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A Reformed Approach to Spiritual Formation with Matthew Bingham

Mar 31, 2025

In this conversation, Matthew Bingham, an Associate Professor of Church History at Phoenix Seminary and author of "A Heart Aflame for God," argues that the Reformed tradition offers a rich approach to spiritual formation often overlooked for its cerebral reputation. He critiques the prevailing notion that emotional or experiential aspects of faith are superior and advocates for a biblically grounded practice. They explore essential spiritual disciplines, the significance of Scripture, and the need for a balanced model that includes both intellectual and experiential dimensions of discipleship.

01:13:09

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Episode guests

Matthew Bingham

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Quick takeaways

The podcast emphasizes the importance of consistent engagement with Scripture to foster spiritual growth and effective communication of faith.

A structured Reformed approach to spiritual formation is advocated, critiquing eclectic methods that lack grounding in biblical teachings.

The discussion of the 'Reformation Triangle' illustrates how interconnected practices of Scripture intake, meditation, and prayer are essential for spiritual formation.

Deep dives

Promoting Spiritual Growth Through the Word

One of the key themes discussed is the promotion of spiritual growth through consistent engagement with the Word of God. The episode emphasizes a particular edition of the ESV New Testament, designed to aid individuals in deepening their understanding of Scripture while sharing the gospel with others. The reading plan contained within this edition serves as a practical guide for Christians aiming to immerse themselves in biblical teachings. This focus on Scripture not only nurtures personal faith but also equips believers to communicate their beliefs effectively to family and friends.

Intro

3min

Reformed Theology and Spiritual Formation

14min

Exploring the Apprenticeship Model in Spiritual Formation

2min

Exploring Spiritual Practices and Growth

7min

The Value of Theological Education in Pastoral Ministry

3min

Finding God Beyond Tradition

7min

Navigating Faith and Spiritual Formation

36min

It is often believed, by friends and critics alike, that the Reformed tradition, though perhaps good on formal doctrine, is impoverished when it comes to spiritual formation. The charge is that the Reformed approach to piety is all about head knowledge, about learning things as brains on sticks. Other Christians may be less critical but simply assume that there is no right or wrong way to do spiritual formation. This often leads evangelical to adopt an eclectic approach to personal growth in Christ. Many Christians in conservative Protestant churches end up adopting Catholic and Orthodox approaches as being more fulsome and effective. But what if there is a Reformed approach to spiritual formation that is rich, deep, historic, and more biblical than the alternatives? That’s what Kevin explores with Matthew Bingham (associate professor of church history at Phoenix Seminary) as they dig into Matthew’s fantastic new book A Heart Aflame for God: A Reformed Approach to Spiritual Formation (Crossway).

Chapters:

0:00 Sponsors & Intro

3:27 Tell Us About Yourself

8:16 Spiritual Formation

14:18 A Heart Aflame for God

21:15 A Reformed Approach to Spiritual Formation

26:53 Sponsor Break

29:44 Biblical Centrality

40:40 The Reformed Triangle of Spiritual Formation

47:24 Quick Takes

1:06:41 Final Thoughts

1:12:14 Until Next Time…