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Top 10 Most Popular Christian Books

By Mary Fairchild, About.com

Are you wondering what other Christians are reading? Library Journal compiles a list of the most requested Christian and religious hardcover books borrowed from libraries in the United States. Also, the Christian Booksellers Association puts together a monthly list of the best-selling Christian books. I've combined these two sources to create this current top 10 most popular Christian books list:

1. The Shack by William P. Young

The Shack by William P. YoungImage: Cover Scan
This book has stirred a great deal of interest, both positive and negative. As a literary work, I don't think it compares to The Pilgrim's Progress, as some have said. It did challenge me spiritually and caused me to draw closer to God. Dealing with the question, Where is God? in the midst of tragedy, it presents the path to healing in a beautiful way. It made me think deeply about my false perceptions of God. It didn't revolutionize my life or change my course in a dramatic way. I questioned some of the theological concepts it conveys, but I took into account it is a work of fiction. In the end, I couldn't see what all the fuss was about. My conclusion: it's a good book, worth reading.
Windblown Media; Paperback; 256 Pages.
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2. Fireproof by Eric Wilson, Alex Kendrick, Stephen Kendrick

Fireproof by Eric Wilson, Alex Kendrick, Stephen KendrickImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Firefighters are known for their bravery inside burning buildings and their oath to never leave a partner. But within the bounds of marriage, Captain Caleb Holt is ready to call it quits. His father encourages him to make a 40-day commitment called The Love Dare, which is actually the title of another popular non-fiction book upon which this story is based. Facing the challenge, Caleb is surprised to find the embers of his love rekindling. Though it sounds quite corny, behind this story lies the foundational truth about the nature of true love, making it an excellent read—not just for married couples.
Thomas Nelson; Paperback; 320 Pages.
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3. Inside the Revolution by Joel C. Rosenberg

Inside the Revolution by Joel C. RosenbergImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Inside the Revolution is next in line on my shopping list! I've read all of Joel Rosenberg's previous novels (Dead Heat, The Copper Scroll, Ezekiel Option, The Last Days, The Last Jihad), as well as his non-fiction book, Epicenter, which examines how end times biblical prophecy might play out in today's current geopolitical environment. Also in the non-fiction category, Inside the Revolution traces the rise of radical Islam over the past 30 years since Ayatollah Khomeini rose to power. If you want to gain a thorough understanding of what is going on in the Middle East and in the politics of Islam, this is the book to read.
Tyndale House; Hardcover; 300 Pages.
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4. For the Tough Times by Max Lucado

For the Tough Times by Max LucadoImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Many of us are spiritually unprepared for tragedy and loss ... when a loved one dies suddenly, when a dream is crushed, or when inexplicably bad things happen in our lives. We wonder, Where was God in this? How could he let this happen? What possible good purpose could he have in mind? This little book will help believers find answers to some of the difficult questions that shake us during crisis. It shows us how to pray when we have little or no hope, and most importantly, it points us to the only One who can bring grace and peace to us in the midst of our pain.
Thomas Nelson; Hardcover; 96 Pages.
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5. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

The Five Love LanguagesImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
In this book Gary Chapman studies the 5 ways in which couples communicate with each other. Understanding these primary love languages will help husbands and wives achieve more successful marriage relationships. The basic principles actually apply to all relationships. Incredibly, The Five Love Languages was first published in 1992 and still ranks in the top 10 best-selling Christian books!
Moody Publishers; Paperback; 208 Pages.

6. 90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey

90 Minutes in HeavenImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
After a terrible car crash, Baptist minister Don Piper is pronounced dead at the scene. This inspiring story tells of his experiences during the next 90 minutes spent in heaven. Through prayer, he is suddenly brought back to physical life and eventually makes a full recovery. This book records his memories of heaven. Have you lost a loved one? Don Piper's words will comfort you and bring hope. Have you lost your zeal? This book will refuel your passion for life as well as your longing for heaven.
Baker Publishing Group; Paperback; 208 Pages.
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7. Kiss by Ted Dekker and Erin Healy

Kiss by Ted Dekker and Erin HealyImage Courtesy of Thomas Nelson
Ted Dekker is one of my favorite suspense fiction writers and Kiss is his first novel ever to be co-written with a woman. Although I liked the fresh new feminine twist Healy added to the story, along with its surplus of suspense and action, I'm beginning to think I'll always classify Dekker's first five or so books (all in the supernatural suspense genre) as his very best. This one opted out of the supernatural realm and jumped into a combination of romance/medical/sci-fi/suspense and thriller.
Thomas Nelson; Hardcover; 336 Pages.
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8. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Redeeming Love by Francine RiversImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Many years ago I picked up the Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers, a set of historical fiction books based on an obscure Bible character. Instantly, Rivers became a favorite author of mine and I've read many of her books, including Redeeming Love. This work of fiction has to be one of the most skillful and powerful depictions of our Savior's incredible love, retold through the Bible story of Hosea and Gomer. It's a romance you won't be able to put down about a lover you won't be able to forget. His name is Savior, Redeemer. If you have not yet met him, this book will change your life forever.
Multnomah; Hardcover/Paperback; 480 Pages.
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9. Heaven by Randy Alcorn

Heaven by Randy AlcornImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Many of us have serious questions about heaven, and also some not-so-serious questions. This book provides us with a thoroughly researched biblical description of heaven as Alcorn addresses these issues and helps us develop a greater understanding and deeper longing for our eternal destination.
Tyndale House; Hardcover; 350 Pages.
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10. The Centurion's Wife, Acts of Faith Series #1 by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke

The Centurion's Wife by Davis Bunn and Janette OkeImage Courtesy of Pricegrabber
Another male-female author team comes together for this historical, biblical fiction story surrounding an obscure Bible character, the Roman Centurion soldier whose servant was healed by Jesus. While the plot is strong, some of the characters need development, which is sure to take place in future installments of the series.
Bethany House; Hardcover/Paperback; 384 Pages.
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