What is Spiritual Formation?
Spiritual formation is simply the process of becoming more like Jesus Christ. It is the combination of intentional activities (practices), in step with the power of the Holy Spirit, over time, that enable us to become more like Jesus.
We believe that change really is possible. If we commit to intentionally developing the practices of Jesus (silence, solitude, celebration, prayer, fasting etc) we can become more like him. This change on the inside will make a difference on the outside, we will find ourselves naturally responding to life as Jesus would if he was living our lives. This journey of formation and intentional discipleship involves developing new habits. We discover the practices of Jesus and learn to train in them. Many of us have grown up simply trying harder to become more like Jesus. We prefer the idea of training over trying harder. (1 Timothy 4.8). We already apply this idea to many areas of our lives. Running a marathon, playing an instrument, or learning a new language begins with training methodically and purposefully. They can’t be achieved simply by trying harder. It is the same with our spiritual lives. As we intentionally work with the habits and practices of Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, an interior transformation starts to take place. We are far from perfect and yet we are making progress in becoming more like Jesus.
'Spiritual formation in the tradition of Jesus Christ is the process of transformation of the inmost dimension of the human being, the heart, which is the same as the spirit or will. It is being formed (really, transformed) in such a way that its natural expression comes to be the deeds of Christ done in the power of Christ.' (Dallas Willard)
Key to this journey of spiritual formation is growing together with other people. Check out these short videos to discover more about our Spiritual Formation Groups:
