Spiritual Formation - Part 1 (Post 4)

Peter, as one of Jesus' close and intimate disciples, was following, listening, learning from his Rabbi.  In the process, he was being formed by Jesus.  He was being shaped spiritually.  That's what spiritual formation is all about - that shaping.  That's what discipleship is all about - being transformed to be like the Lord.

Dallas Willard speaks of spiritual formation:

The reason for the recent abrupt emergence of the terminology into religious life is, I believe, a growing suspicion or realization that we have not done well with the reality and the need.  We have counted on preaching, teaching, and knowledge or information to form faith in the hearers, and have counted on faith to form the inner life and outward behavior of the christian.  But, for whatever reason, this strategy has not turned out well. the result is that we have multitudes of professing Christians who well may be ready to die, but obviously are not ready to live, and can hardly get along with themselves, much less with others.

What did Peter have to learn?  What did Jesus use to shape him spiritually?  In our study together, we are going to observe several instances - both conversations and events - where Peter is being spiritually formed.  And by the grace of God, we can glean some principles and guidelines that will help us as we long to be shaped so that we reflect the image of Christ in our worlds.  

Let's read ... watch for Peter and think about what he would be hearing and learning ... and then join me for a few observations:

Read Luke 6: 1 - 6

Observations:
          1.  Jesus gave the 12 both the power and the authority to do His work.  Power has to do with ability and authority has to do with the right to do it.  I think Peter needed to learn that his work was now kingdom work ... which is to be an extension of Jesus Himself.  

          2.  Peter and the others had to learn that their trust was to be in God - not in themselves or their abilities or their resources.  

          3.  They had to accept the kindnesses of others as they were serving.  Why is it so often easier to be the "helper" than to be the recipient?  Does it have to do with pride?  

Principle #1 for Spiritual Formation:

Trust God and do the work.

Read Matthew 14: 25 - 33

Observations:

          1.  Peter was willing.  Peter's desire was to be a faithful and responsive disciple.  I love him for that.  

          2.  Peter voiced his doubt.  He asked, "Lord, IF it is you ..."  I love his honesty.  God can handle our doubts.  I believe God is honored most when His followers are willing to step out in faith even when there are pesky, nagging thoughts of doubt and confusion.  

          3.  Jesus knew Peter would sink.  Jesus knew Peter would loose his focus and become afraid of the circumstances.  So why did He invite Peter to come on out?  I think it is because Jesus is in the business of shaping him.  And Jesus knew (and still knows!) that lessons learned through failure are the most powerful ones.  

Principle #2 for Spiritual Formation:

Keep your focus on the Lord, not the circumstances.

(to be continued)