It was very informative reading your perspective on the Biblical View
compared to the Psychological view. I agree that there needs to be a
discovery regarding greater insight related to the “soul”. Although I grew
up with a grandmother that was an individual of faith, I had a
misconception that other individuals were raised with the same teachings.
In church I was taught about the Trinity. However, I did not understand
the divisions of the soul (mind, emotions, will). Research indicates that the
parts of the brain are interconnected like a network (neuroplasticity) of
tree branches (synapse) which undergo a pruning process (James, 1890).
If this is what happens within the complexities of such a small organ as
the brain, I agree the Biblical View should definitely be the foundation for
research.
I feel that both the Biblical view and Psychological view, express a
desire to comprehend fullness and bring healing to the mind (Johnson,
2010). You addressed Positive psychology, which I feel addresses human
virtues in an attempt to minimize the division between itself and the
Biblical view. This is a huge step of correcting an imbalance from the
secular view. However, so much more information can be gained by
expanding Biblical phenomena and Psychological within future research to
explain the interactions of the soul (mind, emotion, will) as well as the
body and the Spirit.
I can relate to your path of training. I also received an eye - opening
revelation related to comparing secular and Biblical curriculum. I received
my Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology from a secular
university as well. I was in the same classes that consisted of a cohort of
military Chaplains. The Family Life Office that we were attached to used
Positive Psychology in order that soldiers could overcome crisis and carry
out the military mission. However, the Chaplains also addressed a great
deal of concern in the curriculum related to topics that went against their
faith. This is the very reason that Positive Psychology and other sciences
must covenant with Biblical knowledge as a main source for
understanding the complexities of the mind, body and Spirit. Education is
a gift that was given to us from an all knowledgeable Creator (MEV, Prov.
2: 6) to reach nations.
References
James, W. (1890). The Principals of Psychology, 1, Henry Holt &
Co.https://doi.org/10.1037/10538-000 (Links to an external site.)
Johnson, E. L., (2010). Psychology & Christianity, five views.
(2nded.)Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.
InterVarsity Press. ISBN 978-0-8308-7661-7 (digital).
Modern Evangelism Version, Breakthrough Jubilee Bible, (2014). Military
Bible.
