John Mark Comer

John Mark Comer, a spiritual growth expert and former speaker, discusses the crisis in discipleship, the decline in resonance of weekend sermons and services, and how to determine real motives. They explore the underwhelming nature of Sundays, the changing culture of weddings, and the need for honesty and spiritual realism in discipleship. They also touch on the obsession with cleanliness and perfection, the concept of practicing the way, and John Mark's personal choice to stop traveling and speaking.

John Mark Comer, former pastor at Bridgetown Church in Portland, shares his vision for Practicing the Way. Topics include simplifying lives and digital cleanses, challenges and transformation of practicing the way of Jesus, the importance of meal-based small groups, gathering around a table as a spiritual discipline, and the preference for organic spiritual community.

Fasting is arguably one of the most neglected spiritual practices in the Western world. Disciples of Jesus and non-Christians alike have so many questions: What is fasting? How can I practice in a healthy way? What about body shame and eating disorders? Is it mandated in the Scriptures? Where do I start?Join us for episode 1 of the Fasting series, where we hear a roundtable discussion with John Mark Comer, Yinka Dawson, and Jarin Oda all about the practice of fasting, from its historical roots to its transforming power and even its practicalities. John Mark, Yinka, and Jarin are joined by Reward Sibanda, who shares his experience with long-term fasting.This podcast accompanies the Fasting Practice, developed by Practicing the Way. Thanks to the generosity of The Circle, all Practices are free. To learn more about The Circle or to run a Practice with your church, community, or small group, visit www.practicingtheway.org.

John Mark Comer, a pastor and author passionate about spiritual formation, delves into the essence of community and kinship. He argues that transformation occurs not in isolation but around shared meals, emulating Jesus’ vision of family among believers. Highlights include discussions on the cost of radical individualism, the prevalence of loneliness as a health crisis, and the importance of forming smaller kinship groups for spiritual growth. Comer invites listeners to embrace 'dining-room table Christianity' as a way to foster deeper relationships.

John Mark Comer, a pastor and author focused on spiritual formation, dives into Jesus' radical teachings on money and possessions. He critiques the Western cycle of 'work more, buy more,' emphasizing simplicity and generosity. Comer explores the relationship between worry and worship, using birds and flowers as examples of God's provision. He promotes living a God-centered life, suggesting that true joy comes from giving rather than accumulating possessions. His insights invite listeners to adopt and adapt these teachings in today's context.

John Mark Comer, a speaker on the practice of solitude and its importance for every disciple of Jesus, discusses the disappearing practice of solitude in today's noisy world. He explores the significance of solitude in the modern world, referencing the practices of Jesus and other spiritual figures throughout history. Comer emphasizes the need to set aside time to be with God and listen to Him, comparing it to the intimacy in a marriage. He also discusses the relationship between theology and experience in Christian spirituality, and the importance of solitude and stillness in spiritual disciplines.

John Mark Comer, a pastor and author dedicated to Christian formation, dives deep into the concept of vocation and identity. He discusses how the cultural mandate from Genesis calls everyone to be culture-makers. Listeners are guided through eight questions to uncover their God-given identities. John Mark contrasts dramatic biblical callings with the gradual discovery of vocation. He emphasizes the importance of community input and aligning work with one's true calling, ultimately encouraging a life lived in service and humility.

John Mark Comer, a pastor and author focused on Christian formation, delves into the meaning of human existence. He challenges the sacred-secular divide, urging us to view all aspects of life as inherently spiritual. Comer explores our God-given identity and purpose, stressing that work is a divine calling. He redefines work to encompass various forms of labor, from parenting to art, and highlights the deep human desire for significance. Ultimately, he inspires listeners to embrace their everyday tasks as meaningful contributions to God's garden project.

In this engaging discussion, John Mark Comer, a pastor and author dedicated to spiritual formation, redefines Sabbath as an act of resistance against modern life's busyness and consumerism. He highlights the importance of rest as a command from God, advocating for it as a means of communal justice and personal flourishing. Comer links ancient practices of Sabbath to contemporary issues like digital addiction and workplace demands, urging listeners to embrace intentional rest as a way to reclaim joy and identity beyond productivity.

John Mark Comer, author and founder of 'Practicing the Way', discusses his new book and non-profit on the Voxology podcast. They explore the importance of community in spiritual formation and the role of suffering. Comer delves into the mission of 'Practicing the Way' and expresses admiration for Tim Mackie and Tim Stafford.