35. Realism About Character Transformation (2010)

May 12, 2025

Dallas Willard, a Christian philosopher renowned for his insights on spiritual formation, delves into the complexities of character transformation. He discusses the VIM structure—Vision, Intention, and Means—as essential to spiritual growth. Willard emphasizes the critical role of self-awareness, intentional actions, and grace in this journey, highlighting the significance of community and vulnerability. He advocates for a transformative approach rooted in God's love and commandments, promoting a holistic integration of faith with everyday life.

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ANECDOTE

Christians Nursing During Plagues

Early Christians stayed and cared for the sick during plagues while others fled.
This demonstrated profound Christian love and aided the church's growth.

INSIGHT

Early Childhood Shapes Character

Character is shaped by early childhood decisions made out of fear.
Many adults still handle life using childish coping strategies formed in those years.

INSIGHT

Spirit as Executive Center

The spirit or will is the executive center initiating actions.
When dead, it turns inward, causing self-centeredness and brokenness.

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Realism about Character Transformation

– ‘Spiritual Formation’ and the ‘VIM’ Structure: Vision/Intention/Means.
Session 3 of this 4-part series is a high-level overview of how Christian character
formation works. Much of this material can be found in Dallas’s book, Renovation of the
Heart. This includes a study of how the human person is put together and a review of
the VIM strategy for growth.
Download the diagrams and definitions used in this session here:
https://dwillard.s3.amazonaws.com/Kern-Character-Conference-3.pdf
For Further Study:
1. Renovation of the Heart, by Dallas Willard.
2. “How Do We Assess Spiritual Growth?” – Willard, Leadership magazine, 2010.
3. “Measuring Matters of the Heart: Spiritual Formation in the Age of Accountability" –
Willard, International Forum on Christian Higher Education, 2006.

Visit https://DWillard.org for a wide variety of resources and opportunities that can serve as a means to help you “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Dallas Willard Ministries exists to proclaim, teach and manifest the love, truth and transforming power of Christ and the Kingdom of God. We invite you to partner with us by praying for our ministry team, praying for the students in the School of Kingdom Living, sharing your talents as a volunteer, or contributing financial gifts. Visit https://dwillard.org/donate if you’d like to help us increase the availability of Dallas’s teaching to help people become more like Jesus.

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The contents of this recording are © Willard Family Trust. Used by permission. For permission to reproduce any of this content, please contact Dallas Willard Publicatio...