BecomeNew.Me

Did you enjoy this teaching on Forgiveness? Download the free print and go study guide to experience the journey in its fullness: becomenew.com/study-guides Is reconciliation really possible… after betrayal?In one of the most powerful stories in the Bible, we see the answer: yes—but it's complicated.In today's teaching, we walk through the story of Joseph and his brothers—a story filled with jealousy, betrayal, suffering, and ultimately… forgiveness and reconciliation. This is not a neat or easy process. It's messy, emotional, and deeply human.But it reveals something extraordinary: God can bring healing even to the most broken relationships.Because forgiveness is powerful… but reconciliation? That's a miracle.

What is forgiveness… really? And what if most of us have been getting it wrong?In today's teaching, we define forgiveness in a clear and powerful way: replacing ill will with goodwill. But that raises big questions—Does forgiveness excuse wrongdoing? Does it ignore justice? Should we forgive everything?Drawing from Scripture, real-world examples, and the work of Everett Worthington, this message untangles the confusion and reveals a deeper, stronger, more honest vision of forgiveness.Because forgiveness isn't pretending something didn't matter it's choosing a different kind of response.

Most of us think unforgiveness is something we choose.But what if it's actually something that slowly grows inside of us… without us even realizing it?In today's teaching, we explore the road to NOT forgiving—how small hurts turn into resentment, how rumination fuels bitterness, and how unforgiveness quietly takes hold of your heart.Drawing from Scripture, personal reflection, and the research of Everett Worthington, this message exposes the hidden patterns that keep us stuck—and offers hope that change is possible.Because unforgiveness doesn't just affect others…it shapes you. 

What does it take to forgive the unforgivable?In this powerful conversation, Everett Worthington shares his personal story of facing unimaginable loss—and the journey toward forgiveness that followed.Blending deep emotional honesty with practical wisdom, this teaching explores the darkness of the human heart, the reality of anger and rage, and the surprising path that leads to healing. You'll discover why forgiveness is not about excusing harm, but about transforming your own heart—and how even small steps can begin that process.Because forgiveness doesn't start with others… it starts within you.Welcome home. Change starts today.

Forgiveness sounds simple… until you actually have to do it.In today's teaching, we begin a powerful journey into forgiveness—not as a vague idea, but as a real, practical process that leads to healing and freedom. Because the truth is: we all carry wounds… and we all need to forgive.Drawing from Scripture, the teachings of Everett Worthington, and real-life experience, this message introduces a proven pathway to forgiveness—one that is honest, challenging, and deeply transformative.Because forgiveness isn't natural… it's supernatural.But it is possible.Welcome home. Change starts today.

Did you enjoy this teaching? We have a free study guide on this entire series if you'd like to walk through it with a friend or small group! Just download, print and go! Get it here... Becomenew.com/study-guidesSubmission.Just hearing that word can feel… uncomfortable.In a culture that prizes independence, autonomy, and “doing life your way,” the idea of submitting to someone else can sound outdated—or even dangerous. But what if submission, rightly understood, is actually a pathway to freedom?In today's teaching, we explore the spiritual discipline of submission—not as control or coercion, but as a humble, intentional decision to learn from those who are further along in wisdom and character. Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and real-life examples, this message reframes submission as a powerful tool for growth, accountability, and transformation.Because sometimes the fastest way forward… is learning to follow.Welcome home. Change starts today.

What if the thing you most want to hide… is the very thing keeping you stuck?In today's teaching, we explore the powerful (and often avoided) spiritual practice of confession—the act of telling the truth about your life to God and to a trusted person. It may feel uncomfortable, even painful, but it might also be the key to real freedom.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and insights from recovery communities like AA, this message shows how confession breaks the cycle of shame, removes hidden burdens, and restores connection with God and others.Because healing begins the moment you stop pretending.Welcome home. Change starts today.

What if worship isn't just something you do at church… but something that could transform your entire life?In today's teaching, we explore the true meaning of worship—not as music or a moment, but as a way of seeing and responding to the goodness, beauty, and greatness of God in everyday life.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and even the simple joy of things like coffee and nature, this message shows how worship awakens awe, restores your heart, and reconnects your life to what really matters.

What if the reason you feel anxious, exhausted, or constantly “on”… is because you're living for other people's approval?In today's teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked spiritual discipline of secrecy—doing good without anyone knowing. It sounds simple… but it might be one of the hardest things you'll ever try.Drawing from the teachings of Dallas Willard and the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, this message reveals how secrecy frees you from approval addiction, comparison, and the exhausting need to manage your image.Because the goal isn't to be seen as good…it's to become good—quietly, deeply, and freely.

Silence might be the most uncomfortable… and most transformative… practice in your life.In a world filled with constant noise, distraction, and the pressure to always say something, the discipline of silence feels almost impossible. But what if silence is actually the doorway to peace, trust, and deeper connection with God?In this teaching, we explore why silence matters, how it reshapes your inner life, and why learning not to speak can bring surprising freedom. Drawing from the wisdom of Dallas Willard and the example of Jesus, you'll discover how silence helps you let go of control, release the need for approval, and experience a deeper sense of being “at home” with God.If your life feels noisy, anxious, or driven by the need to prove yourself… this might be exactly what you need.ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 4.12.23ORIGINAL SERIES: Home

Enjoying these teachings on CHARACTER? Get the Free Study Guide: BecomeNew.com/study-guides - Download, print, and go!Is life actually fair? It's a question we all wrestle with—at home, at work, in culture, and deep in our own stories. But what if fairness isn't just something we demand… what if it's something we're called to become?In today's teaching, we explore the biblical vision of fairness and justice, tracing a powerful theme throughout Scripture: God does not show favoritism. From Cain and Abel to David to Jesus Himself, we see a God who consistently elevates the overlooked and challenges human systems of privilege and power.This message will challenge you to examine your own biases, confront favoritism in your life, and ask one simple but profound question:  Who am I overlooking?Because the way you treat people matters more than you think.

Why is self-control so hard? You're not alone. Research shows that among all character strengths, self-control ranks dead last in how people rate themselves. But what if the problem isn't just your willpower… what if it's how you're using it?In this teaching, we explore the deeper truth behind self-control—why willpower gets depleted, how habits shape your life, and why “white-knuckling it” isn't the solution. Drawing from Scripture, psychology, and spiritual wisdom, you'll discover a surprising secret:The key to self-control isn't trying harder… it's learning to surrender your will to something greater.If you feel stuck in cycles of frustration, temptation, or burnout, this message offers a better way forward.

Most of us think we're pretty good at reading people. Research says… we're not.In today's teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked skill of social intelligence, the ability to understand your own emotions and accurately read what's happening in others. From facial expressions to tone of voice to body language, this skill shapes every relationship you have. Through biblical insight (including the story of Joseph), practical exercises, and a powerful reflection practice, you'll learn how to grow in awareness, ask better questions, and become someone who truly sees people.Because when you learn to read faces…you learn to love people better.

Life doesn't always give you the path you would choose...There's a race set before you, shaped by your circumstances, your story, and the challenges you didn't ask for. The question isn't whether you chose it… the question is: will you run it with perseverance?In this powerful teaching, we explore what it really means to persevere—not just through willpower, but through purpose. Drawing from Scripture, philosophy, and real-life stories of suffering and resilience, this message shows how perseverance is fueled by hope, vision, and a deep sense that your life matters.If you're tired, discouraged, or wondering if it's worth it to keep going… this is for you.Because sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is just to take the next step.

What if the key to real character growth isn't fixing your weaknesses… but fully living into your strengths?In today's teaching, Dr. John Ortberg explores the idea of signature character strengths — those unique qualities God has wired into you that, when used intentionally, can transform your life and the lives of others. Drawing from research in positive psychology and the example of Barnabas, the “son of encouragement,” this message invites you to discover how you're uniquely designed to grow and make an impact.You'll hear a powerful story of quiet encouragement, learn how your daily choices shape who you are becoming, and be challenged to take one simple step: start using your God-given strengths on purpose today.Because change doesn't happen someday. Change starts today.ORIGINAL AIR DATE: July 24, 2023

Tell us what you thought of NO CONDEMNATION:https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPDHere's what's coming up...

