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 8v18-25 This 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.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

What does it mean to be fruitful, and how do we do live fruitful lives? Gavin Bennett, Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Bridgetown Church, talks about the theme of fruitfulness throughout the Gospels, challenging us to steward our entire lives as gifts from God – even the areas that we feel aren't worth stewarding. Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 25v 14-30, Matthew 21v18-22 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Scott from Reading, Massachusetts; Rachel from Richardson, Texas; Brandon from Peoria, Illinois; Joanne from Lebanon, Ohio; and Mallory from Peoria, Arizona. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

"Compassion isn't convenient or easy."Christian Dawson, Pastor of Worship at Bridgetown Church, explores the parable of the Good Samaritan, challenging us to embody love and lean into compassion for others, even when it's inconvenient. Key Scripture Passage: Luke 10v25-37 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Adam from New Braunfels, Texas; Liz from Tihiotonga, Rotorua; Melissa from Hastings, Minnesota; James from Irving, Texas; and Megan from Norwich, Norfolk. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

How can we live out Jesus' vision for our cities amidst the complexities of modern life? In this teaching, Tyler Staton offers us a compelling vision for loving our neighbors and communities, both acknowledging the obstacles we must overcome in living that vision and challenging us to reorient our values and priorities around the Kingdom of God rather than our broader culture. Key Scripture Passage: Romans 12v2-3 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Scott from Reading, Massechussetts; Rachel from Richardson, Texas; Brandon from Peoria, Illinois; Joanne from Lebanon, Ohio; and Mallory from Peoria, Arizona. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

"Wealth quickly becomes destructive for those who don't respect its power."Tyler Staton, Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church, examines Jesus' teaching that "you cannot serve God and Mammon." He shows us how wealth promises what it can't deliver, and encourages us to defy the deformative power of money by serving the poor, practicing generosity, and dying to our false selves. Key Scripture Passage: Matthew 6v19-24 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Deborah from Abingdon, UK; Sydney from Bothell, Washington; Elizabeth from Grapevine, Texas; Brittany from Houston, Texas; and Tim from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

What keeps us from meaningful connection? Bethany Allen, Elder and Associate Pastor at Bridgetown Church, talks about what obstacles we face when walking out Jesus' invitation to live like family, challenging us to face our limits and become truly vulnerable in our close relationships. Key Scripture Passage: Mark 3v31-35 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Mary Jane from Lithia Springs, Georgia; Chloe from Lakewood, Colorado; Colton from Flagstaff, Arizona; Graham from Clarkesville, Georgia; and Sara from Cedar Falls, Iowa. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

How do you measure your spiritual growth? Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church, tracks the theme of fruit and fruitfulness through the gospel of Matthew, showing us that for Jesus, love is the goal of spiritual formation. Tyler shares common ways that we lose sight of this goal and challenges us to reorient our spiritual practices around becoming people of love. Key Scripture Passage: Matthew 7v15-20, Matthew 12v1-37, Matthew 22v34-40, Matthew 20v29-33 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Sarah from Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Jenny from Eagan, Minnesota; Andrew from Fort Wayne, Indiana; Kathy from Keizer, Oregon; and Kevin from Pleasanton, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

"What would you do if you weren't afraid?" John Mark delves into the idea that true peace is more than the absence of conflict—it is a profound inner state offered as a gift from God. He encourages listeners to cultivate this peace of heart as a vital part of their discipleship and witness in a world filled with fear and anxiety. Key Scripture Passage: John 20v19-22 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: John from Chapin, South Carolina; Corey from Hixson, Tennessee; Dalton from Liberty, Kentucky; Nick from San Antonio, Texas; and Rhonda from San Jose, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

Where does our reading of the Old Testament go wrong? Dr. John H. Walton, professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College, exposes some of the common missteps that we take when interpreting Scripture, encouraging us to approach Scripture as it is, and not as we'd imagine it to be. Key Scripture Passage: Hebrews 12v1-2 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Jennifer from Menifee, California; Ian from Denton, Texas; Jana from Flowery Branch, Georgia; Kyle from Prescott, Arizona; and Michele from Mooloolaba Valley, Queensland. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

