Why do humans sing — and why has singing together been a part of human culture for as long as we can remember? In this talk, we explore the surprising science, deep history, and spiritual significance of song — both inside and outside the church.

We’ll cover:
• Song Psychology – how music rewires the brain and shapes memory
• Social Bonding – why singing together builds connection and trust
• Neural Pathways – what happens in your brain when you sing
• Healing & Wellbeing – how singing boosts mood, reduces stress, and strengthens community

From ancient evolutionary debates (Pinker vs. Darwin) to the earliest Christian hymns, from Frozen earworms to Paul’s letters in the New Testament — you’ll see how music has always been more than just entertainment.

Whether you’re a trained vocalist or someone who can’t hold a tune, you’ll discover why singing is one of the most human things you can do… and why you should probably do it more often.

📖 Scripture references: Ephesians 5:18–20, Colossians 3:15–16, James 5:13
🎶 Historical note: The 3rd-century Oxyrhynchus Hymn — one of the oldest pieces of Christian music ever recorded.

If this inspires you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more thoughtful explorations of faith, life, and culture.

#WhyWeSing #NeuroscienceOfMusic #FaithAndSong #Christianity #WorshipMusic #MusicAndFaith #SocialBonding #HealingThroughMusic

Today also marks the final week of our summer series, Reads a Classic, where we’ve reflected on the wisdom of enduring voices in the Christian tradition. We’ve learned from Hildegard of Bingen, Brother Lawrence, and Dallas Willard. And today, Jeremy explores the profound legacy of Walter Brueggemann, who passed away just weeks ago.

As one of the most influential Old Testament scholars of our time, Brueggemann taught us how to read the scriptures not just for what they say, but for what they imagine—how they invite us to resist empires, lament honestly, and hope boldly.

In this teaching, we explore:

🌀 Brueggemann’s life and theological contributions
📚 What it means to read scripture with prophetic imagination
🏛️ The symbolism of Egypt and Pharaoh as recurring empires in our world
🌊 A poetic re-reading of the Exodus and Red Sea crossing
💭 The dangers of self-deception, the lure of control, and the power of lament
✊ The invitation to imagine Church as an alternative community for justice and compassion

Whether you’re deeply familiar with Brueggemann’s work or hearing his name for the first time, this is a powerful conversation on how scripture—when read poetically—can shake us from numbness and awaken new ways forward.

👇 Who are the voices that have shaped your faith? Drop your “classic reads” in the comments—we’d love to hear them!

#CommonsChurch #ReadsAClassic #WalterBrueggemann #PropheticImagination #Exodus #SpiritualFormation #Theology #Justice #PoetryInScripture

In this week’s special episode of our S5 Reads a Classic series, we dive into the enduring wisdom of philosopher and spiritual teacher Dallas Willard. Join us as we explore his vision of Christian spiritual formation, the kingdom of God, and the slow, transformative work of grace in our lives.

Whether you're new to Willard or returning to his work with fresh eyes, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to rethink discipleship not as mere behavior modification, but as inner transformation rooted in the love of Jesus.

🕊️ Expect insight, reflection, and a thoughtful conversation about the kind of life Jesus invites us into—deeply formed, fully alive, and attuned to the presence of God in ordinary moments.

🎧 Listen in. Take notes. Share with a friend.