John Mark Comer Teachings

Is the world getting worse? Or better? John Mark explores how the world is progressing materially and technologically, but regressing psychologically, relationally, and spiritually. He shows how, even in the midst of the good and the bad of the human condition, the resurrection of Jesus opens the door for us to live the life we're longing for. Key Scripture Passage: Romans 8v18-25This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Alissa from Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Terry from Dublin, Georgia; Jacob from Edmond, Oklahoma; John and Vicki from Bend, Oregon; and Vanassa from Los Angeles, California. 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.

Gavin Bennett, Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Bridgetown Church, dives into the theme of fruitfulness in the Gospels. He explores how to live fruitful lives by stewarding all aspects of ourselves, even the overlooked areas. Bennett discusses the challenges of interpreting complex biblical passages, advocating for deep engagement through prayer and meditation. He emphasizes the importance of being present in our daily lives and committed to serving our communities, encouraging listeners to recognize their worth and cultivate the gifts God has entrusted to them.

Discover the challenging yet rewarding nature of compassion in everyday life. Dive into the Good Samaritan parable, revealing how love often requires action despite inconvenience. Christian Dawson shares personal stories and humor, showcasing the importance of mercy in relationships and faith. Explore the transformative power of spiritual disciplines and the call to actively serve neighbors, especially those marginalized. This engaging discussion invites you to reflect on your role in embodying love and community.

Tyler Staton, a passionate advocate for community and faith, shares a vision of loving our neighbors amidst modern challenges. He explores the importance of sacrificial love and the power of prayer in facing suffering. Staton delves into the historic role of Celtic monasteries in fostering urban unity and education, reflecting on the complexities of living out faith in cities today. He also discusses how spiritual surrender and inviting the Holy Spirit can transform lives, encouraging deeper connections and genuine faith responses in chaotic times.

Join Tyler Staton, Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church, as he dives deep into Jesus' teachings on wealth and generosity. He warns against the seductive power of money and stresses the importance of serving the poor over accumulating riches. Exploring themes of community connection, true rest through selflessness, and the deceptive nature of materialism, Tyler encourages listeners to embrace radical generosity as a path to spiritual fulfillment. Discover how living in generosity can transform lives and deepen relationships with God and others.

Bethany Allen, an Elder and Associate Pastor at Bridgetown Church, dives into the complexities of living as a family in faith. She discusses the barriers to meaningful connections and the importance of vulnerability. Highlighting Jesus' invitation to redefine family, she examines personal dynamics that affect relationships and the transformative power of authenticity. Through personal anecdotes, Bethany encourages listeners to confront their limitations and embrace deeper connections within their communities for growth and healing.

Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author on spiritual formation, shares powerful insights on spiritual growth. He emphasizes love as the ultimate goal, urging listeners to measure their spiritual health through the fruit of their actions. Staton addresses common pitfalls that hinder this growth, discussing the importance of compassion over legalism. He explores Jesus' teachings on mercy and inclusivity, challenging us to embody love in our communities. Finally, he highlights the art of presence in conversations as crucial for deeper connections.

What if fear didn't hold you back? The discussion dives into cultivating a profound inner peace as a divine gift amid life's turmoil. It reflects on the early Christian community's understanding of peace as a transformative state, contrasted with our modern struggles. Hear inspiring stories of resilience, like a cellist in wartime Sarajevo, showcasing hope and healing through courage. Practical advice for nurturing your spiritual connection and embracing inner calm in a chaotic world adds depth to this enriching conversation.

Dr. John H. Walton, Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College, brings a fresh perspective on interpreting the Old Testament. He highlights common missteps readers make when approaching Scripture, urging a contextual understanding. Walton emphasizes the Bible’s divine authority and narrative structure as foundational. He discusses the importance of storytelling in biblical texts, revealing deeper theological insights. Listeners are encouraged to engage with Scripture more deeply, enhancing their spiritual journey and connection to God's story.

Gerald Griffin, pastor of Bridgetown Church and coaching coordinator at Practicing the Way, dives deep into the lessons from King Saul's life. He discusses how failures can serve as transformative opportunities, emphasizing the importance of identity rooted in faith. Gerald challenges listeners to view failure not as an endpoint but as a stepping stone toward growth and redemption. He shares his personal journey of finding value beyond accomplishments and encourages self-discovery through connection with God.