lOMoARcPSD|21126671
LBMukau Entwistle Review Assignment (Shared
Doc)
Integration of Spiritualty and Counseling (Liberty University)
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 1
Entwistle Review Assignment
Liberty University
COUC 506-D01 Integration of Spirituality and Counseling
July 10, 2022
Liz B. Mukau
I have no known conflict of interest to disclose
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to
Liz B. Mukau
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 2
Summary
Dr. David Entwistle, in his book Integrative Approach to Psychology and Christianity, has
provided a valuable resource to the Christian community. In his book, he explains the need to
integrate psychology and Christianity, even if psychology and theology are different in the
source materials and methods they use (Entwistle, 2015. p.167). Dr. Entwistle first discuss the
relationship between psychology and theology and the many well-known patterns that follow
this discussion. Psychology concentrates primarily on reason, experimentation, and some
disciplines to acquire more knowledge on the subject. While the emphasis of theology is placed
mainly in the Scriptures for obtaining information.
In addition, the book review will summarize four chapters (8-11) that focus primarily on
Entwistle’s six models. Speaking of models, a model represents every concept that man uses in
his day-to-day life. According to the author, humans widely use models such as language,
symbols, maps, clocks, charts, numbers, etc., as they work their way through their world
(Entwistle, 2015, p, 165). The six models which are discussed in chapter eight are Enemies,
Spies, Colonialists, Rebuilders, Neutral Parties, and Allies (2015, p.167). Each model represents
a different way of assuming the relationship between psychology and theology. The Enemies
model implies that psychology and theology are inherently opposed and mutually incompatible.
(Entwistle, 2015, p.172). Spies' model suggests that psychology and theology choose what works
in a particular situation and only choose what may be beneficial to each other (Entwistle, 2015).
The Colonialists model approach psychology in a suspicious way and will only use psychology
if it complies with their theological presumptions. The Rebuilders model exhorts psychology to
return to its foundation by focusing on what the Bible must teach about human nature and
comfort. Within the Rebuilders model, Christians believe that psychology has been twisted
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 3
from what God has created it to be. (Entwistle, 2015, p.178). Neutral parties promote the
exploration and oneness of Christianity and psychology. However, they are different from each
other and do not interact significantly with each other. At Neutral parties, there is an argument
that is sought between psychology and theology. Finally, the Allies model is founded on the
unity of truth, assuming that all truth is the truth of God revealed in the Word of God and
striving to integrate the truth of theology and psychology with their faith in God instead of one
discipline or another.
Moreover, the author of the book emphasizes three categories of the disciplinary
relationship model such as antagonistic, intermediate, and integrative/Allies models. Moreover,
Entwistle uses the Enemies model to highlight the antagonistic model of disciplinary
relationship, a model that regards psychology and Christianity as enemies (Entwistle, 2015,
191). There are two different ways of looking at this relationship. On one side, secular
combatants, who see religion as an enemy of psychology. The other side are Christian
combatants who see psychology as the enemy of Christianity. Furthermore, Entwistle describes
the intermediate models of disciplinary relations, including spies, colonialists, rebuilders, and
neutral parties. All these models have divergences and similarities, strengths, and weaknesses.
As well, Entwistle, in the last chapter of this review, describes the Allies model of disciplinary
relationship which proponents maintain that all truth is God’s truth, as such, both the disciplines
of psychology and theology can shed light on the truth. As a result, many professional
counselors operating from a Christian worldview would subscribe to this relationship between
psychology and Christian theology (Simmons, et al. 2020). They would claim that all truth is
God's truth affirming that psychology, theology, or both can provide answers to a client's
problem.
-Interaction
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 4
While there are different approaches to Christian counseling, the role of Christian
theology based on Scripture or the Bible in counseling is critical and central. (Tan, 2011). This
integration of Christian faith or Christian theology and psychology can be conceptualized
through different models. In fact, Entwistle develops the importance of understanding the
connection and gap between psychology and Christianity using the models (Entwistle, 2015).
The book illustrates how worldviews influence the way we approach to integration. After
reading these chapters, I learned how worldviews can significantly change someone’s perception
of theology or psychology. Initially, I thought that I agreed with the Rebuilders model as they
would subscribe to the idea of Christian psychology, claiming that Christianity contains an
implied psychology that is found in Christian tradition and the Word of God and presenting
Scripture that support this distinction.
However, after further reading and review, I am more supportive of the Allies model.
Besides, in the Allies model, psychological and theological models are used together to attain a
more holistic and unified understanding of what truth is (Entwistle, 2015). Furthermore, the
Allies model also recognizes that our aim as humans is to have a close relationship with God.
This model focuses on the truth of God that is revealed in the Scriptures and in the works of God
(creation). This thought relates to a biblical scripture that says, "The sum of your word is truth,
and every one of your righteous rules endures forever" (Psalm 119:160, ESV). Reading this
book, I see that Entwistle explains this model in a way that helps me better understand that
integrating psychology and Christian theology in our counseling profession is very critical and
effective. As Simmons, et al. (2020) stated, it is helpful to search for a model within the field of
Christian counseling, when looking at the relationship between counseling and the Christian faith
to better understand this relationship (2020).
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 5
Application
As I try to get into my area of counseling, understanding where I am into disciplinary
models considering my worldview, Christian theology and psychology is very important.
Reading this book has influenced my thinking since it opened my eyes and showed me the way
to integrate both disciplines. As I mentioned earlier, finding a model in the field of counseling is
crucial when considering the relationship between counselling and Christianity (Simmons, et al.,
2020). However, the combination of Christian theology with counselling can be complicated and
difficult. The author of the book says that not everyone will necessarily agree with integration
because everyone has the right to find ways to integrate (Entwistle, 2015). As a Christian who
works in Christ's footsteps and believes in God's Word, I am interested in loving others and
helping them in the healing of their mind, body, and spirit. In fact, spirituality has a more
profound metaphysical significance in our lives (Armentrout, 2016). The spiritual element of
human experience provides a viable source of inspiration and strength to bring about change.
In addition, the book review helped me realize that I could face challenges and
controversies involving integration in Christianity and psychology when serving my clients, I
know that challenges may come, but I believe God will make a way for me to overcome them
since I am obedient to His word. The Bible says in Paul’s epistle to Corinthians, “No temptation
has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted
beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will provide the way of escape, that you may be
able to endure it” (I Corinthians: 10:13, ESV).
lOMoARcPSD|21126671
ENTWISTLE REVIEW 6
References
Armentrout, W. (2016). Integration of Christianity and psychology. Retrieved from:
https://www.enrichingrelationships.org/blog/2016/2/7/int
Bible Gateway (2022). Online Bible. Psalms 119:160, ESV. Retrieved from:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+119%3A160&version=ESV
Bible Gateway (2022). Online Bible. I Corinthians 10:13, ESV. Retrieved from:
ht tps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I+Corinthians+10%3A13&version=ESV
Entwistle, D.N. (2015). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An
introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration. Liberty
University Library
Simmons, R., et al. (2020). Introduction to Christian counseling: Integration of faith,
professional identity, and clinical practice, Kendal Hunt Publisher.
Tan, S.Y. (2011). Counseling and psychotherapy: A Christian perspective. Baker
Academic
