1. CS 501 Introduction to Christian Spirituality
A Philosophy of Christian Spirituality
The Rule of Life

2. Philosophy of Christian Spirituality – the Definition
Becky Towne
Christian spirituality is a way of connecting the finite with the eternal through interactions and intersections of relationship as a follower of Christ Jesus

3. philosophy of Christian Spirituality – Building the philosophy
Becky Towne
Christian spirituality is a way of connecting the finite with the eternal through interactions and intersections of relationship as a follower of Christ Jesus
Relationship with God – study, responsiveness, attentiveness, spiritual practices
Relationship with others –biblical love, community-building, corporate spirituality
Relationship with self – spiritual balance, removal of barriers, rest, reflection, integrity

4. Philosophy of Christian Spirituality
Becky Towne 2012
Christian spirituality involves living a life in balance relationally, transformationally, and vocationally.
Connecting with God, others, and self (relational)
Becoming more like Christ (transformational)
Doing the will of God (vocational)

5. Rule of Life – Its nature
Chan, 190ff
Patterns of Disciplines
Not a set of rules to make oneself good and acceptable before God
A new or renewed pattern of discipline to achieve ascetical proficiency as a participant within the Kingdom of God
Spiritual Rhythms
Fits secular work into a spiritual rule rather than the other way around
Establishes a rhythm to maintain spiritual focus
Status of a Rule
Rules lack benefit when viewed as ends unto themselves
Embracing a rule reorders life according to one’s philosophy of Christian spirituality

6. Reinforces holy habits Views spiritual life as holistic integration
Rule of Life - purposes
Reinforces holy habits
Becomes second nature
Reaches a degree of proficiency
Views spiritual life as holistic integration
Spiritual disciplines
Spiritual exercises
Functions as a standard of measurement
Individual and corporate dimensions
Personal and social dimensions

7. Rule of life – Individual and corporate
Prayerfully covers the whole of life
Should strike a balance between flexibility and perseverance
Should be simple, easy to remember, and within reasonable reach
Personal Rule
Can be used as a guide for the personal rule, when a common rule is already adopted
Involves placing oneself under some kind of external accountability, often embraced publicly
Common Rule

8. Websites of Interest
9 (Definition of a Rule of Life)
benedict.html (Rule of St. Benedict)