Spiritual Archives

Should Christians Serve in Government?

Should Christians serve in government? What is Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s view? According to Bonhoeffer, Christians should not hold a position with the government. He gives three reasons for this in his book The Cost of Discipleship. Some Christians (and perhaps even the Bible) do not support his position, and it seems that Bonhoeffer himself might have changed some of his views over time. Keep reading to learn more about Bonhoeffer’s perspective on Christians in government.

The Cost of Discipleship: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Classic

Why is The Cost of Discipleship so widely read? What is the book’s main argument? What does Bonhoeffer mean by the “cost of discipleship”? The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a classic of Christian thought. Bonhoeffer wrote the book as a challenge to Christians to take their faith more seriously and realize its true requirements. Here’s a brief overview of the key themes discussed in the book.

Ryan Holiday: The Art of Stoic Acceptance

How do you practice Stoic acceptance? How does cultivating total acceptance of the things that are beyond your control help you move forward in life? Acceptance is one of the key tenets of Stoic philosophy. Once you’ve learned to face life with stoic acceptance and peacefully accept whatever is beyond your control, you can channel all your energy into achieving your goals—instead of ruminating about your powerlessness. Keep reading to learn about the art of Stoic acceptance and how to put it into practice.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Cheap Grace Isn’t True Grace

What is cheap grace? How does it put you at risk? According to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, cheap grace isn’t true grace (or salvation) at all. It’s dangerous because the illusion of cheap grace can lull you into a false sense of security, causing you to be sure of your salvation when it isn’t sure at all. Read more to learn about cheap grace.

The Observing Self vs. the Thinking Self

What is the thinking self? Do you agree with Descartes’ philosophical notion that “I think, therefore I am?” We have two minds or “selves” that affect our response to events: the thinking self and the observing self. The thinking self provides a running (judgmental) commentary on events, while the observing self neutrally observes this running commentary. In this article, we’ll define the thinking self and the observing self and explore the relationship between the two minds.

A Personal Relationship With God: Obedience Is Central

What does it mean to have a personal relationship with God? What is the role of obedience in this relationship? Dietrich Bonhoeffer explains that a personal relationship with God is how discipleship works—and that obedience is at the center. A true disciple seeks to obey Jesus. Keep reading to learn about obedience within a personal relationship with God.

Can a Christian Lose Their Salvation?

Can a Christian lose their salvation? Is salvation guaranteed? Are there categories of sin? According to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, salvation can be forfeited. However, his views on sin and the loss of salvation differ in some ways from the perspectives of the Catholic church, John Calvin, and other Christians. Read more to learn about these various theological views.

Suffering for Christ: The Hallmark of Discipleship

Do you experience suffering as a result of following Christ? Should you expect to? According to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, suffering for Christ is central to the discipleship experience. He argues that, as disciples become more and more like Christ, they are treated more and more like Christ was treated on earth. So, Christians should expect to be persecuted. This is part of the cost of discipleship. Read more to learn about suffering for Christ.

Contrasting Perspectives on Fasting for Spiritual Growth

What is fasting? How does it contribute to spiritual growth? Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his book The Cost of Discipleship, urges Christians to practice fasting for spiritual growth. He argues that the suffering that comes from fasting builds self-discipline. Other religious traditions differ in some ways regarding their views toward fasting, but many still see it as a part of spiritual life. Read more to learn about fasting for spiritual growth.

What Is the Point of Meditation? The Key to Mindfulness

What is the point of meditation? How can meditation be used as a tool? In his book 10% Happier, Dan Harris believes that the main goal of meditation is mindfulness. In addition, meditation can have added benefits such as recognizing your ego, Here is what self-help author Dan Harris had to say about meditation.