By Kevin A. Hall, Ed.D.
What Is Spiritual Formation?
At its core, spiritual formation is the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ — in character, purpose, and community. For many, the phrase may sound academic or abstract, but it simply describes God’s ongoing work of transforming our hearts, minds, and actions through His Spirit, His Word, and His people.
God’s design for human life has always been relational. In Genesis, humanity is made in God’s image and invited into relationship with Him and with one another. We thrive in connection, not isolation. Just as an ecosystem depends on many parts working together, God’s people form a spiritual ecosystem — the “body of Christ” (1 Cor. 12:27) — where faith matures and grace flows from one life to another.
The Spiritual Ecosystem: How God Grows His People
The Church is not a building but a living organism. Within this divine ecosystem, believers grow through interaction, service, and shared worship. Paul’s image of the church as a body points to mutual dependence — every part needed, every gift valuable (Eph. 4:16).
Spiritual formation begins with a vertical connection to God through Christ and extends horizontally to others through acts of love and service. These two connections are inseparable. The Spirit empowers believers to grow in grace (2 Pet. 3:18), but it is often through others that God’s power is experienced — in accountability, encouragement, correction, and care.
When we nurture these connections, spiritual nutrients flow through the body of Christ. Faith is deepened, and communities become living reflections of God’s presence on earth.
