Opening the Window of Faith: Episode 1

I am intrigued by how many writers on discipleship and spiritual growth address the subject while still in the first half of their lives. For me, the most instructive authors are those who wrote toward the end of their journeys. Early in my life, I asked, “How do we make disciples behave like followers of Christ?” Now, I ask, “How do we transform their hearts, knowing that behavior will follow?”

Over the past several years, I have deeply reflected on this topic, shaped by three key factors (in addition to working on four separate assessment instruments on the subject): 1) Observing churches, pastors, and Christians navigate Covid, 2) Insights from thinkers outside the church, and 3) Insights from thinkers inside the church.

I’ve realized that Christ-followers have a window—one that can remain open to God’s teaching or be closed by a lack of curiosity in faith. Some keep their windows open for a lifetime, growing deeper in their understanding of God. Others gradually close their windows, becoming rigid, bitter, or complacent. They consume spiritually but stop short of transformation.

Too often, I see Christians closing their windows, and I believe many churches unintentionally encourage this through their programming and priorities. In this series of Thursday Thoughts, I will explore how each of these three factors has shaped my thinking. Below is a brief overview:

Observing Churches, Pastors, & Christians Navigate Covid

Having lived through wars, pandemics, and social, cultural, and economic crises, I believe the most pressing danger to the church is not external threats but the overwhelming presence of anxiety. Fear has caused many to close their windows to faith, reacting in ways that do not reflect the historical resilience of Christ-followers. Instead of serving, many withdrew, polarized, and reacted in fear. The past few years have revealed how deeply embedded anxiety has become in the church, shutting many off from God’s work.

Good Thinkers Outside the Church

Recent research has changed how we understand the connection between the brain, mind, and body. Studies now confirm that chronic stress and trauma alter brain function, even at the chromosomal level. However, those who maintain spiritual practices—such as meditating on Scripture, maintaining healthy relationships, and prioritizing physical health—are better equipped to regulate themselves and serve others. This aligns with what Christian thinkers have long understood: spiritual health deeply impacts mental and physical well-being.

Good Thinkers Inside the Church

Consumer Christianity has become the norm in many U.S. churches. Churches often focus on keeping people engaged with doctrine, worship, entertainment, exegesis, social action, and relevance. While none of these are inherently wrong, they often become ends in themselves rather than tools for heart transformation. The result? Churches produce consumers rather than disciples—people focused on meeting personal needs rather than being transformed by the love of God and love for others. If we evaluated the church based on its ability to make true disciples, the results would be troubling.

For most Christ-followers, this shift has not been intentional, nor are they entirely unaware. It has been a slow-growing subculture that has now become the norm. Yet, for those willing to look, the signs are clear.

PS: I realize some of these reflections are challenging. Over the next three episodes, I will expand on these ideas—but I welcome your thoughts in the comments.

Read more of my thoughts on faith, leadership, and assessments at the Healthy Growing Leaders site.