Week 1: Introduction — Real Change for Real Sinners

1.Ortlund opens by acknowledging that most Christians already feel the call to grow — but many are confused about how. How would you have answered the question "how do Christians grow?" before picking up this book? What assumptions or methods have shaped your approach to sanctification?

2.The subtitle of the book is "Real Change for Real Sinners." What do you think Ortlund is signaling with that phrase? Who is this book written for, and why does the word "real" appear twice?

3.Ortlund anchors the entire book in 2 Peter 3:18 — "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." What is the difference between growing in knowledge *about* Jesus and growing in the grace and knowledge *of* Jesus? Why does the distinction matter?

4.From the outset, Ortlund draws a contrast between "going deeper" and "doing more." In your own Christian life, where have you tended to default to "doing more" as your strategy for growth? What fruit (or lack of fruit) has that produced?

5.Ortlund leans heavily on historical theologians throughout the book — Owen, Edwards, Goodwin, and others. What is your initial reaction to that approach? Do you find older voices in theology helpful, intimidating, or irrelevant? Why?

6.Ortlund writes for people who feel stuck — who have tried and failed to grow, or who wonder if genuine change is really possible for someone like them. Do you identify with that feeling? What has made you feel stuck in your spiritual life?

7.How does centering sanctification on Christ — rather than on programs, disciplines, or willpower — change the emotional texture of the Christian life? Does it feel like relief, or does it feel like it might be too easy? Be honest.

8.As you begin this study, what is the one thing you most hope to understand or experience differently about Christian growth by the time you finish?