lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 1
Neff and McMinn Review 2
Cara Soto
Mental Health Counseling, Liberty University
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 2
Abstract
The following paper reviews chapters four, five and six of the book Embodying Integration (Neff
and McMinn, 2020). After reviewing chapter four, it contains useful information and models on
atonement and the current model that most Christians today adhere to and the influence of how it
impacts our relationship to God and Jesus. The next chapter explores mission. The different
views and perspectives on mission and God’s missional heart. The concluding chapter addresses
God with us. What does integration of Christianity into the counseling session look like to the
counselor. The chapters explore different perspectives of integration and how the counselor’s
perspective of different theological viewpoints will influence the counseling session. The next
section of the paper is the reflection of the writer on two key components of the last few
chapters. The final part is a summary of what the reader/ writer of the paper gained in a personal
and spiritual sense from the book.
Keywords: atonement, Christianity, integration, client, counselor
Chapters Four Through Six Summary
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 3
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 4
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 5
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 6
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 7
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 8
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 9
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 10
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 11
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 12
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 13
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 14
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 15
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 16
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 17
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 18
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 19
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 20
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 21
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 22
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 23
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 24
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 25
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 26
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 27
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 28
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 29
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 30
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 31
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 32
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 33
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 34
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 35
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 36
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 37
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 38
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 39
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 40
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 41
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 42
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 43
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 44
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 45
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 46
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 47
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 48
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 49
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 50
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 51
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 52
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 53
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 54
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 55
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 56
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 57
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 58
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 59
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 60
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 61
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 62
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 63
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 64
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 65
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 66
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 67
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 68
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 69
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 70
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 71
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 72
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 73
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 74
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 75
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 76
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 77
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 78
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 79
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 80
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 81
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 82
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 83
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 84
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 85
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 86
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 87
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 88
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 89
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 90
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 91
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 92
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 93
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 94
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 95
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 96
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 97
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 98
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 99
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 100
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 101
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 102
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 103
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 104
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 105
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 106
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 107
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 108
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 109
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 110
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 111
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 112
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 113
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 114
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 115
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 116
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 117
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 118
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 119
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 120
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 121
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 122
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 123
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 124
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 125
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 126
cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 127
others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 128
punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 129
Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 130
Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
The book Embodying Integration (Neff and McMinn, 2020) is written by a dad and
daughter team. Megan Anna Neff is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where she
received her MDiv. She lives in Oregon with her husband and two children where she is
currently pursuing her doctorate in clinical psychology at George Fox University. Mark McMinn
is a well-known author and educator. He helped start the PsyD program at Wheaton College.
Mark is a licensed counselor in the state of Oregon where he and his wife run a small sustainable
farm.
The next few pages will be a concise overview of the last tree chapters of the book
Embodying Integration. Neff and McMinn (2020) start the chapter by sharing how important a
person’s stories are, these stories whether it is that of a client or the counselor, are shaped by
spiritual and religious beliefs. The stories that are lived and how one relay’s their stories reveal
the view they have of themself. It is important for the counselor to know their personal story as
well as the beliefs that surround the stories. In their article Lee et. al. (2019) points out that what
counselors believe about religion and spirituality shapes their stories, therefore, Neff and
McMinn (2020) look at atonement and how our perspective of atonement changes the views and
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 131
the approach of the counselor to the client. Atonement is the action of a person who takes the
penalty of the other for their wrongdoing, it is also the process of coming into wholeness and
reconciliation with God, it invites us into a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting upon
atonement moves us towards the stories that clients tell themselves. This opens up opportunities
to have meaningful conversation of transformation (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
There are many different perspectives of atonement. Neff and McMinn (2020) break
down a few of the popular views that are held. The first is Christus Victor/ransom theory, here
our separation from God is our sin. Christ’s victory over enslaving sin was his ransom paid to
Satan. Second, is the moralistic theory in which experiencing God’s love is what leads to
transformation of one’s spiritual life Neff and McMinn (2020). This model moves people to
repentance to God and moral transformation, it is seen as a subjective model. Thirdly,
satisfaction/penal substitution model has been the dominate theory and the most widely held
belief for the past five hundred years. Even though it is the most popular it is also the most
susceptible to distortions and misinterpretations. This model can best be explained as a
satisfaction for the insult. One of the biggest criticisms of this theory is that the heart of God is
complacent to violence (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
One down fall of the satisfaction/penal substitution model is that the framework is not
consistent with the view of a loving God, but one that is harsh and waiting to hand out
punishment for wrongdoing. However, there are strengths of the satisfaction/penal substitution
theory. First, this view of atonement leads to the awareness of the essential forgiveness that is
offered by Jesus. Secondly, this awareness leads to the forgiveness of others and one’s self.