What should we do when we fail? Gerald Griffin, pastor of Bridgetown Church, looks at the story of King Saul. Through this story, Gerald encourages us to remain rooted in our God-given identities, and to turn toward God for transformation when we fall short. Key Scripture Passages: 1 Samuel 9-15 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kyle from Renton, Washington; Bryson from Atlanta, Georgia; Erin from Midland, Texas; Jac from Cardiff, Wales; and Hudson from Nashville, Tennessee. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Are the odd stories in Scripture relevant to us at all? In this teaching, John Mark dives into the historical books, showing how these stories were written for our benefit, and encouraging us to embrace the hope of God's faithfulness in the midst of our failure. Key Scripture Passages: 2 Samuel 2v8-28, 1 Corinthians 10v1-13 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Fiona from Columbia, Tennessee; Dakotah from Sydney, New South Wales; Alexis from Albany, New York; Heather from Bangor, Maine; and Julianne from Center, Colorado. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

"What if the instant supernatural power of the Holy Spirit and the slow formative power of spiritual practices work in complement to one another, not competition?"In this teaching, Tyler Staton shows us the essential role that the Holy Spirit plays in our formation. He argues that formative practice and supernatural power are not conflicting ministries, inviting us to return the the roots of our faith by holding these two expressions in tandem. The Familiar Stranger, Tyler's newest book, is available now for pre-order, releasing on January 28th. Find it here, or wherever books are sold. Key Scripture Passage: John 14-17 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Bronwyn from Delaware, Ohio; Clint from Little Rock, Arkansas; Samuel from Auckland, New Zealand; Tamara from West Linn, Oregon; and Brandon from Waxahachie, Texas. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

Can we be happy in the midst of our suffering? John Mark argues that meaning, more than being happy or healthy, is our core need as humans, and that suffering is one of the primary ways that we live into that meaning. He challenges us to embrace suffering as the forge of our transformation into Christ-like love, where true joy can be found. Key Scripture Passage: Job 23v1-10 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Scott from Wesley Chapel, Florida; Joshua from Cape May Court House, New Jersey; Micah from Tawin Harte, California; Sarah from Winchester, Virginia; and Craig from Crystal Lake, Illinois. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 10 January 2025

Why do bad things happen to good people? John Mark tackles the question of theodicy and God's justice in this series covering the wisdom literature. This week, he explores the book of Job, and challenges us to embrace the mystery of God, continuing to put our faith and hope in him in the midst of suffering. Key Scripture Passages: Job 1-42 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Julie from Woodinville, Washington; Shana from Denver, Colorado; Kaylyn from Lakewood, Colorado; Sarah from Cincinnati, Ohio; and Spencer from Bedford, Texas. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 3 January 2025

How can we live with more joy? Ken Shigematsu explores how the good news of Jesus' birth is cause for celebration and happiness. He challenges us to draw near to the source of joy, God himself, and savor his blessings to allow his joy to saturate our hearts and minds. Key Scripture Passages: Luke 1v46-49, Luke 2v10-11, Luke 2v19, 1 Corinthians 2v9 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Tone from Stavanger, Norway; Katie from Lexington, Kentucky; Bobby from Stafford, Virginia; Logan from Raleigh, North Carolina; and Tyler from Smyrna, Tennessee. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

Why are we so anxious? Ken Shigematsu invites us to reflect on what Advent teaches about peace of heart. Drawing on Scripture, personal stories, and research, he shows how recognizing and living into God's love can help us move beyond fear and into resilient peace amidst a chaotic world. Key Scripture Passage: Luke 1v30-21, Luke 2v19 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Jeremy from Gaithersburg, Maryland; Rick from Anacortes, Washington; Charles from Norman, Oklahoma; Jeroen from Groningen, Netherlands; and Veronica from Austin, Texas. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

How do we remain hopeful in a world that's falling apart? Ken Shigematsu reflects on the paradox of Advent, where light meets darkness and hope confronts despair. He challenges us to look honestly at our realities, confront the brutal facts, and find unshakable hope in Christ's first coming and promised return. Key Scripture Passages: Luke 21v25-28; Isaiah 9v1-2, 6; Mark 13v7-8, 24-26 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Gregg from Monona, Wisconsin; Angie from Pflugerville, Texas, Matthew from Milpitas, California;; Kathleen from Flower Mound, Texas; and Misael from Anniston, Alabama. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 13 December 2024

Changing our relationship with money is one of the first and most important steps of living as followers of Jesus. In this episode, John Mark explores Jesus' teachings on generosity to the poor. He challenges us to reexamine our preference for accumulation and offers practical ways to share our resources with those in need. Key Scripture Passage: Luke 12v13-34 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Pam from Thornton, Colorado; Jeremy from Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Courtney from Fayetteville, Arkansas; Kevin from Richardson, Texas; and Joshua from Huntington Beach, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024

