A Magnificent Journey Into the Heart of God

The Magnificent Journey
Living Deep in the Kingdom
(IVP, 2018)

WHO: James Bryan Smith, director of the Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation and a professor at Friends University.

HE SAYS: “We cannot enter into the kingdom unless we take up the cross. The cross leads to the magnificent journey of living in the unshakable kingdom of God. It is the unavoidable prerequisite.”

THE BIG IDEA: Complete with exercises and reflection questions, this book is designed to be used in the context of a community, and introduces us to new spiritual practices that will provide the sustenance we need for the deepest, most joy-filled journey of our lives—the journey into the heart of God.

THE PROGRESSION:
The book is divided into two parts. Part 1, “Living Deep in the Kingdom,” discusses spiritual formation in the way of surrender, growing in grace, living from above and listening to God.
In Part 2, “Developing Kingdom Virtues,” the author explores relaxing into faith, embracing hope, discovering a deeper joy and being surprised by love.

“The world is waiting to see Christians live with the joy of Jesus. Once they see it, they will want it. In addition to making our lives vibrant, joy is our most effective means of evangelism.”

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James Bryan Smith
James Bryan Smith

James Bryan Smith is the author of The Good and Beautiful God and the Apprentice series. He is a theology professor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. He also serves as the director of the Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation at Friends University, and is a founding member of Richard J. Foster’s spiritual renewal ministry, Renovaré.

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