The Inward Disciplines

Contemporary Western Thought

The Call to Discipleship

Dallas Willard Somehow, the fact that “mortification”— self-denial, the disciplining of one’s natural impulses—happens to be a central teaching of the New Testament is conveniently ignored.... The result is our almost universal inability to understand what the disciplines for the spiritual life are.

Study  What comes to mind when you hear the word “study”?  An attempt to define follows: Careful attention so that the mind will move in a certain direction and experience spiritual transformation The framework with which meditation can successfully function (read, reflect, and respond)

Study  Why should disciples study? To gain perspective into the reality of situations, encounters, books, etc. To learn and then to apply ○ Repetition – ingrains habits of thoughts ○ Concentration – centers the mind ○ Comprehension – leads to insight and discernment ○ Reflection – defines the significance of what is studied

Study  The study of books (in this order) Understanding: What is the author saying? Interpreting: What does the author mean? Evaluating: Is the author right or wrong?  How does study differ from spiritual or devotional reading?

Study  The study of nonverbal “books” The observation of reality in things, events, and actions As with the study of books, begin by paying attention ○ Nature ○ Relationships ○ Oneself Learn to ask good questions

Study  Spiritual Practices Memorization, Bible study, Contemplation, Examen, 52-5 Journaling, 56-8 Practicing the presence, 60-2 Teachability, 82-4  Small Group Exercise – Lectio Divina