Formed: Sanctification - Jon Tyson

Celebration of Discipline explores the central spiritual practices of the Christian faith, dividing them into three categories: inward disciplines (meditation, prayer, fasting, and study), outward disciplines (simplicity, solitude, submission, and service), and corporate disciplines (confession, worship, guidance, and celebration). Foster argues that these disciplines are essential for spiritual growth and a balanced spiritual life. He provides practical insights and examples on how these disciplines can be integrated into daily life to bring about personal transformation and a deeper connection with God and others.

Søren Kierkegaard's "The Purity of Heart is to Will One Thing" delves into the complexities of faith and the human condition. Kierkegaard emphasizes the importance of single-mindedness in one's devotion to God, arguing against divided loyalties and the pursuit of worldly desires. The book explores the concept of a 'fractured will,' where individuals are torn between their commitment to God and their pursuit of earthly gains. Kierkegaard challenges readers to examine their motivations and to strive for a pure, undivided devotion to God. His work remains influential in theological and philosophical circles.

Ignatius of Loyola's "Spiritual Exercises" is a classic text on spiritual formation and discernment. It guides individuals through a process of reflection and prayer to deepen their relationship with God. The Exercises emphasize the importance of self-awareness, detachment from worldly desires, and a focus on God's will. They are widely used by individuals and groups seeking spiritual growth and guidance. The Exercises have had a profound impact on the Catholic Church and beyond.

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence[2][4][5].

This book, first published in 1989, outlines seven habits that are designed to help individuals become more effective in their personal and professional lives. The habits are grouped into three categories: Private Victory (habits 1-3), Public Victory (habits 4-6), and Renewal (habit 7). The habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand and then to be understood, synergizing, and sharpening the saw. Covey emphasizes the importance of personal integrity, effective time management, empathetic communication, and continuous self-improvement[2][5][4].

John Calvin's 'Institutes of the Christian Religion' is a comprehensive systematic theology that profoundly shaped Protestant thought. It systematically presents Calvin's understanding of Christian doctrine, covering topics such as God's sovereignty, salvation by grace through faith, and the sacraments. The Institutes are known for their clarity, precision, and profound insights into the nature of God and humanity's relationship with Him. Calvin's emphasis on the authority of Scripture and the importance of living a life of faith has had a lasting impact on Christian theology and practice. The work remains a significant resource for theological study and reflection.

In this book, Timothy Keller tackles various doubts and objections to Christian faith, such as the existence of suffering, the exclusivity of Christianity, and the role of science. He uses literature, philosophy, real-life conversations, and reasoning to explain how faith in a Christian God is a soundly rational belief. The book is divided into two sections: 'The Leap of Doubt,' which addresses common objections, and 'The Reasons for Faith,' which presents arguments for Christian belief.

In 'Mere Christianity', C.S. Lewis argues for the existence of God and defends Christian theology. The book is divided into four parts: the first argues for the existence of God based on the 'law of human nature'; the second defends Christian theology, including the 'Liar, lunatic, or Lord' trilemma regarding Jesus Christ; the third explores Christian ethics, including the cardinal and theological virtues; and the fourth discusses the Christian conception of God, particularly the Holy Trinity. Lewis also addresses topics such as free will, morality, sexual ethics, and the institution of marriage. The book is known for its clear and logical presentation of Christian apologetics and has been praised for its straightforward and humorous writing style[1][2][4].

The book is divided into two parts. The first part recounts Frankl's harrowing experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz, between 1942 and 1945. He describes the inhumane conditions and the psychological and emotional struggles of the prisoners. The second part introduces Frankl's theory of logotherapy, which posits that the primary human drive is the search for meaning, rather than pleasure. Frankl argues that meaning can be found through three main avenues: work (doing something significant), love (caring for another), and suffering (finding meaning in one's own suffering). The book emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, even in the most adverse conditions, as a key factor in survival and personal growth.

In 'The Divine Conspiracy', Dallas Willard delves into the true meaning of Christian discipleship by examining Jesus' teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount. The book challenges contemporary Christian practices and encourages a deeper, more authentic faith. Willard argues for the relevance of God in every aspect of life, presenting a vision of discipleship that involves daily interaction with God and a transformation of one's life to become more like Jesus. The book is divided into sections that cover the kingdom of the heavens, the discourse on the hill, discipleship, and eschatology, providing a thorough and practical guide to living a Christ-centered life[1][2][5].