What is a Christian Mystic?

Review: WHAT THE MYSTICS KNOW: Seven Pathways to Your Deeper Self
by RICHARD ROHR, CAC.org
Reviewed by David Bradshaw, Blissfull.org

INTRODUCTION

I’ve been a fan of Richard Rohr since reading “Falling Upward” — on the topic of growing up spiritually in the second half of life in 2013… and his classic “Eager To Love” — also on the topic of Franciscan mysticism in 2014.

Richard Rohr is an authentic spiritual teacher who promotes balancing Christian contemplation with action. His views are a unique blend of orthodox, yet iconoclastic (meaning he’s an equal opportunity religious offender in a good way).

So, what exactly is a Christian mystic? Since the word mystic has some negative baggage, as in “so heavenly minded they’re of no earthly good”, I was interested to read what the widely respected Franciscan Friar had to say on the subject.

Rohr defines a “Christian mystic” is anyone who places experiencing God personally as their number one priority, as opposed to simply knowing about God in Scripture, church doctrine and theology. Rohr advocates prioritizing God-centeredness to rule over self-centeredness, a basic Kingdom principle.

THE SIMPLE TRUTH