Whether Myers-Briggs or some other tool, I always seem to “end up in the middle” for some reason? Not that that is a bad thing, it just always seems to leave me wondering “where I belong”? For instance, on the aspect of introversion or extroversion, I always end up scoring equally on both! I guess I’m an introvert from the standpoint of receiving “energy”, (loving solitude for that), but I love being with people and interacting with them, (it just wears me out emotionally rather than energizing me, so I must always return to solitude to recharge.)
For the most part, I am usually, (I say usually because I often take these assessments in different “seasons” to see where I am), a “T-J” on the Myers-Briggs scoring, although not strongly. But, I am always in the middle of “E-I” and “S-N”. What I’ve learned from all these assessments, (aptitude, personality, etc.), is that we don’t “have” to be any particular “type”. The usefulness in all these assessments is to reveal our strengths and weaknesses, and use that information to better understand God’s plans and will for our lives.
So, by all means, take and use Myers-Briggs, Strengthsfinder, LifeKeys, and other good assessments for helping determine your “gifts”, aptitudes, personality, etc. But, remember that the key to truly understanding and benefitting from them is to seek God’s guidance and wisdom regarding them. Prayer (the “listening” type) and quiet reflection are the best way to “hear” what God has to say about those things, then seeking affirmation, encouragement and accountability within community. Once you have all that . . . get out there and use it. There’s work to be done, God is making all things new (a new heaven and earth), and He desires us to be a part of that beautiful work.
Oh, and one more thing for humor’s sake (and some truth as well): My good Brother Asa James always loves to quote Clint Eastwood as Dirty Harry, “A man’s got to know his limitations.” :-)
Friday, July 15, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
A kupuna reflection . . .
A Kupuna-Kahuna Quiet Time Reflection:
In the year of our Lord, 2011. I am an old man in this season, having seen better days physically. My time as a youth, and with youth seem to be over? I walk more slowly now, speaking more quietly to individual hearts on behalf of the Son. And truthfully, it is enough in this season. For, I have come to see that “the philanthropy of quiet ways, and the slow work of leavening others one by one with the Spirit of Christ,” [Henry Drummond] ultimately has more impact than all the material blessedness, public schemes & charities, and glitzy marketing & programs the “greater church” has to offer. For discipleship as Christ created and modeled it has always been a “one heart to one heart” experience, even in the midst of groups. Yes, I have come to realize that, for me personally, my greatest “calling” in life has been that of husband, father, grandfather and friend. This I can still do as an old man through the Grace and Strength of the One who makes me perfect in weakness.
In the year of our Lord, 2011. I am an old man in this season, having seen better days physically. My time as a youth, and with youth seem to be over? I walk more slowly now, speaking more quietly to individual hearts on behalf of the Son. And truthfully, it is enough in this season. For, I have come to see that “the philanthropy of quiet ways, and the slow work of leavening others one by one with the Spirit of Christ,” [Henry Drummond] ultimately has more impact than all the material blessedness, public schemes & charities, and glitzy marketing & programs the “greater church” has to offer. For discipleship as Christ created and modeled it has always been a “one heart to one heart” experience, even in the midst of groups. Yes, I have come to realize that, for me personally, my greatest “calling” in life has been that of husband, father, grandfather and friend. This I can still do as an old man through the Grace and Strength of the One who makes me perfect in weakness.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Kingdom Life As Christ Would Have Us Live It:
In every city throughout the world today, there is a city descending out of heaven from God. Each one of us is daily building up this city – or helping to keep it back.
In all seriousness I make this definite practical proposal: believe in your city. What else? In Jesus Christ. What about Him? That He wants to make your city better; that that is what He would be doing if He lived there. What else? Believe in yourself – that you, even you, can do some of the work which He would like done, and that unless you do it, it will remain undone. How are you to begin? As Christ did. First He looked at the city; then He wept over it; then He died for it.
Where are you to begin? Begin where you are. Make that one corner, room, house, office, as like heaven as you can. Begin? Begin with the paper on the walls, make that beautiful; with the air, keep it fresh; with the very drains, make them sweet. Abolish whatsoever makes a lie – in conversation, in social intercourse, in correspondence, in domestic life. This done, you have arranged for a heaven, but you do not yet have it. Heaven lies within here; in kindness, in humility, in unselfishness, in faith, in love, in service. To get these in, get Christ in. Teach all in the house about Christ – what He did, and what He said, and how He lived. Teach it not as a doctrine, but as a discovery, as your own discovery. Live your own discovery.
