Tools
Study tools built to help you read more carefully, not argue louder.
Bible Translation Comparison
Compare translations side by side, with context notes that explain what changed and why. Built for beginners who want real definitions and clean explanations.
- •Side-by-side verse comparisons
- •Translation philosophy notes in plain English
- •Authorship and book context summaries
- •Fast lookup for commonly searched passages
Get Notified When Resources Launch
Join the email list to receive new study tools, devotionals, and theological resources as they become available.
Scripture text is displayed for study and comparison. Translation rights remain with their respective owners and licensors.
Christian & Gay Theology Library
Books I have read, studied, or currently have in my theology library while working through Scripture, LGBTQ+ inclusion, same-sex marriage, hermeneutics, and Christian faith.
This list includes affirming, non-affirming, and neutral or foundational books. Inclusion on this list does not mean I agree with every author or every argument. Some books are listed because they helped me understand affirming theology. Others are listed because they represent traditional or non-affirming arguments that need to be engaged honestly. The goal is not to create an echo chamber, but to study faithfully, think clearly, and keep pointing people back to Jesus.
Download the Full Theology Library PDF
All 79 books in a print-ready reference guide.
79
Total Books
20
Affirming
7
Non-Affirming
52
Neutral / Foundational
Affirming
Books that explicitly support LGBTQ+ inclusion, same-sex covenantal relationships, same-sex marriage, transgender inclusion, or theological frameworks that affirm LGBTQ+ Christians in the life of the church.
Non-Affirming
Books that reject same-sex marriage or same-sex sexual relationships as biblically faithful, including Side B, Side Y, celibacy-based, and traditionalist arguments.
Neutral / Foundational
Books that are relevant for biblical interpretation, hermeneutics, theology, church history, sexuality background, spiritual formation, prayer, discipleship, or Christian thought, but do not primarily argue for or against LGBTQ+ affirmation.
Tap or hover a card to see its description and Amazon search link. Scroll each row to browse all titles.
Affirming
(20 books)Books that explicitly support LGBTQ+ inclusion, same-sex covenantal relationships, same-sex marriage, transgender inclusion, or theological frameworks that affirm LGBTQ+ Christians in the life of the church.
Scripture, Ethics & the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships
Karen R. Keen
2018 · Eerdmans
Scripture, Ethics & the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships
Karen R. Keen
Biblical Studies / Ethics
An affirming biblical and ethical argument for same-sex relationships, examining Scripture through historical-critical and canonical lenses while engaging traditional interpretations.
The Word of a Humble God
Karen R. Keen
2022 · Eerdmans
The Word of a Humble God
Karen R. Keen
Biblical Studies / Hermeneutics
An exploration of biblical authority and interpretation arguing for a humble, incarnational approach to Scripture that affirms LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate (Original Edition)
Justin Lee
2018 · Jericho Books
Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate (Original Edition)
Justin Lee
Evangelical / LGBTQ+ Christian
Memoir and theological exploration by the founder of the Gay Christian Network, arguing for affirming theology while maintaining evangelical faith. The original edition.
How to Talk About the Bible & LGBTQ Inclusion
The Reformation Project
2021 · The Reformation Project
How to Talk About the Bible & LGBTQ Inclusion
The Reformation Project
Evangelical / Ecumenical
A practical guide for having conversations about biblical interpretation and LGBTQ+ inclusion, providing accessible affirming arguments.
Changing Our Mind
David P. Gushee
2017 · Read the Spirit Books
Changing Our Mind
David P. Gushee
Baptist / Christian Ethics
A landmark work by a former evangelical ethicist announcing his change to an affirming position, providing comprehensive biblical and ethical arguments for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Covenant & Calling
Robert Song
2014 · SCM Press
Covenant & Calling
Robert Song
Anglican / Covenant Theology
A theological exploration of same-sex relationships through the lens of covenant theology. Song develops an affirming framework grounded in Anglican sacramental theology, emphasizing covenantal faithfulness rather than modern marriage equality language.
