christian psychologist regarding the insufficiency of scripture for counseling

Christians who relyto one degree or They hold to the primacy of Scripture, but deny it in many of their works by reading into Scripture certain psychological terms, concepts and theories. Roberts notes, Christian psychology insists on the priority of a deep knowledge of the psychology that is distinctive of Christianity as a prerequisite to the integration of modern professional and scientific psychologies into Christian thought and practice. Roberts,Five Views, 136. An appreciation of differences nourishes a godly disenculturation from the assumptions of ego- and ethno-centricity. The social, cultural, historical, and individual differences between Hebrew herdsmen and Corinthian cosmopolitansand between both of them and contemporary American readerscan hardly be exaggerated. It buries significant clarities that the Bible provides beneath superficial ambiguities that psychology attempts to explain. Christian psychologists prefer to do their own research based on a distinctly Christian psychology and methodology, while integrationists believe that much of secular psychology can be redeemed for Christian counseling purposes.19Ibid., 134. CP desires to develop a unique Christian psychology (understanding of people) and psychotherapy (how to help people) while continuing to participate actively in the broader field.42Johnson,Five Views, 36. It is also confusing that Christian psychologists state that it is people who are familiar with contemporary psychology who are required to do the work of extracting psychology from the Bible and other Christian works. His work in and through you [the therapist] in this world will also result in redemption.50Ibid., 134. This is a significant assertion.28John Frame writes, Theologians who try to play down the importance of Gods authoritywhether to avoid patriarchalism, to promote freedom of human thought and choice, to allow great latitude to science and philosophy, or whateverhave lost something that is central to biblical revelation. Many difference interpretive approaches to the Bible have arisen within the Christian communityconsider the diverse subgroups within the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox communion (regional, ideological and institutional), as well as the slightly more obvious subtraditions that make up the Protestant communionand it would be unworthy of a Christian psychology to downplay these differences. See Stuart Scott, A Biblical Counseling Approach inCounseling and Christianity: Five Approaches, Stephen P. Greggo and Timothy A. Sisemore, eds. But the conversion process has gone the wrong way. When you see a therapist, you are receiving Gods healing in the form of therapy. 4:15, Phil. Describe the sufficiency of Scripture. We have to have a source of wisdom to turn to, an authority in which we submit to. 2nd ed. Christian counseling is effective for spiritual enrichment, strengthening ones relationship with God, and overcoming or managing mental health issues like depression. He is the author of Foundations for Soul Care and the coeditor of God Under Fire and Christianity and Psychology: Four Views. He is quick to say that the Bible is sufficient for the study and believe that the Scripture needs to be supplemented by the teachings and traditions of the church. Tan,Counseling and Psychotherapy, 329; Crabb,Effective Biblical Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1977), 61-71. (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2010), 101-28. If the goal is to form a biblical psychology, why is familiarity in contemporary psychology needed? Christian psychology incorporates both psychological theories and theological approaches to talk therapy by using biblical concepts with psychotherapy practices. The integration movement has thought that the gold mine of significant truth for counseling was in the secular psychologies and psychotherapies. Webintegrationist or Christian Psychologist regarding the insufficiency of Scripture for counseling. A full explanation and critique of the insufficiency view as held by Christian psychologists and integrationists is beyond the scope of this essay, but may be found in two works by Heath Lambert:A Theology of Biblical Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2016), 35-59; and Introduction: The Sufficiency of Scripture, the Biblical Counseling Movement, and the Purpose of this Book inCounseling the Hard Cases, Heath Lambert and Stuart Scott, eds (Nashville: B&H Academic, 2012), 1-24. For example, Johnson affirms that, the Bible has ultimate authority over all of psychology and soul care, but later admits that the Bibles authority also varies depending on the subject matter. Integrationists have challenged Christian psychologists regarding the possibility of achieving such a unique, singular Christian psychology,40Jones,Five Views, 184-7.and even Eric Johnson himself seems to concede that the whole CP project is destined to fail as the inevitable and happy result of human finitude.41Johnson,Foundations, 218-9. If the goal is to form a biblical psychology, why is familiarity in contemporary psychology needed? The stated goal of CP is to form or recover a unique, truly Christian psychology by studying the Scriptures and works from Christians in church history. 