In this episode of Local Theologians, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Dr. Joseph Lanier about the role of virtue in Christian formation and discipleship. Drawing from themes explored in their new book, Every Perfect Gift: Classical Virtues for Christian Formation (B&H Academic, 2026), they discuss how the historic framework of the theological and cardinal virtues provides Christians with a time-tested paradigm for spiritual growth. Rather than focusing on spiritual fads or techniques, the conversation highlights how virtues shape believers into the kind of people who naturally love God and neighbor well. Together they explore the relationship between union with Christ, habit formation, moral growth, and the lifelong pursuit of Christlikeness.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

virtue, Christian formation, discipleship, Joseph Lanier, faith, hope, love, prudence, justice, temperance, fortitude, spiritual growth, classical virtues, union with Christ

Takeaways

• Virtue is a habit or disposition that inclines believers toward what is good and pleasing to God.

• Christian virtue is rooted in union with Christ, not an attempt to earn God’s favor.

• The theological virtues of faith, hope, and love orient believers toward God as their highest good.

• The cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude help Christians faithfully navigate everyday life.

• Spiritual maturity develops through repeated practice and habituation, much like any skill or craft.

• Virtue formation helps believers resist theological and cultural fads by rooting them in enduring Christian wisdom.

• The Christian life is not merely about making correct decisions but becoming the kind of person who desires what is good.

• Biblical images like trees bearing fruit illustrate how godly character flows from a transformed nature in Christ.

• Growth in virtue benefits both personal holiness and the good of the church community.

• The virtues serve as “basic equipment for discipleship,” helping Christians pursue a well-rounded and stable spiritual life.