In his thought-provoking book "Live No Lies," John Mark Comer offers a compelling exploration of the challenges faced by Christians in today's secular society. As a pastor in Portland, Oregon, Comer has witnessed firsthand the struggles of maintaining faith in an increasingly post-Christian world. His book serves as a guide for those seeking to navigate the complex landscape of modern life while staying true to their Christian beliefs.
Introduction: The Spiritual Battle in a Post-Christian World
Comer begins by acknowledging a pervasive sense of weariness and alienation among Christians in Western society. He argues that this feeling is not only normal but expected, given the spiritual war that believers are engaged in. The author contends that secular society has embraced many ideas that directly contradict Christian teachings, leading to widespread unhappiness and moral decay.
The central premise of "Live No Lies" is that followers of Jesus must learn to identify and resist three primary enemies: the devil's lies, our own desires, and the corrupting influences of the world. By understanding these challenges and developing strategies to combat them, Christians can find peace and live more fulfilling lives in accordance with their faith.
The Power of Lies and the Reality of the Devil
One of the most controversial aspects of Comer's book is his insistence on the reality of the devil. In an age where even many Christians view Satan as a metaphor or ancient superstition, Comer argues for a literal interpretation of the devil's existence and influence.
The author points out that Jesus himself spoke of the devil as a real entity, and he challenges readers to consider the possibility that our ancestors were not simply ignorant in their belief in spiritual forces. Comer suggests that the devil's primary weapon is deception, using lies to manipulate people into sin and isolation.
Drawing on research by deception expert Dr. Timothy Levine, Comer highlights how even intelligent individuals are susceptible to believing lies. This vulnerability is exacerbated in modern society, where false ideas have become normalized and sometimes even enshrined in law.
To combat these lies, Comer encourages Christians to develop a critical thinking mindset and to be vigilant in their spiritual warfare. He likens the devil's tactics to a sophisticated disinformation campaign rather than a traditional armed conflict, emphasizing the need for mental and spiritual preparedness.
Becoming More Like Jesus: The Path to Resisting Lies
Comer presents the idea of spiritual formation as a continuous process of becoming more like Jesus and less like the devil. He contrasts the devil's methods of isolation and lies with Jesus' example of relationships and truth.
To resist the devil's influence, Comer recommends adopting spiritual practices that bring believers closer to Jesus' example. These include:
- Quiet prayer: Spending time in solitude to expose the illusions of the self and connect with God.
- Reading scripture: Regularly immersing oneself in the Bible to replace lies with God's truth.
- Curating thoughts and media consumption: Being mindful of the cultural influences one allows into their mind.
The author emphasizes the importance of developing habits that shape one's thoughts and actions, ultimately influencing the person they become. This concept of intentional spiritual formation is a recurring theme throughout the book.
Freedom, Desire, and the Misguided Ideas of Secular Society
Comer tackles the complex issue of desire and its role in human behavior. He argues that secular society has adopted a misguided understanding of freedom and desire, largely influenced by thinkers like Sigmund Freud.
The author contends that the popular notion of following one's heart and indulging in desires has led to widespread unhappiness and moral decay. He challenges the secular definition of freedom as the ability to do whatever one wants without constraints, as long as it doesn't harm others.
Instead, Comer presents the Christian concept of freedom as choosing to follow God's path. He argues that true freedom comes from submitting to a higher authority rather than being enslaved by one's desires.
The book encourages readers to distinguish between primal desires, such as lust, and superior desires, like the longing to love and follow God. Comer suggests that many people in Western society are unknowingly enslaved by their desires, constantly chasing after fleeting pleasures in search of happiness and fulfillment.
The Law of Returns: Reaping What We Sow
Comer introduces the concept of the "law of returns," which he describes as a universal principle acknowledged by many cultures and religions. This idea, also found in the Bible, suggests that every action has a consequence, and the effect may be disproportionate to the cause.
The author emphasizes the power of repetition in shaping habits and character. Drawing on neuroscience research, he explains how repeated actions become encoded in the brain, making them easier to perform over time. This principle applies to both positive and negative behaviors, highlighting the importance of cultivating good habits and avoiding destructive ones.
Comer uses the example of marital infidelity to illustrate how small decisions and actions can gradually escalate into more serious transgressions. He encourages readers to reflect on their thoughts and behaviors, considering whether they align with the person they want to become.
The book stresses that while it becomes more challenging to change ingrained habits as we age, it's never too late to make positive changes. Comer advises using feelings of guilt as motivation for personal growth and transformation.
Spiritual Practices for Overcoming Desires
Recognizing the constant battle against primitive desires, Comer offers practical strategies for Christians to strengthen their willpower and access spiritual power. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual practices in gaining control over desires and becoming more like Jesus.
Some of the key spiritual practices recommended in the book include:
Fasting: Comer highlights the transformative power of fasting, a practice he believes has been neglected by the modern Western church. By voluntarily depriving oneself of food, Christians can train their bodies to resist immediate gratification and find freedom from the control of desires.
Confession: The author stresses the importance of confessing sins to others, not just to God in private. He argues that the communal aspect of confession, similar to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, can lead to greater intimacy, vulnerability, and ultimately, freedom.
Developing habits: Comer emphasizes the power of habits in spiritual formation. By consistently setting one's mind on God and living according to the spirit, Christians can gradually overcome their desires and align their lives with their faith.
The book encourages readers to view these practices as exercises that strengthen the "willpower muscle," making it easier to resist temptation and live a life guided by faith rather than impulse.
The Dangers of Social Contagion and Normalized Sin
Comer addresses the third enemy Christians face: the corrupting influence of the world. He defines "the world" as a culture that has rebelled against God, drawing parallels to Jesus' warnings about the hostility and temptations present in society.
The author introduces the concept of "social contagion," supported by research from psychologist Dr. Paul Marsden. This phenomenon suggests that behaviors and ideas can spread through social networks like a virus, potentially leading to the rapid adoption of harmful practices or beliefs.
Comer expresses concern about the normalization of ideas and behaviors that contradict Christian values. He cites examples such as changing attitudes toward abortion and sexual behavior, highlighting the growing gap between secular culture and traditional Christian morality.
The book warns readers about the subtle yet corrosive effects of societal influences, cautioning against the development of a "DIY faith" that blends Christianity with consumerism, individualism, and secular ideas about sexuality. Comer urges Christians to be aware of these dangers and to actively resist negative influences in their lives.
Adapting to a Post-Christian Culture: The Role of the Church
In the final section of the book, Comer addresses the reality of living in a post-Christian culture and offers strategies for Christians and churches to adapt and thrive. He argues that while Western society still retains some elements of Christian morality, it is actively trying to move beyond Christianity and reject its commitments and restraints.
The author presents several key ideas for Christians and churches to consider:
Embracing counterculture: Comer encourages Christians to view the church as a counterculture, living an alternative lifestyle on the margins of society. This approach aligns with Saint Peter's prediction that Christians would be exiles in the world.
Building strong communities: The book emphasizes the importance of creating close-knit church communities with deep, intimate relationships among members. Regular meetings for confession, support, and love are crucial in this context.
Pursuing holiness: Comer calls for churches to be communities of holiness, set apart from the hedonism of secular society. This includes being mindful of sexual behavior and attitudes, using one's body to honor God.
Providing structure and stability: In the chaos of modern life, the author suggests that churches should offer a sense of order and structure. This can be achieved through the creation of a "Rule of Life" – a schedule of Christian practices and disciplines for followers to adhere to.
Combining individual and communal practices: Comer stresses the importance of balancing personal spiritual practices with participation in the church community as key to surviving and thriving in a post-Christian world.
Final Thoughts: Hope in the Midst of Challenges
Despite the numerous challenges faced by Christians in today's secular society, Comer remains optimistic about the future. He believes that followers of Jesus have all the necessary tools and resources to overcome the obstacles they face and live lives of happiness and freedom through their faith in God.
The author encourages readers to view their struggles as part of a larger spiritual battle, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey. By adopting the strategies and practices outlined in the book, Christians can strengthen their faith, resist the enemies that seek to undermine their peace, and find renewed purpose in their spiritual lives.
"Live No Lies" serves as both a wake-up call and a source of encouragement for Christians navigating the complexities of modern life. Comer's blend of biblical wisdom, psychological insights, and practical advice offers a comprehensive approach to maintaining faith in a world that often seems hostile to Christian values.
Practical Application: Combating Lies with a Notebook
In addition to the spiritual practices and strategies discussed throughout the book, Comer offers a simple yet effective technique for dealing with obsessive thoughts and lies. He suggests using a notebook to engage in a three-step process:
- Write down the obsessive thought or worry (e.g., "I'm worried about losing my job").
- Identify and articulate the underlying lie behind the thought (e.g., "My security and happiness come from this job").
- Counter the lie with a relevant passage from scripture that speaks to the truth.
By consistently practicing this exercise, Christians can train themselves to recognize and resist lies, redirecting their minds to focus on biblical truths instead.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Christians in a Post-Christian World
"Live No Lies" by John Mark Comer is a thought-provoking and timely book that addresses the unique challenges faced by Christians in today's secular society. Through his exploration of the three primary enemies – the devil's lies, our own desires, and the corrupting influences of the world – Comer provides readers with a comprehensive framework for understanding and combating the spiritual battles they face daily.
The author's emphasis on spiritual practices, community involvement, and intentional living offers practical guidance for those seeking to strengthen their faith and resist the pervasive influences of a post-Christian culture. By encouraging readers to critically examine their beliefs, habits, and the cultural messages they receive, Comer empowers Christians to take an active role in shaping their spiritual lives.
While some readers may find Comer's literal interpretation of the devil and spiritual warfare controversial, his insights into the power of lies and the importance of truth-seeking remain valuable regardless of one's specific theological stance. The book's exploration of desire, freedom, and the law of returns provides a nuanced perspective on human behavior and the consequences of our choices.
Perhaps most importantly, "Live No Lies" offers hope and encouragement to Christians who may feel overwhelmed or alienated in an increasingly secular world. By reframing their struggles as part of a larger spiritual battle and providing practical tools for resistance, Comer helps readers find renewed purpose and strength in their faith.
As Western society continues to evolve and move further from its Christian roots, the strategies and insights presented in this book will likely become even more relevant. Whether read individually or discussed in a group setting, "Live No Lies" serves as a valuable resource for Christians seeking to navigate the complexities of modern life while staying true to their beliefs and values.
Ultimately, Comer's message is one of empowerment and resilience. By recognizing the enemies that threaten their peace and actively working to combat them, Christians can not only survive but thrive in a post-Christian world. Through a combination of personal spiritual practices, community engagement, and a commitment to living out their faith, followers of Jesus can find the strength and wisdom needed to resist lies, overcome desires, and positively influence the world around them.