11:28-30). Integration refers to a related but different system for understanding the relationship between Christianity and psychology. For an explanation of the fallacy of empiricism as a reliable epistemological system and the importance of presuppositions for interpretation, see John Frame,The Doctrine of the Knowledge of God(Phillipsburg: P&R, 1987), 123-6, 140-1. This latter term goes beyond simply being Christlike to actually assuming something of a parallel role with Christ in the redemptive healing process.49Ibid., 79, 108, 123, 128, 134, 137, 158. The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy affirms: Holy Scripture, being Gods own Word, written by men prepared and superintended by His Spirit, is of infallible divine authority in all matters upon which it touches: it is to be believed, as Gods instruction, in all that it affirms, obeyed, as Gods command, in all that it requires; embraced, as Gods pledge, in all that it promises.29Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, as cited in Wayne Grudem,Systematic Theology(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994), 1204. Scripture shows us the right way to live. Biblical redemption is re-defined as emotional acceptance and unconditional love (58, 128). For example, Siang-Yang Tan and Larry Crabb both affirm that man has certain psychological needs for security (love) and significance (meaning/impact), but these conclusions arise from the influence of Maslow and needs psychology, rather than the Bible.32Tan,Counseling and Psychotherapy, 329; Crabb,Effective Biblical Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1977), 61-71. This Evangelicals sought to redress the churchs weakness by engaging in psychotherapies. In addition, the worldview awareness of Christian psychologists often allows them to detect unbiblical commitments in psychological systems that integrationists sometimes fail to see. (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2010), 185. Contrast Langbergs perspective with Psalm 18:2, The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Or with Jesus, Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. They are perennially vexed because they are inherently ambiguous. 11:28-30). Rather than this being an argument against a Christian psychology (Jones, 1986), these differences will contribute to its richness and fruitfulness. Johnson, Foundations, 218. In another edition (Christian Psychology7.1 (2013)), Brent D. Slife, board of reference member for the Society of Christian Psychology, co-authored an article on Theistic psychology with Mormon psychologist Jeffrey Reber. If the goal of CP is a uniquely biblical psychology based upon historic Christianity, efforts of this nature are confusing and illustrate that the actual developmental work of the movement is often pointed in the wrong direction. Scripture is perfect. The society publishes a journal,Christian Psychology, to promote articles written from a CP perspective. Why is this? When Christian psychologists refer to the development of a uniquely Christian psychology, they mean a comprehensive understanding of the nature of human beings from a Christian viewpoint. In more recent years, psychologists have begun recognizing that our spirituality impacts our lives, but have yet to say it is imperative for life. Scripture can restore the soul scripture can transform a person. For example, see P.J. Describe the sufficiency of Scripture. Third, Christian psychology differs from integration in respect to the goal of the system. In this new version Stanton Jones has moved from coeditor to author of the integration position chapter, with Eric Johnson assuming the post as sole editor. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1984); or John MacArthur,Matthew1-7: The MacArthur New Testament Commentary(Chicago: Moody, 1985). (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2012), 157-83. Even more important, personality theory turns out to be absolutely unnecessary for effective counseling. This stands in contrast to the moral darkness where men stumble and are unable to clearly see truth. WebSince the Bible is sufficient for all of life, should we rule out psychology in counseling? Wouldnt this task be better pursued by theologically informed and biblically trained pastors with experience in wise pastoral care? The authority to prescribe mental health medication. (Nashville: B&H Academic, 2012), 25-56. The Biblical