Then pass out into the city, your community. Do all to it that you have done at home.
[based on Finan readings from Celtic Daily Prayer]
In all seriousness I make this definite practical proposal: believe in your city. What else? In Jesus Christ. What about Him? That He wants to make your city better; that that is what He would be doing if He lived there. What else? Believe in yourself – that you, even you, can do some of the work which He would like done, and that unless you do it, it will remain undone. How are you to begin? As Christ did. First He looked at the city; then He wept over it; then He died for it.
Where are you to begin? Begin where you are. Make that one corner, room, house, office, as like heaven as you can. Begin? Begin with the paper on the walls, make that beautiful; with the air, keep it fresh; with the very drains, make them sweet. Abolish whatsoever makes a lie – in conversation, in social intercourse, in correspondence, in domestic life. This done, you have arranged for a heaven, but you do not yet have it. Heaven lies within here; in kindness, in humility, in unselfishness, in faith, in love, in service. To get these in, get Christ in. Teach all in the house about Christ – what He did, and what He said, and how He lived. Teach it not as a doctrine, but as a discovery, as your own discovery. Live your own discovery.
Then pass out into the city, your community. Do all to it that you have done at home.
[based on Finan readings from Celtic Daily Prayer]
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Kingdom Life – The Bicycle Wheel Metaphor
No doubt several people have pictured life with God as a bicycle wheel before, but in a recent quiet time the Spirit revealed a very detailed vision of such a metaphor, so I thought I would share it.
Also, no doubt some of this vision comes from my own personal experiences at a cyclist and triathlete, and also because the Tour de France bicycle race is currently happening. But, the God connection lies in this season of my life that is filled with study, meditation and missional discipleship.
So, picture a bicycle wheel, including tire and rim. At the center of the wheel is the hub, everything is connected to the hub assembly. Hubs are generally made up of three interrelated parts; axle, bearings and the hub housing, (get the trinitarian nature of the hub?) Nothing works without the being connected to the hub – God.
Next, emanating outward from the hub are the spokes. Spokes can be made of a variety of materials and come in various arrangements, sound like a little like all of us?? The spokes are connected to the hub, then run out to the rim assembly; rim (again various materials), and tire. The vision of the spokes given to me is one of various sized groups, smaller and more intimate near the hub, larger and less intimate (although always in relationship) as the spoke extends out to the rim and tire.
Now along these “spokes” (Kingdom speaking and in 3DM [www.weare3dm.com] terms) lie first “huddles”; small groups of leaders discipling one another. Beyond the huddles on the spokes are “missional communities”, larger groups where these leaders facilitate Kingdom Life with others, and where there is a shared “mission”, a caring connection with the world. These missional communities connect wherever and whenever they can with a variety of communities (note: these are not usually Christian communities, in fact, almost never are.) This is where “the rubber meets the road” so to speak! This is where disciples are “in the world, but not of it”, being Jesus, modeling Jesus, with Grace and sensitivity.
You might have already seen the “circle” connection of the tire and rim, but if not, notice how all the communities are connected around the outer circle. That represents the Body of Christ in the world, coming from a lot of different places, but connected to One Lord and One God . . . THE HUB!
I love this metaphor/picture, and it reminds me of the depth and interconnectedness of the Kingdom Life, following Jesus as He commanded, and as He leads through the Holy Spirit. As I often remind myself and others, this is “here and now” life, the “abundant life” Christ promised. It is partnering with God in “making all things new” now, beginning to live our eternal lives now. Yes, there is a lot of violence and destruction in our world, both natural and man-made, but we have a choice to be depressed and defeated by it, OR, to realize it’s all “birth pains” of the new creation, new heaven and earth which we are invited to participate with God in bringing about.
Find your place in this season, seek God’s guidance, and trust Him to do exceedingly more than you ever imagined with your life. Surrender and find that ultimate victory and freedom await you!
Only by Grace, pat
Also, no doubt some of this vision comes from my own personal experiences at a cyclist and triathlete, and also because the Tour de France bicycle race is currently happening. But, the God connection lies in this season of my life that is filled with study, meditation and missional discipleship.
So, picture a bicycle wheel, including tire and rim. At the center of the wheel is the hub, everything is connected to the hub assembly. Hubs are generally made up of three interrelated parts; axle, bearings and the hub housing, (get the trinitarian nature of the hub?) Nothing works without the being connected to the hub – God.
Next, emanating outward from the hub are the spokes. Spokes can be made of a variety of materials and come in various arrangements, sound like a little like all of us?? The spokes are connected to the hub, then run out to the rim assembly; rim (again various materials), and tire. The vision of the spokes given to me is one of various sized groups, smaller and more intimate near the hub, larger and less intimate (although always in relationship) as the spoke extends out to the rim and tire.
Now along these “spokes” (Kingdom speaking and in 3DM [www.weare3dm.com] terms) lie first “huddles”; small groups of leaders discipling one another. Beyond the huddles on the spokes are “missional communities”, larger groups where these leaders facilitate Kingdom Life with others, and where there is a shared “mission”, a caring connection with the world. These missional communities connect wherever and whenever they can with a variety of communities (note: these are not usually Christian communities, in fact, almost never are.) This is where “the rubber meets the road” so to speak! This is where disciples are “in the world, but not of it”, being Jesus, modeling Jesus, with Grace and sensitivity.
You might have already seen the “circle” connection of the tire and rim, but if not, notice how all the communities are connected around the outer circle. That represents the Body of Christ in the world, coming from a lot of different places, but connected to One Lord and One God . . . THE HUB!
I love this metaphor/picture, and it reminds me of the depth and interconnectedness of the Kingdom Life, following Jesus as He commanded, and as He leads through the Holy Spirit. As I often remind myself and others, this is “here and now” life, the “abundant life” Christ promised. It is partnering with God in “making all things new” now, beginning to live our eternal lives now. Yes, there is a lot of violence and destruction in our world, both natural and man-made, but we have a choice to be depressed and defeated by it, OR, to realize it’s all “birth pains” of the new creation, new heaven and earth which we are invited to participate with God in bringing about.
Find your place in this season, seek God’s guidance, and trust Him to do exceedingly more than you ever imagined with your life. Surrender and find that ultimate victory and freedom await you!
Only by Grace, pat
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Reflections from the Big Island
As I spend time here in Hilo with Patti, I have lots of opportunities for study and reflection. I am practicing my "up, in and out" led by good readings from 3DM (www.weare3dm.com). The "up" is easy here, especially in the solitude of Ainaola and it's beautiful countryside. The "in" is mostly with Patti now, via prayer and long walk/talks. The "out" is very diverse as I venture out and meet all kinds of people in and around Hilo; young restless ones, old seemingly content ones, and a whole host of others. Yet, I always am left with a sense that they are all seeking happiness which eludes them? Even our host family, they came here seeking fulfillment, but it is very clear that their hearts are restless. I continue to smile, make conversation when it presents itself, and always lift up prayers for those I see and engage. I am learning a very important lesson to "be", just be . . . in the moment, in His Presence. To be alert for sure, to seek His "still quiet voice" as His Spirit leads. I guess my greatest hope during this time is not so much knowing what God is doing from one day to the next, but can I bring this "attitude" back and keep it intact when I return to Sacramento?
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Books and Authors on Discipleship & Spiritual Formation
Some basic instruction on making good use of this list: Briefly, discipleship is the journey of following Jesus, of being an apprentice to Him. It is the “discipline” we engage in, in order to prepare (partner) in our own spiritual formation, our transformation into the image of Christ, taking on His character by the power of the Holy Spirit. So, as you seek to use the resources on this list, to find those that suit you in your current season of life, your place on the journey, some basic guidelines will be helpful.
The number codes (1-3) are my attempt to apply a general reading level or complexity to the books; 1 being the “easiest” to 3 being fairly “deep” stuff in my opinion.
While my short annotations may be helpful, I always recommend using amazon.com to review, read excerpts, etc. to help determine which books to choose, those that will be meaningful for your particular “bent”, reading level and personality (style preference.)
Also of great use are the websites for Renovare, Navigators and Intervarsity Press (IVP); all publishers and organizations who have wonderful resources for discipleship and spiritual formation. (links included at the end of this document.)
I have broken the list into two categories; discipleship and spiritual formation. They are certainly directly related, but discipleship is what we do, the formation is the Holy Spirit’s work. It’s good to understand how the Spirit works in us, transforming us into the image of Christ, esoteric sometimes, but good. These readings require time and reflection, a reliance on the Spirit to “speak” to our hearts.
This is simply my own personal effort, and as such, is certainly not a complete or exhaustive list, but merely at attempt at a “best of” in this area of Christian literature.
