Defining Christian Spirituality (Howard)

Many types of “spirituality”

In this case, we are focusing on what “Christian spirituality” is.

Definition

Christian spirituality refer to:

a relationship with God

as lived in practice

as dynamics are formulated,

and as explored through formal study.

About our relationship with God - cf. the contrast between “theology” as a doctrinal understanding, “discipleship” as practice of the faith, and “spirituality” as an exploration of the lived experience of God.

Spirituality may be ‘practiced’ through daily activities and experiences

There are are certain dynamics of spirituality that have been manifested and formulated throughout history. (I.e Lutheran Spirituality, Charismatic Spirituality etc.)

There is an academic level of study which reflects on the other levels of Spirituality.

Spirituality is more “descriptive” of human experiences rather than “prescriptive”. The focus is not so much how one ‘should’ mature in their faith, rather it is on how people ‘do’ mature in their faith. Christian spirituality is an “is” of the Christian faith which can partner with the “could be” of spiritual theology/formation.

When pursued together, spirituality along with theology/discipleship offers a more holistic wisdom for the Christian faith.