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Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered, 2nd Edition
Most books on spiritual formation focus on the individual. But spiritual formation is at the heart of the church's whole purpose for existence. It must be a central task for the church to carry out Christ's mission in the world. This book offers an introduction to spiritual formation set squarely in the local church. The first edition has been well received and widely used as a textbook. The second edition has been updated throughout, incorporates findings from positive psychology, and reflects an Augustinian formation perspective. Foreword by Dallas Willard.
288 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2008
About the author
James C. Wilhoit
14 books7 followersJames C. Wilhoit (PhD, Northwestern University) is the Scripture Press Professor of Christian Formation and Ministry at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, where he has taught for thirty years. He has authored numerous books, including Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 4, 2015
I made the mistake of taking too long to read and finish this book. Once I got to the end, I instantly wanted to start over. It's one I will continue to mull-over and probably re-read in the future. Wilhoit offers a very helpful guide for beginning to imagine how the church can recover/discover its primary task of spiritually forming Christians. The "4 R's" (receiving, remembering, responding, relating) representing different dimensions of community formation provided an easy framework for a daunting task - exploring all the different ways churches can and should practice spiritual formation. Highly recommended for church leaders interested in building models for spiritual formation that help churches grow in their relationship with Jesus.
June 1, 2022
A key purpose of the Christian life is this: How do we become more Christlike in all we say and do? What does it take to grow deeper in Christ? At a time in which the image of the church is undergoing tremendous cynicism, how do we recover from the negativity in order to live as salt and light of the world? For author James Wilhoit, the answer lies in the revival of local congregations to make spiritual formation their key goal. This goal must be manifested in all activities and programs of the Church. The how, the why, and the curriculum for doing it are all described in this book. More importantly, it reminds us that the best crucible for spiritual formation is not the individual disciplines but the Church. Now in its second edition, this book has been updated with positive psychology based on an Augustinian formation perspective. Readers are reminded that spiritual formation is not another kind of self-help project but an expression of the gospel given to the Church. Using the metaphor of public health by providing clean drinking water and vaccinations, Christian Spiritual Formation is about providing the best possible communal environment for individuals to flourish. Wilhoit sets the stage by affirming how spiritual formation need not be something extraordinary. Instead, using ordinary means and ordinary contexts, we can cultivate our souls within the ordinary environment of church and community. He then gives us some principles and patterns that we could adopt. Based on various Orthodox faith traditions, he combines them with some of the modern psychological practices such as Robert Emmon's work on gratitude and reducing anxiety. He uses mostly the spiritual traditions of orthodox theology. He takes inspiration from recent spiritual practitioners like the late Dallas Willard, Thomas Oden, Adrian Van Kaam, etc, as well as the spiritual masters of old. Before presenting his CSF curriculum, he helps us clear the decks about what CSF is and what it is not. This helps sets expectations.
In this second edition, with the onslaught of all kinds of spiritual practices publicly available, Wilhoit adopts "Christian Spiritual Formation" (CSF) instead of merely "Spiritual Formation" popularly used by other spiritualities totally unrelated to the Christian faith. He gives us various images to help us appreciate the process of spiritual formation, such as the three images of nurture, training & struggle, and death &resurrection. This is followed by the 4R curriculum:
1- Receiving
2- Remembering
3- Responding
4- Relating
The rest of the book comprises descriptions of each of these stages followed by assessment questions.
My Thoughts
==============
What I really appreciate is the tight relationship between the 4Rs and the Bible. In each of the curriculum steps, Wilhoit anchors the methodology on Scripture. In fact, all four dimensions of receiving, remembering, responding, and relating are all based on biblical truths. We receive the Word. We remember the Word via meditation and intentional practices. We respond by expressing these truths toward others, and in relating to others, we make known the gospel of Christ. One of the biggest critiques of spiritual practices is the tendency to have psychotherapy dominate the structure and content of the curriculum. Not this book. In fact, Scripture is primary while psychotherapy and positive psychology are there only to aid the progress of the curriculum. When Wilhoit adds the prefix Christian to Spiritual Formation, there is a distinct emphasis on the teachings of Christ. Throughout the descriptions of the processes, we see the use of Scriptures to move the process forward.
Another helpful part of the book is the reminder of six false models of Spiritual Formation. Wilhoit calls them "myths about spiritual growth." It helps correct some of the misconceptions about what spiritual formation entails. Unfortunately, I find the descriptions too brief. It could have been supported with some examples, illustrations, or more explanations about why it is a myth. For example, in a fact-driven world, the "Facts-Only Model" myth might take a little more unpacking. In fact, there will always be more myths and it might be good for the author to provide some framework on how to distinguish myths from genuine spiritual formation. Maybe a comparison table might help. I think there is room to expand on this part of the book, if not in the main chapters, perhaps in the appendix.
Finally, Wilhoit has condensed a wide range of spiritual teachings and insights into this book. From Augustine to Willard; Calvin to Nouwen; the desert fathers to Lauren Winner; readers will be glad to benefit from this wide range of wisdom teachings. This might be intimidating to those who are new to the area of Spiritual Formation. For the community to benefit, a teacher or a guide would be best.
