The purpose of biblical counseling is to reflect God’s glory in the healing process and to apply the power of the Gospel through personal relationships.
1. The Glory of God
Genesis 1-2: Creation is a manifestation of God’s glory, and humanity's creation in God’s image (Imago Dei) points to the relational aspect of God’s glory. We are designed for relationship—both with God and one another—revealing that healthy relationships are part of glorifying God.
Psalm 19:1: "The heavens declare the glory of God." Biblical counseling aims to reflect the glory of God by restoring individuals to their intended relationship with God and one another, allowing them to glorify God through their lives.
2. The Fall
Genesis 3: Sin breaks our relationships—with God and with one another—leading to brokenness. This brokenness hinders our ability to reflect God’s glory, creating a profound need for restoration.
Ephesians 4:17-32: Paul describes the consequences of living apart from God, highlighting our need for Jesus to restore individuals to a right relationship with God and others.
3. The Gospel as the Foundation
John 3:16: The Gospel is central in counseling, as it reveals God’s love and the intention for restoration. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus gives forgiveness, offering hope for the brokenhearted.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21: Believers are new creations through Christ—emphasizing that change is possible through the Gospel. Jesus gives us grace and reconciliation.
4. Personal Relationship with Jesus
John 15:4-5: Abiding in Christ is essential for spiritual life. A personal relationship with Jesus allows us to draw strength and wisdom from Him, which is foundational in the counseling process.
Philippians 4:6-7: Bringing your anxieties to God in prayer is a practical way to rely on Jesus.
5. Rooted in Scripture. God-Centered.
2 Timothy 3:16-17: Scripture is God-breathed and equips believers. Counselors rely on biblical truth and a biblical worldview to guide discussions, ensuring that the counsel given aligns with Scripture.
Ephesians 3:20-21: The potential for God to do immeasurably more in counseling reflects His glory. The therapeutic process points to God’s power and goodness, leading to transformation that glorifies Him.
6. Community as a Reflection of God’s Glory
Hebrews 10:24-25: The call to encourage one another reveals the communal aspect of counseling, where relationships within the body of Christ enrich healing, growth, and glorify God.
John 13:34-35: Jesus commands believers to love one another, and this love is a testimony to the world of their relationship with Christ. Counseling facilitates loving relationships that reflect God’s glory.
7. Eschatological Hope and Restoration
Revelation 21:3-4: The promise of a future without tears or pain encompasses the ultimate healing and rest that believers can expect, providing hope in all circumstances.
Romans 8:18-21: The anticipation of future glory encourages clients to look beyond present struggles, knowing that God’s ultimate plan involves restoration.
A biblical theology of counseling rooted in the glory of God, the gospel, and a personal relationship with Jesus. Counseling becomes a means through which individuals experience transformation and restoration, testifying to God’s glory. The counselor’s role is to guide individuals back to a right relationship with God through the Gospel, facilitating personal renewal that reflects the love and strength found in Christ. Ultimately, counseling is not merely about alleviating pain but about leading individuals toward a deeper understanding of God’s glory and kingdom purpose for their lives.
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