Review: Loveology

In the Christian world, John Mark Comer isn't short of popularity, and for good reason. My main motive behind this review is to encourage those who haven't read (or listened to) this to definitely do so!

This was a great book to listen to on Audible as it's voiced by the author who reads really well. The book covers marriage, sexuality, romance, singleness and what it means to be male and female. It's the ultimate guide on navigating love and discovering more about your identity.

Loveology is recommended for singles, engaged couples and the newly married, but I think this is particularly good for those who are single or dating as it talks through some key considerations to make when choosing who to marry (or not as the case may be). It is useful being in a pre-marital stage of life myself, as I found the advice helpful in my own stage of life and I think the majority of people, particularly new Christians will hear some profound and transformative truths for the first time.

John's advice on these topics is direct and continually based on Biblical principles, making this book a great way to understand more about God's character and the Bible's position on the different topics. I think this quote from the book summarises John's position well:

"As a general rule, where the Bible is dogmatic, we should be dogmatic. Where the Bible is ambiguous, we should be open-minded and loaded with grace. And where the Bible is silent, we should shut the heck up."

The chapters dance elegantly between the richness of a meaningful relationship and sanctity of marriage, and the importance of a deep devotion to God, and how the two work together by design...

“We were set up to love. To absorb the love of God into our bloodstream and then to share it with another human being.”

John is great at combining the spiritual with the practical, encouraging you to focus on what truly matters in this life, and how to work out what God is calling you to do. I left the book feeling focused on walking with God and following my calling as the number 1 priority for my life, whilst also reinforcing that, for me, part of that calling involves a partner to do life with.

The icing on the cake was how directly and gracefully he approached topics like porneia, gender dysphoria and same sex attraction. If you're wondering what the Bible says about these topics and how to love others well, you'll find that clearly signposted.

I definitely left wishing I could ask John for more of his views, though if you have any questions as you're journeying through the book, there is a great Q&A session at the end, which may cover some of them off.

Seeing as I listened to the entire 5 hour book within a busy day and a half, I can't really rate this less than 5 stars! I would recommend this as a must have for new Christians and those exploring their calling towards singleness or marriage. It also works great as an audiobook, not too verbose and swift that you are clicking rewind, but compelling and wonderfully wise.