Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did.

One of the best books I have read in ages! Love how well the writer takes us through the journey of being Jesus's disciples!

If you’ve ever played the violin or been attuned to music you know if the violin string is off key even a little bit, it can turn a beautiful song into an unbearable experience. John Comer’s book Practicing the Way is the tuner that we all need in our walk with Jesus. In this analogy (inspired by the many beautiful analogies he gives throughout the book) many of us can be and sometimes are out-of-tune violins when it comes to our faith. Some of us are almost there, some of us are playing our own song in whatever tune we have. But as a bible believing Christian who tries (and fails many times) to follow Christ, this book is the perfect auto tuner. The book helps you get onto your path in a very conscious and categorical way. What I really enjoyed was looking at the context and history of Jesus the Rabbi and what a privilege it really was for the disciples to be called by him (and what a privilege it is for us too). Every chapter is an insight with tools on why and how to come closer to Jesus. John Mark Comer’s approach to this is conversational and he takes you through this mind and helps you navigate how to “Be with Jesus.Become like him.” and “Do as he did.” This is also the tag line for this book. I loved the nine practices he goes through, Sabbath, Solitude, Prayer, Fasting, Scripture, Community, Generosity, Service and Witness. It gives you such an easy- to-remember check list to help you keep yourself accountable in your path. I enjoyed the ease of which there is absolutely no churchy “pressure” but a passionate implore where he breaks down ‘how and why’ this practice can benefit our lives as Christians not just who passionately know Jesus, but Christians who are struggling to follow Jesus everyday and people who don’t know Jesus yet. What stood out for me personally was how much he talks about taking to account the season you’re in, and do things in the way you can (“don’t fight against your season, work with it”). Because not everyone can be great missionaries leaving their homes and starting a new life like Amy Carmichael or William Carey. The book encouraged me to look at my life and see what my limitations are and how I can trim things off and add things to be a better follower of Jesus Christ. Not everything he speaks about can be applied immediately but the gentle way he takes you through the path, makes you want to try with baby steps at least. I know after reading Practicing the Way by John Comer I’m starting to tune my violin closer to the sound its meant to be, and the best thing (thanks to this book) my fine tuned beautiful melodious harmonious music will bring me close to Christ and give glory to Him. I really enjoyed the book.

Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did. Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did is a transformative guide for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus and live out His teachings in practical, everyday life. Whether you're a new believer or someone looking to renew their faith, this book offers valuable insights on how to truly "practice the way" of Christ in a modern world. Clear and Actionable Approach One of the standout features of Practicing the Way is its straightforward, actionable approach. The book is structured around three core principles: being with Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing as He did. The author takes readers through each of these steps, offering clear explanations and practical exercises that help individuals embody these principles in their daily lives. The book’s focus on real-world application makes it easy to follow and implement. Holistic Discipleship What sets this book apart is its emphasis on holistic discipleship. It isn’t just about knowing more about Jesus; it’s about growing in relationship with Him and reflecting His character in all aspects of life. The author challenges readers to integrate spiritual practices, such as prayer, solitude, and service, into their routines, helping them align their hearts and actions with Christ’s example. Engaging and Relatable The writing style is accessible, making complex spiritual concepts easy to understand and apply. The author uses relatable anecdotes and scripture passages to bring the teachings of Jesus into everyday situations, encouraging readers to live with intention and purpose. It’s evident that the book is written with a heart for helping others grow closer to Christ and live out the Gospel in tangible ways. Spiritual Transformation Practicing the Way is not just a theoretical study; it’s a call to action. The book encourages spiritual transformation by inviting readers to embrace the rhythms and practices that Jesus modeled. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your faith, serve others more effectively, or cultivate deeper moments of connection with God, this book provides practical steps and tools for spiritual growth. Ideal for Individual or Group Study This book is perfect for both individual reflection and group study. The author includes questions for reflection at the end of each chapter, making it an excellent choice for Bible studies, small groups, or personal devotional time. The thought-provoking exercises and discussions will help deepen understanding and create a community of believers committed to practicing the way of Jesus together. Conclusion Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did is a powerful, transformative resource for anyone who desires to live out their faith in a practical and meaningful way. With its actionable steps, relatable writing, and focus on holistic discipleship, this book is an invaluable guide for Christians at any stage of their faith journey. It’s a refreshing and convicting reminder that following Jesus is not just about belief but about becoming more like Him in every aspect of life.

