Comparing trendy spirituality with the Bible and church tradition.

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Overview

What is the new “secular spirituality” that some people are pursuing? While many of the emphases can be found in the heritage of the church, the familiar idea that we are climbing the ladder to heaven is being replaced by “sinking into the pulsating depths of existence” (Matthew Fox). And this is a far cry from the biblical accent on prayer and supplication. What should we know about this new spirituality? And how can we counter it within the framework of our own lives?

Table of Contents

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 57:1–2; 62:8; Lamentations 2:18–19; Isaiah 26:3–4; Romans 8:5–9, 14:17–18; 1 Corinthians 2:14, 3:1, 14: 1; Colossians 1:9–12

LEADER'S GUIDE

    • The Issue

Sample questions:

How would you define the word spirituality?

Author Donald G. Bloesch observes that interest in spirituality is burgeoning. How do you account for the current fascination with this topic?

Sample Scriptures:

Isaiah 26:3–4: Where does real peace come from?

Paul makes a point at the beginning of his letter to the Colossians that he is praying for God to fill them with all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Read Colossians 1:9–12 and discuss how each point in Paul’s prayer suggests an element of true spirituality.

Sample application questions:

What might you do to help the young people in your family or your church understand the difference between a popularized spirituality and what the Bible teaches?

Fellowship with God is based not on personal progress toward holiness but on the forgiveness of sins. How does that contrast with the popular ideas about spirituality?

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