"What does it mean to steward God's resources?" John Mark explores Jesus’ countercultural teachings on generosity and stewardship, challenging us to view everything we own as a gift from God, meant to be managed with wisdom and love. Key Scripture Passages: Luke 12v13-48, 2 Corinthians 9v7-11 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Farzad from San Diego, California; Abigail from Tahlequah, Oklahoma; Heather from Lexington, Kentucky; Julie from Dallas, Texas; Emily from Verona, Virginia. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024

John Mark explores Jesus and the New Testament authors warning against the love of money and greed, showing us that money is often an obstacle, not a boon, to the good life. He argues us that true happiness is found not in more money, but in being content with what we have. Key Scripture Passage: 1 Timothy 6v6-19 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kyle from Fountain Valley, California; Ian from Melbourne, Florida; Clay from Randleman, North Carolina; Alan from Sacramento, California; and Karen from Chicago, Illinois. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 22 November 2024

Does more money mean more happiness? John Mark walks through some of Jesus's surprising teachings on money, showing us how social science affirms the fact that generosity, not accumulation, leads to joy. He challenges us to reflect on whether we have an abundance or scarcity mindset, and invites us to deepen our trust in God's generosity. Key Scripture Passage: Matthew 6v19-24, Acts 20v35 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Stephanie from Castle Rock, Colorado; Amy from Salem, Oregon; Stephanie from Nashville, Tennessee; Grant from Polk City, Iowa; and Kalan from Crofton, British Columbia. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 15 November 2024

Why is there such a disconnect between who we want to be and what we actually do? In this second of two conversations with Ger Jones of Vintage Church LA, John Mark and Ger discuss the practice of contemplation. John Mark argues that we overestimate the ability of willpower and insight to change us. Instead, he offers us three doorways into the practice of contemplation and practical suggestions for integrating this practice in our lives.You can read more in the expanded hardcover edition of John Mark’s book God Has a Name, now available wherever books are sold. Key Scripture Passage: 2 Corinthians 3v18 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Jana from Richardson, Texas; Janet from Liberty Lake, Washington; Allysa from Nipomo, California; Ryan from Dallas, Texas; and Anita from Anchorage, Alaska. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 8 November 2024

Do we project our own ideas onto God? In this first of two conversations with Ger Jones of Vintage Church LA, John Mark and Ger explore the significance of God having a name and how God's self-disclosure often contradicts our assumptions. They challenge us to re-examine and adjust our implicit knowledge of God by reckoning with God's character revealed in Scripture. You can read more in the expanded hardcover edition of John Mark’s book God Has a Name, now available wherever books are sold. Key Scripture Passage: Exodus 34v6-7 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kathryn from Amarillo, Texas; Kristen from Brentwood, Tennessee; Cole from Brush Prairie, Washington; Sarah from Waco, Texas; and Ian from Whitestown, Indiana. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2024

Do we project our own ideas onto God? In this first of two conversations with Ger Jones of Vintage Church LA, John Mark and Ger explore the significance of God having a name and how God's self-disclosure often contradicts our assumptions. They challenge us to re-examine and adjust our implicit knowledge of God by reckoning with God's character revealed in Scripture. You can read more in the expanded hardcover edition of John Mark’s book God Has a Name, now available wherever books are sold. Key Scripture Passage: Exodus 34v6-7 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kathryn from Amarillo, Texas; Kristen from Brentwood, Tennessee; Cole from Brush Prairie, Washington; Sarah from Waco, Texas; and Ian from Whitestown, Indiana. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2024

Do you represent God well? John Mark explores God's final characteristic: jealous, like a passionate husband protecting his bride. As he tracks this theme throughout the Scriptures, he leaves us with a prophetic invitation to carry the name of Yahweh into every sphere of our lives. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 34v6-14, Deuteronomy 28v1-10, Exodus 19v1-6, Leviticus 19v1-18, Exodus 20v1-7, Ezekiel 36v16-23 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Gracey from Chicago, Illinois; Andrew from Madison, Wisconsin; Tracy from Cape Town, South Africa; Anders from Hood River, Oregon; and Chuck from Springfield, Illinois. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 25 October 2024

