#Values: Values are definitions of what we hope will identify us. These articles are mainly intended for those who wish to join us in this project—whether through prayer, donation, or collaboration.
We focus on Christ being formed in us through individual and communal practices that transform our lives in all areas: family, education, work, business, civic participation, social outreach, and service in the local and global church.
Beta Values #5: Holistic Spiritual Formation
Spiritual growth is the result of God’s grace working in our hearts and transforming our actions. We respond to that grace for our formation, which takes place through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
This transformation process is cultivated day by day as we respond to God’s love and commit to abiding in Christ. In the Spirit’s power, we are conformed to His image and learn to love as He loves (Romans 8:28–30; 1 Corinthians 15:49; 2 Corinthians 3:18). Holiness—living in the fullness of Christ by walking in His light—is the pursuit of disciples who participate in the life of Christ and seek to become like Him. This begins in the heart, for without a transformed heart, it is impossible to reflect God’s image in our actions.
It’s not about fleeting emotions or meaningless mysticism, but about what Paul calls “the fruit of the Spirit,” which must govern our intentions and desires. Faith, hope, and love for God and neighbor are the motivations that shape our lives and actions (along with growth in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control; see 1 Corinthians 13, Galatians 5:22–23).
As Max Lucado puts it: “God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way.” His purpose is for us to receive His love in such a way that we reflect Him and share Him with others.
Finally, we must remember that this journey works within a paradox. We must long for Christ to be formed in us, knowing that we will likely fail along the way. The issue is not pretending to be perfect, but rather, acknowledging our mistakes and weaknesses as we sincerely desire to reflect Christ’s character with our lives (1 John 1:5–2:11). Seeking holiness means doing so with the honesty and humility Christ Himself modeled. Otherwise, we fall into self-righteousness—pretending to have a moral superiority that Scripture only attributes to Christ. As Paul says, “His power is made perfect in our weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9–10).
All of this must be taken step by step, with patience, grace toward oneself, and spiritual disciplines. Depending on the Holy Spirit, grounded in God’s grace, and following Christ’s example, the Christian life shouldn’t be a burden—as Jesus reminds us: “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28–30; 1 John 5:3).
Spiritual disciplines are practices we engage in with the aim that Christ be formed in us in every aspect of our lives. These practices can be personal or communal, experienced in solitude or with others. The most well-known are prayer and Bible reading, but we can include other Christ-shaped practices that help us follow in His footsteps.
It’s about following and imitating Jesus—and helping others follow and imitate Him. It’s for everyone, not just a select few.
— Eun Strawser, Centering Discipleship
In the same way that we engage in regular spiritual practices, our lives are gradually conformed and transformed into the image and likeness of Christ.
— Mark Maddix, in Essential Beliefs
Disciplines themselves are not transformative, but they place the soul in a position to be transformed by God.
— Dallas Willard, quoted by James Wilder in Renovated
Our rich Wesleyan heritage provides a theological framework for understanding how people have grown spiritually in the past, and how participation in the means of grace can help present and future generations experience God’s transforming grace. As Christians participate in the means of grace, both individually and corporately, they open themselves up to receive grace and become more like Christ.
— Mark Maddix, in Essential Beliefs
The church is the organic and corporate instrument God has chosen to remake both individuals and society. It has a mission of holy love. The church exists to produce Christlikeness in persons and institutions. Thus, our mission can be described as participation with God in bringing holiness and love to bear on people’s sins, sufferings, and needs. This description of our mission is both individual and social. It points toward a social relationship of persons toward God and one another.
— Book of Discipline, Free Methodist Church, 2023