What is spiritual formation?

Spiritual Formation

Spiritual formation refers to the use of specific techniques such as meditation, contemplative prayer, chanting, visualization, and various so-called “spiritual disciplines” to seek an experience with God. Many of these practices aim to empty the mind of all thought, allowing individuals to “experience” the divine beyond all thought. Techniques like “seeking the silence,” “breath prayers,” and the repetition of single words or sentences in a mantra style are believed to help the soul connect with the divine. However, these practices, often rooted in New Age and Eastern Mysticism, represent subtle forms of spiritualism that stand in opposition to the teachings of the Word of God.

The concept of spiritual formation originated with Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, who developed it as a method for preparing Jesuit priests for their mission. Modern interpretations of spiritual formation appear to have direct ties to the Papacy. Roman Catholic mystics, along with New Agers and spiritualists, utilize these practices in their pursuit of “enlightenment” and communication with spiritual entities. To mislead individuals, spiritual formation is often presented with Christian terminology, falsely claiming to draw people closer to Christ.

Such teachings frequently lead to the conclusion that “all is one,” or that “God is all” (pantheism) or “God is in all” (panentheism). Contrary to claims that spiritual formation is a beneficial addition to the gospel, it is, in fact, dangerous. Mysticism can lead individuals into direct communication with demonic spirits rather than God, potentially resulting in spiritual deception or even demon possession.

Dangers of Spiritual Formation

1. Incorporation of Unbiblical Practices

A significant concern regarding contemporary spiritual formation practices is their incorporation of unbiblical or extra-biblical elements. For example, some practices draw on techniques from Eastern religions or secular psychology, which do not align with biblical teachings. In 2 Corinthians 11:13-15, the Apostle Paul warns against false apostles and deceitful workers:

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.” (NKJV)

This passage serves as a reminder for believers to remain vigilant against practices that may appear righteous but are rooted in deception.

2. Focus on Self and Personal Experience

Another issue with certain spiritual formation practices is their excessive emphasis on self and personal experience rather than on God and His Word. When practices prioritize personal experience or self-improvement over biblical truth, they can lead individuals away from the true purpose of spiritual growth. Jeremiah 17:9 highlights the deceptive nature of the human heart:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (NKJV)

Spiritual formation practices that focus on personal experience or subjective feelings, without a foundation in biblical truth, can lead to misguided or erroneous beliefs.

3. Influence of Eastern Mysticism, Contemplative, and New Age Practices

Mysticism and contemplative practices often involve meditation or visualization techniques that introduce elements not grounded in Scripture. Colossians 2:18 warns against self-imposed religious practices and the worship of angels:

“Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” (NKJV)

This verse cautions against practices that involve false humility or experiences that lack a biblical foundation.

The scriptures in Deuteronomy 18:10-11 provide further warnings against New Age and Eastern mysticism:

“There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead.” (NKJV)

Additionally, Leviticus 19:31 states:

“Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.” (NKJV)

4. Warning Against False Teachings

1 Timothy 4:1 warns that in the latter times, some will depart from the faith and give heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons:

“Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” (NKJV)

Believers are encouraged to be discerning and cautious regarding teachings and practices that do not align with Scripture. This warning underscores the importance of adhering strictly to biblical teachings and avoiding the incorporation of unbiblical elements into spiritual practices.

Biblical Principles for Spiritual Growth

1. Centering on Christ and His Word

True spiritual formation must center on Christ and His Word. John 15:4 emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ:

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” (NKJV)

2 Timothy 3:16-17 highlights the sufficiency of Scripture for spiritual growth:

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (NKJV)

2. Emphasizing Transformation by the Holy Spirit

Spiritual formation should involve transformation by the Holy Spirit rather than mere human effort. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit, which are evidence of genuine spiritual growth:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (NKJV)

A true spiritual experience with God comes from carefully comparing our characters with the Scriptures and His Law (Romans 3:20; 7:7), repenting of all sin (Luke 13:3), trusting in Christ’s love, grace, and shed blood (Ephesians 1:7,12,13), being “justified by faith” (Romans 5:1), receiving His Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5), being born again (John 3:5), and becoming “obedient children” (1 Peter 1:14) who obey God’s law through His power (Revelation 12:17; 14:12). This is the biblical doctrine taught by Jesus, the apostles, and all the prophets. Practices like “contemplative prayer,” “spiritual formation,” and Catholic-based “spiritual disciplines” are counterfeits of the true spiritual experience.

By centering spiritual growth on Christ and His Word, and avoiding New Age and Eastern Mysticism practices that deviate from biblical doctrine, believers can pursue spiritual growth that honors God and reflects His truth.