The Compassion Renaissance

Dallas Willard’s Most Important Article -- "Discipleship: For Super-Christians Only" *** This major article from 1980 on the late 20 th century Protestantism’s fatal neglect to foster practical Jesus-following, or “discipleship.” 2718 words (9 minutes) Dallas Willard, “Discipleship: For Super-Christians Only?” Christianity Today, Oct. 10, 1980; Reprinted in : Dallas Willard, The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on Discipleship , 2006, Harper, pp. 3-17. *** The word "disciple" occurs 269 times in the New Testament. "Christian" is found three   times and was first introduced to refer precisely to the disciples – in a situation where it was no longer possible to regard them as a sect of the Jews (Acts 11:26). The New Testament is a book about disciples, by disciples, and for disciples of Jesus Christ. But the point is not merely verbal. What is more important is that the kind of life we see   in the earli...

  Why Compassion Cultivation Training Should Matter (a Lot) to Christians: 12 Reasons Richard K. Stephens June 15, 2022 816 words (plus notes) *** The scientific claims made in several of the 12 seasons are backed up in the endnotes. *** It is now recognized by neuroscientists that compassion is a learnable skill The purpose of Compassion cultivation training is neuroplastic. It is not meant to create temporary mental states but rather to “rewire” the brain so that it gains an enduring trait of compassion. According to neuroplasticity expert Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz, a Christian, the process involves action by the Holy Spirit. The trait of compassion can be built up with proper practice, but it can also atrophy from lack of maintenance. The reputation of Christianity suffers from widespread perceptions of hypocrisy and selfish un-Christlike salvation-centered religiosity. I know from personal experience that Elders, Deacons and even some Pastors of highly respected churches are...