How can we become better at listening to each other? – The Shema series E3

How can we model God’s love, and show what it looks like to love others, by truly listening?

In this episode, Noël, Esther and special guest Siân Rees discuss how Christians can become better listeners, both inside and outside the church context.

They emphasise that listening begins with love, humility and attention: choosing to prefer others, resist distractions and be fully present. They reflect on Scripture, including James’ call to be quick to listen and slow to speak, the unity of the early Church in Acts, and Jesus’ use of questions and parables. They explore good listening as a spiritual discipline shaped by prayer, Scripture, community and the Holy Spirit.

The conversation highlights the need for patience, empathy and self-examination, especially when discussing faith with those who think differently.

Timestamps

(00:00) - Intro

(01:32) - How do we model good listening within the church and society?

(02:22) - Loving others by giving them time and attention

(03:16) - Listening requires humility

(03:56) - Focused attention and being fully present

(04:43) - Distractions, unhelpful mindsets and learning to trust God

(07:14) - What can we learn from the unity and purposefulness of the early Church community?