Church Is Messy: Bonus Episode - Spiritual Formation

Church is Messy

Rick and Svea discuss a topic about which they both feel passionate: spiritual formation. What is it? How is it different than discipleship? Is it even a biblical term? Listen and catch the vision for why they're so excited about spiritual formation.

Want to take your next step? Check out our classes: https://autumnridge.churchcenter.com/groups/classes-studies?

Topics in this Episode:

• 00:00 Intro
• 00:59 What is spiritual formation and how is it different from discipleship? Spiritual formation includes things that form us other than discipling under Jesus.
• 02:56 How does the Practicing the Way class help define or clarify what spiritual formation is?
• 04:54 Is "spiritual formation" new age, or unbiblical?
• 05:19 What does the Bible say about spiritual formation?
• 07:04 There are so many things that form us spiritually or distract us from being formed by Jesus.
• 10:00 Discussion of various methods of discipleship and whether traditional practices for following Jesus are sufficient in themselves or if there are missing components.
• 11:41 Svea suggests that many believers have neglected the practice of actually spending time with Jesus. This has sometimes been reduced to understanding, believing, and doing the right things, but as the book of James says, even demons know the truth.
• 15:28 "WHO we are" and "HOW we are" and "who we are BECOMING" are all more important than what we do.
• 20:12 All things we do should be shaped and informed by Jesus's example and teaching
• 24:05 Romans 12 explains how spiritual formation isn't mystical or new age-y, but is logical even.
• 25:51 Why is Autumn Ridge leaning into spiritual formation and the Practicing the Way class?