Take the No Condemnation Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPDWhat if the biggest problem was never “them”… but what happens in us?In this final episode of the No Condemnation series, John brings us to a powerful turning point in Romans 1–2. Paul builds a case against “them” — their sin, their failure, their corruption — until the reader is fully on board.And then he turns it: “You, therefore, have no excuse—you who pass judgment…”In this episode, you'll learn:the difference between moral discernment and condemnationwhy labeling people as “them” distorts the hearthow contempt quietly takes root in everyday lifewhy humility is the starting point for real changehow to live with curiosity instead of judgmentThis isn't about ignoring sin. It's about refusing to let condemnation shape your soul. As the series ends, the invitation remains:See people as individuals.Release the need to judge.Choose curiosity.Practice love....because there is now no condemnation.

What makes the cross of Jesus different from every other story of sacrifice?In this episode, John explores the idea of scapegoating through the work of René Girard and how human societies have always dealt with conflict the same way: by finding someone to blame. We find ourselves at the cross. The cross of Jesus changes everything. For the first time, the scapegoat is truly innocent and instead of justifying the system, the cross exposes it.You'll learn:why humans instinctively assign blamehow rivalry and imitation lead to conflictwhat scapegoating looks like in everyday lifehow the cross reveals the truth about human systemswhy God responds to blame with graceIn a world that runs on blame, the cross offers a different way.Not more condemnation.Not more scapegoats.But grace.

Why doesn't shaming actually work?In this episode, Dr. John Ortberg explores two powerful reasons why condemnation and public shaming often backfire and what they do to both the person being judged and the one doing the judging.Drawing from The Scarlet Letter, John shows:- why we never truly know someone else's story- how shame distorts both identity and relationships- why condemnation corrodes the soul of the one who carries it- how modern culture reinforces division and estrangement- what Jesus offers insteadThen he introduces a different calling:The ministry of reconciliation.You'll learn:- why reconciliation is central to the life of Jesus- how to begin moving away from resentment- what to do when relationships feel broken- why prayer is often the first step- how to live without keeping scoreBecause the goal isn't just to avoid condemnation.It's to become someone who brings people back together.SAVE THE DATE: FORMATIONPODCAST.com launches April 22!

What if the biggest problem isn't “out there”… but is actually within?In this episode, John speaks directly to a familiar figure, “Uncle Billy," the person whose words are harsh, sarcastic, and condemning. Everyone knows an "Uncle Billy."But then he turns the question back on each one of us.Drawing from Ephesians 4 and the words of Jesus, John explores:- why condemnation often disguises itself as righteousness- how outrage and sarcasm shape our hearts- what the Bible really means by “unwholesome talk”- how our words can either rot or restore relationships- why kindness is central to following JesusYou'll learn:- how to recognize “unwholesome talk” in everyday life- why it's easier to judge others than examine ourselves- how to begin changing the tone of your words- what it looks like to speak in a way that builds others upBefore we send this message to someone else, we're invited to ask:“Is that me, Lord?”Because there is now no condemnation...even for the parts of us still being transformed.

We're living in a culture of division. So how do you follow Jesus…when you deeply disagree with someone?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with Condoleezza Rice to explore how faith shapes the way we navigate politics, disagreement, and relationships.Together, they unpack:- Why it's so hard to love your “opponents”- How to disagree without losing respect- The role of humility, curiosity, and friendship- And why prayer may be the most important habit of allBecause following Jesus doesn't remove disagreement…but it transforms how we live within it.

Why did Jesus have to die? What's the deal with sacrifice? Couldn't God just… forgive?In this Good Friday teaching, Dr. John Ortberg walks through the deeper meaning of the cross.A story that reveals:We all need helpThe real problem isn't “out there”… it's in usAnd the power of evil is not defeated by force…but by self-giving loveOn the cross, Jesus didn't just suffer.He absorbed evil without returning it.He out-loved hatred.He defeated sin by refusing to stop loving.And in doing so, he changed everything.The invitation is not just to believe in the cross…but to live it.

