Discipleship/Spiritual Formation
Disciple comes from the Koine Greek word μαθητής (transliterated as mathétés), which means apprentice or follower. The calling and making of disciples was a key aspect of Jesus’ earthly ministry (Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; John 1:35-39). Jesus also commanded his apostles to make disciples of all nations under his ultimate Lordship (Matthew 28:16–20; Mark 16:14–18, Luke 24:44–49, Acts 1:4–8, and John 20:19–23).
Discipleship is the study and practice of following Jesus as his apprentice. The end of discipleship is Christlikeness (Romans 8:29, 2 Corinthians 3:18 and 1 John 3:2). The term Spiritual Formation puts discipleship within the context of God’s activity in forming whole persons and communities.
Contents
Recommended Reading
Boa, Kenneth. Conformed to His Image: Biblical and Practical Approaches to Spiritual Formation. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2001.
Willard, Dallas. Renovation of the Heart: Putting On the Character of Christ. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2012.
Resources for Further Study
Wilhoit, James C. Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2008.
Johnson, Keith K. Theology as Discipleship. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2015. Willard, Dallas. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God. San Francisco: Harper, 1998.
Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline, Special Anniversary Edition: The Path to Spiritual Growth. San Francisco: HarperOne, 2018.
