Inspirational Authors
Throughout July, The Friends of the Public Library will highlight the work of American authors whose words have inspired readers over the past 250 years.
Because religion and spirituality have long been sources of reflection and renewal, this curated collection features influential religious leaders whose writings helped shape Christian spirituality in America over the centuries.Â
We are especially grateful to Don, our dedicated volunteer and religion category expert, who coordinated this collection and researched its historical significance.
The 19th Century Woman Whose Words Changed the World
In the 19th century, Mary Baker Eddy (1821 – 1910) authored 17 books and founded a religious movement centered on spiritual healing. Her most influential work, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures (1875), became the foundation for The Church of Christ, Scientist, established in 1879. In 1992, the Women’s National Book Association recognized the book as one of the “75 Books by Women Whose Words Have Changed the World.”
All of Eddy’s titles remain in print today. The Friends’ Warehouse collection includes:
- Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures
- Miscellaneous Writings, a record of her healing practices
- Christ and Christmas, a 15-verse poem illustrated by James Franklin Gilman
Evangelical Leaders of the 20th and 21st Centuries
Several evangelical pastors and teachers expanded their reach through publishing and broadcast ministries, using modern media to share biblical exposition and pastoral guidance with global audiences.
John Fullerton MacArthur Jr. (1939 – 2025) was the founder of Grace to You, a global radio, television, and digital ministry, and served as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. He authored more than 150 books offering theological clarity and historical context.
Lloyd John Ogilvie (1930 – 2019) was a Presbyterian minister who served as the 61st Chaplain of the United States Senate. His writings reflect empathy for leaders under pressure and a commitment to unity across political divides.
Charles Frazier Stanley Jr. (1932 – 2023) was senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta for 49 years and founder of In Touch Ministries which widely broadcasted his teaching to millions via radio, television, and digital platforms. His 70+ books apply scripture to everyday challenges.
Charles Rozell Swindoll (born 1934) is the founder of Insight for Living Ministries, a global radio and media ministry headquartered in Frisco, Texas. He has authored more than 70 books, many of which emphasize God’s grace, joy, and practical Christian living.
Warren Wendall Wiersbe (1929 – 2019) was the former pastor of the Moody Church in Chicago, and ministered throughout the United States, Canada, Central and South America, and Europe. He was a prolific author of over 150 books including the popular BE series of Bible commentaries. In 2002, he was awarded the Gold Medallion Lifetime Achievement Award by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association.
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Influential British Voices
While the collection focuses on American authors, two British leaders are also included for their enduring influence:
John Wesley (1703 – 1791) was an English cleric, theologian, and founder of Methodism, whose revival movement within the Church of England grew into a global denomination.
David Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899 – 1981) was a Welsh minister and physician, known for his Calvinist preaching at Westminster Chapel in London for nearly three decades.
Ready to be inspired?
As America commemorates 250 years of rich history filled with the courageous creativity of those who dared to make a positive impact, this unique collection provides a provocative immersion into the voices that shaped Christian spirituality across the centuries. Whether through healing, pastoral care, or theological clarity, these authors continue to inspire reflection and faith today.