Counselling
Objectives:
1. To have the Christian comprehend that the Bible is useful for counseling.
2. To offer practical suggestions for counseling.
A. Hebrews 4:12 / II Timothy 3:16-17 / Galatians 6:2
1 The word of God is relevant to our life situation today.
2. The scriptures help us to understand our own thoughts and attitudes.
3. The Bible can equip us to deal with life's problems.
4. We should strive to use God I s word to help others with their burdens.
B. Concepts
1. Understand that "the goal of Biblical counseling is to promote Christian maturity, to help people enter into a richer experience of worship and a more effective life of service. In broad terms, Christian maturity is developed by (1) dealing with any immediate problem circumstances in a manner consistent with Scripture... and (2) developing an inward character which conforms to character (attitudes, beliefs, purposes) of Christ."*
2. "Christian helping has four distinctives. It is done by a Christian. It is consistent with Christian assumptions. It has Christ at the center. It is consistent with God's revelations."**
C. A Model***
1. Understanding -- The first stage of helping is understanding the person and expressing that understanding to the person.
2. Rethinking the Problem -- Encourage a focused discussion of the general problem while you suggest ways to view the problem that the person has not tried.
3. Planning for Change -- Help the person make and carry out an action plan.
4. Evaluation and Support -- Help the person evaluate the effects of his/her action plan and make any necessary alterations.
5. Follow-up -- Help ensure relationship remains mutual rather than client-counselor.
Assignments:
1. Memory verse: Galatians 6:2
2. Strongly suggested reading!
a. Basic Principles of Biblical Counseling by Lawrence J.Crabb (Zondervan).
b. Effective Biblical Counseling by L. J. Crabb (Zondervan) .
c. When Someone Asks For Help by Everett C. Worthington, Jr. (IVP).
d. How to Help the Hurting by E. Worthington, Jr. (IVP)
References:
Lawrence Crabb, Effective Biblical Counseling, p. 29,30
Everett Worthington, Jr., When Someone Asks For Help, p. 27, 28.
This model is taken from Worthington, When Someone Asks For Help.