The Spiritual Life Continuum
The Stages of the Christian Journey
based on the work of Renewal Works at Forward Movement
1. Exploring
People at this stage include both those newer to the Church and also those who have been active in Church for many years. They might have come out of a place of unbelief or just awakened to the reality that they want more than the passive approach to faith they grew up with. They now are taking small steps to have a more intentional approach to faith. Some markers of people at this stage include:
They have a hunger to learn more about the Christian faith.
They are drawn to the beauty and mystery of the Episcopal liturgy.
They affirm a belief in God but are unsure about the more particular claims about Jesus.
But on a general day to day basis, the faith is not a significant part of their life.
2. Growing
People at this stage are committed to the Christian faith but still have a lot of questions. They actively participate in church services and activities. They are trying to pursue their faith in intentional ways but it has not yet become a daily walk with God. Some markers of people at this stage include:
Consider themselves a committed Christian.
Active in church services and activities.
Have not yet developed an ongoing, day to day spiritual practice of nurturing a personal relationship with God.
The Christian faith is marked primarily by church participation but not on a deep, personal relationship with God in Christ.
3. Deepening
People at this stage are seeking to nurture a personal relationship with God. That personal relationship with God is increasingly becoming the centerpiece of their Christian faith as opposed to faith being exclusively about church activities. Also, spiritual friendships have become increasingly important for their faith. Some markers of people at this stage include:
Intentionally seeking to nurture a personal relationship with God.
Church services and activities have become an extension of one’s relationship with God. Faith is not simply about doing Church activities but now spring out of an internal relationship with God.
Spiritual friendships are becoming a significant ingredient in life.
God is becoming more and more a central factor for life on a day to day basis.
4. Centered
For people in this stage, their relationship with God has become the most important relationship in their lives. Every aspect of life is now lived out from their active, ongoing relationship with God. Some markers of people at this stage:
Active, ongoing relationship with God each day.
Every decision and aspect of life is now lived in view of seeking to love God and neighbor.
Where do you find yourself on the Spiritual Continuum?
Want to take an online inventory to determine where you land?
Follow the link below for an online assessment.
Where do you go from here? What can you do to move forward in your spiritual journey? Follow the link below to consider some resources and suggestions.