Kyle Strobel

Joining the discussion is Kyle Strobel, a leading figure in spiritual formation and an associate professor at Biola University. He delves into the essence of spiritual formation and its divergence from traditional discipleship. Kyle shares his unique journey through theology, emphasizing the need for experiential learning in faith. He critiques the trend of reducing spiritual practices to self-help, advocating for a robust communal approach. Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding our attachment to God through family dynamics.

Dr. Kyle Strobel, a professor of spiritual theology at Talbot Seminary, challenges the self-help approach to spirituality. He emphasizes the importance of genuine encounters with Christ over mere discipline, revealing how hidden dynamics like guilt and self-reliance sabotage spiritual growth. By sharing personal stories, Strobel illustrates how honesty with emotions fosters transformation. He stresses the dangers of guilt-driven church culture and calls for a focus on humility, authentic friendships, and God’s presence in everyday life.

Kyle Strobel, an Associate Professor of Spiritual Theology and author, discusses the renewal of the church through personal transformation. He emphasizes that spiritual growth isn’t about mere discipline but about genuine dependence on God’s grace. The conversation tackles misconceptions of spiritual practices, advocating for a balance between individual reflection and community involvement. Strobel humorously critiques the self-help approach to faith, highlighting the importance of a deeper connection with Christ, especially in today’s digital age.

Kyle Strobel, an associate professor at Talbot School of Theology and author, dives deep into the transformative nature of prayer. He challenges the misconception that prayer is about performance, encouraging authenticity instead. Kyle reveals how wandering thoughts can expose our true longings, viewing them as gifts rather than failures. The discussion touches on the dangers of performative prayer and the importance of bringing our true feelings to God. Ultimately, he emphasizes that real spiritual growth comes from vulnerability and trusting in God’s grace.

This episode features Dr. Kyle Strobel and Dr. Zachary Bowden discussing Jonathan Edwards. Topics include Edwards' views on the Trinity and creation, salvation and the Christian life, and his complex stance on slaveholding. The speakers also explore Edwards' influence on determinism and compatibilism, his theological views shaped by personal and pastoral context, and how he stokes confidence in God through the marvelous beauty of Christ.