How is spiritual formation accomplished?
Bong Baylon
Last Update 2 months ago
The following five points help us understand our part in the spiritual formation process. The first three points are Willard’s model of VIM: Vision, Intention and Means.
1. Vision - To change we must have a vision of what life with Christ can be. Christian spiritual formation is not a program or a goal to reach; it is the lifelong process of being increasingly transformed into the image of Christ for the sake of the world (2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Corinthians 11:1). The key is to constantly place the vision before us. Intimacy and union with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is the goal. We want to keep before us the incredible richness of God, his kingdom and life with him. Do you have the vision to see what is possible in Christ through the Holy Spirit?
2. Intention - To change we must intend to do so. The invitation is to intentionally enter into the process of being formed by the Spirit into the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:28-29; Philippians 4:9). We cultivate the desire for a deeper relationship with God and make a conscious choice to pursue intimacy with him (John 15:1-17). We choose to trust and obey by placing our confidence in Jesus for everything and by being his constant students precisely because we have confidence in him. Do you have the intention to be transformed into the image of Christ?
3. Means - To change we must engage in the various grace-filled means of transformation or means of grace that God has provided. By intentionally engaging with the means of grace, we create space for God the Spirit to enter into these events and practices to do the work of transformation in us that we cannot do for ourselves. God is inviting us into the work that he is already doing (Philippians 1:6 and 2:12-13). Are you intentionally engaging in the means of grace so God can transform you?
4. Four means of transformation (or means of grace):
- Spirit of God
- Spiritual disciplines and sacraments
- Spiritual direction, companionship, and/or counseling
- Sovereignty of God
What specific means of grace are most meaningful to you?
5. Practice: Taking to Heart Colossians 3:1-17
Colossians 3:1-17 is a foundational passage about transformation. Let the ideas from this passage settles within you as great wisdom (vision), something you want to (intention) and invite God to let these ideas be enacted in your life (means).