Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community

"A refreshing blend of theological acumen, educational expertise, and pastoral sensitivity.... Wilhoit's writing is crisp, his arguments are clear, and his insights are profound.... [This book] deserves to be widely read, discussed, and appropriated into the life of the church."--Barry D. Jones, Journal of Spiritual Formation & Soul Care
Spiritual formation is undoubtedly a timely and popular topic in our materialistic culture. Plenty of high-quality books have been published, including the works of Richard Foster and Dallas Willard. Yet most of these resources focus on the individual. James Wilhoit leads readers in a new direction by focusing on the impact that Christian community can have on spiritual development in Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered. Also unique to this treatment is its historical and ecumenical approach. Perhaps the most important metaphor throughout the text is that of a journey. Spiritual progress is not a destination;instead, it is a continuous process. Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered offers an introduction to spiritual formation set squarely in the local church. As such it is appropriate for professors and students (both undergraduate and graduate) but it is also helpful for church leaders and spirituality readers. Features that enhance this work include its brief chapters, sidebar content, and for further reading annotations.