You will probably find books missing that you would have included, that is not a condemnation of any authors or books, just my choice to limit the size of the list.
You will also note an absence of “emergent church movement” literature and authors; McLaren, Pagitt, Kimball, Miller and others? I did this purposefully choosing what I felt were “timeless” or classic offerings, works that seem to be widely accepted across Christian thought and groups. That said, I have read and appreciated what they all have to offer as followers of Jesus.
Lastly, (and to avoid being too lengthy here), the point ultimately is to apply the wisdom and practices (disciplines) we discover, to our own lives. And, begin living the abundant life as apprentices to Jesus, today!
So, in no particular order (random, so as not to appear to be recommending one book or author over another) here are books and resources. Have fun researching (searching for treasure) as suggested above, and enjoy the “spiritual direction” that these folks offer:
Discipleship:
The Lost Art of Disciple Making, by Leroy Eims [2] – a good general resource for pastors, churches and lay persons. An overview that includes history. Don’t forget to visit amazon.com for reviews, etc.
Waking The Dead, by John Eldredge [1-2] – Eldredge is an engaging author that entertains while he teaches. Touches on discipleship, among other areas of the Christian life. Ransomed Heart is Eldredge’s website presence for those who are interested in more from him. Some people question Eldredge’s theology, but his passion cannot be mistaken.
Transforming Discipleship, by Greg Ogden [2] – Ogden has been doing discipleship after the model of Jesus for many years. This book, along with Discipleship Essentials, are excellent tools for anyone who wants to engage in lifelong discipleship and disciple making. Solid one-on-one or triad formational resource.
The Great Omission, by Dallas Willard [2-3] – Willard is thought by some to be the most influential Christian author of our time. This work is aimed at elucidating the loss of discipleship as the cornerstone of the church. Renovation of the Heart is another work to be considered. No less than Eugene Peterson, John Ortberg, Francis Chan, Bill Hull and many others consider Willard to be their spiritual mentor. Great stuff from this author, although often very challenging intellectually. (Took me three times before I got Divine Conspiracy, which is another title for those seeking the deep stuff of discipleship. I give it a definite #3 level code!)
The Kingdom Life, by various authors [2] – A wonderful collection by several really good authors on discipleship and spiritual formation. I hesitate to say this, but if you can read only one book, get this one. The reason I hesitate is that another book on doing discipleship (a “how to”) would be a good (necessary) companion to this one.
The Life You’ve Always Wanted, by John Ortberg [1-2] – Ortberg is a pastor (well, I guess most of these authors have been at one time or another?) who writes with humor and wit, while getting his message across. He might call his writing a “dumbed-down” version of Willard?! A personal friend and pastor to my boys, hope he doesn’t find out I said that! He has several books that are good; including If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat and The Me I Want To Be.
{Don’t forget, check out all these books at amazon.com to read excerpts and get a more detailed synopsis.}
Celebration of Discipline, by Richard Foster [2] – Many call Foster’s book the bellwether of the new discipleship movement (return to the first church). Great stuff on the spiritual disciplines (the practices of discipleship.) I consider this the first of a triad of great books on spiritual disciplines, and applying them (discipleship.)
Spirit of the Disciplines, by Dallas Willard [2] – You’ll see a lot of Willard in this list, and you’ll see him quoted in many other ones here. This book complements Celebration well, and even Willard will say that. Affirms discipleship as the practice of the spiritual disciplines and following Jesus.
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, by Donald Whitney [1-2] – Proven and practical “how to” book that I consider the third member of the triad here. While Whitney is a lesser known author, he does a wonderful job of taking the above two books and giving us direction in applying them to our lives.
Longing For God, by Gayle Beebe & Richard Foster [2] – I love this book for taking the ancient fathers and mothers offerings, giving us a sample of them, then helping us apply their experiences and teaching to our own lives in this time. This is somewhat of a compilation of earlier Renovare works; Devotional Classics and Spiritual Classics, both books I highly recommend in the spiritual formation category.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan [1] – Here is a truly passionate follower of Jesus who has taken the call to obedience very seriously. Chan appeals to a younger audience (he pastors my other son’s church, Cornerstone, in Simi Valley, but I’m not admitting any prejudice here.)
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, by Eugene Peterson [2] – The author of The Message version of the Bible offers his own look at discipleship based on the Psalms of Ascent, an ancient, poetic look at following God. While not technically a discipleship book, it may suit those who don’t want a “cookbook” type of offering?
Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren [1] - The bestseller by a pastor of a megachurch (who coincidentally understands that megachurches don’t make disciples). This is a good book for seekers and others who are new to Jesus and His church.
Complete Book of Discipleship by Bill Hull [2-3?] – Probably my personal favorite on discipleship (even though I really appreciate The Kingdom Life, in which he authors a section.) Just a flat out excellent work, comprehensive with very good recommended suggested readings (yes, an author who isn’t afraid to recommend other books.) If you are looking for a contemporary overview on discipleship and spiritual formation, with lots of practical advice and references, this is it!
Down to Earth Discipling, by Scott Morton [1] – Short, easy to read and practical. Not looking for lots of theology and complex thought, this fits the bill.
Lifestyle Discipleship, by Jim Peterson [1] – Another offering from a NavPress guy (Hull and Morton are too), that gives basic life application guidance to discipling others.
Apprentice With Jesus, by Gary Moon [1-3] – 1-3 he says??!! Well, I guess that’s because I believe you can benefit from this book no matter where you are on the journey that is discipleship (following Jesus.) This book offers a 30 day experience in applied discipleship. A great way to inculcate the habit of discipleship into our lives, and to find some things that just “tick” with our hearts in this area.
The Apprentice Series, by James Bryan Smith & Renovare [1-2] – Last but not least for sure, a series of books that most of us can read and digest. “The Apprentice Series is based on a simple structure for producing change that has four components. The first “element” is actually the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit that enlivens all our efforts to follow Christ—including the other three components of transformation.
The second area where change can happen is in transforming our narratives. Narratives are the stories we live by that give our life purpose and explanation. Often our narratives are at work in our lives without our knowing it. We have narratives about God, our self, others and so forth. Many of us have narratives about God that do not match the narratives that Jesus revealed. We cannot change our behavior until we change the narratives that guide us.
One way to change our narratives is to engage in soul-training exercises, which makes up the third component of transformation. Each chapter includes a practice that helps the reader open to the Holy Spirit and begin replacing false narratives with the true narratives of Jesus. The exercises are often simple and usually counter-cultural. For example, the first exercise of The Good and Beautiful God is sleep, because when we sleep we are relinquishing our perceived control of life and inviting God to be God.
The fourth and final component of transformation is community. We cannot change on our own, we need other people on the journey with us to encourage and challenge us. And while each book in the series [can] be read by an individual they also include reflection questions throughout each chapter as well as a group guide appendix that offers discussion questions for each chapter. In addition, on this website under the “Small Groups” tab you will see a “Leader Guide” which is another, more robust resource for nurturing community.
With this framework in mind, the topics of each book in the series flow in a natural progression. Book one, The Good and Beautiful God, looks at our competing narratives about God and tests them against the God Jesus revealed. As we come to know the God that Jesus knows, it is natural for us to fall more deeply in love with God.
As we fall more deeply in love with God and as we recognize God’s provision and love for us our lives start to look different. This is what the second book explores. The Good and Beautiful Life walks through the “Sermon on the Mount,” Matthew 5-7, taking seriously the teachings of Jesus as something his apprentices will be able to do. But how is it possible to be free from anger, lust, lying, vainglory and the like? It is possible as we grow in understanding where we are—in God’s wondrous kingdom—and who we are—people indwelt by Christ.
As our hearts are changed our lives begin to change and the ultimate expression of this change comes in our relationships with others. In the third book in the series, The Good and Beautiful Community, the outward expression of a Kingdom heart is the focus. Just as our perception of God and our self is transformed and healed, so too we begin to see other people as precious children of God.”
{once again, don’t forget to use amazon.com to check out the books}
Spiritual Formation:
Devotional Classics, by Smith & Foster from Renovare [2-3] – I suppose if Hull’s book is my favorite on discipleship, then this one from Renovare is my personal favorite on spiritual formation/spiritual development? I love the sampling of the “ancient fathers and mothers” from 300 AD to the 20th century pillars of the church. (My wife is using this book in three different Bible study groups!)
Spiritual Classics, by Griffith & Foster [2-3] – The companion book to the above, and another “sampler”. These books introduce us to some wonderful saints, and often you will find one that you are inclined to read further. The Imitation of Christ has become a staple at my quiet time corner since “discovering” it (Thomas a’ Kempis) in these books.
Renovation of the Heart, by Willard [2-3] – I include Willard’s book here because I honestly felt it was . . . “spiritual” . . . it was about the Holy Spirit? Besides, most reviews refer to it as a spiritual formation book. This is inspiring, if not a little “heady” stuff . . . typical Willard.