Does God punish children for their parent's sin? John Mark explores the final section of Exodus 34v6-7, highlighting the beauty of God's justice, the gravity of sin, and God's overwhelming proclivity towards forgiveness and mercy over wrath and judgment. Key Scripture Passage: Exodus 34v6-7, Numbers 14v11-23, Matthew 18v21-35 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Camie from Roswell, Georgia; Violet from Dayton, Ohio; Alayna from Inman, South Carolina; John from Raleigh, North Carolina; and John from Omaha, Nebraska. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2024

"We think of God's love and God's anger as at odds with one another. That's because we don't understand God's love or God's anger."John Mark challenges our perceptions of God, both the God who is always angry and the God who never gets angry, by showing in the Scriptures how God is both patient and wrathful, and why both are important for our understanding of who God is and what that means for us in our lives. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 34v6-7, Matthew 21v12-14, James 1v19-20, 5v7-8 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Melody from Cerritos, California; Jason from Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Merideth from Carrollton, Georgia; Jordan from Falls Church, Virginia; and Kai from Costa Mesa, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 11 October 2024

"We all love that God is compassionate and gracious, but what about when God is compassionate and gracious to people you hate?" John Mark walks us through the passages demonstrating the scandalous compassion and graciousness of God, inviting us to imitate God by extending compassion and grace to others in our lives. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 34v6-7, Jonah 1-4, Luke 17v11-19, Luke 18v35-43, Luke 15v11-32, Luke 6v35-36 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Carma from Columbus, Ohio; Sam from Sioux Center, Iowa; Kathy from Coupeville, Washington; Joshua from Holt, Michigan; and Jeannette from Chichester, West Sussex. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 4 October 2024

Why does God need a name in the first place? John Mark argues that it's because there are many "gods". He surveys scripture passages relating to gods and demonic beings, not only warning us that they are real and should never be worshipped, but that Yahweh is the one true creator God and is higher than them all. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 34v6-7, Exodus 12v12, Exodus 15v11, Exodus 20v2-4, Psalm 82, Mark 5v1-13, Ephesians 6v10-12 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kayla from Nanaimo, British Columbia; Ross & Allison from Salem, Oregon; Josiah from Bartlesville, Oklahoma; Church on the Rock in Huntley, Illinois; and Jenna from Columbia Heights, Minnesota. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 27 September 2024

Who is God? John Mark dives deep into God's name, Yahweh, and the significance that holds for what he's like: a consistent God who wants to be in relationship with us. Key Scripture Passage: Exodus 34v6-7, Exodus 33v7-23, Genesis 17v1-5, Exodus 3v1-18 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Julie from Dallas, Texas; Luke from Springfield, Missouri; Phoebe from Hokowhitu, New Zealand; Leigh from Robinson, Texas; and Joe from Portland, Oregon. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 20 September 2024

What comes to mind when you hear the word church? John Mark challenges us to rethink our definition, exploring the deeper meaning of church as the "called out ones," a new humanity formed by Jesus to carry the kingdom of God to every corner of the world. He calls us to see church as a family that embodies the kingdom of God through everyday relationships, practices, and a shared mission to spread God's kingdom. Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 10v1-7, Matthew 16v13-18, Acts 1v6-9, Acts 2v1-4,41-47 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Isabella from Bridgeville, Pennsylvania; Austin from Marshall, Minnesota; Sierra from Palermo, Maine; Andrew from Colbert, Washington; and LifeHouse Church in Mississauga, Ontario. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 13 September 2024

Why is the world so messed up? John Mark reflects on the reality of the world's dysfunction and how the story of the Fall in Genesis explains humanity's descent into chaos. He challenges us to reconsider our understanding of sin, its origins, and its impact on our lives, ultimately pointing to Jesus as our only hope for overcoming sin and its consequences. Key Scripture Passage: Genesis 3v1-21 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Maggie from San Antonio, Texas; Doug from Signal Mountain, Tennessee; Heidi from Cincinnati, Ohio; Sarah from Voorheesville, New York; and Johnny from La Barge, Wyoming. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2024

The Generosity Practice is out now. Check it out at practicingtheway.org/generosity. "Generosity is more than giving; it's an act of trust." Ger Jones, lead pastor of Vintage Church, explores the deeper implications of generosity in the life of a disciple. He challenges the common views of generosity tied to wealth and obligation, urging us to see it as a practice that reshapes our hearts and lives. By reflecting on the biblical foundations and the transformative power of giving, he invites us to reimagine generosity as an opportunity to grow in trust, freedom, and love. Key Scripture Passages: 2 Corinthians 8v1-9, 2 Corinthians 9v6-11 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Kelsey from St. Petersburg, Florida; Russell from Snohomish, Washington; Abby from Yorba Linda, California; Michael from Elgin, Illinois; and Dan from Dover, Delaware. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2024

