On this episode of theFormed.life Podcast, hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman are joined by Dr. Rebecca DeYoung, a professor of philosophy and renowned author, to dive deep into the ancient world of virtues and vices—and why they’re still wildly relevant for us today. Together, they explore how concepts like pride, envy, gluttony, and vainglory aren’t just relics of the past, but powerful forces that shape our character, relationships, and spiritual growth in the present.
Dr. DeYoung shares her own journey into the study of ethics and virtue theory, reflecting on how naming and understanding our “capital vices” can be the first step toward true transformation. The conversation highlights practical ways we can identify unhealthy patterns, intentionally pursue Christlike virtues, and invite God’s grace into our everyday lives. Whether you’re striving to break free from destructive habits or hoping to cultivate more humility, courage, or love, this conversation will challenge and encourage you with timeless wisdom and actionable insights for your faith journey.

Bio:
Rebecca DeYoung is a Professor of Philosophy at Calvin University, where she has taught for over two decades. Her research focuses on virtue ethics, the seven deadly sins, and spiritual formation, blending philosophical insight with Christian theological traditions. She is the author of several books, including Glittering Vices: A New Look at the Seven Deadly Sins and Their Remedies, which explores the relevance of ancient moral traditions for modern life. A sought-after speaker and writer, DeYoung contributes to various academic and spiritual formation communities, including Renovaré and the C.S. Lewis Institute. Her work is marked by a deep commitment to integrating intellectual rigor with spiritual growth.

Quotes:
The idea with spiritual disciplines is that you're intentionally engaging in practices of open handedness to the Spirit's transforming work. - Rebecca DeYoung

3 Main Takeaways:

1. Vices Aren’t Just Isolated Failures
Dr. DeYoung highlights that vices become dangerous when they form persistent “grooves” in our lives—habits or patterns that shape who we’re becoming, rather than just one-off mistakes.

2. True Growth Is About Spiritual Discipline, Not Just Self-Improvement
The path to overcoming vices isn’t about “bootstrapping” or self-powered virtue. Instead, it’s about practicing spiritual disciplines—open-handed, receptive practices that invite the Holy Spirit’s transforming work.

3. Virtues Lead Us Into Deeper Communion
The ultimate goal isn’t just personal perfection, but being drawn into deeper relationship and communion—with God and others. Cultivating virtues isn’t about earning love, but responding to the unconditional love we have already received.

Resources :
- Renovaré (spiritual formation resources)
- Conversatio.org (the fellowship of the Dallas Willard legacy)

Timestamps:
00:00 Descent from Virtue to Philosophy
04:07 Discovering 'Pusillanimity': Medieval Imposter Syndrome
07:15 "Protestant Views on Deadly Sins"
11:35 "Embrace Spiritual Disciplines"
15:37 "Self-Worth Through Habitual Lifestyles"
18:06 Exploring Vainglory and Other Vices
21:29 Confronting Sloth in Daily Life
25:05 Publicity Challenges Vulnerability and Growth
29:10 Money Management Anxiety
30:25 Overcoming Excessive Attachment
36:20 Gratitude as a Christian Virtue
37:31 Slow Living and Inner Peace
41:00 Vices of Self-Regard
44:20 Scarcity Mindset and Envy
48:31 Books, Skills, and Glacier Hikes

Hashtags:
#VirtuesAndVices #SpiritualFormation #Sanctification #ChristlikeCharacter #GlitteringVices #Vainglory #SpiritualDisciplines #ChristianVirtue #RebeccaDeYoung #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords:
Virtue, vice, seven deadly sins, capital vices, sanctification, spiritual growth, spiritual disciplines, character formation, pride, envy, sloth, vainglory, humility, courage, love, gratitude, wisdom, justice, temperance, greed, gluttony, self-help, spiritual formation, grace, Protestant theology, transformation, Christian ethics, Aquinas, church tradition, spiritual healing