Is it Time for a Reformation of Spiritual Formation?  Recovering Ontology

This essay presents a trinitarian alternative to anthropologically-centered forms of Spiritual formation. As such it argues that what is commonly practiced is a “subjective moral formation,” and what is proposed as a solution or antidote to this is an “objective trinitarian participation.” Christologically anemic versions of anthropologically-centered Spiritual formation are examined and contrasted against an approach grounded in a christological ontology. It contends that the critical question for any Spiritual formation framework, practice, or system must be, “What work does the ascended incarnate Christ do in this description of the Christian life?” It argues that Spiritual formation is most properly understood through the dynamic trinitarian lens of participation in the Son’s relation with the Father through the Spirit. Central to this approach is the restoration of the role of the living, ascended Christ as primary agent in the life of the Christian. The work of Thomas F. Torrance serves as a guide for this latter position and is shown to be a valuable resource in both grounding and furthering the conversation on contemporary ecclesial practices of Spiritual formation.