Understanding of Spiritual Disciplines

The phrase “ascetical theology” may sound strange to modern ears, but it originates from the Greek word askesis, which refers to the kind of discipline or exercise that an athlete might practice in preparation for a competition, or that a soldier might practice in preparation for the dangers and difficulties of warfare. Beginning with the New Testament, these images have been used symbolically to describe the life of the Christian. The spiritual disciplines are specific practices through which a believer grows in his or her life in Christ. These practices develop into habits, which in turn develop into character traits. The disciplines can be engaged most effectively through the guidance found through Spiritual Direction and by developing a Rule of Life.

There are a variety of lists of spiritual disciplines. One of the oldest—the three Lenten disciplines of fasting, alms-giving, and prayer—is taken directly from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6. (Other lists can be found in the books listed below.)

There are many forms of abstinence beyond fasting from food that can be spiritually beneficial when used wisely: times of silence or solitude, giving up particular pleasures (food, drink, various forms of entertainment, sexual activity, use of electronic devices, etc.), acts of submission to authority, practices of humility, secrecy about one’s spiritual practices. These make space in our life for God to fill. There are also many acts one can undertake out of love for neighbor in addition to alms-giving: developing spiritually beneficial relationships with an individual or small group, and works of service such as the “Corporal Works of Mercy” based on Jesus’ parable of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25. Still other spiritual disciplines are a direct engagement with God himself, or a way of rejoicing in his good gifts: worship and praise, holy feasting and celebration, and the many various Tools for Prayer and Scripture Reading.

Resources

Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, Donald S. Whitney

Ascetical Theology

a. Prayer life and spirituality of minister b. Understanding of Spiritual Disciplines c. Spiritual Direction d. Rule of Life e. Daily Office f. Monasticism & its role in the development of our liturgy g. Missional applications of ascetical theology h. Monasticism and mission i. Mystical & Contemplative Spirituality j. Tools for Prayer and Scripture Reading k. Vocation l. Discernment m. Gifts & Fruit of the Spirit n. Stewardship

Understanding of Spiritual Disciplines

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