James C. Wilhoit (PhD, Northwestern University) is emeritus professor of Christian education at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, where he taught for over thirty-five years. He is the author or coauthor of numerous books, including Effective Bible Teaching and Discovering Lectio Divina.
Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Academic and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
In this second edition, with the onslaught of all kinds of spiritual practices publicly available, Wilhoit adopts "Christian Spiritual Formation" (CSF) instead of merely "Spiritual Formation" popularly used by other spiritualities totally unrelated to the Christian faith. He gives us various images to help us appreciate the process of spiritual formation, such as the three images of nurture, training & struggle, and death &resurrection. This is followed by the 4R curriculum:
1- Receiving
2- Remembering
3- Responding
4- Relating
The rest of the book comprises descriptions of each of these stages followed by assessment questions.
My Thoughts
==============
What I really appreciate is the tight relationship between the 4Rs and the Bible. In each of the curriculum steps, Wilhoit anchors the methodology on Scripture. In fact, all four dimensions of receiving, remembering, responding, and relating are all based on biblical truths. We receive the Word. We remember the Word via meditation and intentional practices. We respond by expressing these truths toward others, and in relating to others, we make known the gospel of Christ. One of the biggest critiques of spiritual practices is the tendency to have psychotherapy dominate the structure and content of the curriculum. Not this book. In fact, Scripture is primary while psychotherapy and positive psychology are there only to aid the progress of the curriculum. When Wilhoit adds the prefix Christian to Spiritual Formation, there is a distinct emphasis on the teachings of Christ. Throughout the descriptions of the processes, we see the use of Scriptures to move the process forward.
Another helpful part of the book is the reminder of six false models of Spiritual Formation. Wilhoit calls them "myths about spiritual growth." It helps correct some of the misconceptions about what spiritual formation entails. Unfortunately, I find the descriptions too brief. It could have been supported with some examples, illustrations, or more explanations about why it is a myth. For example, in a fact-driven world, the "Facts-Only Model" myth might take a little more unpacking. In fact, there will always be more myths and it might be good for the author to provide some framework on how to distinguish myths from genuine spiritual formation. Maybe a comparison table might help. I think there is room to expand on this part of the book, if not in the main chapters, perhaps in the appendix.
Finally, Wilhoit has condensed a wide range of spiritual teachings and insights into this book. From Augustine to Willard; Calvin to Nouwen; the desert fathers to Lauren Winner; readers will be glad to benefit from this wide range of wisdom teachings. This might be intimidating to those who are new to the area of Spiritual Formation. For the community to benefit, a teacher or a guide would be best.
James C. Wilhoit (PhD, Northwestern University) is emeritus professor of Christian education at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, where he taught for over thirty-five years. He is the author or coauthor of numerous books, including Effective Bible Teaching and Discovering Lectio Divina.
Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Academic and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
July 26, 2022
Born in Seattle, Washington, James C. Wilhoit has served on the faculty of Wheaton College since 1981. Currently, he serves as the Scripture Press Chair of Christian Formation and Ministry. His extensive academic achievements include a Ph.D. from Northwestern in Religion, an M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, a Master of Religious Education from Covenant Theological Seminary, and a B.A. from the University of Washington in History (Wheaton College, (Wheaton, IL), http://www.wheaton.edu/Academics/Facu... (accessed July 15, 2020).
The aim of the author is to stress that spiritual formation is the task of the church (p. 15). Without would take the same theological position as Dallas Willard that the task of the church to be on the "Mission of Christ" is to see believers become formed into the image of Jesus Christ. For the author, everything flows out of 'Christian Spiritual Formation' which refers to the intentional communal process of growing in our relationship with God and becoming conformed to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit (p. 23). The progression is a community first and then growth (p. 183). The church is to create environments in which confession and repentance can take place and people feel safe to admit personal brokenness which manifests itself with the entire church communally confessing their brokenness (p. 184-185). for spiritual formation to be communal it must be (1) intentional; (2) require our engagement; (3) accomplished by the Holy Spirit; (4) is for the glory of God and in the service of others; and (5) has as its means and end the imitation of Christ (p 23).
Without hallmark in this book is to propose a "Spiritual Curriculum" that has four dimensions to Community Formation. They are: (1) Receiving, which is cultivating openness and continual repentance and the practices that would support communal growth would be Confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer. (2) Remembering, which transformational teaching leads to a deep awareness of being part of God's community and his beloved children. The practices that encourage remembering would be teaching, preaching, evangelism, meditation, spiritual guidance, and small groups. (3) Responding, that is fully committed to the conviction that our formation occurs for and through service. The practices that support this are discernment, honoring relational commitments, setting aside prejudices, and ministries of compassion. (4) Relating, that has a conviction that our formation takes place in and through the community. Practices that nurture formation are hospitality, handling conflict, well, honoring relationships, Sabbath observance, and attending to the pace of life (p. 50).
Some of my thoughts related to the application of the material in this book is that it is a great practical reader for leaders in a local church to develop a 'Spiritual Curriculum' for their local parish. Without does cover this in the book all of this flourishes when there is an orthodox understanding of God (revealing Himself in the Trinity), Scripture is inspired, and sin is the culprit behind a man or woman being distanced from God. Grace is that which changes everything. I also am convinced that there is a passion birthed from a pastor's heart to more regularly practice such things as the "Eucharist" which is an act that invites a grace already given to be upon the community of faith and it postures the community to receive, remember, respond and relate in the context of community.