Not all condemnation is loud.Some of it is… sneaky.In this episode, John Ortberg walks through 10 passive-aggressive habits that quietly damage relationships—things like eye rolls, silence, sarcasm, and “I'm fine.”The twist?Jesus never used them.He was direct. Honest. Clear.And still… full of love.Because you can avoid conflict…and still be full of condemnation.So today, pay attention:Where are you being indirect instead of honest?Where is frustration leaking out sideways?And ask God to help you speak the truth—without condemnation.

Most people don't struggle with telling the truth…they struggle with how they say it.In this episode, John and Nancy Ortberg unpack what it really means to:“Speak the truth in love.”Through two powerful real-life stories, they show how condemnation quietly grows:- behind people's backs- inside groups- and in our own heartsAnd how it can be replaced with something better:- honesty without attack- truth without shame- connection instead of divisionBecause the goal isn't avoiding hard conversations…It's learning how to have them without condemnation.

Shamed people… shame people.So what do you do with the shame you carry?In this episode, John Ortberg shows how Jesus faced shame—and refused to let it define him.From rejection and ridicule to the cross itself, Jesus endured it all…but scorned the shame.And that changes everything for us.Because shame says:“You're not enough.”“You don't belong.”“You are what went wrong.”But Jesus tells a different story.Today's invitation is simple:Notice when shame shows upRefuse to let it define youLet Jesus tell your storyBecause you were never meant to live under shame.

How does Jesus change the world? Not through force. Not through control. Not by winning arguments.It's through the cross.In this episode, John looks at a quote from Jesus during one of his most painful moments: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” He draws people in not by power, but by self-giving love.Drawing from John 12, Luke 23, and the story of Jesus' final hours, John shows how the cross reveals character under pressure:not retaliation, but surrendernot condemnation, but forgivenessnot control, but trustThe truth is, the cross is more than a teaching. It's a story. Even when life gets disappointing, or people let us down, or we feel hurt beyond measure, we can choose to double down on the cross. Remember: There is now, therefore, no condemnation. 

Why do so many conversations leave people feeling worse instead of better?In this episode, John walks through a powerful framework for communicating without condemnation, based on the work of Marshall Rosenberg:observe without evaluatingname your feelingsidentify your needsmake clear requestsThen he shows what it looks like in real life through one of Jesus' most famous conversations — His encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4.Instead of judging or correcting her, Jesus:crosses social and relational barrierslistens beneath the surfacespeaks truth without shamecreates connection before correctionAnd the result?A woman who felt fully known… and still accepted.You'll learn:why most communication quietly damages relationshipshow to speak truth without condemnationwhat it means to listen for deeper needshow curiosity can transform difficult conversationswhy being known and accepted changes everythingBecause the goal isn't to win the conversation.It's to love the person.

We live in a cancel culture.Accountability matters — but somewhere along the way, accountability became condemnation. Not just “that was wrong,” but “you are done.”In this episode, John explores:the rise of cancel culture and public shamingwhy shame and condemnation rarely lead to real changethe difference between calling people out and calling them inthe surprising place the word “cancel” shows up in the New Testamentand what Jesus actually does with sin and peopleDrawing from voices like Jon Ronson, Adam Grant, and Loretta Ross, John points to a deeper truth:God does not cancel people. God cancels sin.At the cross — the ultimate place of public shame — Jesus absorbs condemnation and disarms it.Which means: Your sin can be canceled… but you are not.And neither is anyone else.There is now no condemnation.

What if you've been reading the Bible… the wrong way?In this episode, John shares three unexpected tools for giving up condemnation:lighten upbring your shadow (your own capacity for failure)read everything in the shadow of the cross Drawing on insights from Phillip Cary and the story of Jonah, John challenges a common habit: reading ourselves as the “good” characters while judging everyone else.Instead, we're invited to identify with the ones who get it wrong.You'll learn:why moralistic Bible reading fuels judgmenthow humor and humility can disarm condemnationwhat it means to “bring your shadowhow the cross reshapes the way we see otherswhy identifying with failure leads to freedom Because the goal isn't to prove we're better than Jonah…It's to realize we're not.And that's where grace begins.And there is now no condemnation. 