Sacred Rhythms, by Ruth Haley Barton [2] – Wonderful, mystical, beautiful . . . no wonder, a female author in the list, finally. Sorry ladies, if you are wont to read female authors, please contact me as I have some suggestions, it’s just that the most widely read and accepted books on discipleship and spiritual formation seem to be from male authors. Okay, here are some names that I have personally found inspiring over the years; Rebecca Manley-Pippert, Joyce Meyer, Joni Eareckson Tada, Madeleine L’Engle, Ruth Bell Graham, Anne LaMott, Annie Dillard, Anne Morrow Lindbergh and others.
Conformed To His Image, by Kenneth Boa [2] – A virtual college seminary course in spiritual formation, but not too difficult to read and understand, (unlike some seminary textbooks.)
Okay, that’s about it for my list of books. Yes, Karl Barth, Dietrich Bonheoffer, Martin Luther, J.I. Packer, A.W. Tozer and lots more are missing, I admit it. You want to read those guys, or T.F. Torrance, McGrath, and more, I suggest you enroll in a seminary. But, for most of us the list above will suffice.
Finally, I include the following links to those organizations/publishers I mentioned earlier above. They provide an abundance of resources besides books, and are good places to seek spiritual direction (if not from a personal “spiritual director”.) Always remember, Christ is our true teacher through the Holy Spirit.
http://www.renovare.us/
http://www.navpress.com/
http://www.ivpress.com/
http://www.ivpress.com/formatio/ (IVPress’ pages specifically for spiritual formation)
Only by Grace, Patrick Watters
The number codes (1-3) are my attempt to apply a general reading level or complexity to the books; 1 being the “easiest” to 3 being fairly “deep” stuff in my opinion.
While my short annotations may be helpful, I always recommend using amazon.com to review, read excerpts, etc. to help determine which books to choose, those that will be meaningful for your particular “bent”, reading level and personality (style preference.)
Also of great use are the websites for Renovare, Navigators and Intervarsity Press (IVP); all publishers and organizations who have wonderful resources for discipleship and spiritual formation. (links included at the end of this document.)
I have broken the list into two categories; discipleship and spiritual formation. They are certainly directly related, but discipleship is what we do, the formation is the Holy Spirit’s work. It’s good to understand how the Spirit works in us, transforming us into the image of Christ, esoteric sometimes, but good. These readings require time and reflection, a reliance on the Spirit to “speak” to our hearts.
This is simply my own personal effort, and as such, is certainly not a complete or exhaustive list, but merely at attempt at a “best of” in this area of Christian literature.
You will probably find books missing that you would have included, that is not a condemnation of any authors or books, just my choice to limit the size of the list.
You will also note an absence of “emergent church movement” literature and authors; McLaren, Pagitt, Kimball, Miller and others? I did this purposefully choosing what I felt were “timeless” or classic offerings, works that seem to be widely accepted across Christian thought and groups. That said, I have read and appreciated what they all have to offer as followers of Jesus.
Lastly, (and to avoid being too lengthy here), the point ultimately is to apply the wisdom and practices (disciplines) we discover, to our own lives. And, begin living the abundant life as apprentices to Jesus, today!
So, in no particular order (random, so as not to appear to be recommending one book or author over another) here are books and resources. Have fun researching (searching for treasure) as suggested above, and enjoy the “spiritual direction” that these folks offer:
Discipleship:
The Lost Art of Disciple Making, by Leroy Eims [2] – a good general resource for pastors, churches and lay persons. An overview that includes history. Don’t forget to visit amazon.com for reviews, etc.
Waking The Dead, by John Eldredge [1-2] – Eldredge is an engaging author that entertains while he teaches. Touches on discipleship, among other areas of the Christian life. Ransomed Heart is Eldredge’s website presence for those who are interested in more from him. Some people question Eldredge’s theology, but his passion cannot be mistaken.
Transforming Discipleship, by Greg Ogden [2] – Ogden has been doing discipleship after the model of Jesus for many years. This book, along with Discipleship Essentials, are excellent tools for anyone who wants to engage in lifelong discipleship and disciple making. Solid one-on-one or triad formational resource.