I highly recommend this book and it is a great read for any local leadership team or eldership team and pastoral team to navigate through in order to create a culture that is committed to Christian spiritual formation.
The aim of the author is to stress that spiritual formation is the task of the church (p. 15). Without would take the same theological position as Dallas Willard that the task of the church to be on the "Mission of Christ" is to see believers become formed into the image of Jesus Christ. For the author, everything flows out of 'Christian Spiritual Formation' which refers to the intentional communal process of growing in our relationship with God and becoming conformed to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit (p. 23). The progression is a community first and then growth (p. 183). The church is to create environments in which confession and repentance can take place and people feel safe to admit personal brokenness which manifests itself with the entire church communally confessing their brokenness (p. 184-185). for spiritual formation to be communal it must be (1) intentional; (2) require our engagement; (3) accomplished by the Holy Spirit; (4) is for the glory of God and in the service of others; and (5) has as its means and end the imitation of Christ (p 23).
Without hallmark in this book is to propose a "Spiritual Curriculum" that has four dimensions to Community Formation. They are: (1) Receiving, which is cultivating openness and continual repentance and the practices that would support communal growth would be Confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer. (2) Remembering, which transformational teaching leads to a deep awareness of being part of God's community and his beloved children. The practices that encourage remembering would be teaching, preaching, evangelism, meditation, spiritual guidance, and small groups. (3) Responding, that is fully committed to the conviction that our formation occurs for and through service. The practices that support this are discernment, honoring relational commitments, setting aside prejudices, and ministries of compassion. (4) Relating, that has a conviction that our formation takes place in and through the community. Practices that nurture formation are hospitality, handling conflict, well, honoring relationships, Sabbath observance, and attending to the pace of life (p. 50).
Some of my thoughts related to the application of the material in this book is that it is a great practical reader for leaders in a local church to develop a 'Spiritual Curriculum' for their local parish. Without does cover this in the book all of this flourishes when there is an orthodox understanding of God (revealing Himself in the Trinity), Scripture is inspired, and sin is the culprit behind a man or woman being distanced from God. Grace is that which changes everything. I also am convinced that there is a passion birthed from a pastor's heart to more regularly practice such things as the "Eucharist" which is an act that invites a grace already given to be upon the community of faith and it postures the community to receive, remember, respond and relate in the context of community.
I highly recommend this book and it is a great read for any local leadership team or eldership team and pastoral team to navigate through in order to create a culture that is committed to Christian spiritual formation.
January 26, 2009
Great book covering many aspects of discipleship in a community context. It seems to be an extension of Dallas Willard's work to get Protestants to care more about spiritual formation, putting it at the center of community life, rather than the periphery.
One particularly valuable insight was the point that the gospel is what saves us, but it is also what sanctifies us. It's not possible to grow as a Christian without the same grace that saved us.
One particularly valuable insight was the point that the gospel is what saves us, but it is also what sanctifies us. It's not possible to grow as a Christian without the same grace that saved us.
January 4, 2010
If you like Dallas Willard, you will really like how Jim takes Willard's "curriculum for Christlikeness" and works it out at the local church level. If you are not into the Christian spirituality yet, this is a good place to start.
July 15, 2025
While Wilhoit offers some good insights on how to grow in christlikeness, the book is incredibly busy and even tangential at times. Also, the title is misleading; this book is much more focused on individual growth, rather than corporate growrh.
October 11, 2010
This Book was excellent. I think that anyone in ministry out to read and interact with Wilhoit. It is challenging to read how he sees spiritual formation happening within the church.
Read
April 5, 2016There comes a point in the Christian's life where they recognize the need to grow into spiritual maturity, to be nourished in the life of Jesus, and be effective in His kingdom. We often speak of this in individualistic terms, (e.g., "quiet times with God") or as a one-on-one environment (e.g., "discipleship"). Both of these are equally necessary, yet incomplete. The Christian needs the Christian(s). We need the spiritual formation that is energized and provided by a community of like-minded believers. We need the whole family. So then, I introduce to you James Wilhoit's book, entitled, Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community.
There are many good books on spiritual growth, but Wilhoit's, which emphasizes a heavy communal approach, is a worthy choice. Spiritual formation is described in Wilhoit's own words as "the intentional communal process of growing in our relationship with God and becoming conformed to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit" (23), and presents the local church as an irreplaceable necessity. Wilhoit asserts that spiritual formation is the central task of the church, rather than a beneficial program. But rather than placing the loci of formation on a few people or programs, he suggests that the local congregation "must resume the practice of making spiritual formation of their members into Christlikeness their primary goal" (10). This topic of spiritual maturity seems to be one of the more evasive practices of the church, because it is so easy to lob abstract theoretical grenades into the congregation that make little sense or are difficult to apply to the tangible sphere of recreation, family, and work. There are plenty of books on spiritual formation and discipleship that start with the imperatives of Scripture, but leave you to guess the implementation of those Scriptural truths. Granted, while no one wants to be mechanical or formulaic with spiritual maturity, it would still be nice to have a tangible push in the right direction, even if only to polish the rust from our orthopraxy. What I appreciated most about this book is Wilhoit's practical insight into the disciplines of spiritual formation in community. Here's a glance...
