The Sermon on the Mount–Jesus’s address in chapters 5 to 7 of Matthew’s gospel–has been called the core of Christian ethics because, more than anywhere else in scripture, it summarizes how Jesus calls us to live. But is it realistic? One longstanding tradition of interpretation considers the sermon a “counsel of perfection,” fit only for monks and nuns or others with a special, all-consuming religious call. These five books, on the other hand, present the sermon as an attainable guide for all faithful people.

For the inaugural edition of the SP Bookshelf, SP Press editor Andy Singleterry curates 6 essential titles on the topic of incarnational urban ministry, listed in a recommended reading order.

For the inaugural edition of the SP Bookshelf, SP Press editor Andy Singleterry curates 6 essential titles on the topic of incarnational urban ministry, listed in a recommended reading order.