The Cities Institute exists to provide the theological foundations for a life of discipleship and gospel advance.
Track II Christian Formation aims to deepen each participant’s understanding of the Christian’s calling to become more like Jesus from the heart. Our calling to Christlikeness — what Paul describes as being “mature in Christ” (see Colossians 1:28) — is the goal of discipleship and thus is central to the mission of Cities Church.
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Through rigorous attention to selected readings, personal reflection, and a mixture of class lectures and group discussions, each participant who completes this course will be better equipped to:
Understand the meaning of spiritual formation and a basic framework of human personhood
Experience renewal in one’s own pursuit of Christlikeness
Develop a vision for the transformation of every dimension of human life and how the local church might support such a vision
Throughout the 12-week period of March 1 – May 10, the women's cohort will meet for a total of 6 sessions, featuring teaching and group discussion of the reading material. The Women’s cohort will meet Saturdays, 9:00–10:30am.
Required text: Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard. (Participants are responsible for purchasing the required book. Please order in advance, so you have plenty of time for the required reading for Session 1.)
Schedule:
March 1
What is Spiritual Formation? (Read chapters 1, 3-4)
March 15
The Heart of the Human Person and the Pattern of Spiritual Change (Read chapters 2, 5)
March 29
Transforming the Mind: Thoughts and Feelings (Read chapters 6-7)
April 12
Transforming the Will and Body (Read chapter 8-9)
April 26
Transforming Relationships and the Soul (Read chapters 10-11)
May 10
Living on Purpose (Read chapters 12-13)