The Glorious Pursuit: Becoming Who God Created Us to Be

by Gary Thomas

Overview

A Life-Changing Book on Christian Virtues from the Author of Sacred Marriage
“When we practice the virtues of Christ,” writes bestselling author Gary Thomas, “we become who God created us to be.” In this classic book of spiritual formation, we encounter true discipleship—the life we were made for—by observing Jesus in his daily life: his interactions with the people around him, his reactions and responses to spiritual warfare, his thoughtful engagement of complicated questions about faith and profound temptations. Jesus embodied the virtues that God has invited us all to cultivate. This book becomes instrumental to our spiritual growth.

There aren’t a lot of books that focus squarely on classical Christian virtues; those that do often approach the topic in a scholarly, detached fashion. Gary Thomas has a deep concern for the spiritual vitality of his audience, and that concern comes through in this book.

Gary Thomas is one of the most celebrated writers on spiritual formation, with beloved books sitting alongside other contemporary classics by authors such as Dallas Willard, James Bryan Smith, and Richard Foster. In his distinct style, he provides a heartfelt survey of humility, chastity, generosity, patience, perseverance, and more, as demonstrated in the life of Jesus. These virtues are for us, and this book draws lines from our lived experience to the lived experience of Christ, and back to us, pointing the way to a more vibrant faith and a more fulfilling life.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781641582841
Publisher:	Tyndale House Publishers
Publication date:	12/08/2020
Pages:	256
Sales rank:	1,108,032
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.10(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Gary Thomas is a bestselling author and international speaker whose ministry brings people closer to Christ and closer to others. He unites the study of Scripture, church history, and the Christian classics to foster spiritual growth and deeper relationships within the Christian community. He is the author of Sacred Marriage, Sacred Pathways, and When to Walk Away.

Table of Contents

Introduction to the New Edition 1

Chapter 1 Getting Your Life Back 5

Chapter 2 The Holy Bridge 15

Chapter 3 The Glorious Pursuit 27

Chapter 4 Living Where You Are: Humility, Part One 39

Chapter 5 The Beautiful Spirit: Humility, Part Two 51

Chapter 6 Resting in the Current: Surrender 63

Chapter 7 Freedom from Within: Detachment 75

Chapter 8 The Energy of Your Soul: Love 89

Chapter 9 Safe Relationships: Chastity 101

Chapter 10 Positive Possession: Generosity 119

Chapter 11 Awakened Living: Vigilance 129

Chapter 12 Realistic Expectations: Patience 139

Chapter 13 Pure Perception: Discernment 147

Chapter 14 Exuberant Living: Thankfulness 159

Chapter 15 Caressing Life: Gentleness 171

Chapter 16 Courageous Living: Fortitude 181

Chapter 17 Enlarged Living: Obedience 191

Chapter 18 The Renewal of Faith: Penitence 203

Afterword 215

Questions for Reflection and Discussion 219

Notes 229

About the Author 239

What People are Saying About This

Eager, unsentimental, and down-to-earth, The Glorious Pursuit is a fine account of what it means to mature in Christ.

J. I. Packer

Eager, unsentimental, and down-to-earth, The Glorious Pursuit is a fine account of what it means to mature in Christ.

Gordon D. Fee

In a culture of pop religion and instant everything—including Christianity—this call for growth in the Christian life by pursuit of the classic Christian virtues is in itself a virtue. Gary Thomas has put believers in his debt by not only calling attention to the importance of the virtues but also describing them in everyday language and offering practical suggestions for growing in them. A valuable book.

George Grant

When Gary Thomas embarked on his pursuit of the classical Christian virtues, he began a journey that benefited us all. He points us toward our own glorious pursuit and affords us this be-guiling, provocative, and deeply satisfying book as our guide.

Stephen A. Macchia

If a deeper walk with God is your goal, then the glorious pursuit of an abundant Christian life is what you share with Gary Thomas. In this book, Gary helps you understand ancient, biblical, and God-centered virtues, bringing them to life, untainted yet contextualized appropriately for our modern age. Dive into this text—but keep your eyes wide open for the fullest possible exploration!