The Journey Awaits

This first week will discuss the definition of spiritual formation and its importance in the lives of believers. Spend some time discussing this definition, its relevance to the life of a Christian, and sharing definitions or examples from one or two of the given resources.

Formation is a common concept. We all participate in formation in one form or another every day. This is the creation, arrangement, or organization of something, from writing a song or research paper to organizing a night out with friends. So what does spiritual formation mean?

We were created by God in his image, and through baptism, the Holy Spirit begins to dwell inside of us. Therefore, we are spiritual beings. We have a physical aspect, for sure—we all havebodies, and our bodies are important. In fact, our bodies are very important to our spiritual formation. But it's our spirits that will live forever. (Reichella, 2013, 5) We are spiritual beings, filled and formed by the Spirit if we allow him in. This is Spiritual Formation. It is the creation, arrangement, or organization of Christlikeness in our lives.

Richealla Parham is the writer of A Spiritual Formation Primer. She defines Christian spiritual formation as “The process in which believers cooperate with God and one another so that their souls are nourished, and their characters are transformed into Christlikeness.” (Reichella, 2013, 6) She points out that the key to spiritual formation is to become Christlike. Another scholar and author of spiritual formation, John Mark Comer, explains spiritual formation is, “The process of being formed into a person of self-giving love through deepening surrender to and union with the Trinity." (Comer, 2024, 80)

This process of transformation begins at birth. There are many ways to be transformed. Spiritual formation is about growing closer to Christ and becoming more like him in every way. Everything we come into contact with transforms us in some way, positively or negatively. This can be our parents, friends, music, movies, or any other area of life that influences us. This is an earthly formation and is most often negative.

On the other hand, heavenly transformation, positive transformation comes from the Holy Spirit. God intends for our formation to come through the Holy Spirit.

Read the following scripture together and look for this transformation of the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 3:18                            Romans 12:2                            1 Timothy 4:7-8

Galatians 4:19                           Colossians 3:10                        James 1:22

1. When you became a Christian, what did you think came after baptism?
2. How does this purpose line up with the definition of spiritual formation?
3. Looking at how you are currently walking with Christ, are there any mindsets or behaviors that need to be altered?

Get together in groups of two or three and discuss: Do you recognize any areas of your life where you are being transformed? Do you see transformation in others?

If time permits, allow students to share the outcome of their discussion.

Set aside some time this week to process this evening’s discussion. Explore the Bible to reveal more teaching on spiritual formation.