ii
Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 1
Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Critical Interaction......................................................................................................................... 2
Thesis Development............................................................................................................ 2
Theological and Biblical Perspectives ................................................................................ 2
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Article ............................................................................ 2
Pastoral Counseling Implications ....................................................................................... 3
Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Bibliography .................................................................................................................................. 4
1
Introduction
The purpose of this critique is to address the Christian doctrine of human beings in
relation to pastoral counseling, trinitarian theology, and Christian anthropology; from the
perspective of Shirley Guthrie Jr. The primary focus of this critique is on faith in the triune God,
who is Creator, Redeemer, and Life-giver; and the distinguishing characteristic of Christian
pastoral counseling.1
Summary
As noted by Guthrie, “The purpose of this article is to discuss some way in which the
Christian doctrine of human beings (traditionally called the doctrine of “man”) informs, or
should inform, pastoral counseling”2 Guthrie chooses to emphasize particular issues that were
not suggested by an abstract theoretical interests (as it relates to theology and pastoral
counseling) but rather by his participation with fellow teachers, students, and supervisors in the
cooperative program of pastoral education. The clinical side of this education takes place in three
seminaries, along with institutions (primarily hospitals).3 The author establishes the uniqueness
of Christian pastoral counseling in the fact that the counselor’s work is based on his or her
attempt to understand themselves (and their counselees) in light of the triune God.4
1 Guthrie, "Pastoral Counseling, Trinitarian Theology, and Christian Anthropology," 130.
2 Ibid.
3 Ibid., 131.
4 Ibid., 131–132.
2
Critical Interaction
Thesis Development
Guthrie did an exceptional job of formulating his thesis of “an anthropology based on
faith in the triune God who is Creator, Redeemer, and Life-giver is a distinguishing characteristic
of Christian pastoral counseling.”5 His detailed explanation of the importance of pastoral
counselors understanding themselves (in light of their faith in the triune God) is thought-
provoking. Throughout the article Guthrie provides the needed support for his thesis.
Theological and Biblical Perspectives
The author acknowledges that he writes from the particular perspective of his commitment to an
interpretation of the Presbyterian-Reform tradition.6 He further goes on to state, “I do not wish to
argue that this tradition, or my interpretation of it is the only “correct” doctrine of human
beings.”7
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Article
Guthrie was very thorough in his research of the question of human freedom. He cited
resources that were relevant to the article. He also brought revelation and clarity to the reader in
understanding the complex balance between human freedom and the Christian belief about the
sovereignty of God. Guthrie notes, “… The sovereignty and grace of God are not the enemy but
the source of human freedom.”8
5 Ibid., 130.
6 Ibid., 131.
7 Ibid.
8 Ibid., 138.
3
The author was somewhat deficient in his research on the “bodily existence in which
rationality, feeling, and volition are integrated.”9 Though he shared some useful information on
this particular subject, much more clarity was needed. He also lacked in his use of biblical,
exegetical studies in support of his statements.
Pastoral Counseling Implications
Pastoral counseling (reflecting the grace of God) will communicate to counselees that they are
sinners who are loved, accepted, and forgiven. Also, the fact that it is God’s grace that changes
sinners. This aspect of God’s grace has three consequences for pastoral counseling: pastoral
counseling motivated by a theology of grace finally seeks to enable people not to be but to
become, Christian pastoral counseling motivated by a theology of grace will give up all
neutrality about the goal of change, growth, or becoming, and pastoral counseling motivated by a
theology of grace seeks to “infect” people with hope.10
Conclusion
Overall, the author does an excellent job of detailing how the Christian doctrine of human
beings informs (or should inform) pastoral counseling. He firmly establishes the uniqueness of
Christian pastoral counseling, as opposed to counselors and therapists who do their work without
religious orientation. He stresses the fact that pastoral counselors know that God alone is the
savior, judge, creator, reconciler, and giver of new life; and the fact that their counselees are
created in the image of God. Finally, Guthrie provides solid support for his thesis throughout the
article.
9 Ibid., 133.
10 Ibid., 142–143.