Outline.
In the first chapter, Wilhoit quickly sets the groundwork for spiritual growth in the Gospel. A lot of groundwork!---seven pages are devoted to unpacking the meaning and implications of the Gospel for the Christian's identity, so as to prevent moralistic therapy from pervading the process that he outlines in the book. This chapter is excellent, and can stand on it's own, with anthems such as, "All our spiritual problems come from a failure to apply the gospel," (32) and "the gospel is the power of God for the beginning, middle, and end of salvation" (27). These indicative truths serve as a divine railway to guide the reader into a practical set of imperatives designed for measured growth. What follows chapter one is a curriculum (ch. 2) made up of four responses to the gospel that are designed by Scripture to take a church through a holistic engagement of spiritual nourishment, discipleship, and formation. These four are receiving, remembering, responding, and relating. Each subsequent chapter is a lens for viewing the practices in terms of community and the local church. Spread throughout the remaining 8 chapters is the following narrative...
Chapter 3 ~ How the Gospel shapes us to receive. This chapter is centered on cultivating openness and repentance through confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer.
Chapter 4 ~ Receiving in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 5 ~ Why the Gospel must be remembered. This chapter emphasizes the need for "transformational teaching leading to a deep awareness" (50). This covers everything from preaching to small groups.
Chapter 6 ~ Remembering in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 7 ~ How the Gospel moves us to respond to others. This chapter seeks to focus our growth and formation in the act and attitudes of service. Topics include discernment, commitment, and ministries of compassion.=
Chapter 8 ~ How to respond in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 9 ~ Why we can't enjoy the Gospel alone. Our formation takes place in community. This chapter stresses the absolute need for others in your life for Christlike growth to thrive. Elements of practice include hospitality, conflict management, honor, Sabbath observance, and keeping up with the pace of life.
Chapter 10 ~ How to relate in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
My favorite things about the book...
It's holistic.
Wilhoit's does not settle for anything less than seeking to become fully mature in Christ. He writes with a "already-but-not-yet" balance, while also seeking every facet of church life that can be useful for growth, and squeezing it until it bleeds.
It's theological.
He takes his cues from the early church, rather than pop-psychology, and the Scriptures, rather than pragmatic advice. The drive of this book is to experience Jesus Christ, rather than nurse a self-esteem, and the path Wilhoit sometimes take involves repentance and self-denial.
It's practical.
He establishes an in-depth curriculum for spiritual formation, and makes specific recommendations for how to carry out each of the goals presented. After describing these practices on a personal level, he shows what it might look like on a communal level, yet, without ever faulting to the formulaic.
It's researched.
The footnotes alone are worth the price of the book! At every chapter, he lists recommended readings that cover a variety of different approaches and backgrounds useful for the topic at hand. Even better, he includes a short excerpt on each book!
Conclusion.
While I have not yet attempted to put this book into practice, and cannot vouch for its veracity, quite yet, it is to date one of the best attempts at formulating a "plan" for spiritual growth in the church I've ever read. My main complaint is that I have not been able to see it proven by experience, since this book is intended to cover a Christians's lifespan, rather than a three-month programatic "discipleship" class. In a comical twist, it is an unverifiable hypothesis that can only be proven on the deathbed. For this reason, it is both a blessing and a curse. All considered, I must highly recommend this book for looking so far down the road.
Post from ChristopherLazo.com. http://wp.me/p1t0St-19n
There are many good books on spiritual growth, but Wilhoit's, which emphasizes a heavy communal approach, is a worthy choice. Spiritual formation is described in Wilhoit's own words as "the intentional communal process of growing in our relationship with God and becoming conformed to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit" (23), and presents the local church as an irreplaceable necessity. Wilhoit asserts that spiritual formation is the central task of the church, rather than a beneficial program. But rather than placing the loci of formation on a few people or programs, he suggests that the local congregation "must resume the practice of making spiritual formation of their members into Christlikeness their primary goal" (10). This topic of spiritual maturity seems to be one of the more evasive practices of the church, because it is so easy to lob abstract theoretical grenades into the congregation that make little sense or are difficult to apply to the tangible sphere of recreation, family, and work. There are plenty of books on spiritual formation and discipleship that start with the imperatives of Scripture, but leave you to guess the implementation of those Scriptural truths. Granted, while no one wants to be mechanical or formulaic with spiritual maturity, it would still be nice to have a tangible push in the right direction, even if only to polish the rust from our orthopraxy. What I appreciated most about this book is Wilhoit's practical insight into the disciplines of spiritual formation in community. Here's a glance...
Outline.
