The Deeply Formed Life

Five Transformative Values to Root Us in the Way of Jesus

By: Rich Villodas, Pete Scazzero - introduction

Narrated by: Rich Villodas

During our chaotic times, discover five forgotten values that can spark internal growth and help us reconcile our Christian faith with the complexities of race, sexuality, and social justice.

WINNER OF THE CHRISTIANITY TODAY BOOK AWARD

Most believers live in the state of “being a Christian” without ever being deeply formed by Christ. Our pace is too frenetic to be in union with God, and we don’t know how to quiet our hearts and minds to be present. Our emotions are unhealthy and compartmentalized. We feel unable to love well or live differently from the rest of the world—to live as people of the good news.

New York pastor Rich Villodas says we must restore balance, focus, and meaning for our souls. The Deeply Formed Life lays out a fresh vision for spiritual breakthrough following five key values:

• Contemplative Rhythms Value: slowing down our lives to be with God.
• Racial Justice Value: examining a multi-layered approach to pursuing racial justice and reconciliation.
• Interior Examination Value: looking beneath the surface of our lives to live free and love well.
• Sexual Wholeness Value: exploring how our sexuality connects with our spirituality.
• Missional Presence Value: living as the presence of Christ in a broken world.

The Deeply Formed Life is a roadmap to live in the richly rooted place we all yearn for: a place of communion with God, a place where we find our purpose.

Praise for The Deeply Formed Life

“The Deeply Formed Life is a book for our time. Honest, wise, insightful, funny, and—above all—deep. The way Rich and New Life Fellowship hold emotional health and racial justice together is beyond inspiring. This is spiritual formation for the future of the church.”—John Mark Comer, pastor of teaching and vision at Bridgetown Church and author of The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

“I’ve studied the Bible under Pastor Rich’s leadership for close to a decade. The core values he shares in this book serve as guidance, not only for how we should live as Christians in an ever-changing world but also for how we can live a life of purpose—that consistently and enthusiastically points to Jesus.”—Susan Kelechi Watson, actress from the awardwinning television series This Is Us

Life. Changing.

Clarity, love, truth, and sound guidance! Pastor Rich keeps it SO REAL and addresses the very core of certain issues with such sincerity and transparency and truth that not only will you understand what you once couldn’t articulate, but you will instantly be set free and ignited.

Gracefully correcting

This is a viral read for all proclaiming Christian’s. Rich V. hits all the unmentionables that have led to the Churches lack of power and integrity. It’s a wonderful call to action with verbiage and steps to much needed change.

An exceptional work

Pastor Rich invites us on a journey of hard, reflective, introspective and outer work toward wholeness in Christ. A thoughtful piece that kept me engaged and mindful the entire time. Tackling difficult and often taboo topics like sexuality and racial reconciliation, Rich maneuvers it with a mild mannered yet bold approach. Challenged to go deeper, give more, and think of myself less, I was blessed by this book. I encourage every believer, new converts and seasoned veterans alike, to give this book space on your bookshelf. You’ll come back several times for sure.

Good Antidotes for Superficial Christianity

This book was a great read. It constantly invites the reader into a place of wise vulnerability with Jesus and His people. I didn't agree with everything stated, but that's not the point. It's a powerful perspective and helpmate for pursuing a life after Jesus.

Wow!

This book was insightful, eye opening, refining, and helps you take a deep look at yourself, others, and your faith. This need challenges you to grow in a way that mirrors the vision Christ has for His followers.