John Mark Comer Teachings

What do you draw on when life gets tough? The transformative power of memorizing Scripture is explored as a means for spiritual growth and resilience. The speaker shares insights on the significance of internalizing Jesus' final words and the ancient prophecies linked to them. There's a focus on overcoming negative thought patterns through conscious mental direction and the importance of building an 'inner library' of verses. Daily practice of memorization is encouraged to deepen one's relationship with God, fostering a community of support.

Dive into the intriguing complexities of Bible study and discover how context, language, and literary forms can lead to transformative understanding. Explore the disconnect between owning a Bible and regular reading, especially among millennials. Learn from Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness about the importance of accurately interpreting scripture. Embrace the Bible's cohesive narrative to connect more deeply with its teachings. Plus, discover how literary fiction can enrich your spiritual journey and why love should drive your study.

Discover the art of meditating on Scripture and how it can reshape your spiritual journey. The discussion navigates the impact of digital distractions on deep reading, emphasizing the importance of slowing down. Key insights from Psalm 1 and the role of biblical texts in understanding Jesus' resurrection are explored. Learn about ancient practices like Lectio Divina and how meditative reading fosters a personal connection with God. This transformative approach advocates for a meaningful dialogue with scripture in our fast-paced lives.

This engaging discussion invites listeners to rediscover Scripture as a profound encounter with Jesus rather than just information. It explores the legacy of William Tyndale, who made the Bible accessible to English speakers. The transformative power of personal engagement with scripture is emphasized, with practical tips for deeper reflection. Listeners are encouraged to approach reading with mindfulness and prayer, fostering a closer relationship with the divine while navigating the challenges of modern life. Community support and resources are also highlighted.

What does it truly mean to be holy? The discussion unfolds with an exploration of spiritual poverty, revealing how recognizing our powerlessness can lead to transformation. Delving into the life of a former pagan who became a bishop, the talk emphasizes the evolution of faith. Incremental growth is embraced as a vital aspect of spiritual development, urging patience and humility. Finally, the call to lean on community and the guidance of the Spirit underscores that even the smallest steps can pave the way to profound spiritual journeys.

Tyler Staton, a dynamic speaker, wraps up the series with deep insights into Jesus' humble love. He invites listeners to embrace Jesus' practices as a means of transformation from their false selves to their true identities. The conversation dives into the significance of foot washing as a model for service and humility. There’s also a compelling exploration of love over law regarding Sabbath practices, and how selflessness can lead to psychological fulfillment, ultimately cultivating a new social order rooted in God's presence.

Explore the intricate dynamics of forgiveness, from the parable of the unmerciful servant to personal stories of mercy. Discover how to embrace forgiveness as a path to true justice while navigating personal trauma and societal injustices. Delve into the power of lament and imprecation in prayer, offering an avenue for emotional expression. Finally, reflect on the journey of redemption and healing in relationships, highlighting the shared responsibility of giving and receiving forgiveness.

Tyler Staton, a thoughtful minister and author, dives into the idea of joy and inclusivity in Jesus' teachings. He unpacks the parable of the wedding feast, urging listeners to embrace the transformative power of celebrating with those who feel marginalized. Staton reflects on the importance of shared meals in building community, showcasing how genuine connections can lead to spiritual growth. He emphasizes that authentic faith means reaching out compassionately, challenging the elitism often found in modern churches, and fostering joy through shared experiences.

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.