Better Ways to Read the Bible
Zach W. Lambert
2023 · Eerdmans
Better Ways to Read the Bible
Zach W. Lambert
Progressive Christian / Hermeneutics
A guide to reading the Bible in ways that heal rather than harm, particularly for LGBTQ+ people and others wounded by weaponized Scripture.
The Shift
Colby Martin
2020 · Eerdmans
The Shift
Colby Martin
Progressive Christian
A guide for Christians navigating the transition from conservative to progressive faith, addressing theological shifts including LGBTQ+ affirmation.
The New Testament and Homosexuality
Robin Scroggs
1983 · Fortress Press
The New Testament and Homosexuality
Robin Scroggs
Historical-Critical Biblical Studies
Landmark biblical scholarship arguing that New Testament prohibitions addressed pederasty and exploitative relationships, not committed same-sex partnerships. Scroggs employs historical-critical methodology to distinguish ancient cultural contexts from modern relationship forms.
Bible, Gender, Sexuality
James V. Brownson
2013 · Eerdmans
Bible, Gender, Sexuality
James V. Brownson
Reformed / Biblical Ethics
A scholarly examination of biblical texts on homosexuality, arguing that the Bible's teachings on gender and sexuality have been misunderstood. Brownson presents a case for affirming same-sex relationships within a framework of biblical authority.
Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate (Revised and Updated Edition)
Justin Lee
2018 · Jericho Books
Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate (Revised and Updated Edition)
Justin Lee
Evangelical / LGBTQ+ Christian
Memoir and theological exploration by the founder of the Gay Christian Network, arguing for affirming theology while maintaining evangelical faith. The revised and updated edition with new material.
God and the Gay Christian
Matthew Vines
2014 · Convergent Books
God and the Gay Christian
Matthew Vines
Evangelical / LGBTQ+ Christian
A landmark affirming work arguing that the Bible does not condemn loving, committed same-sex relationships when properly interpreted in historical and cultural context.
The Widening of God's Mercy
Christopher B. Hays, Richard B. Hays
2024 · Yale University Press
The Widening of God's Mercy
Christopher B. Hays, Richard B. Hays
Methodist / Biblical Theology
A biblical-theological argument for LGBTQ inclusion, featuring Richard Hays's change of mind from his earlier non-affirming position. Co-authored with his son Christopher B. Hays.
Out of Focus
Amber Cantorna-Wylde
2021 · Fortress Press
Out of Focus
Amber Cantorna-Wylde
Exvangelical / Memoir
A memoir of coming out as lesbian and being rejected by evangelical family and Focus on the Family, leading to deconstruction and affirming faith.
Reading the Bible in Times of Division
Josh Scott
2023 · Eerdmans
Reading the Bible in Times of Division
Josh Scott
Progressive Christian / Hermeneutics
An examination of how to read the Bible faithfully on contested issues including LGBTQ+ inclusion, racism, and gender equality, advocating for progressive interpretations.
A Queer Guide to Christian Marriage
David Khalaf, Constantino Khalaf
2019 · Eerdmans
A Queer Guide to Christian Marriage
David Khalaf, Constantino Khalaf
Queer Christian / Marriage Theology
A personal and theological exploration of same-sex Christian marriage by a married gay couple, addressing practical and spiritual dimensions of LGBTQ+ marriage.
Transforming
Austen Hartke
2018 · Westminster John Knox Press
Transforming
Austen Hartke
Trans Christian Theology
An affirming exploration of biblical texts and theology related to transgender identity and experience, arguing for full inclusion of trans Christians.
UnClobber
Colby Martin
2016 · Westminster John Knox Press
UnClobber
Colby Martin
Progressive Christian / Biblical Interpretation
An affirming work challenging traditional interpretations of the 'clobber passages' used against LGBTQ+ people, arguing for alternative readings.
