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What Every Christian Ought to Know: Solid Grounding for a Growing Faith
Available for the first time in paperback, one of the last books written by revered late pastor Adrian Rogers is also one of his best-selling, a bold yet approachable guide to the ABCs of Christianity that Publishers Weekly calls, “(a) beautifully simple primer on essential truths.”
What Every Christian Ought to Know provides readers with a well- organized, well-reasoned grasp of such topics as salvation, eternal security, prayer, the Holy Spirit, resisting temptation, finding God’s will, as well as the authority of the Bible and how to understand it better. A valuable volume for new Christians and young disciples, it’s also a suitably instructive resource for believers of all ages.
This new edition includes an introduction from Steve Rogers, president of the Adrian Rogers Pastor Training Institute, plus discussion questions for personal reflection or group study.
What Every Christian Ought to Know provides readers with a well- organized, well-reasoned grasp of such topics as salvation, eternal security, prayer, the Holy Spirit, resisting temptation, finding God’s will, as well as the authority of the Bible and how to understand it better. A valuable volume for new Christians and young disciples, it’s also a suitably instructive resource for believers of all ages.
This new edition includes an introduction from Steve Rogers, president of the Adrian Rogers Pastor Training Institute, plus discussion questions for personal reflection or group study.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 1999
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323 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 18, 2012
It's ironic that for many who practice the Christian faith, knowing just the simple basic foundations of being a Christian and the Bible, is often missing.
Filled with study questions to not only reinforce the most basic understanding of the foundations of Christianity, but also to serve for either personal or group study, "What Ever Christian Ought to Know" seeks to help new, maturing, or "I didn't know that" Christians (and non-Christians) understand the basic foundations that play a part in the Christian faith.
This is not an in depth book that is going to cover everything under the sun and the moon and the stars, but I like how it does approach the basic of the basics, with scriptural backing and enough coverage to provide anyone with a starting point to go from, particularly with many churches, these days not teaching really, the foundation of the Christian faith.
Not, "preachy" or dry, "What Ever Christian Ought to Know" is filled with personal anecdotal stories that bring a personal tough to understanding the basic Christian doctrines and as the epilogue shares with the reader, its about growing in the faith, not just or about knowing about the Christian faith.
Twelve chapters long and covering key points, friendly, interesting, the book doesn't cover the "hot topics" if that is what the reader is looking for, instead this is a book about encouraging and taking the time to understand what the Bible is about, what following Christ is all about and not about hitting the hot topics that are prevalent these days and in conversations that people will and might encounter in their daily lives.
Looking for down points, it would have been nice if there was an appendix outlining the topics with related scripture or even an index, however, given this is a primer that is created for easy reading, yet with deep meaning, arguably this is a book that I would recommend to new, maturing or maybe even just those who are curious about the Christian faith, due to the book not being too heavy that it would lose a person's interest.
I would't recommend this book if the reader was looking for a book with deeper discussions, but for myself, I felt this was a very good "layman" for the Christian faith to have on one's bookshelf and to engage in personal or group study.
The writing is easy and conversational and with the scriptural references, many will find this to be a great starting point to understanding more about the essential truths needed for a growing faith that does need to be grounded in God's truth.
As someone who is personally busy and often find myself short on time amid juggling schedules and priorities, this is a wonderful book, i that allows time during those busy moments, to understand better the essential truths that make up the Christian faith and developing that strong foundation that is needed as a Christian.
"What Every Christian Ought to Know" truly reaches its goal of ensuring that every Christian can start their faith, understanding the basic essentials needed and in the process be empowered in their Christian growth and life.
Filled with study questions to not only reinforce the most basic understanding of the foundations of Christianity, but also to serve for either personal or group study, "What Ever Christian Ought to Know" seeks to help new, maturing, or "I didn't know that" Christians (and non-Christians) understand the basic foundations that play a part in the Christian faith.
This is not an in depth book that is going to cover everything under the sun and the moon and the stars, but I like how it does approach the basic of the basics, with scriptural backing and enough coverage to provide anyone with a starting point to go from, particularly with many churches, these days not teaching really, the foundation of the Christian faith.
Not, "preachy" or dry, "What Ever Christian Ought to Know" is filled with personal anecdotal stories that bring a personal tough to understanding the basic Christian doctrines and as the epilogue shares with the reader, its about growing in the faith, not just or about knowing about the Christian faith.
Twelve chapters long and covering key points, friendly, interesting, the book doesn't cover the "hot topics" if that is what the reader is looking for, instead this is a book about encouraging and taking the time to understand what the Bible is about, what following Christ is all about and not about hitting the hot topics that are prevalent these days and in conversations that people will and might encounter in their daily lives.
Looking for down points, it would have been nice if there was an appendix outlining the topics with related scripture or even an index, however, given this is a primer that is created for easy reading, yet with deep meaning, arguably this is a book that I would recommend to new, maturing or maybe even just those who are curious about the Christian faith, due to the book not being too heavy that it would lose a person's interest.
I would't recommend this book if the reader was looking for a book with deeper discussions, but for myself, I felt this was a very good "layman" for the Christian faith to have on one's bookshelf and to engage in personal or group study.
The writing is easy and conversational and with the scriptural references, many will find this to be a great starting point to understanding more about the essential truths needed for a growing faith that does need to be grounded in God's truth.
As someone who is personally busy and often find myself short on time amid juggling schedules and priorities, this is a wonderful book, i that allows time during those busy moments, to understand better the essential truths that make up the Christian faith and developing that strong foundation that is needed as a Christian.
"What Every Christian Ought to Know" truly reaches its goal of ensuring that every Christian can start their faith, understanding the basic essentials needed and in the process be empowered in their Christian growth and life.
June 15, 2019
This is very simplistic and therefore should be read by new Christians or for those who are feeling "stuck" with their faith.
However, one thing you should do while reading is to do your own research, whether you look outside at history book or in the Bible (for the religious parts). This book puts itself in the position of authority without giving too many notes/references. Do not take anything for face value; always research for yourself.
Recommended 12+ for topics younger readers may not understand.
However, one thing you should do while reading is to do your own research, whether you look outside at history book or in the Bible (for the religious parts). This book puts itself in the position of authority without giving too many notes/references. Do not take anything for face value; always research for yourself.
Recommended 12+ for topics younger readers may not understand.
May 27, 2016
This book is a must read for Christians. It is full of wonderful, easy to understand information. This was a library copy, but I will be buying a copy to keep for myself. His analogies are awesome.
March 23, 2020
My pastor chose this book for our Sunday school class to go through together . Due to unforeseen circumstances (the corona virus) the lessons have been put on hold. We left off on chapter 5 as a group, but I decided to finish it on my own because I was enjoying it so much. I did notice that people seemed skeptical or very reserved when it came to answering the discussion questions at the end of each chapter. The questions are very personal, but I found it to be very beneficial to answer open, honestly, and completely. I personally enjoyed studying it in the group setting more than at home alone, but I would highly recommend this book to all Christians.
October 1, 2017
This is a simple book but it is something I would recommend to anyone who is new to Christianity. It sets forth what it means to be a Christian and how to be one. I think this is one of the most important books I could recommend to a new Christian.
The author was Baptist and there is a chapter about baptism and why immersion is the correct form of baptism. Many Christians, including myself, believe in sprinkling as a form of baptism. That is the only part that may be different for many Christians.
The author was Baptist and there is a chapter about baptism and why immersion is the correct form of baptism. Many Christians, including myself, believe in sprinkling as a form of baptism. That is the only part that may be different for many Christians.
September 27, 2025
(4.5)
Great foundational book that tackles a lot of the main points in really understanding what it means to be a Christian and its written with plenty of personal and fun analogies in a light hearted and playful voice. Easy to read and great for the brand new believer.
Great foundational book that tackles a lot of the main points in really understanding what it means to be a Christian and its written with plenty of personal and fun analogies in a light hearted and playful voice. Easy to read and great for the brand new believer.
September 24, 2018
A book that is as simple as it is profound. Adrian Rogers brings basic doctrine for a believer to the bottom shelf. I highly recommend it.
October 11, 2018
Great book for learning practical methods for the study and application of Biblical truth. Adrian Rogers uses examples from every day life and appeals to your common sense.
October 14, 2020
Love this book! Whether you are a new believer or an aged believer, you will find something in this book for you. Would recommend to everyone.
February 9, 2021
Great read. I based a Bible study series for my church off this book. It is especially good for new Christians or a new believers class for a church.
December 31, 2021
Excellent book! I am going to use this book for new believers as a Bible study. It’s well written and easy to read. Highly recommended!!!
June 30, 2022
This book was given to be by one of the pastors at my church. It is a really great Primer on the essential aspects of faith! Perfect book to give a new believer!
September 8, 2023
Dr. Rogers has a poetic way of writing that is clear and eloquent.
November 12, 2023
This is a wonderful book! Very readable and enjoyable, filled with simple yet profound insights. The two young men (new believers) who studied it with us also enjoyed it very much.
December 31, 2025
A gifted book I finished on the last day of 2025.
