Critical Issues Commentary

Is spiritual growth produced by our effort, or does it come through faith in the gospel? In this episode, Bob DeWaay examines John Mark Comer's claim that self-effort is central to spiritual formation through surrender and compares it with the Apostle Paul's teaching in Colossians 1:3–6.

Paul teaches that the gospel is continually bearing fruit and increasing among believers, not because of human striving, but through God's grace received by faith. Bob explains how genuine Christian growth flows from the finished work of Christ and the power of the gospel rather than techniques of self-transformation.

Join us as we explore the biblical doctrine of sanctification, the meaning of bearing fruit, and why confidence in Christ's completed work is essential for spiritual growth.

Grace Through Faith vs. Self-Effort Spiritual Formation Is spiritual growth produced by our effort, or does it come through...

John Mark Comer credits Richard Foster with launching a “renaissance” of spiritual formation in the Western Protestant church. But does this movement lead believers toward biblical faith—or away from it?
Bob DeWaay examines the claims of modern spiritual formation and warns that true spiritual growth does not come through mystical practices, spiritual directors, or contemplative techniques, but through faith in the revealed truth of Scripture.

This episode also addresses panentheism—the belief that God is somehow enfolded into creation—and explains the crucial biblical distinction of God’s transcendence and immanence. God is fully present everywhere, yet forever distinct from His creation.

Drawing from the book of Hebrews, Bob warns believers not to seek God through mystical experiences, but to approach Him through the new birth in Jesus Christ alone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TO8SggO2ytw

Resources:
Richard Foster Celebration of Deception
https://cicministry.org/commentary/issue112.htm

Reject the "Renaissance" of Spiritual Formation John Mark Comer credits Richard Foster with launching a “renaissanc...

How Do We Hear God Speak Conference
Follow-up Sermon

In this sermon, based on Romans 1:15, Pastor Bob DeWaay shows the importance of preaching the Gospel to the Church.

Seven Benefits of Preaching the Gospel to the Church How Do We Hear God Speak ConferenceFollow-up SermonIn this sermon, based on Romans 1:15, Pastor Bob DeWaay shows the importance of preaching the Gospel to th...