The most recent issue of the Journal of Spiritual Formation & Soul Care carried an article I wrote on the relationship between spiritual formation and mission.

I wrote this article with two groups in mind:Ìý 1) Those who are so task-oriented that they underemphasize the foundational role of spiritual life for the mission God has called them to do; 2) Those who are so focused on the inner life that they underemphasize the very positive role that involvement in ministry and mission has upon the spiritual life.

Here is an outline of the main points.Ìý You’ll have to read the article itself for supporting Scripture, arguments, and explanation:[1]

The Process of Spiritual Formation Supports Mission

1.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because God’s empowerment through his Spirit is critical not only for a holy life but also for the mission he has given each of us.

2.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because meditating on the Scriptures and the gospel message (which is so central to spiritual formation) is foundational for mission.

3.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because one’s perspective on the nature of the mission is clarified as one grows in Christlikeness.

4.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because the person on a mission is upheld in his work as he experiences ongoing transformation.Ìý Indeed, his ministry must be an overflow of his life in Christ.

5.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because such qualities as love, boldness, and endurance are cultivated as one is spiritually formed.

6.ÌýÌýÌýÌý The process of spiritual formation supports mission because the power of example is so significant for doing mission.

Involvement in Mission Supports Spiritual Formation

1.ÌýÌýÌýÌý Involvement in mission supports spiritual formation because mission exposes our weakness and causes us to more humbly depend upon God and his power.

2.ÌýÌýÌýÌý Involvement in mission supports spiritual formation because mission regularly leads to hardship or suffering, and God works in our lives in the crucible of suffering.