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.
a a a 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.
a a a 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)
a a a 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 sinful. Entwistle's (2015) asserts that pastoral
counselors must “…carefully consider our own thoughts” before entering into
consultation with a client.
a a a 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 a a 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!
a a a 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 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)
a a a 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.
a a a 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.
PACO506_Discussion Thread_Models of Integration and Personal
Affinity+AHPv1.0.docx