Marriage in the Bible
Jennifer G. Bird
2020 · Eerdmans
Marriage in the Bible
Jennifer G. Bird
Biblical Studies / Marriage
An examination of biblical marriage texts revealing diverse and evolving understandings of marriage in Scripture, supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Why Churches Need to Talk About Sexuality
Mark Wingfield
2022 · Eerdmans
Why Churches Need to Talk About Sexuality
Mark Wingfield
Baptist / Church Practice
A pastoral resource for facilitating healthy conversations about sexuality in church communities, offering practical guidance for navigating disagreement from an affirming perspective.
Non-Affirming
(7 books)Books that reject same-sex marriage or same-sex sexual relationships as biblically faithful, including Side B, Side Y, celibacy-based, and traditionalist arguments.
A War of Loves
David Bennett
2018 · Zondervan
A War of Loves
David Bennett
Evangelical / Side B
Memoir of a gay activist who became a Christian and embraced a celibate lifestyle. Bennett shares his journey from LGBTQ+ advocacy to Christian faith while maintaining his gay identity but choosing celibacy.
Slaves, Women & Homosexuals
William J. Webb
2001 · InterVarsity Press
Slaves, Women & Homosexuals
William J. Webb
Evangelical / Hermeneutics
A hermeneutical study applying redemptive-movement principles to biblical texts on slavery, women, and homosexuality. Webb is egalitarian on women but concludes homosexuality is not biblically sanctioned.
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?
Preston Sprinkle
2023 · David C Cook
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?
Preston Sprinkle
Evangelical / Side B
Sprinkle examines biblical texts and theological arguments around same-sex marriage, engaging with both affirming and non-affirming perspectives while maintaining a traditional view.
Homosexuality
Enoch Burke
Homosexuality
Enoch Burke
Conservative Protestant
A strongly traditional work arguing against same-sex relationships from a conservative biblical perspective.
People to Be Loved
Preston Sprinkle
2015 · Zondervan
People to Be Loved
Preston Sprinkle
Evangelical / Side B
Sprinkle examines biblical texts on homosexuality while emphasizing the importance of treating LGBTQ+ people with love and dignity, concluding with a traditional but compassionate view.
The Bible and Homosexual Practice
Robert A. J. Gagnon
2001 · Abingdon Press
The Bible and Homosexual Practice
Robert A. J. Gagnon
Presbyterian / Traditionalist Exegesis
Major comprehensive scholarly defense of traditional non-affirming position; the most cited work against same-sex relationships in contemporary debates.
Is God Anti-Gay?
Sam Allberry
2013 · The Good Book Company
Is God Anti-Gay?
Sam Allberry
Anglican / Side B
Side B perspective from a celibate gay Christian; argues same-sex attraction is not sinful but same-sex sexual activity is. Over 100,000 copies sold.
Neutral / Foundational
(52 books)Books that are relevant for biblical interpretation, hermeneutics, theology, church history, sexuality background, spiritual formation, prayer, discipleship, or Christian thought, but do not primarily argue for or against LGBTQ+ affirmation.
A History of the Bible
John Barton
2019 · Viking
A History of the Bible
John Barton
Anglican / Biblical History
A scholarly history of how the Bible was written, compiled, and interpreted across two millennia.
Appealing to Scripture in Moral Debate
Charles H. Cosgrove
2002 · Eerdmans
Appealing to Scripture in Moral Debate
Charles H. Cosgrove
Hermeneutics / Moral Reasoning
An examination of how Scripture is used in contemporary moral debates, providing five hermeneutical rules for faithful engagement.
The Me I Want to Be
John Ortberg
2010 · Zondervan
The Me I Want to Be
John Ortberg
Evangelical / Spiritual Formation
A spiritual formation guide helping readers identify their God-given strengths and grow toward their best selves.
The New Testament on Sexuality
William Loader
2012 · Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
The New Testament on Sexuality
William Loader
Historical-Critical Biblical Studies
Historical-critical scholarship examining sexuality in the New Testament. Loader provides comprehensive analysis of biblical sexual ethics, informing contemporary LGBTQ debates without being primarily a pastoral advocacy work.
Christian Beliefs
Wayne Grudem
2005 · Zondervan
Christian Beliefs
Wayne Grudem
Reformed / Systematic Theology
A concise overview of twenty core Christian doctrines, edited for accessibility, designed for new and growing believers.
