discipleship

It is important to understand that the great spirits of humanity have been formed by other great spirits. Aristotle, for example, discipled Alexander the Great, shaping not only his mind but also his vision of leadership. In a similar way, Marcus Aurelius studied the teachings of Epictetus through his masters. There are many other examples of great individuals who were shaped by the influence of others: Saint Augustine, Jean Calvin, C.S. Lewis, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer are just a few whose spiritual journeys clearly show the impact of intentional discipleship. Their lives remind us that spiritual depth is often the result of guidance, learning, and formation passed on from one generation to the next.

One of the ways we place ourselves under such formative influence is through what—and whom—we choose to read. Reading the right authors also helps the mind stay fit. When we stop fantasizing and turn to serious writers—reading that requires effort and attention—we train the brain much like daily exercise keeps the body and muscles in shape.