Institute for Spiritual Formation
Formation for the Care of Souls
At the Institute for Spiritual Formation (ISF), we believe spiritual formation is not a self-improvement project, but the Spirit’s work of transformation into the likeness of Christ. In a culture of hurry, striving and distraction, ISF invites you into a deeper way — a way of abiding in Jesus through grace, community and life in the presence of God.
Whether you’re called to be a pastor, spiritual director, therapist or simply seek a deeper life in Christ, ISF offers a trusted path of spiritual formation. Our graduate programs and the Spiritual Formation Core provide not only theological education but formation in wisdom and love — for the sake of the church.
Spiritual Formation Degrees and Programs
Explore our theologically grounded, academically rigorous programs that integrate theology, psychology and spiritual practice — preparing you to live before the face of God and care for souls in the pain, brokenness and trials that life brings.
The care of souls is the art of all arts."
Why Study Spiritual Formation at Talbot?
What if seminary wasn’t just about what you know — but who you’re becoming? At Talbot’s Institute for Spiritual Formation, you will embark on more than a degree — it’s the journey of a lifetime. Through cohort-based learning, spiritual direction, retreats, therapy and coursework with expert faculty, you’ll experience the transforming work of the Spirit in community. Learn to abide in Christ, discern his presence, and be equipped to care for the souls of others from a place of spiritual depth and wholeness.
I love the community at Biola, particularly the ISF community, who have been an integral part of my seminary experience in growing in godliness and transparency. Additionally, the professors at Biola have been pivotal in my journey of faith, as they have imparted such deep wisdom and love to me in my formative years in ministry!
What I most value about Biola is its commitment to education through Jesus-centered formation. It is a place, foremost of education but also a place of healing through its Christ-centered view that we are of first importance children of God.
Spiritual Direction
At Talbot School of Theology, spiritual direction is central to our model of care. Led by trained spiritual directors, these one-on-one sessions create space to notice God’s movement in your life, deepen communion with Christ, and be lovingly guided on your spiritual journey. Spiritual direction is available to students, faculty, staff and the broader Biola University community.
Spiritual Formation Core
The Spiritual Formation Core curriculum is woven into every Talbot graduate program, inviting every Talbot student into a deeper journey of spiritual transformation. This series of courses is designed to form the whole person for a lifetime of faithful presence in ministry, work and everyday life.
Online Resources for Spiritual Formation
Formation isn’t confined to the classroom. Explore accessible resources — podcasts, courses and lectures — from ISF faculty and friends who have walked the slow, sacred road of spiritual formation.
Spiritual Formation Lecture Series
Listen to free lectures from ISF faculty members, as well scholars like Dallas Willard, Gary Moon, Larry Crabb, Ruth Haley Barton and more.
Biola LEARN Courses
Interested in studying spiritual formation, but not ready to commit to a degree? Choose from three not-for-credit courses priced at less than $15.
The Good Book Blog
Talbot’s faculty blog offers biblical perspectives and theological insights on a wide range of topics, including spiritual formation.
Spiritual Formation Podcast
Listen and subscribe to ISF professor Kyle Strobel's podcast, Spiritual Formation: An Invitation to Drawing Near.
Journal of Spiritual Formation and Soul Care
Explore scholarship, essays, book reviews and reflections on spiritual formation in ISF’s twice-annual, peer-reviewed journal.
The Journey
The Journey is ISF’s accessible formation pathway — a one-year, non-academic certificate program for individuals, churches and small groups. Rooted in Scripture, shaped by community and grounded in ISF’s proven model, The Journey helps everyday disciples slow down, abide and be spiritually formed for real life.
Meet Our Faculty
I am the vine, you are the branches; He who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
Contact Us
Institute for Spiritual Formation
- Phone: (562) 903-4888
- Email: isf@biola.edu
Arianna Kokol
Graduate Admissions Counselor
- Phone: (562) 903-4752
- Email: arianna.kokol@biola.edu