In the first chapter, Wilhoit quickly sets the groundwork for spiritual growth in the Gospel. A lot of groundwork!---seven pages are devoted to unpacking the meaning and implications of the Gospel for the Christian's identity, so as to prevent moralistic therapy from pervading the process that he outlines in the book. This chapter is excellent, and can stand on it's own, with anthems such as, "All our spiritual problems come from a failure to apply the gospel," (32) and "the gospel is the power of God for the beginning, middle, and end of salvation" (27). These indicative truths serve as a divine railway to guide the reader into a practical set of imperatives designed for measured growth. What follows chapter one is a curriculum (ch. 2) made up of four responses to the gospel that are designed by Scripture to take a church through a holistic engagement of spiritual nourishment, discipleship, and formation. These four are receiving, remembering, responding, and relating. Each subsequent chapter is a lens for viewing the practices in terms of community and the local church. Spread throughout the remaining 8 chapters is the following narrative...
Chapter 3 ~ How the Gospel shapes us to receive. This chapter is centered on cultivating openness and repentance through confession, worship, sacraments, and prayer.
Chapter 4 ~ Receiving in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 5 ~ Why the Gospel must be remembered. This chapter emphasizes the need for "transformational teaching leading to a deep awareness" (50). This covers everything from preaching to small groups.
Chapter 6 ~ Remembering in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 7 ~ How the Gospel moves us to respond to others. This chapter seeks to focus our growth and formation in the act and attitudes of service. Topics include discernment, commitment, and ministries of compassion.=
Chapter 8 ~ How to respond in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
Chapter 9 ~ Why we can't enjoy the Gospel alone. Our formation takes place in community. This chapter stresses the absolute need for others in your life for Christlike growth to thrive. Elements of practice include hospitality, conflict management, honor, Sabbath observance, and keeping up with the pace of life.
Chapter 10 ~ How to relate in community. How to cultivate the last chapter in the local church.
My favorite things about the book...
It's holistic.
Wilhoit's does not settle for anything less than seeking to become fully mature in Christ. He writes with a "already-but-not-yet" balance, while also seeking every facet of church life that can be useful for growth, and squeezing it until it bleeds.
It's theological.
He takes his cues from the early church, rather than pop-psychology, and the Scriptures, rather than pragmatic advice. The drive of this book is to experience Jesus Christ, rather than nurse a self-esteem, and the path Wilhoit sometimes take involves repentance and self-denial.
It's practical.
He establishes an in-depth curriculum for spiritual formation, and makes specific recommendations for how to carry out each of the goals presented. After describing these practices on a personal level, he shows what it might look like on a communal level, yet, without ever faulting to the formulaic.
It's researched.
The footnotes alone are worth the price of the book! At every chapter, he lists recommended readings that cover a variety of different approaches and backgrounds useful for the topic at hand. Even better, he includes a short excerpt on each book!
Conclusion.
While I have not yet attempted to put this book into practice, and cannot vouch for its veracity, quite yet, it is to date one of the best attempts at formulating a "plan" for spiritual growth in the church I've ever read. My main complaint is that I have not been able to see it proven by experience, since this book is intended to cover a Christians's lifespan, rather than a three-month programatic "discipleship" class. In a comical twist, it is an unverifiable hypothesis that can only be proven on the deathbed. For this reason, it is both a blessing and a curse. All considered, I must highly recommend this book for looking so far down the road.
Posted with BlogsyPost from ChristopherLazo.com. http://wp.me/p1t0St-19n
June 7, 2021
For me, it was quite challenging to get through the book. I think it's the academic structure of the book that I had a difficult time with (but that is me and my brain). I did appreciate the little charts included here and there that visually explained the points he was making. I also really appreciated the little grey block sections that explain a certain topic or word. This book definitely follows a structured format. Each chapter includes some quotes by theologians, charts (sometimes) and the grey block sections I described above and ends with a list of resources available for those who want further reading on the chapter's topic. The points made in each chapter includes scripture and show how it is shown in scripture.
This book definitely will help in structuring out the culture of discipleship in our daily life and/or church. The author makes it clear that we cannot force anyone to experience growth, but we do have a responsibility of creating a culture where we allow for growth to happen. So with that he includes in each chapter what practical ways/practices we as a church can foster into our daily life: forgiveness, confession, Scripture memorization, etc.
I also really like the beginning of the book. It sets the reader in the right direction for understanding the rest of the book by explaining that the gospel does not work only up to the point leading to conversion nor only in the moment of conversion, but all to eternity until we reach heaven. I am so thankful for this clarity of insight that the gospel is a need in a Christian 'till the end.
It looks like the more I write, the more things I appreciate about this book. haha. You should read it. :)
This book definitely will help in structuring out the culture of discipleship in our daily life and/or church. The author makes it clear that we cannot force anyone to experience growth, but we do have a responsibility of creating a culture where we allow for growth to happen. So with that he includes in each chapter what practical ways/practices we as a church can foster into our daily life: forgiveness, confession, Scripture memorization, etc.
I also really like the beginning of the book. It sets the reader in the right direction for understanding the rest of the book by explaining that the gospel does not work only up to the point leading to conversion nor only in the moment of conversion, but all to eternity until we reach heaven. I am so thankful for this clarity of insight that the gospel is a need in a Christian 'till the end.
It looks like the more I write, the more things I appreciate about this book. haha. You should read it. :)
April 25, 2024
Disclaimer: I started this book because I was going on a trip through the Middle East with Jim. However, I finished this book because of the heart for God that Jim writes of throughout. While I may not have a ministry position within the church and cannot comment on the effectiveness of some of the practices in a church setting, I can say that on a personal level this will make me think more deliberately on God and interact with others in a more God-like way.