Only the Lord indeed can satisfy all our needs. 🥹
Only the Lord indeed can satisfy all our needs. 🥹
June 20, 2020
A simple book of basics. I found that this reads almost like a preachers sermon. Like tidbits pastors save for the start of their preaching. It’s great for new believers or those wanting a refresher.
November 28, 2018
Very good systematic method to develop foundational grasp of the faith.
September 1, 2012
Title: WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW
Author: Adrian Rogers with Steve Rogers
Publisher: B&H Publishing Group
September 2012
ISBN 978-1-4336-7785-4
Genre: Religion \ Christian Life \ Spiritual Growth
Adrian Rogers. Enough said. The late Dr. Adrian Rogers, former pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church near Memphis, Tennessee, lived a life captivated by Christ and consumed with a passion for the Word of God and for grounding new believers into disciples and exhorting disciples to never stop growing. His life can be summed up in one word – integrity.
So when I received the opportunity to review WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW, I literally jumped at it. This book was previously published by Dr. Rogers, and this new edition includes an introduction from Steve Rogers (president of the Adrian Rogers Pastor Training Institute) as well as discussion questions for personal reflection or group study. But the real draw for this reviewer is the bulk of the book. Written in a clear, passionate tone that trumpets a life time of walking with the Lord and studying the Word, WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW is a primer for those who claim the name of Jesus and want to live up to everything that that stands for. Taking the major doctrines, in a lucid yet devotional tone, Dr. Rogers explains clearly what God’s word has to say. WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW not only serves as a handbook for apologetics, it also reminds every believer of their “first love,” and encourages them to walk ever closer with The One who loved them first. 5 stars. 278 pages. $14.99.
Author: Adrian Rogers with Steve Rogers
Publisher: B&H Publishing Group
September 2012
ISBN 978-1-4336-7785-4
Genre: Religion \ Christian Life \ Spiritual Growth
Adrian Rogers. Enough said. The late Dr. Adrian Rogers, former pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church near Memphis, Tennessee, lived a life captivated by Christ and consumed with a passion for the Word of God and for grounding new believers into disciples and exhorting disciples to never stop growing. His life can be summed up in one word – integrity.
So when I received the opportunity to review WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW, I literally jumped at it. This book was previously published by Dr. Rogers, and this new edition includes an introduction from Steve Rogers (president of the Adrian Rogers Pastor Training Institute) as well as discussion questions for personal reflection or group study. But the real draw for this reviewer is the bulk of the book. Written in a clear, passionate tone that trumpets a life time of walking with the Lord and studying the Word, WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW is a primer for those who claim the name of Jesus and want to live up to everything that that stands for. Taking the major doctrines, in a lucid yet devotional tone, Dr. Rogers explains clearly what God’s word has to say. WHAT EVERY CHRISTIAN OUGHT TO KNOW not only serves as a handbook for apologetics, it also reminds every believer of their “first love,” and encourages them to walk ever closer with The One who loved them first. 5 stars. 278 pages. $14.99.
October 12, 2012
In today’s world where Christian can mean whatever one wants it to mean, real Christian’s must be able to be distinguished from the world and those who claim Christianity in name only. There are some things that Christians must know, that are Biblical truths, that other ‘feel good’ churches want to dismiss because they make others uncomfortable. I think the two chapters that really spoke to me were on eternal salvation and baptism – these are two big issues in my family with me on one side, knowing where I’m going when I die and that baptism by immersion is a Biblical mandate but not having my husband agree with me.
The one thing I would have liked to see included would have been every Christian ought to know that Hell and Heaven are real, as this is becoming a divisive issue in many churches today. Among other subjects covered there is the Bible is the Word of God, how to handle temptation, how to be filled with the Holy Spirit and others. This is a good starting point for new Christians or those who have been Christians for awhile but still are on sure footing with their faith. The authors don’t beat around the bush however it’s written in a friendly style and I even sometimes found myself chuckling out loud by some random thought the authors included. I’d say this one is a must read for every Christian who is a Christian or who wants to be stronger in their faith.
**Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book through B&B Media in exchange for my own opinion, no other compensation was given.
The one thing I would have liked to see included would have been every Christian ought to know that Hell and Heaven are real, as this is becoming a divisive issue in many churches today. Among other subjects covered there is the Bible is the Word of God, how to handle temptation, how to be filled with the Holy Spirit and others. This is a good starting point for new Christians or those who have been Christians for awhile but still are on sure footing with their faith. The authors don’t beat around the bush however it’s written in a friendly style and I even sometimes found myself chuckling out loud by some random thought the authors included. I’d say this one is a must read for every Christian who is a Christian or who wants to be stronger in their faith.
**Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book through B&B Media in exchange for my own opinion, no other compensation was given.
October 22, 2012
This is an in depth and yet back to basics look at the Bible principals for Christians. Things that need to be taught to new Christians as discipleship and yet is a wonderful tool for a refresher and strengthener for someone who has been in Church and even the ministry for years!
I found that going back over some of the basics in this book, the way they are laid out, was like a fresh drink of water! It isn't one of those old dry as dust tombs that are so deep and theological that you can't even understand half the words and it puts you to sleep.
Adrian and his son keep your interest and keep things moving right along. I only had one problem with the book and that is that they used different translations. It bothers me when I read a book about the Bible and it's principals and doctrines and the author uses "Other Translations". Especially when they use several. This is my own personal preference and belief. I believe in the King James Version and have a hard time when I read a book about the Bible and it uses several different "Books". There can only be one Bible, One Word from God.
Other than that this is a wonderful book and my husband and I have enjoyed reading it together.
I received this book from B&B Media for my opinion and personal review. The above statements are mine alone.
I found that going back over some of the basics in this book, the way they are laid out, was like a fresh drink of water! It isn't one of those old dry as dust tombs that are so deep and theological that you can't even understand half the words and it puts you to sleep.
Adrian and his son keep your interest and keep things moving right along. I only had one problem with the book and that is that they used different translations. It bothers me when I read a book about the Bible and it's principals and doctrines and the author uses "Other Translations". Especially when they use several. This is my own personal preference and belief. I believe in the King James Version and have a hard time when I read a book about the Bible and it uses several different "Books". There can only be one Bible, One Word from God.
Other than that this is a wonderful book and my husband and I have enjoyed reading it together.
I received this book from B&B Media for my opinion and personal review. The above statements are mine alone.
October 3, 2012
Whether your just beginning your walk as a christian or perhaps your looking for a book that will refresh and remind you of the basics of faith, look no further than this book.
Whenever I look for a book that will help me grow in my christian walk the first thing I want is something that is easy to read and understand, and that's just what I found in "What Every Christian Ought To Know."It's a book that deals with basic truths that every christian needs to gain a closer spiritual walk with God. There are twelve chapters each touching on topics such as the assurance of salvation, how to handle temptation, and what to do if we sin. Each chapter opens with a scripture, then goes into a discussion of the topic being discussed and then there are study questions to wrap up the chapter. I found each chapter had sufficient scripture reference to allow for further reading.
Overall, I thought the title of the epilogue really said it best, It's Not What You Know, It's How Much You Grow, and if your looking to grow your spiritual knowledge then this book is for you. I really think this book would be great for group study. I also feel as if it would be a great gift for a new christian.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Whenever I look for a book that will help me grow in my christian walk the first thing I want is something that is easy to read and understand, and that's just what I found in "What Every Christian Ought To Know."It's a book that deals with basic truths that every christian needs to gain a closer spiritual walk with God. There are twelve chapters each touching on topics such as the assurance of salvation, how to handle temptation, and what to do if we sin. Each chapter opens with a scripture, then goes into a discussion of the topic being discussed and then there are study questions to wrap up the chapter. I found each chapter had sufficient scripture reference to allow for further reading.
Overall, I thought the title of the epilogue really said it best, It's Not What You Know, It's How Much You Grow, and if your looking to grow your spiritual knowledge then this book is for you. I really think this book would be great for group study. I also feel as if it would be a great gift for a new christian.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2023
A nicely written book fixated on discussing, in depth, Psalm 23. Nicely ties it to Jesus Christ. Lags a little in the middle, but overall, the flow and message is there. I'd give it 4.5 stars if I could but it's good enough that I'll round it up to 5. Recommended.
November 5, 2016
A must!
This book is so awesome and the language so easy to digest.
He was a gifted man. No five dollar words or other pompous speech.
Very good new or reminder information.
Will refer back to it! LOVE IT!!!!
This book is so awesome and the language so easy to digest.
He was a gifted man. No five dollar words or other pompous speech.
Very good new or reminder information.
Will refer back to it! LOVE IT!!!!
June 30, 2013
Wonderful read! I will be reading this again.
December 30, 2013
An excellent read for all Christians. This books talks about the basics of being a Christian. Rogers uses examples that make understanding very clear.
August 31, 2015
Excellent, for new and old Christians alike. It is not often I give a five star rating, and this reflects how useful, and encouraging I found this book.
July 12, 2015
Its worth investing in
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews