Join Dr. Horton, an insightful author exploring the 'spiritual but not religious' movement, as he reflects on the spirituality trends of the 90s. He navigates the clash between Reformed faith and cultic movements, advocating for a return to biblical principles. The hosts dissect true spirituality through Matthew 25, emphasizing service over self-interest. They also tackle the importance of Bible study and communal worship, offering guidance for those grappling with cynicism in their faith journey.
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Quick takeaways
True spirituality is defined by faith centered on Scripture and the person of Jesus Christ, not on personal rules or experiences.
Historical philosophies like Gnosticism distort spirituality by promoting escape from the material world rather than engaging with God’s creation.
Deep dives
True Spirituality and Its Misconceptions
Spirituality in contemporary society is often equated with personal practices and the adherence to specific rules or regulations. This definition fosters a self-centered approach, distancing the concept from its biblical origins. True spirituality, as understood through the Reformation, emphasizes faith centered on Scripture and the person of Jesus Christ, rather than a checklist of behaviors. The idea that spirituality can simply be defined by compliance with personal rules undercuts the essence of a transformative faith.
Influences of Gnosticism and Platonism
Historical philosophies, particularly Gnosticism and Platonism, heavily influence modern notions of spirituality, promoting a dichotomy between the spiritual and the material world. Gnostic views, which suggest that the physical realm is corrupt, inform a spiritual outlook that seeks to escape rather than engage with reality. This perspective is counterproductive to understanding true spirituality as defined by the Reformation, which sees value in the material world as an expression of God's creation. True spirituality recognizes that the body, intellect, and cultural involvement are integral to a holistic faith.
Sacraments and Spiritual Growth
The sacraments, particularly baptism and communion, play a critical role in spiritual growth, yet are often overlooked in discussions of spirituality. In Scripture, these practices are central to the Christian life, as Jesus instructed believers to observe them as means of grace. The contemporary focus tends to neglect these elements, favoring personal experiences instead, which diminishes their importance in fostering a communal and biblically grounded faith. Reclaiming the sacraments could revitalize spiritual understanding and practice, aligning it more closely with biblical teachings.
The Impact of Legalism on Spirituality
Legalism, characterized by strict adherence to rules as a means of achieving spiritual status, undermines authentic faith by imposing burdens that lead believers to rely on their own works. The Reformation emphasizes freedom from such constraints through the gospel, which provides a context for living a life of gratitude rather than fear. This perspective challenges the notion that extra-biblical laws enhance one’s spirituality; instead, it suggests that true righteousness stems from genuine love and relationship with God. Engaging with the Scriptures and focusing on Christ's finished work allows believers to experience true spiritual freedom.
So what does it mean to be spiritual? On this episode of White Horse in our classic hosts, Michael Horton, Kim Riddlebarger, and Rod Rosenbladt, discuss true spirituality showing that the Reformation directs us back to scripture where faith and practice are centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ.