What are the greatest books on Christian discipleship? While the Bible is the ultimate guide to discipleship, countless books throughout history have illuminated the path of following Jesus. Here, we explore 35 of the most influential books on discipleship, spanning from the early church to modern classics, plus an "honorable mention" section.
Each is linked to where it can be found on Amazon (affiliate links may be included), or for free online if available.
Ancient and Early Church Discipleship Books (1st-5th Century)
The Didache - (1st Century)
This early Christian manual provides instruction on Christian ethics, prayer, baptism, and the Eucharist, reflecting how the earliest disciples practiced their faith. It offers a unique glimpse into how the first-century church guided new believers.
On the Apostolic Preaching – Irenaeus (c. 180 AD)
A foundational work on the role of sound doctrine in forming disciples, this book emphasizes the unity of Scripture and the centrality of the Gospel message. It helped shape early Christian orthodoxy and combat heresy.
The Confessions – Augustine of Hippo (c. 400 AD)
Part autobiography, part theological reflection, this classic reveals Augustine’s journey to faith and the ongoing work of grace in the soul. It highlights themes of repentance, prayer, and transformation.
The Rule of St. Benedict – Benedict of Nursia (c. 530 AD)
This guide for monastic life provided a framework for community, discipline, and devotion that influenced Christian discipleship for centuries. It emphasizes humility, obedience, and a balanced life of prayer and work.
The Ladder of Divine Ascent – John Climacus (c. 600 AD)
This spiritual classic outlines 30 steps of spiritual progress toward holiness, focusing on overcoming sin and pursuing Christlikeness. It has remained a foundational guide in Eastern Christian spirituality.
Medieval and Reformation Discipleship Books (6th-17th Century)
The Imitation of Christ – Thomas à Kempis (c. 1418)
One of the most widely read Christian books of all time, this devotional work focuses on inner spiritual growth, humility, and Christlikeness. It has been a guide for countless believers seeking deeper intimacy with God. It powerfully influenced many other thinkers and theologians.
The Christian in Complete Armour – William Gurnall (1662)
A rich meditation on Ephesians 6 and spiritual warfare, this Puritan classic equips believers to stand strong in their faith and fight spiritual battles with God’s strength.
On Amazon - Text version on CCEL
The Book of Common Prayer – Thomas Cranmer (1549)
This liturgical masterpiece has provided prayers, worship structures, and spiritual guidance to millions for centuries. It emphasizes corporate worship, confession, and daily prayer as vital parts of discipleship.
On Amazon (1850 version) - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
Concerning Christian Liberty – Martin Luther (1520)
Luther explores the paradox that a Christian is both "a perfectly free lord of all, subject to none" and "a perfectly dutiful servant of all, subject to all." He argues that true discipleship flows from faith, not works, but that faith inevitably produces good works out of love. This book shaped Protestant understanding of discipleship and Christian living.
On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
Holy Living and Holy Dying – Jeremy Taylor (1650)
This devotional classic explores spiritual discipline, holiness, and preparing for a life of faithful Christian living and a holy death. It’s a guide to spiritual maturity and readiness for eternity.
On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
Pilgrim’s Progress – John Bunyan (1678)
This allegory has helped millions understand the Christian journey of discipleship as a pilgrimage toward the Celestial City. It illustrates the struggles, temptations, and victories of a faithful disciple.
On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
The Practice of the Presence of God – Brother Lawrence (17th Century)
A collection of letters and conversations from a humble monk who discovered the secret of living in constant awareness of God's presence. On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
18th-19th Century Discipleship Books
A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life – William Law (1729)
This influential work has inspired numerous Christian leaders. Law critiques superficial religiosity and advocates for a sincere, disciplined devotion and genuine piety.
John Wesley's 52 Standard Sermons (1771)
These sermons were required reading for Methodist preachers and served as a primary tool for discipleship across thousands of Methodist societies. They emphasize salvation, holiness, and practical Christian living.
