In this inaugural episode of "Formed," Pastor Ryan Brandenberger explores the foundational concerns of spiritual formation to gain a deeper understanding of what is required for success on the journey toward Christlike maturity. Five key components are included: a biblical foundation, individual practices, community formation, holistic integration, and essential intentionality. This provides a platform for exploring spiritual formation in growth groups, where members can catalyze spiritual development in one another. Details and coaching on how to do this will be provided in later episodes.

Segment 1 - Biblical Foundation - (2:13)

Segment 2 - Individual Practices - (16:35)

Segment 3 - Formation in Community - (20:33)

Segment 4 - Whole-life Integration - (29:36)

Segment 5 - Essential Intentionality - (31:42)

This podcast exists to equip and encourage leaders of spiritual accountability groups with biblical wisdom, practical tools, and soul-deep formation resources, enabling them to guide others toward authentic and joy-filled growth in Christ.

For questions or comments, please get in touch with us at formedjourney@gmail.com.

Materials Referenced:

Dallas Willard. The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus’s Essential Teachings on Discipleship. HarperOne, 2014.

David G. Benner. Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship & Direction. InterVarsity Press, 2003.

John Mark Comer. Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like Him. Do as He Did. WaterBrook, 2024.

Jeffrey P. Greenman. “Spiritual Formation in Theological Perspective,” in Life in the Spirit: Spiritual Formation in Theological Perspective. IVP Academic, 2010.

Paul Pettit. “Introduction,” in Foundations of Spiritual Formation: A Community Approach to Becoming Like Christ. Kregel Academic, 2008.