Biblical Foundations for Counseling PDF

OVERVIEW What is Christian Counseling? Christian Counseling is providing guidance and instruction based upon the principles set forth in the Bible and taught and adhered to by Jesus Christ. The tenets of Christian Counseling are: x The Bible is the eternal, unchangeable Word of God and provides the...

OVERVIEW What is Christian Counseling? Christian Counseling is providing guidance and instruction based upon the principles set forth in the Bible and taught and adhered to by Jesus Christ. The tenets of Christian Counseling are: x The Bible is the eternal, unchangeable Word of God and provides the sole authoritative source of the model of man and the principles that dictate and govern man's behavior. x There is a moral and ethical right and wrong, and these are clearly defined in the Word of God. x Man is held accountable to the moral and ethical principles found in the Bible Why do people act the way that they do? People choose the way they behave. They make a choice to obey God or disobey God. Their choices are based upon their perception of what is the best way to meet their needs. However, it must be emphasized that man was created in a state of innocence, disobeyed God, and is now in a fallen state. Man has taken what was good, and distorted and perverted it, so now it is sin. What is the reason people need counseling? People need counseling because they have not been able to meet their needs in a Biblically correct manner. The meeting of these needs begin with a realistic and right relationship with God and can be summed up by fulfilling the following: Love God and Love Your Neighbor. The Bible provides extensive and practical instruction on how to obey these two commands. Terminology Christian Counseling does not label an individual but evaluates and compares (confronts) the person’s attitudes, thoughts, values, beliefs, and behavior with Biblical principles. Defining "mental illness" Biblically. In the absence of a pathology, mental illness is the feeling and state one is in, when his thoughts and behaviors bring him into conflict with God's laws. This state may be the result of deliberate rebellion or a lack of knowledge of God's laws. Counseling therefore takes on the responsibility to not only educate, but in some instances re-educate the client. Not only must the client learn certain laws and behaviors, but also others must be un-learned. Man’s faulty perception, and therefore, his faulty choices (sin) produce the conflicts that are manifested as mental illness or emotional problems. Counseling will help establish or restore a right relationship with God. 6 Types and Degrees of Mental Illness People behave the way they do in an attempt to meet their needs. Since mental illness is the feeling and state one is in, when his thought and behaviors bring him into conflict with God's laws, it does not matter what the variation or the manifestation of the behavior is, or the degree of its intensity. People's unBiblical thoughts and behaviors are not the result of mental illness; their mental illness is a result of their un-Biblical thoughts and behaviors. The answer, or the cure, is the same. The Cure for "Mental Illness" x Obey God and follow His laws x Confess our sins and accept God's forgiveness x Examine ourselves and correct our behavior x Renew our minds through study and acceptance of God's ways x Choose to not be conformed to the world x Walk in the Spirit and not in the Flesh x Restore damaged relationships with others x Become conformed to the image of Jesus Christ Help is in the present - not the past. The reason that people have problems, or have had problems in the past is because of their un-Biblical thoughts and behaviors dictating their response to the event. Whether these thoughts and behaviors are actions or re-actions is irrelevant. Therefore, the solution required is to focus on the present thoughts and behaviors and not on the past event. Since the past is un-changeable, there is no benefit on focusing on the past. The reason that people have problems is their present thoughts, perceptions, and behavior relative to an event. Since it is not the event that produces emotions, then focusing on the event or the emotion associated with the event is non-productive. A counselor should explore the past only to the extent necessary to understand what event the person is reacting to and to identify past thoughts and behaviors that are contributing to the problem. Biblical Change Change is accomplished by the conscious decision to follow God's laws and principles. These are summed up in the following way: x Put off the old nature x Put on the new nature x Renew your mind x Be not conformed to the world. Evaluating behavior rather than interpreting behavior A person chooses his behavior based upon his best effort to meet his needs or cope with situations in his life. Mental illness results from choosing to meet these needs in an un-Biblical way. Therefore, it is important to focus on the behavior and the thoughts that select this behavior, rather than try to interpret what the behavior represents. The severity of the behavior is a measurement of how much problem the client is having in having his needs met. Also, no matter how severe 7 or irrational his behavior may appear, the behavior is chosen and has a meaning to the person exhibiting the behavior. When the person finally is able to meet his needs in a Biblical and realistic manner, his symptoms disappears; i.e. he is cured. This is not to say that the problem disappears…this is to say that he can now deal with his problem in an appropriate way and day-to-day functioning is not hindered or impossible. Biblical Recovery 2 Tim. 