Counseling Coalitions Confessional Statement nuances the complex mind-body issue as follows: We believe that biblical counseling should focus on the full range of human nature created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-28). Christian psychology is a relatively new movement, but its followers rightly point out that a uniquely Christian understanding of persons began with the writing of the Bible itself and was later developed by various authors throughout church history.3Eric L. Johnson, A Brief History of Christians in Psychology inPsychology & Christianity: Five Views, Eric L. Johnson, Ed. While the traditional Powlison has likewise critiqued the exposition of Roberts and Watson inFive Views, 196-8. Yet Paul freely recited Exodus stories to urban Greeks and then said, These things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction (10:11). Catholics do not adhere to. 2023 Association of Certified Biblical Counselors. Because it God-breathed, written by the very Omniscient God Himself, it is eternal. In a third text, Galatians 4:3-9, he confuses the Galatian heresy of the Judaizers with what he calls the law of linearity (35-36). Furthermore, her limited use of the Scriptures in counseling as revealed in her book, Counseling Survivors of Sexual Abuse, reveals a commitment to the therapeutic gospel. Packer,A Quest for Godliness: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life(Wheaton: Crossway, 1990). But the Bible addresses in practical detail the significant things good counseling must address. Watson and R.J. Morris are representative of Christian psychologists who have led and published research efforts of this nature.13For example, see P.J. Rather than this being an argument against a Christian psychology (Jones, 1986), these differences will contribute to its richness and fruitfulness. Johnson, Foundations, 218. The Word is just as relevant to our lives now as it was to the lives of the people who lived during the time it was being written. Most troubling is the fact that Crabb claims the Holy Spirit spoke audibly to him and led him to these passages and conclusions (67-68). << /Length 5 0 R /Filter /FlateDecode >> As the title implies, Evans develops Kirkegaards psychology of human beings through a careful study of his works. Scripture is God-breathed, so it is without sin, error, or corruption. The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. Rather, the Bible is equally authoritative in all the matters it addresses. It is properly called psychology because it is a set of concepts by which the nature and well-being of the psyche are understood, by which healthy and unhealthy traits, behaviors, desires and emotions are identified and to some extent explained. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matt. However, only one aspect (relationship) of her three is supported by commentaries and theological works. The Bible is always and finally authoritative, even when it reveals less content or seems less relevant on any given subject. Counseling Survivors, 45-51. On the surface such theories are speculative, prone to intellectual fashion, and prejudiced by their hostility to what is true and significant about people. The Anabaptists, the radical For My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matt. Lambert, Theology, 57. The case presented in this work is hypothetical, but still help for demonstrating how various Christian approaches to counseling flesh out in actual counseling practice. In Crabbs understanding, the gospel message is psychologized such these psychological needs are met through the gospel. Again, God works through everyone. 3:10), it is clear that the abuse of Christ mentioned in Isaiah 53 is because of our transgressions and our iniquities as He accomplishes redemption, not because He was a victim of senseless abuse. This includes therapists. They endeavor to form a psychological system that is presuppositionally Christian, and recognize that this system will reflect a true picture of humanity because it is distinctly Christian. Kierkegaard referred to some of his writings as psychology. Evans, inspired in part by philosophers like Kierkegaard, challenged Christians in the area of psychology to develop their own theories, research and practice that flow from Christian beliefs about human beingswhile continuing to participate actively in the broader field.7Johnson,Five Views, 36; Several contemporary authors identify themselves as Christian psychologists or participate in the broader movement. Grudem writes, the Bible does not support any restriction on the kinds of subjects to which it speaks with absolute authority and truth (94). P.J. The journal was previously titled,Edification. Roberts handling of the Pauline vocabulary for psychotherapy (sanctification) in his article Outlines of Pauline Psychotherapy represents a much stronger interpretation