A rule of life for the modern era
We are shaped by an ancient practice, used by communities of Jesus followers for nearly 2000 years, called a Rule of Life. The meaning of Rule comes from the Greek word for trellis; a tool designed to enable a grapevine to get off the ground and grow upward, to become more fruitful and productive.
In the same way, a Rule of Life is a schedule and set of practices and relational rhythms that create space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did. It is how we intend to live out our beliefs and our convictions.
It’s been said that we achieve inner peace when our schedule is aligned with our values. A rule of life is simply a tool to that end. Rather than a rigid, legalistic to-do list, it’s a life-giving structure for freedom, growth, and joy.
A rule of life is how we practice the way of Jesus, together.
“A good rule can set us free to be our true and best selves. It is a working document, a kind of spiritual budget, not carved in stone but subject to regular review and revision. It should support us, but never constrict us.”
Margaret Guenther
Wife, Mother, & Anglican Priest
Love the Lord with all your soul.
Every church tradition and generation emphasizes its own rule of life, even if they don’t use that language. For us, there are nine spiritual practices we think are essential to following Jesus in our place and time. These core Practices work together to form a trellis for Eden Church that support our entire community. They are our shared, sacred rhythms.
For Jesus, apprenticeship to Him is to bring your whole person or “soul” (nephesh in Hebrew) to God. The “soul” in the Scriptures is the integrating center of your humanity, material and immaterial: your will, mind, emotions, body, and relationships. The workbook below is an attempt to apply our shared practices to the various life categories that make up your whole person.
Abiding
Mind
Body
Relationships
Rest
Work & Money
Gospel & Hospitality
Tip: check out the further resources section for more help on applying each practice to your rule of life workbook.
Further Resources
A self-assessment tool designed to help you gauge your inner life with God and the person you are becoming in Christ.
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
The following are resources to help you apply emotionally healthy principles to your rule of life.
Resources coming soon