The Great Omission, by Dallas Willard [2-3] – Willard is thought by some to be the most influential Christian author of our time. This work is aimed at elucidating the loss of discipleship as the cornerstone of the church. Renovation of the Heart is another work to be considered. No less than Eugene Peterson, John Ortberg, Francis Chan, Bill Hull and many others consider Willard to be their spiritual mentor. Great stuff from this author, although often very challenging intellectually. (Took me three times before I got Divine Conspiracy, which is another title for those seeking the deep stuff of discipleship. I give it a definite #3 level code!)
The Kingdom Life, by various authors [2] – A wonderful collection by several really good authors on discipleship and spiritual formation. I hesitate to say this, but if you can read only one book, get this one. The reason I hesitate is that another book on doing discipleship (a “how to”) would be a good (necessary) companion to this one.
The Life You’ve Always Wanted, by John Ortberg [1-2] – Ortberg is a pastor (well, I guess most of these authors have been at one time or another?) who writes with humor and wit, while getting his message across. He might call his writing a “dumbed-down” version of Willard?! A personal friend and pastor to my boys, hope he doesn’t find out I said that! He has several books that are good; including If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat and The Me I Want To Be.
{Don’t forget, check out all these books at amazon.com to read excerpts and get a more detailed synopsis.}
Celebration of Discipline, by Richard Foster [2] – Many call Foster’s book the bellwether of the new discipleship movement (return to the first church). Great stuff on the spiritual disciplines (the practices of discipleship.) I consider this the first of a triad of great books on spiritual disciplines, and applying them (discipleship.)
Spirit of the Disciplines, by Dallas Willard [2] – You’ll see a lot of Willard in this list, and you’ll see him quoted in many other ones here. This book complements Celebration well, and even Willard will say that. Affirms discipleship as the practice of the spiritual disciplines and following Jesus.
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, by Donald Whitney [1-2] – Proven and practical “how to” book that I consider the third member of the triad here. While Whitney is a lesser known author, he does a wonderful job of taking the above two books and giving us direction in applying them to our lives.
Longing For God, by Gayle Beebe & Richard Foster [2] – I love this book for taking the ancient fathers and mothers offerings, giving us a sample of them, then helping us apply their experiences and teaching to our own lives in this time. This is somewhat of a compilation of earlier Renovare works; Devotional Classics and Spiritual Classics, both books I highly recommend in the spiritual formation category.
Crazy Love by Francis Chan [1] – Here is a truly passionate follower of Jesus who has taken the call to obedience very seriously. Chan appeals to a younger audience (he pastors my other son’s church, Cornerstone, in Simi Valley, but I’m not admitting any prejudice here.)
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, by Eugene Peterson [2] – The author of The Message version of the Bible offers his own look at discipleship based on the Psalms of Ascent, an ancient, poetic look at following God. While not technically a discipleship book, it may suit those who don’t want a “cookbook” type of offering?
Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren [1] - The bestseller by a pastor of a megachurch (who coincidentally understands that megachurches don’t make disciples). This is a good book for seekers and others who are new to Jesus and His church.
Complete Book of Discipleship by Bill Hull [2-3?] – Probably my personal favorite on discipleship (even though I really appreciate The Kingdom Life, in which he authors a section.) Just a flat out excellent work, comprehensive with very good recommended suggested readings (yes, an author who isn’t afraid to recommend other books.) If you are looking for a contemporary overview on discipleship and spiritual formation, with lots of practical advice and references, this is it!
Down to Earth Discipling, by Scott Morton [1] – Short, easy to read and practical. Not looking for lots of theology and complex thought, this fits the bill.
Lifestyle Discipleship, by Jim Peterson [1] – Another offering from a NavPress guy (Hull and Morton are too), that gives basic life application guidance to discipling others.
Apprentice With Jesus, by Gary Moon [1-3] – 1-3 he says??!! Well, I guess that’s because I believe you can benefit from this book no matter where you are on the journey that is discipleship (following Jesus.) This book offers a 30 day experience in applied discipleship. A great way to inculcate the habit of discipleship into our lives, and to find some things that just “tick” with our hearts in this area.
The Apprentice Series, by James Bryan Smith & Renovare [1-2] – Last but not least for sure, a series of books that most of us can read and digest. “The Apprentice Series is based on a simple structure for producing change that has four components. The first “element” is actually the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit that enlivens all our efforts to follow Christ—including the other three components of transformation.
The second area where change can happen is in transforming our narratives. Narratives are the stories we live by that give our life purpose and explanation. Often our narratives are at work in our lives without our knowing it. We have narratives about God, our self, others and so forth. Many of us have narratives about God that do not match the narratives that Jesus revealed. We cannot change our behavior until we change the narratives that guide us.