God's Big Picture
Vaughan Roberts
2002 · InterVarsity Press
God's Big Picture
Vaughan Roberts
Anglican / Biblical Theology
An accessible overview of the Bible's unified storyline, tracing the theme of God's kingdom from creation to new creation.
Bible Translations for Everyone
Tim Wildsmith
Bible Translations for Everyone
Tim Wildsmith
Bible Translation / Popular Bible Education
A practical guide to navigating the many Bible translations available, helping readers find the right translation for their needs.
Homoeroticism in the Biblical World
Martti Nissinen
1998 · Fortress Press
Homoeroticism in the Biblical World
Martti Nissinen
Historical-Critical Biblical Studies
Comprehensive historical-critical analysis of homoerotic practices in the ancient Near East and biblical world, providing essential scholarship frequently cited in affirming arguments.
Calvin's New Testament Commentaries: Romans and Thessalonians
John Calvin
1960 · Eerdmans
Calvin's New Testament Commentaries: Romans and Thessalonians
John Calvin
Reformed / Biblical Commentary
John Calvin's classic commentaries on Romans and Thessalonians, part of the landmark Eerdmans series.
Mere Christianity
C.S. Lewis
1952 · HarperOne
Mere Christianity
C.S. Lewis
Anglican / Apologetics
A landmark Christian apologetics work presenting the rational and moral case for the Christian faith, adapted from BBC wartime radio broadcasts.
The Path of the Righteous Gentile
Chaim Clorfene, Yakov Rogalsky
1987 · Targum Press
The Path of the Righteous Gentile
Chaim Clorfene, Yakov Rogalsky
Jewish / Moral Theology
An introduction to the Seven Noahide Laws from a Jewish perspective, exploring the moral obligations incumbent on all humanity according to Jewish law.
Teaching Romans, Volume One
Christopher Ash
2009 · Proclamation Trust Media
Teaching Romans, Volume One
Christopher Ash
Anglican / Biblical Commentary
A detailed guide for Bible teachers working through Romans 1-8, foundational to understanding Pauline ethics and the passages most used in sexuality debates.
A Concise Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament
William L. Holladay
1971 · Eerdmans
A Concise Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament
William L. Holladay
Biblical Languages / Reference
A biblical language reference work providing definitions and usages of Hebrew and Aramaic terms in the Old Testament.
Scripture and Discernment
Luke Timothy Johnson
1996 · Abingdon Press
Scripture and Discernment
Luke Timothy Johnson
Catholic / Moral Discernment
A theological examination of how the church makes moral decisions through Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience, with important implications for contested issues.
Defeating the Sins That Defeat You
Yancey Arrington
Defeating the Sins That Defeat You
Yancey Arrington
Evangelical / Discipleship
A discipleship resource focused on overcoming habitual sin through grace, accountability, and spiritual disciplines.
Love Your Neighbor
Dave Ferguson, Jon Ferguson
2016 · Zondervan
Love Your Neighbor
Dave Ferguson, Jon Ferguson
Evangelical / Mission
A practical guide to evangelism and community service focused on loving neighbors.
Ultimate Bible Guide
Ultimate Bible Guide
Bible Reference
A comprehensive Bible reference guide with photographs, maps, charts, and timelines walking through all 66 books of the Bible.
The Hole in Our Holiness
Kevin DeYoung
2012 · Crossway
The Hole in Our Holiness
Kevin DeYoung
Reformed / Sanctification
An argument that evangelical Christians have neglected the pursuit of personal holiness, calling believers to take sanctification seriously alongside grace.
You Have What It Takes
John Eldredge
2004 · Thomas Nelson
You Have What It Takes
John Eldredge
Evangelical / Masculinity
A guide for fathers encouraging them that they have what it takes to affirm their children, particularly sons, in their identity and calling.
Gospel Identity
Serge
2012 · New Growth Press
Gospel Identity
Serge
Reformed / Identity Formation
A small group resource helping Christians understand and live out their identity in the gospel, produced by Serge (World Harvest Mission).
