James W. Fowler’s Stages of Faith Development describes six stages of faith development that individuals may travel through throughout their lives. These stages are not linear, and individuals may move back and forth between them or experience them in a different order.

The first stage, intuitive-projective faith, is characterized by a childlike understanding of God and religious concepts. In this stage, individuals may form beliefs based on their own experiences and imagination.

The second stage, mythic-literal faith, is characterized by a more literal understanding of religious stories and teachings. In this stage, individuals may believe that the Bible is literally true and that God intervenes directly in their lives.

The third stage, synthetic-conventional faith, is characterized by a desire to conform to the beliefs of one’s religious community. In this stage, individuals may strive to live up to the expectations of others and may be less likely to question their faith.

The fourth stage, individuative-reflective faith, is characterized by a more personal and individual understanding of faith. In this stage, individuals may begin to question their religious beliefs and develop their own unique understanding of God.

The fifth stage, conjunctive faith, is characterized by a recognition of the different ways that people experience faith. In this stage, individuals may be more tolerant of other religious beliefs and may be able to see their own faith in a new light.

The sixth stage, universalizing faith, is characterized by a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. In this stage, individuals may experience a sense of unity with God and all creation.

It is important to note that these stages are not fixed or predetermined. Individuals may move through them at different paces and may even regress to an earlier stage at times. Additionally, not everyone will experience all six stages.

Some Christians may find that Fowler’s theory aligns well with their own understanding of faith development. They may see the stages as a helpful way to understand their own journey of faith and to appreciate the different ways that people experience faith. Others may find that the theory does not resonate with their own experiences or beliefs. They may feel that the stages are too linear or that they do not adequately capture the complexity of faith development.

Ultimately, whether or not Fowler’s theory is a good fit for a Christian worldview is a matter of personal opinion. There is no right or wrong answer.