We have not always been well-served by books on marriage, but in recent years we have seen several excellent new titles. Here are some of my book recommendations for books on marriage.
Top Recommendation
The Meaning of Marriage by Tim Keller
This is a powerful book; it is my new favorite book on marriage and the best of all the books I read in 2011. The Meaning of Marriage elevates marriage, making it something beautiful and holy and lovely. And with it comes friendship and companionship and sex and everything else God has packaged into the marriage relationship. This book celebrates it all and it does it within the greatest context of all–the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Other Recommendations
- Gospel-Shaped Marriage by Chad and Emily Van Dixhoorn. This book combines sound biblical teaching with helpful real-life application and does so in a way that can help change, improve, and perhaps even transform any marriage.
- When Sinners Say “I Do” by Dave Harvey – A tremendous book to read after The Meaning of Marriage. (See also the follow-up I Still Do which focuses on the middle years of marriage.)
- This Momentary Marriage by John Piper – I also reviewed Velvet Steel here.
- A Christ-Centered Wedding by Catherine Parks – Focused on the wedding ceremony and providing helpful counsel for making the day all about Jesus.
Sex
- The Marriage Bed by Ray Rhodes – A biblical guide to sexual intimacy.
- Those struggling in the sexual relationship within marriage may find help and guidance in Intended for Pleasure by Ed Wheat.