How does someone go from being full of condemnation… to writing, “There is now no condemnation”?In this episode, John explores the transformation of Paul — a man driven by zeal, judgment, and certainty — who encounters the risen Jesus and sees everything differently.Drawing on insights from What Saint Paul Really Said, John unpacks what Paul actually meant by “justification by faith” — and why it's not about earning salvation or simply believing a doctrine.You'll learn:what Paul's zeal was really aboutwhy “justification” means being vindicated, not just forgiventhe difference between trusting Jesus and believing about Himhow Jesus redefines who belongswhy seeing Jesus in others changes everythingAs you move through your day, you're invited into a simple but powerful practice:“It could be the Lord.”Because when you begin to see people that way, condemnation starts to fall away.And there is now no condemnation.

What if our biggest barrier with God isn't sin, but politeness?In this episode, John Ortberg explores a surprising truth from Scripture: God isn't looking for polished prayers. He's inviting honest relationship. Through the story of Job, we discover something shocking:Job rages. Questions God. Speaks words that feel almost dangerous. And yet—God says Job spoke what is right. Why? Because honesty draws us closer to God while polite distance keeps Him far away.Even Jesus cried out on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”So if you've ever felt:confuseddisappointedhurtunsure what God is doingYou're not alone, and you don't have to hide it.Today's invitation is simple: Be real with God.Because the path to deeper faith isn't pretending—it's honesty.

We don't throw stones anymore.Except… we do.Online.In conversations.With a look, a tone, a pause.In this episode, John Ortberg unpacks one of the most famous and unsettling teachings of Jesus:“Let the one without sin cast the first stone.”Through a powerful contrast between ancient scapegoating and the story of the woman in John 8, we see what Jesus is really doing:Not denying sin.Not ignoring truth.But interrupting condemnation.Because there is something in every human heart that wants:someone to blamesomeone to shamesomeone to bring downBut Jesus offers a different way.A way where:truth is spokensin is taken seriouslybut people are not crushedThe invitation today is simple—and hard:Put down the stone.Because the moment you release condemnation,you make space for grace.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Criticism is inevitable.Condemnation is optional.In this episode, John Ortberg explores one of the most important distinctions for spiritual growth: how to receive criticism without absorbing condemnation.Drawing from the life of King David, we see a man who:Refused to take revenge when attackedIgnored false condemnationYet humbly received painful truth when it mattered mostThe Bible consistently teaches us:Listen to criticism.Learn from correction.But do not internalize condemnation.Because condemnation attacks your identity—while healthy criticism can transform your life.So what do you do when criticism comes?Instead of getting defensive…lean in.“Is there anything else?”This simple posture can turn even hard conversations into opportunities for growth.Because when you are rooted in God's love,you don't have to protect your ego—you're free to grow.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Condemnation doesn't start with what we say.It starts with how we see people.In this episode, John Ortberg explores the root of condemnation and a critical distinction that can change the way we live: observation vs. evaluation.Drawing from insights in Nonviolent Communication, John shows how easily our minds move from simply noticing behavior to assigning judgment, criticism, or contempt. And once that shift happens, condemnation begins to grow.Jesus addressed this problem directly in the Sermon on the Mount when he said:“First take the plank out of your own eye.”The real issue isn't just our words — it's our perception.When we learn to see people the way Jesus sees them — as bearers of God's image — our responses change. Curiosity replaces contempt. Love replaces judgment.Today's practice is simple but powerful:As you move through your day, pause and ask:What would Jesus see when he looks at this person?Because when we change how we see,we change how we love.And in Christ, there is now… therefore… no condemnation.