"What if fasting could break our hearts open to the suffering of the world and move us to action?"John Mark explores the connection between fasting and justice, urging us to consider how this ancient practice can realign our hearts with God's care for the poor. He challenges us to move beyond a self-focused spirituality and enter into a deeper solidarity with those in need. Key Scripture Passage: Isaiah 58v1-12 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Ashley from Nashville, Tennessee; Abigail from Calgary, Alberta; Cory from Battle Ground, Washington; David from Knoxville, Tennessee; and Danielle from Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2024

Do you ever feel like your prayers aren't heard? In a world where we often feel disconnected from God's voice, fasting can be a powerful tool to hear and be heard by Heaven. John Mark explores the interplay between prayer and fasting, uncovering how these two ancient practices flow together and compliment the work of transformation in our lives. Key Scripture Passage: Acts 13v1-3, Jonah 3v5-10 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Brendan from Decatur, Alabama; Thalia from Powell Butte, Oregon; Luke from Missoula, Montana; Robert from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and James from Scotts Valley, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2024

How can we overcome sin when our willpower isn't enough? John Mark talks about how fasting is one way to help us grow in self-control, and the ripple effect that can have throughout our whole lives. Key Scripture Passage: Romans 7v15-8v1 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Melanie from Dothan, Alabama; Evan from Westminster, Colorado; Shaylana from Dallas, Texas; Peter from Howell, Michigan; and Bob from Salem, Oregon. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 9 August 2024

Why should we fast? John Mark outlines the history of fasting in the Christian tradition, and argues that we don't fast to bio-hack our way to holiness, but rather to expose our weakness where God meets us. Key Scripture Passage: Matthew 6v16-18 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Lena from Nashville, Tennessee; Robert from Marietta, Georgia; Adam from Norton Shores, Michigan; Miles from Waco, Texas; and Jared from High Ridge, Missouri. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 2 August 2024

How do we sabbath well? John Mark highlights four common words associated with the word “shabbat”: stop, rest, delight, and worship, showing us how these four words give us clues on how to best open ourselves up to the life God offers us through this practice. Key Scripture Passages: Mark 2v23-28; Mark 3v1-6 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Beverly from Pearland, Texas; Pamela from Coppell, Texas; James from Oceanside, California; Kerri from Tallahassee, Florida; and Maria from Solvang, 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.

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2024

Do you think of Sabbath as a weapon? In a culture that is addicted to the twin drugs of accomplishment and accumulation, Sabbath is how we “fight” back against Egypt, Pharaoh, and his empire. Join us as John Mark continues his biblical theology on Sabbath with an exploration of work and rest in the story of the Exodus. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 20v8; Deuteronomy 5v12-15; Nehemiah 13v15-22 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Mical from Statesville, North Carolina; Taylor from Granger, Washington; Tim from Burbage, Leicestershire; Emily from Portland, Oregon; and Brendon from Doha, Qatar.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.

Transcribed - Published: 19 July 2024

What makes the Sabbath different from the rest of the week? John Mark continues exploring a biblical theology of Sabbath, demonstrating how Sabbath is woven throughout creation as a rhythm for us to follow, and encouraging us to embrace the gift of this practice with delight. Key Scripture Passages: Genesis 1v31-2:3; Exodus 16v9-30; Exodus 20v1-8 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Philip from Coupeville, Washington; Paul from Richardson, Texas; Alyssa from Denver, Colorado; Tanya from Australia, Washington; and Pauline from Sewickley, Pennsylvania. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2024

Are you tired? In our world filled with fast-paced digital technology, what do we do to combat the restlessness that corrodes at our soul? John Mark teaches on how the practice of Sabbath can help us embody the peace of Jesus in our lives and and radically change our walk with God. Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 11v28-30; Hebrews 4v1-11 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Tom from Kremmling, Colorado; Daniel from Orange, New South Wales; John from Albuquerque, New Mexico; Crystal from Perth, Washington; and Rebekah from Nesbit, Mississippi. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2024

What do you do when you hit a wall in your apprenticeship to Jesus? Beau Hughes, lead pastor of The Village Church, Denton, interviews John Mark and Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church, Flower Mound about their journeys of discipleship and formation. Together, John Mark and Matt encourage us to open our lives for God to bring transformation in the deepest part of our selves. This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Ekaterina from La Mirada, California; Matthew from Hagerstown, Maryland; Katrina from West Linn, Oregon; Chris from Austin, Texas; and Ruth from Hamilton, Michigan. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2024

