Warren Wiersbe (1929–2019) was a beloved pastor, Bible teacher, and author who wrote more than 150 books. His writings have encouraged countless believers to grow in their faith, deepen their understanding of Scripture, and live out God’s Word in everyday life. One of his greatest gifts was making deep biblical truth easy to understand and practical for all readers.
Below is an overview of his most popular books, with short explanations of each and related Bible verses.
1. The “Be” Series (Commentaries on the Bible)
Wiersbe’s most famous collection is his “Be” series—50+ volumes of Bible commentaries. Each book focuses on a section of Scripture and carries a title beginning with “Be,” such as Be Joyful (Philippians) or Be Alert (1 Peter). These commentaries are written in a devotional style, combining solid theology with practical application.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16
Why it matters: The “Be” series has been used by pastors, teachers, and everyday Christians as both a study tool and a devotional aid.
2. With the Word
With the Word is a one-volume commentary on the entire Bible. Unlike the detailed “Be” series, this book provides concise overviews of every chapter in Scripture, making it ideal for daily reading alongside personal Bible study.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105
Why it matters: It gives readers a quick yet meaningful way to understand the context and message of each passage in the Bible.
3. The Bible Exposition Commentary
This six-volume set is a collection of Wiersbe’s teachings based on the “Be” series. It covers both the Old and New Testaments, arranged in a way that makes it a ready-to-use resource for preachers, teachers, and serious Bible students.
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” — 2 Timothy 4:2
Why it matters: It serves as a complete library for teaching Scripture with clarity and application.
4. On Being a Servant of God
This book is one of Wiersbe’s most well-loved works outside of his commentaries. In it, he addresses what it means to serve God with humility, wisdom, and joy. It is written for pastors, ministry leaders, and Christians who want to serve faithfully in any role.
“The greatest among you will be your servant.” — Matthew 23:11
Why it matters: It helps readers refocus on the heart of ministry—serving others in the name of Christ.
5. 50 People Every Christian Should Know
In this book, Wiersbe introduces readers to influential Christians throughout history, such as Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, and Fanny Crosby. Each chapter highlights their faith and lessons we can learn from their lives.
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” — Hebrews 13:7
Why it matters: This book connects believers today with the spiritual giants of the past, encouraging us to walk faithfully in our own generation.
6. Meet Yourself in the Psalms
In this devotional, Wiersbe walks through the Psalms and shows how these songs of praise, prayer, and lament connect to the human heart. He explains how the Psalms reflect our struggles, joys, and hopes in God.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1
Why it matters: It gives believers a personal connection to the Psalms, helping them see their own story reflected in God’s Word.
7. The Integrity Crisis
Written in the 1980s, this book addresses the need for honesty, holiness, and integrity in Christian leadership. Wiersbe’s words are still timely today, as many churches continue to face challenges related to leadership and moral failure.
“Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.” — Proverbs 28:6
Why it matters: It serves as a call for Christians, especially leaders, to live with authenticity and faithfulness.
8. Looking Up When Life Gets You Down
This devotional-style book focuses on encouragement from God’s Word during hard times. Wiersbe uses passages from Scripture to show that believers can hold onto hope no matter their struggles.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
Why it matters: It offers strength and hope in seasons of difficulty, pointing readers back to Christ as their source of comfort.
9. Prayer, Praise, and Promises
This devotional takes readers through the Psalms with a focus on how prayer and worship bring us closer to God. It’s written in short chapters that are easy to read daily.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
Why it matters: It helps believers grow in prayer and worship while connecting daily life with God’s promises.
10. Real Worship
In this book, Wiersbe teaches what true worship means—not just music or ritual, but the heart’s response to God. He emphasizes worship as a lifestyle of obedience, gratitude, and surrender.
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” — John 4:24
Why it matters: It reminds believers that worship is not confined to Sunday services but is expressed in how we live each day.
Summary Table of Warren Wiersbe’s Popular Books
| Book Title | Focus Area | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| The “Be” Series | Bible commentaries on individual books | Easy-to-read devotional commentaries |
| With the Word | One-volume Bible overview | Quick insights into every chapter |
| Bible Exposition Commentary | Expanded commentary series | Great resource for teachers/preachers |
| On Being a Servant of God | Christian service & ministry | Encourages humble, faithful service |
| 50 People Every Christian Should Know | Christian biography | Lessons from past spiritual leaders |
| Meet Yourself in the Psalms | Devotional on Psalms | Connects readers personally with Scripture |
| The Integrity Crisis | Christian leadership & holiness | Call to integrity in ministry |
| Looking Up When Life Gets You Down | Encouragement in trials | Provides hope and comfort from God’s Word |
| Prayer, Praise, and Promises | Devotional on Psalms & prayer | Deepens prayer and worship life |
| Real Worship | Worship as lifestyle | Teaches true biblical worship |
