A great problem in Christian education is we stop at doctrine. We stop at knowledge. It is embarrassing to watch church leaders tout knowledge and correct doctrine… and then use it as a hammer in the lives of other people. It becomes their source of pride and the root of their action. Their action, however, is about hammering the knowledge they have into others.

Dallas Willard would add to what is after knowledge: character formation. It is a truth we need grounded in our lives:

Knowledge is not enough. We cannot stop with right doctrine.

Right belief and right doctrine must be expressed in thought, decision and action. We walk in character formation. It is beyond consumer Christianity. The goal is to become like Christ. You take on Christ in his thoughts, his beliefs, and his judgments. You feel as he did. You act as he did. It is a lifelong process.

Willard gives four reminders:

1. Remember who you are. You are an unceasing spiritual being with an eternal destiny in God’s great universe.
2. Remember to keep God before your mind. “I keep the Lord in mind always. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Ps. 16:8)
3. Remember to live sacrificially. Don’t strive to advance yourself. Let God advance you.
4. Remember you need a plan of discipline. Remember to put in the disciplines in your calendar. Let Christ and his character GROW in you.

(Adapted from Renewing the Christian Mind)