What do you do when you hit a wall in your apprenticeship to Jesus? Beau Hughes, lead pastor of The Village Church, Denton, interviews John Mark and Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church, Flower Mound about their journeys of discipleship and formation. Together, John Mark and Matt encourage us to open our lives for God to bring transformation in the deepest part of our selves. This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Ekaterina from La Mirada, California; Matthew from Hagerstown, Maryland; Katrina from West Linn, Oregon; Chris from Austin, Texas; and Ruth from Hamilton, Michigan. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2024

How do we become resilient disciples of Jesus? Gavin Bennett shares a vision for how a Rule of Life can shape us and our communities into people of love. He challenges us to resist the temptations to make a Rule of Life about control, busyness, duty, or enthusiasm, and instead encourages us to lean into the invitations of the Spirit and Jesus's easy yoke. Key Scripture Passage: John 15v1-5 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Spencer from New York, New York; Macy from Atlanta, Georgia; Jenni from Portland, Oregon; Todd from Fabius, New York; and Judy from Fort Worth, Texas. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 21 June 2024

Why a Rule of Life? Tyler Staton explains the why and the what behind a Rule of Life, outlining the biblical, historical, and practical roots of this practice. He argues that a Rule of Life is essential for us to preserve the new wine of God's grace in this cultural moment with new wineskins. Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 9v14-17, Psalm 56v12-13, Acts 2v42-47. This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Joe from Huntsville, Alabama; Joshua from Columbus, Ohio; Caleb from Crystal, Minnesota; Jessica from Challenge, California; and Tanner from Moncton, New Brunswick. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 14 June 2024

What does it look like to witness in our culture? Tre' Giles walks us through three ways to witness to others: spoken love, supernatural love, and sacrificial love, and challenges us to live our lives in a way that demonstrates the good news of Jesus to others. Key Scripture Passages: Acts 1v8; Colossians 1v12-14; Matthew 3v16-17; Matthew 9v9-13; Luke 23v38-43 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Josh from Lubbock, Texas; Ernest from Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Carl and Aline from Plantation, Florida; John from Scarborough, Ontario; and Shannon from Charleston, South Carolina. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 7 June 2024

"Sabbath rest empowers resurrection work." In a world filled with burnout, exhaustion, and shallow indulgence, Tyler Staton argues that Sabbath is a practice to reform our relationship with work and rest - helping us work with God and receive rest as a gift from him. Highlighting the scriptural foundations and formational purpose of this practice, he highlights the future hope that we live into as we stop and rest. Key Scripture Passage: Genesis 2v1-3; Exodus 20v8-11; Exodus 31v17; Deuteronomy 5v12-15; John 7v21-24; Psalm 127v1-2 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Jon from Odessa, Texas; Nickie from Kansas City, Missouri; Katie from Portland, Oregon; Catherine from Medford, Massachusetts; and Amy from Arlington, Virginia. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2024

Are our hands so full of money that we can't receive the generosity of God? Gavin Bennett argues that how we handle money is key to our apprenticeship to Jesus. He shows us that when our generosity is rooted in God's generosity, we can more fully step into our role as stewards of the resources God's entrusted to us. Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 13v44-46; Matthew 6v24; Matthew 15v15-22; Matthew 19v16-26 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Colin from Houston, Texas; Tyler from Ankeny, Iowa; Allison from Altamonte Springs, Florida; Jason from Allen, Texas; and Rebecca from Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2024

What if serving others is more rewarding than we think? Bethany Allen argues that we often only consider the costs of service, but rarely consider the deeper rewards it brings: lasting joy and fulfillment. She not only encourages us to see and sacrifice for one another in service, but also offers us five principles to guide as we serve. Key Scripture Passage: Luke 10v25-37 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Cory from Akron, Ohio; Paul from New Castle, Indiana; Katie from Westfield, Indiana; Michael and Amanda from Austin, Texas; and Skylar from Scottsdale, Arizona. 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.

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2024

What does not eating have to do with following Jesus? Tyler Staton breaks down the "why" of fasting: how it can help us focus on what's most important, give us freedom from idols in our lives, and grow us in compassion for others. Key Scripture Passages: Romans 12v1 This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Goolam from Claremont, South Africa; Andrew from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; Carli from Chandler, Arizona; Casey from Juliette, Georgia; and Keith from Rockwell, North Carolina.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.

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024