Eternal Living: Reflections on Dallas Willard's Teaching for Faith and Formation

Dallas Willard dedicated his life to making the concept of eternal living tangible for his friends. Following his unexpected passing in 2013, the kaleidoscope of memories and the diverse lives he had touched could not be confined to a single memorial service, but rather spanned three. It was this far-reaching impact that inspired friends, family, colleagues, students, and church leaders to share their reflections on this celebrated yet humble theologian and philosopher.

Curated by Willard's longtime colleague and friend, Gary Moon, this medley of memories and "Dallas-isms" aims to move and motivate listeners towards deeper experiences of God, through the sharing of stories from the lives of the writers. Whether influenced by him as a family member, close friend, advisor, professor, philosopher, minister, or reformer, contributors bring refreshing insight not only into his ideas and what shaped him, but also his contagious theology of grace and joy.

Among the contributors are renowned figures such as Richard J. Foster, Jane Willard, J. P. Moreland, John Ortberg, James Bryan Smith, Alan Fadling, and Ruth Haley Barton, alongside dozens more. Each writer offers a unique perspective, painting a multifaceted portrait of a man whose life and teachings had a profound impact on those around him.

The stories shared within this collection provide a window into Willard's unwavering commitment to living out his faith, his intellectual prowess, and his genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others. Readers will be inspired by his ability to seamlessly integrate deep theological concepts into everyday life, guiding individuals towards a more intimate relationship with the divine.

Willard's influence extended far beyond the academic realm, as evidenced by the diverse backgrounds of the contributors. From family members who witnessed his unconditional love, to colleagues who admired his dedication to philosophy and theology, to students who were captivated by his transformative teaching, each account offers a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of this remarkable individual.

Through this collection, the lasting impact of Dallas Willard's life and work is celebrated, and his legacy as a catalyst for deeper spiritual exploration is preserved. By sharing these personal narratives, the book invites readers to embark on their own journey of discovery, inspired by the wisdom and insights of a man who dedicated his life to cultivating a more meaningful and fulfilling relationship with the divine.

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