Cure for the Common Life
Max Lucado
2005 · Thomas Nelson
Cure for the Common Life
Max Lucado
Evangelical / Vocation
A guide to discovering and living in one's unique God-given calling and purpose.
The Reason for God
Timothy Keller
2008 · Dutton
The Reason for God
Timothy Keller
Reformed / Apologetics
A landmark Christian apologetics work addressing common objections to Christianity and making a positive case for Christian faith from a Reformed perspective.
Philippians For You
Steven J. Lawson
2017 · The Good Book Company
Philippians For You
Steven J. Lawson
Reformed / Biblical Commentary
An expository guide to Philippians designed for both personal Bible study and teaching, part of the God's Word For You series.
The Man in the Mirror
Patrick M. Morley
1989 · Zondervan
The Man in the Mirror
Patrick M. Morley
Evangelical / Men's Discipleship
A foundational men's discipleship work examining the 24 most common problems men face and offering biblical solutions.
Boundaries
Henry Cloud, John Townsend
1992 · Zondervan
Boundaries
Henry Cloud, John Townsend
Christian Counseling
A landmark Christian psychology resource on establishing healthy personal boundaries in relationships, work, and faith.
Becoming a Young Man of God
Ken Rawson
Youth Specialties
Becoming a Young Man of God
Ken Rawson
Evangelical / Youth Discipleship
A discipleship curriculum designed for middle school boys, focusing on Christian masculinity and spiritual formation.
The Secular Creed
Rebecca McLaughlin
2021 · The Gospel Coalition
The Secular Creed
Rebecca McLaughlin
Evangelical / Apologetics
An examination of five contemporary secular claims on race, sexuality, gender, and identity, offering a Christian response grounded in Scripture.
Connecting Your Heart to Others
Doug Fields, Brett Eastman
Youth Specialties
Connecting Your Heart to Others
Doug Fields, Brett Eastman
Evangelical / Small Group Formation
Small group curriculum focusing on Christian community and fellowship.
Delighting in the Trinity
Michael Reeves
2012 · InterVarsity Press
Delighting in the Trinity
Michael Reeves
Reformed / Trinitarian Theology
An accessible introduction to Trinitarian theology, arguing that the doctrine of the Trinity is central to Christian faith and life.
Desiring God
John Piper
1986 · Multnomah
Desiring God
John Piper
Reformed / Spiritual Formation
A foundational work on Christian hedonism, arguing that God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in Him.
Finally Free
Heath Lambert
2013 · Zondervan
Finally Free
Heath Lambert
Evangelical / Biblical Counseling
A biblical counseling approach to sexual purity, arguing that lasting freedom comes through the grace of the gospel rather than willpower or techniques.
Find Your People
Jennie Allen
2022 · WaterBrook
Find Your People
Jennie Allen
Evangelical / Community Formation
A guide to building authentic Christian community in an age of isolation and loneliness.
Gentle and Lowly
Dane Ortlund
2020 · Crossway
Gentle and Lowly
Dane Ortlund
Reformed / Spiritual Formation
A devotional exploration of Christ's compassion and gentleness toward sinners, drawing from Puritan and Reformed theology.
Go & Multiply: Sharing The Gospel In Word and Deed
Yancey Arrington
Devoted Discipleship Training
Go & Multiply: Sharing The Gospel In Word and Deed
Yancey Arrington
Evangelical / Discipleship
Discipleship training resource for small groups focused on evangelism.
Hermeneutics
Lee Roy Martin
2021 · Lexham Press
Hermeneutics
Lee Roy Martin
Pentecostal / Hermeneutics
A comprehensive introduction to biblical hermeneutics, providing tools for responsible biblical interpretation.
How Good Is Good Enough?
Andy Stanley
2003 · Multnomah
How Good Is Good Enough?
Andy Stanley
Evangelical / Apologetics
An evangelistic work examining the question of salvation and what it means to be good enough for God.
