“But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You are our potter; and we all are the work of Your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)
“My little children, for whom I am again in [the pains of] labor until Christ is [completely] formed within you.” (Galations 4:19, AMP)
“My little children, again I feel the pain of childbirth for you until ·you truly become like Christ [ Christ is formed in you].” (Galatians 4:19, EXB)
Five Important Factors that Led to the Modern-Day Spiritual Formation Movement:
A Backlash Against the Church Growth Movement
Reaction to Pre-Millennialism
The Sidelining of Discipleship
The Repudiation of Secularism
The Discovery of Contemplative Traditions
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Summary:
Initiatives like the Christian spiritual formation movement don't emerge out of nowhere; they have a backstory. The five factors discussed above provide a framework for understanding why the spiritual formation movement became not only significant but essential to the life and practice of Christian faith and community. By addressing the need for deep, personal transformation in the midst of shifting theological and cultural landscapes, the movement has become a vital part of the ongoing journey of spiritual growth.
I’ve listed a few of the notable reasons behind the rise of the Christian spiritual formation movement. Here are three questions that could lead to a good conversation.
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