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. Note the following: The counselor’s role... Must not strive, be gentle, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing The Problem 1. We have believed a lie – The snare 2. We are not in control – taken captive 3. We are our own enemy – oppose themselves 4. We need to turn to God – repent 5. We must face reality – acknowledge the truth 6. We must assume personal responsibility – recover themselves Basic Assumptions The root problem of all counseling is a damaged relationship and the manifestations of that damaged relationship. Just as the cross is vertical and horizontal, so must correct relationships be balanced both vertically (man to God) and horizontally (man to man) (Mark 12:30-31). When someone calls for counseling, you know three things about the person automatically. 1. There is a lack of a satisfying significant relationship. Jesus provides us a perfect example of a relationship. When we were saved Jesus: a. Accepted us as we were b. Put away our past c. Began a good work in us based upon His Word d. Promised to never leave us or forsake us 2. As a result of this lack, emotional needs are not being met correctly. a. Love b. Significance c. Freedom d. Discipline e. Emotional Awareness f. Knowledge of God 8 3. There is a lie one believes. a. Some have never been taught the truth Col. 2:8 b. Some reject the truth 2 Tim. 4:4 c. By changing the truth of God Rom. 1:25 d. By claiming to love God, yet hating one’s brother. 1 John 4:20 e. By denying God and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 John 2:22 f. By denying that Jesus is Christ, and that He has come in the flesh. 1 John 2:22-23, g. By denying that one has not sinned or that man is not a sinner. 1 John 1:8, 10 h. By not believing the record God gave of his Son 1 John 5:10 i. By not keeping God’s commandments. 1 John 2:4 j. By professing Christ, yet walking in darkness. 1 John 1:6 When Someone Calls for Counseling, You Know 3 Things… Effect Counseling Without God, man tries to meet his needs from a self-centered perspective There must be a balance between vertical and horizontal relationships (God and Man) Emotional Needs not Met or Perceived as not Met x Love x Significance x Freedom x Discipline x Emotional Awareness x Knowledge of God When Needs are not met correctly (Biblically), they will be met incorrectly (UnBiblically) Counseling must discover the root problem and not focus on the surface symptoms A Lie is Believed in the Spirit One gives place to the devil and these become strong holds Lack of a Satisfying Significant Relationship Lust of the Eye Lust of the Flesh Pride of Life The lie must be exposed Christian counseling is about understanding relationships and helping those who seek counseling establish or restore a right relationship with God and man. 9 BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS I. God It is important for the counselor to realize that “faith comes by hearing” and therefore, to have faith in God requires that one hear about God. The Christian counselor must be able to give an answer when asked about the God that we preach and teach about. God Exists This is a stated fact in the Bible, declared by the heavens and all creation and is not subject to debate or refutation. Psalm 19:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Romans 1:19-20 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: God is the Creator Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. Hebrews 1:10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: Application: He is the creator of all things; therefore we are responsible to Him. All of man’s problems are the result of violating God’s Word. There is not one social problem you can name that is not the result of violating God’s laws. God is our Judge Psalm 50:4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people. 10 Psalm 96:13 Before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth. Hebrews 10:30-31 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Application: God is the judge and we are accountable to him alone. If we would examine our attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors in the light of this truth, many of our problems would disappear. God is Omnipotent Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son. Job 42:2 I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Application: God is the creator of the heavens and the earth and all things. There is nothing too hard for the Lord. Because of this fact, we can have confidence that He can help us with all of our problems when we call to him. Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. God is Omnipresent 1 Kings 8:27 But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded? Psalm 139:7-10 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. Acts 17:27-28 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Application: We need to understand that God is everywhere. There is no place that we can go that He cannot find us. There is nothing we can do that He cannot see. 11 God has the Absolute Right to Rule Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. Jeremiah 18:6 O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Application: He alone is the Creator and therefore, He, alone has the right to set the rules that govern all of His creation. He is the sole and final authority to decide all matters within His creation. He has fully revealed Himself by His Word. Hebrews 1:1-3 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: Psalm 33:11 The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Application: He has given us His word, which endures forever. We now have the knowledge of what God says and demands, and we now have no excuse for transgression. 12 II. Jesus Jesus Christ is the Son of God Luke 1:34-35 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Jesus is God with Us Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. 1 Tim. 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God Col. 1:12-15 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: Hebrews 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Jesus alone is the Savior of the world John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. 1 John 2:23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. 13 Jesus has All Authority Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Luke 10:22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. John 3:35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. Ephes. 1:20-22 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Philip. 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Col. 1:16-19 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; Note: Of course, the entire Bible and the entire world is not enough room to tell all about Jesus, but the five concepts listed above are absolutely essential for effective counseling. 14 III. The Holy Spirit Divine Characteristics of the Holy Spirit 1. The Holy Spirit is eternal Hebrews 9:14 2. The Holy Spirit is truth John 14:16-17 3. The Holy Spirit is Omnipresent Psalm 139:7-10 The Work of the Holy Spirit 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Indwells the believer Regenerates Anoints Guides Empowers Sanctifies Comforts Gives Joy Gives discernment Rom. 8:10 John 3:3,5 1 Jn. 2:20,27 John 16:13 Acts 1:8 Rom. 15:16,; 1 Cor. 6, 11 John 14:16-26 Rom. 14:17 1 John 4:1-6 IV. The Bible It is important that the counselee understand both the authority of the Bible and why it has that authority. The Bible is the inerrant, infallible Word of God and that exalts it above any other book, text, or reference. It is Inspired by God 2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 1. 2. 3. 4. It provides correct doctrine Proverbs 4:2; John 7:16 It reveals our deepest thoughts (reproves) Heb. 4:12 It corrects you Psalm 119:9; Psalm 25:8-9 It instructs you Psalm 25:4-5; Psalm 94:12 It is Eternal Isaiah 40:8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 1. 2. 3. 4. His Word is for all generations Psalm 33:11 His Word will endure forever 1 Peter 1:25 His counsel will stand forever Isaiah 40:10 His Word shall not return void Isaiah 55:10 15 It is Truth John 17:17 (KJV) Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. All of God’s Word is truth Psalm 119:151 The gospel is truth Ephesians 1:13 We are begotten by the Word James 1:18 It is the standard for judgment James 12:48 It keeps you from sinning Psalm 37:31 God’s Word is Sufficient 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. It is perfect for converting the soul Psalm 19:7 It makes the simple to be wise Psalm 19:7 It makes the heart rejoice Psalm 19:8 It enlightens the eyes Psalm 19:8 It is more desirable than gold Psalm 19:10 It warns us Psalm 19:11 Keeping His Word has rewards Psalm 19:11 It works in those who believe 1 Thes. 2:13 God’s Word Provides for You 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Make wise unto salvation 2 Tim. 3:15; Romans 1:16; James 1:21 Produce faith 2Tim. 3:15; Romans 10:17 Make Jesus Christ known 2 Tim. 3:15; John 5:39; 1 Cor. 15:1-8 Build up Acts 20:32 Give inheritance Acts 20:32 Make the man of God perfect 2 Tim. 3:17 It strengthens you in grief Psalm 119:28 It sustains you Psalm 119:116 It comforts in affliction Psalm 119:50 It gives hope Rom. 15:4 It provides peace Psalm 119:165 It sanctifies and cleanses Eph. 5:26 16 V. Man Man is created in the image of God Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: Application: Man was created for a purpose that is to reflect the Divine Image of God. Man is a spiritual being Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. 1 Cor. 15:45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Man is not an animal Psalm 8:4-8 (KJV) What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. Application: Man is held to a higher standard than just physical existence and physical laws. He is held accountable to God and to the higher spiritual principles given by God. This is why man must be born again John 3:5-6 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 1 Cor. 2:14-16 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. 