Eugene Peterson’s A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society offers a profound exploration of Christian discipleship in a world obsessed with instant gratification. This study guide provides a deeper understanding of Peterson’s insights, encouraging a sustained commitment to faith.
The relentless pace of modern life often undermines spiritual growth. We are bombarded with immediate access to information, entertainment, and fleeting pleasures, fostering a “hurry sickness” that hinders our ability to cultivate a meaningful relationship with God. Peterson challenges this paradigm, advocating for a patient, persistent approach to discipleship.
The Problem of Hurry and Instant Gratification
Dallas Willard’s quote, “You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life,” sets the stage for Peterson’s argument. In a society defined by immediacy, the Christian life is often reduced to a series of fleeting experiences and superficial engagements. Peterson critiques the tendency to chase the latest trends and innovations, such as “Zen, faith healing, human potential, parapsychology, successful living,” instead of embracing the slow, steady work of discipleship.
Person reading a book outdoors, symbolizing contemplation and a break from the digital world.
He contrasts the “tourist” mentality, which seeks quick and easy experiences, with the “pilgrim” mentality, which embraces the journey of faith as a lifelong apprenticeship to Jesus. This contrast highlights the need for a fundamental shift in perspective, moving away from the pursuit of instant gratification and towards a long-term commitment to spiritual growth.
Nietzsche and the Songs of Ascent
Peterson draws inspiration from Friedrich Nietzsche, who recognized the value of “a long obedience in the same direction.” While Nietzsche’s philosophy may seem at odds with Christian thought, Peterson seizes upon this insight to underscore the importance of perseverance in the pursuit of any worthwhile goal.
To illustrate this principle, Peterson uses the Songs of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) as a guide for Christian discipleship. These Psalms, sung by Hebrew pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem, offer timeless wisdom on themes such as repentance, providence, worship, help, joy, work, and community. Each chapter of Peterson’s book explores a different Song of Ascent, providing practical meditations for the journey of faith.
Blessing as the Journey’s End and Beginning
Psalm 134, the final Song of Ascent, focuses on the theme of blessing. Peterson argues that blessing is not merely the reward at the end of the journey, but also the guiding force that shapes the entire process of discipleship. Quoting Catherine of Siena, he reminds us that “All the way to heaven is heaven,” emphasizing the importance of recognizing God’s presence and grace in every moment.
This perspective challenges the “hurry sickness” that plagues modern society, encouraging us to slow down, pay attention, and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the blessings that surround us. By focusing on blessing, we can train our eyes to see God’s hand at work in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for future rewards.
Livable Discipleship in an Ordinary World
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emphasis on livable discipleship. Peterson acknowledges the pressures of a culture that celebrates success, wealth, and beauty, leaving many feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. He offers a refreshing alternative, reminding us that God’s grace is sufficient for our weaknesses and that true discipleship is not about achieving perfection, but about persevering in faith.
Peterson gives us “permission” to embrace our humanity, to acknowledge our struggles, and to trust in God’s provision. He reminds us that we don’t have to attain salvation on our own, but that God is actively working in our lives to bring us closer to Him. This message of grace and acceptance is particularly relevant in a world that often feels judgmental and demanding.
A Call to Long Obedience
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction is not a quick fix or a self-help manual. It’s a call to embrace the slow, steady work of discipleship, to cultivate a patient and persistent faith, and to find joy in the ordinary moments of life. Peterson’s book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God and to resist the pressures of an instant society. It encourages us to prioritize faithfulness over fleeting experiences, to embrace the journey of faith as a lifelong adventure, and to discover the blessings that await us along the way. This book offers a pathway to living well in the ordinary, finding God’s presence in the midst of our daily lives. This is truly a life-giving and livable approach to Christian living.
