This book casts a vision for Christian formation that is deeper, more integrated, and more holistic than what followers of Jesus often settle for. Villodas guides readers in recognizing the ways in which processes of human formation are already operative, whether acknowledged or not, and then draws upon existing values, rhythms, and practices within the Christian tradition that promise to foster and sustain transformation in the context of Christian discipleship.

This book provides a historical overview of Christian beliefs and practices surrounding parenting and child-rearing in America, from the colonial era to the late 19th Century (to be more specific, the book covers the years 1620-1890). Through an examination of numerous primary source documents that focus on providing advice and instruction to Christian parents, the author discovers various models and postures that take center stage during particular eras, reflecting shifting and evolving views of the role of the parent and the ideal approach to child-rearing within the Christian tradition. Setran’s work offers an illuminating glimpse into the diversity of Christian perspectives on this subject, even in relatively recent history, in ways that can help contemporary Christian parents situate their own context historically, while also garnering wisdom and insight from the past.

Spirit of the Disciplines emphasizes the underlying goal of sanctification that animates specific practices associated with spiritual discipline, as well as the dynamics of human flourishing and transformation to which they contribute. Along similar lines, Renovation of the Heart emphasizes the holistic dynamics of Christian character formation that specific disciplines and practices are intended to cultivate.

This edited volume provides a useful introduction to a network of approaches to contemporary theological discourse that seek to be child-centric, or to place children at the center of theological reflection. As the subtitle indicates, the contributors reflect a variety of distinct approaches; however, they also share an expectation that intentionally foregrounding the nature and experience of childhood and children promises to yield fresh and valuable insights into central Christian beliefs and practices.

Widely recognized as a modern classic in the area of Christian discipleship and spiritual formation, Foster’s book focuses on personal, inward practices such as prayer and fasting, as well as public and communal disciplines such as gathered worship and corporate confession. The author’s emphasis is on recognizing the value of spiritual disciplines not as legalistic requirements to be grudgingly performed but rather as good gifts to be celebrated for their role in facilitating Christian formation.