Different Approaches To Psychology And Christianity Theology Religion Essay

Different Approaches To psychological science And Christianity Theology Religion EssayIntegrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, written by David N. Entwistle, is a thorough examination regarding the integration of psychology and religion, in which both attempt to understand human nature. Integration is described as a thing that we discover when we are uncovering the fundamental unity that paragon created, as well as something we do as we create ship canal of thinking ab out(a), combining, and applying psychological and theological truths (Entwistle, 2004, p. 19).An individuals worldview is ones life survey, which filters their reality. Both the psychologist and the theologian subscribe to their worldviews and presuppositions into their separate methodologies and goals. The authors theocentric model unites theology and psychology, as both have sympathetic concepts that derive from Gods created world. In order to attain a holistic perspective of human nature, both a re necessary (Entwistle, 2004).Before psychology was sort out as a science, it had deep roots in philosophy and religion, though it was not successful in dealing with serious psychological disorders (Entwistle, 2004, p. 44). During this duration the perform leaders were deemed the spiritual physicians, caring for the souls of men. (Entwistle, 2004, pp. 44-45). The church leaders were involuntarily pushed into the back shadows with the rise of psychology, when curiosity began to embark upon the unconscious of man, moving psychology from examining the sensory systems of man to examining the mental processes of man (Entwistle, 2004, p. 49).Integration motivatings to blob and discern the unity of all truth, that is that all truth is Gods truth, wherever it may be found. A comprehensive integration volition involve, according to the consort paradigm, a holistic perspective on how human beings live, learn, think, feel, think, and relate to from to severally one one other and t o god (Etwistle, 2004, p. 239). The book of Gods word (scripture) and the book of Gods sours (creation) never conflict, but the interpretations of man may be inconsistent at multiplication (Entwistle, 2004, p. 262).Human nature is complex and multifaceted. Psychology and theology must be integrated because human beings are integrated in themselves. It is erroneous to ramp up truth upon just a few strands of the whole tapestry, lest we lose set of the entire being. Integration must consist of the faith reading of both books, examining with careful exegesis and hermeneutics, and re-evaluating psychological reasoning, data and theories. We must learn to be gentle with the detail that there forget be some level of skepticism and ambiguity we exit always have to live with (Entwistle, 2004, pp. 273-274).Concrete solutionMy husband and I were pastoral leaders in a church where anything outside of the church was not considered ministry. We were told that God wanted us to pee-pee in full time ministry, which meant working full time with no steady pay.I didnt have any formal training in the bible nor in counseling, yet I preached and counseled. Everything was by faith, with the false article of faith that all knowledge and healing exclusively comes through the spirit of the Lord. all in all of the teaching and counsel given stemmed from the leaders hurts and experiences. This was of no service to the parishioners, especially to those who had genuine mental health issues. My husband and I last moved away to another state.Whenever I tried to give counsel, I found that religious people either felt they did not need it, or believed I was somehow not spiritual enough. I excessively found that nonreligious people tended to be disinterested in hearing anything about God. Every time I opened my mouth, I seemed to find my behind in it.Five age after we left that church I enrolled in Liberty University to continue my education in psychology, unspoilt-tempered late struggling with my anti-psychology beliefs. I finally choose to go into professional counseling. I desired to be equipped and effective in counseling. Over the years I have come to know Christians who have had real psychological issues, but they only sought out Christian counsel. Most still have those issues today, still hiding behind religion.ReflectionWith the integration of theology and psychology, are we attempting to create a separate Christian psychology? If so, would this Christian psychology be less effective for those who are not Christians, or do we require conversion before they are able to concern of Gods learning? If so, are we withholding the very grace and graciousness of God, forgetting that fact that His sun rises on the evil as well as the good (Mat. 545).I in like manner wonder if integration is realistically assertable with all the various perspectives underneath the umbrella of Christian theology. Christianity has numerous argue theories and conclusi ons, similar to secular psychology. I dont believe full integration will ever be possible, but I am confident that Spirit filled Christians have the power and ability to discern and act in such a way to work towards the healing and wholeness of each client.Entwistle was very constructive in stating the importance and possibility of integration (in which I disagree). He outlined various historical as well as contemporary viewpoints concerning integration, giving his opinion on which ones promote a holistic perspective. He also suggested several useful methods of integration.Although Entwistle acknowledged the metaphysical work of the Holy Spirit in integration, I was disappointed that he didnt leave this a significant theme. I find it is important to integrate, yet believe that full integration may be impossible. I would have also liked to have read more about the pitfalls of being unequipped in ministry when dealing with mental health issues.ActionGiven that each human being is com plex, counseling can be problematic. A holistic approach is the only way one can tap into the cozy intricacies of man. I would plead with every Christian counselor to continuously hear their hearts. Due to the nature of our society and culture today, I would suggest they carefully consider every aspect of their client (body, soul and spirit). If not, they may do more harm than good.I am determined to work out my biases, as well as my resistance to change from anti-psychological thinking. I will continue to strive to gather all truth, which is Gods truth, from every relevant discipline. My primary(prenominal) goal as a counselor is to be equipped and ready to pull out the most effective treatment from my relentless inner-integration. I believe every effective Christian counselor must be filled with the knowledge of Gods will in all wisdom as well as spiritual understanding (Col 19-17), so to cause forth instruction with zeal and fullness from his or her inner storehouse. This wi ll ensure the impartation of both fresh wisdom and ancient wisdom (Mat 1352 KJV Wordstrudy). For one without the other stands deficient.