Spiritual Formation Beyond Pragmatism

Spiritual Formation Beyond Pragmatism

Author: Kyle Strobel April 8, 2024 Duration: 33:35

In this episode, Kyle discusses the historic evangelical vision of spiritual formation, emphasizing the need for a word-centered, spirit-empowered, whole-life spirituality. Kyle explores the theoretical, practical, and existential aspects of spiritual formation, using prayer as an example. He highlights the need for a balanced approach that includes understanding the theology behind spiritual practices, offering practical guidance, and addressing the subjective experiences and struggles of individuals. Kyle also encourages listeners to draw near to the Lord and consider their own engagement with spiritual formation.

Books mentioned:

* Where Prayer Becomes Real: How Honesty with God Transforms Your Soul by Kyle Strobel and John Coe

* The Holy Spirit and Christian Experience by Simeon Zahl

Episode Overview

00:00Introduction and Overview

02:56Grounding Spiritual Formation in the Historic Evangelical Vision

09:05Theoretical, Practical, and Existential Aspects of Spiritual Formation

26:55Navigating Personal Experiences and Struggles in Spiritual Formation

32:41The Call of Wisdom and Love



Get full access to Spiritual Formation: A Substack by Kyle Strobel at kylestrobel.substack.com/subscribe

In a world filled with noise and distraction, Spiritual Formation: An Invitation to Drawing Near offers a quieter space for reflection. Hosted by author and theologian Kyle Strobel, this podcast explores the often-misunderstood journey of spiritual formation-the gradual process of being shaped into the likeness of Christ. Rather than offering quick fixes or abstract theology, these conversations delve into the practical realities of faith, examining how our daily lives, thoughts, and relationships are transformed by the Spirit's work. Each episode feels like a thoughtful dialogue, unpacking what it means to draw near to God in authenticity and trust. You'll hear discussions that bridge deep Christian tradition with the challenges of modern life, focusing on the heart posture required for genuine growth. This isn't a program for self-improvement, but an invitation to participate in a life shaped by divine grace and presence. For anyone weary of superficial spirituality, this podcast provides substantive companionship for the long road of faith, exploring how formation happens not just in monumental moments, but in the ordinary, everyday surrender to love. Tune in for honest conversations that aim to nourish the soul and reorient our lives around what is truly eternal.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 22

Spiritual Formation: An Invitation to Drawing Near
Podcast Episodes
Special Episode: Folks Who Think I'm Wrong About Stuff [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:17
In this conversation, Kyle is joined by John Whittaker, who does the weekly podcast Bible in Life as well as The Listeners Commentary (which is an audio commentary through scripture). This episode is a special episode wh…
The Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:10
In this final episode of the mini-series on forgotten doctrines of spiritual formation, Kyle explores the doctrine of sanctification. He highlights that while sanctification is not forgotten in the same way as the previo…
The Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation: Infusion [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:18
In this conversation, Kyle discusses the doctrine of infusion as a forgotten doctrine of spiritual formation. He highlights the tendency in the spiritual formation discussion to be a-theological, and emphasizes the impor…
Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:45
In this conversation, Kyle explores the forgotten doctrine of the beatific vision and its role in spiritual formation. He emphasizes that the beatific vision is not just a Roman Catholic doctrine, but a biblical one that…
Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:32
In this conversation, Kyle discusses the forgotten doctrines of spiritual formation and the importance of integrating theology into the conversation. He emphasizes that our beliefs are systematically integrated and canno…
The Future of Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:13
In this episode, Kyle discusses the different waves that have occurred in evangelicalism over the past 50 years through Trevin Wax’s recent article. He explores the history and development of this movement and its potent…
The Need for a Theological Framework in Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:50
In this conversation, Kyle continues his discussion of the importance discontinuity in articulating continuity in spiritual formation. He emphasizes the need to start with discontinuity, recognizing the radical transform…
The Dangers of a Generic Account of Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:24
In this conversation, Kyle discusses the difference between natural and supernatural forms of formation. He introduces the concept of continuity versus discontinuity in spiritual formation and emphasizes the need to star…
Spiritual Growth Beyond Self-Help [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:34
Kyle delves into the nature and task of spiritual formation, with a focus on the dangers of Pelagianism. It explores the distinction between grace and moralism, emphasizing the importance of faith and the work of the Spi…
The Possibility of our Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:06
Kyle reflects on a special episode featuring Dallas Willard's lecture on spiritual formation and the VIM formula. He compares his approach to Willard's and discusses the dangers of self-help and Pelagianism. Kyle emphasi…