I agree that the gospel message matters in all areas of psychology
because of the hope it brings to all situations. Romans 5: 3-5 states,
"suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and
character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because
God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who
has been given to us" (English Standard Version, 2022). By sharing the
gospel, we can instill hope.
Additionally, integrating research on hope from a theological perspective
with psychological science will add great insight and care for human
persons.+Hope is either a psychological construct or a spiritual trait.
However, instead of relegating hope to one side or the other, Christian
psychologists can explore hope through religious and scientific avenues.
Examining hope through a Biblical worldview and psychology deepens our
understanding and application. The Bible offers a perspective "from which
to view misfortune, a promise that God is with us in our suffering, and a
hope that suffering and even death will ultimately be redeemed (Johnson,
2010, p. 71). Hope studied outside the context of this Biblical worldview
will only be a pale reflection of the true strength of real hope. A
broadening of the understanding of hope through incorporating a Biblical
worldview expands the boundaries of Scripture beyond the realm of
religion, furthering the well-being of all human persons and the
advancement of the gospel.
We know that hope exists because of the goodness in Creation and the
knowledge that evil will be defeated one day. Even individuals who do not
believe in a religious hope will benefit from this hope that goodness does
exist. Additionally, Christians who have this hope will engage with the
world that encourages others to move toward God, the Creator of all
things good. I wish you the best as you continue your program and we
both participate in the hope that He has called us to.+
+
References
English Standard Version.+(2022). Crossway. Retrieved from Esv.org
Johnson, E. L. (Ed). (2010).+Psychology and Christianity, five
views.+Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.