17 ESTABLISHING BIBLICAL AUTHORITY From a Biblical standpoint, we learn that one of the most confusing and backward times in Israel's history was when God's people had no respect for His standard of authority. In Judges 21:25, the scriptures say, “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” Since the Bible says that Christians ought to “all speak the same thing” (I Corinthians 1:10), and that we should all walk by the same rule (Philippians 3:16), it is important to understand how to counsel according to the Bible and to be sure that we “rightly divide the Word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). 1. There are two, and only two, sources of authority in religion. God and man. Matthew 21:23-27 (KJV) And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. Notice that when Jesus asked His question, the men had to deliberate and make a choice to refuse to acknowledge God. Paul also emphasizes that man is not more important than the Word. 1 Cor. 4:6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another. Col. 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 18 2. All authority belongs to God and He has revealed Himself and His will through the Bible. Isaiah 40:8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 3. As counselors we are not to go beyond the principles taught in the Bible. Philip. 3:16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. 1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Cor. 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 4. From the very beginning to the end, we are commanded not to add to or take away from the Word of God. Deut. 4:2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you. Rev. 22:18-19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. Matthew 5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 5. There are four ways in which we determine what the Bible says: x x x x 6. Direct commands, both positive and negative. Approved examples Application of scriptural principles Understanding necessary conclusion In the absence of the four conditions, there is no violation of God’s Word. Romans 4:15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. Romans 5:13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. In II Timothy 3:16, 17, the Bible says: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” The words “given by the inspiration of God” is a translation of the Greek word theopneustos, which literally means “God-breathed.” Therefore, Scripture, in order to be Scripture, must be God-breathed, that is, it must come from the very mouth of God. Scripture is authoritative because it comes directly from God. 20 Section Two Principles of Counseling 21 COUNSELING PRESUPPOSITIONS The Bible provides the only authoritative guide for a relationship with God and with other persons Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Deut. 29:29 The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law. Psalm 19:7-11 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Isaiah 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Col. 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: Christian Counseling is the systematic application of Biblical principles, and the Bible alone is sufficient to provide the counseling principles to address all of man’s mental and emotional needs. 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 22 Psalm 84:11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 119:98-100 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. 2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 1 Cor. 3:21-22 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; There is a moral and ethical right and wrong, and these are clearly defined in the Word of God. Furthermore, man is held accountable to God to the moral and ethical principles found in the Bible. Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Hosea 6:7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. Jeremiah 18:6 O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? 23 Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. A violation of the two great commandments, to love God, and to love your neighbor form the foundation of all of man’s problems. Deut. 6:5 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord. Romans 13:8-10 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Galatians 5:19-26 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Problems that are labeled “psychological,” “emotional,” “behavioral,” and “relational” always involve a violation of God’s Word. James 2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: 24 Galatians 5:19- Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Christian counseling addresses all areas of human behavior and interaction including personal sin, sins against us, suffering, loss, and future hope. John 15:19-21 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. Romans 8:36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 1 Thes. 3:4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. 2 Tim. 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Psalm 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Sin separates us from God and others. Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Psalm 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 1 John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Isaiah 59:2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. 