Spiritual Formation: Introduction

Chris and Josh discuss the ‘reformation triangle’ which begins with God’s word and is integrated with meditation and prayer. Why does spiritual formation need to begin with the word? Why can we be confident that God’s word is God’s chosen meeting place? 

Is mysticism the answer to the modern formation void? Many evangelicals say that the lack of an interior life spiritually for many Christians is solved by looking to ancient practices of contemplation. Chris and Josh discuss mysticism and where it is lacking. Then, they direct our attention to why we need to emphasize rational communication in our spiritual formation. 

What is the center and sum of Christian redemption? Where are all the many benefits of salvation found? How do we keep from an “arms-length” theology which finds a gap between ourselves and Christ? Chris and Josh discuss union with Christ and how this doctrine brings all parts and portions of salvation together in one Redeemer. 

How can we rest and work at the same time? In spiritual formation we can make two equal and opposite mistakes. The first is to base our spiritual confidence in our spiritual growth. The second is to become complacent in our Christian life by believing that since we are accepted, we do not need to grow. On this episode of A Time to Think, Chris and Josh discuss the need to hold justification and sanctification simultaneously, so that we can rest in Christ’s finished work and rest in Christ’s continual work. 

How is someone formed spiritually? Chris and Josh discuss one answer to this question - the Spiritual Formation Movement. What are the motives and methods? Where is the movement misguided?

How is growth related to the Christian life? Do Christians need to grow, or is grace free no matter what? Should Christians constantly look at their growth in order to know if they are truly Christians? Chris and Josh begin a series on spiritual formation by talking about growth in the Christian life and how it relates to being formed spiritually. 

How do you know a true church? How do you know a healthy church? Chris and Josh discuss what any church must be and what a healthy church should pursue. 

Why talk about something you’re not thinking about? Chris and Josh discuss Eastern Orthodox theology - something that may not have yet been on your radar but has grown in its popularity recently amongst the younger generation. Chris and Josh discuss the the claim to exclusivity in the Eastern Orthodoxy along with how the salvation offered by the Orthodox differs from the pinnacle of the Christian life for Protestants. 

This episode differs from others where Chris and Josh have distinguished between Christianity and false religion. On this episode of A Time to Think, theological basics of Catholicism are overviewed in order to discuss the practices they inform.

Is all we see all there is? Or, is the universe charged with divine energy? Chris and Josh discuss two opposite ways to view the modern world. Each is based on denial or acceptance of the supernatural.