One way to change our narratives is to engage in soul-training exercises, which makes up the third component of transformation. Each chapter includes a practice that helps the reader open to the Holy Spirit and begin replacing false narratives with the true narratives of Jesus. The exercises are often simple and usually counter-cultural. For example, the first exercise of The Good and Beautiful God is sleep, because when we sleep we are relinquishing our perceived control of life and inviting God to be God.
The fourth and final component of transformation is community. We cannot change on our own, we need other people on the journey with us to encourage and challenge us. And while each book in the series [can] be read by an individual they also include reflection questions throughout each chapter as well as a group guide appendix that offers discussion questions for each chapter. In addition, on this website under the “Small Groups” tab you will see a “Leader Guide” which is another, more robust resource for nurturing community.
With this framework in mind, the topics of each book in the series flow in a natural progression. Book one, The Good and Beautiful God, looks at our competing narratives about God and tests them against the God Jesus revealed. As we come to know the God that Jesus knows, it is natural for us to fall more deeply in love with God.
As we fall more deeply in love with God and as we recognize God’s provision and love for us our lives start to look different. This is what the second book explores. The Good and Beautiful Life walks through the “Sermon on the Mount,” Matthew 5-7, taking seriously the teachings of Jesus as something his apprentices will be able to do. But how is it possible to be free from anger, lust, lying, vainglory and the like? It is possible as we grow in understanding where we are—in God’s wondrous kingdom—and who we are—people indwelt by Christ.
As our hearts are changed our lives begin to change and the ultimate expression of this change comes in our relationships with others. In the third book in the series, The Good and Beautiful Community, the outward expression of a Kingdom heart is the focus. Just as our perception of God and our self is transformed and healed, so too we begin to see other people as precious children of God.”
{once again, don’t forget to use amazon.com to check out the books}
Spiritual Formation:
Devotional Classics, by Smith & Foster from Renovare [2-3] – I suppose if Hull’s book is my favorite on discipleship, then this one from Renovare is my personal favorite on spiritual formation/spiritual development? I love the sampling of the “ancient fathers and mothers” from 300 AD to the 20th century pillars of the church. (My wife is using this book in three different Bible study groups!)
Spiritual Classics, by Griffith & Foster [2-3] – The companion book to the above, and another “sampler”. These books introduce us to some wonderful saints, and often you will find one that you are inclined to read further. The Imitation of Christ has become a staple at my quiet time corner since “discovering” it (Thomas a’ Kempis) in these books.
Renovation of the Heart, by Willard [2-3] – I include Willard’s book here because I honestly felt it was . . . “spiritual” . . . it was about the Holy Spirit? Besides, most reviews refer to it as a spiritual formation book. This is inspiring, if not a little “heady” stuff . . . typical Willard.
Sacred Rhythms, by Ruth Haley Barton [2] – Wonderful, mystical, beautiful . . . no wonder, a female author in the list, finally. Sorry ladies, if you are wont to read female authors, please contact me as I have some suggestions, it’s just that the most widely read and accepted books on discipleship and spiritual formation seem to be from male authors. Okay, here are some names that I have personally found inspiring over the years; Rebecca Manley-Pippert, Joyce Meyer, Joni Eareckson Tada, Madeleine L’Engle, Ruth Bell Graham, Anne LaMott, Annie Dillard, Anne Morrow Lindbergh and others.
Conformed To His Image, by Kenneth Boa [2] – A virtual college seminary course in spiritual formation, but not too difficult to read and understand, (unlike some seminary textbooks.)
Okay, that’s about it for my list of books. Yes, Karl Barth, Dietrich Bonheoffer, Martin Luther, J.I. Packer, A.W. Tozer and lots more are missing, I admit it. You want to read those guys, or T.F. Torrance, McGrath, and more, I suggest you enroll in a seminary. But, for most of us the list above will suffice.
Finally, I include the following links to those organizations/publishers I mentioned earlier above. They provide an abundance of resources besides books, and are good places to seek spiritual direction (if not from a personal “spiritual director”.) Always remember, Christ is our true teacher through the Holy Spirit.
http://www.renovare.us/
http://www.navpress.com/
http://www.ivpress.com/
http://www.ivpress.com/formatio/ (IVPress’ pages specifically for spiritual formation)
Only by Grace, Patrick Watters
Monday, June 27, 2011
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