25 Jeremiah 5:25 Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. John 8:24 I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. Man is made in the image of God and is therefore significant and subject to the moral and ethical principles that God has dictated. Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Genesis 9:6 Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. Hebrews 2:6-8 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. Exodus 23:2 Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment: God’s intention is that we be transformed and conformed to the image of Jesus Christ and no longer conformed to this present world. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Philip. 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; 1 John 3:1-2 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 26 Col. 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Ephes. 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. Ephes. 4:1-6 therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Ephes. 4:17-24 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Col. 2:6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 1 John 2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Hebrews 10:36-39 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Man’s problems are the result of sin and any attempt to label man’s problems otherwise detract from the helping and healing process. Isaiah 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 27 Isaiah 1:4-6 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward. Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment. Romans 3:10-18 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Psalm 1:1-6 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Man not only does not understand his own heart, but is incapabable of knowing his own heart. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Matthew 15:14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 2 Tim. 2:25-26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. 28 Isaiah 42:6-7 I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered. The goal of Christian counseling is to aid in the process of Biblical conversion and sanctification. Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Acts 26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Ephes. 4:20-32 But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 1 Thes. 4:3-8 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. Hebrews 2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 1 Peter 1:14-17 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 29 1 Peter 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. 1 Cor. 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. Change and growth requires a renewing of the mind and a change in behavior with and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Ephes. 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Col. 3:8-9 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; Some people may need medical attention for diagnosable illnesses. Others may need additional educational, vocational, or financial training or aid. However, these additional helps do not alleviate the need for Biblical counseling, and may never contradict or supersede Biblical counseling. Luke 5:31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. Col. 4:14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. Genesis 43:11 And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds: 1 Tim. 5:23 Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities. 30 Section Three The Model of Man 31 A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW Biblical Worldview A worldview is one’s philosophical viewpoint about life and the rules that govern life. A Christian worldview is a commitment to accepting and following Biblical principles in all aspects of daily living. If one is committed to this goal, then God has promised a full life. Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Luke 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. James 1:22-25 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. Rev. 22:14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. 32 The Four Main Questions Where did I come from? God first created man and then told man to be fruitful and multiply. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:26-28 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Why am I here? Man was created to have fellowship with God, to be a reflection of God’s character, and to rule over the earth. Psalm 8:4-6 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? [5 ] For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: When Adam and Eve sinned, turning from God-centered to self centered, or from Theocratic to autocratic, they forfeited the rights and position that God had intended for them. However, because God’s plans are eternal, and because of His great love, He decreed that through His son atonement would be made and redemption would be accomplished. What is Right and Wrong Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV) For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Col. 