Temple of the Spirit: BFG Handbook Chapter 21 Igniting the New Evangelization
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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-21-temple-of-the-spirit/
The boundaries between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions dissolve in this fascinating exploration of "Temple of the Spirit," a chapter from the Christian adaptation of the Tao Te Ching. We unpack the profound paradox at the heart of this text—how divine mystery takes tangible form while remaining ultimately unfathomable.
At the core of our discussion is the relationship between God's Spirit and Word, examining how something "indefinable" can simultaneously contain "form, substance, and spirit." This paradox points directly to the incarnation, where infinite divinity took finite human form. We explore the surprising concept that the Spirit itself contains faith, acting not just as divine presence but as the active generator of belief within the human heart.
The episode introduces the transformative MAP method—Mindset, Aim, Practice—a structured approach to spiritual renewal. We break down each component, from the six foundational mindsets (including following God's word alone and embracing divine mystery) to their corresponding aims and practical applications. This framework offers a comprehensive path for spiritual growth that balances belief, intention, and action in everyday life.
Most compelling is our examination of shared spiritual principles across religious boundaries. We identify surprising common ground between Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—not to minimize theological differences, but to recognize universal human experiences of the divine. From acknowledging the limits of understanding to recognizing inner divine presence to prioritizing spiritual over worldly values, these shared insights suggest deeper unified truths beneath diverse expressions of faith.
Whether you're spiritually curious or deeply committed to a particular tradition, this episode invites you to consider how the concept of divine indwelling might transform your perspective. How might recognizing the Spirit's presence within you reshape your understanding of yourself and your place in the world? Which of these spiritual principles resonates most with your own journey?
Chapters
1. Introduction to Temple of the Spirit (00:00:00)
2. The Spirit and the Word Explored (00:01:33)
3. The MAP Method Explained (00:05:30)
4. Finding Common Ground Across Faiths (00:11:00)
5. Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts (00:14:10)
42 episodes