Eu já era fã do trabalho do John Mark Comer e após ler esse livro, muito mais. Esse livro é uma preciosidade. A escrita segue um ritmo de uma conversa íntima, sem pressa. É um manual para aqueles que queres se tornar praticantes do ensino de Jesus. Ele fala que “futuro é antigo”, ou seja, o que precisamos para avançar em nosso relacionamento e aprendizado com Jesus está na sabedoria histórica da igreja, não é nada inovador. Ele afirma e mostra como, para ser um seguidor de Jesus, nós precisamos de menos e não de mais. Discipulado verdadeiro exige que abramos mão para termos mais. Gostei tanto que comprei a versão em português para minha esposa ler.

It's quite hard to summarise this book in a few lines for review purposes, simply because it is such an excellent piece of work. But here goes. I expect this is the book Comer has been wanting to write for years. The deepening of his faith, his experiences at Bridgetown Church and then his business 'Practicing the Way' and his ferocious appetite for learning and reading have all led to the book. Comer writes in an easy to understand manner. It's active, so he's always encouraging the reader to respond to his words. Using short sentences with plenty of space, he challenges the reader to consider their own relationship with Jesus and how to deepen it. How? By apprenticing oneself to Jesus. He doesn't shy away from saying that this will require change and eliminating certain things in our lives, but that's part of what surrendering our lives to Jesus involves. He appreciates that it's hard and not everyone will do it, hence, why there aren't more Jesus apprentices wandering the earth. Comer provides a path to follow with guidelines regarding 9 practices that will help people to apprentice themselves. In addition, his vast reading library provides some excellent references and support for his words and recommendations. But what I like most about this book is that Comer has walked that path (he's still walking it because it never stops) and as s such is a walking demonstration that such a life is possible. I initially received an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via Net Galley but I'd already ordered my own copies and 10 more for friends so it clearly had a positive effect on me. I suspect this book will be being read by our children and grandchildren in years to come.

John Mark Comer hat mit “Practicing the Way” kein weiteres „christliches Selbstoptimierungsbuch“ geschrieben – sondern ein echtes Einladungsschreiben an alle, die spüren: Da muss doch mehr sein als nur der sonntägliche Gottesdienst und der tägliche Stress. Comer schreibt ehrlich, klar und mit einer wohltuenden Mischung aus Tiefgang und Leichtigkeit. Er nimmt den Leser mit auf die Reise der Nachfolge – nicht als To-do-Liste für Superchristen, sondern als Einübung in eine neue Lebensweise. Stille, Gebet, Sabbat, Einfachheit – lauter Begriffe, die man vielleicht kennt, aber hier werden sie greifbar, praktisch und vor allem: lebbar. Was besonders hängen bleibt: Es geht nicht nur um was wir glauben, sondern wie wir unser Leben gestalten. Comer hilft, geistliche Praktiken nicht als frommen Druck, sondern als Einladung zur Freiheit zu sehen. Und das tut richtig gut. Er bringt es auf den Punkt: Jesus nachzufolgen ist kein Konsumprodukt, sondern eine Lebensform. Und Practicing the Way liefert dafür nicht nur Inspiration, sondern auch Anleitung. Fazit: Ein Buch für alle, die Jesus nicht nur bewundern, sondern ihm wirklich folgen wollen – mit ganzem Herzen, mitten im Alltag. Ehrlich, praktisch, herausfordernd – und vor allem: tief ermutigend. 5 von 5 Sternen – für suchende Seelen, müde Christen und alle, die glauben, dass Nachfolge mehr sein darf als Theorie.

I must say I'm a fanboy of JMC but with good reason.. the honesty with which he approaches the subject matter is refreshing.. no quick fixes from know it all guru.. but true christlike honesty and humility If listened to most of the book twice on Audible.. some parts more.. and still decided to get the book as well.. a lot of the content needs in dept integration into my life.. It does align well with where I'm at in my current journey with Jesus.. The fact that every relationship requires proper maintenance.. also one with the Almighty Creator.. is not a very popular subject in the western Church.. but we all need to hear this.. and act on it like there's no tomorrow