Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard
Week 10: Chapter 9 — Transforming the Whole Person
Read Chapter 9 of Renovation of the Heart. Key passages: Colossians 3:1-17; 2 Peter 1:3-8.
Previewing Week 10 of Renovation of the Heart
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 15-week guide when you’re ready.
Having examined each dimension of the human person separately, Willard now brings them together and shows how transformation of the whole self is both possible and necessary — no dimension can be healthy while the others remain untouched.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Willard argues that the dimensions of the self (will, mind, body, emotions, social life, soul) are deeply interconnected — transformation in one area affects the others, and neglect in one area sabotages the others. Can you identify a time when growth in one area of your life produced unexpected growth in another?
2.He introduces the concept of 'VIM' — Vision, Intention, and Means — as the general pattern for transformation in any area of life. What is the practical value of this framework? Why do so many attempts at spiritual growth fail at the 'Intention' stage before they even reach the 'Means'?
3.Colossians 3:1-17 describes the Christian life as 'putting off' old patterns and 'putting on' new ones. Willard treats this as not just a metaphor but a description of the actual process of spiritual formation. What are you most aware of needing to 'put off' right now? What would 'putting on' its replacement look like?
a.What specific practices or habits might help you 'put off' that pattern?
b.What specific practices or habits might help you 'put on' what should replace it?