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth
Gordon D. Fee, Douglas Stuart
1981 · Zondervan
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth
Gordon D. Fee, Douglas Stuart
Evangelical / Biblical Interpretation
A classic evangelical guide to biblical interpretation covering various genres and providing principles for responsible reading of Scripture.
Starting Out
Doug Fields, Brett Eastman
Youth Specialties
Starting Out
Doug Fields, Brett Eastman
Evangelical / Youth Discipleship
A youth small group curriculum providing six sessions on beginning the Christian life together in community.
Uncommon Ground
Timothy Keller, John Inazu
2020 · Nelson Books
Uncommon Ground
Timothy Keller, John Inazu
Public Theology / Evangelical
A collection of essays on how Christians can engage with those who disagree on social and political issues while maintaining Christian convictions.
Just Do Something
Kevin DeYoung
2009 · Moody Publishers
Just Do Something
Kevin DeYoung
Reformed / Decision-Making
A practical and theologically grounded argument against over-spiritualizing decision-making, encouraging Christians to simply act faithfully and trust God.
The Mortification of Sin
John Owen
1656 · Christian Heritage
The Mortification of Sin
John Owen
Reformed / Puritan Theology
A Puritan classic on fighting sin and pursuing holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Other Evangelicals
Isaac B. Sharp
2023 · Eerdmans
The Other Evangelicals
Isaac B. Sharp
Evangelical History / Church History
A historical account of diverse evangelical voices that were marginalized as the movement shifted rightward politically and theologically in the late 20th century.
Paul: A Biography
N. T. Wright
2018 · HarperOne
Paul: A Biography
N. T. Wright
Anglican / Pauline Studies
A comprehensive biography of the Apostle Paul by a leading New Testament scholar, examining Paul's life, thought, and mission in historical context.
Prayer
Timothy Keller
2014 · Dutton
Prayer
Timothy Keller
Reformed / Spiritual Formation
A comprehensive guide to prayer combining biblical teaching, theological reflection, and practical instruction.
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools
Tyler Staton
2022 · WaterBrook
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools
Tyler Staton
Evangelical / Prayer
A guide to contemplative prayer and mystical spirituality for contemporary Christians.
The Prodigal God
Timothy Keller
2008 · Dutton
The Prodigal God
Timothy Keller
Reformed / Gospel Theology
An examination of the parable of the prodigal son, exploring themes of grace, self-righteousness, and the heart of the gospel.
The Relational Soul
Richard Plass, James Cofield
2014 · InterVarsity Press
The Relational Soul
Richard Plass, James Cofield
Evangelical / Spiritual Formation
A guide to spiritual formation focusing on authentic relationships and overcoming false self-patterns.
Surrender to Love
David G. Benner
2003 · InterVarsity Press
Surrender to Love
David G. Benner
Christian Spiritual Formation / Psychology
An exploration of contemplative spirituality and surrender to God's love, drawing from Christian mystical traditions.
Systematic Theology
Wayne Grudem
1994 · Zondervan
Systematic Theology
Wayne Grudem
Reformed / Systematic Theology
A comprehensive evangelical systematic theology covering all major Christian doctrines from a Reformed, complementarian perspective.
The Liberty of Our Language Revealed
Thomas Blackwell
The Liberty of Our Language Revealed
Thomas Blackwell
Christian Personal Development / Speech
A work on the power of language and speech in Christian life.
Untangling Emotions
J. Alasdair Groves, Winston T. Smith
2019 · Crossway
Untangling Emotions
J. Alasdair Groves, Winston T. Smith
Reformed / Christian Counseling
A biblical guide to understanding and processing emotions in a healthy, God-honoring way from a Christian counseling perspective.
Wild at Heart
John Eldredge
2001 · Thomas Nelson
Wild at Heart
John Eldredge
Evangelical / Masculinity
A popular work on Christian masculinity arguing that men are designed for adventure, battle, and beauty.
Download the Full Theology Library PDF
All 79 books in a print-ready reference guide.
Amazon links are provided as search links for convenience. Availability, editions, and pricing may change.