How We Change: Intentional Spiritual Formation | Discovering Your Identity and Calling (Revamped) E5
Feb 9, 2024
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John Mark Comer teaches about the power of intentional spiritual formation and how it can create lasting transformation in our lives. He explores the tension between theology and sexuality, the importance of communal living and storytelling for renewing our minds, the value of practice in spiritual formation, the cost of discipleship, the connection between happiness and virtue, and the invitation to spiritual formation and growth for everyone.
Practicing counter formation involves embracing new habits and letting go of old ones to create lasting transformation in our lives.
Engaging with Jesus' teachings and stories challenges prevailing narratives and aligns us with a purpose-driven existence.
Deep dives
Teaching and Practicing Counter Formation
In this podcast episode, John Mark introduces the concept of practicing counter formation in the current culture. He emphasizes the need to take up new habits and let go of old ones. He encourages listeners to consider what they can embrace and what they can release in their own lives. The teaching is centered on Luke chapter 6 and the idea of discipleship as a lifelong apprenticeship to Jesus.
Teaching as Alternative Storytelling
John Mark highlights the importance of teaching as a way of sharing alternative stories. The teaching delves into the life and teachings of Jesus, presenting an alternative story to the prevailing narratives in society. By immersing ourselves in Jesus' teachings and stories, we can challenge the common perspectives and ways of life and align ourselves with a more meaningful and purpose-driven existence.
Practice and Transformation
The podcast emphasizes the role of practice in spiritual formation. John Mark asserts that reading, contemplation, silence, and prayer are not enough on their own but must be practiced with intentional effort and consistency. With time, these practices have the power to transform our minds, bodies, and lives, enabling us to become more like Jesus.
The Role of Community and the Holy Spirit
Community plays a vital role in spiritual formation, as it offers exposure and encouragement. It provides a context for growth, accountability, and the opportunity to become more like Jesus. Additionally, the Holy Spirit is essential in the process of transformation, leading, empowering, and guiding individuals in their journey towards Christlikeness.
Have you ever tried to change but couldn't make it last? As John Mark taught last week, we're constantly being shaped by our beliefs, habits, relationships, and environment. This week, he tells us how to fight back and create lasting transformation in our lives.
Key Scripture Passages: Luke 6v39-40; Romans 12v2; Matthew 5-7
This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Dwayne from Waianae, HI; Michael from Tyler, TX; Carine from Rogers, AR; Kyle from Waco, TX; and Scott from London,UK. Thank you all so much!
If you’d like to pay it forward and contribute toward future resources, you can learn more at practicingtheway.org/give.
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