resources from one of Christianity's leading thinkers: Dallas Willard

Although Dallas Willard's Renovation of the Heart is an accessible handbook for learning about spiritual formation, it's not lightweight by any stretch of the imagination. It compels the reader to take in the concepts slowly, underline important passages, scribble notes in the margins, and slowly absorb and put into practice the ideas Willard espouses. "Although there is much talk about 'changing lives' in Christian circles, the reality is very rare, and certainly much less common than the talk," writes Willard. But, he adds, no one need live in spiritual and personal defeat. Rather, the way of change is through inner transformation and taking the small steps that lead one to it. Beginning with an introduction to spiritual formation, he then outlines the avenues through which transformation takes place, including thoughts, feelings, choices, social context, the body, and the soul. Each chapter concludes with questions for personal or group reflection. Read it once, then keep it close for further reference—it's a book that will continually refresh a spiritual journey. —Cindy Crosby

The Divine Conspiracy : Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God

Dallas Willard, an acclaimed theologian and professor of philosophy at the University of Southern California, fulfills the longing of many Christians who want to live as true disciples of Christ rather than distant dabblers. Likewise, he scoffs at consumer Christians who are simply banking on admittance to heaven as their payoff for attending church. Or worse still, those who use Christianity to advance their political agendas rather than their spiritual ones. But this is not a scolding book. Rather, Willard devotes his efforts to discussing specific and inspiring ways to develop a discipleship to Jesus--not as an act of sacrifice or even one of spiritual luxury--instead, as everyday people committed to the teachings of Christ. "The really good news for Christians is that Jesus is now taking students in the master class of life," writes Willard. "So the message of and about him is specifically a gospel for our life now, not just for dying. It is about living now as his apprentices in kingdom living, not just as consumers of his merits." — Gail Hudson

Dallas Willard's Study Guide to the Divine Conspiracy

This study guide expands the discussion begun in The Divine Conspiracy, focusing on and clarifying key issues and encouraging a fuller understanding of Christian discipleship. Here you will find:

Overviews and summaries of each chapter of The Divine Conspiracy

Scripture meditations to enhance your understanding of the text

Study questions to facilitate stimulating discussion and reflection

The Spirit of the Disciplines : Understanding How God Changes Lives

"A strong call to biblical obedience and discipline, this book presents a fresh look at the eternal--and contemporary--relevance of the Scriptures." — Ted W. Engstrom, president emeritus, World Vision

"Few books have challenged me like this one. I would urge every serious minded Christian to read it...at your own risk." — Bill Hybels, author of Honest to God?

Hearing God : Developing a Conversational Relationship with God

In this updated classic, originally published as In Search of Guidance, the author provides rich spiritual insight into how we can hear God's voice clearly and develop an intimate partnership with him in the work of his kingdom.

Willard gives thoughtful and practical help on communicating with God.