The Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation

The Forgotten Doctrines of Spiritual Formation

Author: Kyle Strobel August 8, 2024 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 previous “forgotten doctrines,” it is often misunderstood and not properly grounded in scripture. Kyle emphasizes that sanctification is not a self-help project, but a work of God in us. He discusses the distinction between definitive sanctification and progressive sanctification, and the importance of ordering our understanding of salvation around Christ. Kyle also addresses the misconception that sanctification is solely about growth and emphasizes the need for a proper theology of holiness.

Books Mentioned:

Don Payne, Already Sanctified

Kyle Strobel, Jonathan Edwards’s Theology: A Reinterpretation

Kyle Strobel, Formed for the Glory of God: Learning from the Spiritual Practices of Jonathan Edwards

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Doctrine of Sanctification

06:23 Taking Sanctification for Granted

08:22 Reducing the Gospel to Justification

13:16 Definitive Sanctification vs. Progressive Sanctification

18:02 Sanctification as a Degreed Property

20:38 The Importance of a Theology of Holiness

22:36 Ordering Sanctification Around Christ

26:28 Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

29:16 Next Season: Spiritual Formation and the Church



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: 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…
The Renewal of the Mind in Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:13
In this episode, Kyle discusses the pressing issue of spiritual formation and pornography, expanding the discussion from our first “From the Vault” episode, which was a lecture by Dallas Willard. He explores the role of…