Another strength of this theory is that it causes us to take the problem of sin seriously and
recognize the harm we have done. Lastly, God’s love and holiness meet at the cross, this theory
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 132
helps us not to overemphasize love as the cost of underemphasizing righteousness and justice
(Neff and McMinn, 2020).
How does the therapist counselor view the patient? This will greatly depend on how they
view atonement. When a counselor sees a God, who understands the darkness (sin) inside us, it
creates the possibility that that darkness is redeemable. Counselor and client will not be walking
alone in the messiness; he is there with them. This view helps counselors enter their clients
suffering and darkness by giving them hope that God is there walking with them and that this
darkness is redeemable. Neff points out that when her woundedness and the woundedness of her
clients overlap, it tends to bring up a mix of vulnerability, risk, and opportunity. She says how
she navigates her woundedness will influence how she works with her clients. It is important to
note that the greatest tool counselors bring into the therapy room is themselves, therefore it is
important to reflect on how we relate to God, our woundedness and the personal experience of
the counselor toward sin and shame (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Moving into chapter five Neff and McMinn (2020) pose the question how do counselors
share their faith in the counseling session? McMinn explains that a counselor’s views of mission
will impact the way they speak of faith in the counseling session. Neff and McMinn (2020)
address the fact that if we recast the understanding of mission from a thing we do verses a way of
being oriented to the other the work of the counselor will be more effective in actually fulfilling
the mission of baring witness to God. McMinn gives the example of a woman client who came to
him who he saw as desperately needing Jesus. However, he knew that mentioning Jesus or
Christianity would only disrupt their relationship as counselor/client because of her view of men
and dependence on McMinn to give her answers (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
lOMoARcPSD|27792785
NEFF AND MCMINN REVIEW 2 133
One push back that counselors get is the critique that therapists are short-circuiting God’s
intended work by relieving emotional pain. McMinn addresses this by saying that if he is too
quick to save them from their shame, guilt and discomfort, he is robbing them from experiencing
the grace, forgiveness and transformation that they long to experience (Neff and McMinn, 2020).
Thus, it is not the counselor’s job to alleviate discomfort, but help the client grow and have God
transform their lives.
Neff and McMinn (2020) also breakdown what it is to be a Christian community. They
point out that what we need as a Christian community is diversity. During Biblical times Jews
and Gentiles were separated. But Jesus during his mission here on earth made it clear that there
was not distinction. The Jews and Gentiles were one under the blood of Jesus. The implications
are that there should be one Christian community not parallel Christian communities. Neff and
McMinn (2020) emphasize that God is missional, he is turned towards us in hope and love.
In their concluding chapter Neff and McMinn (2020), tackle the tricky question of where
is God in the uncertainties of life? They start with the word integration which means wholeness.
