Basics about Bipolar (Part 3)
In this final post on bipolar disorder, the author reviews another book on the topic, this time a personal account of living with bipolar. He goes on to discuss three common views on the use of medication, and then concludes by revisiting the case study introduced in the first part of the series.
Basics about Bipolar (Part 2)
In this second of a series on the topic of bipolar disorder, the author reviews two more books. The first is written from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, and the second addresses bipolar in children, particularly in the form of mood swings.
Basics about Bipolar (Part 1)
In this first of a series on the topic of bipolar disorder (formerly "manic depression"), the author introduces a case study, followed by a basic framework for thinking biblically about the topic and for engaging with secular perspectives on the disorder. The blog post then summarizes and interacts with the first of four secular books on bipolar disorder, identifying how we can benefit from the book and thereby help people live in dependence upon Christ.
If Christian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Works, Why Isn’t It an Ally?
The author shows that behavioral therapy, even when called "Christian" and used by Christian psychologists, does not rely on the crucified Christ and the life-giving Spirit. While it may be effective in altering behavior, it is not genuine Christian heart-changing counseling.
Secular Psychology, Christian Psychology, and Christian Counselling
This academic article opens up, and puts into biblical perspective, the fundamental issues involved in the relationship between secular psychology and biblical counselling. It is an essay about how Christian or biblical counseling ought to be taught.
Biblical Counseling v. Secular Psychology
This article argues that genuine change (change of heart) can only be effected by biblical counselling, and not by the approach or the methods used in secular psychology.
In Your Light Do We See Light
This article spells out some of the basic differences between various forms of secular psychology, and the perspective and approach of biblical counselling. He shows that although secular psychology is in many ways fundamentally flawed, biblical counselors can make use of things that secular psychology has recognized.
What Evangelicals Say about Psychology
Can theology be trusted? Well, it all depends on the theology and the theologian. When the theologian seeks to be guided by the Holy Spirit and when theology is based on a careful study of Scripture, then theology most likely can be trusted. Similar conclusions can be made about psychology and its use in pastoral care.
Liberalism
What Does Biblical Counselling Believe about Extra-Biblical Information? (Part 2)
This article was written in the context of a debate between two orthodox evangelical believers about the use of secular psychology and drugs to address psychological problems. The author shows that the real issues involved with the use of secular psychological research are theological.
What Does Biblical Counseling Believe about Psychological Research? (Part 1)
This article was written in the context of a debate between two orthodox evangelical believers about the use of secular psychology and drugs to address psychological problems. The author shows that the real issues involved with the use of secular psychological research are theological.
Psychological Theory
This article looks at recent trends in the psychological sciences and their implications for pastoral care. The author discusses current ideas regarding mood (specifically depression), personal identity, and unconscious motivation.