Spiritual Formation Research Paper

The concept of spiritual formation has been an issue of discussion for centuries. Theologians, clergy, and lay-people have sought to understand the process and procedure of a person being transformed. Although it may be difficult to articulate how an individual undergoes spiritual formation or the disciplines that will lead to spiritual formation, still individuals throughout church history has sought to discover spiritual formation. Albeit, the term spiritual formation is a relatively new term, the concept is as old as the church itself. Regardless of what term an individual use, the important factor is the development of a person’s spiritual disposition. This paper will seek to explore the theological component of spiritual formation …show more content…
Dr. Wilson (2016) argues that spiritual formation is about “obedience, conformity to Christ, being an apprentice of Jesus Christ, and action of the Word and Spirit.” The basis of Dr. Wilson’s argument is that these component assist in the formation of an individual’s spiritual growth. Scorgie (2011) contends, “Christian spirituality is ultimately about being attentive to the Holy Spirit’s voice, open to his transforming impulses, and empowered by his indwelling presence” (p. 27). In other words, a life that is being formed spiritually will be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit, in order to be renewed and invigorated through Christ living in him. This formation is a process that will endure throughout a person’s life, as they continually yield to the work of the Holy …show more content…
A key question that should be answered is, “What is the goal of the spiritual development plan?” In order to develop a healthy plan, the person’s motive must be pure. The goal should not to be a better person or for any self-piety; rather, it should be done to seek God alone. Robert Mulholland, Jr. states that spiritual formation is “the process of growth from a false identity as a pervasively self-referenced being to the true identity of a pervasively God-referenced being” (p. 221). The basis for Mulholland’s statement is that spiritual formation moves a person’s viewpoint away from themselves and fixed upon God. In addition, Mulholland believes the key step in seeing true transformation is to “love God for himself alone” (p. 220). The purpose of the spiritual development plan should seek to grow our love for God. Anything else must be considered a complete