What do you do with the anger that keeps replaying in your mind?The conversations.The injustice.The words you wish you could say back.In this episode, John Ortberg looks at the remarkable life of Saint Patrick — a man who was kidnapped, enslaved for six years, and yet chose a path almost no one would expect.Instead of revenge, Patrick returned to the people who enslaved him with a message of love and forgiveness.His life raises a hard question for all of us:What do we do with the pain that makes condemnation feel justified?John explores two deeply practical practices that help us escape the prison of bitterness:• Stop ruminating about the person who hurt you• Stop gossiping about themThese small decisions can redirect the entire trajectory of your heart.Because the voice you rehearse in your mindwill eventually shape the life you live.And the way of Jesus — even in the face of deep injustice — is the way of blessing.

There's a voice in your head that never stops talking.But not every voice deserves to be trusted.In this episode, John Ortberg explores the difference between self-condemnation and conviction. Drawing on insights from Ignatius of Loyola, Marshall Rosenberg, and Michael Singer, John shows how comparison and inner criticism can spiral into despair.But the voice of God works differently.Self-condemnation attacks your identity.Conviction speaks to your actions.Self-condemnation leads to hiding.Conviction leads to hope and change.Learning to recognize the difference may be one of the most important spiritual skills you ever develop.Because the voice you listen to insideis usually the voice you use with others.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

How do you confront someone's behavior without becoming condemning yourself?In this episode, John walks through a common real-life situation — dealing with a difficult family member — and explains the three elements required for genuine change.Drawing on insights from Henry Cloud, Dallas Willard, and research on conflict and relationships, John shows why condemnation rarely leads to transformation.You'll discover:- why grace must come first- how truth can be spoken without hostility- why the emotional tone of a conversation matters- the surprising role patience plays in change- why grace + truth + time are all necessaryReal growth rarely happens overnight. But when grace, truth, and time come together, relationships can begin to change in ways condemnation never could.Because there is now no condemnation.

Is it really surprising that God loves you?In this episode, John challenges a common assumption many Christians carry: that God's love for us is somehow unexpected or hard for Him. But Scripture paints a different picture. Over and over again, the Bible declares something astonishingly simple — God is love.John explores two truths we must hold together. First, we are broken and imperfect. But second, God's very nature is love. And our brokenness cannot change who God is.Drawing from passages like John 3, Romans 5, 1 John 4, and Ephesians 3, John explains how understanding God's nature reshapes our lives. When we become rooted in love, condemnation begins to lose its power, and love naturally flows outward to others.Because the deepest truth of the universe is this: God is love.

What if the key to overcoming condemnation isn't arguing better — but listening better?In this episode, John explores Jesus' surprising instruction in Luke 8:18: “Consider carefully how you listen.” Through the parable of the sower, Jesus explains that the condition of our hearts determines whether the words we hear bring growth or simply bounce off.John shares a recent moment when he caught himself listening critically instead of humbly — and how a simple shift changed everything.You'll learn:- why we often listen in order to judge- the three unhealthy ways we listen- what Jesus means by a “good and noble heart”- how humble listening opens the door to growth- why listening well makes condemnation harderWhen we begin to listen with humility — asking what God might want to show us — conversations change. And so do we.Because there is now no condemnation.

The opposite of condemnation isn't just restraint...it's blessing.In this episode, John Ortberg explores how Jesus calls us to become people who actively bless others — even those who curse us. Drawing from Scripture and insights from The Blessing by Gary Smalley and John Trent, John walks through five powerful ways to bless others: meaningful words, honoring value, appropriate touch, envisioning a future, and showing up with presence.Blessing doesn't just change others — it changes us.Because when we bless, we live the life Jesus envisioned.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Why does condemnation feel like it's everywhere today?In this episode, John Ortberg explores a cultural shift: we no longer define a “good person” by love and character, but by holding the “right” opinions. The result? More judgment, more division, and less humility.Jesus offered a different path — a life marked by compassion, forgiveness, and what Kierkegaard called “blithe humility.” Like the birds and lilies, we can release the burden of controlling the world and trust God with it.The result is freedom, joy, and a life without condemnation.

