing Jesus changes everything, this book is a real gift. I found it deeply encouraging for my own faith and also a brilliant resource to pass on to others.  I suggest buying a few copies and praying for opportunities to put them in the hands of those who do not yet know the Lord.

To coincide with our annual conference, EQUIP Picks are 10 great reads, chosen and reviewed by the EQUIP Women Team for women.

EQUIP22 Picks will be available for a limited time online via our ministry partner, Reformers Bookshop.

A percentage of the sales from books bought via the above link will support our CMS missionary, M.

Meet Jocelyn Loane

Joce is pretty chuffed that her role on the EQUIP Committee is helping select the Top 10 books. She loves reading all sorts of books, and spending time with her husband Ed and their 5 kids. They attend Naremburn Cammeray Anglican Church..