The Apprenticeship Journey
An interactive guide to the stages of spiritual formation.
The Call to Apprenticeship
This section introduces the foundational shift from passive faith to active apprenticeship. It explores the core commitments that define the journey: a dynamic relationship with Jesus, the reality of "costly grace," and the necessity of a "long obedience."
Beyond Belief to Transformation
Dallas Willard reframes discipleship as an active apprenticeship: intentionally "being with Jesus to learn to be like him." This is not a static status but a dynamic process of integrating one's entire existence into God's kingdom through loving cooperation and shared aims. It's a journey of becoming, not just believing.
Costly Grace
Dietrich Bonhoeffer contrasts "cheap grace" (forgiveness without repentance) with "costly grace"—a call that demands obedience, sacrifice, and genuine transformation. It is the treasure that compels us to give up everything else.
A Long Obedience
Eugene Peterson emphasizes that spiritual maturity requires steadfast persistence and endurance. It is a marathon, not a sprint—a consistent, daily living out of faith rather than a search for instant spiritual highs.
The Nature of Our Being
Transformation is not fragmented; it engages our whole person. This section explores the interconnected dimensions of the self that God renovates and the crucial link between our emotional health and spiritual maturity.
Holistic Transformation
Dallas Willard outlines six interconnected dimensions of the human person that are transformed in apprenticeship. Hover over the points on the chart to see how each area is vital for becoming like Christ.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Peter Scazzero argues it's impossible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature. Emotional health isn't separate from spirituality; it's foundational to it. Ignoring our inner life of feeling leads to a shallow, unsustainable faith.
- ✓Know Yourself to Know God: Self-awareness is the soil for intimacy with God.
- ✓Go Back to Go Forward: Healing requires revisiting our past and family of origin.
- ✓Embrace Grief and Loss: Honest lament is a biblical practice that leads to maturity.
The Path of Growth
While unique to each person, the spiritual journey often follows recognizable patterns. Below is an interactive model based on the work of Hagberg & Guelich, outlining six common stages of faith. Click on each stage to explore its characteristics.
Select a Stage
Click on a stage to the left to learn about its core themes, characteristics, and challenges.
The Life of Practice
Transformation is not passive; it is cultivated through intentional habits. This section details the spiritual disciplines that create space for God to work and the concept of a "Rule of Life" to sustain our journey.
The Spiritual Disciplines
Developing a "Rule of Life"
A "Rule of Life" is a personal framework of intentional practices that helps you remain anchored in Christ. It's not a set of rigid laws, but a life-giving structure for your unique journey. It operationalizes a "long obedience" by turning aspirations into sustainable habits.
1. Prayer & Contemplation
Establishing rhythms of connection with God (e.g., daily prayer, weekly silence).
2. Rest & Restoration
Honoring Sabbath, sleep, and recreation as spiritual acts.
3. Work & Service
Integrating faith into your vocation and acts of love for others.
4. Relationships & Community
Intentionally cultivating healthy, life-giving connections.