Gerald Sittser | on historical Christian spirituality in the lives of the early church and martyrs.

In this interview, Spencer Dalke talks with theologian and author Gerald Sittser about the rich history of Christian spirituality and what it means to live out faith in everyday life. Sittser describes spirituality as the lived expression of the Gospel, rooted in grace but practiced through disciplines like prayer, Scripture, and faithful obedience. Reflecting on voices from across church history, from early martyrs to desert monks, he highlights the importance of rhythms, resilience, and learning from past traditions that challenge modern assumptions. The conversation ultimately points listeners toward cultivating perseverance and faithfulness in a shifting cultural moment, emphasizing that true success in the Christian life is not power or influence, but steady devotion to Christ—even in weakness, struggle, or apparent failure.  Reviewing historical expressions of spirituality in the church.  Spiritual growth in wilderness, barrenness.  How to pursue faithfulness and fortitude in biblical living today.  “We will never understand Christian spirituality—what it is and what makes it unique—unless we grasp the significance of martyrdom. The early Christians died because they confessed Jesus Christ as Lord. … They believed that Jesus tolerates no rivals. When forced to choose, they chose to follow Jesus, no matter what the price.”  “When Christianity is operating at its best, we’re always going to be a threat … because our ultimate lord is Jesus. It’s not a political party. It’s not a presidential candidate. It’s not an ideology. It’s not a particular system of government. It’s always Jesus the Lord.”  Featured work: Water From a Deep Well: Christian Spirituality from Early Martyrs to Modern Missionaries  Connect with Gerald Sittser on Facebook and at JerrySittser.com.  For more faith-filled, Gospel-centered content, download the Pilgrim Radio app today on Google Play and Apple, or stream at PilgrimRadio.com.