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Introduction

This book proposes a new (yet old) definition of religion that may take you by surprise. When you realize its implications, you may find yourself changed. On the other hand, you may feel a sense of coming home.

For at least the past century, with roots going back much earlier, most of the Christian West has defined itself by doctrine or dogma. Creeds, confessions, and doctrinal statements described the nature of “faith” (which was basically intellectual assent). While I’m not saying that the interest in doctrines is misplaced, it has often crowded out other aspects of faith.

Christianity should be a way of life—one characterized by communion with God. Jesus was a religious bombshell in people’s thoughts because they eventually realized that He was God interacting with humanity. Matthew called Him “Immanuel”—which means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). The divine-human communion (a close two-way relationship) that humanity had lost in Eden, Jesus was now in process of restoring. When He left our world to return to heaven, He bequeathed His Spirit to His followers. The Holy Spirit was His ongoing presence. God meant Christianity to be an ongoing communion of interaction with Him via Jesus through the Holy Spirit.

This book aims to explain some of this, but even more than that, it seeks to be an invitation to you. I call you to accept this original definition of the Christian religion and decide to live a life of communion with God. I outline suggested steps to satisfy the hunger that the unbalanced interest in and use of doctrines has left in so many lives.

Please come on this journey with me. Some parts of what I say need careful attention and thought. You may not always agree with what I say, but I believe that if you listen and follow it you will find yourself changed.

Note: 1. At the beginning of each chapter you will find quotations attributed to FELLOW SPIRITUAL PILGRIMS. Who are they? For years as I have taught biblical spirituality to students, I have found it to be a two-way street. They teach me too. Their words and papers (these quotes are from them) have also blessed me. Please join us as fellow pilgrims on this spiritual journey.

2. Please remember that when I quote or refer to other sources or authors it does not imply I agree, in all respects, with these authors or their writings, and/or beliefs and ideas.