True Spirituality (Schaeffer)

"The cross of Christ is to be a reality to me not only once for all at my conversion, but all through my life as a Christian." — Francis Schaeffer

Many people ask the question What does it mean to be spiritual? To renowned Christian philosopher Francis Schaeffer, true spirituality was not a mechanical process like some sort of to-do list, but an active experience informed by the truth of what God has said in his word. Through the pages of this book, a new generation of readers will uncover what true spirituality is and how to experience it in their own lives—moment-by-moment communion with God himself, grounded in Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Table of Contents: 

Section 1: Freedom Now from the Bonds of Sin
Basic Considerations of True Spirituality
Chapter 1: The Law and the Law of Love
Chapter 2: The Centrality of Death
Chapter 3: Through Death to Resurrection
Chapter 4: In the Spirit’s Power
Biblical Unity and True Spirituality
Chapter 5: The Supernatural Universe
Chapter 6: Salvation: Past–Future–Present
Moment-by-Moment Practice of True Spirituality
Chapter 7: The Fruitful Bride

Section 2: Freedom Now from the Results of the Bonds of Sin
Man’s Separation from Himself
Chapter 8: Freedom from Conscience
Chapter 9: Freedom in the Thought-Life
Chapter 10: Substantial Healing of Psychological Problems
Chapter 11: Substantial Healing of the Total Person
Man’s Separation from His Fellow Man
Chapter 12: Substantial Healing in Personal Relationships
Chapter 13: Substantial Healing in the Church

Author

Francis A. Schaeffer (1912–1984) authored more than twenty books, which have been translated into several languages and have sold millions globally. He and his wife, Edith, founded the L'Abri Fellowship international study and discipleship centers. Recognized internationally for his work in Christianity and culture, Schaeffer passed away in 1984 but his influence and legacy continue worldwide.

Endorsements

“It was my privilege to live with Francis Schaeffer for three years. Again and again, he said that of all his many books, this was his favorite. It dealt with the bedrock reality of his faith. In a day when the church is weakened by shallowness, compromise, and worldliness, reality is our issue too. No book is more relevant.” - Os Guinness, author, The Call

“The person and work of Francis Schaeffer had a nearly measureless influence on generations of people—believers and unbelievers alike. As he himself proclaimed, his views on Christian spirituality were the basis of everything important he ever did. In this new edition, Crossway has made the seminal text available once again. These pages are as fresh and compelling today as they were when they were first penned. Schaeffer’s approach to what we call sanctification will repay the reader with a deeper and more consistent walk. Everyone should have a copy and be blessed by the contents.” - William Edgar, Professor of Apologetics, Westminster Theological Seminary; author, Schaeffer on the Christian Life

“If it’s time for a new round of Francis Schaeffer thinking in evangelical circles, here is a good place to start. It’s helpful to remember that the Schaeffers first went to Europe to minister to children. True Spirituality takes us back to the basics that were crucial to their profound later work.” - Joel Belz, Founder, WORLD magazine

“Francis Schaeffer has taught us that true spirituality is lived in the present moment by real people among real people—no veneer, no varnish. For all those who want to know how to live as a Christian in our present moment, you will find here timeless and timely theological and biblical wisdom for everyday life. This book has already helped one generation—may it be used to serve another.” - Stephen J. Nichols, President, Reformation Bible College; Chief Academic Officer, Ligonier Ministries

“This new edition of True Spirituality is timely and refreshing. Almost fifty years after Francis Schaeffer first published his deep understanding of the Scripture’s answers to basic human questions about existence, it encourages us by its invitation to an intimate and intellectually honest life under God. Spirituality, rather than intimating withdrawal from life and critical thinking in the material world, suggests an honest embrace of life under the twofold directions of God’s Holy Spirit—promised to comfort, inform, and empower—and our own discerning spirit and mind in order to become informed, honest, and generous people. Belief in God’s real existence, in our true humanity, and in a purposeful history makes the practice of moral clarity—courageous objections to material and social evil—the true spirituality and thus fulfills the command to love God and our neighbor with all our hearts, minds, and souls.” - Udo W. Middelmann, President, Francis A. Schaeffer Foundation; author, The Finished Work of Christ