of the biblical text (Care for the Soul, 137-44). Gods Word is a lamp in dark places. Christian Psychology (CP) is a unique form of psychology which seeks to develop a distinctly Christian model for understanding the human condition. WebWhile most Christian counselors profess belief in the inspiration of the Bible, many seem reluctant to trust the Scripture to speak authoritatively to their counseling profession. We can confidently proclaim that Scripture is not confusing or mystifying sure there are things that are hard to fully comprehend, but as a whole, it isnt a puzzle. If a solid biblical and theological foundation could be established based upon an affirmation of Scriptures sufficiency and authority for counseling, coupled with a more careful exegesis of the text applied to both counseling theory and practice, perhaps the vision of Christian Psychology could be achieved. It changes his simple mind and helps him to learn discernment. He is quick to say that the Bible is sufficient for the study of doctrine and for salvation but not about serious counseling topics. Counseling Survivors, 45-51. % Compare her conclusions with standard theologies and works: Grudem, 442-450; Lambert,Theology, 184-91; Anthony Hoekema,Created In Gods Image(Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1986); Millard Erickson,Christian Theology(Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983), 517-536; Jay Adams,A Theology of Christian Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979), 118-120; Louis Berkhof,Systematic Theology, New Com. Personality theory, psychopathology, health, and therapeutic change have replaced biblical anthropology, sin, grace, holiness, and sanctification. According to Crabb (2013), maturity consists of both spiritual and psychological maturity that results in obedience and character growth (p. 25). See Stuart Scott, A Biblical Counseling Approach inCounseling and Christianity: Five Approaches, Stephen P. Greggo and Timothy A. Sisemore, eds. m~=WWc*oK;>>J>vZ38$e*DCB7"8!w d)@1;vX |=X?=1o^CQE^{]UP;l O:ey]tPW@0(w,z,e;Nc3tpIH "UoVVGP;^N. Relate the doctrine of the sufficiency of Scripture to the practice of biblical counseling. For example, integrationists repeatedly cite the Bibles failure to offer a personality theory. Because Scripture does not detail how individual differences arisein motivation, behavior, cognition, affective expressionit is presumed deficient when it comes to counseling. Johnson traces the emergence of the modern Christian psychology movement initially to the writings of Christian philosophers Soren Kierkegaard, and later to C. Stephen Evans.6Eric L. Johnson,Foundations for Soul Care: A Christian Psychology Proposal(Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2007), 10; Johnson,Five Views, 36. Powlison has likewise critiqued the exposition of Roberts and Watson inFive Views, 196-8. >TSG' *J'm -'#g-CTj,_HSAan$p75@C `^\w|:D|]cCg!m#R9:F . While Mormon doctrine is inconsistent with the doctrinal statement of the Society, this level of cooperation between two scholars representing vastly different theological systems raises additional concerns regarding the ecumenism of Christian Psychology as a movement. here in Hebrew can be translated whole or complete or sufficient; the idea that this is so comprehensive that it can completely cover all aspects of the issue at hand. Their state licensing frequently requires that they not proclaim Christ as the one and only way to heaven, or that Scripture is completely sufficient for properly dealing with all areas of life. The center of gravity and interest for even the most careful and theologically astute integrationists is psychology. See Grudem, 93-5; John Armstrong, The Authority of Scripture inSola Scriptura: The Protestant Position on the Bible, Don Kistler, ed. Roberts & Watson,Five Views, 155. While the Scriptures are clear that a relationship with God through the Person of Christ is a persons source of hope, strength, encouragement and stability in the day of trouble, Langberg notes that the clients relationship with God needs to be explored to see whether or not that can contribute to his stability at this time.47Langberg,Five Approaches, 122. That view rests on the massive assumption that explaining the differences between people provides the key to counseling. WebDescribe the sufficiency of Scripture. As the title implies, Evans develops Kirkegaards psychology of human beings through a careful study of his works. In contrast, Christian integrationists seek to examine and extract psychological and psychotherapeutic principles and insights from many sources, including the modern psychologies.17two examples that demonstrate this practice are, Stanton L. Jones and Richard E. Butman, Modern Psychotherapies: A Comprehensive Christian Appraisal (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 1991) and Mark R. McMinn