Sign up here to receive the Formation Newsletter: https://becomenew.com/formation/What if the antidote to condemnation isn't trying harder to be nice… but learning to know yourself?In this conversation, John Ortberg talks with philosopher Jim Taylor about intellectual virtue — qualities like humility, courage, and self-knowledge that help us pursue truth and love people well.Jesus warned against condemning judgment, but he also invited us to remove the log in our own eye. The path forward begins with honest self-examination and a simple prayer:“Search me, O God, and know my heart.”Because when we grow in self-knowledge, condemnation loses its grip.

You don't condemn people… right?Let me stop you right there.In this episode, John Ortberg walks through six surprisingly common styles of condemnation — from the obvious (aggressive anger) to the subtle (silence, sarcasm, perfectionism, conditional acceptance, even martyrdom).We all judge. We all distance. We all find creative ways to say, “I'm above you.”Drawing on Scripture, psychology, and real-life examples (including the “Pan Am smile” and the devastating power of ridicule), John helps us name our default style — and invites the Holy Spirit to gently interrupt it.Because condemnation doesn't just hurt others. It corrodes us.And the freedom we're after this Lent is simple and radical:Let me stop you right there.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

There is now no condemnation...but if we're honest, sometimes condemnation feels effective.In this episode, John Ortberg explores what Dallas Willard called the law of reciprocal condemnation — the almost unbreakable cycle where judgment breeds counter-judgment, attack breeds counter-attack, and anger multiplies itself.It's extremely rare, Willard observed, that anyone who is condemned responds by changing in the desired way.Instead, condemnation produces:- Counter-condemnation- Passive aggression- Perfectionism- Procrastination- Rebellion- Or quiet relational deathJesus warned about this in the Sermon on the Mount:“As you judge, so you will be judged.”Not as a threat from God — but as an observation about how relationships work.So how do we break the cycle?Paul gives a shocking alternative in Romans 12:Do not repay evil for evil.Leave room for God's justice.Overcome evil with good.Justice is real.But it is not ours to manage.

In this episode, John Ortberg offers what he calls “two cheers for guilt and shame.” Drawing from the book of Judges, John explores why justice matters, why moral reality is woven into the fabric of existence, and why a world without any sense of guilt or shame would not be more humane — it would be more dangerous.From the brutal story of Adoni-Bezek to the violent cycles of Judges, we see a profound truth emerge: no one ultimately gets away with injustice. As Jesus says in Luke 8:17, nothing hidden will remain hidden.John traces a major turning point in human history — what C.S. Lewis called the moral law — the moment when ancient Israel connected two ideas that had often been separated:There is one God.And that God is good.Justice is real. Accountability is real. And judgment, properly understood, is good news — especially for the oppressed.But here's the deeper turn:- Guilt and shame can either crush us… or redeem us.- Healthy guilt points out where we have done wrong so we can confess and be cleansed. Healthy shame invites us out of hiding into relationship and grace.- And ultimately, Jesus steps into the story and absorbs the consequences we could not.- “The wages of sin is death.”The sin is ours.The death is his.- The cycle of Judges is broken at the cross.Justice is upheld. Mercy is given.And condemnation does not win.

John Ortberg builds on a surprising Lenten invitation echoed even by the Pope: fast from harsh words. Disarm your language. Refuse contempt.John revisits what condemnation actually is — not discernment, not moral clarity — but a toxic mix of malice (ill will) and disgust (repulsion) toward another person.Then he offers one simple, powerful practice that makes condemnation nearly impossible while you're doing it:Listen.Drawing from Scripture, including Acts 7 (where Stephen's accusers literally cover their ears), and insights from The Lost Art of Listening by Michael Nichols and Martha Straus, John explores why we overestimate our listening ability — and why the higher our emotions run, the less we tend to listen.It turns out it's very difficult to listen deeply and condemn someone at the same time.James writes, “Be quick to listen.”That might be the most subversive spiritual discipline of our time.Because curiosity softens judgment.Listening interrupts contempt.And blessing grows where condemnation used to live.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Condemnation comes easily when we quietly assume we earned where we stand.In this episode, John explores two truths that change everything about how we see other people: we do not know their full story — and we do not know their future.Drawing on Psalm 103 and the classic film Angels with Dirty Faces, John tells the story of two boys who run from the police. One clears a fence. One doesn't. That single moment sends their lives in opposite directions. Years later, one is a priest. One is a criminal.How much of what we call character was shaped by circumstances we did not choose?You'll discover:- Why condemnation assumes too much- What Psalm 103 means when it says “we are dust”- How curiosity disarms contempt- Why only God sees the whole arc of a life- How to bless someone you're tempted to judgeJohn closes by inviting you to bring to mind the person you're most tempted to hold in contempt — and to pray for them instead.Because there is now no condemnation.

