CS 501 Introduction to Christian SpiritualityA Philosophy of Christian SpiritualityThe Rule of Life

PHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN SPIRITUALITYBecky Towne

Christian spirituality is a way of connecting the finite with the eternal through interactions and

intersections of relationship as a follower of Christ JesusRelationship

with God – study,

responsiveness,

attentiveness, spiritual practices

Relationship with others – biblical love, community-

building, corporate spirituality

Relationship with self – spiritual balance,

removal of barriers, rest,

reflection, integrity

RULE OF LIFE – ITS NATUREChan, 190ff

Patterns of

Disciplines

• Not a set of rules to make oneself good and acceptable before God

• A new or renewed pattern of discipline to achieve ascetical proficiency as a participant within the Kingdom of God

Spiritual Rhythm

s

• Fits secular work into a spiritual rule rather than the other way around

• Establishes a rhythm to maintain spiritual focus

Status

of a Rule

• Rules lack benefit when viewed as ends unto themselves

• Embracing a rule reorders life according to one’s philosophy of Christian spirituality

RULE OF LIFE - PURPOSES

Reinforces holy habits• Becomes second

nature• Reaches a

degree of proficiency

Views spiritual life as holistic integration• Spiritual

disciplines• Spiritual

exercises

Functions as a standard of measurement• Individual and

corporate dimensions

• Personal and social dimensions

RULE OF LIFE – INDIVIDUAL AND CORPORATEPrayerfully covers the whole of life

• Should strike a balance between flexibility and perseverance

• Should be simple, easy to remember, and within reasonable reach

Personal Rule

• Can be used as a guide for the personal rule, when a common rule is already adopted

• Involves placing oneself under some kind of external accountability, often embraced publicly

Common Rule

WEBSITES OF INTEREST

http://www.mustardseedorder.com/cm/home/9 (Definition of a Rule of Life)

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/rul-benedict.html (Rule of St. Benedict)