“Psychology is just sinful human beings sinfully thinking about other sinful
human beings.”
I’m in partial agreement with this statement. Both Christians and
Psychologists are human, and neither of us is perfect. Romans 3:23 states,
“for all have all sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (King James
Version). Although we have sinned, we should not be labeled or defined by
our sins. Humanity is inherently sinful; I disagree with the idea that
psychology as a practice is “sinfully thinking” about human beings. d
Psychology is the practice of helping people.
This statement comes across as both skeptical and cynical. It considers the
worst in a person before seeing the best in a person. It appears that this
perspective was derived from a tainted experience or view of the field of
psychology. Even when we strive for neutrality our own values and
worldviews are expressed in our thinking (Entwistle, 2015, p. 196). We need
to be aware of and evaluate the presuppositions that we bring to the field
of psychology (Entwistle, 2015).
I believe that there is a possibility that this perspective may have been
developed as a result of fear. Psychology is an area that many Christians
and pastors may not be too familiar with. There could be a fear of the
unknown since the approaches are vastly different from that of Christianity,
which may result in criticism and resistance. Fear can skew our perspective,
limit our growth, and hinder the learning process as it may cast a negative
influence on the understanding of the field of psychology (Nichols, 2010). d
My views align with the “Allies” model. I agree with the stance that God is
sovereign over all things and that through God’s perspective that all truth
fits together cohesively (Entwistle, 2015, p. 182). Various worldviews, human
error, limitations, and human understanding act as barriers in discovering the
truth and achieving successful cohesion (Entwistle, 2015). “Christians can
benefit from insights of secular individuals, while some techniques may
clearly violate Christian values, there are others stemming from a
discernment of the workings of God’s creation are applicable to Christians
and non-Christians” (Entwistle, 2015, p. 194).
Scripture is inspired and useful in all areas, however, this does not mean
that scripture provides all the answers (Entwistle, 2015). The bible is not just
spiritual, it is practical.
Entwistle states that psychology is a means to explore and find practical
methods to understand human behavior (Entwistle, 2015). We should attempt
to approach this practical subject with neutrality and objectivity.
References:
Entwistle, D. (2015). Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity: An
Introduction to Worldview Issues, Philosophical Foundations and Models of
Integration. 3rd edition. Cascade Books.
Nichols, K. (2010). Untie the Fear Knots of Your Heart. Liberty University
Press.
