Spiritual Formation: An Invitation to Drawing Near Bonus Episode: The Nature of Contemplation
17 snips
Apr 26, 2024 In this enlightening discussion, Belinda Drummond, an interviewer and conference organizer, engages with Kyle Strobel on the intricacies of contemplation. They delve into how contemplation is essential for pastoral work, encouraging a shift from performance to genuine faith. Kyle highlights the historical significance of contemplation, its roots in scripture, and differentiates it from contemplative prayer. The conversation also addresses the impact of Enlightenment thinking on spirituality and the vital role contemplation plays in effective soul care.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Contemplation Orients Us Toward Christ
- Contemplation orders the soul toward the face of Christ as the ultimate end rather than merely an intellectual exercise.
- The Reformed tradition treats contemplation as fundamental because faith's perfection is seeing God face to face.
Practice Both Disposition And Set-Apart Time
- Practice contemplation both as an everyday disposition and as set aside times of focused attention.
- Cultivate a heart ordered to God in daily tasks and also reserve focused moments to fix mind and heart on Christ.
Why Evangelicals Avoid The Term
- Evangelicals often shelve 'contemplation' because the term is absent from scripture and associated with groups they distrust.
- Yet Scripture commands setting minds on things above, so clarifying the term recovers a biblical practice.