They offer a wide scope of what this looks like by reviewing what was covered in the previous
chapters. McMinn is vulnerable in this chapter by stating that he does not know how to “do”
integration. Integration comes from the counselor being in a relationship with their helper the
Holy Spirit. Being aware of how the Holy Spirit (Shekinah) is working in the therapy room and
allowing conversations that honor the dignity of the client, as well as staying present in the
moment. Offering the loving presence of God in a broken world to the client who is setting in
their brokenness, darkness and sorrow (Neff and McMinn, 2020). In this last chapter of the book,
Neff and McMinn (2020) touch briefly on some important subjects. One of these subjects are the
terms attachment and attachment injury, it is beneficial to be aware of a person’s attachment
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cues. When these cues are missed a person can go into attachment protest which may result in
relational misses, disconnection and perceived abandonment. Helping clients name their
attachment vulnerabilities and needs moves them towards relational connection. Not just towards
others but also God.
Reflection
The last few chapters have been revealing to the lack of knowledge I have in theology. I
have had many eye-opening moments with the way Neff and McMinn (2020) use actual personal
stories and their vulnerability is refreshing. It is good for me to see in writing that not all
counseling sessions will go as planned. Not all session will have the desired outcome. I enjoyed
the honesty of McMinn as he acknowledges that he really does not know how to integrate
Christianity and psychology. I appreciate his openness about relying on the Holy Spirit to guide
as he prays silently to God for help. This book has given me not only practical tools but
reinforced the idea that my relationship with God is what is going to make all the difference in
the counseling session. In his paper Garzon et. al. (2014) points out that while book learning is
beneficial, the downfall can be overreliance on books and therefore miss key integration
opportunities.
Mission
Another concept that was introduced to me by Neff and McMinn (2020) is the view of
mission. So often the once saved always saved has popped up in many Christian circles of
beliefs. This soteriology makes the missionary have a one task job. Get the person to pray the
prayer of salvation and the job is done. This is not the Christian way of thinking. There is much
more to helping a person understand what they are committing to. As young person I was
encouraged to go on mission trips. It was not mandatory; however, our denomination like many
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others, believes that we need to spread the message to the ends of the earth. At seventeen I went
on a mission trip to Russia for two months. I was so excited to be there and share Jesus.
However, shortly after arriving we (the team I was with) realized that the people did not even
have the first idea about who Jesus was, let alone salvation. Seventy years of communism had
wiped out any recognition of God. I had two epiphanies on that trip, one, sometimes we as
missionaries go to the mission field thinking we have all the answers to the people’s problems.
Secondly, I learned that the trip was more for my spiritual growth than that of the people I was
sent to convert. My relationship with God grew and I learned that God had sent me on that trip
for my conversion not for others, that was a bonus.
Neff and McMinn (2020) show us that when mission is seen under ecclesiology it shows
us that God is oriented towards the world. He is inviting me to be part of an outward facing
mission, versus the soteriological outlook which is basically we do mission work for the
salvation of others, another words, to keep them from going to hell. The gospel is so much more
then that. Sharing the good news of hope, healing and restoration is what we also need to be
sharing alongside the Good News of salvation.
Atonement
During my reading of the chapter on atonement I stopped to reflect about what metaphor
spoke to me in my time in history, my culture and to me personally. Neff and McMinn (2020)
bring to my attention that many different images are used throughout the New Testament to help
us understand God’s saving work. As most Christians I have tried to find a balance within the
satisfaction/penal substitution model. I do not want to believe that my God is far away and
waiting for me to sin so he can punish. However, I do want to acknowledge that my sin is
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punishable by death but in his loving kindness Jesus came to pay, with his life and death, for
what I owe.
One strong metaphor that comes to my mind is the setup of the scene in the movie The
Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe (Johnson, 2006). Based on a C.S. Lewis book by the same title.
The story begins with a young boy, Edmond, who had betrayed his whole family to the enemy,
the White Witch. Aslan, who is metaphorically Jesus, makes a deal with the White Witch that he
will assume the punishment by giving his life for this boy who is a liar and betrayer of his family.
