Headline: The Journey from Knowing About God to Truly Being with Him. The Spiritual Formation course is a transformational journey designed to deepen your identity in Christ, cultivate sustainable Christian character, and integrate spiritual health into every area of your life. It moves beyond rote knowledge and surface-level belief, focusing on the intentional process of becoming more like Jesus for the glory of God and the benefit of others. This course is for anyone who is: Seeking a deeper, more intimate, and less frantic relationship with God. Struggling with spiritual burnout or stagnation in their personal walk or ministry. Desiring a holistic, Biblically-grounded understanding of Christian maturity. A leader or mentor looking for tools to foster spiritual health in others. Outcome: You will not just learn about spiritual disciplines; you will practice them, developing a personalized, lifelong "Rule of Life" that sustains your faith.
Curriculum Highlights
This course is structured in three main competency areas:
| Module | Unit Title | Core Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| I: Foundations | Theology of Transformation | * What is Spiritual Formation? Defining the process of being conformed to the image of Christ (2 Cor 3:18). * Biblical foundations (Old & New Testament patterns). * The role of the Holy Spirit (initiator) and Human Intentionality (participant). * Distinguishing Formation from mere Discipleship or Education. |
| II: Identity | The Renovated Heart. | * Identity in Christ: Moving from performance to acceptance/grace. * Self-Awareness & God-Awareness: Understanding your personal story and its impact on your faith (the "soul companion"). * Dealing with Inner Turmoil: Identifying and managing "the true self" vs. "the false self." |
| III: Disciplines | Rhythms of Engagement | * The Purpose of Disciplines: Practices as "means of grace," not merit. * Inward Disciplines: Prayer (contemplative & intercessory), Bible Study/Meditation (Lectio Divina), Fasting, Journaling. * Outward Disciplines: Simplicity/Frugality, Submission, Solitude, Service. * Corporate Disciplines: Worship, Confession, Accountability, Fellowship. |
| IV: Context | Formation in the World | * Vocation & Calling: Connecting faith to daily work and life. * Community & Church: The role of the Body of Christ in spiritual growth. * Spiritual Direction & Mentorship: Seeking guidance and accountability. * Emotional Health & Spirituality: The intersection of psychological and spiritual well-being. |
| V: Integration | Crafting a Rule of Life | * The History of the Rule: Lessons from Monastic and historical Christian practices. * Designing Your Own Rule: Creating sustainable, personalized spiritual rhythms (daily, weekly, yearly). * A Plan for Resilience: Maintaining spiritual health "for the long haul" of ministry and life. |