Today, John Ortberg uses Les Misérables by Victor Hugo to explore two ways of living:• the condemning life (Javert)• the blessing life (the Bishop)• and the transformed life (Jean Valjean)Drawing on Romans 8, 2 Corinthians 3, and insights from Dallas Willard, John explains:- why condemnation feels powerful- what the “ministry of condemnation” really does- how grace humiliates before it heals- why pride resists light- how blessing rewires the soulThrough the unforgettable moment of the candlesticks, we see how self-giving love defeats condemnation. One man bends the knee and is transformed. One refuses grace and collapses under its weight.“To love another person is to see the face of God.”That is the blessing life.That is the transformed life.And there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Why does condemnation feel so automatic?In this episode, John explores how shame and judgment often operate through what sociologists call status degradation rituals, the subtle ways we lower others to elevate ourselves.Drawing on insights from Harold Garfinkel, John shows how condemnation works socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Then he walks us through powerful Gospel moments where Jesus reverses the pattern:• the sinful woman at Simon's house• the prodigal son welcomed home• Jesus washing his disciples' feet• and ultimately, the cross itselfYou'll learn:- how condemnation functions as a social ritual- why Jesus chooses downward mobility- how humility defeats hostility- what Philippians 2 reveals about real greatness- how serving others rewires the heartJohn also reflects on how crucifixion was designed by Rome as the ultimate humiliation — and how Jesus voluntarily enters that suffering to defeat condemnation once and for all.The invitation is simple and brave:come to Jesus in humility,serve instead of shame,and help elevate the people around you.Because there really is now no condemnation.

Why does condemnation feel so automatic?In this episode, John Ortberg invites us to slow down, breathe, and notice something surprising: judgment doesn't just live in our thoughts — it lives in our bodies.Returning to the story of Cain and Abel, John shows how God interrupts Cain with two gentle questions:- Why are you angry?- Why is your face downcast?Those questions open a doorway to freedom.Drawing on neuroscience from Jill Bolte Taylor and Antonio Damasio, John explains how condemnation becomes embodied through stress hormones, muscle tension, and emotional rehearsal. He introduces the difference between decisional non-condemnation (“I choose not to judge”) and emotional non-condemnation (asking God to transform what happens inside your body).You'll learn:• why condemnation feels physical• how the 90-second pause works• what it means to “feed the monster”• how blessing rewires your reactions• why you can disagree without condemningJohn also shares painfully honest examples of everyday judgment (hair gel, Tesla drivers, passive people — we've all been there

How do you tell someone they're wrong… without condemning them?John Ortberg explores one of the most important distinctions in communication: the difference between tone and heart. Tone can be soothing or jarring. But the heart must always be love.Looking at Matthew 23, where Jesus confronts religious leaders with blistering language, John asks: Was Jesus condemning them? Or was something deeper happening?You'll discover:- Why condemnation is not the same as moral clarity- The difference between contempt and courage- What “malice + disgust” really means- Why Jesus compares himself to a mother hen- How to speak the truth in love without losing your soulDrawing from Romans 8, Matthew 23, Luke 19, and a reflection by Barbara Brown Taylor, this episode offers a powerful prayer for Lent:“God, give me the right heart. Then show me the right tone.”If you're navigating conflict, leadership, parenting, or hard conversations — this one matters.Download the free NO CONDEMNATION COMMITMENT: https://bit.ly/NC-commitment