At first the children are excited that Aslan negotiated the retraction of death for Edmond with the
White Witch. However, later the children realize that not all has been forgiven. Blood must be
shed, Aslan’s blood. This scene is one that always affects me profoundly because Aslan is not
portrayed as fierce or guiding the children from a distance. He has been there walking with them
and talking with them. He is right there with them and now he is willing to give the ultimate gift
so they can live. This deed of Aslan leads to Edmond realizing his need for forgiveness. It opens
his eyes that he is loved no matter what. But it also demonstrates that there is a price to pay for
Edmonds sin. By offering this gift there is a reestablishment of relationship between Edmond and
Aslan. Now more than ever Edmond it dedicated to Aslan and the mission that Aslan has given
him. Reading this chapter and connecting the metaphor of the movie have given me the ability to
articulate my view of atonement. The price for my sin has been paid, however that sin cost Jesus
his life. This gift has given me a deep love for my savior, and has pointed to the fact that I need
to be more forgiving, that I need to be vulnerable and admit my sin and the damage of
relationships between God and others. However, Jesus’ gift has restored my relationship with
God and his love for me has made me into a dedicated follower.
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Spiritual Formation
One of the first way the fourth chapter of the book has impacted my relationship with
God is that I have never really articulated my model of atonement. What a beautiful thing to
learn the different models and ideas about atonement. Recounting the story of my modern
metaphor of Edmond made me fall in love with my savior again. How much he loves me!
Leading with that thought I move on to my view of mission. I am going to use a question from
Neff and McMinn (2020), If God is missional, and always turned towards the world, what
implications does this have for how I set with my clients? I lean into the understanding that God
is working in the world and he is working with my client. God is the one moving them to
wholeness. I once again return to my favorite verse in the Bible that states that Jesus came to heal
the broken hearted, and to set the captives free and comfort all who mourn (New
International Version, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Vulnerability. This has been a big take away from my reading of the last three chapters. I
have been apprehensive about how I can be a competent counselor. I have been learning theories,
integration, cultural awareness. All of it has been so overwhelming because I think to myself,
these clients are coming to me thinking I know something of how to lead them. I wonder do I use
gestalt therapy? narrative? Do I pray with them? Am I being culturally sensitive? What if I screw
up? It was relieving to read Magen Anna tell the story of a client who she fell into the
doer/doneto method of helping where she tried to fix his problems when he was not ready to
hear. She reminded us the reader that these dynamics can show up and pull us in unexpectedly.
Her encouragement to examine why we went there in our thinking or done-to mode made me
realize that I will always be growing and analyzing myself. It was also relieving to know that
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Mark admitted to not knowing how to integrate Christianity into all his sessions. I love how they
were both real and vulnerable not with just what I mentioned but all throughout the book.
In summary, I believe that the most important thing I can do for the client is show up for
them (Neff and McMinn, 2020) and offer myself to them by being present and hospitable. As
Hawkins and Clinton (2015) point out that leading with kindness connects to the hidden fears
and the highest hopes of our clients. May I reflect my Savior from the daily encounters that I
have with him. And as I minister to my client’s I will trust in the fact that there are not just two in
the room, but three.
References
Garzon, F. L., Hall, M. E., & Ripley, J. S. (2014). Teaching Christian Integration in Psychology
and Counseling Courses. Journal of Psychology and Theology, 42(2), 131-135.
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%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fteaching-christian-integration-psychology%2Fdocview
%2F1562506938%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085
Hawkins, R., & Clinton, T. (2015). The new Christian counselor. Harvest House Publishers.
Johnson, M., Steuer, P. (Producers), & Adamson, A. (Director). (2006). The chronicles of
Narnia: The lion, the witch and the wardrobe [film]. United States: Walt Disney Home
Entertainment
Lee, D. D., Goedeke, S., & Krgeloh, C. U. (2019). Spirituality and religion in clinical practice :
The experiences of psychologists in the integration of spirituality and religion in therapy
in Aotearoa New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Psychology (Christchurch. 1983),
48(2), 82-90.
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Neff, A. M. & McMinn, M. R. (2020). Embody integration: A fresh look at Christianity in the
therapy room. Intervarsity Press.
New International Version. (2001). Women’s Devotional Bible. Zondervan.
