Running head: MODELS OF INTEGRATION AND PERSONAL AFFINITY 1
Models of Integration and Personal Affinity
Entwistle (2015) cites “The critique that psychology is sinful human beings sinfully thinking
about sinful human beings...” At first thought, I believe this to be a fundamentalist or biased view of
psychology. This critique initially was NOT very credible in my view. He also asserts that careful
consideration of our assumptions is required by theologians. After study and review of the Chapter,
understand and agree with what Entwistle is trying to convey.
In philosophical anthropology, which is the study of character, disposition, qualities, and
inclinations of human beings, theologians study human nature. They become both the investigator or
observer and the object of the investigation. (Entwistle, 2015, page 155) Meaning that as pastoral
counselors, we can interject our own assumptions, beliefs and prejudices into the field of or science of
psychology.
Entwistle (2015) cites “… modern psychology is built on a scientific approach to studying
behavior, it is also built on metaphysical assumptions…” To say that psychology utilizes only scientific
inquiry, does NOT mean that it is free from bias. (Entwistle, 2015, page 146) Psychology has two (2)
epistemic frameworks of the study of nature and limits of human knowledge. One is based on empirical
or scientific data and the other is based on rational disclosure, which can interject our worldviews,
personal experience and education; and consequently can shape our theories. Entwistle (2015) also states
“…there may be many apparent contradictions between science and Christianity, which are the result of
metaphysical premises and interpretations.” Metaphysical assumptions have implications on one's
understanding of truth, goodness and beauty.” (Entwistle, 2015, page 126)
Therefore, the critique that psychology is about “sinful human beings simply thinking about
sinful human beings” is appropriate, especially if our assumptions and premises are biased, false, or
MODELS OF INTEGRATION AND PERSONAL AFFINITY 2
sinful. Entwistle's (2015) asserts that pastoral counselors must “…carefully consider our own thoughts”
before entering into consultation with a client.
Within the lecture COUN 506 (LUO) Sin, Confession, and Redemption in Counseling different
theology concepts of sin are discussed from universal to personal sin. It was rather interesting to note the
different natures of sin. Most are considered a rebellion against the Lord, including the hereditary,
original sin from Adam and Eve, and that man is basically sinful in nature. Romans 3:23 states “for all
have sinned"and fall short of the glory of God.”
A better understanding of the Dynamics of Sin is required as pastoral counselors. Chief among
the dynamics is to enable the client to be self-aware of their needs. A counselor must determine the
client’s attributional style – external, internal, or universal/cosmic. A sense of conscience is required. Is
there an appreciation of right or wrong; or is it out of alignment. Is the client personally responsible for
their own problems or do they blame others?? One of the goals of counseling is assist the client to
become willing to accept responsibility and to be remorseful; but also to move from being just
remorseful to experience true repentance and to make a change in their lives through God’s grace and
mercy. Understanding these theology concepts of sin and how it relates to our clients’ needs are critical
to become an effective counselor!
After review of the six (6) models of the relationship of between psychology and theology,
including the antagonistic models, the intermediate models and the integrative model. As a realist, the
model that I have a personal affinity for is the Allies as Subjects of one Sovereign. The Allies model
recognizes the underlying unity of human nature, and the legitimacy of both theology and psychological
investigation” (Entwistle, 2015, page 182) Both disciplines can stand on their own sources and merits
without being manipulated into a false premise. The Allies model also recognizes that all truth is known
MODELS OF INTEGRATION AND PERSONAL AFFINITY 3
by God who is sovereign over all things. “The Allies model acknowledges the sovereignty of Christ as
creator and sustainer of all things.” (Entwistle, 2015, page 183)
What is appealing to my realistic nature is the Allies model allowance for the recognition of
human error and limitations, which is like a governor on a golf cart. This regulator can keep us honest
and truthful as pastoral counselors; and keep us from getting ahead of ourselves or getting out of
alignment with our client. It is important that our personality be adaptive or amenable to that of our
client. The Allies model is integrative and non-manipulative, which is unique and unlike some of the
other models. Psychology and theology are rightly understood as allies.
There is much to take delight in the Allies model! The Telos moves to strive as a faithful steward
of all that God is entrusted to us, including the study of the book of His Works and the Book of His
Word; and the goal is to unify the truth between psychology and theology; and to use psychological and
theological methods to gain a more holistic and unified understanding of truth! (Entwistle, 2015, page
184)
References
Entwistle (2015). Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity 3rd Edition, An Introduction to
Worldview Issues, Philosophical Foundations, and Models of Integration. Published by
CASCADE Books.
COUN 506 (LUO) Sin, Confession, and Redemption in Counseling. Week Seven, Lecture One.