Rules of the Band-Societies - John Wesley (1738)
These guidelines provided practical instruction on how to lead small groups focused on accountability, prayer, and personal growth. They were instrumental in the Methodist movement’s emphasis on discipleship, particularly in the class meetings and the bands.
A Plain Account of Christian Perfection – John Wesley (1766)
A seminal work on sanctification and the pursuit of holiness, Wesley’s call to a life wholly devoted to God remains central to Wesleyan and Methodist discipleship. On Amazon - Audio on Youtube - Text version on CCEL
Religious Affections - Jonathan Edwards (1746)
Edwards examines the nature of true religious experience, distinguishing genuine spiritual affections from superficial emotions. He argues that authentic faith transforms both the heart and conduct, providing a framework for self-examination and spiritual growth.
The Training of the Twelve – A.B. Bruce (1871)
A powerful study of how Jesus discipled His apostles, offering insights into intentional disciple-making. This book remains a classic in understanding the relational aspects of discipleship. On Amazon - Partial Audio on Youtube - Text version on CCEL
The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life – Hannah Whitall Smith (1875)
This devotional classic emphasizes trusting Christ fully and living in the joy of His presence. It has encouraged generations of believers to embrace surrender and faith. On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
In His Steps – Charles M. Sheldon (1896)
This influential novel tells the story of Reverend Henry Maxwell, who challenges his congregation to live for one year by the principle, "What would Jesus do?" The narrative explores the profound impact of this commitment on the individuals and the broader community, prompting readers to reflect on the practical application of their faith in daily life.
20th-21st Century Discipleship Books (Modern Classics)
Some of these books are still under copyright, so not all of them will have links to free versions.
Streams in the Desert – L.B. Cowman (1925)
This beloved daily devotional has provided comfort and encouragement to millions of believers during times of difficulty. Its reflections emphasize trust, patience, and perseverance in following Christ.
My Utmost for His Highest – Oswald Chambers (1924)
This daily devotional has inspired millions with its deep reflections on surrender, faith, and living wholeheartedly for God.
The Cost of Discipleship – Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1937)
This landmark book warns against "cheap grace" and calls believers to radical discipleship, even in the face of suffering. It remains a call to follow Christ with courage and commitment. On Amazon
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster (1978)
This book guides believers in practicing spiritual disciplines like fasting, prayer, and meditation. It remains a must-read for those seeking deeper spiritual growth.
The Divine Conspiracy – Dallas Willard (1998)
A deep reflection on the Sermon on the Mount and kingdom living, Willard’s work challenges believers to embrace a life of transformation through Christ. Willard's mentoring shows its influence on the remainder of this list, in the writings of Ortberg, Comer, and Foster.
On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
Disciples Are Made, Not Born – Walter Henrichsen (1974)
A practical guide to making disciples through intentional mentoring, this book has equipped countless believers for discipleship.
On Amazon - Audio on Librivox - Text version on CCEL
Master Plan of Evangelism – Robert E. Coleman (1963)
An essential work on Jesus’ method of disciple-making, Coleman’s book emphasizes relational evangelism and spiritual multiplication. (See my summary of the Master Plan of Evangelism here.)
The Normal Christian Life – Watchman Nee (1957)
A powerful book on living out the life of Christ through faith, this book emphasizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection.
Knowing God – J.I. Packer (1973)
This theological yet accessible book helps believers grow in their relationship with God through a deeper understanding of His character.
The Lost Art of Disciple Making – LeRoy Eims (1978)
In this classic work, Eims provides a practical and biblical framework for personal discipleship. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing believers from spiritual infancy to maturity, drawing from his extensive experience with The Navigators.
The Life You’ve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People – John Ortberg (1997)
This book is a modern take on classic spiritual disciplines, making them accessible for everyday believers. Ortberg explores practices like prayer, solitude, servanthood, and celebration, emphasizing that spiritual growth isn’t about striving harder but about training wisely.
Multiply – Francis Chan (2012)
A call to move from being a disciple to making disciples, Chan’s book emphasizes the importance of relational disciple-making.
