5 chunky and challenging books, perfect for students read in their long summers to invest in their spiritual health. "Raking is easy, but you get only leaves; digging is hard, but you might find diamonds" - John Piper.

Please check out our other 'Top 5 Books' videos. Ken Matthews is the Assistant Minister of St Joseph's Benwell, Newcastle UK. He has many years experience working with students in the UK through his work with UCCF and Jesmond Parish Church. Here are 5 chunky and challenging books for Christian Students to read over the holidays: 1. Knowing God by Jim Packer. If you want to know God, then read the Bible. If you read one other book then make it this. 2. The Cross of Christ by John Stott. The most thorough yet moving study of the cross you could find. It explains what Jesus death achieved, answers common objections and explores living under the cross today. 3. A Call To Spiritual Reformation by Don Carson. This book explores the epistles to see what lessons Paul taught in his 'school of prayer’. Gives great principles and practical advice. 4. The Reason For God by Tim Keller. An intellectually credible argument and an important grounding for believers in an age of scepticism. 5. Paradoxology by Krish Kandiah. Tackles the really tricky bits of the Bible which Christians often feel uncomfortable about. It shows why Christianity was never meant to be simple. So 5 chunky and challenging books for students. Make the most of your time at Uni and study Christ at least as hard as your academic work!