Exploring Apprenticeship to Jesus and the Vital Role of Community

Apprenticeship to Jesus is a lifelong process similar to training for a highly skilled profession, emphasizing the necessity of community for spiritual growth. The essence of spiritual journey is becoming a person of love, with love being the core of Christian spirituality. Spiritual formation is not just about practices but primarily a relational process that occurs within a community. Long-term interpersonal relationships in a local church are essential for genuine progress in the Christian life, as those who stay and engage in discord and conflict resolution grow, while those who leave do not. Church, particularly in smaller, relational spaces, is crucial for profound personal growth. The concept of community, illustrated by Dunbar's four circles of community, highlights the importance of having intimates and friends who know and support us, emphasizing the negative impact of radical individualism on forming deep connections.