Radical – David Platt (2010)
Platt’s book challenges comfortable Christianity with a call to radical obedience to Christ’s commands, and away from American materialism. Recent critiques of this worthwhile book have been primarily motivated by politics and deconstruction.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality – Peter Scazzero (2006)
This book addresses the connection between emotional health and discipleship, emphasizing the need for wholeness in Christ.
The Trellis and the Vine – Colin Marshall & Tony Payne (2009)
A practical guide on building disciple-making church structures (both their helpfulness and their limits) this book emphasizes gospel growth through discipleship.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry – John Mark Comer (2019)
This book may end up as a modern classic. Written in the tradition of Dallas Willard (the title is a nod to a phrase by him), it encourages believers to slow down and embrace discipleship in a hurried, digitized world.
How I Determined Which Books Would Be on the List
There are thousands of books on discipleship, but I focused on selecting books that maximized the following criteria:
Historical Influence – Books that shaped Christian thought and practice across centuries, impacting generations of believers. (With the obvious exception of the most recent ones.)
Biblical Depth – Works that remain rooted in Scripture and provide insight into Christian growth and transformation.
Practical Application – Books that have served as practical guides for making disciples in the real world.
Impact on the Church – Books that have shaped movements, denominations, or large groups of believers in their approach to discipleship.
The list is intentionally broad, covering different eras, traditions, and approaches to discipleship while avoiding works that are primarily focused on theological debates rather than practical Christian living. However, since I am writing from a Protestant Tradition, I've left out some books that were influential specifically in the Roman Catholic tradition.
Honorable Mentions
While the 35 books listed above represent some of the best and most influential, many others have made a significant impact on Christian discipleship. Here are some additional books that deserve recognition:
Ancient and Medieval Christian Writings
On Loving God – Bernard of Clairvaux (12th Century) – A deeply personal meditation on the love of God and how it transforms the believer’s life. (Available here in text & Here in audio)
The Cloud of Unknowing – Anonymous (14th Century) – A mystical guide to contemplative prayer and intimacy with God. (Available here in audio or here in text)
Reformation & Puritan Writings
The Mortification of Sin – John Owen (1656) – A profound and practical guide on how to wage war against sin and live a holy life through the power of the Spirit. (Here in audio and Here in text)
Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices – Thomas Brooks (1652) – A classic on recognizing and resisting the schemes of the enemy in the life of a disciple. (Available here)
18th & 19th Century Classics
Five Checks to Antinomianism - John Fletcher (1771) - Fletcher, a close associate of John Wesley, emphasizes the harmony between faith and works, underscoring the necessity of holiness in the believer's life.
Thoughts for Young Men – J.C. Ryle (1886) – A stirring call for young men to pursue holiness, spiritual discipline, and wisdom. (Available here)
Lectures to My Students – Charles Spurgeon (1881) – A must-read for pastors and church leaders, offering practical wisdom on preaching and spiritual leadership. (Available here)
20th & 21st Century Discipleship Books
Spiritual Leadership – J. Oswald Sanders (1967) – A timeless book on Christian leadership as an act of servanthood and discipleship. (Available here)
Life Together – Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1939) – A classic on Christian community and the shared journey of discipleship. (Available Here)
The Pursuit of Holiness – Jerry Bridges (1978) – A compelling book on developing a life of holiness through God’s grace and personal effort. (Available here)
Desiring God – John Piper (1986) – A book that emphasizes joy in God as a core aspect of the Christian life and discipleship. (Available here)
Not a Fan – Kyle Idleman (2011) – A call for believers to go beyond being admirers of Jesus and become fully committed disciples. (Available here)
Following the Master – Michael J. Wilkins (1992) – A theological and practical examination of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. (Available here)
These books offer a range of perspectives and practical advice for pastors looking to strengthen their disciple-making efforts within the church.
My Own Contribution to the Discipleship Books Available
My own contributions to the American church's literature, are not primarily in a book on discipleship, but a series of booklets that pastors can use to create a clear pathway to use for disciple-making. Click here to read more about my discipleship workbooks.
If you'd like to download an overview of those, and how to use them, please feel free to download this one for free.
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