Overview
Psychology and psychotherapy were once viewed as either intrusive or incompatible with the Bible's teaching, but now Christian counselors work in and through the church to help people achieve mental and emotional health. But is this right? Is the Bible the only textbook we need on psychology, as some argue, or can counselors work in and through Scripture and the church to help people who need to do more than just read biblical admonition?
Table of Contents
SCRIPTURE: Psalm 32; Romans 7:13–24; 2 Timothy 4:1–5; James 1:2–27
LEADER'S GUIDE
• The Issue
Sample questions:
How much help do most people need to apply biblical instruction to issues related to mental health?
Who is better equipped to apply biblical instruction to issues related to mental health—a pastor or a professional counselor? Explain your answer.
• The Scriptures
Sample Scriptures:
James 1:2–27: How can a Christian understanding of such people contribute to helping others live happy and fulfilled lives?
2 Timothy 4:1-5: Read Paul's charge to Timothy and discuss what help a counselor as well as a pastor can find here.
• The Application
Sample application questions:
With so many Christians rushing to professionals for counsel, what are some of the dangers?
What are some of the Christian themes that psychology needs to address?
ARTICLE FROM CHRISTIANITY TODAY
• The Therapeutic Revolution by Tim Stafford (May 17, 1993, 10 printed pages)
Total number of pages—
