First Followers
First Followers is a year-long practical study of the process of becoming your best self for the world. The journey takes participants through an intensive exploration of their personal God-narratives, the work of the Spirit, spiritual practices, and community. The format of the experience includes reading, reflection, gathering and retreat.
Four Phases
While the process of spiritual formation is deeply integrated, for the purpose of learning we have divided it into four phases.
Narrative
We all live out narratives that have been shaped in us over time. In this phase we explore the false nature of our old narratives and discover ways they can be replaced with new ones that guide us toward living in the Kingdom of God.
Yielding
Everyone’s soul is aiming toward a perceived version of the good life. But scarcity, fear, insecurity and jealousy tempt us to covet other lives and project a false life. This can be exhausting and destructive to the soul. By surrendering to the Spirit and the resurrection power Christ, we aim in the direction of his love for our lives.
Practice Spiritual
Practices help believers to live like Jesus Christ and develop awareness of the soul’s health. God gives us these tools and we must learn when and how to use them. Fortunately, we have many centuries of teaching from faithful guides from which to learn these ancient ways.
Community
The two greatest commandments are really two sides of the same coin. We cannot love God without also loving others. Spiritual formation does not happen apart from community and a commitment to be with and for each other helping one another become our best for the world.
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First Followers is a year-long practical study of the process of becoming your best self for the world. The journey takes participants through an intensive exploration of their personal God-narratives, the work of the Spirit, spiritual practices, and community. The format of the experience includes reading, reflection, gathering and retreat.
Four Phases
While the process of spiritual formation is deeply integrated, for the purpose of learning we have divided it into four phases.
Narrative
We all live out narratives that have been shaped in us over time. In this phase we explore the false nature of our old narratives and discover ways they can be replaced with new ones that guide us toward living in the Kingdom of God.
Yielding
Everyone’s soul is aiming toward a perceived version of the good life. But scarcity, fear, insecurity and jealousy tempt us to covet other lives and project a false life. This can be exhausting and destructive to the soul. By surrendering to the Spirit and the resurrection power Christ, we aim in the direction of his love for our lives.
Practice Spiritual
Practices help believers to live like Jesus Christ and develop awareness of the soul’s health. God gives us these tools and we must learn when and how to use them. Fortunately, we have many centuries of teaching from faithful guides from which to learn these ancient ways.
Community
The two greatest commandments are really two sides of the same coin. We cannot love God without also loving others. Spiritual formation does not happen apart from community and a commitment to be with and for each other helping one another become our best for the world.