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 33 Where am I going? There is an afterlife and all people will stand before God and give an account of himself. The one that has acknowledged Jesus Christ will have eternal life. John 3:16-18 (KJV) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 2 Cor. 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Rev. 20:12-13 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. The Seven Governing Principles for a Biblical Worldview The sovereignty Of God The divinity of Jesus Christ Restoration and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ The reality of sin and satan The Christian witness to the world The inerrancy and sufficiency of the scriptures The return of Jesus Christ 34 THE MODEL OF MAN Every counseling theory has what is called a model and a methodology. The model includes a description of man’s nature and an explanation of his behavior. The Biblical model of man is explained by examining by examining the account given in the book of Genesis and substantiated in the rest of the Bible. It is only by understanding the Genesis record and the rest of the scriptures that we can get an accurate understanding of human nature, man’s attitudes, values, beliefs, and behavior, and understand the correct methodology for counseling. The Biblical model of man is based upon the fact Creation, Separation, and Restoration. Creation: God created Adam and Eve in His own image. This means that God gave man moral character, mind and will, abilities, needs, and the freedom and opportunity to use all of these in a way pleasing to God. Man was made to desire fellowship both vertically and horizontally – with God and with others. Separation: If one does not believe, obey, or trust God’s word, he sins and is immediately separated from God. The process of sin is described fully in the book of Genesis: The Word of God is disputed, obedience and trust are violated, and sin is the resulting behavior. Satan’s words were aimed to cause a separation in the relationship that Adam and Eve had with God. Since we are told clearly what caused the separation and what the resulting consequences of that separation were, then we know what must be done to restore the relationship that was broken. Restoration: Because of God’s great love, he provided salvation for man. He provided both a way for man to be restored to a right relationship with Him and a remedy for what was lost in the fall. He said, “Ye must be born again. “ The Biblical counselor needs to understand these three areas and the dimensions of each area: Creation: Spiritual and physical nature of man Uniqueness of Man Relationship between free will and moral responsibility Separation: Doubt introduced Choice introduced Spiritual Relationship broken Restoration: Death of the Old Man Rise to walk in newness of life Spiritual life restored 35 THE CREATION AND THE FALL In the beginning God created, and he saw that everything working together was very good (Gen. 1:31). Let’s look at the nature of man in the Garden of Eden. Man was created with basic needs. This is supported scripturally by looking at what provisions were made for man in the Garden of Eden, and also by looking at how commanded us to treat each other. These are called the “one another” needs and will be discussed shortly. It is important to realize that all needs can be described as vertical and horizontal needs. Mans needs must be met by horizontally, by other people, and they must be met vertically, by a proper relationship with God. Let’s look at God’s provision for man in the Garden that can reflect the basic emotional needs that man was created with: Love Gen. 1:31; 2:25; 3:8; 2:18, 20, 21-24 Love refers to the sense of being accepted and being accepting. Man has a need both to love and be love. Adam had this perfect relationship with God in the Garden. Love has to do with the feeling of being united with others and sharing a sense of intimacy, commonwealth, and belonging. It is giving and receiving love. It is interesting to note that even though Adam had perfect communion with God, God himself said, (Gen. 2:18) “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.” And, instead of providing him a bar with ten drinking buddies…(Genesis 2:21-23) …the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. “ God made for Adam a woman, a wife, who was to be God’s perfect solution for man’s aloneness. 36 Significance Gen. 1:26, 31; Significance refers to the fact that man has both an internal and external value. His value comes from the fact that he was created by God, in the image of God, and has a place and purpose in God’s plan. In our personal and private relationships, we need to feel competent and capable, without condemnation, guilt or shame. Freedom Gen. 1:28; 2:15, 19-20 Freedom refers to the ability to make choices in one’s life. This corresponds to the free will that God gave to man. We are able to make decisions and have a voice in the guidance and direction of our lives. Man must feel that life is significantly under his own control. Discipline Gen. 1:28; 2:15, 19-20 Discipline refers to man’s need to feel secure about the choices he makes. Not only must man have the feeling that he is capable of making choices, but he must also feel that he makes right choices that move him to positive and successful results. Man must feel Emotional Awareness Gen. 1:26-27; 2:24; 3:20 Emotional Awareness refers to the sense of