T
he different spiritual styles encompass both overlapping and non-overlapping areas of concern. I tried to communicate this reality in the diagram on page 81. In this graphic I have reduced the representation to just three styles. If we charted all nine styles into this diagram, we would see that the intersections among the individual styles differ in size. Neighboring styles have a relatively large overlap with one another; opposite styles only overlap in a very small area.
The point of this graphic is to demonstrate that the very things that are perceived as “central” (i.e. as indispensably important), are always outside of any overlap with other styles. From the viewpoint of the individual styles—and the spiritual traditions that are based on them—it is not true that the differences between styles take place at the periphery, and the similarities are found “at the center.”
It is just the other way around. The differences are at the center of each given style, and the overlaps are found at the periphery. This is due to the fact that what is regarded as “central” is not positioned in the middle of the compass (and thus possibly outside of one‘s own comfort zone), but in the middle of one‘s own spirituality. However, most people are honestly convinced that their center is “the center of the Christian faith.” This dynamic is important to understand for any interaction between spiritual styles.
For the sake of visual clarity, I have displayed only three of the nine spiritual styles. This graphic reveals that all styles have certain areas of overlap, but that the areas of overlap don‘t include the centers of the respective styles (yellow dots). When we are at the center of a style, we feel separated from the others. There is only common ground in areas that are located at the edges of our respective paradigms. This is an extremely important insight for interacting with other spiritual styles, spiritual traditions, or denominations.
Think of some Christians or Christian groups with whom you have difficultly relating. What would it take for you to actively engage with them?
Further topics in the above chapter of the full version of the book
Why the usual approach to ecumenism doesn't work - Does Christ unite us? - How is cooperation possible? - Misunderstanding of the spiritual styles - Common ingredient 1: Prayer and worship - Common ingredient 2: Learning from Scripture - Common ingredient 3: Addressing sin and forgiveness - Common ingredient 4: Humility - Common ingredient 5: Growing in passion