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Combatants and Antagonism Assignment
Hope R Blair
School of Behavioral Health Sciences, Liberty University
PSYC 420: Psychology and Christianity
Dr. Deborah Newman
June 9, 2025
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Learning from the "Enemies": Lessons from Combatant Perspectives in Psychology and
Christianity
In the ever-evolving and sometimes heated relationship between psychology and
Christianity, the “Enemies model” paints a picture of deep-seated conflict and seemingly
unbridgeable gaps. This model, whether embraced by secular thinkers or Christian advocates,
tends to create division. However, Entwistle (2015) offers a refreshing perspective, reminding us
that “those with whom we disagree often have things to teach us… [we must] ask ourselves what
is to be learned and appreciated” from these differing views. By taking the time to thoughtfully
explore the stances of both secular and Christian sides, we can uncover valuable insights that,
surprisingly, can lead to a richer and more integrated understanding of what it means to be
human.
One key takeaway from the secular thinkers who follow the Enemies model is their
steadfast dedication to empirical rigor and scientific methods. They believe that the scientific
method is the most trustworthy way to grasp human behavior and mental processes. These
individuals often stress the significance of observable events, replicable studies, and conclusions
grounded in data, arguing that any claims lacking empirical support, including those of a
theological nature, are questionable and lack verifiable evidence (Knabb, n.d.). While their
outright rejection of spiritual or theological insights can be a point of contention, their focus on
methodological integrity serves as an important reminder for those in the Christian community. It
pushes us to express our theological and philosophical foundations more clearly and to critically
assess the evidence backing our beliefs, even if that evidence differs from empirical data. This
focus on clarity and reasoned discussion can help Christians steer clear of intellectual
carelessness and instead foster a more solid and defensible worldview, recognizing that faith
should not replace thoughtful engagement.
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On the flip side, Christian thinkers within the Enemies model often highlight the
importance of theological truth and the ways psychological theories can clash with core biblical
principles. Their concerns usually arise from the belief that certain psychological ideas might
undermine human dignity, reduce people to mere biological entities, or promote values that
contradict a Christian perspective. For example, they might point out cases where secular
psychology seems to overlook concepts like sin, spiritual brokenness, or the necessity of divine
intervention for true human flourishing (Entwistle, 2015).
To wrap things up, while the “Enemies model” in the relationship between psychology
and Christianity tends to create division, taking a closer look at the differing viewpoints can
actually teach us a lot. From those who approach it from a secular angle, we gain insight into the
value of empirical evidence and solid reasoning. On the other hand, Christian perspectives
remind us of the importance of theological truths and the need for careful discernment. In the
end, the existence of these opposing views highlights the importance of intellectual humility and
the urgent need for integrative approaches that recognize the complex nature of human
experience. By embracing these insights, we can move past simple opposition and foster a more
nuanced, meaningful, and ultimately beneficial dialogue between psychology and Christianity.
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References
Entwistle, D. N. (2015). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction
to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration (2nd ed.). Wipf
and Stock Publishers.
Knabb, J. J. (n.d.). Relationships between Christianity and psychology: Toward a more
integrative approach. Journal of Psychology and Christianity
Tjeltveit, A. C. (n.d.). Toward a desirably holistic (scientific/theological) psychology. Journal of
Psychology and Christianity
