I was sad to hear that Howard Hendricks, legendary professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and prolific Christian author, passed away on Wednesday, February 20, at the age of 88.

After authoring 18 books and preaching around the world in more than 80 countries, Hendricks was also well known for his influence on other Christian leaders, as several count him as their mentor, including the likes of:

• Chuck Swindoll
• Tony Evans
• Bruce Wilkinson
• Erwin Lutzer
• David Jeremiah

Not to mention all those who he mentored from a distance with his teaching and writing.

Hendricks is a fine example of someone who gave his life to serving Christ, and the profound influence that God can have through that.

He once said, “Once a believer really gets to see what the Lord can do through him or her, at whatever stage in life, they’re going to get excited about getting out there in the battle. It’s all about being a servant of Christ.”

To honor this faithful servant of Christ, here are my top 3 Howard Hendricks’ books:

1.  
   Teaching to Change Lives: Seven Proven Ways to Make Your Teaching Come Alive
2.  
   Living By the Book: The Art and Science of Reading the Bible
3.  
   As Iron Sharpens Iron: Building Character in a Mentoring Relationship

Hendricks will also be remembered for his humility. In a 2009 interview, he said:

“I’m not what everybody in the world says is great. I’m just a servant of Christ, that’s all.”

And for that, he’ll leave a great legacy!