and Clark D. Campbell, Integrative Psychotherapy: Toward a Comprehensive Christian Approach (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2007). While Gods understanding of human nature is the goal of a Christian psychology, given human finitude and the existence of distinct Christian traditions, the Society welcomes those working from any perspective within the historic Christian Church.37Society for Christian Psychology, Amplification of the Mission Statement, [online]; accessed 12 October 2016; available at http://www.christianpsych.org/. Utilizing Scripture and works from Christian writers of the past, psychologically-informed Christians seek to glean principles for understanding human nature and then systematize these findings into a comprehensive system of psychology. This perspective may help people to recognize how the Scriptures speak insightfully and powerfully regarding human nature, though it does not sound like a modern-day psychology textbook. Hood Jr., Sin and self-functioning, Part 1: Grace, guilt and psychological adjustment,Journal of Psychology and Theology16 (1988): 254-69; P.J. But where does it come from? . CP represents one of several ways that Christians have attempted to think about the connection between Christianity and psychology.1Other ways include the Levels-of-Explanation approach, Integration, Transformational Psychology, and Biblical Counseling. Langberg,Counseling Survivors, 55, 57, 105, 150, 158. For example, Diane Langbergs interpretation of Genesis 1:26-28 regarding the image of God as voice, relationship, and power is novel, and not based on solid exegesis of the passage.34Langbergs 3 fold view of the image is a key premise to her approach for understanding and ministering to those who have experienced the trauma of sexual abuse. It uses a pay-per-session model with prices that range from $58 per session to $184 per session, depending on the qualifications and experience of the counselor. 7. It applies to all situations of our experience (216). For a critique of this therapeutic version of the gospel, see David Powlison, The Therapeutic Gospel,Journal of Biblical Counseling25/3 (2007): 2-7. Research and respond to the arguments of at least one integrati (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2012), 157-83. However, he errors in concluding that this makes the Bible lessauthoritativeregarding subjects where is it reveals less content. This doctrine says that Scripture is sufficient for knowledge of God and that all theological affirmations must be consistent with Scripture. Life is full of chaos and it can be hard knowing which way to go but Scripture can show us the right path. Contrast Langbergs perspective with Psalm 18:2, The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Or with Jesus, Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Compare her conclusions with standard theologies and works: Grudem, 442-450; Lambert,Theology, 184-91; Anthony Hoekema,Created In Gods Image(Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1986); Millard Erickson,Christian Theology(Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983), 517-536; Jay Adams,A Theology of Christian Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979), 118-120; Louis Berkhof,Systematic Theology, New Com. The Bible is shown to be sufficient for helping the clients in each of those chapters. Personality theory is even a distraction because it directs attention to the wrong questions. The best integrationist thinkers are troubled by the current mass psychologization of the Christian faith. For comparison purposes, contrast the explanation of Roberts and Watson regarding the Sermon on the Mount with a standard evangelical commentary, such as D.A. Research and respond to the arguments of In his book, Foundations for Soul Care: A Christian Psychology Proposal. First, the central goal is to produce or retrieve a Christian psychology. , or God-breathed. (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2001), 135. It mistakes the fascinating but superficial for the significant. Likewise, Crabb struggles with proper exposition of three key passages which form the basis of his book,The Pressures Off.36In his book,The Pressures Off, Crabb confuses justification with sanctification in his interpretation of two key passages: Romans 7:6 and Hebrews 7:18-19 (27). Langberg,Five Approaches, 122. The case presented in this work is hypothetical, but still help for demonstrating how various Christian approaches to counseling flesh out in actual counseling practice. Everythingin Scripture comes to us as authoritative communication (emphasis original),The Doctrine of God(Phillipsburg: P&R, 2002), 92. (Nashville: B&H Academic, 2012), 25-56. Ibid., 171-2. In counseling practice, these secular commitments often mean there is a reluctance to be overtly Christian in counseling through prayer, through utilizing