He says it is not the size of our faith that matters, even the size of a mustard seed, God can move through it. And reminds us that a promise is only as good as the one who makes it. So when God promises that when we meditate on his Word, we can be sure we will prosper. Like God's grace, grace too is our power. That power will change lives - start the healing, bring comfort, and bring many to the redemption only Christ gives. Amen to that.
He says it is not the size of our faith that matters, even the size of a mustard seed, God can move through it. And reminds us that a promise is only as good as the one who makes it. So when God promises that when we meditate on his Word, we can be sure we will prosper. Like God's grace, grace too is our power. That power will change lives - start the healing, bring comfort, and bring many to the redemption only Christ gives. Amen to that.
February 2, 2025
The epitome of it should have been a blog.
It's frustrating because there are some really good and helpful things scattered throughout this book. I mean, the overall teaching of the book is incredibly helpful!
Wilhoit proposes a "Spiritual Curriculum" that has four dimensions to Community Formation: (1) Receiving, which is cultivating openness and continual repentance; (2) Remembering, where transformational teaching leads to a deep awareness of being part of God's community; (3) Responding, that is fully committed to the conviction that our formation occurs for and through service; and (4) Relating, where formation takes place in and through community. Additionally, the final chapter on "High-Impact Practices" contains a litany of proven practices that foster formation. However...
This book was so circular and so redundant. How many ways can you say the same thing? Apparently 288 pages worth.
It's frustrating because there are some really good and helpful things scattered throughout this book. I mean, the overall teaching of the book is incredibly helpful!
Wilhoit proposes a "Spiritual Curriculum" that has four dimensions to Community Formation: (1) Receiving, which is cultivating openness and continual repentance; (2) Remembering, where transformational teaching leads to a deep awareness of being part of God's community; (3) Responding, that is fully committed to the conviction that our formation occurs for and through service; and (4) Relating, where formation takes place in and through community. Additionally, the final chapter on "High-Impact Practices" contains a litany of proven practices that foster formation. However...
This book was so circular and so redundant. How many ways can you say the same thing? Apparently 288 pages worth.
January 28, 2025
I read this book for my spiritual factors of Growing church’s class, and I really enjoyed it. The pursuit of Christlikeness in the Christian life both in individual and communal hemispheres with dependence on the Spirit that drives it is core to this book. I would recommend going through it with leaders in the church or in a more formal discipleship opportunity.
Encouraging read to my heart to always go back to the cross of Christ again, and again. Forever. Wilhoit states; “Much of our failure in conceptualizing spiritual formation comes from our failure to keep the gospel central to our ministry.” This I couldn’t agree more with. The Gospel has to be central to everything, for Christ is, and should be our everything.
A legit good read.
Encouraging read to my heart to always go back to the cross of Christ again, and again. Forever. Wilhoit states; “Much of our failure in conceptualizing spiritual formation comes from our failure to keep the gospel central to our ministry.” This I couldn’t agree more with. The Gospel has to be central to everything, for Christ is, and should be our everything.
A legit good read.
July 13, 2017
This short text on spiritual formation offers solid insight and wisdom for how to develop a fellowship of Believers who are actively growing in Christ-likeness. It also, surprisingly, has given me much to think about in the classroom, especially in how to create a learning environment where students feel respected, honored, and loved.
January 24, 2024
Wilhoit addressed many familiar topics through a fresh (to me) lens. I took lots of notes and am eager to review them, as I think I missed the cohesive whole in lieu of my focused interest in the foundations. Great food for thought and I’m hopeful I’ll be able to incorporate some new perspective into our approach for spiritual formation.
September 27, 2019
I took a class in Spiritual Formation
and the instructor recommended this book as a requirement.
I am still reading this book: many of my highlights were in Chapters 3, 4
But it is worth the money & the time money
Learn, discover & Enjoy.
and the instructor recommended this book as a requirement.
I am still reading this book: many of my highlights were in Chapters 3, 4
But it is worth the money & the time money
Learn, discover & Enjoy.
December 28, 2017
Spiritual growth does not happen in a relational vacuum. "Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered" solidifies the necessity of church-based discipleship for every believer in Christ.
April 11, 2018
I won't recommend this book, since its organization doesn't make much sense to me.
But I appreciate how the author depicts grace-driven discipleship, with a passion for the local church.
But I appreciate how the author depicts grace-driven discipleship, with a passion for the local church.
April 23, 2021
Found very helpful
January 13, 2022
Dense, but so good. Thoroughly researched and written. I’ll come back to this book a lot throughout the next several years, I’m sure.
April 21, 2025
10/10. He touched on all the points I wanted him to from generational patterns to Douglas Hyde.
February 1, 2013
Wilhoit’s approach is very academic feeling, but still very enlightening when I think about Christian Spiritual formation.
The book flows around four relationship experiences: Receiving, Remembering, Responding, Relating. Within each segment, Wilhoit reminds us of God at work in and around the relationships in our lives.
Receiving: we receive the Grace of God which grows faith within us.