security one feels knowing how he will respond to given situations over time. He will understand the emotions that he feels and the process that generates those emotions, both positive and negative. Our personality is greatly shaped by our emotional responses – how we label those responses and how others label them. Need to know God Gen. 1:27; 2:7; 3:4-5, 8-24 Every person needs to know that there is a meaning, sense of purpose, and power that is far above and outside of him. There is recognition, although not always accompanied by understanding, that there are things that go beyond the five senses and the natural realm. Our predisposition to know God, seek God, and be restored to God leads man to continually seek an explanation for these things beyond himself. Man labels these things as magical, supernatural, or simply Divine. Man’s inherent concept of fairness and balance resides in this feeling that there is an ultimate right and wrong. As man tries to define and answer this needs composes a large part of his “spirituality”. 37 These provisions set forth from the beginning, are also found throughout the scriptures. Let’s look at some New Testament verses that reinforce the concept of these needs: Love Significance Liberty Discipline Emotional Sensitivity John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Galatians 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the Knowledge of God resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Man was created with six innate, God-given needs. When these needs are met in a balanced, positive way, man is viewed as psychologically and spiritually healthy. All of man’s behavior is the attempt to satisfy these God given, innate needs. The problem is that because we perceive ourselves and the world around us through “fallen” eyes, our choices are not always those choices that lead to healthy results. (This will be discussed later.) 38 The Fall of Man Bible Truth Man created in the image of God. Adam and Eve were perfect Verse Genesis 1:26-27 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Created in the image of God In a sinless, perfect world Blessed by God Had direct communication and communion with God Had perfect one flesh bond (husband and wife) Were to have dominion and rule over the earth God's provision also included His law Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Satan deceived Eve by mixing truth and lie. Genesis 3:1-5 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. The Lie – You shall not surely die. The truth – Your eyes shall be opened; ye shall be as gods. Note: God did not intend for man to be like God or to know both good and evil. This is the point that describes the beginning of man’s problems. Pride and rebellion were the cause of the first sin (1 John 2:15-17 ) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world… the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. Man's sin separated him from God and resulted in consequences Genesis 3:6-8 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened…. Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 39 Spiritual and physical death Focus became carnal and self directed Mental - Fear, worry, anxiety, deceptiveness Social – Blame shifting Environmental - Change in nature Look what God says! And look at the consequence God did not want Adam to live forever in a sinful state. Emotional separation from God Family Relationships Personal harmony: work not productive, outcast, no stability; problems bearing burdens without God. Consequences are perpetual Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Genesis 3:7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. Genesis 3:8-10 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. Genesis 3:12-13 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. Genesis 3:17-19 And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. Genesis 3:22-23 And the Lord God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. Genesis 4:5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. Genesis 4:8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. Genesis 4:9 And the Lord said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper? Genesis 4:12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth. Genesis 4:13 And Cain said unto the Lord, My punishment is greater than I can bear. Genesis 5:3 And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, after his image; Genesis 6:5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 40 Understanding the Beginning Man Made a Choice to Sin then – Man makes choices now Genesis 3:1-8 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. 1. The Process Satan came in an appealing form (v. 1) Satan questioned the Word of God (v. 1) Satan questioned the understanding of the Word of God Satan denied the word of God (v. 4) Satan offered the tempting Lie (v. 5) 2. Man Made a Choice Eve succumbed to lust of the eye, flesh, and pride Eve ate the fruit (v. 6) Adam was with Eve and said nothing (v. 6) Adam watched while Eve ate the fruit (v. 6) Adam ate the fruit (v. 6) (v.1) (v. 6) 3. The Result Their eyes were opened (v. 7) They knew they were naked (v. 7) They tried to cover themselves for they had lost God’s covering (v.7) Man experienced immediate spiritual death (Separation from God) (v. 8) Man began to die physically (Adam dies at the age of 930) (Gen. 5:5) 41 Genesis 3:7-13 [Shame] And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; [no covering] and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. [Separation] And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? 