The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard
Week 10: Chapter 9 — A Curriculum for Christlikeness
Read Chapter 9 of The Spirit of the Disciplines. Key Scripture: Colossians 1:28–29; Ephesians 4:11–16.
Previewing Week 10 of The Spirit of the Disciplines
Read 3 of 6 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 12-week guide when you’re ready.
Willard now turns to the church's responsibility — arguing that the local church should be a school of formation, not merely a weekly event, and proposing what a curriculum for Christlikeness might look like.
Discussion Questions
6 questions1.Willard's phrase 'curriculum for Christlikeness' is provocative — it implies that becoming like Jesus is something that can be taught, structured, and progressively developed, not just hoped for or prayed about. Does this idea excite you or make you uneasy? Why?
2.He argues that the primary failure of the church is not immorality or false doctrine but the failure to disciple — to actually help people become like Jesus. Paul's goal in Colossians 1:28–29 was to 'present everyone mature in Christ.' Is maturity in Christ a stated goal of your church? What concrete steps does your church take to pursue it?
3.Willard distinguishes between attending church and being formed by a community of disciples. What practices, structures, and expectations would need to change in your church for it to become a genuine school of formation?
a.What is your church doing well in this regard?
b.What is missing, and what would it take to add it?