Abba's Child by Brennan Manning
Week 9: Chapter 9 — Transforming Union
Read Chapter 9 of Abba's Child. Key Scripture: John 15:1–11; John 17:20–26; Galatians 2:20.
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Manning brings the book toward its conclusion by describing the destination this journey is heading toward — not merely a better self-image, but genuine union with God.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Manning describes "transforming union" in language drawn from the Christian mystical tradition — a deep, intimate, ongoing communion with God in which our very identity becomes rooted in His. How is this different from simply "having a relationship with God" in the way that phrase is commonly used in evangelical culture?
2.John 15's image of the vine and branches is central to this chapter. Manning stresses that branches do not produce fruit by effort but by remaining — *abiding* — in the vine. What does genuine abiding look like in daily life, and how is it different from simply being busy with religious activity?
3.Paul writes in Galatians 2:20, "I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Manning treats this not as hyperbole but as the normal destination of the Christian life. What would need to change — in your daily habits, your motivations, your inner monologue — for this verse to become more descriptive of your life?
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