Mitchell's Contend Tops New York Times Bestseller List
Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell's debut book Contend, released October 13, has passed 100,000 copies sold across formats.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Books
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Contend, the debut book from Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell, was published October 13 by W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, and debuted at No. 1 on The New York Times list for advice, how-to and miscellaneous books. The title has since surpassed 100,000 copies sold across print, digital and audiobook formats.
Why it matters
The debut's strong showing across the New York Times, Publishers Weekly and Amazon rankings signals notable reader demand for faith-based nonfiction from a pastor who built a large congregation. Its performance adds to the visibility of Mitchell's ministry, which he leads through 2819 Church and the 2819 Institute.
Contend debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times advice list and Publishers Weekly's hardcover nonfiction chart, and passed 100,000 copies sold across formats. The breakdown between print, digital and audiobook sales and any independent verification of those totals were not reported.
The players
Philip Anthony Mitchell
Pastor Mitchell is the author of Contend and founder of 2819 Church and the 2819 Institute in Atlanta, having graduated with honors from North Carolina Central University.
W Publishing
W Publishing is an imprint of Thomas Nelson, the Christian publishing house that released Contend.
The details
Contend addresses compromise, complacency, fear, pride and distraction, themes drawn from Mitchell's ministry. The book also reached No. 1 among all books on Amazon during its release week.
Timeline
October 13: Contend released by W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson.
Week of October 18: Contend ranked No. 2 among nonfiction on Amazon Charts.
Market Landscape
Contend's debut at No. 1 on the New York Times advice list places a first-time faith author alongside established self-help titles in a category where Christian publishers have built strong readerships. Its performance reflects continued demand for pastor-led books that pair scripture with practical life guidance.
Readers can purchase Contend in print, digital and audiobook formats, with the audiobook edition adding another way to consume the title. Availability across these formats is the practical route for those who want to read the book after its bestseller debut.
The takeaway
A debut book can reach national bestseller rankings quickly when it draws strong early demand across several retail channels. Readers interested in faith-based nonfiction can compare titles on current bestseller lists to find works matching their interests.
Further reading
Explore more Books coverage for other bestselling titles and author debuts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rolling Out.
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