10] [Fear] And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. Guilt] And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? [Blame] And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 4. The Emotional Consequences of Separation from God Shame (v. 7) No covering (v. 7) Fear (v. 10) Guilt (v. 11) Blame (v. 12) Note: Sin affects all relationships. Sin separates us from God, from ourselves, and from others. Sin separates man from God and he tries to cover himself Sin separates man from himself and he falls victim to fear, guilt, and shame This fear takes many forms. Heb 2:14 Hebrews 2:14-15 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Sin separates us from others and Blame becomes the immediate reaction Adam blamed Eve Adam blamed God Eve blamed the serpent Neither acknowledged their sin – they gave the reason or the justification. Although Adam and Eve did not lie, neither did they acknowledge the problem…only the symptom. 42 UNDERSTANDING SIN Sin What is Sin What Sin Does Who Sins How God Dealt With Sin What Man Does The Consequences of Sin Not acting in faith (Rom. 14:23) Not doing good (James 4:17) The result of lust (James 1:15) Lawlessness (1 John 3:14) All unrighteousness (1 John 5:17) Brings death (Rom. 6:16, 23) Enslaves us (Rom. 6:17, 20) Deceives us (Heb. 3:13) Surrounds us (Heb. 12:1 Can be against ourselves (1 Cor. 6:18) Can be against our brothers (1 Cor. 8:12) All are under sin (Rom. 3:9; Gal. 3:22) Both Jew and Gentile (Rom. 2:12) All have sinned (Rom. 3:23) Where sin abounded, grace more abounded (Rom. 5:20) Jesus died for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3) Jesus was made sin for us (2 Cor. 5:21) Jesus purged our sins (Heb. 1:3) Jesus bore our sins (1 Pe. 2:24) The blood of Jesus cleanses us from sin (1 Jn. 1:7) Jesus loosed us from our sins (Rev. 1:5 Jesus took away the sins of the world (John 1:29) Repents and is Baptized (Acts 2:38) Obey and be servants of righteousness (Rom. 6:17,18) Confess our sins (1 John. 1:9) 43 Spirit Controlled or Sin Controlled Spirit Filled Mind forgiveness humility appreciation thankful gratitude impartial humility hope wisdom merciful faithful willingness confident Spirit-Filled Emotions love joy longsuffering gentle compassion glad patient kind peace Spirit-Filled Mouth truthfulness praise timeliness gentle answer soothing encouraging tactful comforting exhorting edifying Spirit-Filled Behavior kindness gentleness sincerity self-control obedience cooperation goodness righteousness courage servant endurance submissive considerate impartial Sins of the Mind unforgiveness evil thoughts greed senseless covetousness haughty heartless maliciousness pride lust arrogance selfish despiteful deceitful faithless ingratitude Sinful Emotions hatred rebellion jealousy envy temper rage anger bitterness unloving bad malice Sins of the Mouth lying complaining slandering disputing contention quarrelsome boasting cursing gossiping backbiting blasphemy yelling Sins of Behavior adultery brawling drunkenness favoritism brutality murder revelry homosexuality no control factious stealing fornication insolent violence disobedient 44 Symptoms vs. Root Causes As time progressed, the manifestations of the “original” sin became more and more apparent. Despite the number of sins,, and the various manifestations of sin, they all have the same root – Lust of the eye, Lust of the flesh, and pride of life. Many counselors respond to what the client describes as the problem. However, experience has taught “the problem is rarely the problem”. The symptoms that a client describes need to be traced to the actual root problem. Root Causes Pride of Life Lust of the Eyes Lust of the Flesh Root Problems Bitterness Covetousness Moral Impurity Surface Causes Inferiority Frustration Anger Envy Insecurity Ungratefulness Guilt Lust Pride Surface Problems Wrong Appearance Wrong Motives Wrong Language Wrath Hatred Heresies Variance Seditions Gossip Arguments Lying Stealing Destruction Adultery Covetousness Materialism Envying Addictions Adultery Addictions Drunkenness Emulations Homosexuality Idolatry Lasciviousness Murders Reveling Sexual Immorality Smoking Strife Uncleanness Witchcraft 45 The Separation Parents leave and there is no one to provide the care and nurture that God intended. Physical Separation Leaving now becomes an option in later life in all relationships: Abandonment, Divorce, Quitting Mental Separation Social Separation No one is available to answer questions, calm fears, or teach No one was there to teach social skills, how to relate to others, or provide a proper role model No one was there to meet the six emotional needs correctly. Emotional Separation As a result, people turn to wrong ways to meet their emotional needs. Spiritual Separation We do not know God and no one is there to lead us back to God. When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. Psalm 27:10 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deut. 31:6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5 46