So we’re clear: there are affiliate links in this post. I don’t make recommendations unless I fully support them, and no one has ever dropped off a sack of cash at my house. Although, I wouldn’t mind that if they did. Ten percent of the nickels earned go to God as a rule.
Christian classics have withstood the test of time, offering profound insights and powerful narratives that continue to inspire and instruct. These works provide a unique perspective on Christian spirituality, theology, and worldview, making them an invaluable resource for parents looking to instill Christian values in their kids. They’re not just for adults, though. These classics can be a source of inspiration and learning for kids as well.
The Importance of Christian Classics
Christian classics are not just books; they’re timeless treasures that hold invaluable wisdom and teachings about faith, spirituality, and life. These works are the result of deep spiritual journeys, profound theological insights, and transformative experiences. They offer a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that can guide us in our spiritual journey and help us navigate the challenges of life.
For parents, these books can provide guidance on raising kids with strong Christian values. They offer insights into human nature, moral values, and spiritual truths that can help shape a child’s character and worldview. For kids, these books can offer inspiring stories, valuable lessons, and relatable characters that can strengthen their faith and enrich their understanding of Christianity.
Top Christian Classics for Parents and Students
Below is a short curated list of Christian classics that have left a significant impact on Christian thought and spirituality. These books offer a wealth of wisdom and insights for both parents and kids.
Confessions by St. Augustine
St. Augustine’s Confessions is a profound work that chronicles the saint’s spiritual journey. Written in the form of a prayer to God, this book offers a deeply personal account of Augustine’s struggles with sin, his conversion to Christianity, and his reflections on God’s grace. It’s a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and God’s love.
This is a book that is required reading in our school’s eleventh grade curriculum.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
This book serves junior and senior high schoolers well.
Lewis’ work serves as a compelling argument for the Christian faith, aimed at skeptics and believers alike. The book unpacks core Christian doctrines, utilizing reason and logic to make a case for faith. It stands as an essential guide for understanding the rational basis of belief in God, offering deep insights into ethics, morality, and the nature of faith itself.
If you are looking for something a with a bit more bite from Lewis, I do recommend Miracles, which showcases Lewis at his strongest as a defender of the faith.
How Should We Then Live by Francis Schaeffer
This one if for the adults, but senior high students will wrestle with Schaeffer and benefit.
Schaeffer’s book is an exploration of philosophy, culture, and Christianity through the lens of history. The book critically examines how worldviews have shaped the Western world and argues for a return to a Biblical perspective as the solution to societal decline. It serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the relationship between faith and culture, challenging readers to reconsider how their beliefs inform their actions.
The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan
John Bunyan’s classic is an allegorical tale that depicts the Christian journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. The story’s protagonist, Christian, encounters various obstacles and temptations along his journey, providing valuable lessons about faith, perseverance, and salvation.
This is an interesting one to see high school students wrestle with.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
This seven-book series that interweaves fantasy, theology, and morality into a rich narrative tapestry. Centered around the magical land of Narnia, the series explores themes of good versus evil, redemption, and the transformative power of faith. Aimed at both children and adults, these stories serve as allegorical tales that invite readers to reflect on the deeper truths of Christianity while enjoying an enthralling adventure.
Why Parents Should Read Christian Classics to Kids
Reading Christian classics to kids can have several benefits. For one, these books can help instill Christian values in kids from a young age. They can provide kids with a deep understanding of Christian principles and teachings, helping them to grow in their faith. Moreover, these books can also stimulate kids’ critical thinking skills, as they grapple with complex theological concepts and moral dilemmas.
How to Introduce Christian Classics to Kids
Introducing Christian classics to kids can be a rewarding experience. However, it’s important to take into consideration the child’s age and comprehension level. For younger kids, parents might want to start with simplified versions or illustrated adaptations of these classics. As kids grow older, they can gradually progress to the original texts.
Christian Classics as Tools for Spiritual Growth
Christian classics are more than just books; they’re valuable tools for spiritual growth. They offer timeless wisdom, profound insights, and practical guidance for living out the Christian faith. By reading these classics, parents and kids alike can deepen their understanding of Christianity, strengthen their faith, and grow closer to God.
The Timeless Appeal of Christian Classics
The timeless appeal of Christian classics lies in their profound wisdom, spiritual depth, and transformative power. Despite being written centuries ago, these books continue to resonate with readers today, offering timeless truths and enduring wisdom that transcend cultural and generational boundaries.
Christian Classics as a Family Tradition
Reading Christian classics can become a cherished family tradition. Whether it’s reading aloud together, discussing the books’ themes and lessons, or reflecting on their relevance to our lives, engaging with these classics can create meaningful family bonding experiences and foster a shared love for spiritual learning.
The Role of Christian Classics in Christian Education
Christian classics play a crucial role in Christian education. They offer rich theological insights, inspiring life narratives, and timeless wisdom that can enrich a child’s understanding of Christianity. Incorporating these classics into Christian education, whether at home or in school, can deepen a child’s faith and cultivate a love for spiritual learning.
The Impact of Christian Classics on Christian Literature
Christian classics have left a significant impact on Christian literature. These works have set the standard for Christian writing, influencing generations of Christian authors and shaping the Christian literary tradition. They continue to inspire and inform contemporary Christian literature, making them an essential part of the Christian literary canon.
The Legacy of Christian Classics
The legacy of Christian classics continues to live on. These books have stood the test of time, their messages remaining relevant and powerful despite the changing times. They continue to inspire, challenge, and transform readers, leaving an indelible mark on Christian thought and spirituality.
Christian classics are an invaluable resource for both parents and kids. They offer a wealth of wisdom, insights, and inspiration that can enrich our spiritual journey, strengthen our faith, and guide us in our quest for a deeper understanding of Christianity. Whether you’re a parent seeking to instill Christian values in your kids, or a child seeking to deepen your faith, these classics are a must-read.
Parenting with Truth and Grace 
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