Spiritual Formation as If the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ Through Community - Paperback

by James C. Wilhoit (Author), Dallas Willard (Foreword by)

2022 Martin Institute/Dallas Willard Center Book Award Finalist

Most books on spiritual formation focus on the individual. But spiritual formation is at the heart of the church's whole purpose for existence. It must be a central task for the church to carry out Christ's mission in the world. This book offers an introduction to spiritual formation set squarely in the local church. The first edition has been well received and widely used as a textbook. The second edition has been updated throughout, incorporates findings from positive psychology, and reflects an Augustinian formation perspective. Foreword by Dallas Willard.

Back Jacket

James Wilhoit draws on historical ecumenical practices and the Bible to offer a spiritual formation primer that emphasizes the role of the Christian community. The second edition has been revised and updated throughout.

"Always a creative practitioner of spiritual formation, Wilhoit now gives us a nuanced reasoning for why and how it works and a practical approach to accomplish it in the church."
--Jan Johnson, president, Dallas Willard Ministries

"Wilhoit beckons the church to focus its attention on the grace-filled mission of forming disciples or apprentices of Jesus and letting other things flow out of this fundamental orientation. This insight is wise and prudent, and it directly addresses the spiritual consumerism that has infected so many churches. I see Dallas Willard nodding his head in agreement! Wilhoit's book will profit pastors as they seek to follow Jesus's great commission and every precious person who longs to be more deeply formed into the image of Jesus."
--Chris Hall, president, Renovaré

"Spiritual formation is the task of the church. Wilhoit clearly explains and develops this foundational principle in this book. I have used the first edition in different settings, and I'm thrilled for the excellent improvement in this second edition. I will definitely use this book in my teaching ministry and recommend it to others!"
--Octavio Esqueda, Talbot School of Theology

"Wilhoit reminds us afresh that God's strategic purpose for the church rides on a robust Christian Spiritual Formation (CSF) process predicated on Scripture. This process is hardly a solo endeavor but rather one anchored in the richness of community within an active and God-glorifying church context. Loaded with practical applications, this second edition highlights how the church is to take its rightful place as the incubator of CSF."
--Diane J. Chandler, author of Christian Spiritual Formation: An Integrated Approach to Personal and Relational Wholeness

"Wilhoit's passion for individuals to live a life of authenticity is evident in this book. Because of his faithfulness to a spirit of excellence, he has written a resourceful book, and consequently, the world will be a much better place for all!"
--Barbara L. Peacock, founder, Barbara L. Peacock Ministries; author of Soul Care in African American Practice