Whitney frequently draws on Puritan writers such as John Owen and Richard Baxter. What Puritan theological emphases are most evident in Whitney’s treatment of the disciplines?

Compare Whitney’s presentation of the spiritual disciplines with Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline. In what ways do their emphases overlap, and where do they diverge?

Consider the book’s structure. Why does Whitney order the disciplines as he does?

How does Whitney’s evangelical approach to the disciplines differ from Catholic or Orthodox traditions of spiritual formation (e.g., Ignatian exercises, monastic practices)? What might evangelicals learn from those traditions?

In light of Whitney’s emphasis on Scripture intake (reading, meditation, memorization) as the absolute foundation for spiritual practice, how does his work resonate with or differ from current movements in spiritual formation that give priority to contemplative silence and stillness?

Consider the communal dimensions of Whitney’s book (worship, fellowship, serving). How does his approach balance personal spiritual growth with the corporate life of the church?

How does Whitney’s understanding of sanctification—growth through disciplined practice under the Spirit’s power—compare with biblical teaching on grace and effort?

Fasting is often neglected in modern evangelical practice. How does Whitney’s theological rationale for fasting challenge contemporary assumptions about spirituality and bodily life?