the Scriptures or through presenting the gospel to clients who may not be saved. (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1996), 202-210. At first glance, Christian psychology does not seem to be distinct from integration, but there are three key differences. The deep-seated commonalities between people are far more crucial to counseling than the extensive variations between people. In another work, Langberg describes the role of the therapist as bringing about redemptive healing as she incarnatesChrist.48 Langberg,Counseling Survivors, 55, 57, 105, 150, 158. Watson, A Christian Psychology View in Christianity and Psychology: Five Views, Eric L. Johnson, ed., 2nd ed. Hence, the followers of CP identify many authors throughout Christian history who wrote about the human condition and contribute to a Christian understanding of psychology. See Eric Johnson, ed., Psychology and Christianity: Five Views. The sufficiency ofScripture dictates that the Bible contains all that we need to know what we need to believe, and how we are to live before God. Its the generous support of our ministry partners that enables us to continue our eternity-shaping work. Ed. Since Christians believe the Bible is the authoritative Word of God and is the sole, God-breathed source of truth (2 Tim. A Biblical Assessment of Emotionally Focused Therapy, Combine biblical truth with psychological findings to create systems for understanding and helping people, Form a uniquely Christian psychology (view of human nature) based upon the Bible and works from Christian authors in church history, Needed because Scriptures only form general framework. C. Stephen Evans challenge for Christians to develop a uniquely Christian approach to psychology while continuing to participate actively in the broader field means that unbelievers may be influenced by Christian psychologists with the gospel of Christ and biblical truth (Matt. Scripture does not teach a sliding-scale of authority which varies depending upon the amount of information revealed on any given topic. The ecumenism of the movement is further seen through the diverse background of the Societys executive and references boards as well as the diversity of both the authors and theological systems represented in the societys journal,Christian Psychology. It would be terribly nave to assume that there will ever be only one Christian psychology in this age. Research and respond to the arguments of at least one Without Christ as the hope for the counselee, encouragement will primarily be found through the relationship with the therapist. Instead of portraying the biblical vision of people first to the church and then to psychologists, integrationists imported secular visions into Christianity. (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2010). Langbergs 3 fold view of the image is a key premise to her approach for understanding and ministering to those who have experienced the trauma of sexual abuse. Watson, R.J. Morris, and R.W. He again confuses justification with sanctification in application of this text to what he calls modern Judaizers (55-7). Excerpted from Integration or Inundation? in Power ReligionThe Selling out of the Evangelical Church, 205-207. In the integrationist model, biblical theology and some principles from secular psychology are integrated together.14For an overview of integration, see Stanton L. Jones, An Integration View inChristianity and Psychology: Five Views, Eric L. Johnson, ed., 2nded. Solid exegesis and interpretation of the biblical text is absolutely necessary for Christian psychologists to achieve their goal of developing a truly Christian psychology. The Statement later denies that infallibility and inerrancy are limited to spiritual, religious, or redemptive themes, exclusive of assertions in the fields of history and science (Article XII). Watson, R.J. Morris, and R.W. These sessions may include exploring troubling thoughts, fears, and personal history. WebIn Christian counseling, the Christ of the Bible will not be an appendage, a tack on for surviving life in the fast lane. He will be the center as well as the circumference of our Christian psychologists affirm a form of the sufficiency of Scripture, but explain this doctrine in such a way as to actually view the Scriptures as insufficient for soul care.31A full explanation and critique of the insufficiency view as held by Christian psychologists and integrationists is beyond the scope of this essay, but may be found in two works by Heath Lambert:A Theology of Biblical Counseling(Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2016), 35-59; and Introduction: The Sufficiency of Scripture, the Biblical Counseling Movement, and the Purpose of this Book inCounseling the Hard Cases, Heath Lambert and Stuart Scott, eds (Nashville: B&H Academic, 2012), 1-24.
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