Sublime

A framework that focuses on practices allows us to see issues in congregational and community life from a different angle

Communities in which we grow and flourish, however, last over time and are built by people who are faithful to one another and committed to a shared purpose.

working with practices allows us to move beyond important but individually focused literature on spiritual formation so that we can also attend to the formation of good communities.

The winsome and life-giving character of Christian community is often accompanied by profound difficulties arising from disagreements and betrayals. Unless participants are prepared for the inevitable challenges, when difficulties develop, they will quickly become wary of moving toward deeper involvement in any church or community. The testimony of

Christian scholars are called to help the body of Christ live faithfully at these intersections.

Considering them as practices opens up the possibility of recognizing them as the relational dynamics of grace and truth — what grace and truth look like when they are embodied in community.

A combination of grace, fidelity, and truth makes communities safe enough for people to take the risks that are necessary for growth and transformation. That same combination makes it possible for groups to handle disagreements without being torn apart and to minister to the world in ways that are far greater than the sum of the individuals involve