Great Omission
The Great Omission emerged from Dallas Willard's decades of observing what he saw as a fundamental failure in contemporary Christianity: the church's systematic neglect of Jesus' command to make disciples. Writing as both philosopher and spiritual director, Willard collected these essays and talks to address what he considered the most pressing crisis facing modern Christianity—the reduction of the gospel to mere forgiveness of sins while abandoning the call to apprenticeship under Christ.
Willard's central argument cuts to the heart of evangelical practice: the church has made converts but failed to make disciples. He contends that genuine discipleship involves the transformation of the whole person through spiritual disciplines and practices that reshape character from the inside out. Rather than treating salvation as a one-time event focused solely on eternal destination, Willard insists that following Jesus means learning to live now as he would live if he were in our place. The book examines how spiritual disciplines—prayer, study, solitude, service—function not as legalistic requirements but as means of grace that open us to divine transformation. Willard demonstrates how these practices create space for the Holy Spirit to reshape our desires, thoughts, and automatic responses, gradually conforming us to Christ's character.
The work has continued to influence discussions about spiritual formation because Willard articulates a vision of discipleship that transcends denominational boundaries while remaining firmly grounded in classical Christian spirituality. His integration of philosophical rigor with practical wisdom has made complex theological concepts accessible to ordinary believers seeking deeper spiritual life. The book's emphasis on character transformation over behavioral modification has shaped contemporary approaches to Christian education and pastoral ministry.
Who should read this: Christians frustrated with superficial approaches to faith who desire substantial spiritual growth, and church leaders seeking to move their communities beyond mere church attendance toward authentic discipleship. Those satisfied with Christianity as fire insurance or looking for quick spiritual fixes will find Willard's call to patient, lifelong transformation challenging.