The Need for a Theological Framework in Spiritual Formation

The Need for a Theological Framework in Spiritual Formation

Author: Kyle Strobel June 27, 2024 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 transformation that occurs in spiritual formation, only then making the move to continuity. We should, in other words, articulate natural formation within a framework of the supernatural, to avoid the errors of demonizing nature or alienating grace. Kyle uses the tension between the goodness of creation and the completeness of the Fall to explore the errors that can be made when folks over-emphasize or reduce one side of this tension. This leads him into a discussion of spiritual formation and psychological approaches, to advance a distinctively Christian integration.

Kyle mentioned “The Way of the Lamb” podcast, which can be found here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Need for Proper Language in Spiritual Formation

06:18 The Theological Importance of the Fall

09:41 Avoiding Errors in Discussing the Fall and Creation

14:25 The Need for Integration of Psychology and Theology

29:31 The Role of God's Work and Human Agency in Formation

38:35 The Dangers of Worldliness and Reductionism in Formation

41:03 Invitation to Draw Near and Reflect on Personal Calling



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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
Dallas Willard on Pornography and Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:24:21
This episode is part of a special series featuring talks on spiritual formation from the Institute for Spiritual Formation at Talbot School of Theology. The specific lecture is titled “Beyond Pornography” by Dallas Willa…
The Sanctification Gap [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:13
In this conversation, Kyle discusses the concept of the sanctification gap and its implications for the Christian life. Looking at Richard Lovelace’s account and well as John Coe’s development, Kyle attends to how we can…
Addressing False Spirituality [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:15
In this conversation, Kyle focuses on Colossians 2 and 3, where Paul addresses false spirituality and calls believers to set their minds on Christ. Key here is understanding what Paul is warning us against in Colossians…
Gospel-Shaped Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:02
In this conversation, Kyle explores the concept of spiritual theology and its importance for guiding our understanding of spiritual formation. He emphasizes that we must be careful not to allow our spiritual formation to…
Bonus Episode: The Nature of Contemplation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:20:56
In this bonus episode, Kyle is interviewed by Belinda Drummond about the nature of a distinctively evangelical vision of contemplation. They discuss the theology of contemplation and its practical application for pastors…
Word-Centered, Spirit-Empowered, Whole-Life Spirituality [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:18
In this episode, Kyle introduces the concept of evangelical spirituality as a Word-centered, Spirit-empowered, whole-life spirituality. He explains how he was impacted by the spirituality of the evangelical tradition, pa…
Temptations in Spiritual Formation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:21
In this episode, Kyle reflects on the goal of this podcast and his academic work in spiritual formation. Kyle shares his academic journey from biblical studies to focusing on spiritual formation and theology. He emphasiz…
Spiritual Formation Beyond Pragmatism [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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 e…
The Task of Spiritual Theology [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:45
In this episode we talk about the nature of spiritual theology and why without a distinctively spiritual theology, spiritual formation will cease to be Christian. Several things were mentioned in this episode that you ca…
What is Spiritual Formation and Why Do Critics Get it Wrong [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:39
Welcome to Spiritual Formation: An Invitation to Drawing Near, which is a podcast aimed at recovering the Word-centered, Spirit-empowered, whole-life spirituality that was central to the original evangelical vision. The…