In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in authors who address the complexities of Christian faith in the modern world. Among these voices, John Mark Comer has emerged as a prominent figure, prompting many to inquire about his works. This review delves into Comer’s teachings, primarily through the lens of his book, Practicing the Way, which appears to be a significant representation of his core messages and builds upon his previous writings. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of his approach, exploring both its appeals and potential areas of concern for those seeking a deeper Christian faith.
The Allure of Ancient Practices in John Mark Comer’s Books
Comer’s popularity resonates with a contemporary Christian audience that often feels disconnected from traditional church practices and yearns for a more profound spiritual experience. His books tap into a widespread sentiment that modern Evangelicalism may be lacking in depth and substance. Practicing the Way specifically addresses this longing by offering a structured program rooted in historical Christian practices. This approach is undeniably attractive to individuals who sense a gap in their faith and seek a tangible path toward spiritual growth. The appeal of Comer’s work lies in his promise of a richer, more historically grounded faith, presented in a format that is both accessible and actionable in today’s world.
Mysticism as a Cornerstone of Comer’s Spiritual Path
A key element of Comer’s theology, and a recurring theme in his books, is his embrace of mysticism. He identifies as a mystic and echoes Karl Rahner’s assertion that future Christians will need to be mystics. While Comer’s definition of mysticism remains somewhat broad – describing it as a desire to “experience spiritually what is true of them theologically” – it essentially points to an expectation of direct, unmediated encounters with God. This mystical orientation is evident in his emphasis on practices like lectio divina, contemplative prayer, meditation, stillness, and silence. He draws inspiration from a diverse array of mystical figures spanning Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Quaker traditions, including well-known names like Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, and Henri Nouwen. Furthermore, Comer integrates charismatic elements such as prophecy and deliverance, and is particularly known for promoting the concept of a “Rule of Life,” adding unique layers to his mystical framework. It’s also noteworthy that Comer acknowledges the influence of Jesuit spiritual direction, a tradition historically associated with counter-Reformation efforts against Protestant theology.
Examining the Gospel According to John Mark Comer
Comer frequently emphasizes the importance of the gospel and evangelism in his writings. However, his interpretation of the gospel diverges from traditional Evangelical understandings, particularly the doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement. He expresses strong reservations about what he perceives as the simplistic message of some street preachers focused on avoiding hell. Instead, Comer’s gospel seems to center around living like Jesus and for Jesus, with the aim of attracting others to Christ through example. This is reflected in the structure of Practicing the Way, which is organized around the core principles of “be with Jesus,” “become like him,” and “do as he did.” While Comer includes discussions of suffering for the gospel, the content of his gospel, as presented, appears less likely to provoke the kind of opposition and persecution historically associated with the Christian message.
‘Practicing the Way’: Apprenticeship and Spiritual Disciplines
Comer frames the Christian life as “the Way,” drawing parallels to the early discipleship of Jesus. He utilizes insights from figures like Rob Bell and books like Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus to illustrate Jesus as a rabbi and his followers as apprentices. This concept of apprenticeship is central to Practicing the Way and informs his approach to spiritual formation.
Being With Jesus: Embracing Mystical Practices
“Being with Jesus,” in Comer’s framework, translates into adopting mystical practices as a lifestyle, striving to cultivate a constant awareness of God’s presence – what some term “practicing the presence of God.” This involves engaging in disciplines such as lectio divina, contemplative prayer, wordless prayer, and mindfulness. It’s about actively “practicing the way” and, as highlighted in one of his earlier books, “ruthlessly eliminating hurry” to create space for God.
Becoming Like Jesus: The Journey of Spiritual Formation
“Becoming like Jesus” is presented as the pursuit of spiritual formation, a transformative process driven by resting in Christ. This inward transformation, according to Comer, leads to becoming individuals characterized by love. He defines spiritual formation as: “the process of being formed into a person of self-giving love through deepening surrender to and union with the Trinity.”
Doing As Jesus Did: Imitating Christ’s Life
“Doing as Jesus did” focuses on living a life that mirrors Jesus’s earthly ministry. It moves beyond the question of “What would Jesus do?” to a more nuanced inquiry: “What would Jesus do if he was living my life?” Comer outlines three key rhythms in this imitation: creating space for the gospel, proclaiming the gospel, and demonstrating the gospel. He describes his gospel message as centered on Jesus as the ultimate power, offering life with Him to all. This encompasses Jesus’s birth, life, teachings, miracles, death, resurrection, ascension, and the gift of the Spirit, all working towards the salvation and renewal of creation. Demonstrating this gospel, for Comer, involves acts of healing, deliverance, prophecy, and pursuing justice.
The Rule of Life: Structuring Spiritual Growth
Comer culminates his teachings in Practicing the Way with a significant section on the Rule of Life, a concept gaining traction in contemporary Christian circles. Rooted in Benedictine tradition, a Rule of Life, as Comer presents it, is less about rigid rules and more about establishing personalized disciplines to guide and structure a meaningful Christian life. These disciplines might include devotional practices, limitations on technology use, and Sabbath observance. Comer’s specific approach to the Rule of Life is characterized by its inclusion of mystical and charismatic practices, while notably omitting explicit emphasis on evangelistic proclamation or intellectual engagement with Christian doctrine. Furthermore, his vision of Christian community seems to deviate from traditional local churches, leaning towards alternative community models reminiscent of the Emerging Church movement, though concrete details remain somewhat vague.
Concerns and Potential Trajectories of Comer’s Teachings
For those familiar with Christian literature from the Emergent Church era two decades prior, many of Comer’s themes and concerns will likely sound familiar. While it might be premature to label Comer’s movement as “Emergent 2.0,” there are undeniable parallels in their critiques of Evangelicalism, their embrace of similar influences, and their foundational values. This raises the question of whether Comer’s teachings might follow a similar trajectory, potentially evolving in directions that become increasingly detached from biblical fidelity and orthodox Christian faith. While Comer offers valid critiques and helpful practices, there are also aspects of his teachings that raise concerns. The potential for individuals seeking deeper faith to be drawn into a system that ultimately leads them away from recognizable Christianity is a significant consideration. Comer’s approach presents not merely an alternative set of practices within Christianity, but potentially a departure towards a different gospel and a fundamentally altered faith.
A Call for Discernment Regarding John Mark Comer Books
In conclusion, while John Mark Comer’s books address genuine longings within contemporary Christianity and offer potentially valuable insights and practices, a discerning approach is warranted. Readers should carefully consider the potential implications of embracing his teachings. Following Comer’s counsel may necessitate significant shifts in one’s theological understanding, devotional life, church involvement, and even understanding of the gospel itself. The cost of fully adopting his way, arguably, is substantial, potentially requiring a departure from core tenets of traditional Christian faith. Therefore, exercising caution and critically evaluating Comer’s teachings in light of Scripture and orthodox Christian doctrine is strongly advised for those considering integrating his perspectives into their spiritual journey.