Remembering: this is the grounding or the roots to the whole Christian life. Remembering is about the focal piece of our new identity as saved people, saved by the Grace of God through Jesus.
Responding: this is the expression of faith within us. It’s something that is like a blooming into action. It’s fostered and active.
Relating: this is where being-formed people continue to connect with others. This piece is all about seeking spiritually enriching community and opportunities for expressing love to others.
The most helpful pieces from the book were the twelve “Community Spiritual Formation Corollaries:”
“All persons are formed spiritually. It may be in either as positive or negative direction. This formation may involve the cultivation of virtues that promote trust in God ans foster social compassion or may leave persons wary, self-protective, and unable to promote the welfare of society” (p.17).
“Christian spiritual formation: (1) is intentional; (2) is communal; (3) requires our engagement; (4) is accomplished by the Holy Spirit; (5) is for the glory of God and the service of others; and (6) has as its means and end the imitation of Christ” (p.23).
“The gospel is the power of God for the beginning, middle, and end of salvation. It is not merely what we need to proclaim to unbelievers; the gospel also needs to permeate our entire Christian experience” (p.29).
“Christian spiritual formation seeks to foster a joyful apprenticeship in which we learn to live out the great invitations of Jesus, especially those concerning the life of prayer and love” (p.45).
“The fertile field for formation is in a community genuinely aware of the depth of their sin and the reality of their spiritual thirst. True formation requires that the community deeply understands that they cannot cure the sickness of their souls through willpower alone” (p.63).
“Our soul-thirst is powerful, and it makes all of us idolaters. The Bible sees idolatry as a universal problem. Communities have a unique way of embodying a corporate pride that blinds them to forms of idolatry. Also, faith communities can challenge idolatrous practices like racism in ways an isolated Christian seldom will” (p.76).
“Worship filled with prayer and praise and opportunities for confession, repentance, receiving the sacraments, hearing and giving testimonies of God’s activity, and learning/challenge is the most important context of community formation” (p.86).
“‘Be subject to one another our of reverence for Christ’ (Eph. 5:20). Submission, restorative discipline, and accountable spiritual leadership are ancient formative practices that mark healthy formative churches” (p.90).
“Christian spiritual formation should always be more than the teaching ministry of the church, but never less. True formational teaching is compressive, deeply orthodox, healthy, and anointed by the Spirit of God” (p.139).
“True Christian spiritual formation forms Christians with a deep identity and engagement with the church worldwide” (p.156).
“Evangelism is an essential part of spiritual formation. Evangelism, as people are called to faith in Christ, is the initial act of Christian formation. The act of evangelism is a powerful means of formation for the believer who reaches out in love to share the good news” (p.167).
“Conflict has a unique way of forming us. In conflict our natural patterns of defensiveness arise, and in this vulnerable place we can experience much growth as we lean that Jesus’ teachings are so sensible” (p.174).
With these concepts in the front of my imatination at the moment, I wonder what my move is. I’m also wondering what moves God is already in the process of doing in and around me and within the lives of others around me.
As I skim through the book looking over my highlight streaks and notes, I see this line from page 75: “Christian spiritual formation is not primarily about programs or techniques, but it is first and foremost about an approach to life.” That sentence sums up all twelve corollaries and four relationship that this book is all about.
…spiritual formation isn’t a class experience but an approach to life that is about receiving new life from God, remembering this new life’s cause and call, responding to this new life invitation by following Jesus as we’re recieving the ability and faith to do so, and relating with others in this lifestyle and being sent out to relate to all others in need of new life from God through Jesus.
The book flows around four relationship experiences: Receiving, Remembering, Responding, Relating. Within each segment, Wilhoit reminds us of God at work in and around the relationships in our lives.
Receiving: we receive the Grace of God which grows faith within us.
Remembering: this is the grounding or the roots to the whole Christian life. Remembering is about the focal piece of our new identity as saved people, saved by the Grace of God through Jesus.
Responding: this is the expression of faith within us. It’s something that is like a blooming into action. It’s fostered and active.
Relating: this is where being-formed people continue to connect with others. This piece is all about seeking spiritually enriching community and opportunities for expressing love to others.
The most helpful pieces from the book were the twelve “Community Spiritual Formation Corollaries:”
“All persons are formed spiritually. It may be in either as positive or negative direction. This formation may involve the cultivation of virtues that promote trust in God ans foster social compassion or may leave persons wary, self-protective, and unable to promote the welfare of society” (p.17).
“Christian spiritual formation: (1) is intentional; (2) is communal; (3) requires our engagement; (4) is accomplished by the Holy Spirit; (5) is for the glory of God and the service of others; and (6) has as its means and end the imitation of Christ” (p.23).
“The gospel is the power of God for the beginning, middle, and end of salvation. It is not merely what we need to proclaim to unbelievers; the gospel also needs to permeate our entire Christian experience” (p.29).
“Christian spiritual formation seeks to foster a joyful apprenticeship in which we learn to live out the great invitations of Jesus, especially those concerning the life of prayer and love” (p.45).
“The fertile field for formation is in a community genuinely aware of the depth of their sin and the reality of their spiritual thirst. True formation requires that the community deeply understands that they cannot cure the sickness of their souls through willpower alone” (p.63).
