Attachment and Spiritual Maturity 11
Chapter Two
Literature Review
Introduction In response to the question of the relationship between a history of secure
attachment and seminary students' spiritual maturity, this chapter explores the literature
in both ofthese two areas. It will begin with building the theological foundations of
spiritual maturity with the use of scripture and theological literature. Psychological
foundations of relational maturity with a focus on attachment theory are discussed. An
integration of spiritual and relational maturity is described and theoretical hypotheses
offered.
The Theological Foundations of Spiritual Maturity
Human beings were created to be in relationship with each other and with God.
Scripture confirms this connection in Matthew declaring the human need to be reconciled
in their relationships with others before presenting offerings to God (Matthew 5:24).
Matthew also reports there is a warning to forgive others if the desire is for God to
forgive one's sins. These passages show how interrelated human relationships are with a
relationship to God. This interrelatedness will be explored first by examining the
foundations of personhood. Relationship is the Foundation of Personhood Spiritual maturity begins with the capacity for relationship. Each person receives
this capacity by being created in the image ofGod. God is triune; namely, three persons
in one, therefore relational (Genesis 1:26-27). This image into which all persons are
created describes how humans are like their creator.
Humans are like God and represent Him in a way unlike any other part of
creation. Wilkins ( 1997), suggests five ways humans are distinct from other creatures.
Mentally, humans have the God-given ability to relate to God. Morally, humans are holy
and righteous like God when their behavior conforms to His standards. Spiritually,
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker