Spiritual Fitness: Christian Character in a Consumer Culture

(Paperback)

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Description

A focus on physical fitness is part of modern culture, but not so when it comes to spiritual fitness. Graham Tomlin asks what can be done Physical health and fitness require discipline, self-denial and cost; so, too, with spiritual fitness. This is a very practical book giving churches and their members tools with which to start to reverse the trend of spiritual flabbiness, benefitting both themselves and society, as the church becomes more appealing and significant. This book is for all who feel disatisfied with their Christian faith, who are concerned about the future of the church, or who want to see the church becoming more relevant to modern culture.

Reviews

"Written by the Principal of St. Paul's Theological Centre, Graham Tomlin, Spiritual Fitness: Christian Character in a Consumer Culture connects a parallel between physical and spiritual fitness. Both require daily maintenance and attention, and both are vital to human well being. Tomlin stresses that spiritual fitness is vital not only for the church itself, but also society as a whole, and offers guidelines to help churches transform into agents of change and spiritual renaissance. From cultivating virtue to the vital role of discipline in enacting spiritual transformation, to the necessity, power, and difficulty of forgiveness, Spiritual Fitness conceptualizes a powerful antidote to the consumption and luxury-driven culture advertised by modern media that can all too readily drown out the finer and holier aspects of life." Reviewed in The Midwest Book Review, December 2006
'a practical study in real-life Christ-likeness. Tomlin helpfully explores the success of the Early Church, and he studies virtue ethics in an accessible manner....He promotes the virtues of house groups, and his argument is convincing. This energising book might be useful fora parish reading-group.' ~ Revd Jennie Hogan, Church Times, 15/12/2006 -- Revd Jennie Hogan * Church Times *
'This is one of those books that make you bounce up and down in your armchair, saying: "Oh yes, how true!" while scribbling excited notes in the margin.' 'Spiritual Fitness is a challenge and passionate call for a growth in holiness.' - John Wall, Church Times -- John Wall * Church Times *
'Commending the work, McGrath says: "Graham Tomlin offers a breath of fresh air for the growing number of Christians who feel that the churches do not meet their spiritual needs. Packed with spiritual wisdom and insight, this book will encourage Christians to take their spiritual development seriously and hep them along the way."'~ Life and Work, 1 August 2006 * Life and Work *
'Scholarship is combined in the book with an accessible style...there are plenty of refreshing insights.' * Methodist Recorder *
Edited extract taken from Spiritual Fitness in Methodist Recorder, April 2006 * Methodist Recorder *

Author Bio

Graham Tomlin is President of St Mellitus College, UK, and the Bishop of Kensington.