“Our soul-thirst is powerful, and it makes all of us idolaters. The Bible sees idolatry as a universal problem. Communities have a unique way of embodying a corporate pride that blinds them to forms of idolatry. Also, faith communities can challenge idolatrous practices like racism in ways an isolated Christian seldom will” (p.76).
“Worship filled with prayer and praise and opportunities for confession, repentance, receiving the sacraments, hearing and giving testimonies of God’s activity, and learning/challenge is the most important context of community formation” (p.86).
“‘Be subject to one another our of reverence for Christ’ (Eph. 5:20). Submission, restorative discipline, and accountable spiritual leadership are ancient formative practices that mark healthy formative churches” (p.90).
“Christian spiritual formation should always be more than the teaching ministry of the church, but never less. True formational teaching is compressive, deeply orthodox, healthy, and anointed by the Spirit of God” (p.139).
“True Christian spiritual formation forms Christians with a deep identity and engagement with the church worldwide” (p.156).
“Evangelism is an essential part of spiritual formation. Evangelism, as people are called to faith in Christ, is the initial act of Christian formation. The act of evangelism is a powerful means of formation for the believer who reaches out in love to share the good news” (p.167).
“Conflict has a unique way of forming us. In conflict our natural patterns of defensiveness arise, and in this vulnerable place we can experience much growth as we lean that Jesus’ teachings are so sensible” (p.174).
With these concepts in the front of my imatination at the moment, I wonder what my move is. I’m also wondering what moves God is already in the process of doing in and around me and within the lives of others around me.
As I skim through the book looking over my highlight streaks and notes, I see this line from page 75: “Christian spiritual formation is not primarily about programs or techniques, but it is first and foremost about an approach to life.” That sentence sums up all twelve corollaries and four relationship that this book is all about.
…spiritual formation isn’t a class experience but an approach to life that is about receiving new life from God, remembering this new life’s cause and call, responding to this new life invitation by following Jesus as we’re recieving the ability and faith to do so, and relating with others in this lifestyle and being sent out to relate to all others in need of new life from God through Jesus.
May 30, 2013
If I had to sum up three reasons why you should read this book here they are: (1) this book is Gospel-centered not only in word but in truth. The author sets out at the beginning of the book to clarify what Gospel-centered spiritual formation looks like (23-32). And the rest of the book ties back to this concept. Time and again you’ll find warnings against legalism and appropriate ways to apply the Gospel to particulars. (2) This book follows a simple paradigm. While I could fault Wilhoit’s categories with a little overlap, he lays out four dimensions of spiritual formation that are necessary for the growth of the believer. These are Receiving, Responding, Remembering, and Relating. He fleshes out all four of these and shows their necessity and then how they can be implemented in the church. (3) This book remains church-oriented without becoming overly prescriptive. The author makes some specific suggestions from time to time, but overall Wilhoit gives a solid philosophy and biblical theology and gives some pointers on application. This book is not another program for church growth. It is a way of thinking -- a paradigm of how we should go about helping believers grow in Christ.
April 27, 2022
An explication of "Christian Spiritual Formation" (CSF) and what it can do for the church and faith.
The author sets forth the premises of "Christian Spiritual Formation": the importance of receiving, remembering, responding, and relating, and how the practices and disciplines involved in the faith shared collectively can help form and shape Christian faith and witness. Seven practices are discussed which can be fruitful in discipleship.
A bit Reformed at times, but overall a great resource for considering how to cultivate faith and grow disciples. Very highly recommended.
**--galley received as part of early review program
The author sets forth the premises of "Christian Spiritual Formation": the importance of receiving, remembering, responding, and relating, and how the practices and disciplines involved in the faith shared collectively can help form and shape Christian faith and witness. Seven practices are discussed which can be fruitful in discipleship.
A bit Reformed at times, but overall a great resource for considering how to cultivate faith and grow disciples. Very highly recommended.
**--galley received as part of early review program
April 10, 2015
Sound book with a solid premise. Should be helpful as a resource for teaching and preaching christian formation within a congregation. Not a book specifically about building a particularly ministry or helping lead a community in specific practices or programs, it is more of an apology and theological underpinning for a more holistic attitude toward Christian formation. It is a helpful resource but would use it in conjunction with some other materials.
May 27, 2024
This was a great read that I’ll return too many times. Most books on spiritual formation are focused on individual formation. This was especially fresh because of its community focus. “Spiritual formation for the sake of others”. The emphasis on community made it a practical tool for anyone looking to foster intentional discipleship to Jesus in their circle of people.
February 4, 2026
The content was great but I had a hard time with the writing style!
September 7, 2016
Thought provoking for any church leader that wants to be serious about how the church is going to raise up disciples of Christ. While instructional and theological, the author took time to expand the practical principles for making spiritual formation actually happen in the local congregation.
August 12, 2011
Very good book. It views spritual formation from a different perspective than other books I have read on formation. Deals a lot with brokeness.
June 1, 2014
A very helpful book for anyone wishing to improve the quality of worship in their own congregation.
November 13, 2014
Very practical views on incorporating our church community into our everyday Christian walks. Loved this book!!!
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