Truth in Love

1. God glorifying change as a key tenet of biblical counseling. 2. Where do we get the concept that sanctification is the primary aim in biblical counseling? 3. What texts come to mind when thinking about not adding to God's Word in counseling? 4. Why do we see sanctification as such an important issue when considering helping others in counseling? 5. Where do we see people substituting other ideas for sanctification? 6. What is the goal of biblical counseling and how does that determine the methods we use? Click here to partner with ACBC!

Omri Miles, the lead pastor of Grace Bible Church in New Orleans, dives into the complexities of gospel-centered counseling. He discusses the nuances of sharing the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of discernment to avoid potential pitfalls that could harm others. Miles highlights how mishandling these truths can mislead counselees and stresses the need for ongoing biblical study. He also shares valuable resources that can aid counselors in navigating these challenges while prioritizing God's glory in their practice.

Darrell Harrison, a teaching pastor at Redeemer Bible Church and co-host of the Just Thinking Podcast, joins the conversation to unpack the biblical understanding of discontentment. He explores how discontentment stems from dissatisfaction with God’s plan and the dangers it poses to relationships, particularly in marriage. The discussion highlights the silent yet serious impact of unaddressed emotions and emphasizes the importance of gratitude and realigning with Scripture. Recommended resources are shared, guiding listeners towards a deeper understanding of contentment.

In this engaging discussion, guest Francine Tan, a Malaysian biblical counselor with a fresh PhD in Applied Theology, dives deep into the concept of 'the body keeps the score.' She explores how trauma is stored in the body and the significance of dissociation in trauma responses. Francine shares insights from trauma research, highlighting emotional regulation and the complexities of memory. She also examines how biblical perspectives can inform trauma-informed practices, blending modern psychology with scripture in a thoughtful, impactful manner.

This discussion features Francine Tan, a Malaysian biblical counselor and PhD in Applied Theology, who sheds light on Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). She explores its historical recognition and the influences of key figures like Judith Herman. The conversation dives into the nuances of recovery, including Herman's three-stage model and the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Tan emphasizes the need to bridge secular trauma insights with biblical perspectives, highlighting the importance of safety, remembrance, and empowerment in healing.

Greg Gifford, an Assistant Professor of Biblical Counseling and author of 'Lies My Therapist Told Me,' delves into the relationship between salvation and the mind. He discusses how true mental transformation comes from regeneration by the Holy Spirit, steering clear of mere secular practices. Gifford emphasizes the importance of biblical teachings in understanding mental health and encourages a re-evaluation of common psychological terms through a scriptural lens. He also highlights the need for critical analysis of therapy literature, promoting alignment with biblical truths.

In this conversation, Greg Gifford, an assistant professor of biblical counseling and author, dives into the crisis facing mental health today. He discusses how secular therapy can conflict with biblical principles and the unintended consequences of therapeutic practices. Gifford emphasizes the need for a biblical understanding of the mind and brain, arguing against the oversimplified chemical imbalance theory. He also critiques misconceptions in therapy, urging a reevaluation of methodologies while previewing upcoming training events in biblical counseling.

Jenn Chen, an ACBC certified biblical counselor and author, delves deep into the complexities of the DSM and its limitations in accurately diagnosing mental disorders. She critiques the subjective nature of the DSM, discussing how financial and political influences may cloud its integrity. Chen also emphasizes the need for a biblically informed approach to mental health, encouraging listeners to reconsider common therapeutic practices and the role of identity in faith. Ultimately, she hopes her insights will inspire a more compassionate understanding of mental health challenges.

Jenn Chen, an ACBC certified counselor and author of "Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorders," dives into the complexities of integrating biblical insights with modern mental health practices. She discusses the DSM, clarifying its role and limitations in diagnosing mental disorders. Jenn emphasizes the subjective nature of these diagnoses, critiques their scientific validity, and highlights how cultural factors shape perceptions of mental health. She advocates for a holistic understanding, connecting mental health to both physiological and emotional influences.

1. What is Mysticism? 2. Where did the roots of epistimological mysticism come from? 3. Why has this movement so impacted evangelicalism today? 4. Why do we see this kind of mysticism as a problem? 5. How is this an afront to biblical revelation? Click here to register for our conference Ancient Paths!