About the book
Have you ever felt a tension between developing your internal spiritual life and the call to outward service in the world? Those of us who are more naturally activists risk becoming bitter, tired and burned out. Those of us who gravitate toward the contemplative life may struggle to connect our spirituality with the world around us. How do we allow the life of Jesus to flow through our whole bodies into our everyday lives?
This book is a result of how Tom Smith held these questions in tension, as Eugene H. Peterson reflects in his foreword:
\"There is a back story here that is helpful in understanding Tom Smith's fierce focus and energetic imagination. He grew up in South Africa during the years of apartheid. . . . He also was aware that the Rwanda genocide took place in a population mostly Christian. He became a pastor in a flourishing South African church and then came to North America. He experienced the temptation to degenerate church into a consumer program. . . . This book is a witness to what takes place when names trump numbers and stories with their accompanying metaphors keep relationships personal and prayerful.\"
Having Jesus in our hearts is not enough. Jesus calls us to a spirituality that involves our everyday actions and interactions with others and extends our sphere of influence. In this raw, honest, whole-life approach to Christian formation, Tom Smith introduces us into a \"rhythm of life\" that that brings flourishing to our personal spirituality that then extends to our service in the world.
Editions of Raw Spirituality
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780830835881
- EBook
- ISBN 9780830896523
Read an Excerpt
Have you ever felt a tension between developing your internal spiritual life and the call to outward service in the world? Those of us who are more naturally activists risk becoming bitter, tired and burned out. Those of us who gravitate toward the contemplative life may struggle to connect our spirituality with the world around us. How do we allow the life of Jesus to flow through our whole bodies into our everyday lives?
This book is a result of how Tom Smith held these questions in tension, as Eugene H. Peterson reflects in his foreword:
\"There is a back story here that is helpful in understanding Tom Smith's fierce focus and energetic imagination. He grew up in South Africa during the years of apartheid. . . . He also was aware that the Rwanda genocide took place in a population mostly Christian. He became a pastor in a flourishing South African church and then came to North America. He experienced the temptation to degenerate church into a consumer program. . . . This book is a witness to what takes place when names trump numbers and stories with their accompanying metaphors keep relationships personal and prayerful.\"
Having Jesus in our hearts is not enough. Jesus calls us to a spirituality that involves our everyday actions and interactions with others and extends our sphere of influence. In this raw, honest, whole-life approach to Christian formation, Tom Smith introduces us into a \"rhythm of life\" that that brings flourishing to our personal spirituality that then extends to our service in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Raw Spirituality about?
Have you ever felt a tension between developing your internal spiritual life and the call to outward service in the world? Those of us who are more naturally activists risk becoming bitter, tired and burned out. Those of us who gravitate toward the contemplative life may struggle to connect our spirituality with the world around us. How do we allow the life of Jesus to flow through our whole bodies into our everyday lives?
This book is a result of how Tom Smith held these questions in tension, as Eugene H. Peterson reflects in his foreword:
\"There is a back story here that is helpful in understanding Tom Smith's fierce focus and energetic imagination. He grew up in South Africa during the years of apartheid. . . . He also was aware that the Rwanda genocide took place in a population mostly Christian. He became a pastor in a flourishing South African church and then came to North America. He experienced the temptation to degenerate church into a consumer program. . . . This book is a witness to what takes place when names trump numbers and stories with their accompanying metaphors keep relationships personal and prayerful.\"
Having Jesus in our hearts is not enough. Jesus calls us to a spirituality that involves our everyday actions and interactions with others and extends our sphere of influence. In this raw, honest, whole-life approach to Christian formation, Tom Smith introduces us into a \"rhythm of life\" that that brings flourishing to our personal spirituality that then extends to our service in the world.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Raw Spirituality?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Christianity > Christian life and practice
Where can I read a sample of Raw Spirituality?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780830835881
Is Raw Spirituality part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series Renovare Resources
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Raw Spirituality?
Tom Smith
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Raw Spirituality is available as paperback(ISBN 9780830835881) and ebook(ISBN 9780830896523)
Where can I buy Raw Spirituality online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Raw Spirituality from below
Where can I buy Raw Spirituality?